FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10; rule 13)
“SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EFFECTIVELY SUPPORTING AN ADVERTISING CATALOG IN AN
ELECTRONIC NETWORK”
Sony Corporation of the address: 1-7-1 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-0075, Japan and
Sony Electronics Inc. of the address: 1 Sony Drive, Park Ridge, New Jersey 07656, United
States of America.
The following specification particularly describes and ascertains the nature of this invention and the manner
in which it has to be performed:
2
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EFFECTIVELY SUPPORTING
AN ADVERTISING CATALOG IN AN ELECTRONIC NETWORK
BACKGROUND SECTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to techniques for distributing electronic
information, and relates more particularly to a system and method for effectively
supporting an advertising catalog in an electronic network.
2. Description of the Background Art
Implementing effective methods for distributing electronic information is a
significant consideration for designers and manufacturers of contemporary
electronic systems. However, effectively distributing electronic information
utilized by electronic devices may create substantial challenges for system
designers. For example, enhanced demands for increased system functionality
and performance may require more system processing power and require
additional software resources. An increase in processing or software
requirements may also result in a corresponding detrimental economic impact
due to increased production costs and operational inefficiencies.
Furthermore, enhanced system capability to perform various advanced
distribution operations may provide additional benefits to a system user, but
may also place increased demands on the control and management of various
system components. For example, an electronic system that effectively manages
electronic coupon and advertising information may benefit from an effective
implementation because of the large amount and complexity of the digital data
involved.
3
Due to growing demands on system resources and substantially
increasing data magnitudes, it is apparent that developing new techniques for
distributing electronic information to electronic devices is a matter of concern
for related electronic technologies. Therefore, for all the foregoing reasons,
developing effective techniques for distributing electronic information remains a
significant consideration for designers, manufacturers, and users of
contemporary electronic systems.
4
SUMMARY
In accordance with the present invention, a system and method for
effectively supporting an advertising catalog in an electronic network are
disclosed. In one embodiment, a distribution system automatically provides
various types of appropriate information for utilization by device users of
corresponding user devices. For example, the distributed information may
include, but is not limited to, commercial advertising and related reminder
information that is targeted towards specific device users. Unlike traditional
advertising techniques that support a “pull” model that requires consumers to
actively access desired advertising information, the foregoing distribution system
supports a “push” model that automatically selects and transmits appropriate
advertising information to targeted device users based upon corresponding
metadata files that define both the device users and the various advertisers.
In one embodiment, the distribution system may support and utilize one
or more transport structures that automatically transport various types of
relevant information to and from appropriate entities in the distribution system.
For example, the transport structures may be utilized to gather and transfer
metadata regarding the various device users, the user devices, the electronic
network, current inventories of consumable products, and respective advertisers
from an information service. In addition, the transport structures may also be
utilized to provide links to targeted reminder information, advertisements
and/or electronic content to appropriate user devices.
In certain embodiments, one or more transport structures are initially
created in any effective manner. For example, the transport structures may be
embedded in user devices during manufacture, and then activated by device
users. Alternately, an appropriate entity in the distribution system may create
or otherwise provide the initial transport structures. Advertiser metadata from
one or more advertisers may be added to the transport structures in any
5
effective manner to represent relevant characteristics and advertising goals of
the corresponding advertisers.
In addition, appropriate media files may be created to include information
for dissemination to targeted device users through the distribution system. The
media files may include any desired information, such as advertisements,
reminder information, and content items. Next, device users may perform a
registration procedure to subscribe for receiving information from the
distribution system. During the registration procedure, the device users
typically provide various types of relevant information including, but not limited
to, user metadata and device metadata. The transport structures are updated
to include the user metadata provided by the device users during the foregoing
registration procedure.
In accordance with the present invention, catalog metadata may be
collected from appropriate sources in any effective manner. For example,
catalog metadata may be obtained from appropriate user devices, merchant
transaction devices, and intelligent home appliances and/or storage cabinets to
indicate relevant information about current inventory levels and commercial
transaction histories for inventory items from the advertising catalog. The
catalog metadata is then utilized to update corresponding information in one or
more transport structures for transfer to a transport server.
The transport server or other appropriate entity analyzes the metadata
provided by the transport structure(s). In light of the metadata analysis and
predefined transmission criteria, the transport server then determines whether
to transmit corresponding reminder information and/or advertising information
to targeted device users. If the specified transmission criteria are satisfied, then
the transport server generates appropriate reminder information for targeted
device users by utilizing any effective means. For example, in certain
embodiments, a catalog manager of the transport server generates predefined
reminder information with reference to the advertising catalog when a respective
6
inventory amount falls below a reminder threshold for a corresponding inventory
item.
