CN101460945B

CN101460945B - Method and apparatus for enhanced browsing

Info

Publication number: CN101460945B
Application number: CN2005800407498A
Authority: CN
Inventors: S·米尔纳; W·布朗; J·凯利
Original assignee: BT Web Solutions LLC
Current assignee: Cufer Asset Ltd LLC
Priority date: 2004-09-27
Filing date: 2005-09-26
Publication date: 2012-03-28
Anticipated expiration: 2025-09-26
Also published as: WO2006037054A1; CN101460945A; KR20070101237A; KR101225292B1; EP1800228A1

Abstract

A method and apparatus for enhanced browsing. The apparatus presents an enhanced browsing window containing content identified by a link in a page displayed by a browser. The apparatus includes a fetcher for fetching or prefetching the content and a cache for storing the window. The apparatus may also include an ad interface for retrieving advertisements for display with the content. The apparatus may further include an interface to a central server for exchanging data regarding user browsing behavior, facilitating identification of links on browsed pages, prioritizing links for prefetching of identified data, etc. When a first page is displayed in a browser, content identified by a link to a second page is fetched and an enhanced browsing window, which may initially be invisible, is built. When a user mouses-over the link or an associated icon, the window is automatically displayed and the user can navigate the displayed content.

Description

Be used for the method and apparatus that boost is browsed

Background technology

The present invention relates to field of computer.More specifically, a kind of method and apparatus that the user browses the quality and the efficient of experience that is used to promote is provided.

Current browser provides standard to browse to the user, and this mainly is because their notice all is confined to single webpage in any given time.Particularly, browser generally only shows single page, and this page possibly comprise to the hyperlink of any amount of other pages or website.Browser does not allow the user to watch the content on the link page, redirects browser up to he or she to this page (for example, through selecting hyperlink).Having only at that time, the user could confirm whether this page comprises her interested content.If no, she must turn back (retrace) her operation to return another possible take-off point (for example, through clicking the Back button).

This pattern-selection turns to the link of new page, browses its content, and possibly select the link-can pass through any amount of layer depth on this page, and all these must be turned back to return starting point.When this starting point be to the website the lists of links of the page (for example in search engine site) or to commodity or service (for example; In retail or auction site) lists of links the time; The user must travel through the chain of many link pages; And constantly return starting point, hope to seek more near the content that meets her interest.

In addition, when the user selects link when navigating to the corresponding page, have only browser after that could retrieve the content of this page.The bandwidth or the type that depend on the obtainable communication link of user, and the state of starting point and targeted website (for example, the degree of crowding of the webserver) are often having tangible time lag before the display-object page fully.When the countless page of user capture, this often has during the search sessions of using search engine or retail/auction site, and the combination duration of time lag can cause a large amount of stand-by period.The user who hopes a plurality of links of fast browsing or the page can feel very disappointed for the response time of browser.And, if when attempting to load the page, run into mistake, user's success or abandon before she must repeatedly attempt the heavy duty it.

And if having, when a plurality of chained list of the navigation link page, the user seldom obtains any help.For example, when the user browses a plurality of chained list that comes the result of page searching that free search engine provides,, she needs the further page (this page is not in full conformity with her interest) of inspection when not finding the better page if can running into.Routinely, she to must be remembered that this page how she to arrive (the link sequence that for example, she selects in order getting there) or to add label to her browser.When link sequence (and her browsing session) become more and more longer the time, remember more and more difficult that their just become.And, collection maybe be seldom or the label of having no stomach for make tag control become increasingly difficult.

Summary of the invention

Therefore, in one embodiment of the invention, a kind of method and apparatus that boost is browsed (enhanced browsing) electronic data that is used for is provided.In a method, first page that on browser, shows (for example, webpage, image, email message) comprises the link from first page to second page.Structure and high-speed cache comprise the boost browse window from the content of second page, but this window is sightless at first.

Content can be through relevant with content or think that the user possibly increase in interested one or more advertisements.When user's rolling mouse link relevant icon or status indicator to the link of second page or with this through (mouses-over) (cursor is put in), or otherwise represent to show the boost browse window automatically to linking when interested.

When the user representes internally to hold when interested, extract or look ahead in advance to be used to increase the content of boost browse window.Content from any amount page that is linked to first page all can be extracted or look ahead; Can priority ordering link to confirm the order of content retrieval.In the present embodiment, the actual content (for example, being not only the image of content) of the retrieval link page.

On first page, status indicator or chart can be set to some or the all-links that closes on other pages.Icon is configured to the state of expression from extraction of the link page or prefetching content, or some other state of content.The outward appearance that for example, can adopt different icons or change icon with the indication link be identified be used to look ahead, retrieve or look ahead underway, retrieval is accomplished, looking ahead is postponed or interrupt, can not retrieve the content of link etc.Perhaps; With link relevant icon and be configured to the content match that links of expression browsed content, contents table (for example reveal safety risk; Comprise virus or spyware), will to spend cycle loading time, the content that prolong be inappropriate (for example, Pornograph) etc. to content.Can start this icon as helping accessed content and/or being used to dispose the control that boost is browsed.

The boost browse window approximately is 75% of a browser window size, can be positioned at any position on browser top, and cursor can move to the position in the window when opening window.If the cursor grand window, then the boost browse window is closed.If user's rolling mouse through the different linking in first page, then can be opened another window with other guide.If the user selects (for example, through clicking user interface controls), then (in the browser) first page can be by the replacement of page displayed in the boost browse window.Link content identified by in the boost browse window also can be looked ahead, so the user can enjoy the multilayer boost and browses.

In one embodiment of the invention, the boost browsing apparatus comprises and is used for extracting (or looking ahead) extraction apparatus by the link institute content identified of the page of browser display; Be used to produce and/or show the window generator of boost browse window; And the cache memory that is used to store the boost browse window.This device can comprise that also retrieve advertisements is to be included in the advertisement interface in the window; And can be included in the interface of central server; Be used to exchange the data about user browsing behavior, help the link on the identification page, the priority ordering link is to extract recognition data etc.This boost browsing apparatus can use browser or graphical user interface to implement, or as browser or graphical user interface, and accept user's input from indicating equipment (for example, the mouse of control cursor), keyboard and/or other equipment.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of describing the boost browsing apparatus according to the embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 describes the boost browse window according to the embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 3 is according to the embodiment of the invention, and the process flow diagram that the boost browsing method is provided is shown.

Fig. 4 is according to the embodiment of the invention, and the process flow diagram of prefetch target content is shown.

Fig. 5 is according to the embodiment of the invention, describes the method for using boost to browse hurdle or bar.

Fig. 6 illustrates according to the embodiment of the invention, helps the navigation tree of user's navigating and browsing or search content.

Fig. 7 describes the boost browse window of the alternative embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 8 describes according to the embodiment of the invention, the exemplary icons of the state of indicative of targeted content or object content retrieval.

Describe in detail

Below describe to be used to make it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that and use the present invention, and in the scope of application-specific of the present invention and their demands, provide.Various modifications to disclosed embodiment are clearly to those skilled in the art, and under the situation that does not deviate from the scope of the invention, the General Principle of definition can be applied to other embodiment and application here.Therefore, the embodiment shown in the present invention does not plan to be limited to, but meet the wide region of principle disclosed herein and characteristic.

Foreword

In one embodiment of the invention, a kind of method and apparatus that electronic data is browsed that is used to promote is disclosed.The user browse or his browser of navigating to first electronic page (for example, webpage, document, email message), said first electronic page covers one or more links of other pages or quotes.When he selects (for example, rolling mouse through or cursor is put in) to the link of second page or when link relevant icon or designator, in the top or the front demonstration boost browse window of browser or comprise the frame of second content of pages.

In the present embodiment, the boost browse window comprises the actual content from second page, such as HTML (HTML), and is not only the image (for example .gif or .jpg image) of content.The content of second page is selected to be looked ahead before the preview the user, and therefore when the user chooses the link of second page, can almost show the boost browse window immediately.When user's rolling mouse links through other, change the content of window, or each link is produced independent boost browse window.

In order to describe the embodiment of the invention, identification or " link " relevant with the data that are retrieved or look ahead can be taked any form-image, text or other.Therefore, link comprises and can realize or by link (for example, hyperlink) any object (for example, icon) or information or the quoting other electronic data or content followed.

The device that is used to provide boost to browse can comprise various program modules, and it can use any suitable procedure language to write in the software or be coded in the firmware.Exemplary means comprises and is used to appear the boost browse window and browses the graphical user interface of relevant control with boost, is used for being cached at the cache memory of window content displayed, and the extraction apparatus or the prefetcher that are used to extract content.This device also is included in one or more interfaces of server, advertisement that said server stores shows in the boost browse window and the data of describing user browsing behavior.Such interface can make the boost browsing apparatus be coupled to central server and browse to help boost.This device also can be constructed as the plug-in card program of existing browser (for example, InternetExplorer, Firefox), plug-in card program or complete browser or other application of arriving Another Application (for example, the Outlook of Microsoft).

The content of second page that in the boost browse window, shows can use advertisement, particularly relevant with content advertisement to increase.For example, analyze content confirming the theme or the characteristic of second page, if or comprise search result list from the link of its retrieve data, then select advertisement according to the search criterion that produces Search Results.In an enforcement of the embodiment of the invention, retrieval is replaced by different advertisements as the advertisement meeting of part second content of pages.In addition, can scan the content of boost browse window for security purpose (for example, in order to detect virus, spyware (spyware) etc.).To provide this boost of the present invention to browse the details of embodiment with the lower part.

