US20190244282A1 - Computerized exchange network - Google Patents
Computerized exchange network Download PDFInfo
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- US20190244282A1 US20190244282A1 US16/385,329 US201916385329A US2019244282A1 US 20190244282 A1 US20190244282 A1 US 20190244282A1 US 201916385329 A US201916385329 A US 201916385329A US 2019244282 A1 US2019244282 A1 US 2019244282A1
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions
- G06Q30/0601—Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
- G06Q30/0641—Shopping interfaces
- G06Q30/0643—Graphical representation of items or shoppers
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
- G06F16/50—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor of still image data
- G06F16/58—Retrieval characterised by using metadata, e.g. metadata not derived from the content or metadata generated manually
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
- G06Q30/0241—Advertisements
- G06Q30/0251—Targeted advertisements
- G06Q30/0265—Vehicular advertisement
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions
- G06Q30/0601—Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
- G06Q30/0623—Item investigation
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/32—Circuits or arrangements for control or supervision between transmitter and receiver or between image input and image output device, e.g. between a still-image camera and its memory or between a still-image camera and a printer device
- H04N1/32101—Display, printing, storage or transmission of additional information, e.g. ID code, date and time or title
- H04N1/32128—Display, printing, storage or transmission of additional information, e.g. ID code, date and time or title attached to the image data, e.g. file header, transmitted message header, information on the same page or in the same computer file as the image
- H04N1/32133—Display, printing, storage or transmission of additional information, e.g. ID code, date and time or title attached to the image data, e.g. file header, transmitted message header, information on the same page or in the same computer file as the image on the same paper sheet, e.g. a facsimile page header
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/222—Studio circuitry; Studio devices; Studio equipment
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- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
- G03B15/00—Special procedures for taking photographs; Apparatus therefor
- G03B15/02—Illuminating scene
- G03B15/06—Special arrangements of screening, diffusing, or reflecting devices, e.g. in studio
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
- G03B37/00—Panoramic or wide-screen photography; Photographing extended surfaces, e.g. for surveying; Photographing internal surfaces, e.g. of pipe
- G03B37/02—Panoramic or wide-screen photography; Photographing extended surfaces, e.g. for surveying; Photographing internal surfaces, e.g. of pipe with scanning movement of lens or cameras
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N2201/00—Indexing scheme relating to scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, and to details thereof
- H04N2201/32—Circuits or arrangements for control or supervision between transmitter and receiver or between image input and image output device, e.g. between a still-image camera and its memory or between a still-image camera and a printer device
- H04N2201/3201—Display, printing, storage or transmission of additional information, e.g. ID code, date and time or title
- H04N2201/3269—Display, printing, storage or transmission of additional information, e.g. ID code, date and time or title of machine readable codes or marks, e.g. bar codes or glyphs
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N2201/00—Indexing scheme relating to scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, and to details thereof
- H04N2201/32—Circuits or arrangements for control or supervision between transmitter and receiver or between image input and image output device, e.g. between a still-image camera and its memory or between a still-image camera and a printer device
- H04N2201/3201—Display, printing, storage or transmission of additional information, e.g. ID code, date and time or title
- H04N2201/3271—Printing or stamping
Definitions
- Items such as goods and real estate
- the first includes holding an inventory of the items at a physical location. This approach involves visiting a dealer or merchant's place of business, listening to a salesperson's pitch, viewing or testing selected goods, and then haggling over price.
- consumers purchase real estate by the traditional approach by visiting and touring the real estate and then haggling over price.
- This approach advantageously provides consumers an opportunity to view the particular product or real estate in-person and receive hands-on demonstrations of features and options or the ability to view it in its entirety.
- this approach is time-consuming and interacting with a salesperson can be intimidating for many consumers.
- the second approach involves a “virtual showroom” in which items are held in an inventory where consumers can research and price goods, real estate, and the like on the Internet.
- This approach advantageously allows consumers to search for items for sale, such as goods or real estate, in less time and with less salesperson interaction than the traditional approach.
- consumers are often limited to stock photographs and generic information and must forego the more traditional “walk around” experience. Consequently, even if actual photographs and/or videos of a particular product, real estate, or the like are available, they are often limited in scope and cannot adequately convey how a product or real estate appears in-person and its actual condition.
- the information available is often non-specific and relates generally to a make and model rather than specifically to the particular item. In other words, consumers sacrifice advantageous aspects of the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach in order to enjoy the convenience and other advantages of the virtual showroom approach.
- a virtual showroom seller attempting to make a high volume of sales must quickly acquire information about goods or real estate in its inventory, including photographs, videos, and/or other information indicative of the condition of the goods or real estate, and make that information available to consumers on the Internet.
- Conventional systems and methods are unable to acquire photographs and/or videos of goods or real estate and post them on the Internet with the necessary throughput to keep up with the quick turnaround of high-volume sales.
- the limited scope of information available about items in a virtual showroom leads to increased bandwidth usage in communications networks, such as the Internet, increased processing load in devices hosting the virtual showroom, and decreased power availability in batteries powering devices on which the virtual showroom is displayed.
- the limited scope of information provides fewer categories with which to distinguish among item entries in the virtual showroom. Accordingly, more entries will satisfy a consumer's desired criteria, which lead to more entries being accessed and displayed.
- a computerized exchange network makes available on the Internet collected images and/or videos of items under inspection, such as goods, real estate, or the like.
- An aspect of this end-to-end solution captures images and other information of an item under inspection, processes and stores the images and information, and adds the item to a virtual showroom or other virtual inspection site that presents an inventory of such goods, real estate, or the like.
- This aspect of the solution provides users with extensive information about the particular items under inspection. For example, users, such as consumers, can inspect goods or real estate fixtures available in the inventory along with the traditional benefits of a virtual showroom.
- this aspect of the solution provides sellers with a user-friendly and quick (e.g., 7 minutes or less per good or fixture) way of acquiring images and information of a particular good or real estate fixture and creating a virtual showroom to display it.
- This aspect makes high-volume “no-haggle” sales tactics economical to employ among a network of sellers. Further, this aspect reduces network bandwidth usage in communications networks and reduces utilization of computing resources in computing devices storing acquired images and information.
- a system for rendering a virtual showroom comprises a front-end information acquisition device for acquiring one or more images of an item of interest.
- the system further comprises a database for storing data representing the acquired images, a detailed criteria data structure that includes data representing objective information about the item of interest, and a desired criteria data structure that includes data representing objective information about a desired item.
- a system for determining a criterion value associated with a criterion identifier for an item of interest includes a memory storage component for providing data representing an image of an item of interest, in which the item of interest has an attribute defined by the criterion identifier and the associated criterion value.
- a criterion identifier component for providing the criterion identifier for providing the criterion identifier, a value determination component for ascertaining the corresponding criterion value of the criterion identifier from the data representing the image of the item of interest, and a criterion value component for providing the ascertained criterion value are provided.
- a system for determining satisfaction of an actual criterion value of an item of interest that includes a criterion identifier component for providing a criterion identifier associated with both the actual criterion value and a desired criterion value for a desired item. Further included is a desired criterion value component for providing data representing the desired criterion value, an actual criterion value component for providing data representing the actual criterion value, and a match component.
- the match component is configured to perform a comparison of the data representing the desired criterion value and the data representing the actual criterion value.
- FIG. 1 is a diagram of a communication network environment in which aspects of the invention may be implemented.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a comprehensive condition report in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3A is an exemplary addendum printed on vinyl in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3B is an exemplary buyers guide printed on vinyl in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating a data structure for criterion identifiers and associated criterion values for an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4B illustrates a component for determining criterion values associated with criterion identifiers for an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4C is a flow chart illustrating a method of determining criterion values associated with criterion identifiers for an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating a data structure for criterion identifiers and associated criterion values for a desired item according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5B illustrates a component for determining when a criterion value for a desired item satisfies a criterion value of an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5C is a flow chart illustrating a method of determining when a criterion value for a desired item satisfies a criterion value of an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5D is a flow chart illustrating a method of determining when an amount of matched criterion values satisfies a threshold value according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a data structure for a plurality of items of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary user interface inventory display in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary user interface alert in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary communication network environment for implementing aspects of the present invention.
- collected images and/or videos of objects or scenes are inventoried and made available via the Internet in a virtual showroom, for example.
- the exemplary communication network includes front-end information acquisition components 102 -A, 102 -B, and 102 -N, a server 104 , a database 106 , an administrator console portal 108 , and end-user console portals 110 -A, 110 -B, and 110-N.
- the front-end information acquisition components 102 are each communicatively connected to the server 104 .
- server 104 is communicatively connected to the database 106 , which is communicatively connected to the administrator console portal 108 and the end-user console portals 110 .
- Exemplary communicative connections include a telecommunications network utilizing the Internet Protocol communications protocol, such as the Internet, or a communications channel employing serial and/or parallel communications methods.
- aspects of the exemplary communication network can be operated remotely and permit complete integration from end-to-end, ensuring a centralized data repository that is scalable for future growth.
- the components of the exemplary communication network provide an end-to-end solution in which images and other information of a particular object are acquired, processed, stored, and used to create an entry for the object in a virtual showroom 700 ( FIG. 7 ), all with minimal human effort and in a short enough period of time to make a high volume of image and information acquisitions economically feasible.
- the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 provides simplicity and portability and employs software that can be utilized across multiple sites and platforms and is easy to use, install, and support.
- Contemplated objects include, by way of example and not limitation, automobiles, boats, watercraft, recreational vehicles, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, trailers, aircraft, vessel interiors, real estate and associated structures and fixtures, and the like.
- improvements are provided in the fields of automated object imaging, online marketplaces, and transportation maintenance and safety by providing a means to collect and inventory images and other information in a small amount of time and with little or no human involvement. Further advantages include increased user efficiency, reduced network bandwidth usage, and reduced computing resource utilization due to the decrease in the amount of time required to locate a particular item of interest.
- front-end information acquisition components 102 are adapted for acquiring images of an object of interest.
- images include still photographs (e.g., snap shots), moving photographs (e.g., videos or movies), panoramics, stereoscopic photographs, infrared images, or any combination thereof.
- images of only a portion of an object may be acquired.
- front-end information acquisition components 102 are configured for taking images of identifying information or any areas of the object that are particularly noteworthy, such as damaged areas, areas most likely to be damaged, identification numbers, and the like.
- a salesperson can provide a video demonstration of the object's features and options to be integrated into a comprehensive condition report ( FIG. 2 ) or a virtual showroom or inventory ( FIGS. 6 and 7 ).
- Exemplary front-end information acquisition components 102 include those described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,638, incorporated herein by reference above.
- the server 104 of FIG. 1 hosts (e.g., stores and/or distributes) acquired images and information for use by consumers or sellers via the Internet.
- Server 104 receives acquired images from front-end information acquisition components 102 and stores them on computer-readable media.
- server 104 inventories, compresses, stitches, or otherwise processes the received images in addition to, or in the absence of, such actions by front-end information acquisition components 102 . Further embodiments of server 104 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated herein by reference above.
- database 106 is associated with server 104 for organizing stored images and content.
- Database 106 may reside on server 104 or on an external computing device that is connected to server 104 via a communications channel.
- Database 106 stores the acquired images along with metadata or other corresponding information relating to the images and/or the objects themselves.
- database 106 may store information corresponding to imaged vehicles including, by way of example and not limitation, vehicle stock number, VIN number, vehicle color, vehicle make, vehicle model, vehicle type, objective vehicle condition information, and the like.
- the information contained in database 106 is used with a website template stored on server 104 or an external server for sselling the objects to consumers via a virtual showroom.
- database 106 provides a common location for multiple sellers to make their inventories mutually available.
- Database 106 is capable of using various standards, such as SQL, ODBC, and JDBC, for example.
- Exemplary database management systems (DBMS) include MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, and SAP.
- Database 106 and the information it contains is accessible via the Internet, such as through the use of a web browser or an API. Further embodiments of database 106 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated herein by reference above.
- administrator console portal 108 provides a means for managing information stored in database 106 and/or on server 104 .
- the information contained in database 106 is used with administrator console portal 108 stored on server 104 or an external server for managing an inventory of objects or acquired images to be displayed on in a virtual showroom.
- Such an inventory management application advantageously allows for easily tracking the progress of an object among the various stages of image acquisition by front-end information acquisition components 102 , image processing by server 104 , and inventory creation by server 104 and/or database 106 , for example.
- a seller can execute an administrator console portal 108 application remotely (e.g., via a web application) to provide an automated ticketing process for tracking object progress.
- Administrator console portal 108 also provides metrics and reporting data and tracks objects, customers, and process information, in one embodiment. In additional embodiments, administrator console portal 108 provides access to detailed logs and reporting to troubleshoot object-processing errors. The metadata and other corresponding information relating to the images and/or the objects permit a determination to be made about the location of image and video files. Further embodiments of administrator console portal 108 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated by reference above.
- end-user console portals 110 shown in FIG. 1 provide a means for users, such as consumers or sellers, to access the acquired images, content, and information stored in database 106 .
- end-user console portals 110 are computing devices, such as a personal computer, a mobile device, a tablet computing device, and the like.
- end-user console portals 110 include printing devices for vinyl addenda, as further described below and in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/920,576, incorporated herein by reference above. Further embodiments of end-user console portals 110 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated herein by reference above.
- end-user console portals 110 need not be purchasers of goods or real estate. Instead, such users may include inspectors, inventory/property managers, maintenance personnel, etc. Further, a user may be non-human, such as a system or apparatus that controls a technological process. It is also contemplated that in an embodiment, access by end-user console portal 110 to database 106 and/or server 104 is dependent upon the payment of a fee. In an additional embodiment, access of end-user console portals 110 to database 106 and/or server 104 depend upon successful authentication of end-user console portals 110 , such as through the use of a password.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a comprehensive condition report, generally indicated at 200 , embodying aspects of the present invention.
- the comprehensive condition report 200 provides detailed information about an item of interest and/or articles that comprise an item of interest.