The transport server may then transmit the generated reminder
information to the targeted device users by utilizing any effective means. For
example, in certain embodiments, one or more transport structures may be
utilized to convey reminder information to respective user devices. Local display
devices of corresponding user devices then typically display the received
reminder information for viewing by the device users. The device users may
advantageously utilize the reminder information in any appropriate manner.
For example, in certain embodiments, device users may responsively perform
commercial transactions to obtain one or more inventory items that are
referenced in the reminder information.
Finally, feedback metadata regarding the reminder information and/or the
commercial transactions may be generated and provided to advertisers or other
interested entities in any effective manner. For example, in certain
embodiments, a user device of a merchant involved in the commercial
transactions may automatically generate feedback metadata. The feedback
metadata may be transported to advertisers or other interested parties by
utilizing one or more transport structures or other effective techniques. Based
upon the feedback metadata, advertisers may thus more accurately analyze the
effectiveness and efficiency of their corresponding advertisements and reminder
strategies. For at least the foregoing reasons, the present invention therefore
provides an improved system and method for effectively supporting an
advertising catalog in an electronic network.
7
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a distribution system, in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 1B is a block diagram of a trusted network, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2A is a block diagram for one embodiment of a transport structure,
in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 2B is a block diagram for one embodiment of a media file, in
accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram for one embodiment of a user device from FIG.
1A, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the user memory from
FIG. 3, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the information service
from FIG. 1A, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 6A is a block diagram for one embodiment of the transport server
from FIG. 5, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 6B is a block diagram for one embodiment of the transport server
memory from FIG. 6A, in accordance with the present invention;
8
FIG. 6C is a block diagram for one embodiment of the catalog information
from FIG. 6B, in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a block diagram for one embodiment of the ad server from FIG.
5, in accordance with the present invention; and
FIGS. 8A-8C are a flowchart of method steps for effectively supporting an
advertising catalog, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
9
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to an improvement in electronic data
distribution techniques. The following description is presented to enable one of
ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided in the
context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to
the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the
generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the
present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but
is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features
described herein.
The present invention comprises a system and method for distributing
reminder information in an electronic network, and includes an information
service that is configured to provide information distribution services through
said information distribution network. User devices are provided for device
users to communicate with the information service for receiving the information
distribution services. A transport structure communicates with network entities
in the information distribution network for collecting appropriate types of
metadata. A transport server then performs a metadata analysis procedure
upon the various types of metadata to responsively generate the reminder
information.
Referring now to FIG. 1A, a block diagram of a distribution system 110 is
shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the
FIG. 1A embodiment, distribution system 110 may include, but is not limited to,
one or more user devices 122, an information service 118, and a network 126.
In alternate embodiments, distribution system 110 may be implemented by
utilizing components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of
10
those components and configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 1A
embodiment.
In accordance with the present invention, distribution system 110
advantageously supports a distribution procedure that automatically provides
various types of appropriate information for utilization by device users of
corresponding user devices 122. For example, the distributed information may
include, but is not limited to, commercial advertising and reminder information
that is specifically targeted towards appropriate device users of user devices
122. Unlike traditional advertising techniques that support a “pull” model that
requires consumers to actively access desired advertising information, the FIG.
1A distribution system 110 supports a “push” model that automatically selects
and transmits appropriate reminder information and advertising to targeted
device users based upon corresponding metadata that defines the device users
and the various advertisers.
In the FIG. 1A embodiment, distribution system 110 may be implemented
and supported by a distribution control entity that offers distribution services to
the advertisers and device users in return for financial or other compensation.
The distribution control entity may be a commercial enterprise that maintains
and controls key elements of distribution system 110 such as the information
service 118.
In certain embodiments, distribution system 110 may advantageously
support and utilize one or more transport structures (see FIG. 2A) that
automatically transport various types of relevant information to and from
appropriate entities in distribution system 110. For example, the transport
structures may be utilized to gather and transfer metadata regarding the various
device users, the user devices 122, the network 126, and respective advertisers
from information service 118. In addition, the transport structures may also be
utilized to transport or provide links to targeted reminders, advertisements
and/or electronic content for appropriate user devices 122.
11
The foregoing reminders and advertisements may be generated with
reference to a predefined advertising catalog of corresponding products or
services. The present invention thus proves an improved system and method for
effectively supporting an advertising catalog in an electronic network. Further
details regarding the implementation and utilization of an advertising catalog in
the FIG. 1A distribution system 110 are discussed below in conjunction with
FIGS. 1B-8C.
