Data Link Verification System for Source File Validation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for comparative shopping tools do not allow users to verify the validity of extracted data or link to the source web pages, as source information is not stored, making it difficult for users to confirm data accuracy and access additional relevant information.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that creates links between displayed data fields and source files, storing link identification information to enable users to access and display the source files, allowing for data verification and validation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If data is extracted from merchant web pages for comparative shopping, then the database can be automatically updated with product information, but users cannot verify the validity of the extracted data or access the source web pages

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic database update efficiencyVSAvoiddata validity verification
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically extracting and storing source web page information (URLs, screenshots, metadata) at the time of data extraction. This preliminary preservation of source information enables later verification without requiring users to manually visit the original web pages, thus maintaining both automation efficiency and data reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary verification mechanism that stores and manages source file information separately from the extracted product data. This intermediary layer (source file storage and linking system) allows users to verify data validity by accessing stored source information without disrupting the automated extraction process, effectively mediating between productivity and reliability requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Quantity of substance

If source web pages are not stored, then storage space is conserved, but users cannot link to or review additional information on the source web pages

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage space utilizationVSAvoidsource information accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts only the essential source file information (URLs, metadata, key identifiers) needed for verification rather than storing complete copies of source web pages. This selective extraction approach conserves storage space while preserving the critical information needed for users to locate and verify original sources, balancing storage efficiency with information accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates simplified copies or representations of source web page information (such as stored URLs, metadata snapshots, or condensed source file references) that enable verification without requiring full duplication of original web pages. These copies provide sufficient information for users to access and validate source data while occupying minimal storage resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Extent of automation

If users cannot control which websites and data are displayed, then the system operates automatically, but users cannot verify data sources or access relevant additional information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic data extraction and displayVSAvoiduser control over data sources
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic control mechanisms that allow users to adjust verification settings, select which source files to display, and control the level of automation. Users can switch between fully automated modes and manual verification modes, enabling the system to adapt to different user needs and situations, thus balancing automation efficiency with user control and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8887045B2System and method for providing data links
Publication Date: 2014.11.11 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US8887045B2 patent drawing
  • US8887045B2 patent drawing
  • US8887045B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for providing data verification are disclosed. In one exemplary method, the data is displayed in at least one display field and information related to the data is stored in at least one source file. The method includes creating a link between the display field and the source file, wherein the link is displayed in a verification panel associated with the display field. The method further includes saving link identification information, wherein the link identification information includes category information of the display field and location information of the source file, and obtaining the source file at the location specified by the link identification information, if the link is selected for display; and opening the source file and displaying the source file.