DE102006015961A1 - Apparatus, method and computer program for processing a search query - Google Patents

Abstract

A device for processing a search query comprises a query receiver for receiving a search query from a first user and a categorizer for assigning the search query to a category from a plurality of different categories. The device further comprises a communication partner determiner for finding out a second user who has made a search query that is assigned to the same category, and an information provider for providing information to the first user that the second user exists who has a search query of the same Category, and information about the second user that the first user exists who made a search query for the same category. The mentioned concept can also be implemented as a method and a computer program. The concept described enables users who place search queries in the same category to enter into direct electronic communication. This ensures a particularly efficient exchange of knowledge between different users of the device according to the invention.

Description

The The present invention generally relates to a device, a method and a computer program for processing a search request, especially on a link the context of search queries from different users of a search engine, to over to enable a communication platform knowledge exchange.

In the information society today is always developing bigger amount of knowledge, so that a single person only a very small Share of the total available can absorb in-depth knowledge. However, it is for the individual often Requires new knowledge from the entire set of available knowledge based on a question. For this purpose must individuals have a targeted access to the entire available Have knowledge.

It is known to date, a large To summarize amount of knowledge in an electronic database and the user about a search function to allow access to this knowledge.

Around For example, information from the World Wide Web or the Internet to make discoverable, is a classic search engine technology, which is used for example in the known search engines such as "Google" and "Yahoo". According to the classic Search engine technology is based on the user after a search query certain algorithms an ordered list with web pages (resp. References to web pages or URL addresses), which in a fixed, defined by the algorithm relation to the search terms. The order of the list is also given by a given algorithm controlled, with the aim of supposedly relevant for the search web pages are at the top of the list. In practice, this sorting is often not always for the user sensible or to his query really suitable. Partly also occurs an additional Disruption by with technical measures specifically in front seats the advertisement placed on the list. So the user has some considerable Problems getting a suitable answer to his query.

It Thus, the object of the present invention, a concept for Processing a search query to create a more efficient Access to the available enables standing knowledge.

These Task is performed by a device for processing a search request according to claim 1, a method for processing a search request according to claim 16 or solved by a computer program according to claim 17.

The The present invention provides an apparatus for processing a Query with an inquiry receiver to receive a query from a first user, a categorizer to associate the search request to a category of a plurality of different categories and a communication partner determiner to find out one second user who has made a search query the same Category is like the first user's search query. The device according to the invention further comprises an information provider for providing information to the first user that the second user exists, the one Query of the same category, or to deliver an information to the second user that the first user exists, the a search query of the same category.

It is the core idea of an embodiment the present invention that a particularly efficient use of a Total available standing knowledge possible is by a user of a device to process a query is informed when another user makes a search query the same Category poses. For example, by providing the information to the first user of the device according to the invention that the second Users a search query of the same category to the device Thus, the first user becomes possible in purposefully in direct contact with another user (ie the second user) whose query is the same Category (for example, the same topic). Consequently become users who are looking for interested in the same category, informed of each other or For example, merged to build an electronic communication.

One embodiment the device according to the invention to process a search query thus offers the advantage that Knowledge can be accessed in a particularly efficient manner by: instead of a mere Query a knowledge base to identify users who potentially having knowledge in a particular category, and by these users the opportunity opened, to communicate with each other directly.

Consequently is not just one of the users of the device according to the invention in machine or electronic form stored knowledge available, but there is also the possibility Know other users who are in the same category (for example the same topic) are interesting to make.

Consequently allows the device according to the invention according to one embodiment a communication between human users, search queries in the same category. It has been shown that a human communication partner already has a search query the same category, a query from another Often understands the user better and can therefore answer faster as is the case with a classic search engine search.

Consequently may possibly a complicated one Search, for example, on the Internet or WorldWideWeb accounts, which both time and other resources (computing power and transmission power) can be saved.

at a preferred embodiment the information provider is designed to be responsive to a recognition that the first user and the second user search queries that the are assigned to the same category, the first user or the second user to obtain information that a Notification about a possibility for establishing electronic communication with each other (between the first user and the second user). In other words, it is recognized that two users of the inventive device search queries to the same category (or topic) at least one of the two users will be told how he enters into electronic communication with the other user can.

For example one of the two users becomes an electronic address or communication address the other user or an anonymous user ID of the other User communicated, or it is by the device itself one of communication made, so that the first user, for example, directly or by following a link or a link to communicate with the other user can. In other words, providing information about a possibility for establishing electronic communication with each other for example, in the form of providing a communication option including an indication that with the said communication option a communication with the other user is possible, or even the mere provision an electronic address information under which the other user is achievable include.

Further It is preferred that the information provided by the information provider Information includes a reference or information that the other user searches the same category at the same time Device has made, or that the other user potentially has a competence with regard to the search query.

at a further preferred embodiment is the device according to the invention further designed to provide a communication platform over which the first user and the second user communicate with each other can. Of the Information provider in the case is preferably designed to be the first Users and the second user to submit a message, which is designed to provide access to the communication platform enable. In other words, through the device itself becomes the possibility a communication between the first user and the second user created, and there is no need for an external Way of electronic communication between the first user and the second user. The communication platform is under the control of the device according to the invention, and the device according to the invention For example, based on the search queries, to set up the communication platform and the first user and the second users to assign appropriate access identifiers. The access codes can do it be generated in response to the search request, so that coordination between the communication platform and the device for processing the search query or the communication partner determiner. Thus, a user is already one by a search query alone suitable communication platform corresponding to the category of the search request assigned. Does a communication platform exist for the named Category of the query so far not yet, so this example be generated dynamically, without requiring any further action User is required. Thus, for example, eliminates the users for the Need to set up a facility in a separate step Communication platform, if he has an interest in terms of to a specific category of questions or queries. A communication platform becomes alone, based on the fact set up two users to search for matching categories, without even one of the users on its own a communication platform set up or an invitation to set up a communication platform emits.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the information provider transmits to the first user and / or the second user in addition to the device of the communication platform a message informing the first user of the existence of the second user, or informing the second user of the existence of the first user , In other words, in addition to the mere establishment or provision of a communication platform at least one of the users, but preferably both users, infor that there is another user who has made a search in the same category, and who may therefore be ready to communicate via the communication platform.

at a further preferred embodiment if the device according to the invention is designed for example, in response to the finding that the first Users and the second user search queries of the same category have an electronic chat room (or discussion room) to provide over that the first user and the second user communicate with each other can. In this case, the information provider is preferably designed to to send messages to the first user and the second user contain a reference to the electronic chat room. one or both users can but also be routed directly to the electronic chat room, or the electronic chat room can be part of a displayed information page (e.g., Web page) or Part of a framework, on or in the other results the search query presented become. Such an approach is particularly advantageous since an electronic chat room a thematic and anonymous communication two users within the same user interface (e.g., web browser), in which the search query has been sent or in the other Results to the query can be displayed.

