WO2001022256A1

WO2001022256A1 - Cataloging and searching for auction items

Info

Publication number: WO2001022256A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/021977
Authority: WO
Inventors: Douglas Jon Nelson
Original assignee: Gebot, Inc.
Priority date: 1999-09-21
Filing date: 2000-09-21
Publication date: 2001-03-29
Also published as: AU7572000A

Abstract

An apparatus and corresponding method allows for remotely mechanizing the cataloging of items within the memory o a server (110) within a client-server environment. The apparatus includes a client and a communication link. The client has a user interface and a web browser (112, 114). The communication link signal couples the client with a server having a database in which items are catalogued. The client is configured to run an application operative to provide a list of attributes for a potential item that is viewable at the client. The user can observe an item to determine at least one attribute of the item, can associate an attribute selected from a list of attributes for the item, and can remotely catalog the item from the client by submitting the associated attribute and the item with the web browser of the client to the server.

Description

DESCRIPTION

CATALOGING AND SEARCHING FOR AUCTION ITEMS

Cross-Reference to Related Application

This application claims the benefits of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/400,737, filed September 21, 1999, entitled "Apparatus and Method for Cataloging Auction Items, Apparatus and Method for Searching for and/or Locating Auction Items, and Apparatus for Notifying a Search Requestor of Availability of a Desired Auction Item", and naming inventor Douglas Jon Nelson, and also claims the benefits of a continuation-in-part patent application thereof filed September 20, 2000, entitled "Inductive Cataloging Apparatus and Method", naming inventor Douglas Jon Nelson, as U.S. Patent Application Serial No. _/ , Attorney Docket No. NE21-002.

Technical Field

This present invention pertains to information retrieval systems with interconnected computer environments. More particularly, this invention relates to a system and method for cataloging and searching for auction items via a common search engine.

Background Art

The recent acceptance and adoption of online networks by the populace has led to a significant improvement in the way in which buyers search for auction items in which they have an interest. More particularly, online networks such as the Internet are now frequently accessed by users via a personal computer (PC) and a modem. For example, a web browser such as Netscape Navigator, comprising a software program resident on a user's personal computer (PC), enables a user to access files from any computer that is connected to the World Wide Web (WWW). The World Wide Web (WWW) is a system that allows easy access to distributed documents across the Internet using a client/server architecture.

During an online session on the World Wide Web (WWW), a user can use a web search engine, such as Aita Vista™, Yahoo!™, or Excite™, to locate items of interest via hypertext links. Such web search engines gather information about what is available on the Internet using Web crawlers. Web crawlers are programs that gather information by following hypertext links that are encountered by the program. The program then sends a universal resource locator (URL) and document text back to the indexing software of the search engine for each encountered document. Information from the documents is extracted by the indexing software, such as words, document size and date of creation The information is organized mto a database based upon the frequency of usage of individual words withm a document. A keyword search that is implemented on the search engine searches the database, and generates a search result without actually going directly to the World Wide Web (WWW). A results page is generated with hypertext links for the web pages that were located in the database. In order to go to the web page, a user merely clicks on the link.

Several auction systems are currently available on the Internet, using a search engine as descπbed above. Examples include E-bay™, e-hammer™ and Auction Universe™. Furthermore, such auction systems can be located by usmg a web search engine such as Aita Vista™ Search provided by Aita Vista Company of Palo Alto, California. However, such auction systems use a deductive method of locating inventory via a search engine. Deduction is a process of reasoning in which a conclusion follows necessarily from the premises that are presented.

As an example of a deductive locating technique, e-Bay™, e-Hammer™, and Auction Universe™ all begin the cataloging process by creating category lists for a database. Some categories may be general, whereas other categories may be specific. To place an item into such a database, a particular object is observed and categorical conclusions are drawn about the object based upon an existmg category list for the database. The object is placed withm a category that is deemed to be the most appropriate For example, a painting may be placed mto an "artwork" category list.

In summary, a deductive cataloging process involves the steps of: creating a list of categories, observing an object, and placmg the object into the category that best describes the object. For the cases where a database contains a very small number of items using very broad category descriptions, or if the database contains only a very specific item group using very specific categories, the deductive method of cataloging and searching is generally sufficient. However, if the database is relatively large in number of items and is also general in variety of items, the deductive cataloging process will not produce satisfactory results

As an example of the above-mentioned problems, if one were faced with a search for a specific book that was in a garage sale and all books at the garage sale were located in a single box, a search would entail looking through the box of 20 or so books. Such a search would probably not pose a problem, and would be manageable, so the book would most likely be located However, if there were 20,000 books located in a single box, the chances of quickly finding the book would diminish significantly, and only a most determined person might carry out the search to completion Such situation clearly describes the problem presented when a general category is used containing too large a number of items.

One technique for addressing the above problem involves sub-dividmg the books into categories. For the above situation where there are a large number of books at a garage sale, if the books are placed in multiple boxes defined by categories, the books would be spread out into smaller and more manageable piles. However, a difficult decision needs to be made as to how the categories will be defined. What if the categories mclude fiction, religion, and autobiographies⁷ There may still be an overwhelming number of books in each category. Additional categories can be added, such as adventure, which could then be subdivided mto fiction or nonfiction. So starts the process of categorizing and sub-categorizing the large number of books. However, by adding more specific categories to each box of books via addition of further categories or sub-categories, the more difficult it may become to know definitively into which box a particular book ought to be placed. Although many books would be found, some books would be placed in boxes thought to be inappropriate to the person searching, and the book would not be found

It is possible to use a computer to do word searches so that, even if a group of books were all in one box, a simple word search would find the proper book. However, accuracy will be achieved only where people are careful to type in information without error, which is not always going to be the case. Furthermore, it may be hard to search for some books, for example, where a book does not have a title written across the book cover. More specifically, it may be hard to look for specific articles such as ethnographic art or, more specifically, weavmgs. A number of different word searches might be appropriate, such as the word phrases "weaving", "wearing blanket", "Chief s blanket", "Ganado", "serape", or "German Town", but success may still be unrealized. The success may depend on the specificity or generality used by a person who entered the original information. As a searcher, there would be many cases where you would not find all of the items that are of interest to you. Yet another technique involves performing word searches that cover a large number of documents. Typically, word searches are performed within specific fields of a document. For example, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office provides a full-text database search that enables the searching of issued U.S patents. Such search engine and database can be found at www uspto.gov A limited ability is provided to tailor word searches within specific fields within a text version of issued U.S. patent documents. However, mere word searches are performed with a field. Accordingly, many search results will generate a massive number of "hits", or relevant documents. Such systems merely perform a word match withm fields of the documents being searched. If a user inadvertently misspells a word, no search result will be generated. Therefore, there still exists a need to provide for improved search techniques that overcome the above-described problems

In summary, databases that are dominated by categorical selection and have a large number of items run mto one or more problems. These problems include: having categories that aren't understood by a global market, having lists that are too long to search, or having categories that are too diverse to place items with the sureness that they can be found Therefore, there exists a need for an improved cataloging and search technique that overcomes the above-described problems. Disclosure of the Invention

A system and method are provided for inductively cataloging and searching items such as auction items or sale items. An item is cataloged by observing the item and considering other truths about the item that fall outside of the direct description of the item. Conclusions about the item evolve out of what is observed. A thorough examination of the item becomes the basis for formulating a categorical conclusion. A search for an item uses filters that contain truths about the items, identified as attributes, and then addresses the issue of category. Hence, an initial search entails only truths about the item, after which a more specific text-based word search can be carried out for the item.

According to one aspect of the invention, an apparatus for cataloging auction items is provided which includes a computer system accessible for online interactive communication with users. The computer system includes a first memory area configured to store a list of attributes of potential auction items, a second memory area configured to store a list of general object categories for potential auction items, and a third memory area comprising a database configured to store auction item information, including a description of at least one specific auction item, at least one attribute of each auction item, and a general object category for each auction item. The database associates each auction item with the at least one attribute and the general object category.

According to a second aspect of the mvention, a method of computerized cataloging of auction items provides a list of attributes for potential auction items, observes an auction item to determine at least one attribute of the auction item from the list of attributes, and categorizes the auction item based upon the observed and determined attribute. According to a third aspect of the invention, an apparatus for locating auction items is provided, including a network, a client computer and a web server computer. The client computer communicates with the network and has a web browser enabling online interactive communication by users with the network The web server computer has memory configured to store a list of attributes of potential auction items, a list of general object categories for potential auction items, and auction item information comprising a description of at least one auction item, at least one attribute of the at least one auction item, and a general object category for the at least one auction item. The client computer enables a user to search for an auction item via the web browser by selecting at least one attribute and a general object category and inputting such selection to the web server computer from the client computer.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, a method of computerized searching for auction items provides a network computer system having a client computer, a network, and a web server computer. The method also provides a list of auction items on the web server computer, each auction item having at least one identifiable attribute, and generates a search request at the client computer comprising selecting an attribute for a desired auction item being searched. Additionally, the method searches the list of auction items with the search request, and identifies a search result comprising at least one auction item from the list of auction items having the desired attribute.

According to an even further aspect of the mvention, an apparatus for notifying a search requestor of the availability of a desired search item includes a computer system, a network, a client computer, a web server, and a request notice program. The computer system is accessible for online interactive communication with users and includes a network. A client computer communicates with the network and has a web browser enabling online interactive communication by users with the network A web server computer having memory is configured to store a list of attributes of potential auction items, a list of general object categories for potential auction items, and updatable auction item information comprising a description of at least one auction item, at least one attribute of each of the at least one auction item, and a general object category for each of the at least one auction item. A request notice program implemented on the web server computer is operative to determine when a desired auction item having a requested attribute and general object category has been added to the updatable auction item information, and is configured to notify a user at the client computer of the desired auction item. One advantage provided by the Applicant's information cataloging and retπeval system is the simplified manner in which items can be cataloged and retrieved

Another advantage provided by Applicant's information cataloging and retrieval system is that precise textual descriptions for items are not needed in order to locate items that meet a search requestor's search criteria, or requirements Brief Description of the Drawings

Fig. 1 is a block diagram overview of a basic system configuration of an example auction house inventory cataloging and searching system according to one embodiment of the present invention Figs. 2A and 2B are process flow diagrams showing part of the logic processing for cataloging, searching, and retrieving information with a user at a web site.

Fig. 3 is a diagram of an information screen display that the computer system provides to a user immediately following login to the auction web site of Fig. 1 via a login screen display. Fig 4 is a diagram of a Search Criteria screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Find" trigger of Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is a diagram of a Refinement Search screen display having a category menu that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" trigger of Fig. 4 provided by the web browser at the web site Fig. 6 is a diagram of an Extended Refinement Search screen display having an optional sub-category menu that the computer system provides to a user after choosing a category from the "Select a Category" popup menu of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is a diagram of a Search Results screen display that the computer system provides to a user after selecting a category and a sub-category from the optional search sub-category, and clicking on the "Find an Item" trigger, or button, of Fig. 6.

Fig. 8 is a diagram of a Detail Page screen display for one search result of an Indian Signaling Painting provided to a user after clicking on the "Indian Signaling" trigger of Fig 7.

Fig 9 is an image of the Indian Signaling Painting provided to a user after clicking on the "Click for Photo" trigger of Fig. 8.

Fig. 10 is a diagram of a Featured Items screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Featured Item or Auction" trigger of Fig. 4.

Fig. 1 1 is a diagram of a Featured Auctions screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Featured Auctions" trigger of Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a diagram of a Request Notice Identification Number and Password screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Request Notice" trigger of Fig. 7.

Fig. 13 is a diagram of a Request Notification screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" trigger of Fig. 12.

Fig. 14 is a diagram of a Confirmation screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Confirm Request Notice" trigger of Fig. 13.

Fig 15 is a diagram of a Find an Auction screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Find an Auction" trigger of Fig. 4. Fig. 16 is a diagram of a Sell at Auction screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Sell at Auction" trigger of Fig. 4.

Fig. 17 is a diagram of a Appraisal Search Results screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" trigger of

Fig. 18 is a diagram of a Consignment Information Category screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on a selected "Auction House" trigger of Fig. 17.

Fig. 19 is a diagram of a Consignment Search Results screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" trigger of Fig. 18.

Fig. 20 is a diagram of an Insurance Information screen display showing insurance information that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Service Links" trigger of Fig 4.

Fig. 21 is a diagram of a Shipping Information screen display showing shipping information that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Shipping Information" trigger of Fig. 20.

Fig. 22 is a diagram of a User Registration Request Notification screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Register for Request Notice" trigger of Fig. 12. Fig. 23 is a diagram of a Request Notification Registration Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "To Request a Registration Number Click Here" trigger of Fig. 22.

