I/P Engine, Inc. v. AOL, Inc. et al
Filing
106
Declaration re 105 Memorandum in Support of Emily O'Brien by Google Inc., IAC Search & Media, Inc.. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A, # 2 Exhibit B, # 3 Exhibit C, # 4 Exhibit D, # 5 Exhibit E, # 6 Exhibit F, # 7 Exhibit G, # 8 Exhibit H, # 9 Exhibit I, # 10 Exhibit J, # 11 Exhibit K, # 12 Exhibit L, # 13 Exhibit M, # 14 Exhibit N, # 15 Exhibit O, # 16 Exhibit P, # 17 Exhibit Q, # 18 Exhibit R, # 19 Exhibit S, # 20 Exhibit T, # 21 Exhibit U, # 22 Exhibit V, # 23 Exhibit W)(Noona, Stephen)
EXHIBIT H
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
EASTERN DISTRICT OF VIRGINIA
NORFOLK DIVISION
__________________________________________
)
I/P ENGINE, INC.,
)
)
Plaintiff,
)
v.
)
Civ. Action No. 2:11-cv-512
)
AOL, INC. et al.,
)
)
Defendants.
)
__________________________________________)
PLAINTIFF I/P ENGINE, INC.’S PRELIMINARY DISCLOSURE OF
ASSERTED CLAIMS AND PRE-DISCOVERY INFRINGEMENT CONTENTIONS
AS TO AOL, INC.’S USE OF
GOOGLE ADWORDS AND GOOGLE ADSENSE FOR SEARCH
Plaintiff I/P Engine, Inc. (“I/P Engine”) hereby makes the following Disclosure of
Asserted Claims and Pre-Discovery Infringement Contentions for U.S. Patent Nos. 6,314,420
(“the ‘420 patent”) and 6,775,664 (“the ‘664 patent”).
A.
Identification of Asserted Claims and Infringing Products
Defendant AOL, Inc.’s (“AOL”) systems using Google, Inc.’s products, methods and
systems promoted under the names of Google AdWords and Google AdSense for Search1
(collectively “Google AdWords”) are accused of infringing at least the following claims:
claims 10, 14, 15, 25, 27 and 28 of the ‘420 patent; and
claims 1, 5, 6, 21, 22, 26, 28 and 38 of the ‘664 patent.
Each asserted claim of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents is reproduced in the attached claim
charts. The left column of the claim charts includes the language of each claim; each element of
each claim is listed separately. The right column of the claim charts includes the features of
1
Google AdWords and Google AdSense for Search appear to refer to the same system. Google
AdWords facilitates creating and running advertisements, while Google AdSense for Search
enables websites to display the AdWords advertisements in response to search queries.
IPE0000009; IPE0000031; IPE0000045.
AOL’s system using Google AdWords (e.g., AOL’s Implementation of the Google AdWords
System) that I/P Engine contends infringe each corresponding limitation in the claim based on
evidence currently available to I/P Engine. Based on the attached claim charts, AOL is liable for
direct infringement of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents.
These claim charts can be, and will be, supplemented and/or amended based upon
discovery, additional evidence, further investigation, and/or the claim construction by the Court.
B.
Identification of Infringing Structure, Acts, and/or Materials
As demonstrated by the attached claim charts and as described in marketing materials
and other publicly available sources, each limitation of each claim of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents
asserted against AOL is literally present in AOL’s system using Google AdWords. If AOL
contends that any limitation of any of the asserted claims is not literally present in AOL’s system
using Google AdWords, any such limitation of the asserted claims is present under the doctrine
of equivalents because the difference(s), if any, between AOL’s system using Google AdWords,
and what is literally claimed in the asserted claims is(are) insubstantial. I/P Engine will provide
contentions under the doctrine of equivalents if, after, and when AOL identifies which elements
it contends are not present in AOL’s system using Google AdWords.
C.