In another embodiment of the present invention, maybe be in order in the boost browse window, to browse, look ahead the content that is linked to browsing page (or other guide).Can adopt the whole bag of tricks or trial method (heuristics) the page or content with definite which link of will extracting or look ahead.Exemplarily; When user's browser display from search engine (for example; Google.com, yahoo.com) the page of Search Results the time, accomplish automatically for some or the all-links page or content (webpage or the website that for example, have the information relevant) and to look ahead with the user search standard.Similarly, when browser display arrived the lists of links of commodity or service, these commodity or service were trader or Auction Site (for example, amazon.com, ebay.com) sale to be provided, and used the project of link to begin looking ahead of content automatically.

In case browser receives or shows main browsing pages, just begins to look ahead.Therefore, look ahead with user's browsing pages and/or link page listings or other guide is consistent.Therefore, the user even choose before the link of the content that he wants to see, can prefetching content (and/or other guide).Can scan the content (or the content that will be looked ahead) of looking ahead with seek virus, spyware, ad ware, porn and/or other undesirable in code perhaps.Icon or other designators can with link relevant and be arranged to through linking the state of indication retrieval or prefetching content.

In the enforcement of this embodiment of the present invention, according to the link font size, be linked at the selection that prefetching content is confirmed in position on the browser page, its position in lists of links etc. exploratoryly.The further details of this embodiment of the present invention that following content will be provided for looking ahead.

In another embodiment of the present invention, provide a kind of and be used for keeping the user when the rolling lists of links (for example, hyperlink) and can enjoy the mechanism that boost is browsed experience.In an enforcement of present embodiment, graphic bar or hurdle are overlapping or be superimposed upon in the tabulation.Bar can be configured border or the edge as (or adjacent) boost browse window.Lists of links can be expanded a plurality of pages or screen, and is configured and expands when the scroll list gets into when browsing bar.The user can through along bar or in bar rolling user interface cursor come the scroll list (for example ,/down or a left side/right side).When in bar, navigating, preview or demonstration link institute content displayed in the boost browse window.

Same when in bar, navigate, when oversize and can not be presented in the browser fully the time near the cursor on the border of master browser in tabulating, the content of rolling view device then.When cursor through or during alignment chain, be presented in the boost browse window from the content of link, or open or close independent window for each link.Therefore, in this embodiment of the present invention, the user is the content of some or all-links in the scan list very apace.Following content will provide the further details of this browse member embodiment of the present invention.

In the replaceable enforcement of this embodiment of the invention; When the boost browse window of opening has first content of pages; The user operates mouse roller or other control inputs is provided (for example; Arrow key, last page or leaf or Page Down keys), with the current content and the content that links another link in the sequence of quick exchange window.Exemplarily, when cursor near (for example, top, adjacent) icon or with the time to the relevant designator of linking of first page, the operation mouse roller.When swing roller, cursor moves to next and links relevant icon, and rolling simultaneously comprises the page of link.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the pattern description of this device explicit user navigation or browsing content (for example, webpage, document, email message).This description can be provided as horizontal or vertical tree, wherein corresponding (for example, webpage, image, document) or project set of each node.

In an enforcement of present embodiment, when the user begin new search (for example, on the search engine site or providing on the website of commodity or service) and browser the user on during the page of display of search results, produce tree root.When the user navigate to the page of link current (for example, Search Results) page, the new node of generation tree also was connected to former node.When other link navigation of user by selecting are darker, can add increasing node.For fast return in search, the user can click node and turn back to corresponding content.Therefrom, he can select the different path of navigating.Similarly, any other content that can represent in the tree through selecting suitable node to move quickly into of user.

The user can be through the outward appearance (for example, color, size, pattern) that changes node this node of mark; This can help the user to turn back to the specific page.Following content will provide the further details of this embodiment of the invention.

Boost is browsed

Fig. 1 describes the device that boost is according to an embodiment of the invention browsed electronic data.In exemplary embodiment, this device is configured to the plug-in card program or the appendage of the web browser of the Internet Explorer such as Microsoft company, the Firefox of Mozilla foundation, the Netscape communicator of Netscape communication common carrier etc.In other were implemented, this device can be provided as different application or browser part, or arrived the plug-in card program or the appendage of dissimilar application (for example, Email, instant messaging, database).

It is maybe to be selected for the link of retrieval in the boost browse window, to show that the term here " Object linking " is used in reference to its content.Similarly, term " object content " is used in reference to that using looks ahead or not use looks ahead and maybe can be retrieved with content displayed.

Boost browsing apparatus 102 is operated on the computing equipment (for example, computing machine, personal digital assistant, network-enabled phone (web-enable telephone)) of virtual any kind and is comprised user interface 104, content extractor or prefetcher 106, (or a plurality of) cache memory 108, Advertisement Server interface 110 and an optional central server interface 112.Be similar to other plug-in card programs, this device also is coupled to master browser.

Boost browsing apparatus 102 is coupled to computer system or the network that comprises website, webpage, document, email message and/or other electronic data or content.This device can be coupled to these entities through the communication link of any kind, and said communication link can be (the for example network) shared or special-purpose, wired or wireless.Particularly, device 102 is coupled to central server, and this central server can comprise or be coupled to database or other data acquisitions are browsed to help boost, and is as described below.Content through 102 visits of boost browsing apparatus can be same, or be stored on the contrary on the computing equipment identical with this device.

User interface 104 is arranged to structure, shows and operation boost browse window.User interface can provide the control of any amount and type to allow user's navigation or to operate the content in this window equally; Such as button, icon, toolbar etc.; And can accept keyboard input (for example, using key sequence, up-down arrow, last page or leaf or the Page Down keys of CTRL or ALT key) equally.

Various controls can allow the user to begin interrupt extracting or the prefetch target content, open or close boost browse window, the his or her browser of navigation with retrieval of content (for example, through browser being directed to page displayed in the boost browse window), extract the content that is linked to content displayed in the boost browse window, be substituted in content displayed in the boost browse window, replace window displayed etc. with another window with other guide.

Especially, user interface 104 can provide the mode that control, menu or other devices are used to allow customization boost browsing apparatus or change its operation.The customization option can comprise: the size of boost browse window or position, in the quantity of the moment Object linking that extracts content (for example; Do not have, own, ten, 20), how to discern or (or a plurality of) default action that priority ordering Object linking, response specific user movable (for example, when in user's window or during the link in the object content that shows) are taked, postpone to open, close or change the boost browse window how long to wait.

In one embodiment of the invention; When the searched targets content; User interface 104 makes up the boost browse window, only if but keep window invisible up to the actual expression of user (for example rolling mouse passes through) links related objective or with the interest that links relevant designator (for example, icon).What then, window became is visible.Sightless window can be stored in (or a plurality of) cache memory 108.

Content prefetcher 106 is responsible for (for example website, database, document storage vault, E-mail gateway) extraction content according to the standard of default standard and/or user's appointment and from suitable source.For example, browser load or show comprise the page of one or more Object linkings after, content prefetcher 106 begins the prefetch target content immediately, thereby when the user checks the page, utilizes the communication bandwidth of free time.Any amount of link on the browser page can be as Object linking.The content from certain links is obtained in response predetermined user input (for example, the ALT of link or correlation behavior designator clicks or ALT-rolling mouse process).

In the described here embodiment of the invention; As the user through rolling mouse through expression to (for example linking expression interested or other to Object linking or the designator relevant with Object linking; When icon) interested, content prefetcher 106 extracts or the prefetch target contents.Of following content; The designator relevant with Object linking (for example can be configured; Through user interface 104) be used to represent to extract or the state of looking ahead (for example; Beginning, carry out in, accomplish, abandon, Break Link) and/or the state (for example, browsed, comprise virus in the past, comprise spyware, comprise Pornograph) of content.

The content prefetcher 106 of boost browser device 102 and/or some other assembly (for example, independent Target Recognition module) can be configured to the recognition objective link.As mentioned below, can adopt prefetch module to be identified in the Object linking in some webpage or the other guide.In brief, the stencil design of looking ahead is used for specific webpage (or page set) and is illustrated on the page which position finding Object linking (or Object linking set, for example search result list).Replacedly, obviously can be as Object linking with any lists of links or the link set of listings format configuration.

Which kind of the method select target link (for example, by the user, according to default or template) that don't work all will be carried out priority ordering to Object linking before the searched targets content.Priority ordering Object linking regular as mentioned below, and can be according to being linked at order in the search result list, the position on the page that their occur, their font size etc.

Depend on any right of priority that is assigned to the specific objective link, by content prefetcher 106 retrieval related contents.In case the searched targets content, the user interface 104 of device 102 and/or some other assembly make up the boost browse window for this content.

Should be noted that extraction and/or look ahead the state indication not necessarily for all embodiment of the present invention.Though prefetching content can accelerate that the user browses or preview content, is not having also to enjoy other advantages of the present invention under the situation of prefetching content.

Whether for example, no matter just looking ahead or just extracted content, we hope to detect unwelcome content (for example, spyware, virus, Pornograph).Perhaps, the user can find it help to point out he or she browsing content, preserve Object linking to favorites list, determine or point out the content yes or no useful or interesting or the like.

