JP2004518233A - System and method for retrieving information using spatially selectable features - Google Patents

Abstract

An information retrieval system and method using spatially selectable features.
A system of the present invention includes a search interface (10), a map interface (12), a result table interface (14), and a laso (lasso) tool for selecting a search area. 16). The method of the present invention provides a search interface (100), provides a map interface (102), provides a result table interface (104), and a lasso for selecting a search area. ) Provide a tool (106) with each step.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to information retrieval systems, and more particularly to an information retrieval system and method using spatially selectable features.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Location is the basic and uniform element that humans use to organize the “spatial awareness” in the world, but the Internet has failed to provide high-performance spatial search and search capabilities. Yes.
[0003]
Traditional means of finding local content include reading local newspapers, searching occupational phone books, listening to the radio, watching billboards, and watching local TV announcements and advertisements. On today's Internet, a number of regional content can be found using “Yellow Page” listing services, city content sites, regional portals and ISPs.
[0004]
However, these services offer a limited regional coverage and are mainly concentrated in metropolitan areas. All of these content sites provide an element of information that can be used, but what is needed is a way to provide data continuity across all categories across the world. It is also advantageous that the average user can add regional content to these databases.
[0005]
Finding local content quickly and easily on the Internet today is a laborious, complex, and inconsistent experience. Internet users are usually required to provide specific Zip code or other location information to perform a search for local content.
[0006]
In addition, to find any particular regional content, the user is required to enter a known geographic, postal, or street address to begin the search. This prohibits the user from performing a “real world” search where the address or zip code is unknown. A system that finds regional content at any point in the international geographical spread was not possible.
[0007]
Current Internet mapping and regional search capabilities are limited to static data, limited to limited geographic regions such as countries, and do not provide an optimal geo-location search range for each record. Normally, searching on the Internet is performed by selecting a predetermined classification of information by sub-category. The problem is that the resulting search catalog size requires time consuming scans by the user through myriad categories and / or large numbers of irrelevant results.
[0008]
For years, the Geographic Information System (GIS) has provided tools for generating, manipulating and managing spatial data. Government agencies and commercial data vendors use GIS extensively to produce and maintain map data used for location services. The merchant provides a street-centerline data set that includes address and street name data required for global encoding and routing applications. Location services incorporating GIS tools allow a wide range of spatial transactions that can be provided in a meaningful way.
[0009]
Some commercially available database management systems (DBMS) currently include basic spatial data management capabilities that provide limited location services. DBMSs are specialized in managing and storing all types of data, including geographic data, and are optimized for storing and retrieving data. Many GISs rely on DBMS for this purpose, but without direct access to the foundation of a robust GIS, they are not competitive in terms of performance, flexibility, and scalability.
[0010]
Distributing geographic information over the Internet allows real-time display and integration of data from around the world. Natural desktop GIS, Internet mapping, and natural extensions of related applications are popularized by various sites that deliver maps to end users via browsers. To date, however, mapping on the Internet is primarily a cartographic job, with little ability to search for true information and add new content.
[0011]
Computer desktop mapping systems use a map paradigm to organize data and user interfaces. Such systems focus on creating a map that is coupled to a database containing relevant information. However, most desktop mapping systems have limited data management, spatial analysis, or customization capabilities.
[0012]
Computer aided design (CAD) systems are being developed to create designs and create plans. CAD systems require that parts with fixed properties be combined to create the entire structure. These systems are characterized by a few rules that specify how parts can be assembled or should be assembled, and include very limited analytical capabilities. Although some CAD systems have been extended to support maps, they usually have limited utilities for analyzing and managing large geographic databases.
[0013]
Remote sensing is a technology and science that measures the earth using sensors such as cameras or GPS receivers mounted on airplanes or satellites. These sensors include specialized capabilities for collecting data in the form of images or data streams and manipulating, analyzing and visualizing these data.
For the reasons described above, there is a need for improved information retrieval systems and methods.
[0014]
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an information retrieval system and method using spatially selectable features. The system includes a search interface, a map interface, a results table interface, and a lasso tool for search area selection. The method includes the steps of providing a search interface, providing a map interface, providing a result table interface, and providing a lasso tool for selecting a search area.