at a further preferred embodiment the information provider is designed to be the first user and the second user to submit an authorization flag, the first User and the second user for authorizes access to the electronic chat room. By the integration of the communication platform in the device for For example, processing of search queries can be ensured Be that only people who actually have a search too of the specific category, also have access to that Received chat room. This ensures optimal user guidance, as a user exactly in the query space corresponding chat room is directed. Access to other chat rooms that may be for a user appear interesting, but do not match his query, can by the way repressed become. this leads to for example, to an increased Search efficiency, which is especially significant in a commercial environment increase effectiveness brings with it. Furthermore receives a user only then access to a communication platform like a chat room, if it matches the level of the respective chat room provides. This prevents, for example, that a user, who asks a very general query, enters a chat room, in (according to the corresponding Category) a very special topic is discussed, where the user with the very general search query for example the Discussion of the very special topic could not follow and possibly either disrupting the discussion in the communication platform or the communication platform disappoints would leave.

Further can through the linkage the authorization to the communication platform with the levy a search query, for example, an excessive amount of information be avoided in the communication platform, namely because users typically first some of the electronically generated results of the device to process a search query, and the communication platform only then use, if the automatically or electronically created Results of the search query your query is not sufficient Answer the way. Through the mechanism mentioned, a search query with the provision of a communication platform Thus, in turn, a particularly high efficiency in a processing of Guarantees queries.

at a further preferred embodiment The information provider is designed to give the first user information about an electronic To provide communication address of the second user, or to the second user information about to provide an electronic communication address of the first user. For example, at the electronic communication address an e-mail address, an IP address, a chat room identifier, a telephone number, an IP telephone number or an anonymous communication address (For example, associated with the device according to the invention is, and the forwarding by the device according to the invention allows) act. The information about includes the electronic communication address of the other user prefers an indication that the other user is searching a same category, so z. To the same topic, has made. By this measure thus becomes the first user of the existence of the second user informed or the second user of the existence of the first user, and it becomes one direct communication between the first user and the second user. The communication over the communication address is needed then not necessarily any resources of the device according to the invention, but can over external devices or other service providers.

In a further preferred Ausfüh For example, the device according to the invention comprises a message router and an identification database. The identification database is designed to store an association between anonymized electronic communication addresses and actual electronic communication addresses. The identification database comprises, for example, an anonymized electronic communication address of the first user, an anonymous electronic communication address of the second user, an actual electronic communication address of the first user and an actual electronic communication address of the second user. The message router is adapted to receive an electronic message having an anonymized electronic communication address as the destination address, to read out an actual electronic communication address associated with the anonymized electronic communication address from the identification database, and to forward the electronic message with the read actual electronic communication address. In this case, the information provider is preferably designed to provide the first user with the anonymized electronic communication address of the second user, or to provide the second user with the anonymized electronic communication address of the first user. Using the above concept, the first user and the second user can communicate with each other anonymously, the communication messages per se being able to be created and transmitted externally to the inventive device, and the device according to the invention merely forwarding the communication messages and replacing the anonymized ones Communication address by an in the identification database of the device according to the invention stored actual communication address makes. The device according to the invention thus only takes over the steps required for anonymization, but is otherwise relieved of the flow of communication between the first user and the second user, apart from the forwarding.

at a further preferred embodiment the communication partner determiner is designed to determine whether the second user for a communication available stands. The information provider is in this case preferably designed to deliver the information only if the communication partner-determiner indicates that the second user is available for communication. This avoids trying to do one Initiate communication between two users, one of which is not or not anymore for a communication available stands. This will be a disappointment of the remaining user, and user satisfaction is increased overall.

at a preferred embodiment the communication partner determiner is designed to indicate that the second user for a communication available is when the second user within a predetermined time interval (for example relative to the time of review, whether the second user available stands) has asked a query. By watching the search queries namely, the second user can in a simple manner by the inventive device for processing A search query determines whether the second user is active is.

at a further preferred embodiment is the communication partner determiner designed to find out whether the request-recipient the search queries of the first user and the second user to the same category within a given time interval Has. The information provider is designed in this case to the Information only to be supplied if the request recipient the search queries associated with the same category of the first user and the second user within the predetermined time interval has received. Such an approach results in a particular high user satisfaction, since it can be assumed that a user only for a certain time interval on a search query of a particular Category is interested.

Affect the search queries of the first user and the second user though the same category, the search queries are temporally but too far (longer apart from the given time interval), it is otherwise at least in some cases not meaningful to the two users by the information provider from each other to inform.

In a further embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises an information database with a plurality of entries relating to different possible search queries of different categories. A device according to the invention in this case preferably comprises an information database interrogator which is designed to search the information database for entries relating to a search request of the first user. The information provider is further preferably configured to provide to the first user, in addition to the information that the second user who made the search request of the same category, information based on at least one entry of the information database based on the search request of the first user refers to deliver. In the mentioned embodiment, a particularly advantageous link results knowledge stored in the information database with the knowledge of other users. Thus, the first user is both the knowledge from the information database available and he can make the knowledge of the second user to own. A user can decide which path of information access or knowledge access he considers appropriate in view of the entries supplied by the information database. In other words, the first user obtains with a single query both a reference to the knowledge collected in the information database and a reference to a human knowledge carrier, such as the second user who has made a search query of the same category.

Further can the device of the invention a priority mechanism which is designed to give the first user an order access to the entries the information data bank and the information with regard to on the second user, the search query of the same category asked to specify. For example, the flow control be designed to the entries of Information database or the corresponding references to others information carrier only then display when the first user aware of the existence of the second user, and for example (but not necessarily) either with this in communication is an attempt of communication between the first user and the second user has failed, or the first user of the informed device according to the invention has that he is recording a communication with the second user does not want.

alternative For this purpose, furthermore, the information provider can be designed to be the first For example, users first get a number of results from the information database query Let me know, and the information about deliver the existence of the second user to the first user only then, when the first user queries the results of the information database query has taken note. This can be done, for example, by a placement the results of the information database query before the information about the Existence of the second user. Alternatively, the information provider Also notice if the first user has a lot of information the results of the information database query was unsuccessful. A corresponding information can be obtained, for example, by evaluating the Behavior of the first user or by receiving an explicit Message of the first user to be won.

at a further preferred embodiment The categorizer is designed to search based on one or more words appearing in the search query at least one category. In other words, the categorizer can be designed to analyze the query into words to divide and based on the identified words a database that maps between words or word combinations and contains categories, to determine the category of the search query. Thus, the user becomes relieved, explicitly specify the category of his query to have to. Rather, the category of the search query becomes automatic, for example through a database query.

at a further preferred embodiment The categorizer is designed to provide a user with a List of categories to which the search query (for example according to the database query) is assignable to read in by the user a decision, too which category from the list of categories to assign the search query is, and the search query based on the decision to one Assign category. By such an embodiment is ensured that the user can decide to which category the search query belongs, if the categorizer does not have such an association in unique Can make way. In doing so, the categorizer prefers to create through a database query a list of categories to which the Search query is assignable to relieve the user. The user must in this case only a final selection or a selection to take the category from the list. It has been shown that in some cases is optimal, a pre-selection of categories automatically or based on a database query, and a final decision to a user.