(or a plurality of) cache memory 108 comprises one or more cache memories; Be used to preserve Object linking, object content, the template of looking ahead, boost browse window, user historical (for example, browse or the website sequence of preview) and/or other data.In the described embodiments of the invention of Fig. 1, the cache memory that boost browsing apparatus 102 uses is independent of and distinguishes over any cache memory of being safeguarded by browser.(or a plurality of) cache memory 108 need not be included among all embodiment of the present invention, or can carry out its function by some miscellaneous part of device 102.

In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when display-object content in the boost browse window, can follow one or more advertisements.The retrieval of advertisement is by 110 management of Advertisement Server interface.Advertisement Server interface and any amount of advertisement source (for example, advertiser, media tissue) and/or central server 120 are mutual.For example, when the needs advertisement, Advertisement Server interface 110 can be communicated by letter with central server 120 with which (or which) advertisement of deterministic retrieval.Then, the suitable source of Advertisement Server interface contact with obtain advertisement or from central server retrieves it.Identical advertisement may be displayed in the boost browse window of opening for the different target link, particularly for all Object linkings that appear on the browser page.

Advertisement can be based on content, and with the object content in coupling or the reflection boost browse window, or coupling comprises the master browser page of related objective link.For example, if the Object linking of the master browser page comprises search result list, the search terms that produces Search Results so is used in the selection advertisement.Therefore, advertisement selection can be accomplished by any combination of device 102, central server 120, some other entity (for example, advertisement source) or these assemblies.In other embodiments of the invention, Advertisement Server interface 110 is optional, or carries out its function by another assembly of device 102.

Database kept by central server 120 or the template of looking ahead, user behavior (for example, navigation activity or pattern), look ahead or other set and/or other data of priority ordering trial method.Particularly, central server can be collected from user's boost browsing apparatus and select which link to be used to browse about the information of user accessing web page (or other guide), which page or preview, wherein browse their sequential scheduling.

This information is used for helping to produce the template of looking ahead, priority ordering is looked ahead and/or other purposes.For example, assemble the information about central server 120 through the boost browsing apparatus from many users, most popular link can be determined and/or is used to look ahead by priority ordering in those user's browsed content.Some or all these data can be replicated on the boost browsing apparatus 102 or with boost browsing apparatus 102 to be shared.

Central server 120 also can be the advertisement that on the boost browse window, shows and the source of content.Central server can be by tissue that boost browsing apparatus 102 is provided or different tissues operation.

As stated, optional central server interface 112 communicate by letter with central server 120 with the visit and with the central server shared data.Therefore; The central server interface can about User Activity (for example pass on to central server; The website, the link of click, the search terms of use of visit) information; And can retrieve Useful Information in identification or priority ordering Object linking (for example, look ahead link or the content that template, analysis user like).

In other embodiments, the boost browsing apparatus can comprise more or less assembly, and perhaps the function of said modules distributes in a different manner.For example, the boost browsing apparatus also can comprise an assembly, is used for the prefetching content of Scan for Viruses, Pornograph (or be not suitable for specific user other guide), spyware, ad ware, other Malwares etc.

An alternative embodiment of the present invention can be implemented under the situation that does not have prefetcher 106 or cache memory 108.In this embodiment; When the user browse first page and rolling mouse through or hover near the link of second page or with (for example link relevant control; Icon) time, the boost browse window still can show the content from second page, but can not move up to mouse by retrieval of content.And this device can be employed in cache memory or another cache memory of browser available on user's the computing equipment.

Fig. 2 has described boost browse window according to an embodiment of the invention.In Fig. 2, open any browser 200 (for example, the Internet of Microsoft Explorer) arrives and to comprise link 204 tabulations (for example, 204a-204i) first page 202.In this example, link 204 is Search Results, but in other are implemented, can be included in the link of any kind of any kind content.By link 204 identifications or with link that 204 relevant contents can be correlated with or can be uncorrelated.For example, if link comprises the result of a search operation,, can think that their content is correlated with like the link in the page 202 204.

Location boost browse window 210 is so that allow the user to watch part link 204.Yet, in other are implemented, window 210 can be more greatly or still less degree ground cover link 204.Therefore replacedly, any or all window 210 can be transparent wholly or in part, even when display window 210, some or all contents of browser page 202 can be watched.As stated, before showing, can make up and high-speed cache boost browse window 210.

In the embodiment of the invention that Fig. 2 describes, when user's rolling mouse through with content 212 corresponding the linking (for example, link 204i) of boost browse window or when link relevant control (for example, icon, designator), automatic also quick display window.Can adjust the size and/or the position of window 210 by the user, but the user to window adjustment size or again the location be conditional.

Advertisement frames 220 also is positioned at boost browse window 210.Advertisement frames can be positioned at any position or along any edge of window.Exemplarily, in window 210 before the displaying contents, remove or replace advertisement, this advertisement be together with or as receiving from the partial content 212 of the link position that 204c discerned.

Can dwindle content 212 through font size and adapt to window 210 more fully or more easily, and/or provide scroll bar (for example, scroll bar 214) to allow the vertical and/or horizontal rolling of user to allow it.If the user clicks in window 210 (for example, a left side is clicked), then the page 202 of browser 200 can be replaced by institute's page displayed or content in the boost browse window.The user can be through shifting out boost browse window (for example, some position in the browser page 202) with cursor or carrying out other operations (for example, the right click in the boost browse window) and close window 210 simply.

In one embodiment of the invention, optional label or pull-down menu 230 contiguous boost browse window 210 or in boost browse window 210.Click label 230 open menu with one or more characteristics of allowing customization boost browse window or device (for example, the size of window 210, before window is opened the user must how long chain stop, transparent degree).Replacedly, menu that the boost of customized user is browsed or control can be positioned at other places of boost browse window 210, or can be ordered by specific instruction or user interface input.

In other embodiments of the invention, other user interface controls or option can be provided.For example; Can provide one group of control with allow the user specify when the user take specific operation (for example, click or rolling mouse through the link in the boost browse window, in window click rather than clickthrough, during when content still in preview first link rolling mouse through second Object linking) time boost browsing apparatus should how to operate.

In an enforcement; Can button or control be provided (for example to the boost browse window; " loading ", " looking ahead " from the content of all-links) with allow the user especially in the request target perhaps target pages be used for prefetching content or take some other operation to be loaded in the browser.For example; " locking " button (" hold " button) allows the user to specify the boost browse window on its current content, should stay open; And no matter subsequently mouse moves, perhaps select " release " button (" hold off " button) or in window, click up to the user.

Can provide another button or control to turn back to the nearest Search Results that he or she carries out immediately to allow the user.For example, each user begins search, and " returning Search Results " button can be configured to the URL (URL) with Search Results.Then, begin new search up to the user, he or she can arrive nearest result to return (in his or her browser or boost browse window) by selector button.

Fig. 7 has described boost browse window according to another embodiment of the present invention.In Fig. 7, adopt boost browser window 710 with preview in e-mail applications (for example, the content in MicrosoftOutlook).

In exemplary enforcement, when showing email message 702, can look ahead by be included in that link (for example, link 704) institute in this message discern or be included in the content that linking in this message (for example, linking 704) is correlated with.Therefore, the content 712 in the boost browse window 710 comprises from the content of the location retrieval of being discerned by link 704.The boost browse window also comprises advertisement frames 720, and said advertisement frames 702 can present the advertisement relevant with content 712 or message 702.

In another is implemented, use the content of boost browse window preview email message, such as in message folder window 706, listing or the message of index.

Fig. 3 shows the method that boost is according to an embodiment of the invention browsed.Therefore this method can be used the device 102 of Fig. 1, and implements having on the subscription client computing equipment of browser.

At state 302, open user browser in other set of webpage or content, think " browser page " here, to distinguish it and another page or other object contents that in the boost browse window, show.

At state 304, boost browsing apparatus application defaults or customized rules link with localizing objects on browser page.Can also discern any amount of additional object link.For example, said device can be located all-links automatically and regarded them as Object linking on browser page.Perhaps, this device can be used the template of looking ahead to the browser page customization, with the interested link of identification user's most probable.

Can the template of looking ahead be preserved (for example, high-speed cache) in the boost browsing apparatus, maybe can be stored on the central server with before the open any browser page or when the open any browser page time and retrieve by this device.As another possibility, the template or other information that are used for discerning (and/or priority ordering) Object linking can maybe can be received as the part browser page from the same server retrieval of the service browser page.

At state 306, the content relevant of looking ahead with Object linking.Object content can comprise webpage, document, image or other data by all or part of Object linking identification.Therefore, object content can comprise HTML, XML or other SGMLs, but is not only content images in an embodiment of the present invention.As mentioned below because actual content looked ahead, so it can appear with readable, intelligible form, and can be by navigation (for example, if it comprises link).Especially, prefetching content can not be expressed as " thumbnail " or other can not navigate, often be difficult to the image recognized.

Can retrieve one or more advertisements equally, to show with object content.As stated, can receive advertisement, and can select this advertisement according to object content, browser page, the search terms of user's input, user's browsing histories or other information from any suitable source.

In one embodiment of the invention, Object linking or the status indicator relevant with Object linking change outward appearance (for example, design, color, size, underscore, black matrix) when to indicate the prefetch target content.In an enforcement, Object linking at first (in browser page) occur with first color (for example, light blue) first, after extracting object content, changes into different colours (for example, dark blue) then.Can use a plurality of color palette to allow to change link quickly and easily color.

