Map Search Interface with Dynamic Location Indicators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems for processing user search requests on electronic devices often present search results in a linear list format, which can be unappealing and fail to effectively convey the geographic distribution and dimension of search results on a map.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that dynamically updates a map display with visual indicators for matching location entities, allowing users to interactively search and select locations by processing user input and comparing it to metadata associated with each location entity, thereby providing a more visually engaging and informative representation of search results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If search results are displayed in a linear list format, then the system is simple to implement, but the visual appeal and geographic distribution information are lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of implementationVSAvoidgeographic distribution information
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the traditional one-dimensional linear list display into a two-dimensional map-based display. Search results are projected onto geographic coordinates, allowing users to visualize the spatial distribution of results across a map interface. This dimensional transformation preserves all result information while adding valuable geographic context that was lost in linear formats.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Device complexity

If search results are displayed in a linear list format, then the system structure is simple, but the user experience and visual engagement are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem structureVSAvoiduser experience
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enhances user experience by transitioning from a simple linear list to an interactive map interface. Users can visually explore results in their geographic context, zoom into regions of interest, and interact with map features. This dimensional enhancement significantly improves engagement while maintaining a manageable system architecture through the use of standard mapping libraries and overlay techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Loss of information

If a map display is used to show search results, then the geographic distribution is clearly conveyed, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeographic distribution visualizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the search results data structure with geographic map data. By overlaying search result indicators directly onto the map interface, the system conveys geographic distribution information effectively. This merging approach integrates multiple functions (search results display, geographic visualization, and user interaction) into a unified interface, managing complexity through consolidation rather than separate systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9983765B2Adaptive mapping of search results
Publication Date: 2018.05.29 APPLE INC
  • US9983765B2 patent drawing
  • US9983765B2 patent drawing
  • US9983765B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and method are provided for updating the presentation of a map based on search request information. The method may display, at a computing device, an interface that includes a search mode view of a map and a search box. Additionally, the method may receive input into the search box. The input may cause a display of a menu that includes a list of geographic locations according to the received input. Furthermore, the method may display visual indicators on the search mode view of the map according to the list of geographic locations. Moreover, the method may receive selection input corresponding to a selected geographic location from the list of geographic locations. Subsequently, the method may update the interface by replacing the search mode view with a confirmed mode view. The confirmed mode view may include a selection highlight indicator that corresponds to the selected geographic location.