Automated Discount Code Evaluation via Network Trace Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional UI-based discount code entry and evaluation processes are inefficient, time-consuming, and disruptive to user experience, often requiring multiple page refreshes and uncertain code validation times.
Innovation Solution
A method that bypasses the UI-based approach by using API calls to translate network traces of discount codes into a standardized class format, such as ECMA script, allowing for rapid evaluation and selection of the highest benefit code without disrupting the user's interaction with the checkout interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If UI-based discount code entry method is used, then user can enter discount codes through the checkout interface, but the process is time-consuming and requires multiple page refreshes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (bot or automated system) that acts as a mediator between the user and the merchant's backend system. This intermediary automatically enters discount codes through the UI, evaluates them, and returns results without requiring user intervention or page refreshes, thereby resolving the time loss while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of UI-based code entry with an automated electronic system. The bot programmatically interacts with the checkout interface, automatically entering codes and capturing results, eliminating the time-consuming manual operations while preserving the original UI-based evaluation mechanism
2Measurement precision
If multiple discount codes are evaluated through UI-based approach, then the best discount can be found, but the checkout interface becomes unusable due to repeated page refreshes
Solution Approach 1:
The bot serves as an intermediary that handles multiple code evaluations in the background without disrupting the checkout interface. It systematically tests multiple discount codes, compares their benefits, and presents the best option to the user, maintaining interface usability while achieving precise discount evaluation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary evaluation of multiple discount codes before the user finalizes their purchase. The bot pre-tests various codes, determines which provides the maximum benefit, and prepares the optimal code for application, allowing the user to make informed decisions without interface disruption
3Extent of automation
If automated UI-based code entry is implemented, then code evaluation can be automated, but the process is disruptive and loses user-entered data during page refreshes
Solution Approach 1:
The bot acts as an intelligent intermediary that automates the code evaluation process while preserving user data. It manages the automated entry and evaluation of discount codes through the UI, captures results, and maintains user information across operations, achieving high automation without information loss
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of the checkout interaction process through the bot. It replicates the code entry and evaluation steps programmatically, capturing all necessary information and results without affecting the actual user interface or losing user-entered data, thereby enabling automation while preserving information integrity
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method includes accessing a website of a known merchant and creating an active shopping cart on the website of the known merchant. The method further includes applying a discount code at a UI element of the website for inputting discount codes, collecting a network trace of the applied discount code, and translating the network trace of the applied discount code to an ECMA class format.