Research tool access based on research session detection
Abstract
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Term
2.8 yearsleft in the term
Expires 27 July 2029.
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12 claims: 4 independent, 8 dependent
- 11又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへのアクセスを自動的に提供する方法であって、 検索エンジンのユーザにより提出された一連のクエリに関する情報を プロセッサによって 取得するステップと、 前記取得した情報に基づいて、前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを 前記プロセッサによって 判定するステップと、 前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているという判定に応答して、前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザに前記1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへのアクセスを 前記プロセッサによって 提供するステップ であって、前記アクセスは、前記ユーザが前記リサーチセッションを行っているという判定に関連する信頼性レベルに基づいて選択された前記1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへアクセスするための複数の手段の内の1つによって提供されるものであるステップ と、を含むことを特徴とする方法。
- 2検索エンジンのユーザにより提出された一連のクエリに関する情報を取得するステップが、 前記一連のクエリ内の個々のクエリの1又はそれ以上の質問語と、 前記一連のクエリ間で共有される1又はそれ以上の基本概念と、 前記一連のクエリを受け取ったことに応答して、前記検索エンジンによって識別される1又はそれ以上の文書に関する情報と、 前記一連のクエリ内のクエリの総数と、 前記一連のクエリ内の1又はそれ以上のクエリを受け取ったことに応答して前記検索エンジンによって識別された文書のうちの、前記ユーザによりアクセスされた数と、のうちの1又はそれ以上を取得するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 3前記一連のクエリを受け取ったことに応答して前記検索エンジンによって識別される前記1又はそれ以上の文書の各々に関する前記情報が、 前記文書のタイトルと、 前記文書に関連するURLと、 前記文書のテキストと、 前記文書の要約と、 前記文書に関連する1又はそれ以上のタグと、 前記文書に関連するメタデータと、のうちの1又はそれ以上を含む、ことを特徴とする請求項2に記載の方法。
- 4前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを判定するステップが、前記一連のクエリが提出された期間中の情報検索セッションの長さを分析するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 5前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを判定するステップが、前記一連のクエリ内の前記クエリの1又はそれ以上に応答して識別された文書のうちの、前記ユーザによってアクセスされた数を分析するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 6前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを判定するステップが、前記一連のクエリ内の2又はそれ以上のクエリ間の類似性を測定するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 7前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを判定するステップが、前記クエリを受け取ったことに応答して前記検索エンジンによって識別された2又はそれ以上の文書間の類似性を測定するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 8前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを判定するステップが、前記ユーザが前記特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを以前に行ったかどうかを判定するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 9前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザに前記1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへのアクセスを提供するステップが、前記検索エンジンによって前記ユーザに提供される検索結果ページ内に1又はそれ以上のユーザインターフェイス要素を挿入するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 10前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザに前記1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへのアクセスを提供するステップが、前記検索エンジンによって前記ユーザに提供される検索結果ページ上に1又はそれ以上のウィンドウをオーバーレイ表示するステップを含む、ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の方法。
- 11ユーザにより提出された一連のクエリを受け取って、該一連のクエリ内の個々のクエリに対応する1又はそれ以上の文書を識別するように構成された検索エンジンと、 前記検索エンジンに接続され、前記一連のクエリに関する情報を取得し、該取得した情報に基づいて、前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを判定し、 前記ユーザが前記リサーチセッションを行っているという判定に関連する信頼性レベルに基づいて選択された前記1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへアクセスするための複数の手段の内の1つによって、 前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザに1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへのアクセスを提供するように構成されたリサーチセッションマネージャと、を備えることを特徴とするシステム。
- 12プロセッサが1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへのアクセスを自動的に提供できるようにするためのコンピュータプログラムロジックを記録したコンピュータ可読 記録 媒 体で あって、前記コンピュータプログラムロジックが、 前記プロセッサが、検索エンジンのユーザにより提出された一連のクエリに関する情報を取得できるようにするための第1の手段と、 前記プロセッサが、前記取得した情報に基づいて、前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザが特定のトピックに関するリサーチセッションを行っているかどうかを判定できるようにするための第2の手段と、 前記ユーザが前記リサーチセッションを行っているという判定に関連する信頼性レベルに基づいて選択された前記1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへアクセスするための複数の手段の内の1つによって 、前記プロセッサが、前記検索エンジンの前記ユーザに前記1又はそれ以上のリサーチツールへのアクセスを提供できるようにするための第3の手段と、を含むことを特徴とする コンピュータ可読記録媒体 。
Independent claims12
66 paragraphs, as filed
The present invention relates to a research tool for collecting and systematizing content accessed via an information retrieval system, such as content generally accessed via the World Wide Web. More specifically, the present invention relates to techniques for automatically providing access to such research tools.
Increasing content available on the World Wide Web and innovations in Internet search technology have changed the way people access information. Users can now search the web to perform a wide variety of research-based tasks, such as planning a trip, buying a car, or conducting academic research. In general, finding the information you are looking for on the web has become easier, but collecting and systematizing web research and returning to it remains difficult. This is partly when a web-based research session contains many queries, involves a large collection of content across multiple sessions, and the focus changes over time as new research topics emerge. Due to the fact that there is.
