Dynamic Auction Timer Resetting for Vehicle Bidding Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing online vehicle auction systems often impose rigid time limits on bidding, forcing users to rush and may require frequent checks for updates, and lack flexibility for users to actively participate or manage multiple auctions simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
An online auction system that employs an auction timer resetting with each higher bid, allowing users to place bids before or during the auction, and features like 'Walk the Line' for vehicle selection, 'Selling Your Vehicle' interactive menu, and simultaneous bidding capabilities, enabling users to manage multiple auctions and receive notifications on bid results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If rigid time limits are imposed on bidding, then the auction process is shortened and efficiency is improved, but users are forced to rush and cannot make informed decisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic time limit system where the auction duration is not fixed but adapts based on bidding activity. The timer resets automatically when new bids are received, extending the auction period dynamically. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining efficiency through defined time boundaries while allowing users adequate decision-making time through automatic extensions when engagement occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the time parameter dynamically based on bidding activity. Instead of a static time limit, the auction duration parameter is adjusted in real-time based on whether new bids are received. This allows the system to adapt between efficiency (when no bids come in) and user comfort (when active bidding occurs).
2Ease of operation
If vehicles are posted for extended periods (2-4 weeks), then users have sufficient time to evaluate and bid, but users must check back frequently to see if they have been outbid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automatic notification system that provides feedback to users about their bid status. When a user places a bid, the system automatically notifies them of the current status and any subsequent outbidding. This eliminates the need for users to manually check back frequently, as they receive real-time or near-real-time updates, resolving the contradiction between having sufficient evaluation time and minimizing time spent checking status.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically monitors and notifies users about their bid standing without requiring active user intervention. The auction system self-manages the communication of bid status, freeing users from the burden of frequent manual checks while ensuring they remain informed about their positioning in the bidding process.
Data Source
AI summary
An online automobile auction, which allows the consumer to participate by using their home or portable computers and accessing the system via an Internet connection. Before the designated time for an auction, the consumer may access the database of available automobiles. Along with displaying visual depictions of the vehicles, the computer system affords the consumer the ability to access statistics on the current inventory of vehicles. Prior to the auction, using an automated auction feature, a plurality of bidders input their minimum starting bid, the maximum bid and the incrementing value. Bidders are also allowed to bid on vehicles during the auction process.