Facet Expansion System for Search Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing search engines lack a convenient method to extend facet interaction dynamics to include facets not present in initial search results, limiting user ability to filter and manipulate search data efficiently.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a facet expansion system that suggests additional facets based on context, including previous selections, using entity grouping and statistical analysis to identify peer entities, rank attributes, and present them as suggestions in the user interface, allowing users to select and add facets without performing additional searches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If search engines provide only facets present in initial search results, then the system maintains simplicity and fast response, but the user ability to filter and manipulate search data is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the data store structure and pre-identifies potential facets that could be applied to search results. This includes analyzing data relationships, entity types, and attribute hierarchies before the user even performs a search, so that relevant facets are ready to be suggested immediately when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary facet suggestion component that sits between the search engine core and the user interface. This intermediary layer analyzes search results, determines relevant facets based on data patterns and user context, and presents them to users without requiring additional searches. It mediates between the simple search engine core and the enhanced user experience.
2Ease of operation
If users can select facets interactively, then user control over search results improves, but the time required to complete searches increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-computes facet options and their potential impact on search results. When a user performs a search, the system has already prepared relevant facets and can immediately present them for selection, rather than requiring users to perform additional searches to discover available facets or wait for real-time computation during interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback to users when they select facets, showing how each selection filters results in real-time. This feedback mechanism helps users make informed decisions quickly and understand the impact of their selections without needing to perform separate test searches, reducing overall search completion time.
Data Source
AI summary
System and techniques for facet expansion are described herein. A user interface element may be presented on facet selection portion of a search result display including search results. Here, the user interface element is arranged to accept user input of a facet. Partial user input for a facet may be received. A peer entity to an entity corresponding to the facet may be obtained. A peer facet may be presented in a suggestion element in the facet selection portion in response to receiving the partial user input.