Graphical User Interface for Visual Query Refinement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current document search methods using query expressions are prone to user errors and require expertise, leading to unreliable search results due to complexity and the need for precise syntax, which can result in users mistrusting their search outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface with sections indicating query status allows users to visually manipulate and refine search queries by moving terms between sections, generating revised queries and improving search accuracy through semantic term generation and visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If query expressions are used to search document corpus, then search capability is provided, but user error and complexity increase leading to unreliable results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system that translates natural language search terms into formal query expressions. This mediator handles the complexity of query construction behind the scenes, allowing users to interact with simple natural language while the system manages the complex Boolean operators, field specifications, and syntax requirements, thereby improving reliability without exposing users to complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service through automatic query optimization and validation. The search system automatically generates, refines, and validates query expressions based on user input, performing self-checks for syntax errors and logical consistency. This automated self-service eliminates user errors in query construction while maintaining search capability
2Measurement precision
If query expressions become more sophisticated to improve search accuracy, then search precision improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs query optimization, term expansion, and relevance weighting without user intervention. It self-adjusts the sophistication level of search queries based on the domain and context, providing high precision searches while keeping the user interface simple and easy to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes query parameters such as term weighting, field prioritization, and operator selection based on the specific search context and document corpus characteristics. This automatic parameter adjustment achieves high search precision while requiring minimal user input or expertise
3Adaptability or versatility
If users manually construct query expressions, then control over search is achieved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing search terms, pre-generating relevant query expressions, and pre-validating syntax before submission. This preliminary processing maintains user control over the search intent while dramatically reducing the time required for query construction and validation
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback on query validity, relevance, and expected results, allowing users to adjust their search intent quickly. This feedback loop enables users to maintain control over search outcomes while minimizing the time invested in query construction through iterative refinement
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for searching a document corpus and generating search queries are disclosed. A method includes providing for display a graphical user interface having two or more sections, and providing for generation of an initial search query based on locations of query terms entered into the graphical user interface. Sections of the graphical user interface indicate a query status. A revised search query based on a location of the query terms within the graphical user interface is generated following the manipulation of one or more of the query terms. Movement of a selected query term from a first section to a second section of the graphical user interface changes the query status of the selected query term from a first query status to a second query status. A search of the database is performed using the revised search query to return an updated set of electronic documents for display.