Fig. 24 is a diagram of a Request Notification Registration Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "To Submit Form Click Here" trigger of Fig. 23. Fig. 25 is a diagram of a Sale Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Date of Sale" trigger of Fig. 7.

Fig. 26 is a diagram of an Index of Sale screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Index of Sale" trigger of Fig. 25. Fig. 27 is a diagram of a Featured Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Features" trigger of Fig. 25.

Fig. 28 is a diagram of a Bidding Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding Information" trigger of Fig. 25.

Fig. 29 is a diagram of a Bidding on Location screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding on Location" trigger of Fig. 28

Fig. 30 is a diagram of a Bidding via Absentee screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding via Absentee" trigger of

Fig. 31 is a diagram of a Bidding via Telephone screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding via Telephone" trigger of

Fig. 32 is a diagram of a Bidding via Internet screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding via Internet" trigger of Fig. 28.

Fig. 33 is a diagram of a Department Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Department Information" trigger of Fig 25.

Fig. 34 is a diagram of a Conditions of Sale screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Conditions of Sale" trigger of Fig. 33.

Fig 35 is a diagram of a Terms of Guaranty screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Terms of Guaranty" trigger of Fig. 33.

Fig. 36 is a diagram of a Glossary of Terms screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Glossary of Terms" trigger of Fig. 33.

Fig. 37 is a diagram of a General Auction House Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "General Auction House Information" trigger of Fig. 25

Fig 38 is a diagram of an Upcoming Auctions screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Upcoming Auctions" trigger of Fig. 37.

Fig 39 is a diagram of an Auction House Addresses screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Addresses" trigger of Fig. 38. Fig 40 is a diagram of a Department Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Department Information" trigger of Fig. 39.

Fig 41 is a diagram of a Conditions of Sale screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Conditions of Sale" trigger of Fig. 40

Fig. 42 is a diagram of a Terms of Guaranty screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Terms of Guaranty" trigger of Fig. 40

Fig. 43 is a diagram of a Glossary of Terms screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Glossary of Terms" trigger of Fig. 40. Fig 44 is a diagram of a Consignment Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Consignment Information" trigger of Fig. 37.

Fig. 45 is a diagram of an Appraisal Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Appraisal Information" trigger

Fig. 46 is a diagram of a code table for database categories for English language nouns mapping the first portion code for a string for various categorized items including a computer that is mcluded as a Technological Conglomerate.

Fig. 47 is a diagram of a code table containing second portion codes for the first portion string for a computer of Fig. 46.

Fig. 48 is a diagram of a Help Database screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Need Help" trigger of Fig. 4.

Fig. 49 is a diagram of a Help in Placing an Item screen display for a cat that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" trigger of

Fig 50 is a table of exemplary item code strings, a search string, and search result item code strings.

Fig. 51 is a table of item code strings for locating items on specific web pages of a web site. Fig. 52 is a process flow diagram showing the logic processing for remotely mechanizing the archiving of items from a client to a server of Applicant's web site. Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention and Disclosure of Invention

Reference will now be made to a preferred embodiment of Applicant's invention.

One exemplary implementation is described below and depicted with reference to the drawings comprising an inductive apparatus and method of cataloging and searching for auction items over an online network While the invention is described via a preferred embodiment, it is understood that the descπption is not intended to limit the mvention to this embodiment, but is intended to cover alternatives, equivalents, and modifications such as are included within the scope of the appended claims.

Figure 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of Applicant's invention wherein a basic system configuration is provided for an information cataloging and retrieval system usable on an online network identified with reference numeral 100. An online network 102 is provided in one form as the Internet 104, and more particularly as the World Wide Web (WWW) 106 Network 102 is part of a network environment, or networked computer system 108. Networked computer system 108 includes a web server computer 1 10, one or more client (or host) computers 1 12, and online network 102.

More particularly, web server computer 110 is a hardware component that serves codes and data to the World Wide Web (WWW) 106. Web server computer 110 includes a web server 1 18 comprising a software program that receives, manages, and responds to client requests for web documents and files. Web server 120 includes a central auction house search engine web site 120 in which a database of searchable items are cataloged and from which items can be searched by a client computer 112. Such cataloging and searching are carried out pursuant to the information cataloging and retπeval system 100 of Applicant's invention as descπbed below in greater detail with reference to Figures 2-32. Web site 120 includes a web page 122 and an auction database 124. Web page

122 comprises a unit of information in the form of a data unit that includes text and/or graphics. The unit of data is capable of being presented on a screen of client computer 112 to a user, such as an individual searching for a desired auction item. Individual web pages are active and can include "hot buttons" or "icons" or "links" which will also be referred to hereinafter as "triggers". "Triggers" enable the launching of simple application-software programs and/or access to linked pages. Auction database 124 comprises a collection of interrelated and/or non-related auction data that is stored together on web server computer 110.

More particularly, auction database 124 includes a list of objects, or auction items, 126 that are to be auctioned off by one or more sources, such as individual auction houses Each object withm the list of objects 124 is provided, or mapped, with one or more truths about the object, and categories of objects 130 are also provided to assist in locating a particular object. Examples of truths are descπbed below in greater detail with reference to Figures 3-32. For purposes of this disclosure, the term "truth" is understood as meaning "the property in a conception, judgment, statement, proposition, belief or opinion of being in accord with what is in fact or in necessity, such as a property of declarative sentences" An "attribute" is understood to mean "a quality intrinsic, inherent, or naturally belonging to a thing or person, such as a necessary or essential quality or characteristic of substance". The association of a particular attribute to an auction item is considered to form a truth.

As shown in Figure 1, it is understood that client computer 1 12 is a general purpose machine that processes data via a set of instructions that is stored in a data storage device, such as memory The computer and peripheral components comprise hardware on which one or more software programs are implemented The hardware includes a processor or microprocessor, a hard disk drive; input devices such as a display screen, keyboard and mouse; and other associated components which are well understood in the art.

Additionally, web server computer 1 10 includes hardware such as one or more processors, or microprocessors; one or more data storage devices, such as a hard disk drive (HDD); memory, such as random access memory (RAM); and an interface device, such as a display, a keyboard and a mouse.

According to one implementation of Applicant's invention, web server computer 1 10 comprises an Apple Mclntosh G3/450 Server available from Apple Computer, Inc., of Cupertino, California; a pair of mirrored 9-gιgabyte low-voltage differential (LVD) SCSI hard drives, 256 megabytes of SD RAM; a 32X CD-ROM drive; and a 100 Base T Fast Ethernet connection. Web server 118 is rendered using AppleShare IP6.2 Server Software available from Apple Computer, Inc., of Cupertino, California; FileMaker Pro 4.0 Developer Edition available from FileMaker, Inc., of Santa Clara, California, a software subsidiary of Apple Computer, Inc., of Cupertino, California, Web Star 4 0 Developer Edition; and Lasso 3.5 Database Engine Additionally, the following programming languages are utilized accordmg to one implementation: HTML; Java Script; Claris Dynamic Markup Language (CDML) available from Claris, a subsidiary of Apple Computer, Inc.; Lasso available from Blue World Computing, of Bellevue, Washington; and Apple Script, a part of System 7 Operating System available from Apple Computer, Inc.

For purposes of this disclosure, it is understood that memory generally refers to a data storage device resident within or associated with a computer, such as a random access memory (RAM). As utilized herein, memory is intended to refer to any form of storage medium associated with a computer, such as a data storage device, and including hard disk drives (HDDs), semiconductor memories and addressable storage spaces present within a processing unit or other internal storage devices that are used to execute instructions and/or store data and addresses, or any other form of memory as presently understood within the art Furthermore, it is understood that memory can be physically subdivided into units such as a first memory area, a second memory area, and a third memory area. Such units are not necessarily physically associated, but can be associated via the ability to address and/or locate such memory areas.

As shown in Figure 1, an example auction house inventory cataloging and searching system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention implements inductive reasoning, or induction, in which a conclusion, though supported by the premises, does not necessarily follow from the premises According to the inductive cataloging and search technique, an object is first observed. Secondly, other truths related to, but outside of, the item are considered. Thirdly, a thorough examination is made of the item along with the truths related to the item, and categorical conclusions are drawn for the item.

According to one implementation of an inductive computerized cataloging and search technique, the following process steps are implemented. First, a potential auction item is observed by an individual tasked with adding an auction item to a list of auction items with a computerized catalog of auction items via computer 1 10 (of Fig. 1). First, the individual is faced with making a decision as to what material in the auction item is predominant. A list of potential materials is provided, and the selection of the appropriate material forms a first truth (factual premise), or attribute, that relates to the potential auction item. A second truth is provided when the individual must determine when the item was made, being presented with a plurality of potential ranges of dates of manufacture. The answer to such second query forms a truth (factual premise), or attribute, based upon observations made by the individual attempting to catalog the potential auction item. A third query involves a question as to where the item was made. The answer to such question forms a third truth (factual premise), or attribute, which is answered by the individual attempting to catalog the potential auction item. Each of the above truths is based upon attributes of the respective auction item. More particularly, the truth of a posited statement forms an attribute of an auction item. In considering the above questions, an individual can also question the form of usage for the potential auction item. For example, a query can be presented that characterizes the item's intended predominant created usage The answer to such a query forms a truth (factual premise), or attribute, which further facilitates cataloging of such potential auction item. A final query involves deciding what general category the potential auction item would be fitted mto based upon a pre-selected list of potential general categories. The answer to such general category further aids in the cataloging of the potential auction item, after considering the truths, or factual premises, from the earlier queries

The above-described technique of implementing an inductive method of cataloging and searching resolves and addresses several problems. One problem is presented because categories are not understood universally by all individuals. Use of the inductive method solves such problem because a potential auction item, or object, is first placed by answering a series of queries that relate to truths, or factual premises, regarding the object, and the auction item is not initially placed into a pre-selected category. The truth to each query represents an attribute of the potential auction item A second problem results because general categories oftentimes result in lists of items which are too long to practically search. The use of Applicant's inductive search technique solves such problem because an object is first filtered with a series of queries that relate to truths, or factual premises, relating to the object being considered. Attributes of auction items are then determined by the truths. The attributes are used to localize a search for auction items, thereby reducing the size of lists that are needed to catalog an item or object via a catalog list.

A third problem results from the overlap which occurs between many specific categories A solution is provided when using Applicant's inductive technique since an object is placed first by a series of attributes based upon truths, or factual premises, and is then later fitted into a general category, after presenting a series of queries which result in truths, or factual premises, and associated attributes.

In order to better understand the claimed aspects of Applicant's invention, a detailed example is presented below with reference to Figures 3-49

Figures 2A and 2B together form a process flow diagram showing part of the logic processing for cataloging, searching, and retrieving information with a user at web site 120 (of Fig. 1). More particularly, Figure 2A illustrates the process of cataloging an auction item within a database. Figure 2B illustrates the searching and retrieving of auction items from the cataloged database.

As shown in Figure 2A, a logic flow diagram illustrates the steps implemented by the auction house inventory cataloging and searching system of Applicant's invention when cataloging auction items

In Step "SI ", an individual such as a web administrator havmg access to web site 120 (of Fig. 1) accesses auction database 124 (of Fig. 1), then provides a list of attributes 129 (of Fig. 1) and general categories of categories 130 (of Fig. 1). After performing Step "SI ", the process proceeds to Step "S2". In Step "S2", the individual observes an auction item Here the term "observe" is intended to mean "to make an observation on or of, or to ascertain by observation especially through consideration of noted facts". After performing Step "S2", the process proceeds to Step "S3". In Step "S3", the individual asks a question about the prospective auction item in order to characterize and/or identify significant features and details of the prospective auction item which identify attributes of the auction item. After performing Step "S3", the process proceeds to Step "S4".

In Step "S4", the individual ascertains the truth or factual response to the question or query asked in Step "S3". After performing Step "S4", the process proceeds to Step "S5".

In Step "S5", the individual determines an attribute of the auction item based upon the ascertained truth of the question. For example, an individual who is cataloging an auction item can observe the auction item pursuant to Step "S2". After observing the auction item, the individual asks questions about which material the auction item is manufactured from or made Each query produces an answer, or truth, for the particular question according to Step "S4". Armed with truthful answers to specific questions, an attribute of the auction item is determined based upon the truth of one or more specific questions pursuant to Step "S5" More particularly, the individual selects one of several predominant groups which are displayed m a pull-down menu 156 identified below with reference to Figure 5. By asking questions and ascertaining truth to such questions, the individual is able to determine the predominant group withm which the auction item falls. In this manner, the individual is able to characterize the prospective auction item, and determine attributes of the auction item. After performing Step "S5", the process proceeds to Step "S6".