Referring now to FIG. 1B, a block diagram of a trusted network 150 is
shown, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In the
FIG. 1B embodiment, trusted network 150 may include, but is not limited to,
one or more user devices122(a) through 122(m). In FIG. 1B, the user devices
122 may be the same or similar to correspondingly-numbered user devices
122(a) through 122(m) from FIG. 1A. In the FIG. 1B embodiments the various
user devices 122 may each perform bi-directional communications with any or
all of the other user devices 122 in trusted network 150 by using any effective
communication techniques. For example, the user devices 122 may
communicate by utilizing peer-to-peer techniques or personal area network
(PAN) technology.
The FIG. 1B trusted network 150 is presented for purposes of illustration,
and in alternate embodiments, trusted network 150 may be implemented by
utilizing components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of
those components and configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 1B
embodiment. For example, any desired number or type of user devices 122 may
be utilized by corresponding device users to form trusted network 150. In the
FIG. 1B embodiment, trusted network 150 may be defined or created by utilizing
any effective techniques.
In the FIG. 1B embodiment, certain of the user devices 122 may be
implemented as electronic transaction cards (such as known or enhanced
SmartCards) that electronically communicate with other user devices 122 to
12
receive and store electronic coupon information. In addition, certain of the user
devices 122 may be implemented as electronic transaction token (such as
known or enhanced SmartTokens) that electronically communicate with other
user devices 122 to receive and store electronic coupon information. These
transaction cards or transaction tokens may communicate with user devices
122 of merchants or other sales entities.
In the FIG. 1B embodiment, certain of the user devices 122 may be
implemented as digital signs or other types of intelligent local display devices.
In certain embodiments, a given user device 122 may utilize an automatic
communication procedure to transparently provide receptiveness metadata to
one or more nearby digital signs. The digital signs may then automatically
identify and display targeted and relevant advertisements and reminder
information to the corresponding device user based upon the received
receptiveness metadata.
In the FIG. 1B embodiment, certain of the user devices 122 may be
implemented as intelligent storage devices (such as cabinets or refrigerators)
that are configured to automatically monitor a definable inventory of contents,
and communicate with one or more transport structures or user devices 122 to
provide catalog metadata regarding the current status of the respective
inventory items. In addition, certain of the user devices 122 may be
implemented as CRM (customer relationship management) devices that
automatically monitor commercial transactions to provide corresponding catalog
metadata regarding those transactions to one or more transport structures or
appropriate user devices 122.
In accordance with the present invention, advertising catalogs may be
created as an effective tool for identifying and providing appropriate reminders
and corresponding advertising to targeted device users. Consumable products
are routinely utilized by individuals, families, business, and other entities. For
example, many drugs are important for treatment of sickness, gasoline is
required for powering automobiles, and food supplies are needed for preparing
13
meals. It is both time-consuming and burdensome to monitor the inventory of
these consumables and related complementary items. The present invention
contemplates developing advertising catalogs that can inform and incent
consumer purchases through electronic means.
The present invention envisions exploiting transport structures that
provide for trusted exchanges between devices, SmartCards or SmartTokens,
and merchant CRM systems. This technique may be utilized to provide specific
targeted reminders to a variety of electronic displays. For example, a user could
be reminded that it has been a month since breakfast cereal was last
purchased, and at a historic rate of consumption, the cereal inventory likely
becoming low. Another reminder may inform users that they recently
purchased peanut butter, but no jelly inventory exists at home in the intelligent
cabinet. The reminder may inquire whether a user would like to purchase the
jelly now, because the user is currently at the supermarket. An adjunct to this
“adjacency marketing scheme” would be the provisioning, via SmartToken or
SmartCard, of a system that would allow movie-goers who had seen a particular
theatrical to then receive an incentive to purchase the movie when it is
published to DVD.
The present invention could thus facilitate the transmission of a reminder
or advertisement to incent the purchase of a complimentary item at the time of
greatest consumer need. This technique could also provide an attractive target
for those advertisers seeking to switch a consumer to their brand. The present
invention could employ a network of interactive devices in a trusted network
150. For example, network-linked intelligent refrigerators and cabinets, a
network-located clearinghouse of a consumer’s preferences and behaviors, and
CRM systems that have trusted relationships with each other.
Referring now to FIG. 2A, a block diagram for one embodiment of a
transport structure 210 is shown, in accordance with the present invention.
The FIG. 2A embodiment is presented for purposes of illustration, and in
14
alternate embodiments, transport structures 210 may be implemented by
utilizing components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of
those components and configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 2A
embodiment.
In the FIG. 2A embodiment, each of the metadata categories/fields
includes information from respective corresponding metadata-source types. For
example, user metadata 222 may include information regarding one or more
device users of user devices 122 (FIG. 1A). In certain embodiments, user
metadata 222 may be selectively compiled from one or more appropriate user
profiles 430 (FIG. 4). Similarly, device metadata 226 may include information
regarding one or more user devices 122. In certain embodiments, device
metadata 226 may be selectively compiled from one or more appropriate device
profiles 434 (FIG. 4). In the FIG. 2A embodiment, network metadata 230 may
include information regarding various attributes or entities of electronic network
126 (FIG. 1A).