Identification of Priority Date
Each of the asserted claims of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents is entitled to a priority date at
least as early as the effective date of the ‘420 patent, i.e., December 3, 1998 (based on the filing
date of the patent application, U.S. Patent Application No. 09/204,149, that issued as the ‘420
patent). Additionally, each of the asserted claims of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents may be entitled to
an earlier effective date based on, without limitation, the filing of earlier related patent
applications.
2
D.
Indirect Infringement Disclosures
As demonstrated by the attached claim charts, the use of AOL’s system using Google
AdWords directly infringes the asserted claims of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents and establishes the
prerequisite act of direct infringement. AOL has also had knowledge of the ‘420 and ‘664
patents at least as early as the filing date of this lawsuit, September 15, 2011 (D.I. 001).
AOL, via publicly available materials, provides, sells, offers for sale, and/or promotes
the infringing system to customers that use AOL’s system using Google AdWords. Based on
these materials and uses, AOL intends for its customers to use AOL’s system using Google
AdWords in an infringing manner. Thus, AOL intends to cause infringement of the ‘420 and
‘664 patents.
By making, using, providing and promoting AOL’s system using Google AdWords,
and by continuing to provide and/or promote its website, with the intention of causing at least
some customers to use AOL’s system using Google AdWords in an infringing manner, AOL
actively and knowingly aids and abets infringement of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents and is liable
under induced infringement.
In addition, AOL’s system using Google AdWords is a material part of the claimed
invention of the ‘420 and ‘664 patents. AOL’s system using Google AdWords is especially
made or especially adapted for use with only infringing search engine systems and/or search
systems. Furthermore, AOL’s system using Google AdWords is not a staple article. AOL’s
system using Google AdWords is not a commodity of commerce and can only be used with
infringing search engine systems and/or search systems. AOL’s system using Google AdWords
is also not suitable for substantial non-infringing uses. Therefore, AOL is liable as a
contributory infringer.
3
These contentions are preliminary, are based on known publicly available
information, and are subject to change based on the Court’s claim construction. I/P Engine
reserves the right to amend and/or supplement these infringement contentions if and when
further information regarding AOL’s system using Google AdWords becomes available and/or
for other good cause.
Dated: November 11, 2011
By:
/s/ Charles J. Monterio, Jr. _______
Jeffrey K. Sherwood
Frank C. Cimino, Jr.
Kenneth W. Brothers
DeAnna Allen
Charles J. Monterio, Jr.
DICKSTEIN SHAPIRO LLP
1825 Eye Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
Telephone: (202) 420-2200
Facsimile: (202) 420-2201
Richard H. Ottinger
VANDEVENTER BLACK LLP
500 World Trade Center
Norfolk, VA 23510
Telephone: (757) 446-8600
Facsimile: (757) 446-8670
Counsel for Plaintiff I/P Engine, Inc.
4
CLAIM CHART FOR INFRINGEMENT OF U.S. PATENT NO. 6,314,420
AOL’s Implementation of the Google AdWords System
CLAIM 10
a. A search engine system comprising:
b. a system for scanning a network to make a
demand search for informons relevant to a query
from an individual user;
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The preamble is typically not a limitation and thus no comparison needs to be
made between the accused system, the AOL Website, and the preamble. See,
e.g., Symantec Corp. v. Computer Associate Intern., Inc., 522 F.3d 1279, 1288
(Fed. Cir. 2008)(“Absent clear reliance on the preamble in the prosecution
history, or in situations where it is necessary to provide antecedent basis for the
body of the claim, the preamble generally is not limiting.”)(quotation omitted).
However, the AOL Website includes a search engine system.
The AOL Website (www.aol.com) includes a search engine system that searches
for information (e.g., advertisements) relevant to the search query. For example,
when a user enters a search query into the search bar on the AOL Website and
selects the “search” button, the user is presented with a list of information, e.g.,
advertisements. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339. The display of advertisements on
the AOL Website is provided by the Google AdWords system. See IPE0000369
(“Sponsored links, also sometimes referred to as pay-per-click ads or just ads, are
administered, sorted and maintained by Google and AOL.”); IPE0000420 (“we
have had a contractual relationship with Google whereby we generate revenues
through paid text-based search and contextual advertising on AOL Properties
provided by Google”); IPE0000383 (“except in certain limited circumstances, we
have agreed to use Google’s . . . sponsored links on an exclusive basis in the
United States through December 31, 2015.”).
