Computer processes for selecting nodes to call to attention of a user during browsing of a hierarchical browse structure
US6606619B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2002 |
| Grant date | Aug 12, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 29, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S707/99945
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A computer-implemented process identifies specific nodes within a browse tree or other hierarchical browse structure based on historical actions of online users, and calls such nodes to the attention of users during navigation of the browse structure. The system and method are particularly useful for assisting users in locating popular products and/or product categories within a catalog of an online merchant, but may be used in connection with browse structures used to locate other types of items. In one embodiment, node popularity levels are determined periodically (e.g., once per day) based on user activity data that represents users' affinities for such nodes (items and/or item categories). Popular nodes are called to the attention of users, preferably by automatically “elevating” such nodes for display within the browse tree. The node elevation process may also be used to elevate nodes that are predicted to be of interest to a particular user.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.