MONITORING

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an electronically implemented system to collate the trading values and availability of collectables from existing valuations, shop offers and registered trades in real time.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventional methods of ascertaining approximate values for collectables include hard copy valuation catalogues. These are normally physically large. Further, multiple sources need to be reviewed to obtain trend data. Still further, the information in the hard copy valuation catalogues is out of date from the publication date and is time consuming to update, making updates sporadic at best.

It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a system for real-time valuation and asset availability monitoring, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a system for real-time valuation and asset availability monitoring, the system including: a) At least one computer server or computer network operating a primary software application associated with at least one database of user profiles and at least one database of items with associated trading value calculated in real time and based at least partially on finalised trades within the system;

b) At least one first person with a personal computing device having an image capture device and data transmission capability and operating a secondary software application to create an electronic first person message relating to items desired for purchase, the at least one first person forwarding the electronic first person message to the at least one computer server or computer network operating a primary software application over an electronic data transmission network accessible through at least the secondary software application operating on the at least one first person's personal computing device,

c) At least one second person with a personal computing device having an image

display and capture device and data transmission capability and operating a secondary software application to allow the at least one second person view the first person message on the second person's personal computing device, the second person maintaining a list of items available for purchase via the secondary software application using the image display and capture device of the second person's personal computing device;

Wherein the at least one second person is able to electronically list items available for sale by creating an electronic item description which updates the at least one database of items in real time and the first person is able to view the electronic item description of items for sale, and agreeable at least one first and at least one second persons can transact a trade for one or more items based on the electronic item description via the at least one computer server or computer network operating a primary software application.

The present invention relates to an electronically implemented system to collate the trading values and availability of collectables from existing valuations, shop offers and registered trades in real time allowing sellers to list items for sale, prospective purchasers to locate items desired for purchase and allow sellers and purchasers to conduct the transaction remotely whilst providing a real time valuation mechanism based at least partially on finalised trades within the system. Data may be collected in the system or manually entered to update the values of the items in that collectable genre. Data can also be uploaded individually or in bulk via common file formats (for example csv or plist format). Users can subscribe at different levels that affect which data the user has access to.

The system of the present invention is based around a first person utilising a personal computing device such as a smartphone, computer, tablet computer or any other personal computing device to upload details about items that they desire to add to their collection and then a second person who also has a personal computing device such as a smartphone, computer, tablet computer or any other personal computing device to upload details about items that they are willing to sell from their collection in order for buyers to connect with sellers with all parties to the system having access to real time valuation information relating to the items so that all parties are on a level playing field in any ensuing transaction which may also take place through the system.

Preferably, access to the system for both the first person and the second person will be via the personal computing device. The secondary software application for each user may be the same application and the functionality and use of the software application determined by the category of the user which is preferably determined at login according to the user's unique login information. As mentioned above, the personal computing device can be any type however, it will typically be a smart phone, computer tablet or other portable device having at least one communication pathway in order to communicate with the computer server or computer network operating the primary software application.

The personal computing device preferred for use in the present invention includes a processor with on-board memory, a display, at least one input apparatus, at least one output apparatus (such as audio output, directly via speakers or similar or indirectly via a port or similar allowing the connection of speakers, visual output or similar), and access to at least one communication pathway to transmit data between system components. Normally, the display will preferably be a touchscreen as many personal computing devices currently available have this feature. The advantages of the touchscreen include allowing a larger display and also allowing the display to function as a part of or as, the input apparatus. The display will also function as an image capture and display device. These types of devices also usually have at least one camera allowing image capture and the display will generate and display interfaces based on user interaction with the system utilising information stored in the at least one databases associated with the at least one computer server or computer network operating the primary software application.

Preferably, the software operating on the hardware of the system of the present invention includes a primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network. Preferably, a secondary software component is provided at the personal computing device level on each of the user personal computing devices in order to interact with the primary software application. The primary software application is preferably the "engine" of the system and method, responsible for receiving the various uploads created or captured by a user, record them and update the system in real time to reflect changes made.

The system includes a secondary software application designed to operate on smartphones, tablet computers and another mobile device that each buyer and seller will require in order to access the Internet data transmission. The software application will preferably be available through an application distribution platform, which is typically operated by the owner of the mobile operating system, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play, Windows Phone Store and BlackBerry App World. The application of the present invention will normally be downloaded from the application distribution platform to a target mobile device.

Preferably, the secondary software application is provided to operate on a personal computing device with appropriate connections through the personal computing device to the computer server or computer network operating a primary software application in order to gain additional information to that present on the personal computing device. The additional information may be obtained from the computer server or computer network and/or by push notification from the computer server or computer network to the personal computing device and/or upon request from the personal computing device.

The secondary software application will preferably allow communication with the primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network. Preferably, the primary software program operating on the computer server or computer network will be more advanced and be responsible for the bulk of the processing with the secondary software application operating on the smartphones, tablet computers and another mobile device typically smaller and with less processing power, optimised to send and receive instructions and requests and leaves the operations requiring larger processing power to the primary software program operating on the computer server or computer network.

According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention will preferably have a number of parties associated with the system, with a party categorised into one or more general user types. The preferred types of parties associated with the system include a system

administrator (which can be one or more people, and/or machines in one or more locations), sellers/listers who offer or list items for sale or trade and prospective purchasers (later purchasers if they actually buy or trader with a seller/lister) who are people that have items that they wish to add to their collections and use the system of the present invention to locate such items for sale and/or to actually purchase or trade for them.

Users will normally download the software application to their personal computing device. The download of the software application will normally include appropriate instructions to be stored in the memory of the personal computing device in order to create and maintain links and associations with the computer server or computer network in order to

communicate with one or more databases associated therewith.

The personal computing device normally provides access to one or more communications pathways in order to communicate with the computer server or computer network in order to access the system. Normally, the computer server or computer network will be associated with or access one or more databases containing information about the users such that information regarding the identity of any one or more of these parties may be communicated by the personal computing device or the software application to ensure that the personal computing device requesting data from the computer server or computer network or to which data is to be sent or from which information is received, is a personal computing device of an authorised user of the system. This functionality is normally accomplished through a login facility in which the user uses a personal computing device to log into the system.

The login process may use login details that the user has developed for another application or use. For example, the user may use a Facebook or Twitter account login or similar or alternatively login details for an email system such as Gmail or Hotmail in order to access the system of the present invention. Normally, details of the user login will be stored in a corresponding user profile in at least one user database and as a login request is received, the computer server or computer network will typically ensure that the login details supplied match those of a user before allowing access to the system and any databases on the system. Normally, a login prompt is produced and displayed as a displayed image or interface on the display of the personal computing device and including at least one action button. This will normally allow input or selection of the desired login information into an input template and which also prompts input of the login information provided by action in the form of a submission to the computer server or computer network. This will normally be a two-part process in which the user will normally select the desired login type if permitted followed by entry of the user particular identification information and password followed by the submission step. Upon submission, the entered details will be sent to the primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network for authorisation.

Therefore, the personal computing device is typically used to create a login request which is then sent via a communications pathway to the computer server or computer network whereupon the system of the present invention checks the user database(s) for a match and allows access to the system if the match occurs and denies access to the system if a match does not occur.

The at least one input apparatus used to input information into the personal computing device therefore will typically be formed or displayed on the display of the personal computing device as required. The at least one input apparatus will normally take the form of a virtual keyboard including letters of the alphabet, numbers and/or symbols as well as one or more action icons to allow a user to implement action on the personal computing device.

Typically, a portion of the image displayed on the display of the personal computing device will be provided as visual feedback reflecting the input provided by the user of the personal computing device.