<p> Current methods for collecting and organizing web content include storing bookmarks or tabs, documenting web content, or storing pages locally. Various tools have also been developed that allow users to selectively store and organize web content in notebook format. Such tools are typically designed to be run with or embedded in a web browser. While each of these methods and tools is convenient, users are willing to recognize that a research session on a particular topic will be initiated, and then based on this recognition, collect and systematize web content. It is necessary to take positive action to initiate the method or tool chosen to do so.</p>
<p> This specification automatically detects when a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic, and then responds to the detection that a research session is being conducted by 1 or 1 to the user. Describe systems and methods that offer access to further research-related tools. This research-related tool may include one or more tools used to collect, systematize, and share content on a particular topic. By automatically providing access to (single or multiple) research-related tools in response to the detection of a research session, the experience of the user conducting the research session can be advantageously improved.</p><p> In particular, this specification describes how to automatically provide access to one or more research tools. This method retrieves information about a series of queries submitted by search engine users. Based on the information obtained, it is determined whether a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic. Search engine users are provided with access to one or more research tools in response to the determination that a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic.</p><p> The system is also described herein. The system includes a search engine and a research session manager connected to this search engine. The search engine receives a series of queries submitted by the user and is configured to identify one or more documents corresponding to individual queries within this series of queries. The research session manager obtains information about a series of queries, and based on this information, determines whether a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic, and based on this determination, the search engine. It is configured to provide one or more users with access to one or more research tools.</p><p> This specification also describes computer program products. Computer program products include computer-readable media that record computer program logic to allow a processor to automatically provide access to one or more research tools. Computer program logic includes a first means, a second means, and a third means. The first means is to allow the processor to obtain information about a series of queries submitted by search engine users. The second means is to allow the processor to determine if a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic based on the information obtained. A third option is to allow the processor to provide search engine users with access to one or more research tools in response to the determination that a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic. It is for doing.</p><p> Hereinafter, further features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structures and operations of various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. These embodiments are presented herein for purposes of illustration only. Additional embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings contained herein.</p><p> The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of the present specification, exemplify the present invention and explain the principles of the present invention together with the description, and those skilled in the art implement and use the present invention. It will be even more helpful to be able to do it.</p>
<figref num="1">It is a block diagram of the information retrieval system which can carry out embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="2">It is a figure which shows the example of a query which a user can submit to a search engine.</figref><figref num="3">FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method of automatically providing access to one or more research tools according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="4">FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a system for detecting when a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="5">FIG. 5 is a flow chart of an alternative method for automatically providing access to one or more research tools according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="6">FIG. 5 is a flow chart of another alternative method for automatically providing access to one or more research tools according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="7">It is a figure which shows the search result page which includes the means for accessing the research tool by embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="8">It is a figure which shows the search result page which includes the means for accessing the research tool and the research session status section by embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="9">It is a figure which shows the search result page which includes the means for accessing the research tool and the research tool activation icon by embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="10">FIG. 5 illustrates a search results page that includes means for accessing research tools implemented as on-page drop-down windows or panels according to embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="11">FIG. 5 illustrates another search result page that includes means for accessing research tools implemented as an on-page drop-down window or panel according to an embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="12">FIG. 5 illustrates yet another search result page that includes means for accessing research tools implemented as on-page drop-down windows or panels according to embodiments of the present invention.</figref><figref num="13A">It is a figure which shows the search result page by embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="13B">FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a research tool preview element overlaid on a search result page in response to detection of a research session according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="14">FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method for selectively providing a user with a first or second means for accessing a research tool according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="15">It is a block diagram of the exemplary computer system which can carry out embodiment of this invention.</figref>
Reference to the detailed description below, along with the accompanying drawings showing the corresponding elements of the same reference character throughout, will reveal the features and advantages of the present invention. In drawings, the same reference numbers generally indicate the same, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements. The drawing in which the element first appears is indicated by the leftmost (single) number of the corresponding reference number.
A. Introduction The present specification discloses one or more embodiments incorporating the features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments merely exemplify the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The present invention is defined by the appended claims.
References to "one embodiment," "embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," etc. herein indicate that the embodiments described may include specific features, structures, or properties. , Not all embodiments may include this particular feature, structure, or property. Moreover, such terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or property is described in the context of an embodiment, such feature, structure, or property, whether explicitly described or not, is described in the context of another embodiment. It is considered that the realization is within the recognition of those skilled in the art.