In the FIG. 2A embodiment, advertiser metadata 234 may include
information regarding one or more advertisers that are associated with
distribution system 110. In certain embodiments, the advertisers may be
associated with ad sources 540 (FIG. 5). In the FIG. 2A embodiment, catalog
metadata 240 may include any appropriate type of information related to certain
definable inventory items or categories in corresponding advertising catalogs.
For example, catalog metadata 240 may include, but is not limited to, current
monitored inventory levels for corresponding inventory items or inventory
categories, current physical location information for corresponding user devices,
and specific commercial transactions involving identified device users or
corresponding user devices 122 (for example, purchase transactions).
In the FIG. 2A embodiment, feedback metadata 242 may include any
appropriate information or statistics that relates to the utilization or selection of
corresponding advertisements or reminders by respective device users. In
certain embodiments, feedback metadata 242 may be collected from
15
corresponding user devices 122 and provided via transport structure 210 to
appropriate entities. For example, certain advertisers may access the feedback
metadata 242 for evaluating the efficiency characteristics of corresponding
advertisements or reminders.
In the FIG. 2A embodiment, media link 246 may include appropriate
information to indicate a location or a connection means for accessing one or
more media files, as discussed below in conjunction with FIG. 2B. In the FIG.
2A embodiment, task instructions 250 may include any appropriate instructions
or other information that indicate specific tasks, operations, functions, or steps
for performance by transport structure 210. For example, in certain
embodiments, task instructions 250 may include detailed instructions
describing the type of information that transport structure 210 is directed to
collect and/or distribute. In the FIG. 2A embodiment, navigation instructions
254 may include any appropriate instructions or other information that provide
specific navigational directions or limitations for transport structure 210. For
example, in certain embodiments, navigation instructions 216 may define at
least one navigation path that is defined by one or more origin points and one or
more destination points.
Various entities in distribution system 110 may utilize the information in
transport structure 210 in any appropriate manner. For example, a
reminder/advertising targeting procedure may be performed by matching
compatible elements of user metadata 222, device metadata 226, catalog
metadata 240, and advertiser metadata 234 to thereby to identify appropriate
types of relevant reminder/advertising information for automatic transmission
to targeted device users.
Transport structures 210 may be originated in any effective manner from
any appropriate source. For example, transport structures 210 may be
embedded in user devices 122 (FIG. 1A), and activated by device users if desired.
Alternately, various entities in network 126 or information service 118 may
create or activate transport structures 210. For example, a transport server (see
16
FIG. 6A) may manage the origination and operation of transport structures 210.
Further details regarding the implementation and utilization of the FIG. 2A
transport structure 210 are discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 2B-8C.
Referring now to FIG. 2B, a block diagram for one embodiment of a media
file 250 is shown, in accordance with the present invention. The FIG. 2B
embodiment is presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate
embodiments, media file 250 may be implemented by utilizing components and
configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of those components and
configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 2B embodiment. For
example, the FIG. 2B media file 250 is shown as a separate entity that is
accessible by utilizing the media link 246 of FIG. 2A. However, in alternate
embodiments, media file 250 may be implemented as an integral part of
transport structure 210 of FIG. 2A.
In the FIG. 2B embodiment, advertisements (ads) 254 may include any
appropriate type of targeted advertising information that has been selected for
transmission to appropriate ones of the user devices 122 (FIG. 1A). Similarly,
content items 258 may include any appropriate type of electronic content
information that has been selected for transmission to appropriate ones of the
user devices 122. For example, content 258 may include, but is not limited to,
video data, audio data, graphics, text, movies, music recordings, and computer
programs.
In the FIG. 2B embodiment, reminder information 262 may include any
appropriate type of information or data. For example, reminder information 262
may include, but is not limited to, text messages or audio-visual information
that are intended to remind device users about purchasing opportunities with
respect to inventory items from an advertising catalog (see FIG. 6C). Further
information for providing appropriate media files 250 to targeted device users is
further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 3-8C.
17
Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram for one embodiment of a FIG. 1A
user device 122 is shown, in accordance with the present invention. In the FIG.
3 embodiment, user device 122 includes, but is not limited to, a central
processing unit (CPU) 314, a memory 318, a display 338, and one or more
input/output interface(s) (I/O interface(s)) 340. The FIG. 3 embodiment is
presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate embodiments, a user
device 122 may be implemented using components and configurations in
addition to, or instead of, certain of those components and configurations
discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 3 embodiment. In addition, user device
122 may be implemented as any type of portable or non-portable electronic
device, including, but not limited to, a desktop computer, a personal digital
assistant, a cellular telephone, an electronic transaction card, a digital sign
device, a settop box, or a laptop computer.