Other types of input apparatus are typically also present including at least one voice input apparatus, typically a microphone or similar device or a biometric device could be used.

The method of the present invention is preferably achieved by computer hardware operating software containing instructions in association with one or more communications pathways between a variety of pieces of computer hardware operating software compliant with the system, in order to achieve the method.

The computer hardware included in the system of the present invention typically includes a computer server or computer network operating the primary software application which is operated or maintained by a system administrator and which electronically stores information in relation to the users of the system and also receives uploads, updates the one or more databases in real time and maintains the valuation information in real-time. The hardware also preferably includes or has access to a communication network in order to send/receive requests from users to and from the computer server or computer network.

As mentioned above, the hardware included in the system of the present invention also includes a personal computing device for each user. The respective personal computing devices will preferably be the primary points of access to the system of the present invention by the users of the system and normally interaction with the primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network will occur using the personal computing devices. The hardware included in the system of the present invention can be relatively generic hardware including as it does, a computer server and one or more personal computing devices, each with access to a communication network. As mentioned above, the personal computing devices will typically be a smart phone, tablet or other computer.

The computer server or computer network will normally include a processor with memory operating instructions and a number of databases stored in electronic form. The databases will typically include at least one user database containing a unique user profile for each user of the system and at least one database of items may be maintained separately from the at least one user database or alternatively, the information relating to the items may be stored in or associated with the respective user profiles. It is anticipated that the at least one user database can be provided as a single database, with the designation of a user as being either a buyer or seller (or both) dependent upon the use of the system.

The system of the present invention will normally be implemented through instructions which when followed, generate one or more interfaces on a personal computing device. The instructions will normally be sent from the primary software application on the computer server or computer network to a user's personal computing device and which will then be followed in order to generate an interface in real time and update the interface according to the user's interaction with the system.

Many of these personal computing devices have touchscreens for display allowing the user to directly interact with the touch screen in order to interact with the interface. However, a normal non-touchscreen display can be used with a movable pointer or selection tool in order to allow a user to interact with the interface. One or more "buttons" are provided on the interface to allow the user to interact with the personal computing device and through the personal computing device, to interact with the system.

The generated interface will typically be updated substantially in real time according to the rules or instructions which are issued by the primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network and the at least one user database. The generated interface will also typically be updated substantially in real time according to interactions by the user(s) with the system.

Typically, the generated interface will be used to login to the system using unique login information or details. Normally this will be the case regardless of what type of user is logging into the system. The classification of the user as a buyer or seller may be made according to the login details or by the user, after login. The system will preferably allow a user to set up a profile designating themselves as a buyer, seller or both and this setup (or any change thereto) is preferably subject to approval by the system administrator. As mentioned above, a user may login to a third-party system such as a social media network and then access the system of the present invention by interacting or selecting a link which may be displayed on the social media network site. For example, one particularly preferred mechanism for entry to the system of the present invention is through Facebook and particularly, through a link or share which appears on a user's newsfeed. The link will typically be associated with explanatory text or material which explains the concept of the system and because the user is interested, the user will normally, having already logged into Facebook, simply select the link and be redirected to the generated interface of the system of the present invention.

The log in interface may give an additional option of using the system for free. If this selection is made by a user, generally no data is saved about the user and the user will generally only have limited functionality and access to information. The limits may be a time limit or an accessibility limit.

Further, the login interface may allow new users to subscribe to access to the system. Upon logging by an existing user, the system of the present invention will preferably generate and display an interface on the personal computer device according to the user category as either a buyer or a seller. A user who is a member of both categories may be prompted to choose their next action.

Generally, upon opening the software application operating on the personal computing device, a user will be prompted to either login if they are an existing user, subscribe if they are a new user or use the application for free. If the user is a new user, they will typically be prompted to enter basic identifying information about themselves for the preparation of a unique user profile to be stored in association with the at least one primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network. The basic identifying information will normally include an email address, password (with verification or double entry step), and user location information such as the city, country and/or postcode. The user may also be prompted to select the user category either as a collector/purchaser or a seller.

Normally, access to the system will be on a subscription basis with payment of a

corresponding subscription fee. The subscription fee is preferably different for different user categories. Normally, selection of the collector/purchaser category allows a user to access the valuation information and purchase items whereas selection as a seller will typically give access to valuation information, the right to sell items but also gives the same access as a collector/purchaser allowing a seller to both sell and purchase items using system.

If the user selects the seller category, the system may generate and display an interface requesting further information from the user such as contact details, one or more contact telephone numbers, one or more addresses such as a physical address and/or a postal address.

If the user selects the seller category, the user will also be able to identify whether they are willing to provide valuations in relation to particular items listed. This will typically be in the form of a binary choice such as yes or no with a selection of one or the other required. If the user selects the seller category, the user will typically also be prompted to design an advertisement to be provided to collectors or purchases. The advertisement may include one or more images and/or text. Preferably, the user will have the ability to design the advertisement within the secondary software application operating on their personal computing device and/or design the advertisement externally and upload an electronic file containing the advertisement into the software application (either secondary or primary) preferably the secondary software application which then adds the advertisement to the user profile stored in association with the primary software application.

Regardless of whether the user chooses to subscribe as a collector/purchaser or as a seller, a subscription fee will typically require payment in order to access the system. Once the entry of information has been completed, the system will typically generate and display an additional subscription interface in order that the user can enter payment details. This may be an automatic step upon entry of the required details or an additional action from the user may be required such as clicking a "submit" button or a "proceed to payments" button provided on an interface generated and displayed on the personal computing device. There are a number of payment mechanisms and facilities which are conventionally available in order to process payments such as this in an online environment in any one of these mechanisms may be used according to the system of the present invention.

If the user is an existing user and chooses to login to the system, or chooses to use a system for free, or once the subscription has been completed, a user will typically be granted access to the system and one of two main interfaces will be generated and displayed on the personal computing device. The two main interfaces are typically a "catalogue" interface identifying one or more particular products and/or references and a "views" interface which allows a user to select from a number of options about the action that they wish to take.

Typically, a user can move from the catalogue interface to the views interface easily.

An existing user is normally presented with the catalogue interface initially.

The catalogue interface preferably includes a search functionality with one or more data entry fields and the ability to "filter" and/or "sort" results through the provision of action buttons. The interface also includes a change "view" action button allowing movement to the "views" interface. The catalogue interface allows a user to search by location and/or collectable type with a number of subcategories available to allow a user to refine the search parameters. The interface will typically allow entry of keywords into the data entry fields. The search functionality may allow searching for all of the words entered, any of the words entered, the exact words entered in order in any order. The user is also preferably given the ability to exclude words from a search. The user additionally preferably has the ability to search by price, buying format, condition, postage or collection options as well is searching directly on sellers. The user can browse a sellers store or list of available collectibles held in a particular seller' s inventory.

The catalogue interface may populate with one or more locations allowing the user to browse availability of items in those particular locations. The user may be able to set locations as favourite locations. If the user clicks the "sort" action button, a new interface will typically be produced and generated on the display of the personal computing device. The sort interface will typically allow a user to sort and/or filter results. The sort functionality may relate to location but will preferably also allow the selection of a particular parameter to allow a user to drill down to identify collectibles within the system of the present invention. If a user does a search and more than one matching product is returned, then the user can select a particular product from the list of matching search results. The user can change the order of the list based on various selections made by the user. This interface will also typically include a "back" button.

If the user chooses a particular item or product, a product interface may be produced and generated on the display of the personal computing device containing unique information about that particular product drawn from one or more of the profile saved in the at least one database in association with the computer server or computer network and the primary software application. This product interface will typically have identifying information such as the details in relation to the particular item, a unique reference number, the history of the particular item and/or a history action button, the seller details and usually, one or more images of the product which have been added to the particular product profile by a user within the system.