The system and method according to an embodiment of the present invention automatically detects when a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic, and then responds to the detection that a research session is being conducted. Give users access to one or more research-related tools. Research-related tools (s) may include one or more tools used to collect, systematize, and share content on a particular topic. By automatically providing access to (single or multiple) research-related tools in response to the detection of a research session, the experience of the user conducting the research session can be advantageously improved.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an information retrieval system 100 capable of implementing an embodiment of the present invention. In the present specification, the system 100 is shown for illustrative purposes only, and embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in different environments. As shown in FIG. 1, system 100 includes search engine 106. One or more computers 104, such as the first computer 104a, the second computer 104b, and the third computer 104c, are connected to the communication network 105. The network 105 may be any type of communication network, such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or a combination of communication networks. In embodiments, the network 105 can include the Internet and / or an intranet. Computer 104 can retrieve documents from entities via network 105. In an embodiment in which the network 105 includes the Internet, a set of documents including the document 103, which is part of the World Wide Web 102, can be utilized for searching through the network 105 by the computer 104. Documents can be identified / searched on the Internet by unified resource identifiers (URLs) such as http://www.yahoo.com. And / or by other mechanisms. The computer 104 can access the document 103 via the network 105 by supplying the URL corresponding to the document 103 to the document server (not shown in FIG. 1).
As shown in FIG. 1, the search engine 106 is coupled to the network 105. Search engine 106 accesses a storage index 114 that indexes documents such as documents on the World Wide Web 102. A user of computer 104a who wants to search for one or more documents on a particular topic but does not know the identifier / location of such documents may submit query 112 to search engine 106 over network 105. it can. Search engine 106 receives query 112 and analyzes index 114 to find documents about query 112. For example, search engine 106 can identify a set of documents containing the terms of query 112, indexed by index 114. A document set can include any number of documents, including tens, hundreds, thousands, millions, or even billions of documents. The search engine 106 can use rankings or related functions to rank the documents in the searched document set in order of relevance to the user. In an attempt to avoid the user's need to parse the entire document set, the most relevant document in the document set can be displayed at the top of the list of documents to return. A list of documents to be returned can be provided in the context of documents called "search results pages".
The search engine 106 can be implemented with hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. For example, search engine 106 may include software / firmware that runs within one or more processors of one or more computer systems, such as one or more servers. Examples of search engines 106 that can be accessed over network 105 are, but are not limited to, Yahoo! Search (http://www.yahoo.com), Ask.com (http://www.yahoo.com). Included: //www.ask.com) and Google (http://www.google.com).
FIG. 2 shows an exemplary query 112 that one user of the computers 104a-104c of FIG. 1 can submit to search engine 106. As shown in FIG. 2, query 112 includes one or more terms 202, such as first term 202a, second term 202b, and third term 202c. There can be any number of terms 202 in the query. As shown in FIG. 2, the terms 202a, 202b, and 202c in Query 112 are "1989," "red," and "corvette," respectively. Search engine 106 applies these terms 202a-202c to index 114 to provide document locators, such as the URLs of one or more indexed documents that match "1989," "red," and "corvette." You can search and order the list of documents according to ranking.
As also shown in FIG. 1, search engine 106 can generate query log 108. Query log 108 is a record of searches performed using search engine 106. Query log 108 is a list of documents resulting from the query, along with question terms (such as term 202 in query 112), documents in the list selected / clicked ("clicked") by the user reviewing the list. List / view of documents, ranking of documents clicked, time stamps indicating when the query was received by search engine 106, IP (Internet Protocol) that identifies the unique device (computer, mobile phone, etc.) that submitted the question. ) Addresses, identifiers (such as user identifiers in web browser cookies) associated with the user submitting the question, and / or additional information / attributes per query, such as additional information / attributes.
As further shown in FIG. 1, system 100 also includes research session manager 116 connected to search engine 106 and query log 108. Research Session Manager 116 goes to one or more research tools that allow you to easily collect documents (and the content they contain) searched using search engine 106 and organize them into a single research document. Is configured to automatically provide access to users of computers 104a-104c. In the embodiment, access to (s) research tools is provided to the user via a search result page generated by search engine 106.
In an embodiment, the Research Session Manager 116 is to provide access to (s) research tools in response to determining that a user is using a search engine 106 to conduct a research session on a particular topic. It is composed of. For this purpose, the research session manager 116 includes a research session detector 118 configured to make such a determination automatically. The research session detector 118 can access the query log 108 and / or other sources of information to make the determination as described in more detail herein. How the research session detector 118 automatically determines if a user is conducting a research session using the search engine 106, and the research session manager 116 in response to such a determination. How to provide access to is described in more detail below.
By automatically providing access to one or more research-related tools in response to automatic detection of a research session, Research Session Manager 116 can advantageously improve the experience of the user conducting the research session. .. For example, such features ensure that access to (single or multiple) research-related tools is provided at the right time and in situations that are convenient for the user. This method also requires the user to be proactively aware that a research session on a particular topic will be initiated, and then, based on this recognition, take positive action to initiate a (single or multiple) research tool. It also shows improvements beyond the methods that must be done. This latter method requires more planning and effort by the user than necessary. The way to always provide the user with access to the (single) research tool is that the user actually does this (single), especially if the (single) research tool is useless for most of the search sessions that the user performs. The method performed by Research Session Manager 116 may be considered preferable to this method, as it may cause some tools to be ignored.
