Natural Language Query Processing in Data Tables

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face inefficiency when manually compiling formulas to derive data from spreadsheets, especially with large datasets, requiring advanced knowledge of database operations.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for processing natural language queries in data tables, where a query term is extracted, a table summary is prepared, and a formula is generated to derive results, with the ability to adjust based on user feedback for improved accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If users manually compile formulas to derive data from spreadsheets, then calculation accuracy can be maintained, but processing efficiency deteriorates and operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing efficiencyVSAvoidformula compilation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by automatically generating formulas based on natural language queries. The query processing module parses user intent and autonomously constructs the appropriate spreadsheet formulas without requiring user intervention in the formula compilation process, thereby improving efficiency while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual formula compilation with an automated natural language processing system. The query processing module substitutes the manual mechanical action of writing formulas with an automated system that interprets natural language and generates formulas programmatically, reducing both time and complexity.

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

2Loss of time

If users manually compile formulas to derive data from spreadsheets, then control over calculation logic is maintained, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformula compilation timeVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The natural language query serves as an intermediary between user intent and formula execution. Instead of directly manipulating complex formula syntax, users communicate their needs through natural language, which the query processing module translates into executable formulas, significantly reducing time consumption while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system substitutes the time-consuming manual process of formula compilation with automated natural language processing. The query processing module rapidly transforms user queries into executable formulas, reducing compilation time from minutes or hours to seconds, while the generated formulas maintain the necessary control over calculation logic.

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

3Ease of operation

If the system automatically generates formulas from natural language queries, then operational simplicity is improved, but interpretation accuracy may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequery interface simplicityVSAvoidquery interpretation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the generated formulas are validated against the original natural language query intent. The query processing module continuously refines its interpretation by comparing the generated formula with expected outcomes and user interactions, thereby improving interpretation accuracy while maintaining operational simplicity through the natural language interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20230385321A1Systems and methods for processing a natural language query in data tables
Publication Date: 2023.11.30 GOOGLE LLC
  • US20230385321A1 patent drawing
  • US20230385321A1 patent drawing
  • US20230385321A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are disclosed herein for processing a natural language query on data tables. According to some embodiments, a query term is obtained from a natural language query. A table summary is prepared based on the query term and a formula of the natural language query is generated based on the table summary. A result is generated based on the formula. Responsive to receiving negative feedback to the result, one or more of the table summary or the formula is disassociated from the query term.