I am currently reading through a standard Australian patent and in the "Summary" section, I have seen the use of "Preferably", "Advantageously" and "Optionally" used numerous times when beginning almost every paragraph.
Preferably, the web server is controlled by the computer program code to send, via the interface, the property identification data to a property verification server, receive, via the interface, verification of the property identification data.
Advantageously, the application server is adapted to automate the identity verification process of the bidder, the vendor and property so as to substantially reduce manual intervention in the verification process.
...
Preferably, if acceptance data is not received during the extended auction period, via the interface, representing acceptance of the bid amount by a vendor, then the web server is controlled by the computer program code to close the auction.
Preferably, the configuration data comprises reserve price data representing a reserve price for the property and wherein if the bid amount is greater than the reserve price, then the web server is controlled by the computer program code to record the property as having been sold.
How do these adverbs differ when used in a patent and when should they be used? To a naive person reading those terms loosely (like myself), they all seem to mean "optionally".