[0015]
In one aspect of the invention, rollout map control is provided to optimize the use of limited display space, and viewfinder control is provided to provide the ability to pan (pan) the map. And a custom space driving (driving) direction is provided to display a list of routes on the map. In one aspect of the invention, a globally possible message and conferencing module is provided to apply spatial features to each member of a conference or message service, and a member selects with other members. Communication.
[0016]
The present invention eliminates the obstacles to finding local content quickly and easily. The present invention provides specific zip codes and other location information to initiate a search for regional content by providing a simple “point and click” input to initiate a search for any location in the world. Solve the problem you need. The present invention delivers globally targeted regional content that is comprehensive, targeted, and customizable to either wired or wireless Internet devices based on the user's actual or preferred location anywhere in the world Provides reliability and scalability.
[0017]
Other aspects, advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of specific embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0018]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present invention relates to an information retrieval system and method using spatially selectable features. As shown in FIG. 1, the system includes a search interface 10, a map interface 12, a result table interface 14, and a lasso tool 16 for selecting a search area. As shown in FIG. 2, the method provides a search interface 100, provides a map interface 102, provides a result table interface 104, and a lasso for selecting a search area. Providing a tool 106, including steps.
[0019]
Search interface
A polygon search module (PSM) that allows the definition and storage of any earth space polygon, including a myriad of “sides” into a polygon defined by the appropriate longitude and latitude coordinates of each “side”. PSM can be used to define a search area for any point located within the boundary of a polygon.
[0020]
The PSM includes an automatic crop engine (ACE). The ACE is the current search location and search whenever a search is performed based on a defined PSM under the extension of the searchable range using a dynamic search range module (DSRM) as described below. Based on the region, a radial search range is created, in which the polygon is a geospatial subset, and any results that exist outside the polygon are automatically removed or “cut”. PSM extends the standard radial search search algorithm to any geospatial polygon such as any region, region, state or country.
[0021]
The present invention includes the ability to create a map based on a given longitude / latitude or city, Zip code, state, or country. The search results are provided with a map linked in tabular form with a platform that allows the user to add information to the georeference database. All information in the application's database is tied to the exact latitude and longitude and can be displayed on electronic maps of various sizes over the Internet.
[0022]
A dynamic category module (DCM) creates a dynamic set of categories to provide to the user depending on the current map settings. DCM automatically identifies any categories with no content for the current map settings. In addition, DCM performs a spatial count of records in each eligible category included by the current map settings. Thus, the user is provided with a qualified list of categories associated with the specified map settings, and each eligible category in the tree structure is displayed along with the number of valid records contained within that category. Here, the number displayed includes any “children” category record.
[0023]
DCM provides the end user with a set of manageable and relevant categories for the map settings selected by the end user, rather than a large and unrelated list. That is, the search is faster and more efficient. Whenever the user selects a new location to initiate a search, DSRM evaluates all data around the geospatial specified location and searches for this location and range in all appropriate categories. An appropriate default search range is automatically determined to provide results.
[0024]
In addition, DSRM is used whenever keyboard search is invoked. DSRM ensures that the relevant results are returned if the relevant data exists at a certain geospatial location. DSRM ensures a search result for a set of positions that are closest to a user-specified position, regardless of what position and range is initially specified for the search by the user.
[0025]
The Internet Database Link Control Module (IDLCM) takes the database content from any DBMS by automatically redirecting search requests originating from any Internet search engine and Automatically access information contained in the database. The IDLCM automatically directs a search request for any daily list or category to a regional search result for the desired location and category reference by means of an IDLCM result link displayed to the user in the search engine results list. IDLCM creates this functionality by automatically generating a special web page with embedded megatags and other information for each record in the record set that the database manager wishes to access on the Internet. To do.
[0026]
The software automatically directs search requests for related searches from any Internet search engine to the key or index value of a record from a database connected to the Internet. IDLCM allows any search engine to generate an appropriate reference link to the desired database record and to automatically display this link reference in the search engine results list. The reference link on the search engine results list itself points to an automatically generated database engine stored by the IDLCM on the target database and record specific set of web pages and Universal Resource Locator (URL). Generated from a search engine that scans and indexes. As an example of using this method, end users are linked to relevant sites where regional content information and appropriate GIS tools are available, and a database of regional content information is automatically provided to all Internet search engines. Can do.
