Combined on-site and online auction systems and methods
First Claim
1. A system for auctioning an item to a user, the system comprising:
- means for a bidder to view an item to be auctioned; and
means for a user to electronically bid on the item, the bidding means being located in the proximity of the item.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Auction systems and methods for using such auction systems to sell items and conduct auctions are described. The auction systems contain an online auction system, an on-site auction system, or a combination thereof. The action system contains an item(s) for the auction(s) in a warehouse or other location physically accessible to the bidders. On-site bidders are able to inspect and bid on the items by using electronic stations or kiosks, either fixed or portable, that are located at the physical location (i.e., warehouse) and that are linked to an internal electronic network. The internal electronic network is also linked to an external electronic network, such as the Internet, that allows the auction to also proceed as an online auction. Both on-site and online bidders can therefore also bid on the items electronically. Using the auction system allows personal inspection and verification of the item(s) before participating in the auction process. As well, the auction system can allow a third party inspection and/or validation of item.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A system for auctioning an item to a user, the system comprising:
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means for a bidder to view an item to be auctioned; and
means for a user to electronically bid on the item, the bidding means being located in the proximity of the item. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 20)
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10. A method for electronically auctioning an item to a user, comprising:
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providing an item to be auctioned;
providing means for a bidder to inspect the item; and
providing electronic bidding means. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14)
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15. A method for purchasing an item in an auction, comprising:
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providing means for electronically bidding in an auction, the bidding means located proximate an item to be auctioned and electronically connected to one other device; and
using the electronic bidding means to bid in the auction. - View Dependent Claims (16, 17, 18, 19)
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Specification