Like the search engine 106, the research session manager 116 can be implemented with hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. For example, Research Session Manager 116 can include software / firmware that runs within one or more processors of one or more computer systems, such as one or more servers.
B. Detecting research sessions and providing access to research tools in response FIG. 3 automatically accesses one or more research tools in response to detecting that a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 300 is a flow chart 300 of the method for providing. The method of flow diagram 300 will be described with reference to the elements of system 100. However, this method is not limited to this embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 3, the method of flow diagram 300 begins at step 302, where the research session detector 118 retrieves information about a series of queries submitted by users of search engine 106. The user can be, for example, one of the users of computers 104a to 104c, and can submit a query to the search engine 106 from any one of the computers 104a to 104c via the network 105 by the method described above.
Information about the query can include, in addition to the query itself, information about the document identified by search engine 106 in response to receiving the query. Information about a document identified by the search engine 106 includes, for example, the title of the document, the URL associated with the document, the text of the document, the summary or summary of the document generated by the search engine 106, and one or more tags associated with the document. , Can contain various metadata related to the document.
Information about a set of queries can also include the total number of queries in this sequence. The number of queries in a sequence can be thought of as indicating the length of a particular information retrieval session. Information about a series of queries can further include the number of documents retrieved in response to individual queries that are subsequently accessed by the user via the search results page provided by search engine 106.
Depending on the implementation configuration, all or part of the information about a series of queries can be obtained from the query log 108 and / or directly from the search engine 106. In addition, all or part of the information regarding a series of queries can be obtained from the browsing history log (not shown in FIG. 1) that can be held by the same entity that holds the search engine 106. The browsing history log maintains a list of documents that the user has previously accessed, regardless of whether the user accessed through an interface such as the search results page provided by the search engine 106. To retain browsing history information for a particular user, you need to install certain browser software on the computer used to access the document. In addition, all or part of the information about a series of queries can be obtained from one or more network-level server logs that can be held by the same entity holding search engine 106. Furthermore, all or part of the information about a series of queries is stored locally on one of the computers 104a-104c and then over the network 105 as part of the interaction between the computer and the search engine 106. You can also communicate.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram 400 showing the research session detector 118, and various sources from which the detector can obtain information about a series of queries submitted by users of search engine 106, according to various embodiments of the present invention. is there. As shown in FIG. 4, the research session detector 118 provides information about a series of queries from query log 108, browsing history log 402, one or more network-level server logs 404, from search engine 106, or from the user. It can be obtained from computer 104. Block diagram 400 is not intended to indicate that the research session detector 118 must obtain information about a series of queries from all these sources, but rather implements information about a series of queries. It is intended to indicate that it can be obtained from one or more of these sources, depending on.
Here again with reference to Flow Figure 300, in step 302, after the research session detector 118 has acquired information about a series of queries submitted by the user, the research session detector 118, as shown in step 304, Based on the information obtained, it is determined whether a user of search engine 106 is conducting a research session on a specific topic. The method by which the research session detector 118 determines whether a user of search engine 106 is conducting a research session on a particular topic is described in more detail below. Continuing with reference to block diagram 400 in FIG. 4, the output of this step is shown as "research session verdict".
In response to a determination from the research session detector 118 that a user of search engine 106 is conducting a research session on a particular topic, in step 306, the research session manager 116 tells the user one or more research tools. Provide access to. Access to (single or multiple) research tools is, for example, on the search results page, or other interfaces that search engine 106 provides to the computer 104 associated with the user, or on top of these specific prompts or user interface elements. It can be provided through insertion or overlay display. The following sections describe various means by which embodiments of the present invention can provide access to (s) research tools.
1. Research session detection factors The research session detector 118 can consider a variety of factors to determine if a user of search engine 106 is conducting a research session on a particular topic. These individual factors can be used to determine if a user has a research intent based on how or as a result the user interacts with the search engine 106. Some of these factors will be described below. Each of these factors can be considered alone or in combination with other factors. When considering a combination of factors, individual factors can be weighted as they reach the final determination of whether a research session is taking place. It should be noted that the following factors are merely described as an example and do not limit the present invention.
Information retrieval session length. In one embodiment, the length of the information retrieval session is considered in an attempt to determine if the user has research intent. In general, the longer the information retrieval session, the more likely the user is involved in the research. In the embodiment, the current total number of search queries submitted by the user is used as an index of the length of the information retrieval session.
The number of documents accessed during the information retrieval session. In one embodiment, the number of documents accessed during an information retrieval session is considered in an attempt to determine the research intent on the part of the user. For example, a user can access a document by invoking a link to the document on the search results page provided by search engine 106. In general, the more documents a user visits, the more likely they are to be involved in the research. The number of documents accessed can be analyzed alone, with respect to the particular queries involved in identifying the documents, or with respect to the total number of queries submitted by the user. For example, if the ratio of the number of accessed documents to the number of submitted queries is high, it can be considered that a research session is likely to be conducted. Conversely, if a large number of queries are submitted but few documents are accessed, the user can be considered more likely to have difficulty generating the query than doing research.