In Step "S6", the identified attribute is stored in memory. After performing Step "S6", the process proceeds to Step "S7".

In Step "S7", a determination is made as to whether there are any more questions that aid in characterizing the prospective auction item. If there are more questions, the process proceeds back to Step "S3" and a new question is asked If not, the process proceeds to Step "S8".

In Step "S8", the individual determines a general category from the list of general categories which are provided. After performing Step "S8", the process proceeds to Step "S9" In Step "S9", the determined general category is stored in memory withm the web server computer. After performing Step "S9", the process proceeds to Step "S10" In Step "S10", an identification search string is constructed for the auction item using the attribute and general category which have been stored in memory and associated with the auction item to enable identification of the auction item according to Steps "S6" and "S9". After performing Step "S10", the process proceeds to Step "SI 1 ".

In Step "SH ", the auction item is cataloged in a database usmg the search string which updates the database. Following Step "SH", the cataloging process is complete and the flow process terminates Additionally, or optionally, the search process begins at Step "SI 2" after performing Step "Sl l". In Step "SI 2", a user of Applicant's auction house inventory cataloging and searching system 100 (of Fig. 1) accesses auction database 124 via the Internet 108 using a client computer 112 having a web browser 114 (of Fig. 1). Web site 120 (of Fig. 1) provides an updatable list of auction items and associated attributes and general categories on a network computer system corresponding with auction database 124 (of Fig 1). After performing Step "S12", the process proceeds to Step "S13".

In Step "SI 3", a user at a client computer generates a search request by selecting an attribute and a general category for a desired auction item. After performing Step "S13", the process proceeds to Step "S14".

In Step "S14", a user at a client computer searches the list of auction items with the search request in order to identify auction items having the attribute and falling withm the general category. After performing Step "SI 4", the process proceeds to Step "SI 5".

In Step "S15", the web server computer identifies a search result of auction items having the desired attribute and falling within the general category. After performing Step "S15", the cataloging and search technique of Applicant's mvention terminates

It is understood that Figures 2A and 2B illustrate one aspect of Applicant's invention. However, it is also understood that Applicant's invention can be applied to an apparatus for cataloging items and an apparatus for locating items. More particularly, auction items form one instance of an item that can be cataloged and/or located using Applicant's invention. Other aspects of an item include sale items, items of commerce, and items for barter. Accordingly, the following descriptions provide further examples of Applicant's invention.

According to one additional aspect of the mvention, an apparatus for cataloging items is provided which mcludes a computer system accessible for online interactive communication with users. The computer system includes a first memory area configured to store a list of attributes of potential items. A second memory area is configured to store a list of general object categories for potential items, and a third memory area comprising a database is configured to store item information, including a description of at least one specific item, at least one attribute of each item, and a general object category for each item. The database associates each item with the at least one attribute in the general object category.

According to another further aspect of the invention, an apparatus for locating items is provided. The apparatus includes a network, a client computer, and a web server. The client computer communicates with the network and has a web browser enabling online interactive communication by users with the network. The web server computer has memory configured to store a list of attributes of potential items, a list of general object categories for potential items, and item information comprising a description of at least one item, at least one attribute of the at least one item, and a general object category for the at least one item. The client computer enables a user to search for an item via the web browser by selecting at least one attribute in a general object category and inputting such selection to the web server computer from the client computer.

Figures 3-49 illustrate by example graphical user interface features comprising hypertext mark-up language (HTML) front end user tools that are provided as an extension to the web server, or software, 118 resident in memory 1 17 on the web server computer 110 (of Fig. 1) and usable to illustrate one implementation of Applicant's information cataloging and retrieval system. According to the one implementation, the online network is shown as the Internet, and more particularly as the World Wide Web (WWW). For purposes of illustration, a graphical user interface provided upon a display screen of client computer 1 12 (of Fig. 1) is used to display to a user individual web pages, each havmg icons, or triggers, that may be clicked on to select different services and/or search options

Figures 3-49 each form diagrams of example login screen displays that the computer system provides to a user during various steps when navigating through the auction web site during an auction search process. It is understood that a screen forms at least part of a web page, and the screen comprises a window which is a predefined part of virtual space. Such screen can include selection buttons, pull-down menus, icons, and other usable and selectable items capable of being configured or selected with a cursor using a tactile input device such as a mouse and/or keyboard keys. When an individual wants to catalog a new auction item m the auction web site, an opening security screen (not shown) can be presented to a user who is accessing Applicant's web site. Such opening security screen prevents the general public from accessing cataloging functionality which is provided on Applicant's web site. More particularly, the cataloging of functionality encompasses the adding of particular auction items and auction house information to the auction web site by an authorized party and/or user. Such an opening security screen would be provided as a login screen to users that are cataloging auction items onto the web site by way of a distinct web address. The opening security screen, or login screen, would include a web site identification block in which identifying indicia and/or text are provided for identifying the web site to a user. The opening security screen comprises a login and password access screen which is presented to a user that is cataloging auction items via a client computer onto the web site by accessing Applicant's information cataloging and retrieval system on Applicant's web site. More particularly, a user that is cataloging auction items will access the web site by typing in a user name via a user name menu and a user password via a user password menu. After typing in such user name and password, the user gains access to the web site by clicking on a "Click to Login" button, or some other equivalent trigger

Access to the web site according to the example depicted in Figures 3-49 requires at least Netscape Communicator Version 3.0 or Internet Explorer Version 4.0. One exemplary web site address comprises "http://www.gebot.com". Figure 3 is a diagram of an information screen display that the computer system provides to a user immediately following access to the auction web site of Figure 1. For the case of individuals searching the web site for auction items, the users merely type in the web site address at their web site browser. For the case of individuals cataloging auction items at the web site, the user accesses the web site via the above - described opening security screen. The screen display of Figure 3 is presented to a user following login to the web site. The screen of Figure 3 compπses the mam page, or home page. From this screen, all options on Applicant's web site are made available and accessible.

As shown in Figure 3, the screen display compπses a screen shot having a web site identification block 132 in which identifying indicia and/or text are provided for identifying the web site to a user. To begin an auction search, a user clicks on a "Find" button 140 which initiates a find option. The remaining portion of the screen of Figure 3 forms a glossary of terms utilized by Applicant on Applicant's web site to describe the auction features and specific details of Applicant's information cataloging and retrieval system. Each term can also form a trigger that enables a user to access another screen display that further describes the term. Figure 4 is a diagram of a Search Criteria screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Find" button 140 on the screen display of Figure 3. More particularly, Figures 4A and 4B, assembled according to Figure 4, form another screen which is accessed by clicking on button 140 of Figure 3. The screen of Figures 4A and 4B provide the principal functionality of Applicant's invention to a user. A left-side portion of this page contains a vertical window bar comprising a left-side vertical frame 141 in which vaπous links 142-149 are made available to a user. Links 142-149 each form a trigger which acts like a button that allows a user to access a specific screen on the web site Accordingly, the triggers, or links, 142-149 provide links that enable navigation options for a user traveling through Applicant's web site.

For example, the "Find Item or Auction" trigger 142 enables a user to navigate back to the page of Figures 4A and 4B Similarly, the "Featured Item or Auction" trigger 143 enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 10. The "Request Notification" trigger 144 enables a user to navigate to Request Notice features made available at the screen shown in Figure 22. The "Sell at Auction" trigger 145 enables a user to navigate to a screen that allows a user to link to an auction house and location that gives appraisal information and/or consignment information as shown in Figure 16. The "Service Links" trigger 146 enables a user to navigate to a screen that advertises outside companies as shown in Figure 20. For example, an insurance company can advertise requirements for the object being bought. The "About Gebot" trigger 147 enables a user to navigate to a screen (not shown) that describes Applicant's company and business. The "Contact Us" trigger 148 enables a user to navigate to a screen (not shown) havmg a web address and mailing address for contacting the Applicant and/or web master that maintains the web site. Finally, the "Home" trigger 149 enables a user to navigate to the home page of Figure 3. It is understood that leftside vertical frame 141 (of Fig. 4) is also shown alongside Figures 5-24. However, for purposes of simplifying the drawings, such left-side vertical frame has been omitted from Figures 5-24 in order to more clearly highlight the important features that are implemented by such respective figures.

The screen of Figures 4A and 4B depicts the implementation of a categorization method that is utilized pursuant to Applicant's information cataloging and retrieval system in order to enable a user to find desired or potential items. For purposes of illustrating one exemplary implementation, Figures 4-9 will be utilized to illustrate a user who is attempting to search for a particular watercolor painting that is available at auction. The particular painting being searched for in the example is being auctioned by The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction However, the user does not yet know this information and it will be identified during the search process

The screen of Figures 4A and 4B, assembled according to Figure 4, includes a "Find an Auction" button 150 which enables a user to navigate to a screen (not shown) that displays a list of upcoming auctions in order to find a specific auction Additionally, a "Need Help" button 152 enables a user to navigate to a help screen at Figure 48. Additionally, the screen includes an auction house selection list 154, a predominant group pull-down menu (or popup) 156, a predominant use at creation pulldown menu 158, a place of origin pull-down menu 160, a date range selection list 162, and a confirmation date range block 164. Furthermore, a submit form button 166 is provided for submitting the screen of Figures 4A and 4B when the user has selected the specific information, contained within lists 154, 162, menus 156, 158, 160 and 162, and block 164, which initiates a first-level search. Reset form button 168 enables a user to reset lists 154, 162, menus 156, 158, 160 and 162, and block 164 to default selections so that the user can utilize the default selections, or re-select new items from each of lists 154, 162, menus 156, 158, 160 and 162, and block 164.

According to Figures 4A and 4B, auction house selection list 154 enables a user to select individual specific auctions, or auction houses, or to choose an "All Auction Houses" option which searches all of the auction houses listed in selection list 154 For example, one auction house is entitled "Castle Rock Auctions" which is provided within the selection area of selection list 154.

The predominant group pull-down menu 156 lists the predominant group from which a desired auction item is made and/or derives its value. One example of a predominant group is "Paint, Ink, Pencil, Chalk, Photography". Another example of a predominant group might be "Precious Metals, Precious Stones". Yet another example might be "Animal, Plant, Water, Wood". Even other examples might be "Stone, Bronze, Metal"; "Synthetic, Material, Technological Conglomerate"; and "Ceramic, Glass". For this example, the predominant group "Paint, Ink, Pencil, Chalk, Photography" describes the predominant group for a watercolor painting that is identified in greater detail with reference to Figures 8 and 9, below. The selection of such predominant group forms an attribute of the auction item which is being searched, based upon one or more truths. A watercolor painting is an object whose predominant group is "Pamt, Ink, Pencil, Chalk, Photography" since the material from which the painting is made is pamt. It is understood that the predominant group in menus 156, 158, 160 and 162 pertains to a potential auction item's function/description as it existed at the time it was created Predominant use at creation pull-down menu 158 has been selected by a user as "decorative". For the exemplary case shown here, a watercolor painting, the predominant use at creation for the auction item being searched is decorative. Another exemplary predominant use at creation for pull-down menu 158 might be "utilitarian". Yet other predominant uses at creation available via menu 158 include "recreation" and "religious".

Place of origin pull-down menu 160 enables a user to select specific geographic regions, such as countries or individual states. Here a user has selected "North America", which indicates all potential places of origin are being searched. Here, the exemplary watercolor painting search is going to search all potential places of origin. Another exemplary place of origin might be "Africa". Other examples might be "Middle America", "Europe", and "Northern Asia". Further examples might be individual states within the United States An even further example might be "All", which searches all the specific geographic regions contained within menu 160. Date range selection list 162 lists specific date ranges withm which a searcher believes a particular desired auction item might exist Accordingly, Applicant's search technique allows a user to refine the period in which a specific creator has created different items. Furthermore, a user may also select ranges of dates m which to search for an auction item. When utilizing a Microsoft Windows™ environment, such selection is made by drag-clickmg. When using an Apple Mac OS™ environment, this selection is accomplished by shift-clickmg. As shown here, "All Dates" has been selected when searching for the watercolor painting. Other date range options are shown in Figure 4 as specific ranges of years. One or more of these date ranges can be selected at one time by highlighting and clicking via a mouse. The date range that has been selected is redisplayed within confirmation date range block 164.

A submit form button, or link, 166 enables a user to initiate Applicant's search engine to conduct a search usmg the criteria selected and defined in lists 154, 162 and menus 156, 158, 160 and 162. A user clicks button 166 in order to initiate a search based upon such criteria. An option is also available to a user in order to reset the form and begin a new search using new search criteria via "Reset Form" button, or lmk, 168. A user merely needs to click onto button 168 in order to reset the form and begin a new search.

