Search Drop Down Menu Interface for Configurable Data Queries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern data processing systems face challenges in file management due to overly complex search programs that require complex search strings and complicated menus, making it difficult for users to quickly configure and perform searches.
Innovation Solution
A search pull down menu method and apparatus that includes a search input region and a user interface object, which, when selected, displays a menu of selectable search options to configure the search, allowing users to perform searches using a simple and user-friendly interface with hierarchical drop down menus and text entry regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional search programs are used with multiple configuration options, then search functionality is comprehensive, but user interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The search interface is segmented into two distinct modes: a simple text entry region for basic searches, and a hierarchical pull-down menu for advanced searches. This segmentation allows users to choose the appropriate complexity level, providing comprehensive search functionality while avoiding unnecessary interface complexity for simple tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The search interface dynamically adapts its complexity based on user needs. The pull-down menu contains nested levels of search parameters that can be expanded or collapsed, allowing the interface to present only the necessary options for each specific search task, thereby reducing perceived complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Measurement precision
If complex search strings are required, then search precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hierarchical pull-down menu acts as an intermediary between the user and the complex search parameters. Instead of requiring users to construct complex search strings directly, the menu provides a structured interface with predefined categories and options that simplify parameter selection while maintaining search precision through systematic organization of search criteria.
Solution Approach 2:
The search parameters are pre-organized into hierarchical categories within the pull-down menu, with common search criteria presented first. This preliminary organization allows users to quickly access frequently used search options without navigating through complex structures, improving ease of operation while maintaining comprehensive search capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple search parameters are presented, then search capability is enhanced, but time to configure search increases
Solution Approach 1:
Search parameters are segmented into hierarchical groups within the pull-down menu, allowing users to focus on one category at a time rather than being overwhelmed by all parameters simultaneously. This segmentation enables users to configure searches more efficiently by addressing only the relevant parameters for their specific needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface allows users to perform partial searches by selecting only the most relevant parameters from the hierarchical menu, rather than requiring configuration of all possible search parameters. Users can achieve effective search results with a subset of parameters, reducing configuration time while maintaining search capability.
Data Source
AI summary
User interface for searching for data are described. In one embodiment, a method, which involves a user interface for searching, includes displaying on a display device a search input region and displaying, immediately adjacent to the search input region, a user interface object which, if selected, cause the display of a menu, disposed adjacent to the user interface object, of selectable search options to configure how to perform the search. The search input region can be configured to receive an input for a search of data on a data processing system coupled to the display device.