If the user selects the history action button on the particular product interface, a new history interface is typically produced and displayed on the display of the personal computing device. The history interface preferably shows a list of transactions relating to that particular product. Additional information in relation to the product and/or the transactions relating to that product may be included. This additional information may include dates of transaction, values for the transaction, the condition of the item at any one or more transaction times and/or an image of the product at different times to allow the user to track the history of the particular product over time using the information available within the system of the present invention. Other information may be available as well such as the Catalogue value over years, and Traded values and location.

The product interface will also normally contain a condition report and/or condition action button. Selection of the preferred condition action button may have different outcomes depending upon the category of the user. If the user selects the condition action button from the particular product interface, then if the user is categorised as a collector or purchaser, an "add to collection" interface is typically produced and displayed and if the user is categorised as a seller then an "add to inventory" interface is produced and displayed on the display of the personal computing device.

The "add to collection" interface will typically include salient information about the particular product such as the unique reference or identification number, the serial number of the product if available, the purchase price, the condition and any other identifying or useful information and also preferably allows the user to capture one or more image of the product using the image capture device of the collector's personal computing device. The image capture device will typically be actuated by an action button provided on the interface. There may be a view or review button to allow the user to check that the image(s) is appropriate. One or more text entry fields will preferably be provided to allow a user to enter information into this interface to be associated with the product profile which is preferably created and saved in association with the particular user profile. The interface will also preferably include a "cancel" and a "purchased" button. The "purchased" button will typically add the information entered into the interface to a database profile record which is uploaded to the primary software application and saved against the particular user profile.

The "add to inventory" interface will typically include salient information about the particular product such as the unique reference or identification number, the serial number of the product if available, the current or anticipated or desired purchase price and/or currency, the condition and any other identifying or useful information and also preferably allows the user to capture one or more image of the product using the image capture device of the seller's personal computing device. The image capture device will typically be actuated by an action button provided on the interface. There may be a view or review button to allow the user to check that the image(s) is appropriate. One or more text entry fields will preferably be provided to allow a user to enter information into this interface to be associated with the product profile which is preferably created and saved in association with the particular user profile. The interface will also preferably include a "cancel" and a

"purchased" button. The "purchased" button will typically mark the product profile appropriately in a database profile record present in the seller's user profile and update this information to the primary software application and saved against the particular user profile. From the product interface, if the user selects the "view" button, this will typically generate the views interface. The views interface will typically provide the ability for the user to move around within the system and to change the information that is being viewed and/or change the portion of the system that the user is accessing. It is particularly preferred that the views interface has a number of action buttons leading to different activities within the system. For example, according to a preferred embodiment, the views interface will typically have a catalogue action button, a global data action button and items action button (leading to a collection interface or on an inventory interface depending upon the categorisation of the user within the system), a shops and valuations action button a notification actions button and cancel action button. Selection of one of the action buttons will typically generate and display an interface according to the action button which is selected. For example, if the user clicks the catalogue button, then the system will generate and display the catalogue interface as discussed above. If the user clicks the items button, the system will generate and display a collection interface if the user is categorised as a collector or purchaser or an inventory interface if the user is categorised as a seller (if the user is categorised as both, then a selection will generally be required). If the user is categorised as a collector or purchaser and they click the items button then the system will generate and display a collection interface. The collection interface will typically include a sort/filter button as described above. A views button will also typically be provided which allows a return to the views interface. A category button will typically be provided which allows searching on the part of the user and allows the user to drill down as described above. Again, a text entry field will normally be provided for the entry of text in order to control the search functionality, as described above. The collection interface will typically be provided with a footer area which includes a number of action buttons but typically an items action button, a wish list action button and a values action button. The collection interface will also typically allow a collector or purchaser to identify an item desired for purchase. The information is typically provided to the primary software application which mines the one or more databases associated therewith in order to locate a desired item and the resultant information is delivered to the personal computing device. In this way, the user can add items to their wish list and be notified as to the availability of the item as the item becomes available from a seller within the system. The items button allows the definition of the item and the addition to the wish list. The values action button allows a user to review the valuation information in relation to an item or similar items in order to ascertain the value of a particular item based on real time information available within the system based on information available to the system from historical transaction and/or from other sources.

If the user is categorised as a seller and they click the items button then the system will generate and display an inventory interface. The inventory interface will typically include a sort/filter button as described above. A views button will also typically be provided which allows a return to the views interface. A category button will typically be provided which allows searching on the part of the user and allows the user to drill down as described above. Again, a text entry field will normally be provided for the entry of text. The major difference between the collection interface and the inventory interface is the use of the input portions of the collection interface is used to identify items that a collector or purchaser desires and the use of the input portions of the inventory interface is used by the seller to add items to their inventory to identify them as being available for sale. The inventory interface will typically be provided with a footer area which includes a number of action buttons but typically an items action button, and values action button. The inventory interface will also typically allow a seller to identify an item available for sale. The information is typically provided to the primary software application which not only identifies the item has been available for sale but also mines the wish lists of the various collectors/purchasers in order to notify the collectors/purchasers of the availability of a desired item and a resultant notification is delivered to the personal computing device of the collector/purchaser in real time. In this way, the user can add items to their inventory for sale list and collectors/purchasers can be notified as to the availability of the item as the item becomes available from a seller within the system. The items button allows the definition of the item and the addition to the available of sale list. The values action button allows a seller to review the valuation information in relation to an item or similar items in order to ascertain the value of a particular item based on real time information available within the system based on information available to the system from historical transaction and/or from other sources.

Selection of a particular item will typically allow a user to view/interact with the particular product record in a manner depending upon the categorisation of the user. For example, selection of a particular item will allow a collector/purchaser to add that item to their collection which will populate the information relating to the item more particular product into the user profile as an item which is now owned by that user. Selection of a particular item will allow a seller to mark an item is sold and remove it from the sellers inventory listing.

Importantly, when an item is sold within the framework of the system of the present invention, information relating to the sale is used to form a database of valuation data which is then accessible by members of the system. Typically, both collectors and sellers have access to this value information. The value information is updated in real time as transactions are finalised. Value information may be provided from other sources for use within the system but preferably, the value information is based upon information from within the system. If a user clicks the global data action button from the views interface, again, the interface generated and displayed as a result depends upon the characterisation of the user. If the user is a collector/purchaser, then the interface will typically be a map interface showing the number of collected items within a particular location. If the user is a seller, then the interface will typically be a map interface showing the number of collectors within a particular location. Other information may be provided in addition to that described above allowing collectors and sellers to navigate the map interface and populate different information in an overlay on the map interface. The data can be filtered and then shown on the map. The location of the map can be changed through search functionality. The global data interface will typically have a views button provided which will turn the user to the views interface. The global data interface will also typically have a footer which includes a "collectors" button a collections button and a data button. The data button will typically allow the refinement of the particular statistics available on the map interface, whereas the collector's button and the collections button will switch between the map interfaces with collections or collectors shown thereon. It is preferred that the global data page contains information regardless of user level or type, but the information seen is separated from user identification - a user cannot identify another user/location from an item in collection, but all users can see that there is a collector, and there is an item in collection and its listed condition.

If the user clicks the shops and valuations button from the views interface, an interface identifying sellers is typically generated and displayed for the user. This allows selection of particular shops and/or sellers in order to allow a user to view the items available for sale or the shops that are willing to provide valuation information.

