Multi-Condition Application Search for Data Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing search function in mobile terminals, while allowing for some flexibility in setting conditions for finding data output destinations, is limited in that only one value can be set for each setting item, making it difficult to provide users with convenient search results for selecting appropriate applications for data processing.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system where multiple search conditions can be set for the same setting item, allowing the search unit to display a list of applications that satisfy different conditions, enabling users to select the most suitable application for data output destinations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the OS search function is used to find data output destination applications, then the search can be performed with standard specifications, but only one value can be set for each setting item which limits search convenience

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of implementing search functionVSAvoidconvenience of application selection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the search process into multiple stages: first searching with broad conditions to get candidate applications, then allowing users to refine or select from multiple search results. This segmentation enables the system to maintain simple OS-level search implementation while providing enhanced user convenience through multi-stage search with multiple values per setting item.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple search conditions are set for the same setting item, then more comprehensive application options can be displayed, but the search system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility of search conditionsVSAvoidcomplexity of search system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary application layer between the user and the OS search function. This intermediary manages multiple search conditions, coordinates searches with different values for the same setting item, and presents unified results to users. This mediator approach enables versatile multi-value searching without directly increasing OS system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9473610B2Information processing program, information processing apparatus and information processing method

Publication Date: 2016.10.18 BROTHER KOGYO KK

AI summary

The information processing apparatus includes: a search unit configured to search an application, which satisfies a condition; a data share unit configured to output location information; and a computer controlled to function as: a first request control unit that requests with a first condition; a first reception unit that receives first application information, satisfying the first condition; a second request control unit that requests with a second condition; a second reception unit that receives second application information satisfying the second condition; a display control unit that displays options to receive an operation of selecting any one of the application indicated by the first application information and the second application information; and an output unit that designates a selected application corresponding to the selected options and outputs location information.