The AOL Website includes a system for scanning a network to make a demand
search for information relevant to a query from a user. For example, the search
bar on the AOL Website allows a user to enter a search query and run a demand
search. See section a. In response to the query, the Google AdWords system that
the AOL Website uses to display advertisements conducts a demand search for
5
CLAIM 10
c. a content-based filter system for receiving the
informons from the scanning system and for
filtering the informons on the basis of applicable
content profile data for relevance to the query;
and
d. a feedback system for receiving collaborative
feedback data from system users relative to
informons considered by such users;
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
information. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339. Google uses distributed databases in
its systems, and the databases distribute information across several locations on a
network. IPE0000011-IPE0000024; see also IPE0000026 (showing distributed
systems). Additionally, the system collects information on landing pages of
advertisements on the Internet. IPE0000066 (“[t]he AdWords system retrieves
advertiser landing pages to help us better understand the relevance and quality of
your AdWords ads as a whole. . . . To fully understand the quality of your
specified page, the system may follow other links on the page.”).
The AOL Website includes a system for receiving the information from the
scanning system and for filtering the information on the basis of applicable
content profile data for relevance to the query. For example, the AOL Website
uses the Google AdWords system to display advertisements. IPE0000383.
Google AdWords receives and filters advertisements on the basis of content data
(e.g., ad text, keyword, and landing page attributes) for relevance to the query.
IPE0000058. “AdWords uses a dynamic variable called ‘Quality Score’ to
evaluate keyword relevance” and that “Quality Score is based [in part] on . . . the
relevance of your ad text, keyword, and landing page.” Id.; see also
IPE0000061-IPE0000062 (“[t]he Quality Score for Ad Rank on Google and the
search network is determined by . . . the relevance of the keyword and the
matched ad to the search query” and that “[h]aving relevant keywords and ad text
. . . will result in a higher position for your ad.”).
The AOL Website includes a system that receives feedback data from system
users, the feedback data being related to the website information returned as
results and considered by users. For example, the AOL Website uses the Google
AdWords system to display advertisements. IPE0000383. Google AdWords
receives feedback (in the form of clickthrough data) about information, e.g.,
advertisements, considered by the other users. See IPE0000064 (“Millions of
users click on AdWords ads every day. Every single one of those clicks – and the
even more numerous impressions associated with them – is analyzed by our
filters (stage 1), which operate in real-time.”). Google AdWords uses the
“dynamic variable called ‘Quality Score’ to evaluate keyword relevance.”
IPE0000058. In AdWords, a component of the “Quality Score” is based on an
6
CLAIM 10
e. the filter system combining pertaining
feedback data from the feedback system with the
content profile data in filtering each informon
for relevance to the query.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
advertisement’s “clickthrough rate (CTR)” Id.; see also IPE0000061IPE0000062 ( “[t]he historical clickthrough rate (CTR) of the keyword and the
matched ad on Google; if the ad is appearing on a search network page, its CTR
on that search network partner is also considered” and that “[h]aving . . . a strong
CTR on Google . . . will result in a higher position for your ad.”). Google says
that, of the three components of Quality Score, CTR is “the biggest one by far”
and that “by allowing users to vote with their clicks, we have millions of people
that are helping us to decide which ads are best for each search query.”
IPE0000073. The CTR is feedback data from system users on advertisements
considered by the users.
The AOL Website includes a system that combines pertaining feedback data with
content data in filtering information for relevance to the query. For example the
AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system to display advertisements.
