Editable Search Interface for Surfacing Alternative Terms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in finding alternative search results or product variations on network pages, as they are unaware of available keywords or variations, leading to a trial-and-error approach in searching for relevant alternatives.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a user interface that surfaces alternative search terms or keywords by allowing users to select terms in the title element of a network page, which triggers a script to display a list of alternatives, enabling users to view related search results or product variations from other sellers or platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If users manually enter varied search queries to find alternative results, then they can discover different content versions, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires trial-and-error
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-generates and stores alternative search terms and related content metadata before users need them. When a user views a search result or product listing, the alternative terms are already prepared and can be instantly presented through the user interface element, eliminating the need for users to manually experiment with different search queries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system (the server and user interface element) that acts as a mediator between the user and the search system. Instead of users directly experimenting with search queries, the intermediary automatically analyzes the current context, generates relevant alternative terms, and presents them to the user, thus resolving the contradiction by removing the trial-and-error process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users manually explore product variations by submitting multiple searches, then they can find alternatives from different sellers, but the complexity of the search process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex search process into simple, discrete actions. Instead of requiring users to manage multiple search queries and filter results manually, the system breaks down the functionality into: (1) displaying the current product information, (2) presenting alternative terms in a structured list, and (3) allowing single-click selection. This segmentation reduces the perceived complexity while maintaining access to diverse product variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a product information display, an alternative search term generator, and a navigation tool all in one component. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate tools or complex procedures, allowing users to access product variations from different sellers through a single integrated interface.
3Loss of information
If the system provides comprehensive alternative search terms, then users can find more relevant results, but the interface becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making different parts of the interface have different levels of detail and interactivity. The main product information is displayed prominently and statically, while the alternative search terms are presented in a structured, expandable format that users can explore at their own pace. This allows comprehensive information to be available without overwhelming the user, as the detailed alternative terms are organized in a way that reveals complexity only when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are various embodiments for editable search. A computing device displays a term on a network page. The computing device then displays a search result on the network page, wherein the search result is related to the term. Later, the computing device displays an alternative term in response to a selection of the term. The computing device then sends a search query to a remote application executing on a remote computing device in response to a selection of the alternative term, wherein the search query includes the alternative term. The computing device subsequently updates the search result on the network page with a new search result related to the alternative term.