- comprehensive condition report 200 includes information acquired by front-end information acquisition components 102 and is adapted for displaying on a graphical user interface (GUI) of devices that comprise end-user console portals 110 and/or administrator console portal 108 .
- GUI graphical user interface
- comprehensive condition report 200 includes an item identifier 202 , an item overview component 204 , alternate view image thumbnails 206 , a factual information component 208 , a subjective information component 210 , an exchange component 212 , an exterior interactive panoramic image 214 , an interior interactive panoramic image 216 , an audio component 218 , a video component 220 , an item history component 222 , a delivery tracking component 224 , a sensory information component 226 , an undercarriage component 228 , and a damage component 230 .
- comprehensive condition report 200 contains components and/or information conveyed via multiple content formats. For example, information may be conveyed via audio, visual, text, and like formats. It is to be understood that comprehensive condition report 200 includes any combination of components without deviating from the scope of the invention.
- the item identifier 202 is adapted for associating comprehensive condition report 200 with a particular item of interest about which comprehensive condition report 200 provides information.
- item identifier 202 is text that includes a year of manufacture, a make, and a model of a vehicle about which comprehensive condition report 200 provides information. It is contemplated that other information, such as a VIN number and the like, may also be used.
- item identifier 202 allows for the unique identification of comprehensive condition report 200 among other comprehensive condition reports, such as in an inventory of comprehensive condition reports in a virtual showroom, for example.
- Item identifier 202 may also comprise an image, a video, or other content formats that allow comprehensive condition report 200 to be identified and associated with an item of interest.
- item identifier 202 corresponds to one of identification fields 604 (e.g., 604 -A), described further below with respect to FIG. 6 , for identifying an item among a plurality of items in an inventory data structure.
- condition report 200 and the exemplary communication network environment of FIG. 1 enable a plurality of sellers to maintain information about their inventories in a common location. For example, multiple sellers may utilize front-end information acquisition components 102 and/or end-user console portals 110 to each store an inventory of comprehensive condition reports 200 in database 106 such that the inventories are pooled together for access via end-user console portals 110 .
- the item overview component 204 is adapted for providing a visual summary of the item of interest.
- item overview component 204 is an image of a vehicle that is the item of interest.
- Item overview component 204 allows a user to visually recognize the item of interest, which may allow for easier or faster recognition or offer more information than item identifier 202 .
- item overview component 204 may comprise other content formats, such as a video, that provide a visual summary of the item of interest.
- item overview component 204 may display images and/or videos of specific portions of the item of interest, such as those depicted in alternate view image thumbnails 206 , described below.
- alternate view image thumbnails 206 shown in FIG. 2 are adapted for providing a means for users to access additional images and/or videos of the item of interest.
- alternate view image thumbnails 206 display additional images that depict the item of interest from various angles or depict certain articles that comprise the item of interest.
- alternate view image thumbnails 206 may depict a vehicle viewed from a side view, a forty-five degree angle view, and the like.
- Alternate view image thumbnails 206 may also depict a logo, a door handle, a scratch, a dent, and the like.
- a selected one of alternate view image thumbnails 206 is displayed in item overview component 204 .
- a selected one of alternate view image thumbnails 206 is displayed in a pop-up window on a GUI, such as alert 802 , described further below with respect to FIG. 8 .
- one or more of alternate view image thumbnails 206 may display a stock image in a grayscale format to indicate that a corresponding image of the item of interest is not available.
- the factual information component 208 is adapted for providing objective information about the item of interest.
- factual information component 208 provides a VIN, a make, a model, and an engine type of a vehicle in a text format. Additional objective and factual information may also be provided by factual information component 208 , such as a percentage of the vehicle that contains scratches or damage, scratch dimensions, hail damage information, stain information, and the like. Further, factual information component 208 may provide objective information in additional content formats, such as images and videos. Beneficially, objective information provided by factual information component 208 results in decreased network bandwidth usage
- the subjective information component 210 is adapted for providing subjective information about the item of interest.
- subjective information component 210 provides statements that are ambiguous or subject to interpretation, such as “minor damage” and “great buy,” for example.
- subjective information component 210 allows a seller to provide information about the item of interest that may influence a potential purchaser, while also allowing the potential purchaser to identify this information as being separate from objective information provided by factual information component 208 .
- the exchange component 212 is adapted for providing the ability to engage in a transaction involving the item of interest.
- the transaction may be a purchase, a sale, or an in-kind exchange of the item of interest.
- exchange component 212 may be utilized to purchase the item of interest about which comprehensive condition report 200 provides information by selecting a GUI button.
- FIG. 2 further illustrates the exterior interactive panoramic image 214 , which is adapted for depicting a 360-degree view of the exterior of the item of interest.
- exterior interactive panoramic image 214 displays a continuous image that is comprised of individual images that have been stitched together by computer-executable instructions executing on a processor in front-end information acquisition components 102 and/or server 104 .
- exterior interactive panoramic image 214 is capable of being manipulated by a user so as to view different parts of the image via scrolling, panning, and zooming.
- a human interface device e.g., a mouse
- exterior interactive panoramic image 214 provides a user with the ability to view information about the entire exterior of the item of interest in a visual format.
- exterior interactive panoramic image 214 provides a way for a user to view the damage in an objective manner.
- the interior interactive panoramic image 216 is adapted for depicting a 360-degree view of the interior of the item of interest.
- interior interactive panoramic image 216 depicts a continuous image that is comprised of individual images that have been stitched together by computer-executable instructions executing on a processor in front-end information acquisition components 102 and/or server 104 .
- a user may manipulate interior interactive panoramic image 216 by scrolling, panning, and zooming.
- interior interactive panoramic image 216 displays information about the entire interior of the item of interest in a visual format.
- interior interactive panoramic image 216 may provide a way to present a detail in an objective manner, instead of relying on a statement from a seller that a vehicle has “slight discoloration on the rear passenger-side seat.”
- the audio component 218 is adapted for providing information about the item of interest in an audio content format.
- the information provided by audio component 218 is objective, such as a sound recording of engine noise or brake squeaking of a vehicle, for example.
- the information provided by audio component 218 may be subjective, such as a sound recording of a seller's opinions or thoughts about the item of interest, for example.
- information provided in an audio format allows a user to acquire in-depth information about the item of interest, which contributes to user efficiency when viewing comprehensive condition report 200 on a GUI. Further, increased user efficiency leads to reduced network bandwidth usage in a communication network transmitting or receiving comprehensive condition report 200 , including audio component 218 .
- the video component 220 is adapted for providing a video presentation of the item of interest.
- video component 220 displays moving photographs (e.g., videos or movies) of the item of interest in response to a command provided by the user via a GUI.
- video component 220 provides a video presentation as one subset of comprehensive condition report 200 on a GUI.
- video component 220 may provide a video presentation in a pop-up window on a GUI, such as alert 802 , described further below with respect to FIG. 8 .
- a video presentation provided by video component 220 may include a salesperson or the like explaining features of the item of interest or a like video sselling the item of interest.
- the following exemplary computer-executable instructions provide buttons on a GUI for pulling a graphic and a video from server 104 and displaying a video presentation by video component 220 :
- the item history component 222 is adapted for providing historical information relating to the item of interest.
- item history component 222 provides information about a vehicle of interest, including, but not limited to, its manufacture, damage, repairs, ownership, and the like.
- item history component 222 may provide images of a vehicle of interest during and after its manufacture, before transportation to a certain location, and after it has arrived at the certain location. In this manner, item history component 222 provides a detailed account with objective information about the status or condition of the item of interest at discrete points in time.
- item history component 222 provides information about the deterioration of an item over time.
- the information provided by item history component 222 may be in various content formats, such as images, videos, text, audio, and the like.
- the delivery tracking component 224 is adapted for providing information about the transport or location of the item of interest.
- delivery tracking component 224 provides a user with information concerning the physical location of the item of interest at a current time and at times in the past. Further, delivery tracking component 224 may provide information about an expected future physical location of the item of interest.
- the information provided by delivery tracking component 224 may be in various content formats, such as images (e.g., maps), videos, text, audio, and the like.
- the sensory information component 226 is adapted for providing information that may be sensed by a user of comprehensive condition report 200 .
- Exemplary sensory information includes, but is not limited to, visual, auditory (e.g., hearing), somatic sensations (e.g., touch, tactile perception), and vestibular (e.g., balance, movement).
- sensory information component 226 provides a tactile perception of the material covering the seats inside a vehicle of interest via actuation of a touch-screen device on which comprehensive condition report 200 is displayed.
- sensory information component 226 provides a tactile perception that conveys the body style of a vehicle of interest when visual information provided by item overview component 204 , for example, is unavailable (e.g., technical failure or vision impairment of a user).
- the undercarriage component 228 is adapted for providing information about a portion of the item of interest that may not be provided by other components of comprehensive condition report 200 .
- undercarriage component 228 provides images of the undercarriage of a vehicle of interest such that objective information is available about the undercarriage of the vehicle.
- the damage component 230 is adapted for providing information about damage to the item of interest.
- damage component 230 provides information about hail damage to a vehicle of interest via images of the hail damaged vehicle.
- the information provided by damage component 230 may be in various content formats, such as images, videos, text, audio, and the like.
- Information provided by damage component 230 in the form of images or videos may depict damage to the item of interest as captured by techniques that use electromagnetic radiation other than visible light, such as X-rays and infrared, for example.
- information provided by damage component 230 may utilize a distance transform or a signed distance function, for example to create a three-dimensional model of the item of interest and its damage.
- such techniques may provide detailed objective information about the damage that may not be readily available via a visible light image alone.
- comprehensive condition report 200 results in a benefit of reduced network bandwidth usage. This embodiment results in reduced network bandwidth usage when the item of interest about which comprehensive condition report 200 provides information meets a particular need and additional comprehensive condition reports for additional items are not accessed from database 106 and/or server 104 . For example, finite communications network resources may then be utilized to carry out other tasks. Such an embodiment also reduces the usage of computing resources by server 104 while still providing users with desired information about a desired item or item of interest. Further, the increased user efficiency provided by comprehensive condition report 200 results in reduced usage of stored electrical energy in a battery powering a GUI of components in end-user console portals 110 , such as mobile phones and tablets. In another embodiment, comprehensive condition report 200 provides detailed objective information about an item of interest that allows consumers to realize advantageous aspects of both the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach and the virtual showroom approach.
- FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary vinyl addendum 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the vinyl addendum 300 includes the entirety of and/or certain portions or components of comprehensive condition report 200 .
- vinyl addendum 300 is an information sheet including a factual information component 308 , a subjective information component 310 , and exchange components 312 -A and 312 -B.
- Vinyl addendum 300 has dimensions of 8.25 inches horizontal by 11.25 inches vertical.
- the vinyl portion of vinyl addendum 300 is heavy-duty and allows for exterior use in all types of weather conditions. Beneficially, a suitable vinyl will greatly reduce, or completely eliminate, the likelihood of vinyl addendum 300 chipping or peeling.
- the factual information component 308 , the subjective information component 310 , the exchange components 312 -A and 312 -B, and/or additional articles are printed on vinyl addendum 300 with environmentally friendly, high-color, and vivid inks.
- Such colorfast printing lasts a minimum of one year, which eliminates showing, or giving an impression to the consumer, that the item of interest has been for sale for an extended length of time.
- the article of interest is provided with increased appeal to consumers, which results in a benefit to sellers, such as through increased profit in one exemplary embodiment.
- the factual information component 308 is adapted for providing objective information about the item of interest.
- factual information component 308 provides information such as VIN, make, model, manufacturer, accessories, and specifications of a vehicle of interest in a visual text format. Additional objective and factual information may also be provided by factual information component 308 , such as a percentage of the vehicle that contains scratches or damage, scratch dimensions, hail damage information, stain information, and the like. Further, factual information component 308 may provide objective information in additional visual content formats, such as images and the like.
- the subjective information component 310 is adapted for providing subjective information about the item of interest.
- subjective information component 310 provides the statement “GREAT DEAL!!” in a visual text format. It is contemplated that subjective information component 310 may provide statements that are ambiguous or subject to interpretation, such as “minor damage” and “you won't be disappointed,” for example.
- subjective information component 310 provides a seller with the ability to convey information about the item of interest that may influence a potential purchaser, while also allowing the potential purchaser to identify this information as being separate from objective information provided by factual information component 308 . Additionally, subjective information component 310 may provide subjective information in additional visual content formats, such as images and the like.
- the exchange components 312 are adapted for providing information that facilitates a transaction involving the item of interest.
- a transaction may be a purchase, a sale, or an in-kind exchange of the item of interest.
- exchange component 312 -A provides information in a visual text format about the terms of a transaction involving a vehicle of interest.
- Exchange component 312 -B of FIG. 3A provides a quick response (QR) code that may be scanned or imaged with a device, such as those associated with end-user console portals 110 .
- QR quick response
- exchange component 312 -B is scanned with a device of end-user console portal 110 to access inventory data structure 600 from database 106 and display a comprehensive condition report 200 , including exchange component 212 , in a GUI on a display of the device of end-user console portal 110 .
- an administrator may scan exchange component 312 -B with a device, such as those associated with administrator console portal 108 , to access inventory data structure 600 from database 106 .
- exchange component 312 -B is unique to the particular item of interest.
- FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary buyers guide printed on vinyl, generally indicated at 350 , in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the illustrated buyers guide is an information sheet measuring 8.25 inches horizontal and 11.25 inches vertical and listing warranty information for a vehicle as a federal mandate for consumer protection.
- the illustrated form notifies prospective consumers of the existence of a warranty or no warranty status of the vehicle to which the form is attached.
- the buyers guide may be a Monroney sticker.
- the vinyl on which the buyers guide is printed is heavy-duty and allows for exterior use in all types of weather conditions. Beneficially, a suitable vinyl will greatly reduce, or completely eliminate, the likelihood of the vinyl addendum chipping or peeling.
- the buyers guide may be printed on vinyl with environmentally friendly, high-color, and vivid inks.
- Such colorfast printing lasts a minimum of one year, which eliminates showing, or giving an impression to the consumer, that the item of interest has been for sale for an extended length of time.