Similarity between queries. In one embodiment, the degree of similarity between question words in a series of queries is considered in an attempt to determine if the user has research intent. A high level of similarity between two or more queries suggests that the user is doing multiple searches around the same topic and may indicate a research session. Various techniques are known in the art for measuring the similarity between different words or word sequences. For example, such a technique may include identifying common terms or basic concepts between different words or word sequences. The common terms or basic concepts thus identified can be further used to help identify and describe one of the topics in the research session when it is detected.
Similarities between documents identified in response to a query. In one embodiment, a measure of similarity between documents identified by search engine 106 in response to different queries is considered in an attempt to determine the intent of research on the part of the user. A high level of similarity between documents identified in response to different queries may indicate a research session as it suggests that the user is performing multiple searches around the same topic. There is.
Comparing documents is related to comparing the text in the document, or to the title of the document, the URL associated with the document, the summary or summary of the document generated by the search engine 106, the tags associated with the document, the document. It can include comparing other information that represents the content of the document, such as various metadata. When comparing text in many documents, only selected parts of the text can be compared. For example, in one embodiment, only a specific number of terms that appear most frequently in individual documents are compared. If the information to be compared contains text, similarity measurements can be made using various techniques known in the art for measuring similarities between different words or word sequences. As described above, such techniques may include identifying common terms or basic concepts between different words or word sequences. The common terms or basic concepts identified in this way can be further used to help identify and describe one of the topics in the research session when it is detected.
Comparing documents can include comparing only a portion of the documents identified by search engine 106 in response to different queries. For example, you can compare only a certain number of documents that are most relevant to an individual query. Alternatively, only documents accessed by the user during the information retrieval session can be used in the comparison.
Previous research session. In one embodiment, if the user is currently submitting a query or generating search results that appear to be on the same topic, the user initiated or conducted a research session on a particular topic during a previous information retrieval session. I think that the index is important. In this case, it can be inferred that the user is continuing the same research session and therefore it is appropriate to provide access to (s) research tools. Data used by Research Session Manager 116 to indicate whether a user has started or conducted a research session on a particular topic during a previous information retrieval session can be retained by Research Session Manager 116 or from the computer 104 associated with the user. Can be obtained.
A combination of factors. Depending on the implementation configuration, it is possible to determine whether a user is conducting a research session on a particular topic, taking into account the various combinations of factors described above. For example, if a given number of queries in a series of queries are determined to be related to the same topic and a certain number of documents identified by search engine 106 in response to these queries are accessed by the user, a research session is detected. can do. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that other combinations and substitutions of the above factors can be considered in the detection of research sessions.
2. Diversity of research session detection methods Flow Figure 300 shows whether the research session detector 118 is conducting a research session by analyzing information about a series of queries submitted by search engine 106 users during a single information retrieval session. This is a description of a scenario for determining. On the other hand, in an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the research session detector 118 analyzes information about a query submitted by a user of search engine 106 during a plurality of information retrieval sessions, and the user conducts a research session. It can be determined whether or not it is present. Such a method presupposes the recognition that the user may actually do research on the topic for a long time, and therefore the research may span multiple information retrieval sessions.
This alternative method is shown in Flow Figure 500 of FIG. As illustrated, the method of Flow Diagram 500 begins at step 502, where the research session detector 118 retrieves information about a series of queries submitted by users of search engine 106 during the current information retrieval session. .. This step is similar to step 302 in Flow Figure 300 described above and therefore does not need further explanation. In step 504, the research session detector 118 acquires information about a series of queries submitted by users of search engine 106 during one or more previous research sessions. The information retrieved during step 504 may be of the same type as the information retrieved in step 502, and from the same source, except that it relates to one or more previous information retrieval sessions performed by the user. It may be the acquired one. In step 506, the research session detector 118 determines whether a user of search engine 106 is conducting a research session on a particular topic based on the information obtained in both steps 502 and 504. Factors analyzed by the research session detector 118 in making such a determination include, for example, any of the factors described in the previous section, except that such factors can also include data about previous information retrieval sessions. Can be mentioned. In step 508, in response to a determination from the research session detector 118 that a user of search engine 106 is conducting a research session on a particular topic, the research session manager 116 goes to one or more research tools for the user. Provide access to.
The methods of Flow Diagram 300 and Flow Diagram 500 described above rely on automatically detecting research sessions by analyzing information about a series of queries submitted by users of search engine 106. However, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the research session detector 118 is used to identify information about documents that the user has accessed on the World Wide Web 105, such documents have been identified by search engine 106, or search engine 106. It can be configured to analyze whether it is accessed by the user through the interface provided by. Such information can be obtained from a browser log such as the browsing history log 402 as described above or some other source with reference to FIG.