In another was implemented, as mentioned below, the status indicator relevant with Object linking changed outward appearance or is changed to represent changing (for example, initially, accomplish, fail) from the state of looking ahead of the content of Object linking.

Favourable; After the content of prefetch target link; If user's navigating and browsing device is to this link (for example, through clickthrough), then content almost can be immediately loaded from the cache memory of boost browsing apparatus (or preserve other any position of the content).Therefore, even without using the boost browse window to come preview content, user's the experience of browsing has also been promoted.

At state 308, any advertisement that makes up the boost browse window and increase object content and retrieve in order to follow this content.Content can be adjusted size or keep complete size, can provide scroll bar with vertical and/or horizontal rolling in this case.In the difference of this embodiment of the present invention is implemented, can keep, remove or replace the advertisement that is received as the part object content.

In an enforcement, when the object content of looking ahead from a plurality of Object linkings, can produce (and not showing) boost browser window to any amount of link.Therefore, if be 50 Object linking prefetching contents, then any amount of Object linking since 0 to 50 is produced the boost browse window.Later on can be to remaining generation window (for example, after the user begins preview content).

At state 310, high-speed cache boost browse window under situation about not showing.Through before needs show, making up window, can work as the user and represent to the Object linking almost to appear immediately when interested the boost browse window.In the method for Fig. 3, each Object linking that its content is looked ahead makes up and the independent boost browse window of high-speed cache.Thus, to any amount of Object linking repeat mode 304 to 310.

At state 312, the boost browsing apparatus detects other selections of user's rolling mouse process or Object linking.When the user interface cursor (for example; Cursor of mouse, by the cursor or the selector switch of TAB key control) appear at or adjacent objects link or the control relevant with Object linking (for example; Icon, status indicator) time; Maybe the needs process preset time cycle (for example, 1 second) before the window that comprises object content is transformed into visibility status.This time cycle is adjusted by the user.Exemplarily, if the user uses keyboard input (for example rather than mouse), then through the user to the mark of link and suspend the selection of necessary time cycle recognition objective link.

At state 314, when definite user rolling mouse through select in addition or expression when interested in the Object linking, it is visual that the boost browse window becomes.In an enforcement, window approximately is 75% of a user browser size, and can be close to (or overlapping) Object linking or comprise the lists of links of Object linking.Screen cursor is positioned at the boost browse window, near Object linking (or above that).

At optional state 316, can boost be browsed and expand to object content, so that the user can navigation content or boost browse window.That is, can regard the one or more links in the object content as Object linking, the content that they are correlated with of looking ahead in this case.Then, if when user's rolling mouse links relevant control (for example, status indicator) through the Object linking in the object content or with this, just produce another boost browse window to show new object content.Perhaps, the object content that replaces the boost browse window with new object content.

Exemplarily, if the user clicks the Object linking relevant with object content or (rather than chaining) left side click (that is, clicking main mouse button) in object content, then browser page can or comprise that the page of object content replaces by object content.If the user makes the static preset time of the cursor cycle (for example, 5 seconds) in the boost browse window, then carry out identical operations.If the user clicks the link in the object content, then the content of link can replace the object content in the boost browse window, and perhaps user's browser can point in this perhaps page.

At state 318, if the user shifts out the boost browse window with cursor, then window can be closed, and this is because it supposes that the user is no longer interested in the browsing objective contents.Perhaps, (for example, rather than chaining) is right in window clicks (clicking the mouse button except main button) it is closed.

If the user moves on to second Object linking with cursor from window, then window can disappear and replace (perhaps replacing this object content by second object content) by the boost browse window that is second object content structure.In one embodiment of the invention, if user's scroll wheel or produce other predetermined input (for example, to upward arrow or arrow downwards), then cursor can move on to the next one (or before) link automatically and in the boost browse window, show corresponding object content.

In one embodiment, the state of boost browse window can be kept a period of time after closing.Then, if rolling mouse through or the link of choosing identical content in addition be used for boost and browse, then open window (for example, placed in the middle or be rolled to the same section of content) with equal state.

Browse experience and distinguish over the routine " ejection (pop-up) " in the webpage significantly as it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that boost described herein.When selecting, conventional ejection only show reception or as the information of part webpage.On the contrary, the boost browse window shows the content from the different pages or source, and this content can be navigated.In an enforcement, the boost browsing apparatus can be configured to the ejection that suppresses conventional.

After state 318, this exemplary method finishes.

In the enforcement of this embodiment of the present invention, when user's rolling mouse linked through different target and opens new boost browse window, each set of object content was followed in same or analogous advertisement meeting.Yet if the user points to her browser the different pages, the new search (using new search terms) of beginning in browser page, perhaps do not click any advertisement, advertisement can change.In the situation of back; If repeatedly present one group of advertisement and user when representing they are lost interest in; The content of pages of then the nearest search criterion of user and/or her being selected to browse is carried out another and is detected, and can select one group of new advertisement to be placed in the boost browse window.

In another enforcement of this embodiment of the present invention, user's boost browsing apparatus or window can be by the tissue that the boost browsing apparatus is provided (for example, welcome website) or some other tissue marks or customizations.In this case, can use provider trade mark, make up the boost browse window to the advertisement of the link of provider and provider's patronage etc.

In another is implemented, install and operation boost browsing apparatus at central server.In this was implemented, the user navigate to server to be scheduled to and to use this device.This implements relatively to be suitable for weak client.

Therefore, the embodiment of the invention has been described, wherein: when browser shows first webpage of the link that covers second page in first window, look ahead from the content of second webpage; Retrieve one group of advertisement; Make up second window comprising the content and the advertisement of looking ahead, but do not show this second window; Detect in first window and near the cursor position of this link; Show second window in the front of first window then.

Described the embodiment of the invention, the device that wherein is used to help to browse electronic data comprises: browser is used to show first page that has to the link of other pages; First cache memory by browser administration; The boost browse window is used for when browser display first page, showing second page; Second cache memory is used for high-speed cache boost browse window; Extraction apparatus (or prefetcher), it is arranged to retrieval by the institute of the link in first page content identified; And user interface, it is arranged to the location of the cursor (or other marking toolses) that detects the link that is close to second page; Wherein the boost browse window is sightless till the location that detects cursor.

The prefetch target content

In one embodiment of the invention, providing a kind of is used to discern and/or the method for the Object linking of priority ordering retrieval related objective content.But can identification link in webpage or other identifying objects (for example, document, image, email message).On can searching page from the content of the link of any amount (that is, zero or more).

As previously mentioned, can be with default form or according to the standard of user's appointment and/or be that the standard of specific website or website customization is carried out looking ahead of content.Therefore, the user maybe less selection the content of link before (content of the link that perhaps alternate user maybe less selection), the content popular or link that the user more possibly select of looking ahead.

In an enforcement of the embodiment of the invention, the template of looking ahead can be used to discern one group of link on the page.The template of looking ahead can be designed to particular Web page or website, to link (or Object linking of recommending) through their position or location recognition objectives on the page.For example, search result list (for example, from search engine or trade website) can be positioned at the diverse location (for example, in the left side or the single hurdle on the right side of the page, in the two-column table lattice) on the different pages, and correspondingly is designed for the template of looking ahead of those pages.

Can look ahead equally through the described content of link except the link of discerning by the template of looking ahead, but give the higher right of priority of Object linking by the template identification of looking ahead.Schematically, the link that the default order of prefetch target content can be mated wherein them is arranged in the order of (perhaps at search result list) on the page, or (for example, parallel) look ahead content of some or all Object linkings simultaneously.

The boost browsing apparatus can be kept (or even producing) template of looking ahead, and perhaps retrieves them from central server or other sources.Therefore, when when browser loads specific webpage, use the boost browsing apparatus of browser operation to retrieve the template of looking ahead fast from central server.

In another was implemented, the template of looking ahead of webpage (or other guide) can comprise the Object linking tabulation on this page.When browsing or check the page through observing any amount of user to selection and the priority ordering of link and obtain this tabulation.Therefore, central server can be collected the data of the activity of browsing (for example, the page of visit, the link of selection) about a plurality of users, and extracts data with the link on identification and/or those user accessing web page of priority ordering.

In another enforcement of this embodiment of the present invention, all regard the all-links on the page as default Object linking, or the all-links in the search result list.Can with any order and/or with other linked contents content of looking ahead that walks abreast from any amount of Object linking.Further; Regard retrieval as Object linking equally as linking of the partial content relevant with Object linking; In this case, looked ahead as the content of a plurality of pages of removing from current page (current page that browser is opened) or a plurality of links and do not left current page.

Still in another is implemented, use the template of looking ahead, trial method also to be used for helping identification and/or priority ordering Object linking (for example, for the page that can not use the template of looking ahead) except perhaps substituting.For example, it should be Object linking that one group of trial method can be specified the link that has particular characteristics or meet specific criteria, or according to those characteristics or this Object linking of standard priority ordering.Exemplary characteristic comprises: the zone of the page wherein; Link (for example is positioned at wherein; Center, upper end, left side), font size, link color, be linked to identical content quantity (for example; Link to the certain content page is many more, and it just should receive higher right of priority more), be linked to the degree of closeness of image or other remarkable contents etc.