- the article of interest is provided with increased appeal to consumers, which results in a benefit to sellers.
- exemplary vinyl addendum 300 and/or exemplary buyers guide 350 are affixed to the window of a vehicle corresponding to the addendum and the buyers guide.
- the vinyl on which the addendum and buyers guide are printed does not have its adherence to the window affected by movement of the window, such as when it is rolled down.
- the vinyl stays sharp, crisp, and as good as new, rather than becoming wrinkled or destroyed, such as via condensation.
- FIG. 4A illustrates a detailed criteria data structure 400 , for criterion identifiers and corresponding values that are associated with an item of interest, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- detailed criteria data structure 400 is adapted to provide data representing an item of interest in an objective manner.
- the detailed criteria data structure 400 comprises a first group of criterion identifier fields 402 , which include data that represents various criterion identifiers by which the item of interest may be identified or evaluated.
- the criterion identifier fields 402 may include data representing criterion identifiers that ascertain the item of interest, such as a VIN, make, model, and the like of a vehicle.
- criterion identifier fields 402 may include data representing evaluating criteria such as a percentage of an item of interest that is damaged and dimensions of damaged areas. It is to be understood by one skilled in the art that criterion identifier fields 402 may also include data representing evaluating criteria that are subjective, such as condition categories and opinions on the value of the item of interest.
- the detailed criteria data structure 400 also has a second group of criterion value fields 404 including data that represents values associated with a corresponding criterion identifier field 402 .
- the criterion identifier field 402 -C includes data representing a criterion identifier of “color” and corresponding criterion value field 404 -C includes data representing a value of “red.”
- detailed criteria data structure 400 is stored in database 106 on server 104 .
- criterion identifier fields 402 and criterion value fields 404 include data that is presented to a user via various components of comprehensive condition report 200 .
- detailed criteria data structure 400 provides a benefit of reduced network bandwidth usage. This benefit may be provided by detailed objective information of detailed criteria data structure 400 and allows finite communications network resources to be used to carry out other tasks. Additionally, detailed criteria data structure 400 may reduce the usage of computing resources of server 104 while still providing users with desired information about a desired item or item of interest. Moreover, increased user efficiency provided by detailed criteria data structure 400 results in reduced usage of stored electrical energy in a battery powering a display device in end-user console portals 110 on which data from detailed criteria data structure 400 is displayed. In another embodiment, detailed objective information provided by detailed criteria data structure 400 about an item of interest allows consumers to realize advantages of both the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach and the virtual showroom approach.
- FIG. 4B illustrates a detailed criteria component 410 , which is adapted for determining values that are represented by data included in criterion identifier fields 402 and criterion value fields 404 .
- the detailed criteria component 410 is presented in tangible form as a computer-executable module on server 104 .
- detailed criteria component 410 may also be implemented as a digital or analog electronic circuit.
- Detailed criteria component 410 comprises sub-components, including a criterion identifier component 412 , a criterion value component 414 , a value determination component 416 , and a memory 418 .
- a network interface 420 of server 104 is also included in this embodiment.
- the network interface 420 is communicatively connected to front-end information acquisition components 102 and database 106 via communications networks, such as the Internet.
- the network interface 420 is also communicatively connected to the memory 418 , the criterion identifier component 412 , the criterion value component 414 , and the value determination component 416 .
- network interface 420 is also communicatively connected to detailed criteria component 410 .
- These communicative connections between network interface 420 and other components included within server 104 may be accomplished via electrical interconnects.
- Memory 418 is also electrically connected to criterion identifier component 412 , criterion value component 414 , and value determination component 416 . Further, criterion identifier component 412 , criterion value component 414 , and value determination component 416 are each electrically connected to one another.
- the network interface 420 is adapted for facilitating data communication between front-end information acquisition components 102 , database 106 , and detailed criteria component 410 and its various sub-components.
- Memory 418 is adapted for storing data utilized and/or generated by criterion identifier component 412 , criterion value component 414 , and value determination component 416 .
- Criterion identifier component 412 is adapted for providing data representing a current criterion identifier, such as criterion identifier field 402 -F that corresponds to a largest scratch length value of a scratch on a vehicle of interest.
- Value determination component 416 is adapted for determining a value corresponding to the current criterion identifier provided by criterion identifier component 412 .
- value determination component 416 utilizes data provided by criterion identifier component 412 and an image obtained from front-end information acquisition components 102 via network interface 420 to determine the value corresponding to the current criterion identifier provided by criterion identifier component 412 .
- Criterion value component 414 is adapted for providing data representing the determined current criterion value.
- criterion value component 414 provides data representing the value in criterion value field 404 -F that corresponds to a value of “6” for the largest scratch length value of a scratch on the vehicle of interest.
- the data provided by criterion value component 414 may be received from value determination component 416 .
- the data provided by criterion value component 414 may also be received from front-end information acquisition components 102 via either network interface 420 or memory 418 .
- detailed criteria component 410 provides advantages including increased user efficiency, reduced network bandwidth usage, and reduced computing resource utilization due to detailed information provided by detailed criteria component 410 .
- a flow chart illustrates a method of determining values that are represented by data included in criterion value fields 404 .
- the method includes an image acquisition step 450 , a feature detection step 452 , an image segmentation step 454 , a feature extraction step 456 , a feature identification and classification step 458 , a feature measurement step 460 , a feature dimension output step 462 , an area determination step 464 , a feature percentage step 466 , and a feature percentage output step 468 .
- the method steps are embodied in computer-executable instructions executing on server 104 .
- the method steps may also be implemented by digital or analog electronic circuitry.
- an image is obtained at image acquisition step 450 and stored in a computer-readable format.
- an image is acquired with front-end information acquisition components 102 and transmitted to server 104 .
- feature detection step 452 is performed.
- feature detection step 452 comprises examining each pixel of the acquired image to determine whether a feature is present at a given pixel.
- Exemplary image features include, but are not limited to, edges, corners (e.g., interest points), regions of interest (e.g., blobs), and ridges.
- Feature detection step 452 may utilize feature detection methods such as Canny, smallest univalue segment assimilating nucleus (SUSAN), and features from accelerated segment test (FAST) embodied as computer-executable instructions, for example.
- image segmentation step 454 is performed.
- the obtained image is transformed by a partitioning into multiple sets of pixels in order to locate objects and boundaries (e.g., lines, curves) in the obtained image.
- objects and boundaries e.g., lines, curves
- image segmentation step 454 may be used to change the representation of the obtained imaged into a format that is more meaningful or easier to analyze, image segmentation step 454 may be omitted and the method may proceed from feature detection step 452 directly to feature extraction step 456 .
- the feature extraction step 456 transforms the obtained image into a set of features, such that the set contains relevant information from the obtained image.
- feature extraction step 456 may transform an obtained image of a vehicle of interest into a set of scratches on the vehicle.
- feature extraction step 456 transforms the obtained image into a set of features with minimal resources of server 104 and memory 418 .
- feature extraction step 456 comprises general dimensionality reduction techniques, such as principal component analysis and latent semantic analysis, for example.
- feature extraction step 456 utilizes a set of application-dependent features.
- feature identification and classification step 458 in which one feature from the set of features is identified and classified as being of a certain type.
- feature identification and classification step 458 selects one feature from the set of features produced by feature extraction step 456 and associates a unique identifier with that feature. The unique identifier given to the selected feature allows that feature to be tracked among more than one image and to be distinguished among other features.
- feature identification and classification step 458 associates a selected feature with a type of features.
- a feature that corresponds to a scratch on a vehicle of interest may be classified as type “scratch.”
- the classification allows multiple features of the same type to be associated with each other for categorization.
- feature identification and classification step 458 utilizes data provided by criterion identifier component 412 to provide the classification of the feature.
- the dimensions of the identified feature are determined by feature measurement step 460 .
- feature measurement step 460 determines the dimensions of the identified feature in terms of pixels.
- feature measurement step 460 utilizes a predetermined value that is a function of the distance of the imaging device from the imaged object in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units (e.g., inches, centimeters, etc.).
- feature measurement step 460 utilizes a known real-world dimension of an object in the same image as the identified feature in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units.
- the determined dimensions of the identified feature are feature dimensions 462 .
- feature dimensions 462 are provided to criterion value component 416 .
- the embodiment of FIG. 4C further determines the total area of a region of interest, which includes the identified feature, at area determination step 464 .
- area determination step 464 determines the area of the region of interest in the unit of pixels.
- area determination step 464 utilizes a predetermined value that is a function of the distance of the imaging device from the imaged object in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units (e.g., inches, centimeters, etc.).
- area determination step 464 utilizes a known real-world dimension of an object in the same image as the identified feature in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units.
- the feature percentage step 466 determines the ratio of the identified feature to the area of the region of interest.
- feature percentage step 466 determines the area of an item of interest that is scratched and divides that value by the total area of the item of interest to calculate the ratio of the item of interest that is scratched.
- the determined ratio of the identified feature to the area of the region of interest is feature percentage 468 .
- feature percentage 468 is provided to criterion value component 416 .
- FIG. 5A illustrates a desired criteria data structure 500 for criteria and corresponding values that are associated with a desired item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- the desired criteria data structure 500 has a first group of desired criterion identifier fields 502 comprising data that represents criterion identifiers by which the desired item of interest may be identified or evaluated.
- desired criterion identifier fields 502 include data representing identifying criteria such as a make, model, color, and the like of a vehicle.
- desired criterion identifier fields 502 may include data representing evaluating criteria such as a desired percentage level of damage to an item of interest and acceptable dimensions of damaged areas.
- desired criterion identifier fields 502 may also include data representing evaluating criteria that are subjective, such as acceptable condition categories (e.g., mint, average, fine, poor) and desired opinions on the value of the item of interest (e.g., CONSUMERS DIGEST BEST BUYTM).
- acceptable condition categories e.g., mint, average, fine, poor
- desired opinions on the value of the item of interest e.g., CONSUMERS DIGEST BEST BUYTM.
- desired criteria data structure 500 also includes a second group of desired criterion value fields 504 , each including data that represents values associated with a corresponding desired criterion identifier field 502 .
- desired criterion identifier field 502 -G includes data representing a criterion of a maximum scratch width, in inches, acceptable to a user and corresponding desired criterion value field 504 -G includes data representing a value of “0.25.” Desired criterion value fields 504 may also contain data representing acceptable values expressed in other ways.
- “less than” and “greater than” values such as “less than 15” of desired criterion value field 504 -H, the “any” of desired criterion value field 504 -A indicating that a user does not have a preference for the corresponding criterion 502 -A, and the range “0-5” of desired criterion value field 504 -E.
- desired criteria data structure 500 functions as a wish list or favorites list of desired or acceptable criteria and corresponding values for a desired item of interest.
- desired criteria data structure 500 is stored in database 106 on server 104 .
- desired criterion identifier fields 502 and desired criterion value fields 504 include data that are presented to a user via various components of comprehensive condition report 200 .
- desired criteria data structure 500 provides a benefit of reduced network bandwidth usage. This benefit may be provided by desired criterion values provided by desired criteria data structure 500 and allows finite communications network resources to be used to carry out other tasks. Further, desired criteria data structure 500 may reduce the usage of computing resources on server 104 while still providing users with the ability to locate a desired item or item of interest. Additionally, increased user efficiency provided by desired criteria data structure 500 results in reduced usage of stored electrical energy in a battery powering a display device in end-user console portals 110 . In another embodiment, desired criteria data structure 500 allows consumers to realize advantages of both the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach and the virtual showroom approach.
- FIG. 5B illustrates a desired criteria component 510 that, in one embodiment, is adapted for determining when an actual criterion value matches a desired criterion value.
- desired criteria component 510 is adapted for determining when an amount of matched criterion values satisfies an acceptable threshold level.
- the desired criteria component 510 includes a desired criterion identifier component 512 , a desired criterion value component 514 , an actual criterion value component 516 , a match component 518 , a threshold component 520 , and a memory 522 .
- desired criteria component 510 is included within server 104 , in addition to a network interface 524 .
- the network interface 524 is communicatively connected to front-end information acquisition components 102 and database 106 via communications networks, such as the Internet.
- Network interface 524 is also communicatively connected to the desired criterion identifier component 512 , the desired criterion value component 514 , the actual criterion value component 516 , the match component 518 , the threshold component 520 , and the memory 522 .
- network interface 524 can be said to also be communicatively connected to desired criteria component 510 .
- Memory 522 is electrically connected to desired criterion identifier component 512 , desired criterion value component 514 , actual criterion value component 516 , match component 518 , and threshold component 520 .
- Desired criterion identifier component 512 is electrically connected to desired criterion value component 514 , actual criterion value component 516 , and match component 518 .
- Desired criterion value component 514 and actual criterion value component 516 are each electrically connected to match component 518 .
- threshold component 520 is electrically connected to match component 518 .
- the network interface 524 is adapted for facilitating data communication between front-end information acquisition components 102 , database 106 , and desired criteria component 510 and its sub-components.
- Memory 522 is adapted for storing data utilized and/or generated by desired criterion identifier component 512 , desired criterion value component 514 , actual criterion value component 516 , match component 518 , and threshold component 520 .
- memory 522 is a memory component on server 104 that may be utilized by additional components of server 104 .
- memory 522 is a memory component utilized solely by desired criteria component 510 .
- Desired criterion identifier component 512 is adapted for providing data representing a current desired criterion identifier, such as desired criterion identifier field 502 -H corresponding to a maximum desired percentage of hail damage to a desired vehicle.
- desired criterion identifier component 512 receives the current desired criterion identifier from database 106 via network interface 524 .
- desired criterion identifier component 512 receives the current desired criterion identifier from memory 522 .
- Desired criterion value component 514 of FIG. 5B is adapted for providing data representing a desired criterion value corresponding to the current desired criterion identifier provided by desired criterion identifier component 512 .
- desired criterion value component 514 provides data representing desired criterion value field 504 -H, which corresponds to a value of the maximum desired percentage of hail damage to the desired vehicle.