Such a method is shown in the flow diagram 600 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the method of flow diagram 600 begins at step 602, where the research session detector 118 acquires information about some documents accessed by the user. As mentioned above, such information can be obtained from a browser log such as the browsing history log 402 as described above or some other source with reference to FIG. In step 604, the research session detector determines if the user is conducting a research session on a particular topic based on the information obtained in step 602. Determining if a user is conducting a research session is to analyze the documents accessed by the user or information about them to detect similarities between such documents, or to detect common topics in documents. Can include. In step 606, the research session manager 116 provides access to one or more research tools in response to a determination from the research session detector 118 that the user is conducting a research session on a particular topic.
3. Providing access to research tools Here, various means for enabling the research session manager 116 to provide the user with access to one or more research tools according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. In general, in each of the embodiments described in this section, the first access to the research tool (s) is in the search results page, or in any other interface provided by the search engine 106 to the computer 104, or these. It is provided to the user through the automatic insertion or overlay of specific prompts or user interface elements on top of it. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments, and other means for providing access to (s) research tools may also be used.
FIG. 7 shows a search result page 700, including means for accessing research tools, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The search result page 700 can be presented to the user by the search engine 106. As shown in FIG. 7, the search result page 700 includes a search result section 702 and a header section 704. Search results section 702 is used to display information about the document identified by search engine 106 in response to a user submitting a search query. Header section 704 includes a data entry box 712 and a search button 714. The data entry box 712 defines a user editable area in which one or more question words can be entered. The search button 714 includes an interface element that causes the search engine 106 to perform a document search based on the (single or multiple) question words entered in the data entry box 712 when invoked by the user. On page 700 of the search results, the data entry box 712 contains the question "fractal semiconductor thermodynamics". These questions are intended to represent the questions that search engine 106 used to identify the document described in search results section 702.
Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the search results page 700 also includes a research tool access section 706. The research tool access section 706 can be automatically included in the search result page 700 in response to the research session detection by the research session detector 118. The research tool access section 706 includes a guidance section 722 and a research tool launch button 724. The guidance part 722 contains text asking the user if he or she wants to summarize his or her research. The research tool launch button 724 includes an interface element that allows the user to see the research tool when launched by the user. For example, you can display your research tools in a new window that overlays the window on which the search results page 700 is displayed. In one embodiment, the research tool is embodied in a research document on the subject of research by the user.
FIG. 8 shows an alternative search result page 800, including means for accessing research tools, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The search result page 800 can also be presented to the user by the search engine 106. As shown in FIG. 8, the search results page 800 includes a search results section 802, a header section 804, and a research tool access section 806. These sections are essentially the same as the search results section 702, header section 704, and research tool access section 706 as described above with reference to the search results page 700, and function similarly.
Further, as shown in Figure 8, search results page 800 also includes research session status section 808. Similar to Research Tool Access Section 806, Research Session Status Section 808 can be automatically included in Search Results Page 800 in response to the detection of a research session by Research Session Detector 118. Research Session Status Section 808 is intended to indicate to the user that research on a particular topic will be recorded for the user. Research Session Status Section 808 contains a description 812 of the topic "Fractal Semiconductors" as shown in Figure 8 and research on this is recorded. The description of the topic can be derived, for example, from the analysis of search queries submitted by the user and / or the documents identified by the search engine 106 in response to such queries. As mentioned above, such analysis can be performed as part of the research session detection function performed by the research session detector 118. Research session status section 808 also includes an indication of the number of searches made by the user on a particular topic 814 and an indication of the number of documents accessed by the user on a particular topic 816.
FIG. 9 shows a further version of search results page 900, including means for accessing research tools, according to embodiments of the present invention. Like the search results pages 700 and 800, the search results page 900 includes a search results section 902, a header section 904, and a research tool access section 906. The research tool access section 906 can be automatically included in the search result page 900 in response to the research session detection by the research session detector 118. Research Tool Access Section 906 includes guidance section 922 and Research Tool Launch Link 924. The guidance part 922 contains text asking the user if he / she wants to summarize his / her research. The research tool launch link 924 includes an interface element that allows the user to see the research tool when launched by the user. For example, you can display your research tools in a new window that overlays the window that displays the search results page 900.
Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the header section 904 of the search result page 900 includes a data entry box 912 and a search button 914. In general, these interface elements function similarly to the data entry box 712 and search button 714 on search results page 700, respectively. However, unlike the data entry box 712 on search result page 700, the data entry box 912 on search result page 900 also includes the research tool launch icon 932. The Research Tool Launch Icon 932 is an interface element that provides access to the Research Tool when launched by the user in a manner similar to the Research Tool Launch Link 924. However, unlike the research tool launch link 924, which will only be included in the search results page 900 when the research session is detected by the research session detector 118, the research tool launch icon 932 will have the research session launched. Displayed regardless of whether it was detected. Therefore, the research tool launch icon 932 provides the user with a more persistent means of invoking the research tool. This means that the user has not yet started a research session but wants to call a research tool anyway, or the user is involved in a research session but the research session detector 118 could not detect this. Can be useful in such situations. In some embodiments, launching the research tool launch icon 932 will bring up a menu of research documents that have been accumulated by or for the user, and selecting one of these research documents will bring up the research tool. become.