In another of present embodiment implemented, the user possibly select or not select the Object linking that is used to look ahead.For example; The user (for example can import a particular key order; ALT-B) select or in user interface a particular control or button to point to a certain links or an all-links on the page or (for example import some other keys order with the command context prefetcher; ALT-N) or control, to avoid this device to point to certain links or any link.

The user can train the boost browsing apparatus to link with recognition objective.For example, the user can select Object linking required on the page (for example, through around their picture frames, passing through or click them through rolling mouse), and this device is remembered this link so that when next user to access pages, discern automatically afterwards.Exemplarily, for trainer, the user can at first begin training mode (for example, through triggering the particular user interface control), select target link and releasing training mode then.

In an enforcement, the user can make up or customize the template of looking ahead, if the user often visits the page that the boost browsing apparatus does not have template, the then said template of looking ahead is useful.The user interface of this device can provide control to be linked at position in the page, to be Object linking, to make up template through selecting single link to wait with the select target link as Object linking, selectivity characteristic through specifying all links through recognition objective to allow the user.

As stated, it is movable to help the recognition objective link that the boost browsing apparatus can be collected browsing of user or preview (that is, boost is browsed).Therefore, if the user often selects or navigate to the link of arranging along page right side in particular station, in case then visit this website subsequently, user's boost browsing apparatus can be regarded this link as Object linking automatically and look ahead their related content.Similarly, if the user selects one group of link in the link with particular order (for example, from top to bottom, from top to bottom, from left to right), boost browsing apparatus looking ahead of priority ordering linked contents correspondingly then.

Be used for a plurality of user's data in order to collect and to analyze, install collected data and can share with central server, said then data can be distributed to their (and/or other users) boost browsing apparatus to help identification or priority ordering Object linking.For example, according to the activity data that the user from the visit specific website collects, it is most popular that central server can be discerned certain links (or the link in the ad-hoc location of the page of this website).Can share this information with user's device and become Object linking so that those link.Yet, in an enforcement, can option be provided to the user and not browse movable information so that do not share about them.

Therefore, keep and be used to discern and/or the central type database of priority ordering Object linking.When other were arranged when open any browser (or opening specific webpage) or at some, single boost browsing apparatus can receive data from database with period.For example, when browser points to specific webpage, can accessing database with retrieve relevant data.

Except or replace collecting outside the data (for example, which website they have visited, which link they have clicked) about User Activity, also from the retrieved web similar data at central database.This information can point out which page/link the site visitor the most often selects, and wherein selects their most popular sequential schedulings.Retrieve this information through central server or through user's boost browsing apparatus.

In a method of looking ahead, select to be linked as Object linking according to a number system (point system), or the priority ordering Object linking is used to look ahead.For example, from the information of collecting, can count to the appointment of the link on the webpage according to their popularity degree (for example, whenever selecting them once) at a distance from how long by boost browsing apparatus or central server.Can distribute according to trial method (for example, font size, be linked at the position in the page) equally and count.It is high more to be assigned to counting of link, with it regard as Object linking maybe be bigger and/or it is higher with right of priority that reception is used to look ahead.

Look ahead and be not restricted to occur or visible link in the single page.For example, page displayed is oversize and can not browse immediately in browser, and therefore some link on this page can be outside screen (off-screen).And visible as using search result list, lists of links can be crossed over a plurality of pages, and each page link is to the next page (for example, using " last one " and Next button).Therefore, be used for the method that boost is browsed at a kind of prefetching content, even link is perhaps being linked on the page of current page outside the screen, they can be Object linkings.In general, any amount of page that can look ahead and continue or be linked to current page (for example passing through Next button) forward, and/or the link that occurs on those pages.

In addition, when look ahead or in the boost browse window display web page or when comprising the other guide of link, can regard those links as Object linking.Therefore, the user can use boost browse window rapid navigation to leave multilayer or a plurality of link of this page, and he or she current browser is opened this page.

In a kind of method of looking ahead, when can not the searched targets content, can change the outward appearance of Object linking.For example can different colours (for example, grey, yellow) be changed in link is disabled with the warning users link.The failure of looking ahead because Object linking breaks off, perhaps receives the mistake of " not finding the page ", and necessary certificate or other safety labels are unavailable, or because various other reasonses.

In the enforcement of this embodiment of the present invention, the content that maybe will look ahead of scanning prefetching content is to seek in virus, Malware (for example spyware, ad ware), the salaciousness perhaps Pornograph etc.

Fig. 4 shows a kind of method of look ahead electronic data or the content according to the embodiment of the invention.As stated, look ahead with many different forms execution in other embodiments.

At state 402, user's browser is opened webpage or other digital contents (for example, document, image, email message), here it is thought " browser page ", to distinguish it and page displayed or other object contents in the boost browse window.

At state 404, from the part or remote memory (for example, from central server) retrieval be used to discern one group of data of Object linking on the browser page.These data can comprise the template of looking ahead, designated links tabulation, trial method etc.

At state 406, select one or more Object linkings with data retrieved in default mode (the for example whole links on the page) and/or the user mode 404.For example, if the page comprises the less link of relative populations (for example, five, ten), then they can be regarded Object linking (and beginning immediately to look ahead) as and need not wait to be ready to use in and help the recognition objective link and the data of design.Some or all-links point to the page or the website that is different from browser page, and therefore need look ahead and receive the content of browser page diverse location.

At state 408, the priority ordering Object linking.For example, individually or be used for the data that recognition objective links and combine to retrieve the data that are used for the priority ordering Object linking.The data of priority ordering Object linking can comprise about the recommendation order of the information of the relative pouplarity that links on the page (for example, from central server, from the website that browser page is provided), right of priority, trial method or the like.

At state 410, the prefetch target content.If the priority ordering Object linking is then with look ahead their content of priority order.In addition, can parallel search from the content of a plurality of Object linkings.The quantity of the prefetch operation of executed in parallel can depend on obtainable communication bandwidth.For example, if the user uses broadband connection, then, the user can executed in parallel much more more to look ahead compared with using dial-up connection.

Exemplarily, prefetching content can comprise Object linking full content that describe or that be positioned at assigned address (for example, URL or URL).Perhaps, can give up and be positioned at or from some contents (for example, advertisement, image) of this location retrieval.

Whether at state 412, confirming to look ahead proceed to next layer (that is the link in the prefetching content) or another page.If, then select another page, such as the page of retrieving as object content at state 410, and this method turns back to state 404.Otherwise method finishes.

Some time after the searched targets content can application state 412.For example, after state 410 retrieval of content, it can by high-speed cache up to the user be chosen in the boost browse window preview it.When this happens, the method for Fig. 4 can be applied to the page or the content of positive preview.

In another method of looking ahead, it is dynamic that recognition objective link and/or priority ordering Object linking are used to look ahead, and depends on that user's boost browses activity.For example, if the user selects first link of ad-hoc location on the preview webpage, suppose that then he or she also hopes the content of preview near the link of first link.Therefore, can hope that which content of browsing carries out some prediction to the viewer.

In another enforcement of this embodiment of the present invention; From by clicking charge (pay-per-click) or (for example by the advertisement of carrying out pay (pay-for-performance); Text advertisements, poster, image) prefetching content, rather than the counting of looking ahead when " click ".Especially, the content of advertisement or other types can be registered each user " point advances (click through) " (or selection) advertisement, and each the click to the entity that provides advertisement produces income.

In this enforcement, equally look ahead as other guide from advertisement content, be used to browse (perhaps, in a replaceable enforcement) but do not register " point advances " up to the advertisement of user's actual selection up to the advertisement of user's rolling mouse process.Exemplarily, when looking ahead ad content, URL that is used to look ahead or xml code can comprise that label, key word or ad content are not retrieved as other designators that the part point advances.When the user selects link (that is, produce point and advance), the routine " point advances " of beginning advertisement.This assists in ensuring that correct distribution advertising income.Yet, can content be provided rather than wait for new backup of asking from the version of looking ahead.

Therefore in the embodiment of the invention of having described, the automated process of looking ahead by second content of pages of first page identification comprises: retrieve data is to help to recognize the link of content page; In first page, recognize one or more links of other pages; The one or more links of priority ordering; For each link, from the page prefetching content of link identification; For first link to second page, structure comprises the boost browse window of prefetching content, and does not show this window; Detection is near the position of the cursor of first link; And after detecting cursor position, show the boost browse window.

In the embodiment of the invention of having described; When browsing first electronic page; Expect that from second electronic page that is linked to first electronic page computer implemented method of content comprises: when browser, showing first electronic page; Recognize one group of link of the target electronic page, cover the link of second electronic page; And, select link by browser operation person before, look ahead from the content of the target electronic page for each link that this group links.

Also describe a kind of automated process of content of the pay per click advertisements of looking ahead, each point has been advanced advertisement register paying automatically, having comprised: when browsing first page of electronic data, in first page, recognized first link of first pay per click advertisements; Look ahead from the content of pay per click advertisements, and do not cause the registration paying; Make up and do not show the boost browse window that comprises prefetching content; And have only when the user selects first link, pay for the advertisement registration that pays per click.

In addition; The boost browsing apparatus has been described; This boost browsing apparatus comprises: prefetcher, and it is arranged to when browser display covers first page of electronic data of first link of second page, looks ahead from the content of second page of electronic data; Data; It is arranged to help by said prefetcher prefetching content; Wherein data comprise link recognition data and/or link priority ordering data; Said link recognition data is arranged to identification first link, and said link priority ordering data are arranged to priority ordering first link in one group of link of first page; The window generator, it is arranged to and produces the boost browse window that comprises prefetching content; And cache memory, it is arranged to storage prefetching content and/or boost browse window.

