Slider-Based Search Refinement Interface for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inefficiencies in refining search query results, requiring additional actions and being cumbersome on small mobile devices due to the need for multiple steps and limited display space in existing search engine systems.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to refine search query results using a slider mechanism, where categories are automatically retrieved and assigned based on input analysis, enabling intuitive and efficient filtering without the need for multiple actions, by partitioning the slider into segments corresponding to categories and sub-categories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users use traditional search refinement methods (drop-down combo boxes or Advanced Search pages), then search criteria can be limited, but the process becomes cumbersome and requires multiple actions especially on mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
The search refinement interface is segmented into multiple horizontal sliders, each representing a different category dimension. This allows users to independently adjust multiple search criteria simultaneously through simple swipe gestures, eliminating the need for multiple pages or nested dropdown menus while maintaining comprehensive filtering capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional vertical dropdown menus to horizontal slider interfaces, utilizing the horizontal dimension for category selection and the vertical dimension for result display. This dimensional reorganization allows multiple categories to be displayed and adjusted simultaneously in a compact space, particularly suited for mobile device screens
2Area of stationary object
If traditional search refinement interfaces are used, then search criteria can be adjusted, but display space is limited on small mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
By organizing category sliders horizontally and allowing vertical scrolling for results, the interface efficiently utilizes both horizontal and vertical screen real estate. Multiple category dimensions can be displayed simultaneously without requiring additional screen space, making the interface adaptable to various mobile device screen sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The slider interfaces are designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing users to swipe left or right to select categories and pull to expand or collapse slider panels. This dynamic behavior enables the interface to adapt to available screen space and user interaction needs, providing versatility across different device form factors
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for refining search query results are provided. A first user input is received. A plurality of search categories for the first input are determined. The plurality of search categories are then associated with different segments of a first slider. The first slider allows a user to generate a search query for the first user input among the plurality of associated categories. The search query returns a set of search query results. A plurality of sub categories may be determined for each search category. The plurality of sub-categories are associated with different segments of a second slider. Movement of a slider button of a second slider to a first segment of the second slider may be detected. The search query results may be filtered based on the first segment of the second slider. The filtering adjusts a level of detail of the set of search query results.