The Views interface is provided with a footer including a browse button and a valuation button. Clicking the browse button allows a user to search using the search functionality as described above. Clicking the valuation button provides access to the valuation functionality of the system. This triggers generation and display of a valuation interface that allows input of information about a product (or use of a product profile from a collector/purchasers collection or wishlist or from a seller's inventory) in order to compare the details of a product to identify a valuation based on the historical transactions recorded in the system records. The comparison will normally mine the one or more databases associated with the system for transactions for the same or similar products and then compile valuation information based on transactions related to that same or similar products. The valuation information can use any recognised valuation technique.

The user can also set up notifications within the system to allow a user to be notified of items for sale or for purchase within the system. A collector can create a notification by using an image capture device on their personal competing device and/or text entry in a notifications interface. A seller can do the same. Once a notification is created, it is typically uploaded to the primary software application which is then preferably responsible for real-time scanning of the information in the at least one database in order to identify when an item is posted for sale or for purchase and identify this product to the user based on entry of information by the user about the item for which the notification is signed. The notifications are typically issued by the primary software application via a communications network to the secondary software application operating on a personal computing device. The notification will typically include identification of the product and an identification of the collector desiring the item or seller selling the item the notification will also typically allow contact by the recipient of the notification with the user that currently has the item in inventory, preferably directly from the notification which is issued electronically and therefore will preferably include at least one electronic link in order to allow the recipient of the notification to negotiate and close a sale using the system. Importantly, all of the data about items listed for sale as well as items bought and sold will preferably be stored in the at least one database to allow the system to use that available information to provide a valuation base about items and their market value in real time accessible to collectors and/or sellers.

Other possible functionality includes: a) An option to release application in multiple versions (for example, an application for Free

Users, an application for sellers or shops, and an application for collectors);

b) Free Users see 'Offers' from shops rather than Catalogue Valuations which is

preferably a subscription only portion;

c) Subscribed Users can list items with 'Acceptable Offer' Value for sale;

d) Items Listed can also contain 'Notes' (eg. Owner Lists an item and adds either Private 'Comment' on Item or Public 'Comment' to remind himself or notify others/or both comments);

e) Application can 'bulk upload' items through standard formats (eg. 'csv' format); and f) An evaluator can submit 'notification to change' details of an item if user has entered item incorrectly, that the user must accept or decline.

The system will typically be a subscription system and the subscription levels may include, but not limited to 'Amateur' (Free), 'Collector' (Cheapest), 'Investor' (Medium), 'Business' (Dearest).

'Business' subscription may, if they choose, allow individual items or collections to be digitally submitted by lower level subscribers for evaluation. Valuation modifications would be submitted by the evaluator in a notification to the user that the user either authorises the changes or declines the changes.

Users can manually enter items collected, submitted with Image, Condition, ID number (if present). Item entry is simplified for users by listing all reference items in that genre in a 'Catalogue' view, which a user can sort & filter, (Free users will normally not see the 'Collection Value' of the item) selecting the Catalogue Reference will cause the application to ask for required details of the collected item, (businesses may input multiple items in 1 entry - condition may be missed or marked as 'various'). Businesses will normally be asked to enter in an initial value for item references that Free users may expect as an offer on an item (not catalogue value, and not specific, but 'ball park' type figure) which free users can see, and be able to select the desired 'offer' to engage contact with the desired shop to calculate a more accurate figure. The Global Data Page/View shows Items, Quantities and Locations and location and quantity of collectors but does not tie them together (a user may see that an Item is collected, and a user may see that there are items collected in an area, but the users cannot tell where that specific item is collected or who has it in collection). Paying users can browse shops and associated inventory, then select items to contact shop through message system in application. Paying users can print out copies of individual items, multiple items or entire collection.

Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention. The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

Figure 1A is a schematic view of a system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure IB is a block diagram of a computer server of Figure 1 A, specially programmed according to preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1C is a block diagram of a portable computational device of Figure 1 A that is specially programmed according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figures 2a to 2c comprise a schematic view of the relationships between different interfaces generated and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a schematic view of an example sign in interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a schematic view of a subscriber interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a schematic view of a shop details interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 is a schematic view of a catalogue interface according to a preferred embodiment present invention.

Figure 7 is a schematic view of a sort interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 8 is a schematic view of a reference interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a history interface according to a preferred

embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a schematic view of an add item to collection interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of an ad item to inventory interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 12 is a schematic view of an options interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 13 is a schematic view of a collection interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14 is a schematic view of a remove item from collection interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 is a schematic view of an inventory interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 is a schematic view of a remove item from inventory interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 17 is a schematic view of a map view interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 is a schematic view of a statistics interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 19 is a schematic view of a browse shops interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 20 is a schematic view of a shops offering evaluations view according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 21 is a schematic view of a browse shops according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 22 is a schematic view of a wish list item located interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23 is a schematic view of a client selling items view according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 24 is a schematic view of an email message interface according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, a system for realtime valuation and asset availability monitoring is provided.

The system of the preferred embodiment includes at least one computer server or computer network operating a primary software application associated with at least one database of user profiles and at least one database of items with associated trading value calculated in real time and based at least partially on finalised trades within the system, at least one first person with a personal computing device having an image capture device and data transmission capability and operating a secondary software application to create an electronic first person message relating to items desired for purchase, the at least one first person forwarding the electronic first person message to the at least one computer server or computer network operating a primary software application over an electronic data transmission network accessible through at least the secondary software application operating on the at least one first person's personal computing device, at least one second person with a personal computing device having an image display and capture device and data transmission capability and operating a secondary software application to allow the at least one second person view the first person message on the second person's personal computing device, the second person maintaining a list of items available for purchase via the secondary software application using the image display and capture device of the second person's personal computing device wherein the at least one second person is able to electronically list items available for sale by creating an electronic item description which updates the at least one database of items in real time and the first person is able to view the electronic item description of items for sale, and agreeable at least one first and at least one second persons can transact a trade for one or more items based on the electronic item description via the at least one computer server or computer network operating a primary software application.

The present invention relates to an electronically implemented system to collate the trading values and availability of collectables from existing valuations, shop offers and registered trades in real time allowing sellers to list items for sale, prospective purchasers to locate items desired for purchase and allow sellers and purchasers to conduct the transaction remotely whilst providing a real time valuation mechanism based at least partially on finalised trades within the system.

Referring now to Figure 1 A, in a preferred embodiment a system of the present invention is based around a first person 112a utilising a personal computing device such as a smartphone 112, computer, tablet computer 111 or any other personal computing device to upload details about items that they desire to add to their collection and then a second person 111a who also has a personal computing device in the form of tablet computer 111 or any other personal computing device to upload details about items that they are willing to sell from their collection in order for buyers to connect with sellers, with all parties to the system having access to real time valuation information relating to the items maintained on a central server 110 and accessible over the internet or cloud 113 so that all parties are on a level playing field in any ensuing transaction which may also take place through the system.

As illustrated in Figure 1A, the hardware of the system of the preferred embodiment includes a computer server 110. Figure IB comprises a block diagram of the server 110.

The server 110 includes a main board 134 which includes circuitry for powering and interfacing to at least one onboard central processing unit or "processor" or "microprocessor" 135. The at least one onboard processor 135 may comprise two or more discrete processors or processors with multiple processing cores. The main board 134 acts as an interface between CPUs 135 and secondary memory 147.

The secondary memory 147 which is typically implemented by a magnetic or solid state data drive and which stores a server operating system, for example Microsoft Windows Server, Linux Ubuntu Server are two examples of such an operating system. The main board 134 also communicates with random access memory 141 and read only memory 143. The ROM 143 typically stores instructions for a Basic Input Output System (BIOS) which the CPUs 135 accesses upon start up and which prepares the CPUs 135 for loading of the operating system 139 from secondary memory 147.