Identification extraction and/or content status

In one embodiment of the invention, icon, button or other designators are presented in the page of electronic data, with the state of extraction or prefetching content the Object linking of indication in this page, and/or the state of object content.The designator of thinking " status indicator " can be included in any kind object (for example, animation or static icon) that embeds in the digital content, and provides visual and/or the audio status indication.

When status indicator was arranged to the instruction content state, it can be disclosed in whether detect potential safety hazard in the object content.Potential safety hazard can comprise: inappropriate content etc. perhaps in the salaciousness of virus, spyware, ad ware, other Malwares, Pornograph, other types.

Status indicator also can, or the state of opposite indicating target link or connect to the electronics of link institute content identified position.For example, status indicator can disclose link and break off, connects to the electronics of the linked sites or the page and have low bandwidth or noise is arranged, connect fast or slow, or the quality that connects about link or communication or some other information of state can be provided.

Status indicator can receive as the part webpage or the other guide that wherein show them.Replacedly; By some script that comprises in the webpage or code, come dynamically to insert designator by another assembly that is arranged to the user interface (for example, the user interface 104 of Fig. 1) that helps boost to browse, boost browsing apparatus or by some other client application or browser plug-in.

The single status designator can be relevant with each Object linking (or a designator is relevant with a plurality of Object linking), and can comprise control to take to relate to the operation that boost is browsed.For example; A left side is clicked or rolling mouse (uses or do not use some other key input through the designator relevant with Object linking; Such as the ALT key) can be used for extracting as trigger, the corresponding object content that extracts or look ahead again, and/or show the boost browse window that comprises this content.

Some other operation (for example; Right click designator, ALT clicks) can open menu or set of choices and browse experience (for example, open or close look ahead, adjust the timing that opens or closes the boost browse window, select information type designator is indicated to use, configuration user interface control) with the configuration boost.

In one embodiment of the invention, when recognition objective links, insert designator, and change outward appearance with the beginning of looking ahead, completion, the delay of indicative of targeted content, can not wait.The indication accomplished of looking ahead representes that object content is looked ahead and prepared to be presented in the boost browse window.The indication of successfully looking ahead inherently instruction content by high-speed cache or indicate this state separately.

Looking ahead the indication of failure maybe be different because of the different reasons of failure (for example, connecting out-of-date, object content non-availability, Break Link), or consistent and simply announcement can not accomplish and look ahead.Status indicator can be represented (for example, through mark or the number percent) that part is accomplished even how indication is accomplished of looking ahead.

Can use search result list, buy station, Email (network or client-based), online classification advertisement, working plate, blog, News Stories tabulation are with virtual any other type application or relate to and link the facility that is connected and the embodiment of embodiment of the present invention.Therefore these enforcements can be arranged to operating browser, e-mail program, NEWSERADER, search client, word processing application, spreadsheet program, database etc.Status indicator can be placed on next door, top, bottom or some other position that are fit to the relation between indication designator and the peer link.The placement of status indicator can be that the user is configurable.

Designator can be by means of DHTML (Dynamic Hyper Text Makeup Language), javascript or some other program or script and is embedded in the webpage.Designator can become the section layout for the page, and they occur therein, or floats on the browse window and be not the part of the page therefore.

Designator does not always need visual.Whether show that certain indicators depends on the quantity of Object linking on the page, information type that designator is represented, layout page etc. how.For example, if the page comprises a plurality of frames with many links, then link relevant designator and can not occur in cursor is moved to particular frame with some.In one embodiment, if can then can not link the show state designator from the link prefetching content for this.

When carrying out the prefetch target content, link relevant status indicator with respective objects and can change outward appearance.For example, status indicator can be luminous, flicker, change color or intensity, change sound, change design, show and move etc.Perhaps, indicate the designator of first state of looking ahead to replace by another designator of expression different conditions.Can strengthen or the other mark status indicator relevant with the object content of current demonstration in the boost browse window, be the current states designator to represent it.

Fig. 8 shows to be used in one embodiment of the invention indicate and looks ahead and/or how the status indicator of content status occurs.In Fig. 8, browser 800 display web pages 802, and comprise Object linking 804a-804d.Single designator 814a-814d is relevant with Object linking.

In this embodiment of the present invention, status indicator comprises the rectangle icon, possibly make us wandering back to and dwindle webpage.Before related objective link prefetching content was begun, icon can be simple, dark or opaque, shown in designator 814c.When completing successfully, shown in designator 814a, add lightning arrow (lightning bolt), the number of colluding or other acknowledge characters to icon when looking ahead.

For the current Object linking of just being looked ahead of its content, status indicator (for example, designator 814b) can comprise arrow or other movable symbols.The content (for example, or it is overtime to look ahead) of specific objective link then can be marked with the correlation behavior designator " X ", oblique line or other minus symbols, shown in designator 814d if can not look ahead.

In alternative embodiment of the present invention, when recognition objective links, the status indicator such as designator 814c can appear at first.Designator can keep identical appearance up to looking ahead successfully (for example, designator 814a) or failing (for example, designator 814d).In this alternative embodiment, if special high-speed data connects available so do not use designator 814b, said high-speed data connects to allow to look ahead to be accomplished fast.

In one embodiment of the invention, when selecting the designator relevant, show content from first Object linking with first Object linking when user's rolling mouse process or with some other mode.The user can rotate mouse roller or other inputs (for example, pushing arrow key) are provided then, and to show the content of extracting or looking ahead from next Object linking or a last Object linking, it depends on the direction of rotation.Therefore, in this embodiment of the present invention, the ability fast browsing is from the content of a plurality of Object linkings, and cursor moves and do not need fine.

When using roller (or input of equity) with when a status indicator moves on to another status indicator, can be through the distance scroll master browser page between two status indicators, only if the page the counterparty to not rolling again.The master browser page same distance of whether rolling no matter is used for rolling mouse and can be positioned next status indicator again through the cursor of status indicator.When the user can postpone by application time when a status indicator is rolled to next status indicator, avoid rolling too fast or be rolled to wrong status indicator helping.

In an enforcement of present embodiment, cursor automatically moves on to the next one or Last status designator.And the wherein webpage (for example, making cursor remain on the relative same position of display screen) of display-object link also can roll.Link and correlation behavior designator do not need to aim at the mark point-blank.If in aligning, do not form straight line, then when webpage rolled with a direction, the cursor that can squint was placed on the next designator.

If (for example be positioned at when user's cursor outside the boost browse window; When cursor is suspended on the correlation behavior designator) some time period after; Wherein the boost browse window routine of display-object content is closed; In this embodiment of the present invention, revise the behavior, so that window can not closed when cursor rests on the designator (or near designator).For example, no longer be positioned on the status indicator up to cursor, or take some other operation, the roll mouse wheel can cause the content (in identical or different boost browse window) of demonstration from the different target link always.

Other users input possibly browsed experience with the boost that similar or different modes influence the user.For example, when cursor of mouse is positioned at the boost browse window, push the object content rolling that up-down arrow (or left-right arrow) can cause demonstration.Yet, when cursor is in the master browser page, pushes those keys and can cause that cursor moves to one or next status indicator (and changing the object content that in the boost browse window, shows).

Similarly; When cursor of mouse is positioned at the boost browse window; By pressing page or leaf and Page Down keys or (for example clicking suitable control; " make progress " and " downwards " " forward " and " backward ") can cause by the content relevant and replace the object content that shows with last one or next status indicator.Yet when cursor was positioned at the master browser page, the content that provides identical input can cause this page was rolled.

Therefore in the embodiment of the invention of having described, the automated process that boost is browsed by second webpage that is linked to first webpage of browser display in browser window comprises: the Object linking that in first webpage, recognizes second webpage; In browser window, show first designator relevant with Object linking, first designator is indicated since the second webpage prefetching content; From the second webpage prefetching content; Show second designator that replaces first designator, the completion that the indication of second designator is looked ahead; Detection is near the position of the cursor of second designator; And response detects cursor position, shows second window that comprises prefetching content.

Also described another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the computer implemented method browsed of boost comprises: in browser window, show first electronic page that comprises one group of Object linking; Show first status indicator relevant, with the state of indication via the first Object linking prefetching content with first Object linking; And, if cursor is positioned on first status indicator, then in the boost browse window, show the content of being looked ahead.

Also described a kind of boost and browsed the computer implemented method of digital content, this method comprises: in browser window, show first electronic page that comprises one group of Object linking; For each Object linking, indicate the content status of corresponding Object linking; If the content status of corresponding first Object linking changes, then change the first state indication relevant with first Object linking; And, if cursor is positioned on first status indicator, then in the boost browse window, show the content of corresponding first Object linking.

Also described a kind of device that helps boost to browse electronic data, and comprised: browser is used to show the homepage of the electronic data of the link that covers other pages; The boost browse window, it is arranged to when the browser display homepage, shows first page of electronic data; Prefetcher, it is arranged to automatic retrieval by the institute of the link in homepage content identified, is included in first link of first page, and does not wait for that the user asks with retrieval of content; And user interface; It is arranged to: (1) demonstration links the first relevant status indicator with first; With the look ahead state of first content of pages of indication, (2) outward appearance of first status indicator if the state of looking ahead changes, and the cursor near first status indicator is detected in (3); Wherein the boost browse window is invisible up to the position that detects cursor, and what this moment, the boost browse window became is visible.