FIG. 10 shows a search result page 1000 that includes means for accessing research tools implemented as an on-page drop-down window or panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, the search results page 1000 includes a search results section 1002, a header section 1004, a research tool access section 1006, and two sections 1008 and 1010 for sponsored search results. The research tool access section 1006 can be automatically included in the search result page 1000 in response to the research session detection by the research session detector 118. Research Tool Access Section 1006 contains Research Tool Launch Link 1022. The research tool launch link 1022 is an interface element that allows the user to see the research tool when launched by the user. Research Tool Launch Link 1022 advantageously contains text describing the topic of the detected research session and asking the user if he or she wants to keep a record of his or her research. As shown in Figure 10, the topic of the research session detected by the research session detector 118 is "hdtv". Research Tool Access Section 1006 also includes a cancellation element 1024 (shown by an "x") that allows the user to refuse guidance to access the research tool. Cancel element 1024 causes research tool access section 1006 to be removed from search results page 1000 when invoked by the user, destroying any recorded research session results.
When the user launches the Research Tool Launch Link 1022, the Research Tool is displayed to the user in the on-page drop-down window within the search results page 1000. The on-page drop-down window extends from below header section 1004. Specifically, as shown in Figure 10, two on-page drop-down windows can be accessed from the tabs at the bottom of header section 1004, and the first tab section 1012, labeled "Assistance," is searched. Encourage access to assistive tools intended to assist users in creating queries and retrieving desired information, and a second tab section 1014, labeled "Records," facilitates access to research tools. To access any of these tools, you need to select the appropriate tab and then launch extension element 1016. Improve the user experience by avoiding or at least mitigating window management issues while conducting research by using on-page drop-down windows or panels to display research tools as opposed to separate windows. be able to.
FIG. 11 shows another search result page 1100, including means for accessing research tools implemented as an on-page drop-down window or panel according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 11, the search results page 1100 includes a search results section 1102, a header section 1104, a research tool access section 1106, and two sections 1108 and 1110 dedicated to sponsored search results. On search results page 1100, Research Tool Access Section 1106 contains a simplified version of the Research Tool that appears in the on-page drop-down window or panel under Header Section 1104. A simplified version of the research tool can appear in the on-page drop-down window in response to the research session detection by the research session detector 118. To access the full or extended version of Research Tools, the user must activate Extension Element 1112 in Research Tools Access Section 1106. Research Tool Access Section 1106 also includes a cancellation element 1114 (shown as an "x") that allows the user to discontinue viewing a simplified version of the research tool. Cancellation element 1114 closes the window in Research Tools Access Section 1206 when invoked by the user so that any recorded research session results are discarded.
FIG. 12 shows yet another search result page 1200, including means for accessing research tools implemented as an on-page drop-down window or panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 12, the search results page 1200 is dedicated to search results section 1202, header section 1204, first research tool access section 1206, second research tool access section 1208, and sponsored search results. Includes two sections 1210 and 1212. On the search result page 1200, the first research tool access section 1206 and the second research tool access section 1208 can be displayed, respectively, in response to the detection of the research session by the research session detector 118.
The first research tool access section 1206 contains a simplified version of the research tool (similar to the research tool access section 1106) that appears in the on-page drop-down window under header section 1204. The second research tool access section 1208 contains the research tool launch link 1212. The Research Tool Launch Link 1212 causes the user to see an extended version of the simplified research tool shown in the first Research Tool Access Section 1206 when launched by the user. The Research Tool Launch Link 1212 advantageously contains text describing the topic of the detected research session (hdtv) and text asking the user if he or she wants to resume recording about his or her research. References to resuming recording within the Research Tool Launch Link 1212 indicate that the research session detected by the research session detector 118 is an extension of the existing research session associated with the user. A second research tool access section 1208 also includes a cancellation element 1214 (shown as an "x") that allows the user to refuse guidance to resume a research session.
13A and 13B show a search result page 1300, and a research tool preview element 1306 overlaid on the search result page 1300 in response to detection of a research session, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 13A, search results page 1300 includes search results section 1302 and header section 1304. As shown in Figure 13B, the research tool preview element 1306 is overlaid on the search results page 1300 in response to the research session detection by the research session detector 118. The research tool preview element 1306 provides a depiction of what the research document that embodies the research tool looks like if the user chooses to access the research tool. As further shown in Figure 13B, the decision box 1308 is also overlaid on the search results page 1300. The decision box 1308 either approves the continuation of the research record by clicking "OK" so that the research document is retained, or cancels the continuation of the research record by clicking "Cancel". Ask the user to either ensure that the research document is destroyed.