[0027]
Search results, ranges, and result points are arranged and displayed in the map frame. The display of the lasso gives an intuitive range ring on the map. A lasso defines a spatial proximity component of a search and is a circle with a center (x, y) and a radius r placed on a map. The system displays multiple results as a set of independent “points” on the map and accumulates the overlapping results into one “point”, but when the user clicks on the “point”, the “point” It has a feature that the user can select from a pop-up window that displays records belonging to.
[0028]
In addition to this, this interface is zooming control, position finder or “geographical dictionary”, range or laso size control, viewfinder to fine-tune the current position, “laso center” Provides important navigation and search criteria control, such as control, “Lasso Placement” control, and map movement control. The search is performed using a detailed and high quality world map with a zoom level down to the street level and a world location dictionary that provides names of cities and places around the world. The present invention automatically connects a globally encoded information database to an associated Internet web page and provides simultaneous, integrated information search and retrieval from the database and the web.
[0029]
In one embodiment of the invention, the search question can be initiated either by entering a keyword directly or by clicking on any category item. Search queries can be performed either by user keyword entry or by selecting from a customized “clickable” category tree. Only categories with content are displayed. The search can be performed in an information directory and / or within a website.
[0030]
Minimum range (global space distance) to find and search for a specified minimum number of search results for a particular set or classification of records stored in the Earth Positioning Database where each record has longitude and latitude attributes An automatic range determination module (ARDM) that automatically detects ARDM is an input having the setting of the longitude and latitude of the position where the search is started.
[0031]
Options in DCM can remove empty categories from the category search tree or display them as “gray”. In addition, if an unselected category is selected, it has another option to use the ARDM function to search for records for this category by automatically extending the search scope appropriately.
[0032]
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the search interface provides geospatial indexing of records beyond the standard siege area, and for ranges beyond the availability of the standard search area of that record and It further includes an extended range record module (ERRM) that allows searching and searching for geospatial searches for such records starting at a point.
[0033]
Usually, the search is based on location and search range or distance. This procedure defines a regional content search for information such as organization and business located within a defined search area. An extended range attribute for any single record can be set, and EPRM will appear within a suitable geospatial search using that range and any location where the record ranges from 1 meter to the world To ensure that.
[0034]
However, there may be important cases where information and / or records should be “searchable” for search locations and ranges that do not include the physical location with which the information record is associated. For example, Florist A would want to sell flowers to anyone who explores / inhabits within a 50 km radius of his store location. If someone at a distance of 35 km is searching for a flower shop within a radius of 10 km, such a search does not include flower shop A. If a person searches for a pet store in the area within 5 km and finds nothing, the present invention automatically further expands the search until one or more records are found or a predetermined threshold is reached.
[0035]
In one embodiment of the present invention, a dynamic filter (DF) automatically detects a user's profile depending on user preferences, user-specified category filter classes, and the category structure returned by DCM. To do. A category filter class is one of several preset subsets of a master category structure designed by a system designer to reflect the interest of a particular group of categories. DF generates a dynamically fully customized set of categories for the search based on the current user's map settings, thus ensuring that all user settings and preferences are applied to the DCM.
[0036]
The parameters of the DSRM can be changed dynamically when the module is called to match the user's preferences in terms of the category of most interest. The DSRM parameter can be adjusted to specify the limit range and the minimum returned result set. In addition, users can create many “favorite folders” that can record the details of the current search performed by the user, and specific records that can be used to automatically search and search for relevant data in future search sessions. Maintaining the details of the results can be included.
[0037]
“Cookie” technology can be used to provide a powerful and personalized experience by storing information about individual user preferences and previous choices. For example, cookies can hold keyword or category search criteria and / or user search location information, and can customize the business to tailor information and advertisement delivery goals. The present invention allows easy customization of mapping icons and result prioritization to reflect the needs of specific business promotions and sponsors.