Figure 5 illustrates a screen having a category menu which results when a user selects "Submit Form" button 166 of Figure 4 The window displayed to a user changes in order to display the screen of Figure 5, which forms a first refinement of the user's auction item search. The screen of Figure 5 allows a user to select from a group of item categories that match all the criteria previously chosen m the screen of Figure 4 A category selection menu 170 contains a plurality of individual categories, such as a "Paintings" category Another example of a category is "Photographs". Yet even another example of a category is "Drawings". However, a watercolor painting falls within a "Paintings" category, and such category is selected in order to arrive at the screen of Figure 6.

Figures 6A and 6B, assembled as shown in Figure 6, illustrate a screen showing the selected "Paintings" category from Figure 5 and further including an optional sub- category menu which results when a user selects a specific category from pull-down selection menu 170 of Figure 5 The screen of Figure 6 allows a user to select from a group of optional sub-categories that follow from the "Paintings" category previously chosen m the screen of Figure 5. Sub-category selection menu 174 contains a plurality of individual sub-categories, such as a "WaterColor" sub-category Another example of a sub-category is "Oil". However, a watercolor painting falls withm a "WaterColor" sub-category, and such category is selected as shown in Figure 6

A "Find an Item" button 172 is provided so that a user can initiate a further refined search based solely upon the selection of the "Paintings" category m menu 170 Optionally, a user can refine the search even further by utilizing menu 174, boxes 176- 180, and by selecting a "Find An Item" button 182. More particularly, a user can further limit an auction item search result using optional sub-category selection menu 174, a descriptive title text box 176, a creator text box 178, and a detailed description text box 180 "Find An Item" button 172 is provided so that the further refined search can be initiated for the case where no sub- category has been selected. A search can be refined with use of as many fields as the web site allows to be posted

As shown in Figure 6, the optional sub-category m menu 174 is selected as "WaterColor" for a watercolor painting. Another example of a sub-category could be "Oil". An example of a descriptive title for text box 176 is "Landscape". Examples for a creator for text box 178 include a specific individual or group who constructs such landscape watercolor paintings. A detailed description according to text box 180 is provided so that additional information can be inserted, such as "Native American Theme". The refined search information provided by items 174-182 as shown at the bottom of the page of Figure 6 provides an optional search that allows the user to choose a sub-category based on the selected category within category selection menu 170 Optionally, a user can enter specific known data about an auction item for which they are searching. The screen of Figures 7A and 7B, assembled accordmg to Figure 7, is arrived at in response to a search which is initiated via one of buttons 170 and 182 (of Fig 6) The screen of Figure 7 shows a window which is changed to display the results of the further-refined auction item search. The screen lists all of the auction items that match the search criteria of Figure 6, with the auction items being arranged or sorted by their date of sale. Accordingly, Figure 7 is a Search Results screen display that the computer system provides to a user after selecting a category (and optionally a sub-category) from the screen of Figure 6.

According to Figure 7, a sort button bar 183 is provided across the top of the page which allows a user to sort the search results in a way that best suits a user's needs and requirements. Search results are presented as a list of items, each containing a group of information that helps the user locate when and where the item is to be sold, along with the item's title and creator. The items also display the expected price range that the item will fall between when it is sold. A request notice feature, described in detail below, is also available, which will save a search so that a notification of future sales of like items can be distπbuted to the user via the Internet.

As shown in Figure 7, sort button bar 183 includes a "Sort By" category description 188 that defines the functional purpose of button bar 183. Bar 183 includes an "Auction House" button 190, a "Date of Sale" button 192, a "Descriptive Title" button 194, and a "Creator" button 196. Selection of button 190 via a cursor and mouse enables a user to sort results alphabetically by specific auction houses. Selection of button 192 enables a user to sort results by the date of sale for an auction item. Selection of button 194 enables a user to sort results based upon an alphabetical listing of the descriptive title for the search results. Finally, button 196 enables a user to sort the results alphabetically based upon the name of the creator of each specific auction item.

Also shown in Figure 7, "Find an Auction" button 184 enables a user to navigate to a screen that displays a list of upcoming auctions. Selection of "Request Notice" button 186 enables a user to navigate to the screen shown in Figure 12 in order to implement the request notification features of Applicant's invention.

For the particular exemplary search for a watercolor painting pursuant to the search carried out in Figures 4-6, search results are shown for two items in Figure 7. In this example, the results have been sorted by date of sale via button bar 192 with further ordermg being carried out by alphabetizing the respective auction houses and descriptive titles. Scrolling down to the first search result item, we locate "Indian Signaling", a watercolor painting created by creator Charles M. Russell. The auction house name is indicated via link 200, which is entitled "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction". The date of sale is indicated by lmk 202 as August 31, 1999 The descriptive title is indicated by link 204 as "Indian Signaling". By clicking on link 204, comprising a descriptive title link, a user navigates to the screen depicted in Figure 8. According to Figure 8, a screen is shown which displays the details for the first auction item depicted in Figure 9; namely, the "Indian Signaling" watercolor painting as selected via button 204 (of Fig. 7). More particularly, Figure 8 is a diagram of a Detail Page screen display for one search result of an "Indian Signaling" watercolor painting which is provided to a user after clicking on the "Indian Signaling" trigger, or button, 204 of Figure 7.

A camera icon 206 is provided for a user in order to open a floating window that contains a sample image of the auction item; here, an "Indian Signaling" watercolor painting Accordingly, a user merely needs to click onto icon 206 in order to open such floating window. The window is closed via a normal window closing function, or a user scrolls down and clicks "Return to Previous Page" button 212, which returns the user back to the Detail Page, or screen, presented in Figure 8 The screen of Figure 8 also includes an auction house lmk 208 for "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction". Furthermore, a date of sale link 210 is shown for August 31, 1999. Links 208 and 210 enable a user to further view information on the auction house, and the details for the sale date, respectively, for the "Indian Signaling" watercolor painting.

The Detail Page depicted in Figure 8 contains most, if not all, of the information that is important to a user while conducting a search for auction items via Applicant's invention. From the screen shown in Figure 8, a user may also gather more information about the auction house which is selling the item via button 208, and about the sale itself via button 210

When a user wishes to return to any of the previous screens, or pages, in the process of conducting a search, and in order to reference information, the user can click the browser "Back" button, or can click on the "Return to Previous Page" button which is displayed within the screen. For example, a user can click button 212 in Figure 8. Furthermore, a user can obtain more information about a specific sale by clicking on the "Date of Sale" button 210 of Figure 8 which gives specific information about the sale in which the particular auction item is being featured.

Figure 9 shows an image of the "Indian Signaling" watercolor painting provided to a user after clicking on the "Click for Photo" trigger, or button, 206 of Figure 8 An actual image 212 is shown for the "Indian Signaling" watercolor painting m the screen of Figure 9. Additionally, a "Back to Detail Page" button 214 is provided which enables a user to navigate back to the detail page of Figure 8

Figure 10 is a diagram of a Featured Item screen display that the computer system of Applicant's invention provides to a user after clicking on the "Featured Item or Auction" trigger, or button, 143 (shown in Fig. 4) More particularly, Figure 10 shows a Featured Item screen that enables a user to view featured items. For example, information pertaining to a featured item is displayed to a user, and includes a "Descriptive Title" button 211, an "Auction House" button 213, and a "Date Of Sale" button 215 For example, button 21 1 shows a featured item entitled "Bison" which is available at the auction house "TM Auctions" indicated by button 213, and which is offered for sale on August 31, 1999 as indicated by button 215. The screen of Figure 10 also includes a "Featured Auctions" button 209 which enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 1 1. Two other search records are also displayed in Figure 10, each with respective buttons similar to buttons 211, 213 and 215. Figure 11 is a diagram of the "Featured Auctions" screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Featured Auctions" button 209 (of Fig. 10). The page corresponding with the screen of Figure 11 lists a featured auction dated August 31, 1999 which is retrievable via a "Date Of Sale" button 219. A sale title is also provided along with a location and information about the sale. Additionally, an "Auction House" button 221 illustrates the auction house as "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction". Additional information on the date of sale can be retrieved via button 219. Similarly, additional information pertaining to the auction house can be retrieved via button 221.

Figure 12 is a diagram of a Request Notice Identification Number and Password screen display that the computer system of Applicant's invention provides to a user after clicking on the "Request Notice" trigger, or button, 186 of Figure 7. More particularly, Figure 12 illustrates a screen that enables a user to register for a request notification. The request notification enables a user to receive notices regarding desired auction items which have not yet been posted in the database of Applicant's invention. For example, when a user does not find any auction items correspondmg to their search request within Applicant's database 124 (of Fig 1), the Request Notice feature allows a user to save their search criteria in order to be e-mailed when an item (or additional items) are posted that meet the same search criteria.

The screen of Figure 12 allows a user to register for such request notification features by submitting a request notice number via a request notice number (#) text box 216 and a password via a password box 218. The request notice number and password are initially registered by clicking on a "Register for Request Notice" button 222 to submit the request notice number and password. Once a user has been assigned the submitted request notice number and password, a user subsequently enters such information into text boxes 216 and 218 and submits such request notice number and password by clicking on a "Submit Form" button 220, which allows a user to gain access to the screen depicted in Figure 13.

In the event that a user already has an assigned request notice number and password, the user enters such information mto text boxes 216 and 218, and is prompted to confirm or reject the requested notice criteria. If the information is confirmed, the information is then sent to Applicant's web site and is stored until such time as an item is listed that matches a user's criteria. The user may then return to the Applicant's home page at Figure 3.

Figure 13 is a diagram of a Request Criteria screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" button of Figure 12. The page corresponding with the screen in Figure 13 lists what the user has chosen so far regarding the auction house, predominant group, predominant use, origin of item, time of origin of item, category, sub-category, and descriptive title (if any). A user is able to confirm the listed request criteria, or information, withm the screen by clicking on a "Confirm Request Notice" button 224. Selection of button 224 confirms the request notice information from which later subsequent matches are forwarded to a user, typically via e-mail over the Internet and/or World Wide Web (WWW). Optionally, a user can select a "Reject Request Notice" button 226, which allows a user to reject the request criteria that are already captured m the screen. In response to selecting button 226, a user is returned to the Find Item page of Figure 4 where another search query can be submitted.

Figure 14 is a diagram of a Confirmation Request Notice screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Confirm Request Notice" button of Figure 13. A confirmation is displayed that shows all of the request notification information which has been created and which will be used to search and forward to a user new items by e-mail each time a relevant item is added to Applicant's search database that matches the search criteria provided by the user, as shown in the screen of Figure 14. A user can then select a "Home" button 228 in order to go back to the home page depicted in Figure 3. Optionally, a user can select a "Find an Item" button 230 in order to navigate back to the screen of Figure 4. Figure 15 is a diagram of a Find an Auction screen display that the computer system provides to a user after navigating to such screen display after clicking on the "Find an Auction" button 150 of Figure 4 Selection of "Find an Auction" button 150 (of Fig. 4) initiates a search to locate all auction houses within the database. The screen of Figure 15 shows a window which displays the results of the auction house search The screen lists all of the auction houses contained withm the database placed m alphabetical order by auction house name.

According to Figure 15, a sort button bar 483 is provided across the top of the page which allows a user to sort the search results m a way that best suits a user's needs and requirements. Search results are presented as a list of auction houses, each containing information about the auction house that helps the user locate and identify a particular auction, as well as determine the date when the auction will be held.

According to Figure 15, sort button bar 483 mcludes a "Sort By" category description 188 that defines the functional purpose of button bar 483, an "Auction House" button 190, a "Location" button 195, and a "Date of Sale" button 192. Selection of button 190 via a cursor and mouse enables a user to sort results alphabetically by the names of specific auction houses. Selection of button 195 enables a user to sort results based upon an alphabetical listing of location for each auction. Selection of button 192 enables a user to sort results by the date of sale for a particular auction being held by the auction house.

As shown in Figure 15, three records are displayed for auctions being held by three different auction houses which are sorted alphabetically according to auction house. One exemplary auction house name is indicated via a link 229, which is entitled "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction". The date of sale for the corresponding auction is indicated by link 231 as August 31, 1999. Additionally, an auction title and location are also provided Similar information is also provided for the remaining two display records

Figure 16 is a diagram of a Sell at Auction screen display that the computer system provides to a user after navigating to such screen using the "Sell at Auction" link 145 which is provided m a left vertical frame 141 (see Fig 4). The screen display of Figure 16 allows a user to choose a category from a popup menu, or category pull- down 241, that best describes an item that the user would like to have appraised. A "Consignment Information" button 225 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 18.