In the FIG. 3 embodiment, CPU 314 may be implemented to include any
appropriate and compatible microprocessor device that preferably executes
software instructions to thereby control and manage the operation of user device
122. The FIG. 3 display 338 may include any effective type of display technology
including a cathode-ray-tube monitor or a liquid-crystal display device with an
appropriate screen for displaying various information to a device user. In the
FIG. 3 embodiment, I/O interface(s) 340 may include one or more input and/or
output interfaces to receive and/or transmit any required types of information
by user device 122. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, memory 318 may be
implemented to include any combination of desired storage devices, including,
but not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), and
various types of non-volatile memory, such as floppy disks, memory sticks,
compact disks, or hard disks. Additional details for the utilization of user device
122 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 4-8C.
Referring now to FIG. 4, a block diagram for one embodiment of the FIG. 3
user memory 318 is shown, in accordance with the present invention. In
18
alternate embodiments, user memories 318 may be implemented by utilizing
components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of those
components and configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 4
embodiment.
In the FIG. 4 embodiment, device application 422 may include program
instructions that are preferably executed by CPU 314 to perform various
functions and operations for user device 122. The particular nature and
functionality of device application 422 typically varies depending upon factors
such as the specific type and particular functionality of the corresponding user
device 122.
In the FIG. 4 embodiment, user device 122 utilizes device application 422
to manage catalog metadata 240, a user profile 430, and a device profile 434
that collectively describe any desired attributes or characteristics related to user
device 122 or a device user of user device 122. For example, user profile 430
may include, but is not limited to, information regarding a device user’s name,
gender, age, religion, hobbies, interests, occupation, marital status, residence,
income, Internet browsing history, geographic location, and credit-card
transaction records. Similarly, device profile 434 may include, but is not limited
to, a device type, a device manufacturer, supported device functionalities, a
current device location, and a device configuration.
In addition, in the FIG. 4 embodiment, catalog metadata 240 may include any
appropriate type of information that is related to certain definable inventory
items or categories in corresponding advertising catalogs. For example, catalog
metadata 240 may include, but is not limited to, current monitored inventory
levels for corresponding inventory items or inventory categories, current physical
location information for corresponding user devices 122, and specific
commercial transactions involving identified device users or corresponding user
devices 122 (for example, purchase transactions).
In the FIG. 4 embodiment, docking port 438 may include any appropriate
type of interface means to facilitate bi-directional communications between one
19
or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2) and a user device 122. In the FIG. 4
embodiment, advertisements (ads) 442 may include targeted advertising
information that has been received via distribution system 110 (FIG. 1A)
specifically for a device user of user device 122. Similarly, content 446 may
include targeted electronic content information that has been received via
distribution system 110 (FIG. 1A) specifically for a device user of user device
122.
In the FIG. 4 embodiment, reminder information 262 may include may
include any appropriate type of information or data. For example, reminder
information 262 may include, but is not limited to, text messages or audiovisual
information that are intended to remind device users about purchasing
opportunities with respect to items from an advertising catalog (see FIG. 6C). In
the FIG. 4 embodiment, miscellaneous information 454 may include any
appropriate additional information or data for utilization by user device 122.
For example, in certain embodiments, miscellaneous information 454 may
include various types of metadata relating to other entities in distribution
system 110 that was downloaded from one or more transport structures 210.
Further details regarding the implementation and utilization of the FIG. 4 user
memory 318 are discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 5-8C.
Referring now to FIG. 5, a block diagram for one embodiment of the FIG.
1A information service 118 is shown, in accordance with the present invention.
In the FIG. 5 embodiment, information service 118 includes, but is not limited
to, a controller 514, a transport server 518, an ad server 538, one or more ad
sources 540, and one or more content sources 542. The FIG. 5 embodiment is
presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate embodiments,
information service 118 may be implemented using components and
configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of those components and
configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 5 embodiment.
20
In the FIG. 5 embodiment, controller 514 may be implemented to include
any effective control means for coordinating operating functionalities of
information service 118. For example, in certain embodiments, controller 514
may be implemented as a computer device with a corresponding control
application program that manages the operation of information service 118.
Alternately, controller 514 may be implemented as a central processing unit that
includes any appropriate and compatible microprocessor device for executing
software instructions to thereby control and manage the operation of
information service 118.