The main board 134 will typically include a communications adapter, for example a LAN adaptor 153 that places the computer server 110 in data communication with a computer network such as the Internet 113 via a router or other suitable network interface device.

The server 110 may include a human-to-machine interface (HMI) in the form of keyboard 149, mouse 121 and display 148 which enables an administrator to directly enter commands, read output, and generally interact with the server 110 as the CPUs 135 execute various operating system and application software instructions. Alternatively, and more commonly, the administrator logs into the server 110 remotely over the Internet 113 or another data network and performs administrative tasks remotely using a local terminal as the HMI.

The secondary storage 147 also includes a server- side software product 40 comprised of machine executable instructions 59 (which may be provided on a CD/DVD or other media 157) that comprises an Asset & Valuation program according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The software product 40 implements a user database 142a and an item database 142b, both of which are stored in the secondary storage 147. During operation of the server 110 the server CPU(s) 135 loads the operating system 139 and then loads the server-side software 140. It will be realised that the exemplary computer server 110 that is illustrated in Figure IB comprises a discrete hardware machine that is suitably programmed. In other embodiments of the invention the server may be implemented by a virtual machine, e.g. a "cloud server" that uses shared hardware resources of a "server farm" as required.

The User database 142a and the Item database 142b store information relating to items within the system and particularly valuation information based on historical transactions within the system occurring over the Internet 113.

The computer server 110 has access to communications pathways allowing communication over a data network such as the internet 113 with a plurality of personal computing devices such as tablets 111 and smartphones 112, each having memory for storing instructions, a processor for implementing instructions and a display upon which one or more interfaces are electronically generated and displayed based on instructions issued from the computer server 110.

The system of the preferred embodiment is implemented through instructions comprising the software product 140 of the server 110 which when followed, generate one or more interfaces, illustrated herein as interfaces 3 to 24) on a tablet 111 or smartphone 112 allowing a user, whether a collector/purchaser and/or a seller to interact with the system and each other via the system. The instructions will normally be sent from the system administrator server 110 via the internet 113 to a user's tablet 111 or smartphone 112 and will then be implemented by the processor on the tablet 111 or smartphone 112 in order to generate and update an interface in real time on the display of the tablet 111 or smartphone 12, according to the user's interaction with the interface.

Many of these tablets 111 or smartphones 12 have touchscreens for display allowing the user to directly interact with the touch screen in order to interact with the interface. One or more "buttons" are provided on the interface to allow the user to interact with the tablet 111 or smartphone 112 and through the tablet 111 or smartphone 12, to interact with the system. For example, Figure 1C is a block diagram of a portable computational device such as the smartphone 112 or tablet 111 of Figure 1 for use in the implementation of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The smartphone 112 includes a microprocessor 203 that accesses an electronic memory 205. The electronic memory 205 includes an operating system 208 such as the Android operating system or the Apple iOS operating system, for example, for execution by the microprocessor 203. The electronic memory 205 also includes a Valuation & Asset application software product or "App" 206 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The App 206 includes instructions that are executable by the microprocessor 203 in order for the smartphone 112 to implement a method that will be described.

The microprocessor 203 is in data communication with a plurality of peripheral assemblies 209 to 223, as indicated in Figure 1C, via a data bus 207. Consequently, the smartphone 112 is able to establish voice and data communication with a voice and/or data communications network 113 via WAN/WLAN assembly 223 and radio frequency antenna 229. In use the device 112 establishes data communication with the remote server 110 that is programmed to assist in implementing a valuation and asset availability monitoring method according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

User interfaces generated on touchscreen 214 will typically be updated substantially in real time according to the rules or instructions which are issued by the computer server 110 in conjunction with the accessible database(s) 142a, 142b. The generated interface will also typically be updated substantially in real time according to interactions by the user(s) with the system.

Preferably, access to the system for both the first person 112a and the second person 111a will be via the personal computing devices 112 and 11. The secondary software application 206 for each user may be the same application and the functionality and use of the software application determined by the category of the user which is preferably determined at login according to the user's unique login information. As mentioned above, the personal computing device can be any type however, it will typically be a smart phone 112, computer tablet 111 or other portable device having at least one communication pathway in order to communicate with the computer server or computer network operating the primary software application. The personal computing device preferred for use in the present invention is illustrated in Figure 1C and as previously mentioned it includes a processor with on-board memory, a display, at least one input apparatus, at least one output apparatus (such as audio output, directly via speakers or similar or indirectly via a port or similar allowing the connection of speakers, visual output or similar), and access to at least one communication pathway to transmit data between system components. Normally, the display will preferably be a touchscreen as many personal computing devices currently available have this feature. The advantages of the touchscreen include allowing a larger display and also allowing the display to function as a part of or as, the input apparatus. The display will also function as an image capture and display device. These types of devices also usually have at least one camera allowing image capture and the display will generate and display interfaces based on user interaction with the system utilising information stored in the at least one databases associated with the at least one computer server or computer network operating the primary software application. Preferably, the software operating on the hardware of the system of the present invention includes a primary software application (e.g. software 140) operating on the computer server 110 or computer network. Preferably, a secondary software component (e.g. software App 206) is provided at the personal computing device level on each of the user personal computing devices in order to interact with the primary software application. The primary software application is preferably the "engine" of the system and method, responsible for receiving the various uploads created or captured by a user, record them and update the system in real time to reflect changes made.

The system includes a secondary software application 6 designed to operate on smartphones, tablet computers and another mobile device that each buyer and seller will require in order to access the Internet data transmission. The software application will preferably be available through an application distribution platform, which is typically operated by the owner of the mobile operating system, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play, Windows Phone Store and BlackBerry App World. The application of the present invention will normally be downloaded from the application distribution platform to a target mobile device.

Preferably, the secondary software application 206 is provided to operate on a personal computing device, e.g. smartphone 112 with appropriate connections through the personal computing device to the computer server or computer network operating a primary software application in order to gain additional information to that present on the personal computing device. The additional information may be obtained from the computer server or computer network and/or by push notification from the computer server or computer network to the personal computing device and/or upon request from the personal computing device.

The secondary software application 206 will preferably allow communication with the primary software application 140 operating on the computer server 110 or computer network. Preferably, the primary software program 140 operating on the computer server 110 or computer network will be more advanced and be responsible for the bulk of the processing with the secondary software application App 206 operating on the smartphones 112 tablet computers 111 and another mobile device typically smaller and with less processing power, optimised to send and receive instructions and requests and leaves the operations requiring larger processing power to the primary software program operating on the computer server or computer network. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention will preferably have a number of parties associated with the system, with a party categorised into one or more general user types. The preferred types of parties associated with the system include a system

administrator (which can be one or more people, and/or machines in one or more locations), sellers/listers who offer or list items for sale or trade, and prospective purchasers or collectors (later purchasers if they actually buy or trader with a seller/lister) who are people that have items that they wish to add to their collections and use the system of the present invention to locate such items for sale and/or to actually purchase or trade for them.

Users will normally download the software application to their personal computing device. The download of the software application will normally include appropriate instructions to be stored in the memory of the personal computing device in order to create and maintain links and associations with the computer server or computer network in order to

communicate with one or more databases associated therewith.

The personal computing device normally provides access to one or more communications pathways in order to communicate with the computer server or computer network in order to access the system. Normally, the computer server or computer network will be associated with or access one or more databases containing information about the users such that information regarding the identity of any one or more of these parties may be communicated by the personal computing device or the software application to ensure that the personal computing device requesting data from the computer server or computer network or to which data is to be sent or from which information is received, is a personal computing device of an authorised user of the system. This functionality is normally accomplished through a login facility in which the user uses a personal computing device to log into the system.