As shown in Figure 16, category pull-down menu 241 mcludes a plurality of different categories such as "American Paintings, Drawings & Sculpture". Other examples of categories include "Animation & Comic Art"; "Art Nouveau & Art Deco"; "Books & Manuscripts"; "Classic Cars"; "Collectibles", and "Sports Memorabilia". A user selects one of the categories via menu 241 using a mouse-controlled cursor The user then submits such selected category by clicking on a Submit Form button 243, which submits such category selection to the web site.

Figure 17 is a diagram of an Appraisal Search Results screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" button of Figure 16. More particularly, the screen of Figure 17 includes a sort button bar 583 which is provided across the top of the page, and which allows a user to sort auction houses that will render an appraisal in a way that best suits a user's needs and requirements. The search results are presented as a list of items, each containing a group of information that helps a user locate a particular auction house from which they are considering requesting an appraisal.

More particularly, sort button bar 583 includes a "Sort By" category description 188 that defines the functional purpose of button bar 583 Button bar 583 also includes an "Auction House" button 190, a "Location" button 195, and a "Stats" (Statistics) button 197. Selection of button 190 causes sorting to be rendered alphabetically by the names of specific auction houses. Selection of button 195 renders sorting alphabetically by the location of each auction house. Selection of button 197 enables viewing of auction house sales statistics such as success of items sold at a particular auction or on block. As shown in Figure 17, a listing is provided of auction houses willing to render an appraisal to the user, with the auction houses bemg listed alphabetically. As shown in Figure 17, only a single display record is illustrated. However, it is understood that multiple display records can be shown. Help is provided to a user by selecting "Need Help Click Here" button 245, which provides a help screen to a user that explains details relating to the screen of Figure 17. An auction house button 247 is shown identifying "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction" in one instance. Selection of button 247 by a user enables a user to navigate to the screen shown in Figure 45.

Figure 18 is a diagram of a Consignment Information Category screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Consignment Information" button 225 of Figure 16. More particularly, the screen of Figure 18 includes an "Appraisal Information" button 249 that allows a user to navigate back to the screen of Figure 16.

As shown in Figure 18, consignment information for a particular auction house is provided to a user based upon a category which is selected by the user via a popup menu, or category pull-down menu, 251. Menu 251 enables a user to select one of a group of categories that best describes the item that the user would like to consign to auction Following such selection via a cursor and mouse, the user submits such selection by clicking "Submit Form" button 253 which submits the selected category to the web site. Example categories include "American Paintings, Drawings & Sculpture". Additional categories includes those exemplary categories that were already provided with reference to pull-down menu 241 (of Fig. 16).

Figure 19 is a diagram of a Consignment Search Results screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" button 253 of Figure 18. More particularly, a sort button bar 683 is provided across the top of the page which allows a user to sort the search results in a manner substantially the same as sort button bar 583 (of Fig. 17). Button bar 683 includes category description 188, and buttons 190, 195 and 197. As shown in Figure 19, a single display record is shown, although additional records can be provided alphabetically by auction house, or depending upon which button 190, 195 and 197 is selected, in an order that is prescribed by one of the other sorting techniques dictated by buttons 195 and 197. According to Figure 19, a "Need Help Click Here" button 255 navigates a user to a help screen that helps a user utilize the functionality provided in Figure 19. An "Auction House" button 257 is provided in the displayed records of Figure 19. As shown in Figure 19, button 257 identifies "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction". A user can click on button 257 to obtain general information about the consignment procedure for "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction", as shown in Figure 44.

Figure 20 is a diagram of an Insurance Information screen display showing insurance information that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Services Links" trigger 146 of Figure 4. The screen of Figure 20 includes a "Shipping Information" button 259 which enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 21 , which provides shipping information. Figure 20 illustrates insurance information, including an insurance company logo and an insurance company link 271 that enables a user to navigate to a particular insurance company's web site. As shown in Figure 20, link 271 enables a user to navigate to a web site provided for "ACME Insurance Associates, Inc.". Figure 21 is a diagram of a Shipping Information screen display showing shipping information that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Shipping Information" button 259 of Figure 20. As shown in Figure 21 , a plurality of different shipping companies are identified Each shipping company includes an advertising logo and a company web site link 275, which enables a user to navigate to a web site provided for "Acme Express". Additionally, similar links are provided for the remaining listed companies An "Insurance" button 273 enables a user to navigate back to the screen display of Figure 20.

Figure 22 is a diagram of a User Registration Request Notification screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the register for request notice button 222 of Figure 12 (as well as request notice button 144 of Figure 4). More particularly, Applicant's web site will notify a user of an upcoming sale of any items that the user has identified as being of interest A "User Request Notice Text Box Field" 279, containing an individual text box, is provided within the screen of Figure 22. A user fills out the text boxes withm text box field 279, then submits such information by selecting "To Request a Registration Number Click Here" button 281. In response, a user receives a user identification number. At the time of entry, a user provides their own selected password via text box field 279. A "Need Help Click Here" button 277 enables a user to access help information relating to the details of the screen depicted in Figure 22 Such help is provided via a separate screen (not shown). Selection of button 281 enables a user to navigate to the screen display depicted in Figure 23.

Figure 23 is a diagram of a Request Notification Registration Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "To Request a Registration Number Click Here" button 281 of Figure 22. More particularly, the screen of Figure 23 displays the request notification registration information to a user. If the displayed information is correct, the user clicks a "To Submit Form Click Here" button 283, which navigates a user to the screen of Figure 24 If a user wishes to modify or delete the displayed information, the user merely clicks a "To Modify Click Here" button 285, which returns a user to the screen display of Figure 22 and enables a user to re-enter such registration information via text box field 279 (of Fig. 22)

Figure 24 is a diagram of Request Notification Registration Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "To Submit Form Click Here" button 283 (of Fig. 23). More particularly, registration information for the user is displayed m the screen of Figure 24, including the user's registration number and password. A "To Continue Click Here" button 287 is provided which enables a user to return to the screen display of Figure 4.

The screen of Figure 25 illustrates a diagram of a Sale Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Date of Sale" button 192 of Figure 7 More particularly, sale information is provided for the "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction" which will occur on August 31, 1999. A vertical window bar comprising a left-side vertical frame 232 is concurrently displayed containing links 233-239. Additionally, an auction logo block 242 is provided for displaying a logo for The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction A "Sale Information" link 237 enables a user to access the general sale information shown in Figure 25. The "Auction House Information" link 238 enables a user to navigate to the general auction house information. From there, the user can display general information about the organization in question. For example, where a user wants more information about the specific auction house they intend to buy an item from, the user can click onto the "Auction House Information" link 238 shown in left frame 232 of Figure 25.

Links 233-239 of left-side vertical frame 232 enable a user to quickly navigate between the screens of Figures 3 and 25-36. An "Index of Sale" lmk 233 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 26. A "Features" link 234 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 27. A "Department Information" lmk 235 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 33. A "Bidding Information" link 236 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 28 A "Sale Information" link 237 enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 25. An "Auction House Information" link 238 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 37. A "Back Gebot" link 239 allows a user to return back and navigate to the screen of Figure 3.

Figure 26 is a diagram of an Index of Sale screen display that the computer system provides to a user in response to a user selecting "Index of Sale" button 233 in left frame 232 (which is shown in Figure 25). It is understood that left-side vertical frame 232 (of Fig. 25) is also provided alongside Figures 26-36 However, for purposes of simplifying the drawings, such left-side vertical frame has been omitted from Figures 26-36 in order to more clearly highlight the important features that are implemented by such respective figures. As shown in Figure 26, an auction advertising logo block 242 is provided in this screen. The screen depicted in Figures 26A and 26B, assembled according to Figure 26, is navigated to by selecting the "Index of Sale" link 233 of Figure 25. The screen of Figure 26 lists 293 items that were found in the index of sale. Items 1-25 are displayed on the screen of Figure 26. As shown in Figure 26, only the first three items are depicted, with the remaining items 4-25 being displayed by scrolling down through the screen using window functionality features. Display records 1-25 are shown on a first page, as depicted in Figure 26. However, a "Next Page of Records" button 289 enables access of additional pages wherein each page contains 25 records Therefore, the remaining records 26-293 can be accessed by selecting button 289 successively so as to display 25 records on each successive page. As shown in Figure 26, each display record includes an "Auction House Button" 292 which allows a user to navigate to a window that provides information about that specific auction house. Here button 292 allows a user to obtain information about "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction" auction house via button 292 which navigates the user to Figure 37 A "Date of Sale" button 294 is shown indicating a date of sale of August 31 , 1999. Selection of button 294 enables a user to obtain complete information about that sale by accessing a separate, dedicated screen. A "Descriptive Title" button 296, shown as "Design Maker" in Figure 26, allows a user to obtain information about that specific item. Similar information and buttons are provided with respect to the second and third display records shown in Figure 26.

Figure 27 is a diagram of a Featured Items for Sale screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Features" link 234 of left frame 232 (see Fig. 25) More particularly, the screen of Figure 27 illustrates featured information corresponding with the general sale information depicted in Figure 25. A "Descriptive Title" button 248 is provided in such screen. "Scattering the Riders" is provided as one descriptive title for link 248. An "Auction House" button 291 is also provided which enables a user to access information on the auction house, and is shown as "The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction". Furthermore, a "Date of Sale" button 293 is provided which enables a user to access information relating to the specific sale being provided at such date. As shown in Figure 27, button 293 identifies a particular date of sale of August 31, 1999.

As shown in Figure 27, the "Features" lmk 234 (see Fig. 25) enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 27 which displays items the auction house has tagged as featured items for an upcoming sale. It also shows any important general information about these featured items. The screen of Figure 27 provides a description of a particular sale, identifying the items that are planned to be auctioned at such sale.

Figure 28 is a diagram of a Bidding Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding Information" lmk shown in left frame 232 (of Fig. 25). More particularly, the screen of Figure 28 includes auction logo block 242 which forms an advertising logo for The Coeur d'Alene Art Auction scheduled for August 31, 1999. Figure 28 shows links for obtaining bidding information for such auction via buttons 302, 304, 306 and 308. More particularly, a "Bidding on Location" button 302 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 29. A "Bidding Via Absentee" button 304 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 30. A "Bidding Via Telephone" button 306 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 31. A "Bidding Via Internet" button 308 allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 32

Figure 29 is a diagram of a Bidding on Location screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding on Location" button 302 of Figure 28. More particularly, the screen of Figure 29 provides bidding information for a individual that plans on attending the auction sale. A "Previous Page" button 310 enables a user to navigate back to the screen of Figure 28.

Figure 30 is a diagram of a Bidding via Absentee screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding via Absentee" button 304 of Figure 28. More particularly, the screen of Figure 30 provides bidding information for a user that is planning on bidding on auction items by absentee ballot. A "Previous Page" button 312 enables a user to return back to the screen of Figure 28 by clicking on button 312.

Figure 31 is a diagram of a Bidding via Telephone screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding via Telephone" button 306 of Figure 28. More particularly, the screen of Figure 31 provides bidding information for a user that is planning on bidding on the auction by way of telephone. A "Previous Page" button 314 enables a user to navigate back to the screen of Figure 28. Figure 32 is a diagram of a Bidding via Internet screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Bidding via Internet" button 308 of Figure 28 More particularly, the screen of Figure 32 provides bidding information for a user that intends to bid at an auction using the Internet. A "Previous Page" button 316 enables a user to navigate back to the screen of Figure 28 Figure 33 is a diagram of a Department Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Department Information" button 235 of Figure 25. More particularly, the screen of Figure 33 contains contact information for several departments. One exemplary department is "American Paintings, Drawings & Sculpture". Another example for a department is "Books & Manuscripts" Furthermore, Figure 33 includes the following links: a "Conditions of Sale" button 250, which allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 34, a "Terms of Guaranty" button 252, which allows a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 35; and a "Glossary of Terms" button 254, which enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 36.

Figure 34 is a diagram of a Conditions of Sale screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Conditions of Sale" lmk 250 of Figure 33. More particularly, the screen of Figure 34 provides to a user the conditions of sale of an auction that is being considered by the user A "Previous Page" link 256 is provided for returning to the previous page, or screen, depicted in Figure 33. A user merely needs to click on link 256 in order to return to the bidding information of the screen of Figure 33. Figure 35 is a diagram of a Terms of Guaranty screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the terms of guaranty lmk 252 of Figure 33. More particularly, the screen of Figure 35 compπses a window containing information about warranties made by the auction house. Such information includes limitations to the warranty. "Previous Page" lmk 356 is provided at the bottom of the screen on Figure 35 which enables a user to quickly return, or navigate, back to the screen of Figure 33.