In the FIG. 5 embodiment, transport server 518 may include any effective
means for communicating with and controlling one or more transport structures
210 (FIG. 2A), in accordance with the present invention. Additional details
regarding the implementation and utilization of transport server 518 are further
discussed below in conjunction with FIG. 6A. In the FIG. 5 embodiment, ad
source(s) 540 may include one or more appropriate entities for providing
advertisement information and reminder information for dissemination through
distribution system 110 (FIG. 1A). For example, ad sources 540 may include
various commercial enterprises, specific advertisers, or advertising developers.
In the FIG. 5 embodiment, content source(s) 542 may include one or more
appropriate entities for providing electronic content for dissemination through
distribution system 110. For example, content sources 542 may include various
commercial enterprises, specific advertisers, or content producers. In the FIG. 5
embodiment, ad server 538 may include any effective means for identifying and
aggregating appropriate advertising information and/or electronic content for
providing to targeted device users of user devices 122 (FIG. 1A) by utilizing
metadata from one or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2A). One
embodiment of ad server 538 is further discussed below in conjunction with
FIG. 7. Additional details for the implementation and utilization of information
service 118 are further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 6-8C.
21
Referring now to FIG. 6A, a block diagram for one embodiment of the
transport server 518 of FIG. 5 is shown, in accordance with the present
invention. In the FIG. 6A embodiment, transport server 518 includes, but is not
limited to, a central processing unit (CPU) 614, a memory 618, a display 638,
and one or more input/output interface(s) (I/O interface(s)) 640. The FIG. 6A
embodiment is presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate
embodiments, transport servers 518 may be implemented using components
and configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of those components and
configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 6A embodiment.
In the FIG. 6A embodiment, CPU 614 may be implemented to include any
appropriate and compatible microprocessor device that preferably executes
software instructions to thereby control and manage the operation of transport
server 518. The FIG. 6A display 638 may include any effective type of display
technology including a cathode-ray-tube monitor or a liquid-crystal display
device with an appropriate screen for displaying various information to a device
user. In the FIG. 6A embodiment, I/O interface(s) 640 may include one or more
input and/or output interfaces to receive and/or transmit any required types of
information by user device 122. In the FIG. 6A embodiment, transport server
memory 618 may be implemented to include any combination of desired storage
devices, including, but not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random-access
memory (RAM), and various types of non-volatile memory, such as floppy disks,
memory sticks, compact disks, or hard disks.
Referring now to FIG. 6B, a block diagram for one embodiment of the FIG.
6A transport server memory 618 is shown, in accordance with the present
invention. In alternate embodiments, transport server memories 618 may be
implemented by utilizing components and configurations in addition to, or
instead of, certain of those components and configurations discussed in
conjunction with the FIG. 6B embodiment.
22
In the FIG. 6B embodiment, transport server memory 618 may include,
but is not limited to, a number of software programs and data that are disclosed
below. For example, transport server memory 618 may include a server
application 644 of program instructions that are preferably executed by CPU
614 to perform various functions and operations for transport server 518. The
particular nature and functionality of server application typically varies
depending upon factors such as the specific type and particular functionality of
the corresponding transport server 518.
The transport server 518 may utilize a TS manager 648 to manage and
coordinate various functions for one or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2A),
in accordance with the present invention. In certain embodiments, the TS
manager 648 may include a registration module for coordinating registration
procedures to register device users of user devices 122 for participating in
various authorized distribution services from distribution system 110 (FIG. 1A).
A TS database 652 may include any appropriate information regarding the
transport structures 210 that provide distribution services to various entities in
distribution system 110.
In certain embodiments, the TS manager 648 may continually update
respective transport structure information in the TS database 652 to reflect the
current status of transport structures 210 in distribution system 110. The
transport server 518 may utilize a communication module 656 to perform bidirectional
electronic communication procedures with any appropriate remote
entity. For example, the communication module 656 may be utilized to remotely
communicate with transport structures 210 in distribution system 110.
In the FIG. 6B embodiment, catalog metadata 240 may include any appropriate
type of information that is related to certain definable inventory items or
categories in corresponding advertising catalogs. For example, catalog metadata
240 may include, but is not limited to, current monitored inventory levels for
corresponding inventory items or inventory categories, current physical location
information for corresponding user devices 122, and specific commercial
23
transactions involving identified device users or corresponding user devices 122
(for example, purchase transactions).
In the FIG. 6B embodiment, a catalog manager 664 may perform a
metadata analysis procedure by utilizing any effective techniques to produce
corresponding targeted and relevant reminder information 262 (FIG. 2B) to be
sent to one or more appropriate device users. For example, in certain
embodiments, catalog manager 664 may analyze catalog metadata 240 gathered
from a user devices 122 and corresponding device users in light of certain
predefined criteria to identify specific relevant reminder information 262.