The login process may use login details that the user has developed for another application or use. For example, the user may use a Facebook or Twitter account login or similar or alternatively login details for an email system such as Gmail or Hotmail in order to access the system of the present invention. Normally, details of the user login will be stored in a corresponding user profile in at least one user database and as a login request is received, the computer server or computer network will typically ensure that the login details supplied match those of a user before allowing access to the system and any databases on the system.

Normally, a login prompt is produced and displayed as a displayed image or interface on the display of the personal computing device and including at least one action button. This will normally allow input or selection of the desired login information into an input template and which also prompts input of the login information provided by action in the form of a submission to the computer server or computer network. This will normally be a two-part process in which the user will normally select the desired login type if permitted followed by entry of the user particular identification information and password followed by the submission step. Upon submission, the entered details will be sent to the primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network for authorisation.

Therefore, the personal computing device is typically used to create a login request which is then sent via a communications pathway to the computer server or computer network whereupon the system of the present invention checks the user database(s) for a match and allows access to the system if the match occurs and denies access to the system if a match does not occur.

The at least one input apparatus used to input information into the personal computing device therefore will typically be formed or displayed on the display of the personal computing device as required. The at least one input apparatus will normally take the form of a virtual keyboard including letters of the alphabet, numbers and/or symbols as well as one or more action icons to allow a user to implement action on the personal computing device.

Typically, a portion of the image displayed on the display of the personal computing device will be provided as visual feedback reflecting the input provided by the user of the personal computing device.

Other types of input apparatus are typically also present including at least one voice input apparatus, typically a microphone or similar device or a biometric device could be used.

The method of the present invention is preferably achieved by computer hardware operating software containing instructions in association with one or more communications pathways between a variety of pieces of computer hardware operating software compliant with the system, in order to achieve the method.

The computer hardware included in the system of the present invention typically includes a computer server or computer network 110 operating the primary software application which is operated or maintained by a system administrator and which electronically stores information in relation to the users of the system and also receives uploads, updates the one or more databases in real time and maintains the valuation information in real-time. The hardware also preferably includes or has access to a communication network in order to send/receive requests from users to and from the computer server or computer network.

The respective personal computing devices will preferably be the primary points of access to the system of the present invention by the users of the system and normally interaction with the primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network will occur using the personal computing devices.

The computer server or computer network will normally include a processor with memory operating instructions and a number of databases stored in electronic form. The databases will typically include at least one user database containing a unique user profile for each user of the system and at least one database of items may be maintained separately from the at least one user database or alternatively, the information relating to the items may be stored in or associated with the respective user profiles. It is anticipated that the at least one user database can be provided as a single database, with the designation of a user as being either a buyer or seller (or both) dependent upon the use of the system. The system of the present invention will normally be implemented through instructions which when followed, generate one or more interfaces on a personal computing device. The instructions will normally be sent from the primary software application on the computer server or computer network to a user's personal computing device and which will then be followed in order to generate an interface in real time and update the interface according to the user's interaction with the system. An example of the interfaces that are generated on the LCD screen 211 and touchscreen interface 214 of the smartphone 112 are set out as items 3 to 24 in Figures 3 to 24. The operational relationship between the interfaces 3 to 24 is illustrated in Figures 2A to 2C. The item number for each interface corresponds to the figure number in which the interface is shown. E.g. the exemplary interfaces which are item numbered 3 to 24 are respectively illustrated in Figures 3 to 24.

The generated interface(s) will typically be updated substantially in real time according to the rules or instructions which are issued by the primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network and the at least one user database. The generated interface will also typically be updated substantially in real time according to interactions by the user(s) with the system.

Typically, the generated interface will be used to login to the system using unique login information or details. Normally this will be the case regardless of what type of user is logging into the system. The classification of the user as a buyer or seller may be made according to the login details or by the user, after login. The system will preferably allow a user to set up a profile designating themselves as a buyer, seller or both and this setup (or any change thereto) is preferably subject to approval by the system administrator.

As mentioned above, a user may login to a third-party system such as a social media network and then access the system of the present invention by interacting or selecting a link which may be displayed on the social media network site. For example, one particularly preferred mechanism for entry to the system of the present invention is through Facebook and particularly, through a link or share which appears on a user's newsfeed. The link will typically be associated with explanatory text or material which explains the concept of the system and because the user is interested, the user will normally, having already logged into Facebook, simply select the link and be redirected to the generated interface of the system of the present invention. The log in interface may give an additional option of using the system for free. If this selection is made by a user, generally no data is saved about the user and the user will generally only have limited functionality and access to information. The limits may be a time limit or an accessibility limit. Further, the login interface may allow new users to subscribe to access to the system. Upon logging by an existing user, the system of the present invention will preferably generate and display an interface on the personal computer device according to the user category as either a buyer or a seller. A user who is a member of both categories may be prompted to choose their next action. Generally, upon opening the software application operating on the personal computing device, a user will be presented with a generated and displayed interface such as that illustrated in Figure 3 prompting the user to either login if they are an existing user, subscribe if they are a new user or use the application for free through the provision of appropriate action "buttons". The function of the various elements of the Sign In screen of Figure 3 are described in Table 1.

Table 1 -Components of the Login Interface of Figure 3

If the user is a new user and they choose to subscribe, the user will be presented with a generated and displayed interface such as that illustrated in Figure 4 prompting entry of basic identifying information about themselves for the preparation of a unique user profile to be stored in association with the at least one primary software application operating on the computer server or computer network. The basic identifying information will normally include an email address, password (with verification or double entry step), and user location information such as the city, country and/or postcode. The user may also be prompted to select the user category either as a collector/purchaser or a seller.

Table 2 describes the various components of the Subscribe interface that is illustrated in Figure 4.

Table 2 - Description of the Components of the Subscribe Interface of Figure 4

Normally, access to the system will be on a subscription basis with payment of a

corresponding subscription fee. The subscription fee is preferably different for different user categories as illustrated in Figure 4. Normally, selection of the collector/purchaser category allows a user to access the valuation information and purchase items whereas selection as a seller or "Shop" will typically give access to valuation information, the right to sell items but also gives the same access as a collector/purchaser allowing a seller to both sell and purchase items using system. If the user selects the seller or "Shop" category, the system may generate and display an interface such as that illustrated in Figure 5 requesting further information from the user such as contact details, one or more contact telephone numbers, one or more addresses such as a physical address and/or a postal address.

If the user selects the seller category, the user will also be able to identify whether they are willing to provide valuations in relation to particular items listed. This will typically be in the form of a binary choice such as yes or no with a selection of one or the other required also as illustrated in Figure 5.

Table 3 describes the various components of the interface that is illustrated in Figure 5.

Table 3 - Description of the Components of the Shop Details Interface of Figure 5

If the user selects the seller category, the user will typically also be prompted to design an advertisement to be provided to collectors or purchases. The advertisement may include one or more images and/or text. Preferably, the user will have the ability to design the advertisement within the secondary software application operating on their personal computing device and/or design the advertisement externally and upload an electronic file containing the advertisement into the software application (either secondary or primary) preferably the secondary software application which then adds the advertisement to the user profile stored in association with the primary software application.

Regardless of whether the user chooses to subscribe as a collector/purchaser or as a seller, a subscription fee will typically require payment in order to access the system. Once the entry of information has been completed, the system will typically generate and display an additional subscription interface in order that the user can enter payment details. This may be an automatic step upon entry of the required details or an additional action from the user may be required such as clicking a "submit" button or a "proceed to payments" button provided on an interface generated and displayed on the personal computing device. There are a number of payment mechanisms and facilities which are conventionally available in order to process payments such as this in an online environment in any one of these mechanisms may be used according to the system of the present invention.

