US Patent 7363282 Search system using user behavior data

Context-based user feedback is gathered regarding searches performed on a search mechanism. The search mechanism is monitored for user behavior data regarding an interaction of a user with the search mechanism. The response data provided by the search mechanism is also monitored. Context data (describing the search) and user feedback data (the user's feedback on the search—either explicit or implicit) are determined. This can be used, for example, to evaluate a search mechanism or to check a relevance model.