Virtual warehouse parts distribution system and process

Abstract

A parts distribution system and process uses a computer network, particularly the Internet, to efficiently distribute spare parts in a cost-effective manner. The system includes a plurality of buyer computers for operation by a system participant desiring to obtain one or more parts, a plurality of seller computers for operation by a system participant desiring to sell one or more parts, and at least one server computer. The buyer computers, seller computers and server computer are interconnected as a computer network. In operation, the seller computers are used to input part related data to the server computer, and the server computer uses the data to maintain a database of all available parts. The buyer computers are used to transmit part requests to the server computer, and the server computer selecting one or more parts from the database in response to the requests.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 178,779, filed Jan. 28, 2000.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates generally to the distribution of spare parts and more particularly to a system and method of using a computer network such as the Internet to facilitate spare part distribution. [0003] In many equipment-based industries, it is common to use service technicians to support and maintain the equipment. Such support and maintenance often requires a large number of spare parts. However, one problem with servicing such equipment has been obtaining the necessary spare parts in an efficient and cost-effective manner. [0004] An exemplary industry where this problem occurs is commercial aviation. Aircraft are routinely subject to various maintenance operations as part of their normal operation. Aircraft engines in particular have many components that periodically need to be replaced, on a ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] The above-mentioned need is met by the present invention which provides a network-based parts distribution system and process. The system includes a plurality of buyer computers for operation by a system participant desiring to obtain one or more parts, a plurality of seller computers for operation by a system participant desiring to sell one or more parts, and at least one server computer. The buyer computers, seller

Problems solved by technology

Such support and maintenance often requires a large number of spare parts.

However, one problem with servicing such equipment has been obtaining the necessary spare parts in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

While such numerous and diverse options for obtaining spare parts are available, the various sources form an unorganized network of prospective sellers that are generally independent from one another.

Thus, a prospective buyer is faced with a daunting task when trying to obtain acceptable parts at the lowest price available.

Given the large number of sources available, it is generally not practical to obtain a quote from every possible source.

However, this is a subjective approach in that it relies heavily on guesswork as to which sources should be contacted.

Furthermore, even when limiting the number of quotes required to be obtained, this approach can be a time consuming and inefficient process that does not guarantee the lowest pricing.

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