[0038]
In one embodiment of the invention, the search interface includes a circle to indicate an area that provides information about it. In one embodiment of the present invention, the multiple colored circles comprise concentric rings that are equally spaced to form a “golden” style or a laso. Each color ring forms a simple geographic choice where the physical area increases as the radius increases. The results found for a particular question are represented as points in these rings.
[0039]
Map interface
Multiple results that make the search area selected by the user graphically and automatically placed on the map so that the user can easily determine the relative distance from the center of the search position and the distance to each other visually A semi-transparent target (STT) is embedded in each map to provide a visual reference to the user that provides a visual reference to the points. The semi-transparent aspect of the STT can easily identify all of the map details below and above. The earth position of the device selected by the user or the current device along with the currently selected or determined search range is recorded, and this data is dynamically provided to other software objects.
[0040]
An STT automatic and dynamic positioning module (STTAPM) is included to allow the user to click anywhere on the map display to automatically reposition the STT to the position indicated by the mouse pointer. STTAPM also automatically repositions the STT whenever the user selects a new location from the place name dictionary or selects a previously used location.
[0041]
The resulting symbol, usually a point on the map, is a boundary submodule that determines whether one or more result points overlap to cause visual confusion and poor data communication to the user ( BSM). If this happens, the built-in optimizer picks and joins the points to remove the overlap, and consequently increases the size of the points to make one point visually. It is displayed reflecting that it is larger than.
[0042]
Whenever the user clicks on the appropriate record in the results list or the corresponding “point” on the map, a detailed page for any result is displayed without changing the display of the map / result list below. Provided by “pop-up”. This pop-up page contains a level location map showing the exact location of the record, address and contact information, links to corresponding web pages, if any, and other documents and information that the record owner can add.
[0043]
The BSM parameters are fully adjustable to meet the design requirements for spacing requirements and aesthetics. Since the entire module set is recalculated when the map is drawn, movement, zooming, and / or relocation of the map data dynamically re-evaluates the size and position of the resulting points of the map.
[0044]
As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment of the present invention, a micro map module (MMM) links a CAD file or scanned image with global spatial position control and map link control to create a shopping center, exhibition. Provide high-resolution maps and / or integrated displays of the interior of an accurate range of centers, regular markets, manufacturing plants, and parks. The MMM can determine the exact location of any object or location on the micromap and can display it to the user. In order for the user to have a seamless means of “drilling down” from the digital street map into the micromap, the MMM link control can integrate the micromap with a standard digital street level display.
[0045]
In addition, the micro map zoom / movement (panning) control allows zooming and movement within the micro map in a manner that is completely similar to the zoom / movement control for a standard digital map. All map controls such as zoom, move, range and position utilize a unique rollout feature called Rollout Map Control (RMC). When the user clicks on the appropriate control, an extended control feature list window appears on the control side. The user can then select from an expanded list of features available for that control. This technology allows rollout control and its embedded feature display list to be downloaded and immediately available from the main page where the control resides, thus optimizing the use of limited display space and at the same time refreshing the screen display. Provides a full set of extended features without needing.
[0046]
Viewfinder control provides a unique means of panning the map. This “viewfinder” tool allows the user to move the main map by moving the viewfinder on a rollout index map that has a much larger geographic area than the main map. The user moves the viewfinder by pointing and clicking on the new desired position of the viewfinder. As the viewfinder moves over the index map below, the main map in the map pane refreshes to display a new map determined by the new position of the viewfinder control. The map "viewfinder" tool allows the user to move the main map by moving the viewfinder control on a rollout index map that has a much larger geographic area than the main map.
[0047]
The Custom Spatial Drive Direction Module (CSDDM) specifies a series of linked points on the map by simply clicking the appropriate location on the map with the mouse pointer, allowing the owner of the database record to pass through. Levels, zoom levels, and customized driving directions on the map display can be recorded. And a series of linked points becomes a “way” on the map. The road can then be rated according to the type of fastest, landscape or walking path.
[0048]
In addition, CSDDM allows descriptive text to be added by database record owners in adjacent boxes, adding path descriptions and other useful end-user information. CSDDM can add any number of custom “drive directions” roads to the map, and these custom roads can be stored with applicable database records. In addition, CSDDM provides an end user interface for selecting from a list of paths as shown.