IPE0000383. Google states that AdWords uses a “Quality Score” to evaluate an
advertisement’s relevance. IPE0000063. The Quality Score is a combination of
factors including feedback data, i.e., “[a] keyword’s clickthrough rate (CTR),”
and content data, i.e., “the relevance of your ad text, keyword, and landing page.”
Id.; see also IPE0000062 (“Having relevant keywords and ad text [and] a strong
CTR on Google . . . will result in a higher position for your ad.”).
CLAIM 14
The system of claim 10 wherein the
collaborative feedback data comprises passive
feedback data.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system, which collects and uses
feedback data in the form of clickthrough rate. IPE0000383; see claim 10 section
d. The clickthrough rate recorded by Google AdWords is passive feedback data.
CLAIM 15
The system of claim 14 wherein the passive
feedback data is obtained by passively
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system to display advertisements.
IPE0000383. Google AdWords passively monitors a user’s behavior related to
7
CLAIM 15
monitoring the actual response to a proposed
informon.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
proposed advertisements. Google AdWords records the clickthrough rates of
each respective advertisement. See claim 10 section d.
CLAIM 25
a. A method for operating a search engine
system comprising:
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The preamble is typically not a limitation and thus no comparison needs to be
made between the accused system, the AOL Website, and the preamble. See,
e.g., Symantec Corp. v. Computer Associate Intern., Inc., 522 F.3d 1279, 1288
(Fed. Cir. 2008)(“Absent clear reliance on the preamble in the prosecution
history, or in situations where it is necessary to provide antecedent basis for the
body of the claim, the preamble generally is not limiting.”)(quotation omitted).
However, the AOL Website includes a method for operating a search engine
system.
b. scanning a network to make a demand search
for informons relevant to a query from an
individual user;
The AOL Website searches for information (e.g., advertisements) relevant to a
search query. For example, when a user enters a search query into the search bar
on the AOL Website (www.aol.com) and selects the “search” button, the user is
presented with a list of information, e.g., advertisements. See IPE0000337IPE0000339. The display of advertisements on the AOL Website is provided by
the Google AdWords system. See IPE0000369 (“Sponsored links, also
sometimes referred to as pay-per-click ads or just ads, are administered, sorted
and maintained by Google and AOL.”); IPE0000420 (“we have had a contractual
relationship with Google whereby we generate revenues through paid text-based
search and contextual advertising on AOL Properties provided by Google”);
IPE0000383 (“except in certain limited circumstances, we have agreed to use
Google’s . . . sponsored links on an exclusive basis in the United States through
December 31, 2015.”).
The AOL Website scans a network to make a demand search for information
(e.g., advertisements) relevant to a query from a user. For example, the search
bar on the AOL Website allows a user to enter a search query and run a demand
search. See section a. In response to the query, the Google AdWords system that
8
CLAIM 25
c. receiving the informons in a content-based
filter system from the scanning system and
filtering the informons on the basis of applicable
content profile data for relevance to the query;
d. receiving collaborative feedback data from
system users relative to informons considered by
such users; and
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
the AOL Website uses to display advertisements conducts a demand search for
information. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339. Google uses distributed databases in
its systems, and the databases distribute information across several locations on a
network. IPE0000011-IPE0000024; see also IPE0000026 (showing distributed
systems). Additionally, the system collects information on landing pages of
advertisements on the Internet. IPE0000066 (“[t]he AdWords system retrieves
advertiser landing pages to help us better understand the relevance and quality of
your AdWords ads as a whole. . . . To fully understand the quality of your
specified page, the system may follow other links on the page.”).
The AOL Website receives information from the scanning system and filters the
information on the basis of applicable content profile data for relevance to the
query. For example the AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system to
display advertisements. IPE0000383. Google AdWords receives and filters
advertisements on the basis of content data (e.g., ad text, keyword, and landing
page attributes) for relevance to the query. IPE0000058. “AdWords uses a
dynamic variable called ‘Quality Score’ to evaluate keyword relevance” and that
“Quality Score is based [in part] on . . . the relevance of your ad text, keyword,
and landing page.” Id.; see also IPE0000061-IPE0000062 (“[t]he Quality Score
for Ad Rank on Google and the search network is determined by . . . the
relevance of the keyword and the matched ad to the search query” and that
“[h]aving relevant keywords and ad text . . . will result in a higher position for
your ad.”).