- Actual criterion value component 516 is adapted for providing data representing an actual criterion value corresponding to the current desired criterion identifier provided by desired criterion identifier component 512 .
- actual criterion value component 516 provides data representing criterion value field 404 -H, which corresponds to a value of the percentage of hail damage to a vehicle of interest.
- match component 518 is adapted for determining when the actual criterion value provided by actual criterion value component 516 satisfies the desired criterion value provided by desired criterion value component 514 .
- the data provided by desired criterion identifier component 512 , desired criterion value component 514 , and actual criterion value component 516 are received by match component 518 .
- Match component 518 then compares the actual criterion value and the desired criterion value, as further described below with respect to FIG. 5C .
- match component 518 provides the desired criterion identifier and a match indicator to memory 522 , threshold component 520 , and/or network interface 524 .
- match component 518 provides the desired criterion identifier and a no-match indicator to memory 522 , threshold component 520 , and/or network interface 524 .
- Threshold component 520 is adapted for determining when a number of match indicators provided by match component 518 and/or memory 522 satisfies a threshold value provided by memory 522 and/or network interface 524 .
- data provided by match component 518 is received by threshold component 520 .
- data stored in memory 522 is retrieved by threshold component 520 .
- Threshold component 520 compares a percent of match indicators to a threshold value, as further described below with respect to FIG. 5D .
- a threshold value is provided by an end-user console portal 110 and stored in database 106 or memory 522 .
- the threshold value indicates an amount of deviation from a desired item that will be considered acceptable.
- desired criteria data structure 500 may represent criterion values of a desired vehicle, such that satisfaction of every criterion value by a vehicle of interest would be deemed a complete match.
- a deviation from a complete match such as a vehicle of interest that satisfies ninety percent of the criterion values, may be acceptable for a particular need. In this instance, the vehicle of interest will be deemed a matching vehicle although it is not a complete match.
- threshold component 520 provides a match indication.
- the match indication may be provided by threshold component 520 to memory 522 , database 106 via network interface 524 , and/or end-user console portals 110 via network interface 524 .
- threshold component 520 does not provide a match indication.
- desired criteria component 510 provides advantages including increased user efficiency, reduced network bandwidth usage, and reduced computing resource utilization due to data provided by match component 518 and/or threshold component 520 .
- a flow chart illustrates a method of determining a match between a desired criterion value and an actual criterion value.
- the illustrated method is embodied in computer-executable instructions stored on server 104 and executed by match component 518 .
- the method includes a read criterion identifier step 530 , a read actual criterion value step 532 , a read desired criterion value step 534 , a determination step 536 , a store match indicator step 538 , and a store no-match indicator step 540 .
- match component 518 receives the data representing the desired criterion identifier provided by desired criterion identifier component 512 .
- match component 518 receives the data representing an actual criterion value is accessed or received.
- match component 518 receives the data representing the actual criterion value provided by actual criterion value component 516 .
- the read desired criterion value step 534 results in data representing a desired criterion value being accessed or received.
- match component 518 receives the data representing the desired criterion value provided by desired criterion value component 514 .
- match component 518 may compare an actual value of “10” (e.g., the percentage of hail damage to a vehicle of interest in criterion value field 404 -H) to a desired value of “less than 15” (e.g., the maximum desired percentage of hail damage to a desired vehicle in desired criterion value field 504 -H).
- the actual value “10” satisfies the desired value of “less than 15,” and thus the vehicle of interest matches the desired vehicle with respect to the maximum percentage of hail damage criterion identifier.
- step 538 Such a satisfaction of the desired criterion value results in the method proceeding to step 538 , in which the criterion identifier and a match indicator are stored in memory 522 and/or database 106 .
- the match indicator specifies that the desired criterion value has been satisfied by the actual criterion value for the corresponding criterion identifier.
- step 536 determines that the actual criterion value does not satisfy the desired criterion value
- the method proceeds to step 540 .
- the criterion identifier and a no-match indicator are stored in memory 522 and/or database 106 .
- the no-match indicator specifies that the actual criterion value has failed to satisfy the desired criterion value for the corresponding criterion identifier.
- a flow chart illustrates a method of determining when an item of interest falls with a desired match threshold value.
- the threshold value indicates an amount of deviation from a desired item that will be considered acceptable.
- the method of FIG. 5D is embodied in computer-executable instructions stored on server 104 and executed by threshold component 520 .
- the method includes a match indicator amount step 550 , a total combined amount step 552 , a percent determination step 554 , a threshold value step 556 , a satisfaction determination step 558 , a match indication step 560 , and an end process step 562 .
- threshold component 520 accesses match indicators stored in memory 522 and determines a total number of match indicators associated with an item of interest.
- threshold component 520 may access the match indicators and no-match indicators stored in memory 522 and then add the amount of each together.
- a threshold value is accessed by threshold component 520 . In one embodiment, threshold component 520 accesses the threshold value from memory 522 . Threshold component 520 may also access the threshold value from database 106 or receive the threshold value end-user console portals 110 via network interface 524 .
- a satisfaction determination step 558 ascertains whether the percentage determined at percent determination step 554 satisfies the threshold value from threshold value step 556 .
- a percentage of 95 percent may be determined during percent determination step 554 and a threshold value of 90 percent may be accessed at threshold value step 556 .
- the item of interest deviates from a desired item by 5 percent (e.g., the difference between 100 and 95) and the amount of deviation from the desired item that is acceptable is 10 percent (e.g., the difference between 100 and 90).
- the percentage of 95 percent satisfies the threshold value of 90 percent.
- Such a satisfaction of the threshold value results in the method proceeding to step 560 , in which a match indication is provided.
- a match indication is provided as alert 802 on a GUI of a device of end-user console portals 110 .
- a match indication may also be an e-mail, a text message, or the like.
- the match indication is provided to database 106 via network interface 524 .
- the event satisfaction determination step 558 ascertains that the percentage does not satisfy the threshold value, the method proceeds to step 562 where the process ends.
- FIG. 6 illustrates an inventory data structure 600 for a plurality of items of interest according to an embodiment of the invention.
- the inventory data structure 600 includes inventory records 602 -A, 602 -B, and 602 -N, each of which correspond to a particular item of interest and contain associated identification fields 604 , condition report fields 606 , detailed criteria information fields 608 , and additional fields 610 .
- the inventory record 602 -A corresponds to a first vehicle of interest
- the inventory record 602 -B corresponds to a second vehicle of interest
- the inventory record 602 -N corresponds to a third vehicle of interest.
- inventory record 602 -A, inventory record 602 -B, and inventory record 602 -N comprise an inventory of vehicles available for display via a virtual showroom.
- inventory record 602 -A may comprise an inventory of a first seller
- inventory record 602 -B may comprise an inventory of a second seller
- inventory record 602 -N may comprise an inventory of a third seller.
- inventory data structure 600 is adapted for providing a common inventory containing items from multiple sellers.
- inventory data structure 600 is stored in database 106 on server 104 .
- inventory records 602 include data that is presented via various components of comprehensive condition report 200 and/or virtual showroom 700 ( FIG. 7 ).
- the identification fields 604 are adapted for identifying inventory records 602 among each other.
- identification field 604 -A contains data representing a value of “1”
- identification field 604 -B contains data representing a value of “2” such that inventory record 602 -A and inventory record 602 -B are identified separately from each other.
- each identification field 604 contains data representing a VIN number of a vehicle to which each inventory record 602 corresponds.
- the condition report fields 606 are adapted for storing data that comprise comprehensive condition report 200 .
- the detailed criteria information fields 608 are adapted for storing data that comprise detailed criteria data structure 400 .
- the additional fields 610 are adapted for storing further data corresponding to inventory records 602 .
- additional field 610 -A stores data that comprises desired criteria data structure 500 .
- additional field 610 -A stores data identifying a seller or dealer who is holding the item of interest corresponding to inventory record 602 -A open for an exchange.
- FIG. 7 illustrates a graphical user interface virtual showroom, generally indicated at 700 , for displaying an inventory of items in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the virtual showroom 700 is comprised of a website template and includes user controls 702 , inventory area 704 , and inventory items 706 -A, 706 -B, and 706 -C.
- the virtual showroom 700 is used with a website template stored on server 104 or an external server for managing or sselling the item inventory.
- the virtual showroom 700 is comprised of the templates, images, and corresponding information and is accessible via the Internet.
- the website template permits a developer to easily build a website from the hosted content to showcase goods or real estate.
- aspects of the invention integrate with database 105 to dynamically populate customer and item data for sselling item data that has been processed by server 104 .
- virtual showroom 700 may showcase item data contained in inventory data structure 600 .
- the populated template consists of a homepage, a showroom page containing an entry (e.g., inventory items 706 ) for each item, and a detailed item page for each item (e.g., comprehensive condition report 200 ). It is contemplated that virtual showroom 700 may be accessed via the end-user console portals 110 from any computing device, including but not limited to personal computers, mobile devices, and tablet computing devices.
- the user controls 702 -A, 702 -B, and 702 -C are adapted for capturing criterion values of various criterion identifiers for a desired item.
- the captured criterion values may be stored in desired criterion value fields 504 of desired criteria data structure 500 .
- user controls 702 -A, 702 -B, and 702 -C are adapted for capturing values that specify which items corresponding to select inventory records 602 of inventory data structure 600 will be displayed in inventory area 704 .
- User controls 702 may be checkboxes, sliders, text inputs, or the like on a graphical user interface of a device of end-user console portals 110 .
- the inventory area 704 is adapted for displaying the inventory items 706 .
- inventory item 706 -A may correspond to inventory record 602 -A of inventory data structure 600 .
- inventory area 704 may be adapted for displaying comprehensive condition report 200 or a portion thereof.
- inventory item 706 -A may display a portion of condition report field 606 -A of inventory data structure 600 , which stores data that comprise comprehensive condition report 200 for an item corresponding to inventory record 602 -A.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary graphical user interface pop-up notification alert 802 .
- the alert 802 includes a match overview component 804 , a match factual information component 806 , and user controls 808 .
- Alert 802 is adapted for notifying a user that an item of interest satisfies the threshold value for a desired item.
- alert 802 is a pop-up notification on a GUI.
- Exemplary pop-up notifications include toastings, passive pop-ups, desktop notifications, notification bubbles, rustings, balloon notifications, and the like. It is also contemplated that alert 802 may be a text message, email, auditory alert, vibrating device alert, and the like.
- match overview component 804 is adapted for providing a visual summary of the item of interest.
- match overview component 804 is an image of a vehicle that is the item of interest.
- Match overview component 804 allows a user to visually recognize the item of interest.
- match overview component 804 may comprise other content formats that provide a visual summary of the item of interest, such as text and video.
- match overview component 804 may correspond to item overview component 204 of comprehensive condition report 200 .
- match factual information component 806 is adapted for providing objective information about the item of interest.
- match factual information component 806 may provide a VIN, a make, a model, and an engine type of a vehicle of interest in a text format. Additional objective and factual information may also be provided by match factual information component 806 , such as a percentage of a vehicle of interest that contains scratches or damage, scratch dimensions, hail damage information, stain information, and the like. Further, match factual information component 806 may provide objective information in additional content formats, such as images and videos. In another embodiment, match factual information component 806 may correspond to factual information component 208 of comprehensive condition report 200 .
- the user controls 808 are adapted for receiving commands corresponding to alert 802 .
- a user control 808 may include a “view” button that, when pressed, provides for the display of comprehensive condition report 200 corresponding to the item of interest.
- a user control 808 may include a button that is adapted for providing the ability to engage in a transaction involving the item of interest. Exemplary transactions include purchases, sales, and in-kind exchanges of the item of interest. Further, a user control 808 may dismiss alert 802 .
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- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation (AREA)
- Game Theory and Decision Science (AREA)
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Abstract
Description
- This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/575,260 filed Dec. 18, 2014, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/918,492 filed Dec. 19, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/920,576 filed Dec. 24, 2013, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/012,033 filed Feb. 1, 2016, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,638 filed Dec. 18, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939 filed Nov. 25, 2013, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/792,258 filed Mar. 15, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/732,078 filed Nov. 30, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
- Items, such as goods and real estate, are usually held open for inspection or sale in one of two ways. The first, a traditional approach, includes holding an inventory of the items at a physical location. This approach involves visiting a dealer or merchant's place of business, listening to a salesperson's pitch, viewing or testing selected goods, and then haggling over price. Similarly, consumers purchase real estate by the traditional approach by visiting and touring the real estate and then haggling over price. This approach advantageously provides consumers an opportunity to view the particular product or real estate in-person and receive hands-on demonstrations of features and options or the ability to view it in its entirety. However, this approach is time-consuming and interacting with a salesperson can be intimidating for many consumers.
- The second approach involves a “virtual showroom” in which items are held in an inventory where consumers can research and price goods, real estate, and the like on the Internet. This approach advantageously allows consumers to search for items for sale, such as goods or real estate, in less time and with less salesperson interaction than the traditional approach. Unfortunately, when visiting a virtual showroom, consumers are often limited to stock photographs and generic information and must forego the more traditional “walk around” experience. Consequently, even if actual photographs and/or videos of a particular product, real estate, or the like are available, they are often limited in scope and cannot adequately convey how a product or real estate appears in-person and its actual condition. For example, the information available is often non-specific and relates generally to a make and model rather than specifically to the particular item. In other words, consumers sacrifice advantageous aspects of the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach in order to enjoy the convenience and other advantages of the virtual showroom approach.
- Moreover, many virtual showroom sellers often employ a “no haggle” pricing model. As a result, it becomes important for virtual sellers to make a high volume of sales. A virtual showroom seller attempting to make a high volume of sales must quickly acquire information about goods or real estate in its inventory, including photographs, videos, and/or other information indicative of the condition of the goods or real estate, and make that information available to consumers on the Internet. Conventional systems and methods are unable to acquire photographs and/or videos of goods or real estate and post them on the Internet with the necessary throughput to keep up with the quick turnaround of high-volume sales.