The The present invention further provides a method of processing a query parallel to the inventive device for processing a search query. The corresponding method includes receiving a search request from a first user, assigning the search query to a category of a plurality of different categories, finding out a second user who made a search has assigned to the same category and delivery an information to the first user that the second user exists, who made a search query in the same category, or one Supplying information to the second user that the first User exists who put a search query of the same category Has.

The method according to the invention has the same advantages as the device according to the invention and, in preferred exemplary embodiments, can be supplemented by the same steps, which also occur in the embodiments of the device according to the invention.

The The present invention further includes a computer program for carrying out the inventive method.

preferred embodiments The present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS enclosed drawings closer explained. Show it:

1 a block diagram of a device according to the invention, for processing a search request according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

2 a block diagram of a categorizer according to the invention for use in a device according to the invention according to 1 ;

3 a schematic representation of a formation of common knowledge clusters by analysis of search queries;

4 a block diagram of a device according to the invention for processing a search request according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

5 a schematic representation of an invitation (E) of chat participants from a knowledge area and a knowledge transfer (WT) of all participants via a communication platform; and

6 a flowchart of a method according to the invention according to an embodiment of the present invention.

1 shows a block diagram of a device according to the invention for processing a search request. The device according to the 1 is in its entirety with 100 designated. The device 100 includes a polling receiver 110 which is designed to be a search query 112 to receive from a first user. The first user is also known as USER 1. The search query 112 Incidentally, for example, it may consist of one word or several words. Alternatively or additionally, however, the user query may also include multimedia information such as sounds, sound sequences, audio signals, video signals, image sections, images and other multimedia elements in any combination. The query recipient 110 forwards the received search queries 112 ' then to a categorizer 120 further. The categorizer 120 is designed to search query 112 or the received search query 112 ' to assign to a category (eg category 1) from a plurality of different categories. The categorizer 120 may also be alternatively configured to the query 112 . 112 ' assign to several categories. Corresponds to the search query 112 . 112 ' furthermore none of the categorizer 120 known categories, so the categorizer 120 a new one of the search query 112 . 112 ' create the appropriate category.

It should be noted that it is assumed in the following that the categorizer assigns the search request to the "category 1." It should also be noted that the function of the categorizer, for example, with regard to the 2 and 3 will be explained in more detail.

The categorizer 120 thus provides at least one piece of information 122 about the search query 112 . 112 ' associated category, allowing an association between the the search query 112 . 112 ' user (eg USER 1) and the category of the search query 112 . 112 ' is possible. A communication partner determiner 130 receives the information 122 about the category of the search query 112 . 112 ' and is further adapted to find a second user (hereinafter also referred to as USER 2) who has made a search request associated with the same category. For this purpose, the communication partner determiner can, for example, query a database containing an association between the various known categories and user identifiers or user identifiers of users who have made search queries of the corresponding category. An example of a data table of such a database or database table is with 140 designated. Further details regarding the database table 140 will be described below.

However, it is essential that the communication partner-determiner 130 identifies at least one other user, for example the second user USER 2, who has performed a search query of the same category, for example the "category 1", as the first user USER 1 whose query is currently from the communication partner determiner 130 is processed. The communication partner determiner 130 thus provides information 132 which, for example, either indicates which user has a query by the information 122 category or at least one piece of information 132 which indicates which other users in addition to the first user USER 1 whose query is currently being processed, a query by the information 122 described category. The information 132 can indicate that only the first user USER 1 is a query by the information 122 described category, that besides the first user USER 1 another user (eg the second user USER 2) has submitted a search query of the corresponding category (category 1), or that, in addition to the first user USER 1, a plurality of additional users have made search queries of the named category. The following example assumes that the information 132 indicates that both the first user USER 1 and the second user USER 2 have a query by information 122 described category (category 1).

An information provider 150 thus receives the information 132 and is designed to be based on the information 132 to provide information to the first user USER 1 and / or to the second user USER 2. In one embodiment example, the information provider 150 designed to provide information to the first user USER 1 152 which indicates to the first user USER 1 that a second user, namely the second user USER 2, exists, who has made a search request of the same category (category 1) as the first user USER 1. Alternatively or additionally, the information provider 150 be designed to provide to the second user USER 2 information indicating to the second user USER 2 that the first user USER 1 a query to the by the information 122 designated category (for example category 1).

It is sufficient, first, that the information provider 150 the information 152 tells the first user USER 1 that there is another user (for example, the second user USER 2) who searches for the information 122 designated category. Similarly, it is sufficient that the information provider 150 the second user USER 2 through the information 154 indicates that another user (for example the first user USER 1) exists, who has made a search query for the named category.

However, it is preferred that the information 152 the first user USER 1 is an indication that (and optionally additionally by which way) the first user USER 1 has the opportunity to establish a communication link with the second user USER 2. Similarly, it is preferred that the information 154 the second user USER 2 is an indication that he has the opportunity to communicate with the first user USER 1 via a communication connection.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the information 152 anonymous or non-anonymized information about the second user USER 2 includes that allows the first user USER 1 to establish a communication connection with the second user USER 2. Similarly, it is preferred that the information 154 includes anonymized or non-anonymized information about the first user USER 1, which enables the second user USER 2 to establish a communication connection with the first user USER 1.

The device according to the invention 100 thus allows two users (for example, the first user USER 1 and the second user USER 2), who have both queries of the same category (eg, category 1), to contact each other. For example, once the first user USER 1 through the information 152 is informed that a second user USER 2 exists, who has made a search query of the same category, the first user USER 1 can initiate a set-up of a communication connection with the second user USER 2. The structure of the communication connection can by the device according to the invention 100 be supported by, for example, the device 100 with the information provider 150 the first user USER 1 directly provides information that this can use to identify the second user USER 2. The information 152 For this purpose, it may preferably contain an anonymized or non-anonymized identification of the second user USER 2. Alternatively, the information 152 Also only contain information that the device 100 makes it possible to set up a communication link between the first user USER 1 and the second user USER 2 if the first user USER 1 so desires.

