Browser Extension for Seamless Product Info Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Online users do not convert their browsing activities into product sales effectively due to the lack of seamless access to vendor-provided product information and commerce functionalities while viewing electronic documents.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a program extension, such as a browser plug-in, to provide users with product-related information and commerce functionalities by cross-referencing information from the electronic document being viewed, allowing users to access relevant product details and functionalities without leaving the current document, using pop-up displays or modifying the document directly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users browse electronic documents (webpages) to look for products, then they can access product information, but they cannot seamlessly connect to vendor functionalities and complete purchases without leaving the current document
Solution Approach 1:
A browser extension acts as an intermediary between the electronic document (webpage) and the vendor's commerce functionalities. The extension includes a content script that communicates with the webpage and a background script that manages vendor connections, allowing users to access vendor functionalities without leaving the current document context.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a new dimensional layer by embedding commerce functionalities within the existing webpage structure through the browser extension. This allows purchase actions to occur in the same visual and interactive space as the product information, eliminating the need to navigate away from the current document.
2Productivity
If users are provided with product information and commerce functionalities through traditional methods, then they can access relevant data, but they must navigate away from the current electronic document to complete actions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the commerce functionality layer with the information display layer by embedding purchase buttons, product details, and vendor connections directly into the webpage structure. This unified interface allows users to complete purchase actions without navigating between separate documents or pages.
3Ease of operation
If a program extension is used to provide product information and functionalities, then seamless access is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The browser extension is segmented into distinct functional components: a content script that handles communication with the webpage, a background script that manages vendor connections and commerce functionalities, and a popup interface that provides user interaction points. This modular architecture reduces overall system complexity by allowing each component to be developed and maintained independently.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for allowing a user to quickly access product information and/or commerce functionalities as related to one or more products that are associated with an electronic document, such as a web page, that is currently being viewed by the user in an electronic document viewing program, such as an Internet browser.