- In addition, the limited scope of information available about items in a virtual showroom leads to increased bandwidth usage in communications networks, such as the Internet, increased processing load in devices hosting the virtual showroom, and decreased power availability in batteries powering devices on which the virtual showroom is displayed. For example, the limited scope of information provides fewer categories with which to distinguish among item entries in the virtual showroom. Accordingly, more entries will satisfy a consumer's desired criteria, which lead to more entries being accessed and displayed.
- In accordance with aspects of the invention, a computerized exchange network makes available on the Internet collected images and/or videos of items under inspection, such as goods, real estate, or the like. An aspect of this end-to-end solution captures images and other information of an item under inspection, processes and stores the images and information, and adds the item to a virtual showroom or other virtual inspection site that presents an inventory of such goods, real estate, or the like. This aspect of the solution provides users with extensive information about the particular items under inspection. For example, users, such as consumers, can inspect goods or real estate fixtures available in the inventory along with the traditional benefits of a virtual showroom. Further, this aspect of the solution provides sellers with a user-friendly and quick (e.g., 7 minutes or less per good or fixture) way of acquiring images and information of a particular good or real estate fixture and creating a virtual showroom to display it. This aspect makes high-volume “no-haggle” sales tactics economical to employ among a network of sellers. Further, this aspect reduces network bandwidth usage in communications networks and reduces utilization of computing resources in computing devices storing acquired images and information.
- In an aspect, a system for rendering a virtual showroom comprises a front-end information acquisition device for acquiring one or more images of an item of interest. The system further comprises a database for storing data representing the acquired images, a detailed criteria data structure that includes data representing objective information about the item of interest, and a desired criteria data structure that includes data representing objective information about a desired item.
- In another aspect, a system for determining a criterion value associated with a criterion identifier for an item of interest is provided. The system includes a memory storage component for providing data representing an image of an item of interest, in which the item of interest has an attribute defined by the criterion identifier and the associated criterion value. In addition, a criterion identifier component for providing the criterion identifier, a value determination component for ascertaining the corresponding criterion value of the criterion identifier from the data representing the image of the item of interest, and a criterion value component for providing the ascertained criterion value are provided.
- In yet another aspect, a system is provided for determining satisfaction of an actual criterion value of an item of interest that includes a criterion identifier component for providing a criterion identifier associated with both the actual criterion value and a desired criterion value for a desired item. Further included is a desired criterion value component for providing data representing the desired criterion value, an actual criterion value component for providing data representing the actual criterion value, and a match component. In the system, the match component is configured to perform a comparison of the data representing the desired criterion value and the data representing the actual criterion value.
- Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.
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FIG. 1 is a diagram of a communication network environment in which aspects of the invention may be implemented. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a comprehensive condition report in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3A is an exemplary addendum printed on vinyl in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3B is an exemplary buyers guide printed on vinyl in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating a data structure for criterion identifiers and associated criterion values for an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4B illustrates a component for determining criterion values associated with criterion identifiers for an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 4C is a flow chart illustrating a method of determining criterion values associated with criterion identifiers for an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating a data structure for criterion identifiers and associated criterion values for a desired item according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5B illustrates a component for determining when a criterion value for a desired item satisfies a criterion value of an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5C is a flow chart illustrating a method of determining when a criterion value for a desired item satisfies a criterion value of an item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5D is a flow chart illustrating a method of determining when an amount of matched criterion values satisfies a threshold value according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a data structure for a plurality of items of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary user interface inventory display in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary user interface alert in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. - Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.
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FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary communication network environment for implementing aspects of the present invention. In accordance with aspects of the present invention, collected images and/or videos of objects or scenes are inventoried and made available via the Internet in a virtual showroom, for example. - In an embodiment, the exemplary communication network includes front-end information acquisition components 102-A, 102-B, and 102-N, a
server 104, adatabase 106, anadministrator console portal 108, and end-user console portals 110-A, 110-B, and 110-N. The front-endinformation acquisition components 102 are each communicatively connected to theserver 104. As shown inFIG. 1 ,server 104 is communicatively connected to thedatabase 106, which is communicatively connected to theadministrator console portal 108 and the end-user console portals 110. Exemplary communicative connections include a telecommunications network utilizing the Internet Protocol communications protocol, such as the Internet, or a communications channel employing serial and/or parallel communications methods. In an embodiment, aspects of the exemplary communication network can be operated remotely and permit complete integration from end-to-end, ensuring a centralized data repository that is scalable for future growth. - The components of the exemplary communication network provide an end-to-end solution in which images and other information of a particular object are acquired, processed, stored, and used to create an entry for the object in a virtual showroom 700 (
FIG. 7 ), all with minimal human effort and in a short enough period of time to make a high volume of image and information acquisitions economically feasible. In an aspect, the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1 provides simplicity and portability and employs software that can be utilized across multiple sites and platforms and is easy to use, install, and support. Contemplated objects include, by way of example and not limitation, automobiles, boats, watercraft, recreational vehicles, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, trailers, aircraft, vessel interiors, real estate and associated structures and fixtures, and the like. Beneficially, improvements are provided in the fields of automated object imaging, online marketplaces, and transportation maintenance and safety by providing a means to collect and inventory images and other information in a small amount of time and with little or no human involvement. Further advantages include increased user efficiency, reduced network bandwidth usage, and reduced computing resource utilization due to the decrease in the amount of time required to locate a particular item of interest. - According to aspects of the invention, front-end
information acquisition components 102 are adapted for acquiring images of an object of interest. As used herein, images include still photographs (e.g., snap shots), moving photographs (e.g., videos or movies), panoramics, stereoscopic photographs, infrared images, or any combination thereof. In addition to acquiring images of an entire object, images of only a portion of an object may be acquired. For example, front-endinformation acquisition components 102 are configured for taking images of identifying information or any areas of the object that are particularly noteworthy, such as damaged areas, areas most likely to be damaged, identification numbers, and the like. It is also contemplated that a salesperson can provide a video demonstration of the object's features and options to be integrated into a comprehensive condition report (FIG. 2 ) or a virtual showroom or inventory (FIGS. 6 and 7 ). Exemplary front-endinformation acquisition components 102 include those described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,638, incorporated herein by reference above. - The
server 104 ofFIG. 1 hosts (e.g., stores and/or distributes) acquired images and information for use by consumers or sellers via the Internet.Server 104 receives acquired images from front-endinformation acquisition components 102 and stores them on computer-readable media. In an embodiment,server 104 inventories, compresses, stitches, or otherwise processes the received images in addition to, or in the absence of, such actions by front-endinformation acquisition components 102. Further embodiments ofserver 104 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated herein by reference above. - Referring further to
FIG. 1 ,database 106 is associated withserver 104 for organizing stored images and content.Database 106 may reside onserver 104 or on an external computing device that is connected toserver 104 via a communications channel.Database 106 stores the acquired images along with metadata or other corresponding information relating to the images and/or the objects themselves. For example,database 106 may store information corresponding to imaged vehicles including, by way of example and not limitation, vehicle stock number, VIN number, vehicle color, vehicle make, vehicle model, vehicle type, objective vehicle condition information, and the like. In one embodiment, the information contained indatabase 106 is used with a website template stored onserver 104 or an external server for showcasing the objects to consumers via a virtual showroom. In an aspect,database 106 provides a common location for multiple sellers to make their inventories mutually available.Database 106 is capable of using various standards, such as SQL, ODBC, and JDBC, for example. Exemplary database management systems (DBMS) include MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, and SAP.Database 106 and the information it contains is accessible via the Internet, such as through the use of a web browser or an API. Further embodiments ofdatabase 106 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated herein by reference above. - As shown in
FIG. 1 ,administrator console portal 108 provides a means for managing information stored indatabase 106 and/or onserver 104. In one embodiment, the information contained indatabase 106 is used withadministrator console portal 108 stored onserver 104 or an external server for managing an inventory of objects or acquired images to be displayed on in a virtual showroom. Such an inventory management application advantageously allows for easily tracking the progress of an object among the various stages of image acquisition by front-endinformation acquisition components 102, image processing byserver 104, and inventory creation byserver 104 and/ordatabase 106, for example. In one embodiment, a seller can execute anadministrator console portal 108 application remotely (e.g., via a web application) to provide an automated ticketing process for tracking object progress.Administrator console portal 108 also provides metrics and reporting data and tracks objects, customers, and process information, in one embodiment. In additional embodiments,administrator console portal 108 provides access to detailed logs and reporting to troubleshoot object-processing errors. The metadata and other corresponding information relating to the images and/or the objects permit a determination to be made about the location of image and video files. Further embodiments ofadministrator console portal 108 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated by reference above. - The end-
user console portals 110 shown inFIG. 1 provide a means for users, such as consumers or sellers, to access the acquired images, content, and information stored indatabase 106. In one embodiment, end-user console portals 110 are computing devices, such as a personal computer, a mobile device, a tablet computing device, and the like. In another embodiment, end-user console portals 110 include printing devices for vinyl addenda, as further described below and in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/920,576, incorporated herein by reference above. Further embodiments of end-user console portals 110 are disclosed herein and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/088,939, incorporated herein by reference above. It is to be understood that the users of end-user console portals 110 need not be purchasers of goods or real estate. Instead, such users may include inspectors, inventory/property managers, maintenance personnel, etc. Further, a user may be non-human, such as a system or apparatus that controls a technological process. It is also contemplated that in an embodiment, access by end-user console portal 110 todatabase 106 and/orserver 104 is dependent upon the payment of a fee. In an additional embodiment, access of end-user console portals 110 todatabase 106 and/orserver 104 depend upon successful authentication of end-user console portals 110, such as through the use of a password. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a comprehensive condition report, generally indicated at 200, embodying aspects of the present invention. In accordance with aspects of the present invention, thecomprehensive condition report 200 provides detailed information about an item of interest and/or articles that comprise an item of interest. In one embodiment,comprehensive condition report 200 includes information acquired by front-endinformation acquisition components 102 and is adapted for displaying on a graphical user interface (GUI) of devices that comprise end-user console portals 110 and/oradministrator console portal 108. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 2 ,comprehensive condition report 200 includes anitem identifier 202, anitem overview component 204, alternateview image thumbnails 206, afactual information component 208, asubjective information component 210, anexchange component 212, an exterior interactivepanoramic image 214, an interior interactivepanoramic image 216, anaudio component 218, avideo component 220, anitem history component 222, adelivery tracking component 224, asensory information component 226, anundercarriage component 228, and adamage component 230. In one embodiment,comprehensive condition report 200 contains components and/or information conveyed via multiple content formats. For example, information may be conveyed via audio, visual, text, and like formats. It is to be understood thatcomprehensive condition report 200 includes any combination of components without deviating from the scope of the invention. - The
item identifier 202 is adapted for associatingcomprehensive condition report 200 with a particular item of interest about whichcomprehensive condition report 200 provides information. In the embodiment ofFIG. 2 ,item identifier 202 is text that includes a year of manufacture, a make, and a model of a vehicle about whichcomprehensive condition report 200 provides information. It is contemplated that other information, such as a VIN number and the like, may also be used. In one embodiment,item identifier 202 allows for the unique identification ofcomprehensive condition report 200 among other comprehensive condition reports, such as in an inventory of comprehensive condition reports in a virtual showroom, for example.Item identifier 202 may also comprise an image, a video, or other content formats that allowcomprehensive condition report 200 to be identified and associated with an item of interest. In another embodiment,item identifier 202 corresponds to one of identification fields 604 (e.g., 604-A), described further below with respect toFIG. 6 , for identifying an item among a plurality of items in an inventory data structure. In an embodiment,condition report 200 and the exemplary communication network environment ofFIG. 1 enable a plurality of sellers to maintain information about their inventories in a common location. For example, multiple sellers may utilize front-endinformation acquisition components 102 and/or end-user console portals 110 to each store an inventory of comprehensive condition reports 200 indatabase 106 such that the inventories are pooled together for access via end-user console portals 110. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , theitem overview component 204 is adapted for providing a visual summary of the item of interest. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 2 ,item overview component 204 is an image of a vehicle that is the item of interest.Item overview component 204 allows a user to visually recognize the item of interest, which may allow for easier or faster recognition or offer more information thanitem identifier 202. In additional embodiments,item overview component 204 may comprise other content formats, such as a video, that provide a visual summary of the item of interest. In another embodiment,item overview component 204 may display images and/or videos of specific portions of the item of interest, such as those depicted in alternateview image thumbnails 206, described below. - The alternate