Possibly, alternatively or additionally, the second user USER 2 information 152 essentially, receive the information 152 but contains the information or identifier required to contact the first USER 1 user.

Following is the construction and application of the database table 140 received by querying those of the communication partner-determiner 130 Users can determine the one or more searches made by the information 122 designated category. The database table 140 For example, this includes a first database column for this purpose 162 which describes the categories from the majority of different categories. A second database column 164 the database table 140 For example, by an anonymous or non-anonymized user identifier (eg USER 1, USER 2, USER 3, USER 4, USER 5) different users of the device 100 , The database table 140 Generally speaking, there is an association between different users of the device 100 and related categories to which users Search queries. In other words, the database table 140 generally describes which users of the device 100 Search queries for which category or categories. It should also be noted that the communication partner-determiner 130 not necessarily on a database table 140 but only generally speaking evaluates a database that allows him to those users of the device 100 to determine the searches by the information 122 marked category. The communication partner determiner 130 thus delivers to the corresponding database (represented by the database table 140 ) a query 170 that of the categorizer 120 delivered category of query 112 . 112 ' describes. The corresponding database then provides a query response 172 to the communication partner determiner 130 , where the query response 172 those users of the device 100 for example, by user identifiers describing the searches to that of the categorizer 120 supplied category.

Otherwise, the database or the database table 140 according to the categorizer 120 supplied information 122 to be updated. In other words, the categorizer reports 120 that an i-th user USER i has made a query of the category j, the database or database table 140 added an entry that reflects the above facts.

Moreover, it is noted that in the database or database table 140 a given category can not be assigned a user, one or more users who have made searches of the given category. Otherwise, the database or database table 140 reflect the fact that a user has made searches of different categories. Alternatively, however, the database may also contain only the last search request of a user, so that, for example, each user is assigned at most one category of a search request. Furthermore, the database or the database table 140 Include a time stamp indicating when a given user has submitted the search query for a given category. The database management (not shown here), for example, can be designed to all those entries of the database or database table 140 be deleted, the time too long (ie longer than a predetermined period) ago.

Alternatively, the communication partner determiner 130 be designed to only those entries of the query response 172 to take into account, which lag behind in time shorter than a predetermined maximum time interval. Such a mechanism can ensure that old or too old information is not used, or that the communication between two users is only initiated if the two users have made a query of the same category within a sufficiently short time interval.

2 shows a block diagram of a categorizer for use of his device according to the invention 100 according to 1 ,

The categorizer according to 2 is in its entirety with 200 and may, for example, the categorizer 120 the device 100 replace.

The categorizer 200 receives a search request 212 , which consists for example of one or more search terms (for example, two search terms search term 1, search term 2). Alternatively, the search query may include multimedia information, as described above. The categorizer includes, for example, a database categorizer 220 which is designed to be a category of the search query 212 by querying a database. The database categorizer 220 As a result, provides information 222 that describes one or more categories of which the search request 212 assigned.

It should be noted that the query 212 for example, the search query 112 or the received query 112 ' the device 100 according to 1 can correspond, and that the information 222 the information 122 the device 100 according to 1 can correspond. The database categorizer 222 For example, it is designed to be represented to a database by a first database table 230 and an alternate second database table 240 a query based on the query 212 to deliver. The inquiry or database inquiry is with 250 and includes, for example, one or more of those in the search query 212 contained search terms and optionally or optionally information about the logical link (AND, OR, NOT, etc.) of the search terms.

The database table shown as an example 230 describes an association between different categories of the plurality of different categories and associated search terms or logical combinations of search terms. For example, the database table 230 define that query 212 Assign to the first category, if in the search query 212 both a first search term (search term 1) and a second search term (search term 2) occur. Further For example, the database table may define that query 212 or the database query 250 then assign it to the first category, if in the database query 250 both the first search term (search term 1) and a third search term (search term 3) occur. As another example, the database table 230 define that the database query 250 is to be assigned to the second category if the database query contains a fourth search term (search term 4). In other words, the database may, for example, define that a particular category exists when in the database query 250 a specific search term or a logical combination of search terms is present. Thus, the database allows for one or more search terms in the database query 250 to conclude the existence of one or more categories. The query response 252 thus describes to which category or categories according to the content of the database the database query 250 equivalent. The information 222 describes the category or categories of the search query 212 equivalent.

The database categorizer 220 For example, it may be configured to respond to a plurality of database query responses according to an existing rule 252 delivered categories one best to the query 212 to select the appropriate category. Alternatively, the database categorizer 220 but also be designed to get through the information 222 to describe several categories.

Includes the information 222 several categories, so the communication partner determination by the communication partner-determiner 130 the device 100 according to 1 several times in parallel or sequentially. In other words, in a sequential processing, for example, sequentially several categories as information 122 to the communication partner determiner 130 delivered, in turn, several times an information 132 generates one or more communication partners.

Thus, the information provider 150 more informations 152 to the query 112 generating user (eg USER 1). Furthermore, the information provider 150 in this case, alternatively or additionally, information 154 to several other users.

In a further preferred embodiment, the categorizer comprises 200 optionally a user-category queryer 260 , The user category queryer 260 receives the information 222 , Describes the information 222 several categories, so gives the user-category querier 260 a list 262 the more by the information 222 described categories to the user from the search query 212 provides. The user category queryer 260 in this case receives a selection from said user 264 a category from the list 262 possible categories. The selection 264 Alternatively, a plurality of categories from the list may also be provided 262 include possible categories. Includes the selection 264 however, only one category, so delivers the user-category querier 260 an information 268 that describes exactly one category. The information 268 can take the place of the information 122 the device 100 according to 1 to step.

Thus, by using the user-category queryer 260 in a two-step process an optimal category of the search query 212 be determined. The database categorizer encounters a database query 250 For example, a preselection of a category, whereas the user-category querier allows a final selection of the category with the help of the user asking the search query. The user is thus only with a limited list 262 of possible categories, which typically represents only a subset of the total available categories. This makes it easier for the user to make a selection 264 to deliver an optimal category.

It should be stressed, however, that the categorizer 200 is just one possible example of a categorizer, but that other categorizers can be used that are a query 212 an information 222 respectively. 268 Assign via a category. It should also be noted that the use of the user category querier 260 is optional.