[0049]
In one embodiment of the present invention, a globally possible message and conferencing module (GMCM) is included to automatically apply spatial features to each member of the conference or message so that the member is user defined. It is possible to selectively communicate with other members within the STT. In this way, the member can see the location displayed on the map of all members or any desired geographic subset of members and can select on a global space basis to communicate for the process.
[0050]
Result table interface
The result table interface (RTI) displays search results in a table format. Each result found in the table is linked to a special record point on the map. The user can examine the results by either rolling on the records in the results table or rolling the record points on the map. Each procedure produces a “hot link” with a color between the map results and the table results for a particular result, and simultaneously displays the search results in the list and the multipoint map format.
[0051]
Any search result record that occurs during the search range or “Lasso” on the map is represented in the result table below the map. The result table is color coded depending on the color of the laso ring in which the result points are found. The result is usually displayed far from the center of the laso. The results table is further hot-linked, table, distance field, list of radial distances from the center of the laso, extended range records, directory / search category labels, “next” and “return” table review controls Row click lunch, and a symbolic display associated with additional information about each record in the hot-linked “rollover” map highlighting.
[0052]
A dynamic search result update module (DSRUM) is included to generate search results that are automatically updated based on the current location of the STT when the user moves or changes the size of the STT within the map segment. Whenever the user places the STT at a new location or changes the size of the STT range, DSRUM performs an automatic background update of the search results and automatically refreshes the search results list.
[0053]
In one embodiment of the invention, the user can classify the list according to several alternative criteria, allowing the user to classify search results according to several criteria such as distance, category, and name. .
[0054]
In one embodiment of the invention, the linked rollover map / list search result highlighting feature allows the result points and rows to be displayed when the user rolls over a result point on the map or a result row on the result list. Highlighted. Rollout Small Map and Information (RTMI) feature automatically generates a “small” map and other text information associated with the result row, so that whenever a user “rolls over” a row with the mouse pointer, the result row This information is displayed on one side of This feature works in real time and is independent of the number of result rows in the result table. The small map displays the exact street level map associated with the address in the applied result row.
[0055]
The rollover feature allows the user to visually identify the location of any result by either rolling over the result on the result list or by placing the pointer over the result point on the map . Items that are rolled over are automatically highlighted on the map and the results list by changing the color at the same time. The rollover information extension automatically displays additional information on the results automatically whenever the user rolls over the corresponding “point” on the map or a row in the results list. Additional information displayed on the side of the results list includes a small street level search map and / or web connection information.
[0056]
As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment of the present invention, the system / invention can also be used in a wireless environment. GUI implementation is highly dependent on wireless device specifications and bandwidth. Maps are built into devices with higher resolution displays. Keyword search and location can be entered, or both can be determined automatically by wired connection and use of wireless location technology. A street intersection searcher can be used to identify a laso in a street intersection designation or to use an automatic location technique that increases the availability for resource limited wireless devices. In one embodiment of the invention, the wireless application can use a smart street ID that returns a short list of street intersections available to the user to select the desired item. The results can be displayed in a scrollable list, sorted by distance from the center of the laso.
[0057]
In one embodiment of the invention, the invention uses a global location advertising service to deliver locally targeted advertisements and information according to any particular location and / or demographic profile. To do. In one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention can automatically store and retrieve user preference information, such as selected location and search criteria, and allows the user to modify preference data and exists in the map area. Dynamically filter the categories that are not, and dynamically modify the category information display based on the filters that the user can select. The present invention dynamically expands the searchable range of any individual record in the earth code database to provide a specified search despite a logical regional presence within the specified search range. Allows users to automatically find records that are out of range.
[0058]
In one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention allows database record owners to create billboard “notices” that respond to the date / time automatically displayed within the regional content search results, Enables globally coded, searchable, web page presence for all businesses and organizations in major countries and markets, and the content of their records in a globally coded database by record owners And display characteristics can be enhanced.
