Image-Based Query System for Text Input Limitations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional search services face difficulties when users have trouble entering text due to disabilities or using devices with limited text input capabilities, hindering effective query input and search results.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilizes image recognition and position information to determine search keywords, allowing users to input queries through images, which are then matched with tags and documents from nearby terminals to provide relevant search queries.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If text-based query input is used in conventional search services, then search functionality can be provided, but users with text input difficulties or using terminals with limited text input capabilities cannot effectively input queries

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequery input easeVSAvoiduser accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical text input system (keyboard typing) with an optical recognition system (image capture and recognition). Users simply capture images of objects or scenes, and the system automatically recognizes and converts them into search queries, eliminating the need for manual text input while maintaining search functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an image recognition system as an intermediary between the user and the search engine. The user captures an image, the recognition system processes it to extract meaningful information and generate search queries, and then submits these queries to the search engine, thereby bridging the gap between limited user input capabilities and complex search requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If image-based query input is implemented, then users with text input limitations can access search services, but the system complexity increases due to image recognition and processing requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser accessibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The image recognition system operates autonomously to generate search queries from captured images. The system automatically performs image processing, object recognition, and query formulation without requiring manual intervention or complex configuration, thereby reducing the operational complexity burden on users while maintaining enhanced accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal image-based search system that can handle various types of images (objects, scenes, text, etc.) and convert them into appropriate search queries. This multi-functional approach consolidates multiple specialized functions into a single unified system, reducing overall system complexity while expanding user accessibility across different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If image recognition is used to determine search keywords, then query input becomes more intuitive, but the time required to process and analyze images increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequery input intuitivenessVSAvoidquery processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing and pre-analyzing images as they are captured, extracting potential search keywords and concepts in real-time. This preliminary processing allows the system to quickly generate search queries without requiring extensive post-processing time, thereby maintaining input intuitiveness while minimizing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by adjusting image processing parameters such as resolution, color depth, and processing algorithms based on the specific image content and search context. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between processing thoroughness and speed, making query input intuitive while reducing unnecessary processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9672282B2Method and system for providing query using an image
Publication Date: 2017.06.06 NAVER CORP
  • US9672282B2 patent drawing
  • US9672282B2 patent drawing
  • US9672282B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system for providing a query using an image is disclosed. A search keyword is determined using an image and position information of a terminal that are received from the terminal. Search queries associated with the determined search keyword are provided to the terminal. Lower search queries may be provided to the terminal if one of the provided search queries is selected.