Custom Catalog Segmentation for Modem Browsing Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for browsing and ordering from internet catalogs using modem dial-up connections are inefficient due to slow download times, especially for customers who need to access multiple pages with graphical images, and are not feasible for those in rural areas without access to faster internet services.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for creating a Custom Catalog on the Internet that allows customers to select only the products they are interested in, enabling them to browse and order products more efficiently by providing low-resolution catalog pages and detailed product presentations, which can be updated and managed through a user account with options for adding, deleting, and purchasing products.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If customers browse traditional internet catalogs with multiple pages containing graphical images, then they can access comprehensive product information, but the download time becomes excessively long for modem dial-up connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the catalog into multiple separate HTML files organized in a tree structure, where each file represents a specific category or product section. This segmentation allows customers to download only the specific catalog sections they need rather than entire multi-page catalogs with all graphical images, significantly reducing download time while maintaining access to comprehensive product information across different categories.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts essential product information into standalone HTML files that can be downloaded independently without requiring all accompanying graphical images and formatting data. By separating the core product data from the full catalog presentation, customers can quickly access product information without waiting for complete catalog downloads.
2Loss of information
If customers download complete catalog pages with all graphical images, then they obtain full product details, but the data transmission volume increases significantly for slow connections
Solution Approach 1:
The catalog is segmented into multiple HTML files containing only the essential product information, pricing, and descriptions needed for browsing. Graphical images and formatting data are separated and only downloaded when specifically needed, reducing the initial data transmission volume while ensuring complete product details remain accessible.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements partial downloading where customers receive only the necessary product information and text content initially, without all graphical images and formatting data. This partial action reduces data transmission volume significantly, and additional content can be downloaded on-demand when customers need specific product details or visual information.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional catalog browsing is used, then all products are available, but customers cannot efficiently access only the products they are interested in
Solution Approach 1:
The catalog is organized into segmented HTML files by product category and type, allowing customers to directly navigate to and download only the specific product sections they are interested in. This segmentation enables efficient targeted browsing rather than requiring customers to view entire catalogs sequentially, significantly improving browsing efficiency while maintaining access to all products through the organized structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows customers to pre-select and download only the catalog sections containing products they are interested in before making purchasing decisions. This preliminary action of selective downloading improves browsing efficiency by providing immediate access to relevant product information without requiring customers to wait for or navigate through unrelated catalog content.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for creating and ordering from a Custom Catalog via an Internet catalog website is disclosed. A customer who is interested in only certain products included in a company's Internet product catalog can create a Custom Catalog that includes information about only those products in which the customer is interested. The customer provides certain identifying information, including the customer's e-mail address and a password that is linked to the e-mail address. Once the Custom Catalog is created, the customer can browse the company products displayed at the website and add them to his Custom Catalog. The purchaser can select products in the Custom Catalog and view detailed images of the selected products that include pricing and purchasing information for the products. The customer can also delete from his Custom Catalog those products no longer of interest.