Search query refinement using related search phrases
US6772150B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 22, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 3, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 12, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S707/99945
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A search engine system uses information about historical query submissions to a search engine to suggest previously-submitted, related search phrases to users. The related search phrases are preferably suggested based on a most recent set of query submission data (e.g., the last two weeks of submissions), and thus strongly reflect the current searching patterns or interests of users. The system is preferably implemented within a search engine used to locate items that are available for electronic purchase, but may be implemented within other types of search engines. In one embodiment, the related search phrases are scored and selected for display based at least in-part on an evaluation of the “usefulness” of each search phrase, as reflected by actions performed by prior users while viewing the corresponding search results.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.