Importance

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Abstract

Methods and apparatus for disseminating over the Internet product information produced and maintained by product manufacturers using existing universal product codes (bar codes) as access keys. A cross-referencing resource, which may take the form of an independent HTTP server, an LDAP directory server, or the existing Internet Domain Name Service (DNS), receives Internet request messages containing all or part of a universal product code and returns the Internet address at which information about the identified product, or the manufacturer of that product, may be obtained. By using preferred Web data storage formats which conform to XML, XLS, XLink, Xpointer and RDF specifications, product information may be seamlessly integrated with information from other sources. A 'web register' module can be employed to provide an Internet interface between a shared sales Internet server and an otherwise conventional inventory control system, and operates in conjunction with the cross-referencing server to provide detailed product information to Internet shoppers who may purchase goods from existing stores via the Internet.

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First Claim