The 3 shows a schematic representation of a formation of common knowledge clusters by analysis of search queries. The graphic representation of the 3 is in its entirety with 300 designated. The graphic representation 300 of the 3 shows how different queries from different users are assigned to different categories or knowledge clusters. An analysis of a search query 310 For example, a user with user ID 4654 indicates that the search query 310 is associated with a knowledge cluster XZY. The knowledge cluster XZY is also available 314 denotes and describes a topic area or a category, that of the search query 310 for example, due to an analysis 312 assigned. The analysis 312 For example, based on the 2 shown way by evaluating the search 310 respectively.

A search query 320 a user with user ID 4655 will also be analyzed 322 subjected. The analysis 322 indicates that the search query 320 the user with the user ID 4655 a knowledge cluster XGA ( 324 ). Similarly, a search query 330 of a user with the user ID 12566 the knowledge cluster XGA ( 324 ), what by the analysis 332 is detected. A search query 340 of a user with the user ID 30032 is also the knowledge cluster XGA ( 324 ). In other words, the search queries of the three users with the user ID 4655, 12566 and 30032 are the knowledge cluster XGA ( 324 ). In other words, the users with the user ID 4655, 12566 and 30032, whose query the knowledge cluster XGA ( 324 ) are considered as knowledge carriers with regard to the knowledge cluster XGA. In other words, the three users mentioned are assigned to the knowledge cluster XGA or to a category corresponding to the knowledge cluster XGA. Thus, it is preferred that, for example, there is a one-to-one correspondence between a knowledge cluster and a category. The corresponding state of affairs, ie the assignment of the users to knowledge clusters, can be done, for example, by the database table 140 be stored database.

The analyzes 312 . 322 . 332 . 342 the search queries 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 Incidentally, they correspond to the categorization by the categorizer 220 . 200 , The assignment of search queries 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 to the knowledge clusters 314 . 324 Incidentally, the information corresponds 122 . 222 . 268 by the categorizers 120 . 200 is delivered.

4 shows a block diagram of a device according to the invention for processing a search request according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The device of 4 is in its entirety with 400 designated. The block diagram 400 describes a device according to the invention, which allows an extended processing of a query by both a piece of information about another user who has asked a query of the same category is evaluated, and also the query is also fed to an information database. The device 400 receives a search request 412 of a first user (USER 1) who searches 112 . 112 ' or 212 according to the 1 or 2 equivalent. The search query 412 is doing both a search request user mappers 420 as well as an information database requester 430 fed. The search request user mapper 420 essentially corresponds to the query recipient 110 , the categorizer 120 and the communication partner determiner 130 the device 100 according to 1 and thus provides information 432 that shows which users have asked a query whose category is the same as a search query 412 assigned category. The information 432 describes, for example, a first user USER 1 and a second user USER 2, analogous to the example according to the 1 ,

The Information Database Query 430 receives as well as the search request user mappings 420 the search query 412 and generates a query 440 to an information database 442 , The information database 442 includes, for example, a link between search terms and information sources. For example, the information database may include a directory of Internet addresses that correspond to a search query of the data query 440 contain relevant relevant information. Similarly, the information database 442 also directly contain, for example, textual information or multimedia information corresponding to a search term of the database query 440 assigned. A query response 444 that in response to the database query 440 the information database 442 Thus, for example, includes Internet addresses, text documents, multimedia documents or the content of Internet addresses, text documents or multimedia documents. The Information Database Query 430 thus represents the contents of the database query response 444 , possibly in edited form, as information 450 to disposal. The information 450 Thus, for example, a list of entries of the information database 442 represent, as exemplified in the 4 is shown.

An information provider 460 receives both the information 432 as well as the information 450 , The information provider 460 Incidentally, it is designed to provide the information 432 . 450 to combine with each other, for example, an electronic description 462 the combined information 432 . 450 to create. The information provider 460 for example, may be designed to the description 462 in any content description language such as HTML, SHTML, UML, WML, or any other known content description language that enables a description of electronic content. It is preferred that the description 462 also includes information regarding optical formatting, but this is not required.

The description 462 includes, for example, as shown in the graph of 4 illustrates results of the information database query 440 or a representation 464 the information 450 , The description 462 further comprises, summarized in a document or a group of related documents, connected by at least one cross-reference, a representation of the information 432 , In other words, both the information 432 as well as the information 450 are in a document or a group of related documents contained.

For the presentation of information 432 There are several possibilities that can be used together or alternatively, and are described below.

For example, the description 462 a reference 466 on a communication platform for communication with a user who has made a search of the same category. The reference may indicate, for example, an electronic address under which access to the communication platform can take place. The reference 466 may further comprise an authorization tag informing the recipient of the description 462 allows access to the communication platform. Furthermore, the reference 466 be designed to interact with executable program code (for example, a script). The communication platform can be, for example, a text-based chat room, an audio chat room or an audiovisual chat room, but also an electronic discussion forum.

The description 462 may also be a description of an input field 468 include that allows the first user to enter a message for transmission to the second user. The input field 468 may further include functionality to send the input message to the second user immediately or at the request of the first user. Alternatively, the input field 468 be designed to send the input message to the second user USER 2 through the intermediary of an intermediary server. The input field 468 Incidentally, it may be configured to interact with executable program code that controls a flow of communication with the second user, directly or via an intermediary server. For the purpose of communication with the second user, the input field 468 or the executable program code associated with the input field comprises, for example, a communication address of the second user or a user identifier of the second user.

Furthermore, the description 462 a description of a display field 470 (or the content displayed in the display panel), so that the display panel 470 is designed or is driven to represent one of the second user USER 2, possibly with the interposition of a server, sent or transmitted message to the first user USER 1. Also to the display field 470 can the description 462 Instructions or executable instructions containing a playback of the message sent by the second user USER 2 in the display panel 470 enable or support.

The description 462 Furthermore, the description of a communication address 472 of the second user USER 2 include the information provider 460 for example, with knowledge of the information 432 can derive from a database. Alternatively, the description 462 also an anonymized communication address 474 of the second user USER 2, which in turn is the information provider 460 based on the information 432 the description 462 adds.

The information provider 460 can also be based on the information 432 and possibly additional information from a database an electronic message 480 send USER 1 to the first user who indicates to the first user USER 1 that the second user USER 2 has made a search query in the same category as the first user USER 1. The corresponding electronic message may also indicate an opportunity to contact between the first user USER 1 and the second user USER 2 included. For example, the electronic message 480 a communication address of the second user USER 2 or an anonymous communication address of the second user USER 2 include.

Alternatively or additionally, the information provider 460 be further designed to use the information in an analogous manner 432 and possibly additional information from a database an electronic message 490 send to the second user USER 2, which informs the second user USER 2 that the first user USER 1 has made a search query of the same category as the second user USER 2. The electronic message 490 Furthermore, the second user USER 2 may indicate a possibility of establishing contact with the first user USER 1 and optionally include, for example, a communication address of the first user USER 1 or an anonymized communication address of the first user USER 1.