The AOL Website also receives feedback data from system users, the feedback
data being related to the website information returned as results and considered
by users. For example the AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system to
display advertisements. IPE0000383. Google AdWords receives feedback (in
the form of clickthrough data) about information, e.g., advertisements,
considered by the other users. See IPE0000064 (“Millions of users click on
AdWords ads every day. Every single one of those clicks – and the even more
numerous impressions associated with them – is analyzed by our filters (stage 1),
which operate in real-time.”). Google AdWords uses the “dynamic variable
called ‘Quality Score’ to evaluate keyword relevance.” IPE0000058. In
9
CLAIM 25
e. combining pertaining feedback data with the
content profile data in filtering each informon
for relevance to the query.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
AdWords, a component of the “Quality Score” is based on an advertisement’s
“clickthrough rate (CTR)” Id.; see also IPE0000061-IPE0000062 (“[t]he
historical clickthrough rate (CTR) of the keyword and the matched ad on Google;
if the ad is appearing on a search network page, its CTR on that search network
partner is also considered” and that “[h]aving . . . a strong CTR on Google . . .
will result in a higher position for your ad.”). Google says that, of the three
components of Quality Score, CTR is “the biggest one by far” and that “by
allowing users to vote with their clicks, we have millions of people that are
helping us to decide which ads are best for each search query.” IPE0000073.
The CTR is feedback from system users relative to advertisements considered by
the users.
The AOL Website combines pertaining feedback data with content data in
filtering information for relevance to the query. For example the AOL Website
uses the Google AdWords system to display advertisements. IPE0000383.
Google states that AdWords uses a “Quality Score” to rank advertisements.
IPE0000063. The Quality Score is a combination of factors including feedback
data, i.e., “[a] keyword’s clickthrough rate (CTR),” and content data, i.e., “the
relevance of your ad text, keyword, and landing page.” Id.; see also IPE0000062
(“Having relevant keywords and ad text [and] a strong CTR on Google . . . will
result in a higher position for your ad.”).
CLAIM 27
The method of claim 25 wherein the
collaborative feedback data provides passive
feedback data.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system, which collects and uses
feedback data in the form of clickthrough rate. IPE0000383; see claim 10 section
d. The clickthrough rate recorded by Google AdWords is passive feedback data.
CLAIM 28
The method of claim 27 wherein the passive
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system to display advertisements.
10
CLAIM 28
feedback data is obtained by passively
monitoring the actual response to a proposed
informon.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
IPE0000383. Google AdWords records the clickthrough rates of each respective
advertisement. See claim 25 section d.
11
CLAIM CHART FOR INFRINGEMENT OF U.S. PATENT NO. 6,775,664
AOL’s Implementation of the Google AdWords System
CLAIM 1
a. A search system comprising:
b. a scanning system for searching for
information relevant to a query associated with a
first user in a plurality of users;
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The preamble is typically not a limitation and thus no comparison needs to be
made between the accused system, the AOL Website, and the preamble. See,
e.g., Symantec Corp. v. Computer Associate Intern., Inc., 522 F.3d 1279, 1288
(Fed. Cir. 2008)(“Absent clear reliance on the preamble in the prosecution
history, or in situations where it is necessary to provide antecedent basis for the
body of the claim, the preamble generally is not limiting.”)(quotation omitted).
However, the AOL Website includes a search system.
