Search Query Broadening via Intermediary Synonyms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing search engines face challenges in providing high-quality search results due to subjective relevance, limited user vocabulary, and misunderstanding of search engine techniques, leading to inadequate search query scope and quality.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for search query broadening that parses user queries, identifies synonyms, alternate spellings, and related terms, and presents broadened search characteristics to expand the search scope, allowing for flexible display formats and improved search result quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If search engines use exact query term matching, then search precision is improved, but search recall deteriorates due to limited user vocabulary and query scope
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces query broadening terms as intermediary elements between the user's original query and the search index. These broadening terms act as mediators that expand the search scope by incorporating synonyms, related concepts, and alternative formulations, thereby improving recall without sacrificing precision through structured presentation options
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes search parameters by adjusting the scope of query terms through broadening. It modifies the search space by incorporating additional terms with varying degrees of relevance, allowing the search system to adapt between precise matching and broader exploration based on user needs
2Loss of time
If search engines present only top ranked results, then response time is improved, but information completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the search results presentation into multiple tiers: immediate top results for quick access and broadened query results for comprehensive exploration. This segmentation allows users to quickly obtain key information while having the option to access more complete information when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-computing and storing broadening terms and related information in advance. When a query is submitted, the broadened results are readily available through structured presentation options, eliminating the need for time-consuming additional processing while maintaining information completeness
3Measurement precision
If search engines provide detailed query analysis, then search quality is improved, but user interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic presentation where the user interface adapts based on user interaction. The broadening terms and related information are presented in a flexible, adjustable format that can be expanded or collapsed, allowing the interface complexity to dynamically match user needs rather than being statically high
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service by automatically analyzing the query and generating broadening terms without requiring user input. The interface presents options that users can selectively explore, allowing sophisticated query analysis to occur automatically while keeping the user interface simple and user-controlled
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing a user interface with search query broadening is described. A query defining a search executable on potentially retrievable information is accepted. The query is parsed. A broadened query is provided. At least one of the broadened query and results of a search executed on the broadened query is presented.