[0059]
In one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides seamless wired and wireless capability integration, including automatic transmission and configuration of information to the wireless device along with automatic detection of the wireless device type. The present invention seamlessly integrates the wireless device's automatic location capabilities to automatically deliver region-specific results and information to end users, and the demographic profile worldwide with any user-defined region. Ring data can be generated to greatly enhance direct marketing capabilities while at the same time keeping privacy control at an increased level.
[0060]
In one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides a map navigation rollout control that provides reduced display area footprint and allows the user to augment and update the map information for personal or public use. Gives you a user-controlled map function. The present invention provides a map function and filter that allows a user to select a map display type suitable for topographic, vegetative, or interest.
[0061]
The user can define the desired search location by simply clicking on the map without any typing or by selecting from a drop-down list control. The present invention searches and finds information records and their associated websites using a single and simple search interface. The search is performed with advanced keyword combinations and provides the ability to perform a “multi-layer” search in which the search during the search is automatically performed.
[0062]
In the wireless embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a dynamic position response auto for automatically reconfiguring the position of the user's STT on the wireless device when the user's position changes while the wireless unit is moving. Includes a search module (DLSASM). The automatically rearranged STT includes a refreshed set of properties and attributes derived from other features and modules.
[0063]
In the wireless embodiment of the present invention, the Wireless Automatic Configuration Search Module (WACSM) allows the user to configure the regional search engine to match the characteristics of the wireless device from the user's wired desktop browser. . In addition, WASMM automatically downloads this configuration information along with the search preference for the user's wireless device whenever the user activates the wireless unit.
[0064]
In one embodiment of the present invention, to facilitate local search, the spatial information preference module (SIFM) causes the system to store the currently selected location on a map or from a place name dictionary so that the user can Allows you to record your favorite search position.
[0065]
Adding new information to the Internet is a bureaucratic and often threatening process for most Internet users and is usually a paid service. The present invention allows users, including private individuals, businesses and organizations, to add new content to the Internet by simply clicking on the map and posting their own information. Combined with this, it can have bulletin board features and / or calendars associated with the input.
[0066]
The present invention includes an integrated wired and wireless geospatial search solution that includes the ability to automatically load user defined information, settings and data obtained and defined from the wired side into the wireless device. This allows the user to conduct a geospatial search using both wired and wireless internet capable devices. The present invention uses the customer's location capabilities of the present invention regardless of how the customer accesses the Internet or from where information is targeted to a specific location and demographic profile. Enable transmission.
[0067]
FIG. 6 shows a concise overview of the logical architecture of the system. The “Earth Coding Service” is responsible for converting conceptual location details such as street addresses into accurate longitude / latitude values. This longitude / latitude value can be used to form a map / search request around this value. A “map service” gives a list of points drawn on the background map based on points of interest and proximity to other attribute criteria such as similarity to data categories or search strings. The “Lasso template engine” and appropriate templates are responsible for delivering an interactive interface, including drawing points on the map image background. FIG. 7 shows an overview of the system.
[0068]
The present invention provides the ability of detailed maps and regional content around the world, including a unique ability to specify a dynamically adjustable search range for each individual Earth location record. The dynamic category / content filtering capability of the present invention has the ability to display to the end user only a subset of categories and content related to the search criteria and search location specified by the user.
[0069]
The present invention allows global search engines to be global location / regional content automatically enabled by IDLCM capabilities. The present invention provides the user with the insertion and modification of globally encoded content in Internet searchable databases around the world, and allows the user to specify an exact search location without requiring address information. . The present invention allows users to create and deploy targeted advertisements and information banners / announcements to local people anywhere in the world. In experiments, the system can spatially search and find over 10,000 records in less than 0.5 seconds, providing very fast results.
[0070]
The present invention eliminates the obstacles to finding local content easily and quickly. The present invention addresses the problem of requiring specific postal codes and other location information to search for regional content by providing simple “point and click” inputs to initiate searches anywhere in the world. Resolve. The present invention provides a comprehensive, targeted and customizable global code that is reliable and scalable to any wired or wireless internet device based on the user's actual or preferred location anywhere in the world To deliver selected local content.
[0071]
Although the present invention has been described in detail with respect to certain preferred embodiments, other variations are possible. Therefore, the scope and spirit of the claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred embodiments described herein.