Also described a kind of graphical user interface that helps boost to browse electronic data, this graphical user interface comprises: the browser window that is used to show electronic data; The one group of Object linking that in electronic data, shows, wherein each Object linking is discerned corresponding object content; For the correlation behavior designator of each Object linking, it is arranged to the state of indicating the corresponding object content of looking ahead;

The cursor of user-operable; And the boost browse window that is configured to the display-object content; Wherein the boost browse window is invisible is positioned at or near status indicator up to cursor.

Boost browse member (strip)

In one embodiment of the invention, boost browse member or hurdle are provided, to help the object content of a plurality of link identifications in the boost browsing pages.For example, when in browser, showing, the boost browse member can cover or be superimposed upon in the tabulation when the tabulation of search result link (for example from search engine, from the trader or auction a little).

Then, can be in bar mobile subscriber's interface cursor, and when cursor through or during contiguous link, can open the boost browse window with the display-object content.Perhaps, if the boost browse window is opened, the object content that then when cursor arrives different linking, shows can change.

In difference is implemented, boost browse member or hurdle can be level, vertical, the diagonal angle or even non-directional so that cover or keep near the link in the browser page.Bar can be any thickness (for example, 1/4th inches, one centimetre), and can be that transparent or translucent (for example, light gray) is so that allow the user to read or discern the link under the bar.

When presenting lists of links (for example, in browser page) first, can or application bar automatically.If application bar automatically, then when user's rolling mouse through or selective listing in first Object linking and show that when having the boost browse window of corresponding object content, bar can occur at this moment.Therefore, bar can be close to the boost browse window or as limit of this window or edge and occur.

In Fig. 2, bar 230 is close to the left side of boost browse window 210, but only expands to the tabulation of link 204, rather than the whole length of window.In other were implemented, bar can expand to the whole length of window.As shown in Figure 2, bar 230 can expand to below the base of window 210, so it appears on the all-links 204.

In an enforcement, when opening the boost browse window and showing the boost browse member, user interface cursor (for example, the cursor of mouse among Fig. 2 240) can move to the position in the bar and hold within it on the link that is presented in the window or near.This can be through making the quick preview of user become easier from the content of other links at moving cursor in the bar of those links.If cursor moves (or click) outside bar and the boost browse window opened, then bar can close or remove.Replacedly, bar can initially be placed in the boost browse window.

If cursor moves to this a end in this; And the lists of links relevant with this expansion is through that end; Leave display device (for example, to another page or screen), the webpage or the other guide that then comprise lists of links are understood automatic rolling to show other link.This can automatic expansion when the rolling content, as long as link occurs in addition.Replacedly, this in addition can expand to outside the lists of links, to allow the user to continue to roll webpage one end of the page (for example, to).If the boost browse window is opened when the rolling webpage, window can remain on the same position of display device when then continuing when rolling.

The boost browse member can be produced by other assemblies of user interface or boost browsing apparatus and safeguard.

Fig. 5 shows and uses boost browse member or the hurdle method to help boost to browse according to one embodiment of present invention.

At state 502, user's browser is opened webpage or other digital contents (for example, document, image, email message) that comprises the search result link tabulation.Here can think that this webpage is " browser page ", so that it distinguishes over page displayed or other object contents in the boost browse window.

At state 504, recognition objective link comprises some or all search result link.Any or all link of the default identification of ability is used the template of looking ahead, can be used most popular list of links etc.Can priority ordering link, and retrieve some or all Object linking content identified.

Can make up (but not showing) boost browse window to the object content of some or all Object linkings.Exemplarily, retrieve all object contents, but needn't (that is, walk abreast) simultaneously.

At state 506, the boost browse member is presented at the search result list top.In case retrieve the content of one or more Object linkings, just show this bar; Maybe when showing the first boost browse window, can show this bar; In case or recognition objective link, just show this bar.

At state 508,, in one or more boost browse window, show object content for this link as user during at mobile subscriber's interface cursor on the Object linking but in the boost browse member.For example, can open first window during through first Object linking when user's rolling mouse.This window can be opened always when user's moving cursor, and the content of other links can replace the content of first link in the window.Replacedly, when user's rolling mouse process Object linking, can open the boost browse window, when cursor leaves link, close this window then.

At state 510, if moving to the edge and the search result list of browser window, cursor expands to another page or screen, then browser page can roll (for example, upwards, left) on screen, to bring other links when needs., the page will expand or extend the boost browse member when rolling.This method finishes after state 510.

Therefore in the embodiment of the invention of having described; A kind of computer implemented method that helps boost to browse digital content comprises: when in browser, browsing first page of digital content; In first page, recognize one group of link of other digital content pages, be included in first link of second page; This group in browser chains the stack bar; Detection is in bar and near the position of cursor of first link; And respond detected cursor position, show the boost browse window of the digital content that comprises second page.

Also described and a kind ofly be used to help boost to browse the graphical user interface of electronic data, having comprised: be used to show the browser window of first page of electronic data, wherein first page is included in a plurality of links of other pages of electronic data; And be superimposed upon said a plurality of non-opacities that chain (non-opaque) bar.

In addition; Describe and a kind ofly be used to help boost to browse the boost browsing apparatus of electronic data; Wherein this device comprises: prefetcher; It is arranged to when browser display comprises first page of electronic data of a plurality of links, looks ahead from the content of second page of electronic data, and wherein a plurality of links are included in first link of second page; And user interface, it is arranged to and shows and to be superimposed upon a plurality of bars that chain, and is positioned at said and during near first link when cursor, and demonstration comprises the boost browse window of said prefetching content.

The figure historical navigation tree that is used for search/browse

In one embodiment of the invention, provide a kind of and be used to help user's navigation or navigate search results or to the method and apparatus of some other set of the peer link of electronic data.In the enforcement of this embodiment, figure historical navigation tree is provided, wherein the corresponding different web pages of each node or other data sets (for example, document, image, email message).

Said tree can be in the user display screen curtain demonstration Anywhere, such as in the window below next-door neighbour's boost browse window (or the next-door neighbour opens the below, position of boost browse window), along the left side of display screen or right side etc.In its window, historical navigation tree starts from representing the root of one group of new search result or new browsing session, and is after this developing (for example, from left to right, from top to bottom) with any direction.When the new search of beginning, can place new tree root, when opening new browser window, or any time of user's request, new tree has just begun.

Through detecting the website that the user just browsing or the execution of page detection new search.The new browsing session of supposition beginning when open any browser.If the website that the user is just browsing uses search engine and this engine of CU, then can place the root of new historical navigation tree this moment.Historical navigation tree before any still can appear in the identical window, but when present tree develops, is rolled to outside the screen.

In one embodiment; Whenever the user (for example navigates; In browser) to or during one of preview (for example, in the boost browse window) search result list (or some other top layers link in the page of just browsing), new child node is added to present tree and is connected to root.When the user continues to navigate or preview linked content, more node adds and also is linked to the historical navigation tree.Therefore, for the other guide set of each page, website or user capture, add another node to tree.

After this, the user can be through the content of selecting suitable node to be quickly navigate to or preview was visited in the past.Exemplarily, if the user clicks (for example, a left side is clicked) node, then user's browser is opened corresponding content.If user's rolling mouse is then opened corresponding content and is used in the preview of boost browse window through node (for example, continuing the preset time cycle) or right click node.

Therefore, the cache memory of boost browsing apparatus can be stored the content of any amount of node in corresponding current historical navigation tree and/or the former tree.Replacedly, when the user click or rolling mouse during through node from target pages or station search content.

When the user clicks or rolling mouse during through the node of corresponding particular network area or website, may be displayed on the lists of links of this zone visit.Therefore, node can be represented the set of webpage or content, and is not only single document.

Allow the user to change the outward appearance of node.For example; If if user decision is not found more interesting or more helpful content so just guarantees further to check particular webpage; Then his color, size or other characteristics (for example, make its flicker, make its activity) that can select to change node with mark it.Can use a specific markers is just browsing or the corresponding node of content of preview with the user is current with identification.

Similarly, the user can be through selecting (for example right the click) node and with his note input file and note node and/or search (for example, with the name search), said file is preserved with tree.

As stated, can begin new search/browse historical navigation tree to each new search.Yet when the user only revised the search terms of current (or before) search, this can cause to current (or in the past) the new branch of tree interpolation simply.

Other assemblies by user interface or boost browsing apparatus produce and safeguard search/browse historical navigation tree.

Fig. 6 describes search/browse historical navigation tree according to an embodiment of the invention.Be used to produce the plug-in card program enforcement of the program code of this tree by existing browser.

In Fig. 6, window 602 comprises tree frame 604 and advertisement frames 606.The horizontal characteristic of window 602 make window be suitable for being placed on the boost browse window or under.In other embodiments, window 602 can be a vertical direction.

The historical navigation tree that in tree frame 604, shows starts from root 610, in this example, and said search corresponding to employed Honda Motor.This search has any amount of link of the related content of turning back to.In these links, the user browsed so far or preview by the webpage or the websites of two top layers link identification of corresponding node 612,614.