If the user is an existing user and chooses to login to the system, or chooses to use a system for free, or once the subscription has been completed, a user will typically be granted access to the system and one of two main interfaces will be generated and displayed on the personal computing device. The two main interfaces are typically a "catalogue" interface identifying one or more particular products and/or references such as that illustrated in Figure 6 and a "views" interface which allows a user to select from a number of options about the action that they wish to take such as that illustrated in Figure 12.

Typically, a user can move from the catalogue interface (Figure 6) to the views interface (Figure 12) easily and an action button for the respective interface is preferably provided on the other of the two interfaces. An existing user is normally presented with the catalogue interface initially.

As illustrated in Figure 6, the catalogue interface preferably includes a search functionality with one or more data entry fields and the ability to "filter" and/or "sort" results through the provision of action buttons. The interface also includes a change "view" action button allowing movement to the "views" interface. The catalogue interface allows a user to search by location and/or collectable type with a number of subcategories available to allow a user to refine the search parameters. The interface will typically allow entry of keywords into the data entry fields. The search functionality may allow searching for all of the words entered, any of the words entered, the exact words entered in order in any order. The user is also preferably given the ability to exclude words from a search. The user additionally preferably has the ability to search by price, buying format, condition, postage or collection options as well is searching directly on sellers. The user can browse a sellers store or list of available collectibles held in a particular seller's inventory.

The catalogue interface may populate with one or more locations allowing the user to browse availability of items in those particular locations. The user may be able to set locations as favourite locations. If the user clicks the "sort" action button, a new interface will typically be produced and generated on the display of the personal computing device.

Table 4 describes the various components of the interface of Figure 6.

Table 4 - Description of the Components of the Shop Details Interface of Figure 6

The sort interface, such as that illustrated in Figure 7, will typically allow a user to sort and/or filter results. The sort functionality may relate to location but will preferably also allow the selection of a particular parameter to allow a user to drill down to identify collectibles within the system of the present invention. If a user does a search and more than one matching product is returned, then the user can select a particular product from the list of matching search results. The user can change the order of the list based on various selections made by the user.

This interface will also typically include a "back" button. Table 5 sets out further information regarding the components of the Sort Interface of Figure 7.

Table 5 - Description of the Components of the Sort Interface of Figure 7

If the user chooses a particular item or product, a product interface such as that illustrated in Figure 8, may be produced and generated on the display of the personal computing device containing unique information about that particular product drawn from one or more of the profile saved in the at least one database in association with the computer server or computer network and the primary software application. This product interface will typically have identifying information such as the details in relation to the particular item, a unique reference number, the history of the particular item and/or a history action button, the seller details and usually, one or more images of the product which have been added to the particular product profile by a user within the system. Table 6 sets out further information regarding the components of the product interface of Figure 8.

Table 6 - Description of the Components of the Product (Reference View) Interface of

Figure 8

If the user selects the history action button on the particular product interface, a new history interface such as that illustrated in Figure 9 is typically produced and displayed on the display of the personal computing device. The history interface preferably shows a list of transactions relating to that particular product. Additional information in relation to the product and/or the transactions relating to that product may be included. This additional information may include dates of transaction, values for the transaction, the condition of the item at any one or more transaction times and/or an image of the product at different times to allow the user to track the history of the particular product over time using the information available within the system of the present invention.

The product interface will also normally contain a condition report and/or condition action button. Selection of the preferred condition action button may have different outcomes depending upon the category of the user.

If the user selects the condition action button from the particular product interface, then if the user is categorised as a collector or purchaser, an "add to collection" interface is typically produced and displayed and if the user is categorised as a seller then an "add to inventory" interface is produced and displayed on the display of the personal computing device.

Table 7 describes the functions of various components of the History View interface of Figure 9.

Table 7 - Description of the Components of the History View Interface of Figure 9 The "add to collection" interface such as that illustrated in Figure 10 will typically include salient information about the particular product such as the unique reference or identification number, the serial number of the product if available, the purchase price, the condition and any other identifying or useful information and also preferably allows the user to capture one or more image of the product using the image capture device of the collector's personal computing device. The image capture device will typically be actuated by an action button provided on the interface. There may be a view or review button to allow the user to check that the image(s) is appropriate. One or more text entry fields will preferably be provided to allow a user to enter information into this interface to be associated with the product profile which is preferably created and saved in association with the particular user profile. The interface will also preferably include a "cancel" and a "purchased" button. The "purchased" button will typically add the information entered into the interface to a database profile record which is uploaded to the primary software application and saved against the particular user profile.

Table 8 sets out further information about the function of the components of the Add to Collection interface of Figure 10.

Table 8 - Description of the Components of the Collection Add Screen Interface of Figure 10

The "Inventory Add" interface such as that illustrated in Figure 11 will typically include salient information about the particular product such as the unique reference or identification number, the serial number of the product if available, the current or anticipated or desired purchase price and/or currency, the condition and any other identifying or useful information and also preferably allows the user to capture one or more image of the product using the image capture device of the seller' s personal computing device. The image capture device will typically be actuated by an action button provided on the interface. There may be a view or review button to allow the user to check that the image(s) is appropriate. One or more text entry fields will preferably be provided to allow a user to enter information into this interface to be associated with the product profile which is preferably created and saved in association with the particular user profile. The interface will also preferably include a "cancel" and a "purchased" button. The "purchased" button will typically mark the product profile appropriately in a database profile record present in the seller's user profile and update this information to the primary software application and saved against the particular user profile. Table 9 sets out further information about the function of the components of the Inventory Add interface of Figure 11.

Table 9 - Description of the Components of the Inventory Add Screen Interface of Figure 11 From the product interface, if the user selects the "view" button, this will typically generate the views interface such as that illustrated in Figure 12. The views interface will typically provide the ability for the user to move around within the system and to change the information that is being viewed and/or change the portion of the system that the user is accessing. It is particularly preferred that the views interface has a number of action buttons leading to different activities within the system. For example, according to a preferred embodiment, the views interface will typically have a catalogue action button, a global data action button and items action button (leading to a collection interface or on an inventory interface depending upon the categorisation of the user within the system), a shops and valuations action button a notification actions button and cancel action button. Selection of one of the action buttons will typically generate and display an interface according to the action button which is selected. Table 10 further describes various components of the Views Interface of Figure 12.

Table 10 - Components of the Views Interface of Figure 12.

For example, if the user clicks the catalogue button, then the system will generate and display the catalogue interface as discussed above and illustrated in Figure 6. If the user clicks the items button, the system will generate and display a collection interface such as that illustrated in Figure 13 if the user is categorised as a collector or purchaser or an inventory interface if the user is categorised as a seller or shop (if the user is categorised as both, then a selection will generally be required). If the user is categorised as a collector or purchaser and they click the items button then the system will generate and display a collection interface such as that illustrated in Figure 13. The collection interface will typically include a sort/filter button as described above. A views button will also typically be provided which allows a return to the views interface. A category button will typically be provided which allows searching on the part of the user and allows the user to drill down as described above. Again, a text entry field will normally be provided for the entry of text in order to control the search functionality, as described above. The collection interface will typically be provided with a footer area which includes a number of action buttons but typically an items action button, a wish list action button and a values action button. The collection interface will also typically allow a collector or purchaser to identify an item desired for purchase. The information is typically provided to the primary software application which mines the one or more databases associated therewith in order to locate a desired item and the resultant information is delivered to the personal computing device. In this way, the user can add items to their wish list and be notified as to the availability of the item as the item becomes available from a seller within the system. The items button allows the definition of the item and the addition to the wish list. The values action button allows a user to review the valuation information in relation to an item or similar items in order to ascertain the value of a particular item based on real time information available within the system based on information available to the system from historical transaction and/or from other sources.

