Third-Party Search Indexing via Isolated Plugins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional operating systems on multifunctional devices do not extend their search capabilities to third-party applications, limiting users' ability to organize and manage content from these applications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow for the extension of search capabilities to third-party applications by indexing and searching their content without invoking the applications, using a search daemon and application indexer in a separate process, and providing search plugins specific to each application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional operating systems are used, then system stability is maintained, but search capabilities cannot be extended to third-party applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a search mediator component that acts as an intermediary between the operating system's search functionality and third-party applications. This mediator receives search queries from the OS, forwards them to appropriate third-party applications, and aggregates results without requiring modifications to the core OS architecture. The mediator enables search capability extension while maintaining system stability by decoupling the search function from application-specific implementations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If third-party applications are integrated into the search system, then search coverage is improved, but system security and isolation are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the search system into distinct components: the OS-level search mediator, application-specific search plugins, and isolated execution environments. Each third-party application runs in its own isolated process space with controlled access to the search mediator through defined APIs. This segmentation allows broad search coverage across multiple applications while maintaining security boundaries and preventing unauthorized access to system resources.
3Measurement precision
If search is performed by invoking applications, then accurate results are obtained, but user time and energy are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary indexing of third-party application content into the OS search database. When a third-party application is installed, its searchable content is pre-processed and indexed by the search mediator, creating a ready-to-query representation. This preliminary action eliminates the need to invoke applications during search operations, as the search mediator can directly query the pre-indexed data and return results immediately, maintaining accuracy while eliminating launch delays.
Data Source
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AI summary
At least certain embodiments of the present disclosure include a method to extend search capabilities to third party applications installed on a device. In one embodiment, records associated with a third party application are indexed in a process isolated from other third party applications installed on the device using a search plugin specific to the third party application. Furthermore, the indexed records can be searched in response to a user search query without invoking the third party application.