The AOL Website searches for information (e.g., advertisements) relevant to a
search query. For example, when a user enters a search query into the search bar
on the AOL Website and selects the “search” button, the user is presented with a
list of information, e.g., advertisements. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339. The
display of advertisements on the AOL Website is provided by the Google
AdWords system. See IPE0000369 (“Sponsored links, also sometimes referred
to as pay-per-click ads or just ads, are administered, sorted and maintained by
Google and AOL.”); IPE0000420 (“we have had a contractual relationship with
Google whereby we generate revenues through paid text-based search and
contextual advertising on AOL Properties provided by Google”); IPE0000383
(“except in certain limited circumstances, we have agreed to use Google’s . . .
sponsored links on an exclusive basis in the United States through December 31,
2015.”).
The AOL Website includes a system for searching for information relevant to a
query from a user. For example, the search bar on the AOL Website allows a
user to enter a search query and run a demand search. See section a. In response
to the query, the Google AdWords system that the AOL Website uses to display
advertisements conducts a demand search for information. See IPE0000337IPE0000339. Google AdWords searches for the information, in part, on the basis
12
CLAIM 1
c. a feedback system for receiving information
found to be relevant to the query by other users;
and
d. content-based filter system for combining the
information from the feedback system with the
information from the scanning system and for
filtering the combined information for relevance
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
of content data (e.g., ad text, keyword, and landing page attributes) for relevance
to the query. IPE0000058. Google states that “AdWords uses a dynamic
variable called ‘Quality Score’ to evaluate keyword relevance” and that “Quality
Score is based [in part] on . . . the relevance of your ad text, keyword, and
landing page.” Id.; see also IPE0000061-IPE0000062 (“[t]he Quality Score for
Ad Rank on Google and the search network is determined by . . . the relevance of
the keyword and the matched ad to the search query” and that “[h]aving relevant
keywords and ad text . . . will result in a higher position for your ad.”).
The AOL Website includes a system for receiving information found to be
relevant to the query by users of the system. For example the AOL Website uses
the Google AdWords system to display advertisements. IPE0000383. Google
AdWords receives feedback (in the form of clickthrough data) about information,
e.g., advertisements, considered by the other users. See IPE0000064 (“Millions
of users click on AdWords ads every day. Every single one of those clicks – and
the even more numerous impressions associated with them – is analyzed by our
filters (stage 1), which operate in real-time.”). Google AdWords uses the
“dynamic variable called ‘Quality Score’ to evaluate keyword relevance.”
IPE0000058. In AdWords, a component of the “Quality Score” is based on an
advertisement’s “clickthrough rate (CTR)” Id.; see also IPE0000061IPE0000062 (“[t]he historical clickthrough rate (CTR) of the keyword and the
matched ad on Google; if the ad is appearing on a search network page, its CTR
on that search network partner is also considered” and that “[h]aving . . . a strong
CTR on Google . . . will result in a higher position for your ad.”). Google says
that, of the three components of Quality Score, CTR is “the biggest one by far”
and that “by allowing users to vote with their clicks, we have millions of people
that are helping us to decide which ads are best for each search query.”
IPE0000073. The CTR is feedback on advertisements other users found to be
relevant to the query.
The AOL Website includes a system for combining information from the
feedback system with information from the scanning system to filter information
for relevance to the query. For example the AOL Website uses the Google
AdWords system to display advertisements. IPE0000383. Google states that
13
CLAIM 1
to at least one of the query and the first user.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
AdWords uses a “Quality Score” to evaluate an advertisement’s relevance.
IPE0000063. The Quality Score is a combination of factors including feedback
data, i.e., “[a] keyword’s clickthrough rate (CTR),” and content data, i.e., “the
relevance of your ad text, keyword, and landing page.” Id.; see also IPE0000062
(“Having relevant keywords and ad text [and] a strong CTR on Google . . . will
result in a higher position for your ad.”).
CLAIM 5
The search system of claim 1 wherein the
filtered information is an advertisement.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses the Google AdWords system to display advertisements.
IPE0000383. Google AdWords filters advertisements. See claim 1 sections a-d.
CLAIM 6
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The search system of claim 1 further comprising The AOL Website displays information to a user in the form of links to websites
an information delivery system for delivering the with short descriptions. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339 (displaying an example
search for “grill”).
filtered information to the first user.