It should be noted that the generation of electronic messages 480 . 490 as well as the description 462 alternatively or together can be done. In other words, it may just be the description 462 , only the electronic message 480 or just the electronic message 490 through the information provider 460 can be generated, or it can be any combination of electronic messages 480 . 490 and the description 462 be generated.

5 shows a schematic representation of a flow at an invitation (E) of chat participants from a knowledge area and a Wis transfer (WT) of participants or all participants via a communication platform. The graphic representation of the 5 is in its entirety with 500 designated.

The graphic representation 500 shows a plurality of knowledge carriers that belong to a knowledge cluster XGA ( 510 ) assigned. The knowledge cluster XGA ( 510 ) can be assigned to the knowledge cluster XGA ( 324 ) according to the graph 300 of the 3 correspond. A group 520 of knowledge carriers is the knowledge cluster XGA ( 510 ). The group 520 includes, for example, users with user identifications 4655, 12566, and 30032. In other words, the group 520 comprises a plurality of users (in the given example 3), wherein an analysis of related search queries (for example, search queries 320 . 330 . 340 ) has been determined that the corresponding users search queries 320 . 330 . 340 on the knowledge cluster XGA ( 510 ), which forms a category of search queries. In other words, the users of the group 520 users form knowledge carriers in relation to the knowledge cluster XGA ( 510 ).

In response to the finding that the group 520 more than one user, that is to say that more than one user, for example within a predetermined time interval, has made search queries which belong to the knowledge cluster XGA (FIG. 510 ), which forms a category, are assigned, the device according to the invention opens a communication platform 530 , With the opening of the communication platform 530 , which may be formed for example by a chat room or discussion room or chat room, the device according to the invention sends invitations E to the users of the group 520 For example, users with user ID 4655, 12566, and 30032.

Between the mentioned users, who also with 540 . 542 and 544, then finds using the communication platform 530 or the chat room 530 a transfer of knowledge called WT.

6 shows a flowchart of a method according to the invention according to an embodiment of the present invention. The inventive method is in its entirety with 600 designated. The procedure 600 includes in a first step 610 receiving a search request from a first user. The procedure 600 further comprises in a second step 620 associating the search query with a category of a plurality of different categories. A third step 630 includes finding a second user who has made a search query associated with the same category as the first user's search query. A fourth step 640 further comprises providing information to the first user that the second user exists who has made a search request in the same category, and / or providing information to the second user that the first user exists that has a search request of the same Category has made.

The procedure 600 according to the 6 Furthermore, it can be extended to include all those steps which, with regard to the devices according to the invention 100 . 200 . 400 or with regard to 3 or 5 have been described.

In summary let yourself Thus, hold that it is an essential thought of the present Invention is, people with the same field of interest or knowledge (also known as the category of a search query) based on an analysis their search queries in a search engine. In In other words, the present invention enables communication between People or users whose search queries belong to the same category assigned.

In a search engine previously unrecorded or difficult to find Knowledge can thus be exchanged through an exchange of knowledge, for example one Communication in the form of a chat or an electronic chat or an electronic discussion, of the knowledge carriers Accessible to users be made. In other words, the present invention enables one Knowledge exchange of knowledge carriers or users, making all such knowledge accessible to all users becomes that of a conventional one electronic search engine or using a conventional electronic search engine is not available because it for example not in electronically accessible form, but only as electronically not directly comprehensible knowledge the human user or user exists.

in the Under the present invention it has been found that Analysis of search queries of the users of a search engine frequently closed a particular area of interest or knowledge of the requesting can be. Depending on the user, this can range from "no knowledge", to "partial knowledge", to relatively "comprehensive" Knowledge "in one range of topics.

If different users have a certain amount of knowledge in a subject area, then it is likely that this does not always coincide in all aspects with the knowledge of others in this area. This fact can be exploited to increase knowledge about the respective topics through communication or a knowledge exchange of the users or knowledge carriers together territory as each user would have alone available. In addition to being able to easily obtain knowledge from other users, it is also conceivable that knowledge is generated through communication with other users, which is not yet in a search index of the search engine, and by this approach only to a user Can be made available. In other words, it is possible, for example, to generate knowledge by communication of several users, for example in the search index or, for example, in the information database 442 the search engine (eg the information database querier 430 ) is not included yet.

In a particular embodiment of the present invention, therefore, information that arises during communication between users may be related to the information database 442 to be added. For this purpose, for example, the device 400 using a user interface to give users the opportunity to gain new knowledge, for example by entering entries in an input field of the information database 442 add. Furthermore, alternatively, the information database 442 the entire information exchange, for example, between the first user and the second user of the information database 442 Add. When adding the information database 442 or an associated database control furthermore extract search terms from the communication of the first user with the second user and thus access to the knowledge on the basis of an information database query 440 to enable.

If through clever analysis of the search queries of the users of the search engine a link the user over common knowledge areas or subject areas, which are characterized by an assignment of the Search queries can be determined in categories produced, and Users also have an exchange of knowledge about the common communication platform (for example a text chat or an AV Chat or Audiovisual Chat) allows will, so can the users in this way more and / or easier knowledge or information get over that classic search functionality a search engine.

With In other words, the present invention thus provides a solution to the problem or the task that a gain of knowledge or Information with a conventional search engine often expensive or time consuming is and not the desired Result leads. Some information is available on the traditional search engine itself after intensive and / or long search in a search index at all not available.

The The present invention thus provides a solution to the aforementioned problem by: a link the context of search queries from different users of a Search engine performed is a common audiovisual chat (AV chat) or a Provide text chat for knowledge sharing. This may allow one faster and / or easier access to knowledge as a question can be addressed to a human person. Furthermore, this allows Part of the concept also provides access to the search index unrecognized knowledge, however, that other users of the search engine can be known.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the search queries arriving at a search engine are analyzed according to certain systematic criteria in order to be able to establish relationships between the searched terms with regard to their belonging to a specific knowledge area ("knowledge cluster"). In other words, a membership in a specific field of knowledge is expressed by the fact that a search request is assigned to a specific category or is assigned by the categorizer. If search queries can be unambiguously assigned to a knowledge area, for example, an anonymous user identifier is stored in this knowledge area, for example from the 3 is apparent. In other words, it is determined that a search request of a given user is uniquely assignable to a category, an (anonymous or non-anonymous) user identification or user ID of the particular user is stored in a database such that an association between the particular user and the corresponding category is possible. Details of said functionality have been made, for example, with reference to an update of the database table 140 in the context of the device 100 according to 1 described.

