Visual Search Interface with Dynamic Image Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users, especially those inexperienced with searching, face difficulties in setting appropriate search conditions, leading to challenges in finding desired information due to the complexity of existing search engines that often require multiple search words or specific keyword inputs.
Innovation Solution
A user interface device and method that displays images corresponding to search targets and allows users to change the relative positional relationship between these images to dynamically adjust search conditions, generating queries based on these interactions, thereby facilitating the search process without requiring explicit keyword input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional search engines require multiple search words and specific keyword inputs, then search precision can be improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for inexperienced users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image copies/representatives to stand in for complex search concepts. Instead of requiring users to input multiple keywords, the system displays image representatives that users can select and manipulate visually. The images serve as simplified copies of the underlying search targets, making the interface accessible to users without search expertise while maintaining precise search capabilities through the structured image relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces images as intermediary elements between the user and the search system. These images act as mediators that translate user intentions into structured search queries. The detection unit monitors image interactions, and the generation unit converts these visual interactions into appropriate search conditions, bridging the gap between simple user actions and complex search requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing search engines implement AND search and OR search, then search capability is improved, but device complexity increases making it difficult for users to set appropriate conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic search condition generation based on real-time image interactions. The system automatically adjusts search conditions as users manipulate images, rather than requiring users to pre-configure complex search parameters. The detection unit continuously monitors positional changes, and the generation unit dynamically constructs appropriate queries, enabling versatile search capabilities through simple, adaptive interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating search conditions based on detected image interactions. Instead of requiring users to understand and configure search parameters, the system observes user actions on images and autonomously formulates appropriate search queries. This eliminates the need for users to comprehend complex search logic while maintaining sophisticated search functionality.
3Measurement precision
If users are required to input multiple search words, then search precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to the difficulty in conceiving and inputting appropriate search words
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares image representatives in advance that correspond to potential search targets. Instead of requiring users to brainstorm and input search words during the search process, the system has pre-organized visual representations ready for selection. Users simply interact with these pre-prepared images, dramatically reducing the time needed to formulate search conditions while maintaining precision through the structured image relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of typing and inputting multiple search words with visual interaction through image manipulation. Users drag, drop, or position images rather than typing keywords, substituting a time-consuming text-based process with faster visual operations. The system translates these visual actions into precise search conditions, achieving both speed and accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
Setting of a search condition is facilitated. A communication terminal initially displays a plurality of search panels including a search panel P1, which is an image corresponding to a search target in a certain category. Thereafter, upon a user selecting one of the search panel (here, P1), the communication terminal displays search panels P11 to P16, which are images corresponding to search targets in sub-categories of the category of the search panel P1. The user can change the search condition by moving one of the search panels P11 to P16.