view image thumbnails 206 shown inFIG. 2 are adapted for providing a means for users to access additional images and/or videos of the item of interest. In one embodiment, alternateview image thumbnails 206 display additional images that depict the item of interest from various angles or depict certain articles that comprise the item of interest. For example, alternateview image thumbnails 206 may depict a vehicle viewed from a side view, a forty-five degree angle view, and the like. Alternateview image thumbnails 206 may also depict a logo, a door handle, a scratch, a dent, and the like. In one embodiment, a selected one of alternateview image thumbnails 206 is displayed initem overview component 204. In another embodiment, a selected one of alternateview image thumbnails 206 is displayed in a pop-up window on a GUI, such asalert 802, described further below with respect toFIG. 8 . In yet another embodiment, one or more of alternateview image thumbnails 206 may display a stock image in a grayscale format to indicate that a corresponding image of the item of interest is not available. - The
factual information component 208 is adapted for providing objective information about the item of interest. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 2 ,factual information component 208 provides a VIN, a make, a model, and an engine type of a vehicle in a text format. Additional objective and factual information may also be provided byfactual information component 208, such as a percentage of the vehicle that contains scratches or damage, scratch dimensions, hail damage information, stain information, and the like. Further,factual information component 208 may provide objective information in additional content formats, such as images and videos. Beneficially, objective information provided byfactual information component 208 results in decreased network bandwidth usage - Referring further to the embodiment shown in
FIG. 2 , thesubjective information component 210 is adapted for providing subjective information about the item of interest. In one embodiment,subjective information component 210 provides statements that are ambiguous or subject to interpretation, such as “minor damage” and “great buy,” for example. In accordance with one aspect of the invention,subjective information component 210 allows a seller to provide information about the item of interest that may influence a potential purchaser, while also allowing the potential purchaser to identify this information as being separate from objective information provided byfactual information component 208. - The
exchange component 212 is adapted for providing the ability to engage in a transaction involving the item of interest. For example, the transaction may be a purchase, a sale, or an in-kind exchange of the item of interest. In one embodiment,exchange component 212 may be utilized to purchase the item of interest about whichcomprehensive condition report 200 provides information by selecting a GUI button. - The embodiment of
FIG. 2 further illustrates the exterior interactivepanoramic image 214, which is adapted for depicting a 360-degree view of the exterior of the item of interest. In one embodiment, exterior interactivepanoramic image 214 displays a continuous image that is comprised of individual images that have been stitched together by computer-executable instructions executing on a processor in front-endinformation acquisition components 102 and/orserver 104. In one embodiment, exterior interactivepanoramic image 214 is capable of being manipulated by a user so as to view different parts of the image via scrolling, panning, and zooming. For example, a human interface device (e.g., a mouse) may be utilized to manipulate exterior interactivepanoramic image 214 in order to spin the item of interest. In another embodiment, exterior interactivepanoramic image 214 provides a user with the ability to view information about the entire exterior of the item of interest in a visual format. In an exemplary embodiment, rather than displaying a subjective statement from a seller that a vehicle has “minor damage on the front driver-side door,” exterior interactivepanoramic image 214 provides a way for a user to view the damage in an objective manner. - The interior interactive
panoramic image 216 is adapted for depicting a 360-degree view of the interior of the item of interest. According to one embodiment, interior interactivepanoramic image 216 depicts a continuous image that is comprised of individual images that have been stitched together by computer-executable instructions executing on a processor in front-endinformation acquisition components 102 and/orserver 104. In a further embodiment, a user may manipulate interior interactivepanoramic image 216 by scrolling, panning, and zooming. In one embodiment, interior interactivepanoramic image 216 displays information about the entire interior of the item of interest in a visual format. For example, interior interactivepanoramic image 216 may provide a way to present a detail in an objective manner, instead of relying on a statement from a seller that a vehicle has “slight discoloration on the rear passenger-side seat.” - As additionally shown in
FIG. 2 , theaudio component 218 is adapted for providing information about the item of interest in an audio content format. In one embodiment, the information provided byaudio component 218 is objective, such as a sound recording of engine noise or brake squeaking of a vehicle, for example. In another embodiment, the information provided byaudio component 218 may be subjective, such as a sound recording of a seller's opinions or thoughts about the item of interest, for example. Advantageously, information provided in an audio format allows a user to acquire in-depth information about the item of interest, which contributes to user efficiency when viewingcomprehensive condition report 200 on a GUI. Further, increased user efficiency leads to reduced network bandwidth usage in a communication network transmitting or receivingcomprehensive condition report 200, includingaudio component 218. - The
video component 220 is adapted for providing a video presentation of the item of interest. In one embodiment,video component 220 displays moving photographs (e.g., videos or movies) of the item of interest in response to a command provided by the user via a GUI. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 2 ,video component 220 provides a video presentation as one subset ofcomprehensive condition report 200 on a GUI. In another embodiment,video component 220 may provide a video presentation in a pop-up window on a GUI, such asalert 802, described further below with respect toFIG. 8 . In further embodiments, a video presentation provided byvideo component 220 may include a salesperson or the like explaining features of the item of interest or a like video showcasing the item of interest. - The following exemplary computer-executable instructions provide buttons on a GUI for pulling a graphic and a video from
server 104 and displaying a video presentation by video component 220: -
<li><a href=“#” onclick=“javascript:window.open(‘http://sharpcarsmedia.com/buttons/ Ex.MOV’, ‘_blank’, ‘status=yes,top=0,left=0,width=640,height=480’);”> <img src=“http://sharpcarsmedia.com/buttons/ex2.jpg” alt=“” /> </a></li> <li><a href=“#” onclick=“javascript:window.open(‘http://sharpcarsmedia.com/buttons/ int.swf’, ‘_blank’, ‘status=yes,top=0,left=0,width=640,height=480’);”> <img src=“http://sharpcarsmedia.com/buttons/pano2.jpg” alt=“” /> </a></li> <li><a href=“#” onclick=“javascript:window.open(‘http://sharpcarsmedia.com/buttons/ pre.mov’, ‘_blank’, ‘status=yes,top=0,left=0,width=640,height=480’);”> <img src=“http://sharpcarsmedia.com/buttons/242.jpg” alt=“” /> </a></li> - Referring further to
FIG. 2 , theitem history component 222 is adapted for providing historical information relating to the item of interest. In one exemplary embodiment,item history component 222 provides information about a vehicle of interest, including, but not limited to, its manufacture, damage, repairs, ownership, and the like. For example,item history component 222 may provide images of a vehicle of interest during and after its manufacture, before transportation to a certain location, and after it has arrived at the certain location. In this manner,item history component 222 provides a detailed account with objective information about the status or condition of the item of interest at discrete points in time. In another embodiment,item history component 222 provides information about the deterioration of an item over time. The information provided byitem history component 222 may be in various content formats, such as images, videos, text, audio, and the like. - The
delivery tracking component 224 is adapted for providing information about the transport or location of the item of interest. In one exemplary embodiment,delivery tracking component 224 provides a user with information concerning the physical location of the item of interest at a current time and at times in the past. Further,delivery tracking component 224 may provide information about an expected future physical location of the item of interest. The information provided bydelivery tracking component 224 may be in various content formats, such as images (e.g., maps), videos, text, audio, and the like. - Still referring to the embodiment of
FIG. 2 , thesensory information component 226 is adapted for providing information that may be sensed by a user ofcomprehensive condition report 200. Exemplary sensory information includes, but is not limited to, visual, auditory (e.g., hearing), somatic sensations (e.g., touch, tactile perception), and vestibular (e.g., balance, movement). In one exemplary embodiment,sensory information component 226 provides a tactile perception of the material covering the seats inside a vehicle of interest via actuation of a touch-screen device on whichcomprehensive condition report 200 is displayed. In a further exemplary embodiment,sensory information component 226 provides a tactile perception that conveys the body style of a vehicle of interest when visual information provided byitem overview component 204, for example, is unavailable (e.g., technical failure or vision impairment of a user). - The
undercarriage component 228 is adapted for providing information about a portion of the item of interest that may not be provided by other components ofcomprehensive condition report 200. In one embodiment,undercarriage component 228 provides images of the undercarriage of a vehicle of interest such that objective information is available about the undercarriage of the vehicle. - Referring further to the embodiment shown in
FIG. 2 , thedamage component 230 is adapted for providing information about damage to the item of interest. In one embodiment,damage component 230 provides information about hail damage to a vehicle of interest via images of the hail damaged vehicle. The information provided bydamage component 230 may be in various content formats, such as images, videos, text, audio, and the like. Information provided bydamage component 230 in the form of images or videos may depict damage to the item of interest as captured by techniques that use electromagnetic radiation other than visible light, such as X-rays and infrared, for example. Moreover, information provided bydamage component 230 may utilize a distance transform or a signed distance function, for example to create a three-dimensional model of the item of interest and its damage. Beneficially, such techniques may provide detailed objective information about the damage that may not be readily available via a visible light image alone. - One embodiment of
comprehensive condition report 200 results in a benefit of reduced network bandwidth usage. This embodiment results in reduced network bandwidth usage when the item of interest about whichcomprehensive condition report 200 provides information meets a particular need and additional comprehensive condition reports for additional items are not accessed fromdatabase 106 and/orserver 104. For example, finite communications network resources may then be utilized to carry out other tasks. Such an embodiment also reduces the usage of computing resources byserver 104 while still providing users with desired information about a desired item or item of interest. Further, the increased user efficiency provided bycomprehensive condition report 200 results in reduced usage of stored electrical energy in a battery powering a GUI of components in end-user console portals 110, such as mobile phones and tablets. In another embodiment,comprehensive condition report 200 provides detailed objective information about an item of interest that allows consumers to realize advantageous aspects of both the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach and the virtual showroom approach. -
FIG. 3A illustrates anexemplary vinyl addendum 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, thevinyl addendum 300 includes the entirety of and/or certain portions or components ofcomprehensive condition report 200. In the embodiment shown byFIG. 3A ,vinyl addendum 300 is an information sheet including afactual information component 308, asubjective information component 310, and exchange components 312-A and 312-B. Vinyl addendum 300 has dimensions of 8.25 inches horizontal by 11.25 inches vertical. In one embodiment, the vinyl portion ofvinyl addendum 300 is heavy-duty and allows for exterior use in all types of weather conditions. Beneficially, a suitable vinyl will greatly reduce, or completely eliminate, the likelihood ofvinyl addendum 300 chipping or peeling. In a further embodiment, thefactual information component 308, thesubjective information component 310, the exchange components 312-A and 312-B, and/or additional articles are printed onvinyl addendum 300 with environmentally friendly, high-color, and vivid inks. Such colorfast printing lasts a minimum of one year, which eliminates showing, or giving an impression to the consumer, that the item of interest has been for sale for an extended length of time. Thus, the article of interest is provided with increased appeal to consumers, which results in a benefit to sellers, such as through increased profit in one exemplary embodiment. - The
factual information component 308 is adapted for providing objective information about the item of interest. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 3A ,factual information component 308 provides information such as VIN, make, model, manufacturer, accessories, and specifications of a vehicle of interest in a visual text format. Additional objective and factual information may also be provided byfactual information component 308, such as a percentage of the vehicle that contains scratches or damage, scratch dimensions, hail damage information, stain information, and the like. Further,factual information component 308 may provide objective information in additional visual content formats, such as images and the like. - Referring further to the embodiment shown in
FIG. 3A , thesubjective information component 310 is adapted for providing subjective information about the item of interest. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 3A ,subjective information component 310 provides the statement “GREAT DEAL!!” in a visual text format. It is contemplated thatsubjective information component 310 may provide statements that are ambiguous or subject to interpretation, such as “minor damage” and “you won't be disappointed,” for example. In accordance with one aspect of the invention,subjective information component 310 provides a seller with the ability to convey information about the item of interest that may influence a potential purchaser, while also allowing the potential purchaser to identify this information as being separate from objective information provided byfactual information component 308. Additionally,subjective information component 310 may provide subjective information in additional visual content formats, such as images and the like. - The
exchange components 312 are adapted for providing information that facilitates a transaction involving the item of interest. For example, a transaction may be a purchase, a sale, or an in-kind exchange of the item of interest. In the embodiment shown byFIG. 3A , exchange component 312-A provides information in a visual text format about the terms of a transaction involving a vehicle of interest. Exchange component 312-B ofFIG. 3A provides a quick response (QR) code that may be scanned or imaged with a device, such as those associated with end-user console portals 110. In one embodiment, exchange component 312-B is scanned with a device of end-user console portal 110 to accessinventory data structure 600 fromdatabase 106 and display acomprehensive condition report 200, includingexchange component 212, in a GUI on a display of the device of end-user console portal 110. In another embodiment, an administrator may scan exchange component 312-B with a device, such as those associated withadministrator console portal 108, to accessinventory data structure 600 fromdatabase 106. In one embodiment, exchange component 312-B is unique to the particular item of interest. -
FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary buyers guide printed on vinyl, generally indicated at 350, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The illustrated buyers guide is an information sheet measuring 8.25 inches horizontal and 11.25 inches vertical and listing warranty information for a vehicle as a federal mandate for consumer protection. The illustrated form notifies prospective consumers of the existence of a warranty or no warranty status of the vehicle to which the form is attached. In another embodiment, the buyers guide may be a Monroney sticker. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the vinyl on which the buyers guide is printed is heavy-duty and allows for exterior use in all types of weather conditions. Beneficially, a suitable vinyl will greatly reduce, or completely eliminate, the likelihood of the vinyl addendum chipping or peeling. Moreover, the buyers guide may be printed on vinyl with environmentally friendly, high-color, and vivid inks. Such colorfast printing lasts a minimum of one year, which eliminates showing, or giving an impression to the consumer, that the item of interest has been for sale for an extended length of time. Thus, the article of interest is provided with increased appeal to consumers, which results in a benefit to sellers. - In an embodiment,
exemplary vinyl addendum 300 and/or exemplary buyers guide 350 are affixed to the window of a vehicle corresponding to the addendum and the buyers guide. Beneficially, the vinyl on which the addendum and buyers guide are printed does not have its adherence to the window affected by movement of the window, such as when it is rolled down. Advantageously, the vinyl stays sharp, crisp, and as good as new, rather than becoming wrinkled or destroyed, such as via condensation. -
FIG. 4A illustrates a detailedcriteria data structure 400, for criterion identifiers and corresponding values that are associated with an item of interest, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, detailedcriteria data structure 400 is adapted to provide data representing an item of interest in an objective manner. - The detailed
criteria data structure 400 comprises a first group of criterion identifier fields 402, which include data that represents various criterion identifiers by which the item of interest may be identified or evaluated. For example, the criterion identifier fields 402 may include data representing criterion identifiers that ascertain the item of interest, such as a VIN, make, model, and the like of a vehicle. Further, criterion identifier fields 402 may include data representing evaluating criteria such as a percentage of an item of interest that is damaged and dimensions of damaged areas. It is to be understood by one skilled in the art that criterion identifier fields 402 may also include data representing evaluating criteria that are subjective, such as condition categories and opinions on the value of the item of interest. - Referring further to