Knowledge areas or categories can be predefined or dynamically defined from the search criteria of the users (ie at runtime). In other words, the search query is not one in a database or database table 140 can be assigned to existing category, the device according to the invention based on the search query (ie at runtime) generate a new category, such as a database update, which includes an association between a category and associated keywords (for example, described using the database tables 230 . 240 ).

Once a knowledge area (or a category) already has a knowledge carrier (or a user who searches a search in the category ge has), which is reflected in the fact that a user ID is entered for the knowledge area or the category, then in the case of a renewed search query, which is relevant for this knowledge area, from a server or from the device according to the invention between the users a communication platform (eg in the form of a chat room or chat room) are set up. The users (that is, for example, those users who have made search queries that are assigned to the same category) are thereby informed, for example, in an appropriate form about the state (that is to say about the establishment of a communication platform or a chat room). For example, for the purpose of information, a message is displayed in a browser in which the results of the search query are output. In other words, the device according to the invention is designed to provide information to an information viewer (or browser) of a user that results in the information viewing program issuing a message indicating that a communication platform has become a knowledge area (or category) Search query) exists or has been opened.

These Message or "invitation" poses simultaneously an authorized access to the communication platform. In other words, the viewing program or the browser can request a reference from the device according to the invention, or link that allows a user to to register with the communication platform. The reference or Link can receive an authorization information, from which the communication platform by checking the authorization information can determine that a user is trying to connect to the communication platform to log in, is authorized.

All Users who thus follow the said "invitation" can now use the communication platform and engage with others in their respective field of knowledge change.

in the The following is an example of the inventive concept for processing a search query. It is assumed here by way of example a user A (representing the first user or USER 1) he looks for an answer to a question, as he does in a word processor or a word processor to enable a spell checker can. Therefore, user A exemplifies the terms "Microsoft and Spell Check" in the search engine and thus defines, for example, a search query. The search engine analyzes the search query and assigns it, for example, to a knowledge area "word processing: Microsoft Word "too. For example, a user B, ie a second user or USER 2 searches an answer to the question of how he in his word processing the Italicize the font. He therefore gives, for example, the Terms "Word and italics "in the search engine one. For example, user B defines a search request. The search engine therefore analyzes the search query and assigns it the field of knowledge "word processing: Microsoft Word "too.

There Both users submit their request or their search requests in quick succession have entered (ie within a predetermined time interval), they are (for example, from the search engine or the device according to the invention) registered as "at the same time online". Both is then immediately, for example (or with a temporal Delay) an invitation to an exchange of knowledge (on an existing or newly built) communication platform signals.

It It is further assumed that both users of the offer or the Invitation to electronic communication via the communication platform For example, as they do in normal search results found no answer to their question on the first pages. In other words, the search engine provides, for example, alongside the invitation to electronic communication via the communication platform even more search results by adding the search query to a Database is passed based on the search query associated Information or references to information (for example, references to Web pages that contain a representation of information) provides. Thus, the inventive device or search engine combines the Search in a database with a classification of searches of various Users to categories and a provision of information, the one communication between users, the search queries of the same Category.

To take So both users offer for electronic communication with each other via the communication platform on, so can the two users their respective question or query to the other Provide participants or users of the communication platform. At the Ask the relevant question to the other participant of the communication platform Thus, for example, both receive immediately and without further detours an answer from her human communication partner.

It It should be noted that the determination of a field of knowledge or subject area of the search query of the above-described assignment the search query corresponds to a category, for example obtainable with a database request as described above.

in the The following are the relevant characteristics of the inventive concept or the device according to the invention summarized again. A significant advantage of the inventive concept is that it is made possible by the inventive concept, Users, or people, who are interested in the same topic interested in bringing in direct communication with each other. In other words, due to an analysis or categorization the search queries of the at least two users can be determined whether the searches of at least two users are the same Category or topic. Meets this To, the users will be informed by an electronic message set another user who has a search request the same category or topic Has. Furthermore, at least one of the two users is sent information, which puts him in a position to engage in direct electronic communication to connect with the other user. Thus, it allows a user who did not put a certain search query into the search engine receives only a machine-generated search result, but also still in the possibility is put into communication with a human communication partner to step. By a human communication partner becomes a Question (or query) usually better understood (as by a electronic system) and can be answered faster as in a classic search engine search.

Further An advantage of the present invention is that it is anonymous can be realized, that is, a communication between the two Users who have searched in the same category without revealing an actual identity have to. Rather, by the device according to the invention an anonymization take place, for example, by the device according to the invention to the users anonymized user ID and maintains a database that a transcription the anonymized user ID to actual user ID allowed. The device according to the invention can then communicate from the first user to the second Forward users, for example, the first user only the knows anonymous identifiers of the second user, and wherein the device according to the invention the anonymous user ID of the second user in the actual User ID of the second user converts and thus one of the first user using the anonymized user ID sent message to the second user using the actual User ID of the second user forwards.

at a further embodiment may the communication between the device according to the invention and the users encrypted done. Alternatively, in addition also the communication between the different users is encrypted, while however, the communication between a user and the search engine or the device according to the invention without encryption can be done.

The Communication between two users who search queries the same Category or to the same subject area, for example as text chat or text discussion, audio chat or audio discussion and / or take place as an AV Chat or Audiovisual Discussion.

Further can the device of the invention in certain circumstances Include or include a free expert. For example can the free expert be a user, associated with one or more categories of search queries, and, for example, ready to communicate with search query site users.

If the knowledge area is not clearly defined by a search query can optionally be a selection of suitable Be proposed areas of knowledge. Following the above example For example, if the user can be asked: Does your question refer to "Operating System: Microsoft Windows or Word Processor: Microsoft Word "? Furthermore, an immediate consolidation of the knowledge carriers can take place, or the merge the knowledge carrier can be delayed. In other words, a user can, for example indicate that he will also be sharing knowledge at a later date with other knowledge carriers interested in this topic, if there are no others at the moment Users are registered in this knowledge area.

For the user the device according to the invention thus, there is the advantage that a cumbersome search on the internet, where this problem could perhaps be discussed, deleted. The Search engine according to the invention can thus indirectly, over the knowledge of their users, provide information that previously in their classic search index does not occur.

It It should also be noted that the inventive concept both as a device and as a method can. Furthermore, the inventive concept by a computer program accomplished become.

The concept or method according to the invention can, depending on the circumstances, in Hardware or be implemented in software. The implementation may be on a digital storage medium, such as a floppy disk, CD, DVD, or flash memory medium, in ROM, PROM, EPROM, or EEPROM, with electronically readable control signals that may interact with a programmable computer system such that the appropriate Procedure is performed. In general, the invention thus also consists in a computer program product with program code stored on a machine-readable carrier for carrying out the method according to the invention, when the computer program product runs on a computer. In other words, the invention can be realized as a computer program with a program code for carrying out the method when the computer program runs on a computer.