CLAIM 21
The search system of claim 1 wherein the
content-based filter system filters by extracting
features from the information.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses Google AdWords to display advertisements.
IPE0000383. Google AdWords extracts features (e.g., text) from an
advertisement to perform content-based filtering. IPE0000058.
CLAIM 22
The search system of claim 21 wherein the
extracted features comprise content data
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
In Google AdWords, the extracted features described in claim 21 are content data
that is used to indicate the relevance of an item to the user’s query. See claim 1
14
CLAIM 22
indicative of the relevance to the at least one of
the query and the user.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
section b.
CLAIM 26
a. A method for obtaining information relevant
to a first user comprising:
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The preamble is typically not a limitation and thus no comparison needs to be
made between the accused system, the AOL Website, and the preamble. See,
e.g., Symantec Corp. v. Computer Associate Intern., Inc., 522 F.3d 1279, 1288
(Fed. Cir. 2008)(“Absent clear reliance on the preamble in the prosecution
history, or in situations where it is necessary to provide antecedent basis for the
body of the claim, the preamble generally is not limiting.”)(quotation omitted).
However, the AOL Website includes a method for obtaining information relevant
to a first user.
b. searching for information relevant to a query
associated with a first user in a plurality of users;
The AOL Website searches for information (e.g., advertisements) relevant to a
user. For example, when a user enters a search query into the search bar on the
AOL Website and selects the “search” button, the user is presented with a list of
information, e.g., advertisements. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339. The display of
advertisements on the AOL Website is provided by the Google AdWords system.
See IPE0000369 (“Sponsored links, also sometimes referred to as pay-per-click
ads or just ads, are administered, sorted and maintained by Google and AOL.”);
IPE0000420 (“we have had a contractual relationship with Google whereby we
generate revenues through paid text-based search and contextual advertising on
AOL Properties provided by Google”); IPE0000383 (“except in certain limited
circumstances, we have agreed to use Google’s . . . sponsored links on an
exclusive basis in the United States through December 31, 2015.”).
The AOL Website searches for information relevant to a query associated with a
user. For example, the search bar on the AOL Website allows a user to enter a
search query and run a demand search. See section a. In response to the query,
the Google AdWords system that the AOL Website uses to display
advertisements conducts a demand search for information. See IPE000033715
CLAIM 26
c. receiving information found to be relevant to
the query by other users;
d. combining the information found to be
relevant to the query by other users with the
searched information; and
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
IPE0000339. Google AdWords searches the information, in part, on the basis of
content data (e.g., ad text, keyword, and landing page attributes) for relevance to
the query. IPE0000058. Google states that “AdWords uses a dynamic variable
called ‘Quality Score’ to evaluate keyword relevance” and that “Quality Score is
based [in part] on . . . the relevance of your ad text, keyword, and landing page.”
Id.; see also IPE0000061-IPE0000062 (“[t]he Quality Score for Ad Rank on
Google and the search network is determined by . . . the relevance of the keyword
and the matched ad to the search query” and that “[h]aving relevant keywords
and ad text . . . will result in a higher position for your ad.”).
The AOL Website receives information found to be relevant to the query by users
of the system. For example, the AOL Website uses Google AdWords to display
advertisements. IPE0000383. Google AdWords receives feedback (in the form
of clickthrough data) about information, e.g., advertisements, considered by the
other users. See IPE0000064 (“Millions of users click on AdWords ads every
day. Every single one of those clicks – and the even more numerous impressions
associated with them – is analyzed by our filters (stage 1), which operate in realtime.”). Google AdWords uses the “dynamic variable called ‘Quality Score’ to
evaluate keyword relevance.” IPE0000058. In AdWords, a component of the
“Quality Score” is based on an advertisement’s “clickthrough rate (CTR)” Id.;
see also IPE0000061-IPE0000062 (“[t]he historical clickthrough rate (CTR) of
the keyword and the matched ad on Google; if the ad is appearing on a search
network page, its CTR on that search network partner is also considered” and that
“[h]aving . . . a strong CTR on Google . . . will result in a higher position for your
ad.”). Google says that, of the three components of Quality Score, CTR is “the
biggest one by far” and that “by allowing users to vote with their clicks, we have
millions of people that are helping us to decide which ads are best for each search
query.” IPE0000073. The CTR is feedback on advertisements that other users
found relevant to the query.