Table 11 sets out further information regarding various components of the Collection Interface of Figure 13.

Table 11 - Components of the Collection Interface of Figure 13.

If the collector sells an item, the system will typically will generate and display a Remove Item from Collection interface such as that illustrated in Figure 14 allowing a collector to mark an item as sold and remove it from the collector's collection. Table 12 sets out further information regarding the components of the Remove Item from Collection interface of Figure 14.

Table 12 - Components of the Remove Item from Collection Interface of Figure 14.

If the user is categorised as a seller and they click the items button then the system will generate and display an inventory interface such as that illustrated in Figure 15. The inventory interface will typically include a sort/filter button as described above. A views button will also typically be provided which allows a return to the views interface. A category button will typically be provided which allows searching on the part of the user and allows the user to drill down as described above. Again, a text entry field will normally be provided for the entry of text. The major difference between the collection interface and the inventory interface is the use of the input portions of the collection interface is used to identify items that a collector or purchaser desires and the use of the input portions of the inventory interface is used by the seller to add items to their inventory to identify them as being available for sale. The inventory interface will typically be provided with a footer area which includes a number of action buttons but typically an items action button, and values action button. The inventory interface will also typically allow a seller to identify an item available for sale. The information is typically provided to the primary software application which not only identifies the item has been available for sale but also mines the wish lists of the various collectors/purchasers in order to notify the collectors/purchasers of the availability of a desired item and a resultant notification is delivered to the personal computing device of the collector/purchaser in real time. In this way, the user can add items to their inventory for sale list and collectors/purchasers can be notified as to the availability of the item as the item becomes available from a seller within the system. The items button allows the definition of the item and the addition to the available of sale list. The values action button allows a seller to review the valuation information in relation to an item or similar items in order to ascertain the value of a particular item based on real time information available within the system based on information available to the system from historical transaction and/or from other sources. Table 13 sets out further information regarding the components of the Inventory Interface of Figure 15.

Table 13 - Components of the Inventory Interface of Figure 15. If the seller sells an item, the system will typically will generate and display a Remove Item from Inventory interface such as that illustrated in Figure 16 allowing a seller to mark an item as sold and remove it from the seller' s inventory. Table 14 describes various components of the Remove Item from Inventory interface of Figure 16.

Table 14 - Components of the Remove Item from Inventory Interface of Figure 16.

Selection of a particular item will typically allow a user to view/interact with the particular product record in a manner depending upon the categorisation of the user. For example, selection of a particular item will allow a collector/purchaser to add that item to their collection which will populate the information relating to the item more particular product into the user profile as an item which is now owned by that user. Selection of a particular item will allow a seller to mark an item is sold and remove it from the sellers inventory listing.

Importantly, when an item is sold within the framework of the system of the present invention, information relating to the sale is used to form a database of valuation data which is then accessible by members of the system. Typically, both collectors and sellers have access to this value information. The value information is updated in real time as transactions are finalised. Value information may be provided from other sources for use within the system but preferably, the value information is based upon information from within the system. If a user clicks the global data action button from the views interface, a map interface such as that illustrated in Figure 17 is generated and displayed as a result with the information displayed thereon dependent upon the characterisation of the user. If the user is a collector/purchaser, then the interface will typically be a map interface showing the number of collected items within a particular location. If the user is a seller, then the interface will typically be a map interface showing the number of collectors within a particular location. Other information may be provided in addition to that described above allowing collectors and sellers to navigate the map interface and populate different information in an overlay on the map interface. The data can be filtered and then shown on the map. The location of the map can be changed through search functionality. The global data interface will typically have a views button provided which will turn the user to the views interface. The global data interface will also typically have a footer which includes a collectors button, a collections button and a data button. The data button will typically allow the refinement of the particular statistics available on the map interface whereas the collectors button and the collections button will switch between the map interfaces with collections or collectors shown thereon. Table 15 further describes various components of the Map Interface of Figure 17.

Table 15 - Components of the Map Interface of Figure 17.

Selection of the data button of the Map Interface of Figure 17 may produce and display a Statistics interface such as that illustrated in Figure 18 allowing the user to tailor the information illustrated on the interface. Table 16 further describes components of the Statistics Interface of Figure 18

Table 16 - Components of the Statistics Interface of Figure 18. If the user clicks the shops and valuations button from the views interface, an interface such as the Shops Interface illustrated in Figure 19 identifying sellers or shops is typically generated and displayed for the user. Table 17 further describes components of the Shops (Browse) Interface of Figure 19.

This allows selection of particular shops and/or sellers in order to allow a user to view the items available for sale or the shops that are willing to provide valuation information as shown on the interface illustrated in Figure 20. Table 18 sets forth further information about the components of the Shops (Valuation) Interface of Figure 20.

Table 18 - Components of the Shops (Valuation) Interface of Figure 20.

The Views interface is provided with a footer including a browse button and a valuation button. Clicking the browse button allows a user to search using the search functionality as described above and according to the example Browse interface illustrated to Figure 21. Table 19 describes the components of the Browse Interface of Figure 21.

Table 19 - Components of the Browse Interface of Figure 21.

Clicking the valuation button in the Shops (Valuation) Interface of Figure 20 provides access to the valuation functionality of the system. This triggers generation and display of a valuation interface that allows input of information about a product (or use of a product profile from a collector/purchasers collection or wish list or from a seller' s inventory) in order to compare the details of a product to identify a valuation based on the historical transactions recorded in the system records. The comparison will normally mine the one or more databases associated with the system for transactions for the same or similar products and then compile valuation information based on transactions related to that same or similar products. The valuation information can use any recognised valuation technique.

The user can also set up notifications within the system to allow a user to be notified of items for sale or for purchase within the system by selection of that option. A collector can create a notification by using an image capture device on their personal competing device and/or text entry in a notifications interface. A seller can do the same. Once a notification is created, it is typically uploaded to the primary software application which is then preferably responsible for real-time scanning of the information in the at least one database in order to identify when an item is posted for sale or for purchase and identify this product to the user based on entry of information by the user about the item for which the notification is signed. The notifications are typically issued by the primary software application via a communications network to the secondary software application operating on a personal computing device. An example of a an Item Found notification interface, is illustrated in Figure 22 for a collector. Table 20 describes various components of the Item Found notification interface that is illustrated in Figure 22.

Table 20 - Components of the Item Found notification Interface of Figure 22.

An example of a Sale notification interface is illustrated in Figure 23 for a seller whose client has listed an item for sale. The notification will typically include identification of the product and an identification of the collector desiring the item or seller selling the item the notification will also typically allow contact by the recipient of the notification with the user that currently has the item in inventory, preferably directly from the notification which is issued electronically and therefore will preferably include at least one electronic link in order to allow the recipient of the notification to negotiate and close a sale using the system. Table 21 further describes components of the Sale Notification Interface that is illustrated in Figure 23.

Table 21 - Components of the Sale notification Interface of Figure 23.

If the user chooses to contact the notifier, then an email interface such as that illustrated in Figure 24 is produced and displayed allowing the user to enter a message to advance and/or close the deal. Table 22 explains the functionality of the components of the Email Message interface of Figure 24.

Table 22 - Components of the Email Message Interface of Figure 24.

Importantly, all of the data about items listed for sale as well as items bought and sold will preferably be stored in the at least one database to allow the system to use that available information to provide a valuation base about items and their market value in real time accessible to collectors and/or sellers.

In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers. Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.