Mapping Application Search Result Layer Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mapping technologies do not effectively allow users to overlay and manage multiple layers of search results on a geographic map, limiting the ability to compare and visualize search results across different geographical contexts.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for displaying multiple layers of search results on a geographic map, where each layer can be toggled on or off, and focused layers interact differently with other layers, allowing users to emphasize search results based on geographical context, enabling comparison of results across various contexts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple search queries are processed and displayed simultaneously on a map, then the quantity of information presented increases, but the complexity of managing and visualizing the data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides search results into separate visual layers, each corresponding to a specific search query. Each layer can be independently managed, displayed, or hidden through interface elements. This segmentation allows multiple search queries to be processed simultaneously while maintaining organized, manageable groups of results that can be controlled individually.
2Loss of information
If multiple layers of visual indicators are overlaid on the map, then the completeness of information display improves, but the clarity of individual search results deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides interface elements that allow users to extract or remove specific layers from the display. When visual clutter becomes excessive, users can selectively remove individual layers to improve clarity while maintaining the option to view complete information by adding layers back. This extraction capability balances information completeness with visual clarity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic layer management where users can add or remove layers based on current needs. The system adapts to user preferences by allowing real-time modification of which search result layers are visible, enabling dynamic adjustment between viewing complete information and maintaining clarity.
3Loss of information
If focus is provided to specific layers, then the relevance of displayed information improves, but the number of interface elements required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functional interface elements that can perform multiple operations. Each layer's interface element serves as a toggle that can add the layer, remove the layer, or indicate the layer's current state. This universal design reduces the total number of interface elements needed while maintaining the ability to provide focus and control over each search result layer.
Data Source
AI summary
Displaying geographic search results incudes receiving, from a server system and in response to a query related to the geographic area, a plurality of search results; providing a digital map of the geographic area via a user interface; displaying the plurality of search results as visual indicators at respective geographic locations on the digital map; and providing a user interface element which, when selected by a user, causes removal from the digital map a portion of the plurality of search results that is not relevant to a certain geographic context.