[Brief description of the drawings]
[Figure 1]
1 is an overall view of an information retrieval system using spatially selected features according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[Figure 2]
1 is an overall view of an information retrieval method using spatially selected features according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[Fig. 3]
The figure which shows the user interface by one embodiment of this invention.
[Fig. 4]
The figure which shows the example of a micro map.
[Figure 5]
The figure which shows the wireless use of an application.
[Fig. 6]
1 is a simplified overview of a logical architecture according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[Fig. 7]
1 is an overall view of a system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Claims (16)

An information retrieval system using spatially selectable features,
Search interface,
Map interface,
Results table interface,
A lasso tool for selecting the search area;
A system characterized by including. The system of claim 1, wherein the search interface further comprises:
A polygon search module (PSM) having an automatic clipping engine (ACE);
A dynamic search range module (DSRM);
A dynamic category module (DCM),
An internet database link control module (IDLCM);
A system characterized by including. The system of claim 1, wherein the map interface further comprises:
A translucent target (STT),
An STT automatic and dynamic positioning module (STTAPM);
Boundary sub-module (BSM),
A system characterized by including. The system of claim 1, wherein the result table interface further includes a dynamic search result update module (DSRUM). The system of claim 1, further comprising rollout map control to optimize the use of limited display space. The system of claim 1, further comprising a multi-language capability. The system of claim 1, further comprising using "cookie" technology to provide a powerful and personalized experience. The system of claim 1, further comprising map icon customization and result prioritization to reflect the needs of specific business promotions and / or sponsors. The system of claim 1, further comprising customization of the map icon, such as providing the icon as a company trademark or color scheme. The system of claim 1, further comprising a globally possible message and conferencing module to provide spatial characteristics to each member of the message or conferencing service so that the member can selectively communicate with other members. A system characterized by that. The system of claim 1, further comprising prioritization of customized results to reflect a particular desired business need such as list heading promotions, location alerts, or per-pay advertising restrictions. A system characterized by that. An information retrieval method using spatially selectable features,
(I) provide a search interface;
(Ii) provide a map interface;
(Iii) providing a result table interface;
(Iv) providing a lasso tool for selecting a search area;
A method comprising each step. An information retrieval method using spatially selectable features,
(I) define the search range;
(Ii) detecting a minimum search range necessary for searching for a specified minimum number of search results;
(Iii) indexing the search range beyond the defined search range where the record is available and the search range that is defined as the search and search record of the search started at the point;
(Iv) generate a dynamic set of categories to provide to the user depending on the current map settings;
(V) determine an appropriate default search range to ensure the provision of search results in all appropriate categories and evaluate all records;
A method comprising each step. An information retrieval system using spatially selectable features having a map interface for displaying results from a search,
A translucent map target to give the user a visual reference,
Means for rearranging the translucent map at a point indicated by a mouse pointer;
Optimization means for optimizing the map;
Micro-map means to give an integrated display of the map at various zoom levels;
Rollout map controls to optimize the use of limited viewing space,
Viewfinder control to give map movement function,
Custom location driving directions to display a list of roads on the map,
A system characterized by including. An information retrieval system using spatially selectable features,
Means for defining a search range;
Means for detecting a minimum search range necessary for searching for a specified minimum number of search results;
Means for indexing a search that is beyond the defined search range where the record is available and indexing a search that is beyond the defined search range as a search and search record starting at a point;
A means of generating a dynamic set of categories to provide to the user depending on the current map settings;
A means of determining an appropriate default search scope to ensure the provision of search results in all appropriate categories and evaluating all records;
A system characterized by including. A computer readable storage medium encoded with a computer process for providing an information retrieval method using spatially selectable features, the computer process comprising:
Processing the part to define the search range;
Processing the portion to find the minimum search range necessary to search for the specified minimum number of search results;
A search for a search initiated at and at a point beyond the defined search range where the record is available and processing of the portion to index the search record and a record beyond the defined search range;
Processing the part to generate a dynamic set of categories to provide to the user depending on the current map settings;
Determining the appropriate default search scope to ensure the provision of search results in all appropriate categories, and processing the part that evaluates all records;
A computer readable storage medium comprising:

Images