In the FIG. 6B embodiment, catalog information 262 may include any
appropriate type of information or data. Additional details regarding one
embodiment of catalog information 668 are further discussed below in
conjunction with FIG. 6C. In the FIG. 6B embodiment, miscellaneous
information 672 may include any desired type of information or data for
utilization by transport server 518. The implementation and utilization of
transport server 518 is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 6C-
8C.
Referring now to FIG. 6C, a block diagram for one embodiment of the FIG.
6B catalog information 668 is shown, in accordance with the present invention.
In alternate embodiments, catalog information 668 may be implemented by
utilizing components and configurations in addition to, or instead of, certain of
those components and configurations discussed in conjunction with the FIG. 6C
embodiment.
In the FIG. 6C embodiment, catalog information 668 may include, but is
not limited to, a series of individual advertising catalogs 680(a) through 689(n)
that each correspond to a respective device user, family, household, business, or
other appropriate entity. Any desired number of advertising catalogs 680 may
readily be supported. In the FIG. 6C embodiment, each advertising catalog 680
24
is associated with a corresponding set of inventory data. For example, a catalog
A 680(a) includes inventory data A.
In the FIG. 6C embodiment, inventory data may include any desired type
of information. For example, inventory data may include, but is not limited to, a
series of inventory items with corresponding inventory amounts and reminder
thresholds. The inventory items may include any types of products, services, or
other consumable items that are designated by device users or any other
appropriate entities as inventory items. In the FIG. 6C embodiment, catalog
manager 664 (FIG. 6B) continually populates and updates the advertising
catalogs 680 by analyzing catalog metadata 240 provided by transport
structures 210 or other appropriate information sources.
In the FIG. 6C embodiment, catalog manager 664 may continually
compare inventory amounts with specified reminder thresholds for the
respective inventory items. Catalog manager 664 may thus generate and send
appropriate reminder information 262 (FIG. 2A) to targeted device users when
reminder thresholds are reached. The implementation and utilization of catalog
information 668 is further discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 8A-8C.
Referring now to FIG. 7, a block diagram for one embodiment of the ad
server 538 of FIG. 5 is shown, in accordance with the present invention. In the
FIG. 7 embodiment, ad server 538 includes, but is not limited to, a central
processing unit (CPU) 714, a memory 718, a display 738, and one or more
input/output interface(s) (I/O interface(s)) 740. The FIG. 7 embodiment is
presented for purposes of illustration, and in alternate embodiments, ad server
538 may be implemented using components and configurations in addition to,
or instead of, certain of those components and configurations discussed in
conjunction with the FIG. 7 embodiment.
In the FIG. 7 embodiment, CPU 714 may be implemented to include any
appropriate and compatible microprocessor device that preferably executes
software instructions to thereby control and manage the operation of ad server
25
538. The FIG. 7 display 738 may include any effective type of display technology
including a cathode-ray-tube monitor or a liquid-crystal display device with an
appropriate screen for displaying various information to a device user. In the
FIG. 7 embodiment, I/O interface(s) 740 may include one or more input and/or
output interfaces to receive and/or transmit any required types of information
by ad server 538.
In the FIG. 7 embodiment, memory 718 may be implemented to include
any combination of desired storage devices, including, but not limited to, readonly
memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), and various types of nonvolatile
memory, such as floppy disks, memory sticks, compact disks, or hard
disks. In the FIG. 7 embodiment, memory 718 includes, but is not limited to, a
server application 722, a docking port 726, ads 730, and content 734.
In the FIG. 7 embodiment, server application 722 may include program
instructions that are preferably executed by CPU 714 to perform various
functions and operations for ad server 538. The particular nature and
functionality of server application 722 typically varies depending upon factors
such as the specific type and particular functionality of the corresponding ad
server 538. In certain embodiments, server application 722 may analyze
information or instructions from transport server 518 or transport structures
210 to match appropriate media files 250 (FIG. 2B) with targeted device users of
user devices 122 (FIG. 3).
In the FIG. 7 embodiment, docking port 726 may include any effective
interface means for ad server 538 to bi-directionally communicate with one or
more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2) to transfer ads 730, content 734, or any
other types of information. In the FIG. 7 embodiment, ads 730 include
advertising or coupon information that is provided to ad server 538 from any
appropriate entities, such as ad sources 540 (FIG. 5). Similarly, in the FIG. 7
embodiment, content 734 includes electronic content that is provided to ad
server 538 from any appropriate entities, such as content sources 542 (FIG. 5).
26
Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8C, a flowchart of method steps for effectively
supporting an advertising catalog is shown, in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention. The FIG. 8 flowchart is presented for purposes of
illustration, and in alternate embodiments, the present invention may utilize
steps and sequences other than those steps and sequences discussed in
conjunction with the FIG. 8 embodiment.