Figure 36 is a diagram of a Glossary of Terms screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the glossary of terms link 254 of Figure 33. More particularly, the screen of Figure 36 brings up a new window containing information about glossary terms. A "Previous Page" link 456 is also provided at the bottom of the screen of Figure 36 which enables a user to quickly navigate back to the screen of Figure 33

It is further understood that the sale information lmk 237 (see Fig. 25) enables a user to navigate or return to the sale information shown at Figure 25. Furthermore, the "Auction House Information" link 238 enables a user to navigate to the general auction house information shown at Figure 37 and described below.

Figure 37 is a diagram of a general Auction House Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Auction House Information" link 238 of left frame 232 (shown in Figure 25). More particularly, the screen of Figure 37 provides general auction house information, and further provides left frame 258 which includes an "Upcoming Auctions" lmk 260, an "Addresses" link 261 , a "Department Information" link 262, a "Consignment Information" 263, an "Appraisal Information" link 264, a "Post Sales Information" link 265, an "Auction House Information" link 266, an "Auction House Web Page" lmk 267, and a "Back to Gebot" link 268.

Upon arriving at the screen of Figure 37, the window changes to display the general auction house information. In this portion of Applicant's web site, auction houses' general rules and information are available for viewing by a user. The user can navigate to and target specific information about the auction house by accessing links within a left frame 258 (see Fig 37). The screen of Figure 37 describes generic auction house information such as whom to contact. For purposes of describing Figures 37-45, it is understood that left frame 258 (see Figs 37-39) is provided alongside the screen depicted in such figures. However, for purposes of simplifying the drawings, left frame 258 has been omitted and has only been shown with respect to Figures 37-39. Figure 38 is a diagram of an Upcoming Auctions screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Upcoming Auctions" link 260 m left frame 258 (of Fig. 37). More particularly, the screen of Figure 38 includes a lmk, in the form of a specific auction button 318, which enables a user to navigate to specific information about the particular upcoming auction. Figure 39 is a diagram of an Auction House Address screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Addresses" link 261 of left frame 258 (of Fig. 38). More particularly, the location screen of Figure 39 displays the physical location of the auction house, as well as the mailing address for the auction house Figure 40 is a diagram of a Department Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Department Information" link 262 of left frame 258 (see Figs. 37-39) The screen of Figure 40 shows department information which lists all the specialty departments offered by the auction house alphabetically by department name. Each department's contact person, telephone and fax number are provided. Additionally, several links are provided for each department. For example, department "American Paintings, Drawings & Sculpture" includes a "Conditions of Sale" button 350 which enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 41. A "Terms of Guaranty" button 352 enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 42 A "Glossary of Terms" button 354 enables a user to navigate to the screen of Figure 43.

Figure 41 is a diagram of a Conditions of Sale screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Conditions of Sale" button 350 of Figure 40. More particularly, the screen of Figure 41 provides the terms and conditions of sale for the specific auction, as well as a consignor's entire agreement with the purchaser relative to the property that is listed in a particular auction catalog. A "Previous Page" button 320 is provided to enable a user to return to the screen of Figure 40

Figure 42 is a diagram of a Terms of Guaranty screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Terms of Guaranty" button 352 of Figure 40. More particularly, the screen of Figure 42 provides the terms of guaranty for the particular art auction made by the auction house A "Previous Page" button 322 enables a user to navigate back to the screen of Figure 40.

Figure 43 is a diagram of a Glossary of Terms screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Glossary of Terms" button 354 of Figure 40. More particularly, the screen of Figure 43 provides a list of terms used in the auction catalog having the identified meaning ascribed thereto. A "Previous Page" button 324 enables a user to navigate back to the screen of Figure 40.

Figure 44 is a diagram of a Consignment Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Consignment Information" trigger 263 of Figure 37. More particularly, the screen of Figure 44 provides consignment information which gives a user information that is needed in order to consign items for an upcoming auction.

Figure 45 is a diagram of an Appraisal Information screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Appraisal Information" trigger 264 of Figure 37. More particularly, the screen of Figure 45 provides information on the preparation of appraisals which gives a user information that is needed when a user wants to have an item appraised.

With reference to left window frame 258 (see Figs. 37-39), the "Post Sales

Information" lmk 265 enables a user to navigate to a screen that lists sales that have already occurred, which items were sold, and for how much such items were sold No corresponding figure is provided herein showing such screen.

Figure 46 is a diagram of a code table for database categories for English language nouns mapping the first portion code for a string for various categorized items including a computer that is utilized as a Technological Conglomerate. In order to better understand Applicant's categorization and help techniques, a description is provided below of a database for finding searchable auction items. More particularly,

Applicant's database 124 (of Fig. 1) categorizes most, if not all, nouns that are found within the English language By doing so, Applicant's information cataloging and retrieval system 100 (of Fig 1) can limit searches and can accurately return information to a user. An example is provided below using an auction item comprising a computer.

When categorizing an item in the database, several questions are asked- A) What is the item made of? B) What is it used for⁷ and C) Where does it fit within the category structure? After determining what the item is made of, it is assigned the first value in a string. The string continues to grow until the item finds its most refined place Applicant's invention then defines what a computer is made of, as Technological Conglomerate, and assigns a code of 00000F (see Fig. 46) The screen of Figure 46 includes code table 278, which maps specific six-character codes to specific groups of materials. In this manner, attributes are assigned a code value which enables accurate selection by a user cataloging and/or searching for auction items. As shown in Figure 46, a code "00000F" corresponds with the mateπal in the category of "Synthetic Material, Technological Conglomerate". The first portion of the string for Computer is 00000FI

Applicant's invention then defines what a computer is used for, as both Recreation and Utilitarian, and assigns codes of OOOOOC and OOOOOE. This allows users looking for business computers and those looking for game computers such as Sony Playstation or Nintendo, to be separated Gebot adapts and refines based on the users' individual needs, thus providing more complementary results as shown m Figure 47

Figure 47 is a diagram of a code table containing second portion codes for the first portion string provided m the table of Figure 46 More particularly, a code table 280 is provided containing second portion codes for the enumerated uses shown therein. One exemplary code, "OOOOOE", is tabulated with a use of "Utilitarian", which corresponds to a utilitarian usage for a recreational computer. As shown in Figure 47, the string for Recreation Computers is 0O0OOF|O0000C, and the string for Business Computers is 0O000F|000OOE

To understand how Gebot categorizes an item such as a computer, an explanation of how categorization works is warranted. Applicant's invention implements categorization based upon the hierarchical placement of nouns. Using the above example, the item computer is the sub-category of electronics. Accordingly, the text equivalent of the string for a game computer is:

Technological Conglomerate, Recreation, Electronics, Computer. For a business computer: Technological Conglomerate, Utilitarian, Electronics, Computer.

The string values for electronics and computer are determined by their respective places within their categories. For this example, we will assign 00000S to electronics, and OOOQDR to computer. Thus the string value for a game computer is: 00000F|00000C|00000S|000QDR, and 00000F|00000E|00000S|000QDR is the string value for a business computer. The following is an example for a complete string for a game computer: OOOOOF|00OOOC|OOOOOS|OOOQDR. The following is an example for a complete string for a business computer: 00000F|O00OOE|0O000S|00OQDR. As the user inputs a search, Applicant's invention builds a string upon which to search. Each item in the database may have more than one code depending on how many different ways it is used. In the computer example there were two uses' Recreation and Utilitarian If a user searched for a business machine, the results would never include computers that were built for games

Further explanation is warranted for describing the operation of the help database. The help database works in much the same manner as the find database with one very important exception: closely related or identical items have the same string

Thus when looking for a cat, the help database advises that Applicant's invention lists cats as feline, as shown in Figure 48.

Figure 48 is a diagram of a Help Database screen display that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the help database, or "Need Help" button 152 of Figure 5 As shown in Figure 48, a "Definitions" link is provided for accessing a definitions list (not shown). A "Find" lmk 284 is provided for finding specifics about help information. A "Placing an Item" link 286 is provided to generate a screen that helps a user determine how to place an item. Additionally, a "How to Text Block" 288 is provided which helps a user determine how to place an item, and allows the user to type m the specific item mto block 288, and submit such query via a "Submit Form"

Figure 49 is a diagram of a help database that assists a user in placing an item screen display for a "watercolor" that the computer system provides to a user after clicking on the "Submit Form" link 290 of Figure 48. The help database does a reverse look-up, meaning it takes "watercolor", finds its string value, and backtracks up the string to determine how the item is placed. Applicant's invention displays this on the help screen allowing users to easily understand how the item is categorized. The user then takes this information to the Find Item page and performs a search. Further according to the above disclosure of Figures 1-49, various additional embodiments and implementations are envisioned. For example, an apparatus and method are provided for cataloging items.

Accordmg to one additional aspect of the mvention, a method is provided for remotely mechanizing the archiving of items within memory of a server over a communication link from a client. The method includes- providing a list of attributes for a potential item viewable at the client; observing an item to determine at least one attribute of the item; from the client, associating an attribute with the item, the attribute selected from a list of potential attributes for the item; and remotely archiving the item from the client by submitting the associated attribute and the item from the client to the server According to another additional aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided which is adapted and arranged for remotely mechanizing the cataloging of items within memory of a server within a client-server environment. The apparatus includes a client and a communication link. The client has a user interface and a web browser. The communication link signal couples the client with a server having a database in which items are catalogued. The client is configured to run an application operative to provide a list of attributes for a potential item that is viewable at the client. The user can observe an item to determine at least one attribute of the item, can associate an attribute selected from a list of attributes for the item, and can remotely catalog the item from the client by submitting the associated attribute and the item with the web browser of the client to the server.

Pursuant to an aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided for finding all similarly catalogued items. The apparatus includes a computer system, a network, a client computer, a web server, and a similar item program. According to one of several techniques, a single item of interest is located on the web server, withm a database. Once the single item is located, a query is used to locate all items withm the database having the same attributes and same object categories as the smgle item. One way of locating the single item is to conduct a word search. Another way is to browse through the database usmg a client-based web browser According to one construction of a database, several tables are provided withm the database. One table contains information about specific individual items, as well as information about classification of such items. Each item compπses a record that is provided within the database. Another table contains information about requests for items of interest. Even further tables contain information about item classification. A. Item Classification

In order to classify an item, a user first makes a choice from one of a plurality of different code values contained within a first code field. The selected code value represents a selected attribute from a list of potential attributes for the item. Accordingly, each of the potential attributes corresponds with a code value withm the code field. In response, a record for the item in the server database is supplied with a code (or code value) that is specific to the first choice made by the user. Accordingly, such code value is indicative of the associated attribute.

Secondly, the code value from the first field is utilized to conduct a search withm the database. Results from the search supply data for making a second choice for a second field. Subsequently, a user then makes a choice for the second field. A code value is added to the record in the database for the item by supplying a code value to the database that is specific to the second choice that is made by the user when they are classifying the item

Subsequently, a search is done in the database utilizing the code values for the first field and the second field, as discussed above. The results of such search supply data for making a third choice for a third code field. Accordingly, the user makes a choice of a code value from a list of potential code values for the third code field. The database record for the item is then supplied with the specific code value which was selected for the third choice

Next, a search is done in the server database using the selected code values for the first, second and third code fields, as discussed above. The results of such search supply data which is used by an individual classifying the item when selecting the next code value for the next code field. For example, the code values which are selected for the first, second and third code fields are utilized and considered by a user who is classifying an item when they select a code value for a fourth, fifth, sixth, or greater number code field Such result occurs because the code values for greater number subsequent code fields can be functionally related and dependent on the previously selected code values, as will be indicated clearly below with reference to several examples

Accordmgly, the same sequence for selecting code values for specific code fields continues until all the code fields have been supplied with data As a result, a code string for the classified item is constructed by an individual who makes observations about attributes of the item being classified. Observations of the item being classified are then utilized to select code values for each code field which correspond with an attribute of the item from a plurality of potential attributes within the code field for that item. The resulting identification code string is specific to the item which the individual has categorized

Furthermore, additional data is supplied about the item which is being classified. However, such information is not supplied withm the identification code string. Such information may only be searched utilizing a "word search" technique. For example, the word description of the item which has been classified, or the name of the creator of the item can be searchable by utilizing traditional "word search" techniques that search the words of a document or database m order to determine the presence of one or more specific words. For example, the name of the creator of the item can be utilized in order to search for items which were created by such individual from within a database. All of the above information, including the code string and the additional "word search" data, is stored in one record within the database. The information contains the code values relating to choices made by a user when classifying the item, as well as additional information which the user has entered, such as the name of the item or the creator of the item which has been classified.