When user capture or preview during, add other node to represent this content to the content of those pages.As shown in Figure 6, can any amount of node of note.This note can be specified from the HTML extraction of corresponding content or by the user automatically.Except (or replacement) descriptive text also can show the sign of the tissue relevant with the node content.

Extended window 602 is to allow further inspection in Fig. 6.In the difference of this embodiment of the present invention was implemented, window was gone up relative narrower, about 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches at height (when horizontal) or width (when homeotropic alignment time).

Visual historical navigation tree allows the user to follow the tracks of his navigation like a cork and jumps to another node content from a node content fast.Even because after Search Results was left in user's navigation, window 602 still stayed open, he can fast and return like a cork.Window 602 comprises that standard control (for example button) is to close, expand, to dwindle or other action pane.

Because preserve historical navigation tree (for example arriving hard disk), the user can open historical navigation tree window (for example using conventional browser pull-down menu), and this historical navigation tree can automatically increase nearest history tree.

The advertisement that in advertisement frames 606, shows can comprise relate to tree frame 604 in the advertisement, the advertisement that the specific node that belongs to the user is correlated with, the sponsored advertisement of pay-per-view etc. of the relevant search of tree.Any of tree frame 604 and advertisement frames 606 or both comprise scroll bar (level and/or vertical).

Therefore in the embodiment of the invention of having described, a kind of computer implemented method that helps boost to browse digital content comprises: be relevant to first page that the user browses digital content, but present the root node of navigation tree, wherein corresponding first page of root node; Chains is to the user's of second page of the digital content of first page selection, adds child node to tree, wherein corresponding second page of child node and be connected to root node; And when the user selects the other page of digital content, add other node, the corresponding page in addition of said other node to tree.

Also described and a kind ofly be used to help boost to browse the graphical user interface of electronic data, having comprised: the tree window, it is arranged to and combines browser window to show to be used to browse electronic data and/or boost browse window with the preview electronic data; And show that in said tree window the navigated graphical tree that comprises node, said node correspondence have been browsed or the electronic data of preview.

Further described a kind of boost browsing apparatus, be used to help boost to browse electronic data, this device comprises: browse window, and it is arranged to the user and shows electronic data; And user interface, it is arranged to and makes up the tree comprise node, and said node is corresponding to content displayed in the browse window, and through showing once more that in browse window the content corresponding to user-selected node helps user's navigation content.

The program environment of wherein carrying out the embodiment of the invention exemplarily combines multi-purpose computer or such as the specialized equipment of handheld computer.For the sake of clarity, omit the details (for example, processor, storer, data-carrier store, display) of this equipment.

Should also be understood that the technology that to use the multiple technologies embodiment of the present invention.For example, method described herein can be used in the software implementation of carrying out on the computer system, or in the hardware of a kind of combination of the specific integrated circuit that uses microprocessor or other particular design, programmable logic device or its various combinations, implements.Especially, method described herein can be implemented by sequence of computer-executable instructions resident on the computer-readable medium that is fit to.The computer-readable medium that is fit to can comprise that volatibility (for example, RAM) and/or non-volatile (for example, ROM, hard disk) storer, carrier wave and transmission medium (for example, copper cash, concentric cable, fiber medium).Exemplary carrier wave can be taked the form of coming electricity, electromagnetism or the light signal of transmission of digital data stream along LAN, public access network or some other communication link such as the Internet.

Above embodiment of the present invention only is used for explaining and purpose of description.They be not exhaustive maybe neither be intended to the present invention is limited disclosed form.Therefore, scope of the present invention limits accompanying claims rather than top explanation.

Claims

1. a computer implemented method is used for when browsing first electronic page, helping preview to be linked to second electronic page of first electronic page, and this method comprises:

When in browser, showing first electronic page, retrieve the content of second electronic page;

Produce and do not show that boost browse window, this boost browse window comprise the said content of second electronic page;

Detect the interest of user to second electronic page; And

Show the boost browse window;

Wherein the boost browse window does not comprise the thumbnail of second electronic page.

2. method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises, before said retrieval:

Be positioned at one group of link in first electronic page, be included in the link of second electronic page.

3. method as claimed in claim 2 further comprises:

Prioritize is carried out in link to being located, to retrieve the link content identified of being located.

4. method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises, before said generation:

Retrieve the one group advertisement relevant with the said content of second electronic page.

5. method as claimed in claim 4, wherein said generation comprises:

In the boost browse window, comprise this group advertisement.

6. method as claimed in claim 4, wherein said generation comprises:

Be substituted in the one or more advertisements that comprise in the said content of second electronic page with this group advertisement.

7. method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises, before said demonstration:

The said boost browse window of high-speed cache.

8. method as claimed in claim 7, the said boost browse window of cache memory high speed buffer memory of wherein separating at cache memory with the browser use.

9. method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said retrieval comprise the said content of second electronic page of looking ahead.

10. method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said retrieval comprises:

Recognize the link of second electronic page; And

Before the interest of said detection user, extract the said content of second electronic page to second electronic page.

11. method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said retrieval comprises:

When showing first electronic page, locate one group of link in first electronic page automatically; And

Retrieve one or more link institute content identified of locating, be included in the link of second electronic page.

12. the method like claim 11 further comprises, before the one or more link institute content identified of locating of said retrieval:

To carrying out prioritize by the retrieval of the link institute content identified of being located.

13. method as claimed in claim 1, but wherein the said content of second electronic page comprises the navigation content with one or more hyperlink.

14. method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said detection comprises:

Detect the link that mouse moves through second electronic page.

15. method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said detection comprises:

Detect the user and cursor is positioned over the link that is adjacent to second electronic page.

16. method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said detection comprises:

Detect the user with cursor be positioned over contiguous with to the relevant icon of linking of second electronic page.

17. method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

If the position of cursor in said boost browse window moves to the position outside the said boost browse window, then close said boost browse window.

18. method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

If moving cursor is adjacent to the link of the 3rd electronic page in first electronic page; Then close said boost browse window and show another boost browse window that comprises the 3rd electronic page content, said the 3rd electronic page is extracted in the link that moving cursor is adjacent to the 3rd electronic page before.

19. method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

If the user operates indicating equipment in said boost browse window, then replace first electronic page in the browser with second electronic page.

20. method as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

If in said boost browse window, choose the link of the 3rd electronic page, then replace the said content of second electronic page in the said boost browse window with the content of the 3rd electronic page.

21. method as claimed in claim 1, wherein first electronic page comprises that search result list and said retrieval comprise:

The last set item that produces search result list is transferred to central server.

22. a computer implemented method is used for second electronic document that when browsing first electronic document preview is linked to first electronic document, this method comprises:

When in browser window, showing first electronic document, automatically detect the position of the cursor of the link that in browser window, is adjacent to second electronic document; And

Respond said detection, but show the boost browse window of the navigation content that comprises second electronic document automatically;

Wherein through in said boost browse window, clicking, but navigation content makes the user can navigate to the content except first electronic document and second electronic document.

23. the method like claim 22 further comprises, before said automatic demonstration:

Produce, and do not show said boost browse window.

24. like the method for claim 22, wherein said automatic demonstration comprises:

But retrieval navigation content; And

But produce said boost browse window to comprise navigation content.

25. like the method for claim 22, wherein said automatic detection comprises:

The position of cursor is chained in detection.

26. like the method for claim 22, but that wherein said navigation content comprises is following one or more:

SGML is used to format electronic document; And

Scripted code is used to format electronic document.

27. like the method for claim 22, but that wherein said navigation content comprises is following one or more:

HTML (HTML);

XML (extend markup language);

ASP (Active Server Pages);

Javascript; And

PHP (hypertext pretreater).

28. one kind is used to help boost to browse the boost browsing apparatus of electronic data, this device comprises:

Extraction apparatus, it is arranged to when browser display covers first page of link of second page, but extracts navigation content from second page;

The window generator, but it is configured to the boost browse window that generation comprises navigation content;

Cache memory, it is configured to the said boost browse window of storage; And

User interface, it is configured to the location of the cursor that detects the link that is adjacent to second page;

Wherein, response detects the location of cursor, shows said boost browse window; And

Wherein but navigation content can be by operation to navigate to the content except first page and second page.

29. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 28, wherein said extraction apparatus further is configured to the link in identification first page, is included in the link of second page.

30. the boost browsing apparatus like claim 29 further comprises:

The database that comprises template, it is configured to the position of one group of link in identification first page.

31. the boost browsing apparatus like claim 29 further comprises:

Be used for helping discerning one group of trial method of the link of first page.

32. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 29, wherein said extraction apparatus further is configured to prioritize is carried out in the link of being discerned, to extract the link content identified of being discerned.

33. the boost browsing apparatus like claim 32 further comprises:

Be used to help one group of trial method of said prioritize.

34. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 28, wherein said window generator further is arranged to and keeps said boost browse window invisible, up to the location of said detection cursor.

35. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 28, wherein said window generator further is configured to and in said boost browse window, comprises one group of advertisement.

36. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 28, wherein said cache memory separates with the cache memory of browser administration.

37. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 28, the location of wherein said cursor comprises that mouse moves through.

38. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 28, wherein:

Browser can navigate to the position of storage of electronic; And

Said boost browse window is arranged to the preview electronic data and browser is not navigate to this position.

39. like the boost browsing apparatus of claim 28, wherein said extraction apparatus was configured to before said cursor positioning and looks ahead from the content of second page.