FIG. 4A , the detailedcriteria data structure 400 also has a second group of criterion value fields 404 including data that represents values associated with a correspondingcriterion identifier field 402. For example, the criterion identifier field 402-C includes data representing a criterion identifier of “color” and corresponding criterion value field 404-C includes data representing a value of “red.” - In one embodiment, detailed
criteria data structure 400 is stored indatabase 106 onserver 104. In a further embodiment, criterion identifier fields 402 and criterion value fields 404 include data that is presented to a user via various components ofcomprehensive condition report 200. - One embodiment of detailed
criteria data structure 400 provides a benefit of reduced network bandwidth usage. This benefit may be provided by detailed objective information of detailedcriteria data structure 400 and allows finite communications network resources to be used to carry out other tasks. Additionally, detailedcriteria data structure 400 may reduce the usage of computing resources ofserver 104 while still providing users with desired information about a desired item or item of interest. Moreover, increased user efficiency provided by detailedcriteria data structure 400 results in reduced usage of stored electrical energy in a battery powering a display device in end-user console portals 110 on which data from detailedcriteria data structure 400 is displayed. In another embodiment, detailed objective information provided by detailedcriteria data structure 400 about an item of interest allows consumers to realize advantages of both the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach and the virtual showroom approach. -
FIG. 4B illustrates adetailed criteria component 410, which is adapted for determining values that are represented by data included in criterion identifier fields 402 and criterion value fields 404. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 4B , thedetailed criteria component 410 is presented in tangible form as a computer-executable module onserver 104. However, it is to be understood by one skilled in the art that detailedcriteria component 410 may also be implemented as a digital or analog electronic circuit.Detailed criteria component 410 comprises sub-components, including acriterion identifier component 412, acriterion value component 414, avalue determination component 416, and amemory 418. Also included in this embodiment is anetwork interface 420 ofserver 104. - The
network interface 420 is communicatively connected to front-endinformation acquisition components 102 anddatabase 106 via communications networks, such as the Internet. Thenetwork interface 420 is also communicatively connected to thememory 418, thecriterion identifier component 412, thecriterion value component 414, and thevalue determination component 416. In this manner,network interface 420 is also communicatively connected todetailed criteria component 410. These communicative connections betweennetwork interface 420 and other components included withinserver 104 may be accomplished via electrical interconnects.Memory 418 is also electrically connected tocriterion identifier component 412,criterion value component 414, andvalue determination component 416. Further,criterion identifier component 412,criterion value component 414, andvalue determination component 416 are each electrically connected to one another. - The
network interface 420 is adapted for facilitating data communication between front-endinformation acquisition components 102,database 106, anddetailed criteria component 410 and its various sub-components.Memory 418 is adapted for storing data utilized and/or generated bycriterion identifier component 412,criterion value component 414, andvalue determination component 416. -
Criterion identifier component 412 is adapted for providing data representing a current criterion identifier, such as criterion identifier field 402-F that corresponds to a largest scratch length value of a scratch on a vehicle of interest.Value determination component 416 is adapted for determining a value corresponding to the current criterion identifier provided bycriterion identifier component 412. In one embodiment, further explained below with respect toFIG. 4C ,value determination component 416 utilizes data provided bycriterion identifier component 412 and an image obtained from front-endinformation acquisition components 102 vianetwork interface 420 to determine the value corresponding to the current criterion identifier provided bycriterion identifier component 412. -
Criterion value component 414 is adapted for providing data representing the determined current criterion value. In one embodiment,criterion value component 414 provides data representing the value in criterion value field 404-F that corresponds to a value of “6” for the largest scratch length value of a scratch on the vehicle of interest. The data provided bycriterion value component 414 may be received fromvalue determination component 416. The data provided bycriterion value component 414 may also be received from front-endinformation acquisition components 102 via eithernetwork interface 420 ormemory 418. - In an embodiment,
detailed criteria component 410 provides advantages including increased user efficiency, reduced network bandwidth usage, and reduced computing resource utilization due to detailed information provided bydetailed criteria component 410. - Referring next to
FIG. 4C , a flow chart illustrates a method of determining values that are represented by data included in criterion value fields 404. The method includes animage acquisition step 450, afeature detection step 452, animage segmentation step 454, afeature extraction step 456, a feature identification andclassification step 458, afeature measurement step 460, a featuredimension output step 462, anarea determination step 464, afeature percentage step 466, and a featurepercentage output step 468. In one embodiment, the method steps are embodied in computer-executable instructions executing onserver 104. In another embodiment, the method steps may also be implemented by digital or analog electronic circuitry. - In operation according to one embodiment, an image is obtained at
image acquisition step 450 and stored in a computer-readable format. For example, an image is acquired with front-endinformation acquisition components 102 and transmitted toserver 104. Upon completion ofimage acquisition step 450,feature detection step 452 is performed. In one embodiment,feature detection step 452 comprises examining each pixel of the acquired image to determine whether a feature is present at a given pixel. Exemplary image features include, but are not limited to, edges, corners (e.g., interest points), regions of interest (e.g., blobs), and ridges.Feature detection step 452 may utilize feature detection methods such as Canny, smallest univalue segment assimilating nucleus (SUSAN), and features from accelerated segment test (FAST) embodied as computer-executable instructions, for example. - In one embodiment, after
feature detection step 452 is completed,image segmentation step 454 is performed. Duringimage segmentation step 454, the obtained image is transformed by a partitioning into multiple sets of pixels in order to locate objects and boundaries (e.g., lines, curves) in the obtained image. It is to be understood by one skilled in the art that whileimage segmentation step 454 may be used to change the representation of the obtained imaged into a format that is more meaningful or easier to analyze,image segmentation step 454 may be omitted and the method may proceed fromfeature detection step 452 directly to featureextraction step 456. - Referring further to
FIG. 4C , thefeature extraction step 456 transforms the obtained image into a set of features, such that the set contains relevant information from the obtained image. For example,feature extraction step 456 may transform an obtained image of a vehicle of interest into a set of scratches on the vehicle. In an embodiment,feature extraction step 456 transforms the obtained image into a set of features with minimal resources ofserver 104 andmemory 418. In one embodiment,feature extraction step 456 comprises general dimensionality reduction techniques, such as principal component analysis and latent semantic analysis, for example. In another embodiment,feature extraction step 456 utilizes a set of application-dependent features. - After
feature extraction step 456, the method illustrated byFIG. 4C proceeds to the feature identification andclassification step 458, in which one feature from the set of features is identified and classified as being of a certain type. In an embodiment, feature identification andclassification step 458 selects one feature from the set of features produced byfeature extraction step 456 and associates a unique identifier with that feature. The unique identifier given to the selected feature allows that feature to be tracked among more than one image and to be distinguished among other features. In another embodiment, feature identification andclassification step 458 associates a selected feature with a type of features. For example, a feature that corresponds to a scratch on a vehicle of interest may be classified as type “scratch.” The classification allows multiple features of the same type to be associated with each other for categorization. In one embodiment, feature identification andclassification step 458 utilizes data provided bycriterion identifier component 412 to provide the classification of the feature. - Still referring to the method illustrated by
FIG. 4C , the dimensions of the identified feature are determined byfeature measurement step 460. In an embodiment, featuremeasurement step 460 determines the dimensions of the identified feature in terms of pixels. In a further embodiment, featuremeasurement step 460 utilizes a predetermined value that is a function of the distance of the imaging device from the imaged object in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units (e.g., inches, centimeters, etc.). In yet another embodiment, featuremeasurement step 460 utilizes a known real-world dimension of an object in the same image as the identified feature in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units. The determined dimensions of the identified feature arefeature dimensions 462. In an embodiment, featuredimensions 462 are provided tocriterion value component 416. - The embodiment of
FIG. 4C further determines the total area of a region of interest, which includes the identified feature, atarea determination step 464. In an exemplary embodiment,area determination step 464 uses edges detected infeature detection step 452 to determine four edges that comprise the perimeter of a rectangular area of interest. The dimensions of the four edges are determined byfeature measurement step 460. Then, using the dimensions,area determination step 464 uses the equation that the area of a rectangle is equal to the width of the rectangle multiplied by the length of the rectangle (i.e., A=W×L) to calculate the area of the rectangular area of interest. It is to be understood by one skilled in the art that the total area of regions having other shapes may also be determined. For example, circular areas (i.e., A=πr2) and irregularly shaped areas (e.g., using a definite integral) may also be determined. In one embodiment,area determination step 464 determines the area of the region of interest in the unit of pixels. In another embodiment,area determination step 464 utilizes a predetermined value that is a function of the distance of the imaging device from the imaged object in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units (e.g., inches, centimeters, etc.). In yet another embodiment,area determination step 464 utilizes a known real-world dimension of an object in the same image as the identified feature in order to determine the dimensions of the identified feature in real-world units. - The
feature percentage step 466 then determines the ratio of the identified feature to the area of the region of interest. In an exemplary embodiment,feature percentage step 466 determines the area of an item of interest that is scratched and divides that value by the total area of the item of interest to calculate the ratio of the item of interest that is scratched. The determined ratio of the identified feature to the area of the region of interest isfeature percentage 468. In an embodiment,feature percentage 468 is provided tocriterion value component 416. -
FIG. 5A illustrates a desiredcriteria data structure 500 for criteria and corresponding values that are associated with a desired item of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. The desiredcriteria data structure 500 has a first group of desired criterion identifier fields 502 comprising data that represents criterion identifiers by which the desired item of interest may be identified or evaluated. In one exemplary embodiment, desired criterion identifier fields 502 include data representing identifying criteria such as a make, model, color, and the like of a vehicle. Additionally, desired criterion identifier fields 502 may include data representing evaluating criteria such as a desired percentage level of damage to an item of interest and acceptable dimensions of damaged areas. Moreover, desired criterion identifier fields 502 may also include data representing evaluating criteria that are subjective, such as acceptable condition categories (e.g., mint, average, fine, poor) and desired opinions on the value of the item of interest (e.g., CONSUMERS DIGEST BEST BUY™). - Referring again to
FIG. 5A , desiredcriteria data structure 500 also includes a second group of desired criterion value fields 504, each including data that represents values associated with a corresponding desiredcriterion identifier field 502. For example, desired criterion identifier field 502-G includes data representing a criterion of a maximum scratch width, in inches, acceptable to a user and corresponding desired criterion value field 504-G includes data representing a value of “0.25.” Desired criterion value fields 504 may also contain data representing acceptable values expressed in other ways. For example, “less than” and “greater than” values, such as “less than 15” of desired criterion value field 504-H, the “any” of desired criterion value field 504-A indicating that a user does not have a preference for the corresponding criterion 502-A, and the range “0-5” of desired criterion value field 504-E. - In one embodiment, desired
criteria data structure 500 functions as a wish list or favorites list of desired or acceptable criteria and corresponding values for a desired item of interest. In one embodiment, desiredcriteria data structure 500 is stored indatabase 106 onserver 104. In a further embodiment, desired criterion identifier fields 502 and desired criterion value fields 504 include data that are presented to a user via various components ofcomprehensive condition report 200. - One embodiment of desired
criteria data structure 500 provides a benefit of reduced network bandwidth usage. This benefit may be provided by desired criterion values provided by desiredcriteria data structure 500 and allows finite communications network resources to be used to carry out other tasks. Further, desiredcriteria data structure 500 may reduce the usage of computing resources onserver 104 while still providing users with the ability to locate a desired item or item of interest. Additionally, increased user efficiency provided by desiredcriteria data structure 500 results in reduced usage of stored electrical energy in a battery powering a display device in end-user console portals 110. In another embodiment, desiredcriteria data structure 500 allows consumers to realize advantages of both the traditional goods or real estate purchasing approach and the virtual showroom approach. -
FIG. 5B illustrates a desiredcriteria component 510 that, in one embodiment, is adapted for determining when an actual criterion value matches a desired criterion value. In a further embodiment, desiredcriteria component 510 is adapted for determining when an amount of matched criterion values satisfies an acceptable threshold level. The desiredcriteria component 510 includes a desiredcriterion identifier component 512, a desiredcriterion value component 514, an actualcriterion value component 516, amatch component 518, athreshold component 520, and amemory 522. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5B , desiredcriteria component 510 is included withinserver 104, in addition to anetwork interface 524. - The
network interface 524 is communicatively connected to front-endinformation acquisition components 102 anddatabase 106 via communications networks, such as the Internet.Network interface 524 is also communicatively connected to the desiredcriterion identifier component 512, the desiredcriterion value component 514, the actualcriterion value component 516, thematch component 518, thethreshold component 520, and thememory 522. By virtue ofnetwork interface 524 being communicatively connected to the sub-components of desiredcriteria component 510, one skilled in the art will understand thatnetwork interface 524 can be said to also be communicatively connected to desiredcriteria component 510.Memory 522 is electrically connected to desiredcriterion identifier component 512, desiredcriterion value component 514, actualcriterion value component 516,match component 518, andthreshold component 520. Desiredcriterion identifier component 512 is electrically connected to desiredcriterion value component 514, actualcriterion value component 516, andmatch component 518. Desiredcriterion value component 514 and actualcriterion value component 516 are each electrically connected to matchcomponent 518. Moreover,threshold component 520 is electrically connected to matchcomponent 518. - Referring further to
FIG. 5B , thenetwork interface 524 is adapted for facilitating data communication between front-endinformation acquisition components 102,database 106, and desiredcriteria component 510 and its sub-components.Memory 522 is adapted for storing data utilized and/or generated by desiredcriterion identifier component 512, desiredcriterion value component 514, actualcriterion value component 516,match component 518, andthreshold component 520. In an embodiment,memory 522 is a memory component onserver 104 that may be utilized by additional components ofserver 104. In another embodiment,memory 522 is a memory component utilized solely by desiredcriteria component 510. - Desired
criterion identifier component 512 is adapted for providing data representing a current desired criterion identifier, such as desired criterion identifier field 502-H corresponding to a maximum desired percentage of hail damage to a desired vehicle. In one embodiment, desiredcriterion identifier component 512 receives the current desired criterion identifier fromdatabase 106 vianetwork interface 524. In a further embodiment, desiredcriterion identifier component 512 receives the current desired criterion identifier frommemory 522. - Desired
