Interactive Map-Based Geographic Query Constraint System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current search engines have limitations in specifying geographic boundaries for queries, as they typically rely on recognized names or points, failing to accurately represent regions like the area between the Mississippi and Colorado Rivers, and do not allow users to easily specify bounded regions for geographic constraints.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to interactively specify geographic constraints by drawing boundaries on a map, using tools like circles or ellipses, to limit search results to locations within the defined area, with documents indexed by geographic coordinates for accurate filtering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users specify geographic boundaries using recognized place names, then the query can be processed with existing data, but the geographic specification is inadequate and cannot represent arbitrary regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the geographic boundary definition into discrete selectable regions (e.g., states, counties, cities) that can be individually chosen or combined. This allows users to construct arbitrary geographic regions by selecting and combining basic geographic units, rather than being limited to pre-defined place names.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a visual map interface dimension where users can see and select geographic regions graphically. This transforms the one-dimensional text-based place name input into a two-dimensional visual selection process, enabling precise specification of arbitrary geographic areas through map interaction.
2Ease of operation
If the system provides fixed geographic options, then the implementation is simple, but the user cannot easily specify bounded regions for geographic constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal map interface that can handle multiple types of geographic queries and constraints through a single unified mechanism. The same map-based selection system works for various query types (e.g., finding businesses, weather, news) and different geographic scales (from local to national), providing both ease of use and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic geographic region selection where the available options and boundary definitions change based on user interaction. As users zoom, pan, or select different map views, the system dynamically adjusts the selectable geographic units and constraints to match the current view scale and context.
Data Source
AI summary
A search engine may allow a user to add and modify geographic constraints interactively through the use of a map. In one example, the user enters a search query, and the search engine determines whether the query is amenable to a geographic constraint. If the query is amenable to a geographic constraint, then the search engine may provide an interactive map through which the user may specify a geographic boundary. The search engine may then uses the geographic boundary as a constraint on the search, and may return documents that relate to the geographic area indicated by the boundary. The user may zoom in or out on the region defined by the boundary, or may move the boundary, thereby interactively focusing, de-focusing, and modifying the search based on geography.