The AOL Website combines information found to be relevant to the query with
the searched information. For example, the AOL Website uses Google AdWords
to display advertisements. IPE0000383. Google states that AdWords uses a
“Quality Score” to evaluate an advertisement’s relevance. IPE0000063. The
16
CLAIM 26
e. content-based filtering the combined
information for relevance to at least one of the
query and the first user.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
Quality Score is a combination of factors including feedback data, i.e., “[a]
keyword’s clickthrough rate (CTR),” and content data, i.e., “the relevance of
your ad text, keyword, and landing page.” Id.; see also IPE0000062 (“Having
relevant keywords and ad text [and] a strong CTR on Google . . . will result in a
higher position for your ad.”).
The AOL Website uses Google AdWords to display advertisements.
IPE0000383. Google AdWords calculates a “Quality Score” for each
advertisement, which combines content and feedback information. See claim 26
section d. The “Quality Score” is used to determine the relevance of the ad to the
query and/or the user. IPE0000058 (“For AdWords ads, the most important
factor in relevance and ranking is the ad's quality, also called the Quality
Score.”).
CLAIM 28
28. The method of claim 26 further comprising
the step of delivering the filtered information to
the first user.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses Google AdWords to display advertisements.
IPE0000383. Google AdWords delivers filtered information to a user in the form
of links to websites with short descriptions. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339
(displaying an example search for “grill”).
CLAIM 38
38. The method of claim 26 wherein the
searching step comprises scanning a network in
response to a demand search for the information
relevant to the query associated with the first
user.
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
The AOL Website uses Google AdWords to display advertisements.
IPE0000383. Google AdWords scans a network in response to a demand search
for information relevant to a query from a user. For example, the search bar on
the AOL Website allows a user to enter a search query and run a demand search.
See section a. In response to the query, the Google AdWords system that the
AOL Website uses to display advertisements conducts a demand search for
information. See IPE0000337-IPE0000339. Google uses distributed databases in
its systems, and the databases distribute information across several locations on a
17
CLAIM 38
AOL’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOOGLE ADWORDS SYSTEM
network. IPE0000011-IPE0000024; see also IPE0000026(showing distributed
systems). The system therefore scans the network to make the search for
advertisements. Additionally, the system scans landing pages of advertisements
on the Internet. Additionally, “[t]he AdWords system retrieves advertiser
landing pages to help us better understand the relevance and quality of your
AdWords ads as a whole. . . . To fully understand the quality of your specified
page, the system may follow other links on the page.” IPE0000066
18
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on this 11th day of November, 2011, the foregoing Plaintiff I/P
Engine, Inc’s Preliminary Disclosure of Asserted Claims and Pre-Discovery Infringement
Contentions as to AOL, Inc.’s Use of Google AdWords and Google AdSense for Search, was
served via email, on the following:
Stephen Edward Noona
Kaufman & Canoles, P.C.
150 W Main St
Suite 2100
Norfolk, VA 23510
senoona@kaufcan.com
David Bilsker
David Perlson
Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP
50 California Street, 22nd Floor
San Francisco, CA 94111
davidbilsker@quinnemanuel.com
davidperlson@quinnemanuel.com
Robert L. Burns
Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP
Two Freedom Square
11955 Freedom Drive
Reston, VA 20190
robert.burns@finnegan.com
Cortney S. Alexander
Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP
3500 SunTrust Plaza
303 Peachtree Street, NE
Atlanta, GA 94111
cortney.alexander@finnegan.com
/s/ Armands Chagnon
Senior Paralegal
DSMDB-2997346v1
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