Accordingly, one desirable feature provided by Applicant's invention is the ability to conduct on-line placement or cataloging of items from a client computer onto a remote database server. Applicant's web server computer allows an individual, or a business, to place information about their business as well as inventory, such as items, directly on-line within the database of Applicant's web server computer. In order to do this, the user or business only needs an Internet connection and a current web browser in order to keep information such as cataloged items currently updated on a daily or even a mmute-to-minute basis. The cataloging or categorization of such items are placed onto Applicant's web server computer via a client using the inductive categorization or cataloging techniques of Applicant's invention. B. Performing a Search

Once an item has been classified by a user selecting code values indicative of selected attributes for each code field, as well as providing additional information for "word search" techniques, the resulting code string and additional information can be searched utilizing techniques from Applicant's invention. More particularly, a user conducts a search by making a choice for a code value (or an attribute) for a first code field of a code string. The search is carried out m the server database, utilizing the code value selected by the user for the code field, as descπbed above. The resulting search supplies data which is utilized when the user makes a choice for the second code field Next, the user makes a choice for a code value (or an attribute) for the second code field. As a result, a search is conducted within the server database utilizing the code values selected for the first and second code fields, as described above. The resulting search supplies data for making a third choice for the code values of the third code field. Accordingly, the user then makes a choice for the code value (or attribute) for the third code field. As a result, a search is conducted within the server database utilizing the selected code values for the first, second and third code fields, as discussed above. The search then supplies data that is utilized by the searcher m making a choice for a code value for a fourth code field The above search sequence continues through subsequent code fields until all code fields withm a code string have been supplied with data, and a resulting code string has been constructed. Additionally, the user may optionally enter additional information about the item in order to perform a "word search". For example, the description of the item or the creator of the item can be added textually in a manner which enables such descriptions to be "word searchable" within the resulting database. Such description is merely mapped in association with the resulting code string, or is appended to such code string

Finally, an item table within the server database, created by classifying a plurality of individual items utilizing the technique discussed above, is searched utilizing the search code string which was generated directly above. Additionally, the item table can also be searched utilizing the additional information via a "word search" technique that scans for specific words. For example, the item table can be searched for an identical description of the item, or the name of a desired creator of the item. As a consequence, search results are returned to the user, typically at a client that is coupled to the server from which the database is provided. One technique entails utilizing a web browser at a client to conduct a search of the item table of the database at the server. C. Finding Similar Items

Once an item table has been constructed by classifying a plurality of items, similar items can be found utilizing the following technique. First, a user identifies or locates an item of personal interest to them utilizing any of a number of search or listing techniques. For example, the user might conduct a word search of the database to identify an item of interest to them. Another technique entails "browsing" a web site that provides access to the server database from which the user visually identifies and locates an item of interest. Once the user finds such item of interest, the user is provided with a user interface button entitled "Find Similar" which enables the user to find a similar item. More particularly, selection of such "Find Similar" button causes a code string that is specific to the code fields for the item of interest to be loaded directly into memory. This loaded code string is then used to search the item table for items that match the code string By searching the item table for items that match the code string, a results list is generated of one or more items having attributes that correspond with those embedded within the code string. Finally, a results list is returned to the user, typically by forwarding results from the server to a client where the user has accessed the database.

Accordingly, utilization of an inductive search technique allows users to find similarly cataloged items. Accordingly, the search technique is provided through use of inductive categorization of items which are added to the database of Applicant's web server computer.

D. Implementing Request Notice

As previously discussed with Figures 7, 12-14, and 22-24, a Request Notice feature is provided to users of the database server. More particularly, the Request Notice feature can be summarized as follows. First, a user finds an item of interest using one of any search or listing techniques, as discussed above. As discussed in Figure 12, the user then clicks on "Request Notice". A code string specific to code fields for the item is then loaded mto memory. The code string is identified when the user chooses code values (or attributes) for each code field of a code string corresponding to the item, as described below with reference to Figure 13. Following loading of the fields (or code string) into memory, the user enters additional information about the item. For example, the user enters "word searchable" information such as a price range for the item, or a specific name for the creator of the item. Subsequently, the user then enters their e-mail address as shown in Figure 22. As a result, the user will receive an e-mail each time an item is added to the database that matches the search criteria embedded withm, or provided by, the code string and additional information about the item which have been provided to the server

The above information is stored in a separate "Requests" table withm the server database Periodically, such as once a day, the information in the "Requests" table of the database is compared to any new data that is provided within the "Items" table of the server database. When a match is found between the "Requests" table and the "Items" table, an e-mail is then sent to the user of the "Request Notice" feature, informing the user of one or more matches for items which have been identified via the comparison between tables.

The "Request Notice" feature uses the inductive search techniques of Applicant's web server computer, thereby allowing users to save search criteria so that they will be notified of the availability of desired items. One technique of notifying the individuals is by way of e-mail notifications. Such request notification feature is directly tied to use of Applicant's inductive categorization techniques. Although a user may not know how all similar objects or items are located, the ability to find such items is made possible using the inductive categorization and search techniques of Applicant's invention

Figure 50 illustrates two examples of an identification code string for a classified item, an exemplary search code string for a user search for a particular group of classified items, and three results that were obtained by conducting a search utilizing the search code string example above

As shown in Figure 50, exemplary identification code strings for two classified items and a search code string for all classifieds withm a defined area are provided in rows 1-3 of the table in Figure 50. Additionally, the code strings for three results obtained from the search code string are provided in rows 4-6. Furthermore, identification code strings and search code strings comprise code values that are located in specific code fields (1-17), identifying specific attributes of a specific item that has been classified, or items which are being searched. Code fields (1-17) comprise columns identified by "code (1) - code (17)". Additionally, the last column in the table of Figure 50 is provided for containing textual, "word-searchable" information comprising "other field information text" which is searchable using "word search" techniques.

Rows 1-2 represent code strings for classified items which would be found in an "Items" table with a server database. Row 3 comprises a search code string which would be compared with each entry withm the "Items" table in order to locate items present within the "Items" table that match the search criteria provided withm the search code string. Rows 4-6 provide exemplary results which are produced by searching an "Items" table, utilizing the search code string in Row 3 Example A of Figure 50 comprises a code string for one exemplary classified item The code string is made up of code values placed withm each code field (1) - code field (17), wherein each code field contains a number of unique attributes, each identified by a specific code value. Such attributes are selected within each code field in order to identify an item. Accordingly, each code field represents a specific category, and selection of a code value for each code field further identifies an item having the desired attributes.

According to Example A, code field (1) of the code string provides a unique associated identification (I.D.) by selecting a code value for such code field (1). One exemplary code value comprises "00001" as shown in Figure 50. Code field (2) contains a code value representing a unique classified identification (I.D.) for the item of Example A. Accordingly, the code value of code field (2) is shown as "0000A". Code field (3) comprises a code value of 0 (or nullity), shown as "00000", because the item of Example A is a classified item, and is not an item for a "sale and show".

Code field (4) also contains a code value equal to 0, shown as "00000", because the item of Example A is not a "news" item. Code field (5) contains a code value representing a unique item identification (I.D.), and is shown as "00OOA". Code field (6) contains a code value representing a specific "industry" which is chosen from a list to which the item best fits the selected industry As shown in Figure 50, such selected industry has a code value of "0000A".

Code field (7) contains a code value for a sub-mdustry chosen from a list generated by a choice of sub-industries. As shown in Figure 50, the code value for the sub-industry chosen comprises "0000A". Other exemplary sub-industry choices for code values comprise "0000B", "0000C", and "0000D".

Code field (8) contains a code value chosen from an item list or a service list. As shown in Figure 50, the selected code value for the item of Example A comprises "0000A".

Code field (9) contains a code value chosen from a "material" list. As shown in Figure 50, the code value selected for the item of Example A comprises "0000A". Such code value for code field (9) is selected from a list of code values that are determined based upon the code value selected for the code field (8). Accordingly, the selectable code field values for code field (9) are directly dependent on the selected code value from code field (8). Hence, code values for code field (9) cannot be selected until a specific code value has been selected for code field (8) since the code values from code field (9) which are selectable depend from the selected code values for code field (8). Code field (10) contains a code value chosen from a "state" list indicating various states of the item of Example A. As was the case within the code values from code field (9), the code values made available for selection at code field (10) comprise a list of attributes, each represented by a code value, which is determined by the code value selected from code field (8) for the item of Example A. Accordingly, mterdependency is illustrated for the selection of code values which are contained withm certain code fields in the table of Figure 50. However, other code fields contain a selection of code values which are not dependent upon the selection of code values from other code fields, as was the case with the code values contained within code fields (1) - (8) The code value of code field (10) is illustrated as "0000A". Code field (1 1) contains a code value "0000A" chosen from a "Use" list, indicating a use for the item of Example A. As was the case for the selection of code values available withm code fields (9) and (10), the selection of code values withm code field (1 1) are determined by the code value selected for code field (8).

Code field (12) contains a code value "0000A", which was chosen from a "Category/ 1" list for categories that identify the item of Example A. The selection of code values that are made available for the "Category/ 1" list is determined from the code values selected for the code fields (6) - (11). Accordingly, the code values presented for selection within code field (12) are dependent on the selected code values from code fields (6) - (1 1). Hence, there is a multiple dependency on prior selected code values from previous code fields. Code field (13) contains a code value "0000A" chosen from a "Category/2" list.

The "Category/2" list of selectable code values is determined from the code values selected withm code fields (6) - (12).

Code field (14) contains a code value "0000 A" chosen from a "Category/3" list. The "Category/3" list is determined from the code values selected for code fields (6) - (13)

Code field (15) contains a code value "0000A" chosen from a "Category/4" list. The "Category/4" list of code values is determined from the code values selected for code fields (6) - (14).

Code field (16) contains a code value "0000A" chosen from an "Origin" list which is not dependent on the code values chosen for any previous code fields.

Code field (17) contains a code value "0000A" chosen from a "Date" list. Accordingly, different code values correspond with different dates, or ranges of dates, such as a designated period of time; for example, "1910-1940". Accordingly, a user who is classifying the item of Example A chooses a range of dates by selecting a code value from withm code field (17) corresponding with the range of dates that form an attribute of the item of Example A.

Example B m the table of Figure 50 illustrates an identification code string for an item comprising a painting created by Charles M. Russell. More particularly, the item comprises an oil on canvas by Charles M. Russell entitled "Whose Meat?". Such classified item was placed withm the database of the database server by Glacier Gallery utilizing a client which remotely communicates with the database server.

As shown in Figure 50, code field (1) contains a code value "00020" which corresponds with an attribute of the item comprising an associate user identification number corresponding with "Glacier Gallery" In this instance, "Glacier Gallery" comprises an associate of Applicant's web site that has accessed the "Items" table of the server database to catalog the item of Example B within the database. More particularly, code field (2) contains a code value "0000A" which indicates that a classified item has been placed on-line by "Glacier Gallery" at the server database.

Code field (3), indicating a "sale and show", and code field (4), indicating news, are each a nullity, or "00000", because the associate "Glacier Gallery" is placing a classified item into the server database. Optionally, the associate can place a "sale and show" item, or a "news" item, instead of a classified item. In such cases, a code value would be present within the respective code fields (3) or (4)

Code field (5) for the item of Example B is assigned a selected code value automatically by the database server to have a value of "00SCI". Such code value comprises a database reference point that identifies the item withm the database. One possible technique entails assigning an item code value by incrementally and sequentially generating alpha-numeric sequences for successively-entered new items which are being added to a database.

Code field (6) contains a code value "OOOOC" which indicates that "Glacier Gallery" is placing a painting on-line. Code value "OOOOC" corresponds with an attribute comprising "Arts and Antiquities". Such attribute "Arts and Antiquities" comprises an attribute of the item of Example B.

Code field (7) for the item of Example B contains a code value "0000F" which indicates an attribute for a sub-industry comprising "Western Art" which comprises a sub-industry attribute for the item of Example B.

Code field (8) for the item of Example B contains a code value "0000A" corresponding with a "Item" attribute. Similarly, code field (9) contains a code value "OOOOC" corresponding with a "Material/Synthetic" attribute for the "Material" code field

(9). Code field (10) contains a code value "0000B" which corresponds with a "Static" attribute for the item of Example B within the "State" code field (10).

Code field (1 1) contains a code value "0000E" for the "Use" code field corresponding with a "Decoration" attribute.

Code field (12) contains a code value "0000D" for the "Category/1" code field corresponding with a "Flat Art" attribute for the item of Example B

Code field (13) contains a code value "OOOOC" for the "Category/2" code field correspondmg with a "Paintings" attribute for the item of Example B.