criterion value component 514 ofFIG. 5B is adapted for providing data representing a desired criterion value corresponding to the current desired criterion identifier provided by desiredcriterion identifier component 512. In an embodiment, desiredcriterion value component 514 provides data representing desired criterion value field 504-H, which corresponds to a value of the maximum desired percentage of hail damage to the desired vehicle. - Actual
criterion value component 516 is adapted for providing data representing an actual criterion value corresponding to the current desired criterion identifier provided by desiredcriterion identifier component 512. In one embodiment, actualcriterion value component 516 provides data representing criterion value field 404-H, which corresponds to a value of the percentage of hail damage to a vehicle of interest. - Still referring to
FIG. 5B ,match component 518 is adapted for determining when the actual criterion value provided by actualcriterion value component 516 satisfies the desired criterion value provided by desiredcriterion value component 514. In an embodiment, the data provided by desiredcriterion identifier component 512, desiredcriterion value component 514, and actualcriterion value component 516 are received bymatch component 518.Match component 518 then compares the actual criterion value and the desired criterion value, as further described below with respect toFIG. 5C . In an embodiment in which the actual criterion value satisfies the desired criterion value,match component 518 provides the desired criterion identifier and a match indicator tomemory 522,threshold component 520, and/ornetwork interface 524. In an embodiment in which the actual criterion value fails to satisfy the desired criterion value,match component 518 provides the desired criterion identifier and a no-match indicator tomemory 522,threshold component 520, and/ornetwork interface 524. -
Threshold component 520 is adapted for determining when a number of match indicators provided bymatch component 518 and/ormemory 522 satisfies a threshold value provided bymemory 522 and/ornetwork interface 524. In one embodiment, data provided bymatch component 518 is received bythreshold component 520. In a further embodiment, data stored inmemory 522 is retrieved bythreshold component 520.Threshold component 520 compares a percent of match indicators to a threshold value, as further described below with respect toFIG. 5D . - In one embodiment, a threshold value is provided by an end-
user console portal 110 and stored indatabase 106 ormemory 522. The threshold value indicates an amount of deviation from a desired item that will be considered acceptable. For example, desiredcriteria data structure 500 may represent criterion values of a desired vehicle, such that satisfaction of every criterion value by a vehicle of interest would be deemed a complete match. However, a deviation from a complete match, such as a vehicle of interest that satisfies ninety percent of the criterion values, may be acceptable for a particular need. In this instance, the vehicle of interest will be deemed a matching vehicle although it is not a complete match. - In an embodiment in which the percent of match indicators satisfies the threshold value,
threshold component 520 provides a match indication. For example, the match indication may be provided bythreshold component 520 tomemory 522,database 106 vianetwork interface 524, and/or end-user console portals 110 vianetwork interface 524. In an embodiment in which the percent of match indicators does not satisfy the threshold value,threshold component 520 does not provide a match indication. - In an embodiment, desired
criteria component 510 provides advantages including increased user efficiency, reduced network bandwidth usage, and reduced computing resource utilization due to data provided bymatch component 518 and/orthreshold component 520. - Referring next to
FIG. 5C , a flow chart illustrates a method of determining a match between a desired criterion value and an actual criterion value. In one embodiment, the illustrated method is embodied in computer-executable instructions stored onserver 104 and executed bymatch component 518. The method includes a readcriterion identifier step 530, a read actualcriterion value step 532, a read desiredcriterion value step 534, adetermination step 536, a storematch indicator step 538, and a store no-match indicator step 540. - During the read
criterion identifier step 530, data representing a desired criterion identifier is accessed or received. In an exemplary embodiment,match component 518 receives the data representing the desired criterion identifier provided by desiredcriterion identifier component 512. At the read actualcriterion value step 532, data representing an actual criterion value is accessed or received. For example,match component 518 receives the data representing the actual criterion value provided by actualcriterion value component 516. The read desiredcriterion value step 534 results in data representing a desired criterion value being accessed or received. In an embodiment,match component 518 receives the data representing the desired criterion value provided by desiredcriterion value component 514. - At
determination step 536 ofFIG. 5C , it is ascertained whether the actual criterion value satisfies the desired criterion value. For example,match component 518 may compare an actual value of “10” (e.g., the percentage of hail damage to a vehicle of interest in criterion value field 404-H) to a desired value of “less than 15” (e.g., the maximum desired percentage of hail damage to a desired vehicle in desired criterion value field 504-H). In this example, the actual value “10” satisfies the desired value of “less than 15,” and thus the vehicle of interest matches the desired vehicle with respect to the maximum percentage of hail damage criterion identifier. Such a satisfaction of the desired criterion value results in the method proceeding to step 538, in which the criterion identifier and a match indicator are stored inmemory 522 and/ordatabase 106. The match indicator specifies that the desired criterion value has been satisfied by the actual criterion value for the corresponding criterion identifier. - In the
event determination step 536 ascertains that the actual criterion value does not satisfy the desired criterion value, the method proceeds to step 540. Atstep 540, the criterion identifier and a no-match indicator are stored inmemory 522 and/ordatabase 106. The no-match indicator specifies that the actual criterion value has failed to satisfy the desired criterion value for the corresponding criterion identifier. - Referring to
FIG. 5D , a flow chart illustrates a method of determining when an item of interest falls with a desired match threshold value. As explained above with respect toFIG. 5B , the threshold value indicates an amount of deviation from a desired item that will be considered acceptable. In one embodiment, the method ofFIG. 5D is embodied in computer-executable instructions stored onserver 104 and executed bythreshold component 520. The method includes a matchindicator amount step 550, a total combinedamount step 552, apercent determination step 554, athreshold value step 556, asatisfaction determination step 558, amatch indication step 560, and anend process step 562. - At the match
indicator amount step 550, a determination is made of an amount of the number of match indicators for a particular item of interest. In one embodiment,threshold component 520 accesses match indicators stored inmemory 522 and determines a total number of match indicators associated with an item of interest. - During the total combined
amount step 552 ofFIG. 5D , a determination is made of a total combined number of match indicators and no-match indicators associated with the item of interest. For example,threshold component 520 may access the match indicators and no-match indicators stored inmemory 522 and then add the amount of each together. - At
percent determination step 554, a determination is made of the ratio of match indicators to the total combined number of match indicators and no-match indicators. In an embodiment, the ratio indicates an amount that an item of interest deviates from a desired item. Duringthreshold value step 556, a threshold value is accessed bythreshold component 520. In one embodiment,threshold component 520 accesses the threshold value frommemory 522.Threshold component 520 may also access the threshold value fromdatabase 106 or receive the threshold value end-user console portals 110 vianetwork interface 524. - Still referring to
FIG. 5D , asatisfaction determination step 558 ascertains whether the percentage determined atpercent determination step 554 satisfies the threshold value fromthreshold value step 556. For example, a percentage of 95 percent may be determined duringpercent determination step 554 and a threshold value of 90 percent may be accessed atthreshold value step 556. Thus, the item of interest deviates from a desired item by 5 percent (e.g., the difference between 100 and 95) and the amount of deviation from the desired item that is acceptable is 10 percent (e.g., the difference between 100 and 90). In this example, the percentage of 95 percent satisfies the threshold value of 90 percent. Such a satisfaction of the threshold value results in the method proceeding to step 560, in which a match indication is provided. In an embodiment, a match indication is provided asalert 802 on a GUI of a device of end-user console portals 110. A match indication may also be an e-mail, a text message, or the like. In another embodiment, the match indication is provided todatabase 106 vianetwork interface 524. In the eventsatisfaction determination step 558 ascertains that the percentage does not satisfy the threshold value, the method proceeds to step 562 where the process ends. -
FIG. 6 illustrates aninventory data structure 600 for a plurality of items of interest according to an embodiment of the invention. Theinventory data structure 600 includes inventory records 602-A, 602-B, and 602-N, each of which correspond to a particular item of interest and contain associated identification fields 604, condition report fields 606, detailed criteria information fields 608, andadditional fields 610. In an exemplary embodiment, the inventory record 602-A corresponds to a first vehicle of interest, the inventory record 602-B corresponds to a second vehicle of interest, and the inventory record 602-N corresponds to a third vehicle of interest. In this manner, inventory record 602-A, inventory record 602-B, and inventory record 602-N comprise an inventory of vehicles available for display via a virtual showroom. Moreover, inventory record 602-A may comprise an inventory of a first seller, inventory record 602-B may comprise an inventory of a second seller, and inventory record 602-N may comprise an inventory of a third seller. In this manner,inventory data structure 600 is adapted for providing a common inventory containing items from multiple sellers. In one embodiment,inventory data structure 600 is stored indatabase 106 onserver 104. In a further embodiment,inventory records 602 include data that is presented via various components ofcomprehensive condition report 200 and/or virtual showroom 700 (FIG. 7 ). - Referring further to
FIG. 6 , the identification fields 604 are adapted for identifyinginventory records 602 among each other. In an exemplary embodiment, identification field 604-A contains data representing a value of “1” and identification field 604-B contains data representing a value of “2” such that inventory record 602-A and inventory record 602-B are identified separately from each other. In a further embodiment, eachidentification field 604 contains data representing a VIN number of a vehicle to which eachinventory record 602 corresponds. - The condition report fields 606 are adapted for storing data that comprise
comprehensive condition report 200. The detailed criteria information fields 608 are adapted for storing data that comprise detailedcriteria data structure 400. Theadditional fields 610 are adapted for storing further data corresponding toinventory records 602. In one embodiment, additional field 610-A stores data that comprises desiredcriteria data structure 500. In another embodiment, additional field 610-A stores data identifying a seller or dealer who is holding the item of interest corresponding to inventory record 602-A open for an exchange. -
FIG. 7 illustrates a graphical user interface virtual showroom, generally indicated at 700, for displaying an inventory of items in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Thevirtual showroom 700 is comprised of a website template and includes user controls 702,inventory area 704, and inventory items 706-A, 706-B, and 706-C. In an embodiment, thevirtual showroom 700 is used with a website template stored onserver 104 or an external server for managing or showcasing the item inventory. - The
virtual showroom 700 is comprised of the templates, images, and corresponding information and is accessible via the Internet. Advantageously, the website template permits a developer to easily build a website from the hosted content to showcase goods or real estate. Through use of the template, aspects of the invention integrate with database 105 to dynamically populate customer and item data for showcasing item data that has been processed byserver 104. For example,virtual showroom 700 may showcase item data contained ininventory data structure 600. In an embodiment, the populated template consists of a homepage, a showroom page containing an entry (e.g., inventory items 706) for each item, and a detailed item page for each item (e.g., comprehensive condition report 200). It is contemplated thatvirtual showroom 700 may be accessed via the end-user console portals 110 from any computing device, including but not limited to personal computers, mobile devices, and tablet computing devices. - In an embodiment, the user controls 702-A, 702-B, and 702-C are adapted for capturing criterion values of various criterion identifiers for a desired item. For example, the captured criterion values may be stored in desired criterion value fields 504 of desired
criteria data structure 500. In another embodiment, user controls 702-A, 702-B, and 702-C are adapted for capturing values that specify which items corresponding to selectinventory records 602 ofinventory data structure 600 will be displayed ininventory area 704. User controls 702 may be checkboxes, sliders, text inputs, or the like on a graphical user interface of a device of end-user console portals 110. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 7 , theinventory area 704 is adapted for displaying theinventory items 706. For example, inventory item 706-A may correspond to inventory record 602-A ofinventory data structure 600. In another embodiment,inventory area 704 may be adapted for displayingcomprehensive condition report 200 or a portion thereof. For instance, inventory item 706-A may display a portion of condition report field 606-A ofinventory data structure 600, which stores data that comprisecomprehensive condition report 200 for an item corresponding to inventory record 602-A. -
FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary graphical user interface pop-upnotification alert 802. In the illustrated embodiment, the alert 802 includes amatch overview component 804, a matchfactual information component 806, and user controls 808.Alert 802 is adapted for notifying a user that an item of interest satisfies the threshold value for a desired item. In the illustrated embodiment, alert 802 is a pop-up notification on a GUI. Exemplary pop-up notifications include toastings, passive pop-ups, desktop notifications, notification bubbles, rustings, balloon notifications, and the like. It is also contemplated thatalert 802 may be a text message, email, auditory alert, vibrating device alert, and the like. - The
match overview component 804 is adapted for providing a visual summary of the item of interest. In the embodiment illustrated byFIG. 8 ,match overview component 804 is an image of a vehicle that is the item of interest.Match overview component 804 allows a user to visually recognize the item of interest. In additional embodiments,match overview component 804 may comprise other content formats that provide a visual summary of the item of interest, such as text and video. In another embodiment,match overview component 804 may correspond toitem overview component 204 ofcomprehensive condition report 200. - The match
factual information component 806 is adapted for providing objective information about the item of interest. For example, matchfactual information component 806 may provide a VIN, a make, a model, and an engine type of a vehicle of interest in a text format. Additional objective and factual information may also be provided by matchfactual information component 806, such as a percentage of a vehicle of interest that contains scratches or damage, scratch dimensions, hail damage information, stain information, and the like. Further, matchfactual information component 806 may provide objective information in additional content formats, such as images and videos. In another embodiment, matchfactual information component 806 may correspond tofactual information component 208 ofcomprehensive condition report 200. - The user controls 808 are adapted for receiving commands corresponding to alert 802. For example, a
user control 808 may include a “view” button that, when pressed, provides for the display ofcomprehensive condition report 200 corresponding to the item of interest. In another embodiment, auser control 808 may include a button that is adapted for providing the ability to engage in a transaction involving the item of interest. Exemplary transactions include purchases, sales, and in-kind exchanges of the item of interest. Further, auser control 808 may dismiss alert 802. - When introducing elements of aspects of the invention or the embodiments thereof, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.
- Having described aspects of the invention in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of aspects of the invention as defined in the appended claims. As various changes could be made in the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of aspects of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
Claims (19)
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US10963749B2 (en) | 2014-12-12 | 2021-03-30 | Cox Automotive, Inc. | Systems and methods for automatic vehicle imaging |
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US20190095877A1 (en) * | 2017-09-26 | 2019-03-28 | Panton, Inc. | Image recognition system for rental vehicle damage detection and management |
US11423470B1 (en) | 2020-04-24 | 2022-08-23 | StoreEase, LLC | Systems and methods for enabling remote management of storage facilities |
JP2022163452A (en) * | 2021-04-14 | 2022-10-26 | 東芝テック株式会社 | Commodity registration device and program |
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