Consequently In the end it can therefore be stated that the device according to the invention the possibility an efficient search or an efficient exchange of information creates between different users based on the users on a categorization of searches offers the possibility of having others Users to enter into an electronic communication, the one Search query of the same category.

Claims (17)

Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) to process a search query ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ; 412 ), with the following features: a polling receiver ( 110 for receiving a search request from a first user (USER 1); a categorizer ( 120 ; 200 ; 312 . 322 . 332 . 342 ) to assign the search query to a category (Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4; 314 . 324 . 512 ) of a plurality of different categories; a communication partner determiner ( 130 ) for finding a second user (USER 2) who has made a search request associated with the same category; and an information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) for providing information ( 152 ; 462 . 480 ) to the first user that the second user exists, who has made a search request of the same category, or to provide information ( 154 ; 490 ) to the second user that the first user who made a search request of the same category exists. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to claim 1, wherein the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) in response to a recognition that the first user (USER 1) and the second user (USER 2) are seeking ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ; 412 ) belonging to the same category (Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4; 314 . 324 . 512 ), the first user or the second user have information ( 152 . 154 ; 462 . 480 . 490 ; E), which includes a notification of a way to establish electronic communication with each other. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to claim 1 or 2, further adapted to provide a communication platform ( 468 . 470 ; 530 ), by which the first user (USER 1) and the second user (USER 2) can communicate with each other electronically, and in which the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is arranged to give the first user and / or the second user a message ( 152 . 154 ; 462 . 480 . 490 ; E), which is designed to allow access to the communication platform, or to authorize the first user and / or the second user to access the communication platform. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to claim 3, which is adapted to use as the communication platform an electronic chat room ( 468 . 470 ; 530 ), via which the first user (USER 1) and the second user (USER 2) can communicate with one another, and in which the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is arranged to provide the first user and the second user with messages ( 152 . 154 ; 462 . 480 . 490 ; E) containing a reference to the electronic chat room. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to claim 4, wherein the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is arranged to transmit authorization labels to the first user (USER 1) and the second user (USER 2), which authorize the first user and the second user to access the electronic chat room ( 468 . 470 ; 530 ) authorize. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, adapted to provide the first user (USER 1) with a communication platform ( 468 . 470 ; 530 ) to provide the information that the second user (USER 2), the a query ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ; 412 ) of the same category (Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4; 314 . 324 . 512 ), or to provide the second user with information by providing the communication platform that the first user who made a search request of the same category exists. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is adapted to the first user (USER 1) the information that the second user (USER 2), which contains a search query ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ; 412 ) of the same category (Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4; 314 . 324 . 512 ), in that the information provider supplies the first user with information about an electronic communication address of the second user, or in which the information provider is designed to give the second user the information that the first user exists, that is a search request of the same Category provided by the information provider provides the second user information about an electronic communication address of the first user. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a message router and an identification database, wherein the identification database is adapted to store an association between anonymized electronic communication addresses and actual electronic communication addresses, and wherein the identification database is an anonymized electronic communication address of the first User, an anonymous electronic communication address of the second user, an actual electronic communication address of the first user and an actual electronic communication address of the second user, and wherein the message router is adapted to receive an electronic message with an anonymized electronic communication address as the destination address, an actual electronic communication address associated with the anonymized electronic communication address from the identifier read out the electronic database with the actual electronic communication address read out and in which the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is adapted to deliver to the first user the anonymized electronic communication address of the second user, or to provide the second user with the anonymized electronic communication address of the first user. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to one of claims 1 to 8, in which the communication partner determiner ( 130 ) is designed to find out if the request receiver ( 110 ) the search queries ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ) of the first user (USER 1) and the second user (USER 2) has received within a predetermined sub-interval, and in which the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is designed to provide the information ( 152 . 154 ; 462 . 480 . 490 ) only if the request recipient has received the first user's search query and the second user's search query associated with the same category within the predetermined time interval. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9, in which the communication partner determiner ( 130 ) to determine whether the second user (USER 2) is available for communication and in which the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is designed to provide the information ( 152 . 154 ; 462 . 480 . 490 ) only if the communication partner determiner indicates that the second user (USER 2) is available for communication. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to claim 10, wherein the communication partner determiner ( 130 ) is arranged to indicate that the second user (USER 2) is available for communication when the second user searches within a predetermined interval ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ). Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising an information database ( 442 ) with a plurality of entries (entry 1, entry 2) that refer to various possible search queries ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ), and further comprising an information database interrogator ( 430 ) arranged to search the information database for entries relating to the search request of the first user (USER 1) and in which the information provider ( 150 ; 460 ) is arranged to provide information to the first user in addition to the information that the second user (USER 2) who made the search query of the same category exists ( 464 ) based on at least one entry of the information database relating to the first user's search request. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to one of claims 1 to 12, in which the categorizer ( 120 ; 200 ; 312 . 322 . 332 . 342 ) is designed around the search query ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ) based on one or more words in the search query for at least one category (Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4; 314 . 324 . 512 ). Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to claim 13, wherein the categorizer ( 120 ; 200 ; 312 . 322 . 332 . 342 ) is arranged to provide a user (USER 1, USER 2) with a list of categories (Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4; 314 . 324 . 512 ) to which the search request is assignable, to input from the user a decision to which category of the list of categories the search request is to be assigned, and to assign the search request to a category based on the decision. Contraption ( 100 ; 300 . 500 ; 400 ) according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the communication tion partner determinants ( 130 ) is designed to issue a query to a specific user as to whether the particular user subsequently contacted another user who in the future requested ( 112 . 122 ' . 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ), if the communication partner determiner finds out that no other user currently exists or is ready for communication who made a search query of the same category, and if the communication partner determiner is further configured to do so certain users depending on a response read by the user into a database ( 140 ) that are available or not to be included in the communication partner determiner for finding users who have made searches of the same category. Procedure ( 600 ) to edit a search query ( 112 . 112 '; 310 . 320 . 330 . 340 ; 412 ), with the following steps: Receiving ( 610 ) a search request from a first user (USER 1); Assign ( 620 ) of the search query for a category (Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4; 314 . 324 . 512 ) of a plurality of different categories; Find out ( 630 ) a second user (USER 2) who has made a search query which is assigned to the same category; And deliver ( 640 ) information to the first user that the second user exists who has made a search request of the same category, or supplying information to the second user that the first user who made a search request of the same category exists. Computer program with a program code for carrying out the Process according to claim 16 when the computer program runs on a computer.