Code field (14) contains a code value "0000B" for the "Category/3" code field corresponding with a "Oil on Canvas" attribute for the item of Example B Code field (15) contains a code value "00000", or a nullity set, because there exists no "Category/4" option for the catalog item of Example B.

Code field (16) contains a code value "OOOOC" for a "Origin" code field corresponding with a "North America" attribute for the place of origin for the item of

Example B. Code field (17) contains a code value "0000K" for the "Date of Origin" code field comprising a "1900-1919" attribute for the "Date of Origin" for the item of Example B. It is understood that other code values represent other ranges of years, such as 1920-1950 and 1951 -1970.

Additionally, "Text Fields" are attached to the identification code string by placing them in the last column of Figure 50. More particularly, textual information is entered which describes the particular painting Additionally, the artist's name, Charles Russell, is also entered in another text field within the "Other Field Information Text" column of Figure 50. Furthermore, a price can be entered for the item of Example B withm the "Other Field Information Text" column.

After an information code string is compiled for an item, such as the items in Examples A and B, the resulting code string resembles a DNA string Each particular code segment, or code value withm a code field, identifies something unique about the cataloged item. By looking at code values in a first code field, or first part of a code string, the business associated with an item can be identified by the code value within the "Associate" code field. The code values for code fields located withm the middle of the string of Figure 50 identify other attributes of the classified item. The code values within the code fields towards the end of the code strings identify categories in which a particular item has been placed Furthermore, the code values withm the code fields (in text field) at the end of the code string identify further specifics about a classified item For purposes of this disclosure, it is understood that a classified item, a cataloged item, and a categorized item are analogous.

With respect to the cataloged item of Example B, individual users of a client can access the database server via a client web browser m order to search for classified results. A user can search different portions of the identification code string such as the code strings for Examples A and B, in order to search for particular items that they desire. Depending on which portions of the code string are searched, the type of results that the user receives is dependent on selection of such portions of the code string that are used to formulate a search. In one instance, all of the code fields can be search in combination with textual information. According to another implementation, only textual information can be utilized to search for an item. Accordmg to a further implementation, only a select group of code fields can be utilized to search for items.

Once an identification code string has been built (to classify an item or to categorize an item), search features on the database server can be customized to provide search criteria that are most often utilized by users. Accordingly, a search can be constructed in a manner that looks very intuitive to a select group of users, from the users' perspective. However, in actuality, all that is bemg done is a search is being tailored by adjusting the number of code fields and the particular code fields which are being utilized for formulate a search. Hence, various search strategies can be tailored by an administrator at the database server.

Example C of Figure 50 illustrates a search code string for a user who is searching for all classifieds of oil paintings that have been created by "Charles Russell". When a user conducts a search of the "Item" database on Applicant's database server, the searcher searches for all classifieds of oil paintings by "Charles Russell" utilizing code values withm one or more of the code fields depicted in Figure 50 More particularly, code values are used within code fields (2), (12) and (13), as well as the text field "Russell". For the remaining code fields (1) - (11) and (14) - (17), the presence of a code value greater than nullity (or zero) causes a match for such code field. Once all of the code strings present within a classifieds "Item" database are searched for a matching code for code fields (2), (12), (13) and the text "Russell", the matching results pull through the entire code string. Such matching results for each item make accessible all the information that is related to each code. For example, a code value for code field (1) for an associate pulls through all of the information related to a business of the associate, as well as contact information for the associate identified by the code value present within code field (1).

Rows 4-6 of Figure 50 illustrate the string codes for items that have been identified utilizing the search string in Column 2 identified as Example C. Accordingly, the three search results depicted m Figure 50 meet the search criteria of Example C, and it is understood that the "Other Field Info Text" column for each search result contains "Russell" within the corresponding text fields.

Figure 51 is a table illustrating particular pages of Applicant's web site located at Applicant's database server. Each page of the web site is dedicated to an item that is being cataloged within the database m a searchable format. Accordingly, rows withm the table of Figure 51 represent items of such particular pages For example, "One Associate Sign-up" represents a web page dedicated to signing up a new associate, thereby assigning an associate code (or Gebot) number thereto. As a further example, "Classified" items are provided at a dedicated web page of the web site. For each item presented withm a row, the manner in which such items are cataloged is represented by X's which are placed m respective code fields and which indicate that a code value is provided for such code field in relation to the item being cataloged at the web page. Hence, the associated code fields utilized when cataloging or categorizing the items represented by the rows of Figure 51 can accordingly be identified. As shown in Figure 51 , each column corresponds with a respective code field from the table of Figure 50. For example, the column entitled "GB (Gebot) Number" corresponds with a code value being present within the "Associate" code field (1) of Figure 50. Likewise, the presence of an "X" within the "Class Number" column of Figure 51 corresponds with the presence of a code value for the "Classified" code field (2) of Figure 50 Similar associations are made for the remaining columns of Figure 51 which correspond with respective code fields of Figure 50.

By observing the checked columns for the item within a particular row in Figure 51 , it becomes apparent which code fields are utilized to catalog such item. Furthermore, each of the items withm such rows are typically dedicated to a particular web page of Applicant's web site. An administrator selects from a check box if items are "Classified", "Sale/Show", and/or "News".

When a new item is updated by adding an identification code string to the server database for such item, the classified item shows up within its industry and within its sub-industry, under the row categories "Classifieds" and "Browse All Results". As shown in Figure 51 , associates that show up withm an industry comprise those associates that have a "GB Number" that matches one or more of the items that are categorized in that particular industry. Furthermore, the associates that show up withm a sub-mdustry are those associates that have a "GB Number" that matches one or more of the items that are categorized in that particular industry and that particular sub- mdustry. Pursuant to the cataloging of items, when an associate signs up for a

"Sale/Show", the associate's "Sale/Show" number is created or generated, and all items within that "Sale/Show" are tagged The associate then uses that number in the "Sale/Show" place holder depicted in Figure 51 When the item has been added to the database by updating the database (by clicking on a "Update" button on a graphical user interface), the sale and show items show up within a respective industry. If the "Sale/Show" number is greater than 0, then the item shows up m "Browse All Results". The associate's "Sale/Show" information that shows up within an industry comprises that information that has a "Sale/Show" number that matches one or more of the items categorized in that industry. The associate's sale and show information that shows up within a sub-industry comprising that information that has a "Sale/Show" number that matches one or more of the items categorized in that sub-mdustry.

When an associate signs up for "News", the associate's "News Number" is graded. As a result, all articles within that "News Number" are tagged, and the items use that new place holder. When the database is updated by selecting an "Update" button on a user interface, that news article shows up within its industry as well as withm its sub-mdustry. Associates that show up withm an industry comprise those associates that have a "GB Number" that matches one or more of the items that are categorized in that industry

For example, when an associate is assigned a "GB Number" where such a "GB Number" matches one or more of the items that are categorized in that industry, the associate shows up in that industry. Examples of items categorized in that industry include the "Class Number" (marked by "X"), the "Sale Number" (marked by "X"), the "News Number" (marked by "X"), the "Item Number" (marked by "X"), the "Industry Number" (marked by "X"), the "Sub-Industry Number" (marked by "X"), the "Item/Service" (marked by "X"), and the "Material" (marked by "X"). When an associate categorizes an item, the associate builds a string utilizing the code fields identified in the columns of Figures 50 and 51.

Figure 52 forms a process flow diagram showing the logic processmg for remotely mechanizing the archiving of items withm memory of a server over a communication link from a client utilizing the apparatus of Figure 1.

In Step "SI", the client, communicating with Applicant's web site, provides a list of attributes for a potential item that is viewable at the client by an individual who is attempting to archive at least one item. After performing Step "SI ", the process proceeds to Step "S2". In Step "S2", the individual observes an item which they wish to archive, catalog, or classify within memory of the server, such as withm the database. Accordingly, the individual observes the item to determine at least one attribute of the item. After performing Step "S2", the process proceeds to Step "S3".

In Step "S3", the individual, from the client, associates an attribute with the item, the attribute being selected from a list of potential attributes for the item from the client. After performing Step "S3", the process proceeds to Step "S4".

In Step "S4", the individual remotely archives the item from the client by submitting the associated attribute and the item from the client to the server. In some cases, the individual remotely archives the item from the client by submitting a plurality of associated attributes along with the item from the client to the server for archiving of the item within memory of the server. After performing Step "S4", the process is terminated.

Claims

1. An apparatus for cataloging auction items, including a computer system accessible for online interactive communication with users, the computer system compπsing- a first memory area configured to store a list of attributes of potential auction items; a second memory area configured to store a list of general object categories for potential auction items; and a third memory area comprising a database configured to store auction item information, including a description of at least one specific auction item, at least one attribute of each auction item, and a general object category for each auction item, wherem the database associates each auction item with the at least one attribute and the general object category

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the computer system is programmed to perform the steps comprising: cataloging an auction item by observing the auction item to identify attributes related to the auction item, categorizing the auction item based upon the identified attributes, and storing the categorized auction item in the database.

3 The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the computer system is further programmed to receive search requests by an online user and to perform the steps comprising: receiving an attribute of a searched auction item; receiving a general object category of a searched auction item; and identifying at least one auction item having the attribute and the general object category.

4 The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the search request comprises an inductive search method and wherein an attribute comprises a truth about an auction item.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the general object categories each comprise a predominant characteristic of an auction item.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherem the attribute comprises a predominant group from which the auction item is made or derives value.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherem the attribute compπses a predominant use at creation for which the auction item was made.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the attribute comprises a place of origin of the auction item.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the attribute comprises a period of time during which the auction item was made.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the attribute comprises an auction house which is scheduled to auction the auction item.

1 1. A method of remotely mechanizing the archiving of items withm memory of a server over a communication link from a client, compπsing: providmg a list of attributes for a potential item viewable at the client; observing an item to determine at least one attribute of the item; from the client, associating an attribute with the item, the attribute selected from a list of potential attributes for the item; and remotely archiving the item from the client by submitting the associated attribute and the item from the client to the server.

12. The method of claim 11 wherein remotely archiving the item comprises categorizing the item in a database of the server using a code value in a code string.

13. The method of claim 12 wherem the code value comprises a first portion code of the code string, and wherein the first portion code is assigned to the attribute.

14. The method of claim 13 wherem the first portion code comprises a field of a record withm a database, and wherem the field is operative to identify the attribute of the item.

15. The method of claim 1 1 wherem the item has a plurality of attributes, each attribute has a code value assigned to a code field specific to the attribute, and wherem the code values cooperate to provide a searchable identification code search string for the item, wherein the item is catalogued in a database of the server using the identification code string

16. The method of claim 15 wherein the identification code string is specific to categorization of the item within the database

17. The method of claim 1 1 wherein observing the item comprises determining a first attribute and a second attribute of the item, wherein associating an attribute comprises associating the first attribute and the second attribute with the item, and wherein remotely archiving the item comprises submitting a first code value of a first code field for the first attribute and a second code value of a second code field for the second attribute to the server to form an identification string for the item at the server.

18. An apparatus adapted and arranged for remotely mechanizing the cataloging of items within memory of a server within a client-server environment, comprising: a client having a user interface and a web browser; a communication link coupling the client with a server having a database in which items are catalogued; wherein the client is configured to run an application operative to provide a list of attributes for a potential item that is viewable at the client, wherein the user can observe an item to determine at least one attribute of the item, and wherein the user can associate an attribute selected from a list of attributes for the item, and remotely catalog the item from the client by submitting the associated attribute and the item with the web browser of the client to the server.

19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherem each attribute is mapped to a code string withm a code table of a database of the server, wherem a first group of mutually exclusive attributes are provided withm a first code field of the code table, and wherein a second group of mutually exclusive attributes are provided withm a second code field of the code table.

20. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein a selected code in the first code field and a selected code in the second code field are each provided within a code string that identifies at least one specific item within the code table of the database corresponding with the code string.

21 The apparatus of claim 19 wherein the attribute comprises a noun characterizing the attribute, and wherein a corresponding selected code string comprises an alpha-numeric code string.

22. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein a plurality of different attributes are each assigned a code specific to the attribute and assigned to a respective field, wherein an item identification code string comprises the assigned code for a selected one of the attributes assigned to the respective field.

23. The apparatus of claim 18 wherem the attribute is identified by a code string assigned to a particular field, wherein the code string is specific to the attribute within the particular field.

24. The apparatus of claim 22 wherem the code string provides a record in a database of the server, and the code string includes code values relating to observations by the user of the item.

25. The apparatus of claim 18 further comprising, from the client, remotely archiving the item by categorizing the item in a database of the server using a code value in a code string.