In certain embodiments of the invention, different means of accessing the research tool can be presented to the user, depending on the level of reliability associated with the detection of the research session. Thus, for example, if a research session is detected by the research session detector 118 but the reliability level is relatively low, the user can be presented with a first means of accessing the research tool. On the other hand, if the research session is detected by the research session detector 118 but the reliability level is relatively high, a second means for accessing the research tool can be presented to the user. The first means may include a less noticeable or less intrusive way to encourage the user to access the research tool as compared to the second means. In this way, the level of user involvement matches the level of certainty that the user will benefit from accessing research tools. For example, in one embodiment, the first means is to simply insert a guide to use the research tool into the body of the search results page, as shown in FIG. 9, or to search, as shown in FIG. Whereas a simplified version of the research tool can be included in the drop-down window within the results page, the second method is to have the research tool on the search results page, as shown in Figures 13A and 13B. It can include overlaying preview elements. Other variants of this method can also be used. A general description of this method is shown in FIG. 14 in flow diagram format.
C. Implementation configuration of an exemplary computer system The embodiments described herein can be implemented using well-known servers / computers such as the computer 1500 shown in FIG. 15, including systems, methods / processes, and / or devices. For example, one or more computers 1500 are used to implement the methods described in the search engine 106 and research session manager 116 of FIG. 1 and the flow charts shown in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, and 14. be able to.
Computer 1500 is any well-known, commercially available computer that can perform the functions described herein, such as computers commercially available from International Business Machines, Apple, Sun, HP, Dell, Cray, and others. It may be. The computer 1500 may be any type of computer, including a desktop computer, a server, and the like.
Computer 1500 includes one or more processors (also called central processing units or CPUs) such as processor 1504. The processor 1504 is connected to a communication infrastructure 1502 such as a communication bus. In some embodiments, processor 1504 can compute multiple compute threads at the same time.
Computer 1500 also includes primary or main memory 1506, such as random access memory (RAM). The main memory 1506 stores the control logic 1528A (computer software) and data.
Computer 1500 also includes one or more secondary storage devices 1510. The secondary storage device 1510 includes, for example, a hard disk drive 1512 and / or a removable storage device or drive 1514, and other types of storage devices such as memory cards and memory sticks. For example, computer 1500 can include industry standard interfaces such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface for interfacing with devices such as memory sticks. Removable storage drive 1514 represents a floppy (registered trademark) disk drive, magnetic tape drive, compact disk drive, optical storage device, tape backup, and the like.
The removable storage drive 1514 interacts with the removable storage unit 1516. The removable storage unit 1516 includes computer software 1528B (control logic) and / or a computer-enabled or computer-readable storage medium 1524 that stores data. Removable storage unit 1516 represents a floppy® disk, magnetic tape, compact disk, DVD, optical storage disk, or any other computer data storage device. The removable storage drive 1514 reads / writes to / from the removable storage unit 1516 in a well-known manner.
Computer 1500 also includes input / output / display devices 1522 such as monitors, keyboards and pointing devices.
Computer 1500 further includes a communication or network interface 1518. Communication interface 1518 allows the computer 1500 to communicate with remote systems and devices. For example, the communication interface 1518 allows the computer 1500 to communicate over a communication network or medium 1542 such as LAN, WAN, or the Internet. The network interface 1518 can interface with a remote site or network via a wired or wireless connection.
The control logic 1528C can be transmitted to and from the computer 1500 via the communication medium 1542. More specifically, the computer 1200 can transmit and receive a carrier wave (electromagnetic signal) modulated by the control logic 1528C via the communication medium 1542.
As used herein, any device or product, including a computer-enabled or computer-readable medium that stores control logic (software), is referred to as a computer program product or program storage device. This includes, but is not limited to, computer 1500, main memory 1506, secondary storage 1510, and removable storage unit 1516. Such computer program products that store control logic, when executed by one or more data processing devices, operate such data processing devices as described herein, according to embodiments of the present invention. To represent.
The present invention may also function in software, hardware, and / or operating system implementation configurations other than those described herein. Any software, hardware, and operating system implementation configuration suitable for performing the functions described herein may be used.
D. Conclusion Although various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that these are merely examples and are not limited. One of ordinary skill in the art can make various changes in form and detail to the above embodiments without departing from the ideas and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Will be clear. Therefore, the scope and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only by the following claims and their equivalents.
302 Get information about a series of queries submitted by search engine users 304 Based on the information obtained, determine if a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic. 306 Provides users with access to one or more research tools in response to the determination that a search engine user is conducting a research session on a particular topic.
Every citation, both ways
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| JP2008533596A | Cites | Japan |
| JP2002215659A | Cites | Japan |
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17 members in 7 offices
Priority claims9
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| KR20110036852A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| EP2318958A2 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A2 | |
| CN102105878A | China | A | |
| EP2318958A4 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A4 | |
| JP2011530108A | Japan | A | |
| AU2009276771B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| KR20130031917A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| AU2013201484A1 | Australia | A1 | |
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Numbers
- Publication
- 5425906
- Publication, DOCDB
- 5425906
- Publication, EPODOC
- JP5425906B
- Application
- 2011521214
- Application, DOCDB
- 2011521214
- Application, EPODOC
- JP20110521214
Titles2
- Japanese
- リサーチセッションの検出に基づくリサーチツールへのアクセス
- English
- Access to research tools based on research session detection
Classification
- CPC, 3
- G06F16/9535
- G06F16/951
- G06F16/9538
- IPC, 1
- G06F17 30