In step 814 of FIG. 8A, one or more transport structures 210 (FIG. 2A) are
initially created in any effective manner. For example, transport structures 210
may be embedded in user devices 122 during manufacture, and then activated
by device users. Alternately, an appropriate entity (such as a transport server
518) in a distribution system 110 may create or otherwise provide the initial
transport structures 210. In step 818, advertiser metadata 234 from one or
more advertisers 814 may be added to the transport structures 210 in any
desired manner to represent relevant characteristics and advertising goals of the
corresponding advertisers 814.
In step 820, appropriate media files 250 may be created to include
information for dissemination to targeted device users through distribution
system 110. The media files 250 may include any desired information, such as
advertisements 254, content items 258, and reminder information 262. In step
824, device users perform a registration procedure to receive information from
the distribution system 110. During the registration procedure, the device users
typically provide relevant information including, but not limited to, user
metadata 222 and device metadata 226. In step 828, the transport structures
210 are updated to include the metadata provided by the device users during
the foregoing registration procedure. The FIG. 8A process then advances to step
832 of FIG. 8B through connecting letter “A.”
In step 832, catalog metadata 240 is collected from appropriate sources in
any effective manner. For example, catalog metadata 240 may be obtained from
appropriate user devices 122, merchant transaction devices, and intelligent
home appliances and/or storage cabinets. In the FIG. 8 embodiment, the
27
catalog metadata 240 is then utilized to update corresponding information in
one or more transport structures 210 for transfer to a transport server 518.
In step 836, transport server 518 or another appropriate entity analyzes
the metadata provided by the transport structure(s) 210. In step 840, in light of
the foregoing metadata analysis and predefined transmission criteria, the
transport server 518 determines whether to transmit corresponding reminder
information 262 and/or advertising information to targeted device users. If the
specified transmission criteria are satisfied, then in step 844, the transport
server 518 generates appropriate reminder information 262 for targeted device
users by utilizing any effective means. For example, in certain embodiments, a
catalog manager 664 of transport server 518 generates predefined reminder
information 262 related to an advertising catalog 680 when a respective
inventory amount falls below a reminder threshold for a corresponding inventory
item. The FIG. 8B process then advances to step 848 of FIG. 8C through
connecting letter “B.”
In step 848, the transport server 518 transmits the generated reminder
information 262 to the targeted device users by utilizing any effective means.
For example, in certain embodiments, one or more transport structures 210
may be utilized to convey reminder information 262 to respective user devices
122. In step 852, a local display device of a user device 122 displays the
received reminder information 262 for viewing by the device users. In step 856,
the device users may then advantageously utilize the reminder information 262
in any appropriate manner. For example, in certain embodiments, device users
may responsively perform a commercial transactions to obtain one or more
inventory items that are referenced in the reminder information 262.
Finally, in step 860, feedback metadata 242 regarding the reminder
information 262 and/or the commercial transaction may be generated and
provided to advertisers or other interested entities in any effective manner. For
example, in certain embodiments, a user device 122 of a merchant involved in
the commercial transaction may automatically generate feedback metadata 242.
28
In addition, a user device 122 of the device user may alternately generate the
feedback metadata 242. In the FIG. 8C embodiment, the feedback metadata
242 may be transported to advertisers or other interested parties by utilizing one
or more transport structures 210 or other effective techniques. Based upon the
feedback metadata 242, advertisers may thus more accurately analyze the
effectiveness and efficiency of their corresponding advertisements and reminder
strategies. For at least the foregoing reasons, the present invention therefore
provides an improved system and method for effectively supporting an
advertising catalog in an electronic network.
The invention has been explained above with reference to certain
embodiments. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in
light of this disclosure. For example, the present invention may readily be
implemented using certain configurations and techniques other than those
described in the specific embodiments above. Additionally, the present
invention may effectively be used in conjunction with systems other than those
described above. Therefore, these and other variations upon the discussed
embodiments are intended to be covered by the present invention, which is
limited only by the appended claims.
29
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A system for implementing an information distribution network,
comprising:
an information service that is configured to provide information
distribution services through said information distribution network;
user devices that device users utilize to communicate with said
information service for receiving said information distribution
services;
a transport structure that communicates with network entities in said
information distribution network, said transport structure collecting
metadata for identifying and providing reminder information from
said information service to a target user device; and
a transport server that performs a metadata analysis procedure upon said
metadata to responsively generate said reminder information.
2. The system of claim 1 further comprising an advertising catalog of
inventory items that include products, services, and consumable items, certain
of said inventory items being designated by said device users, said advertising
catalog further including inventory data corresponding to respective ones of said
inventory items, said inventory data including current inventory amounts and
reminder thresholds for each of said inventory items.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein said reminder information includes text
messages and audio-visual information to remind a target device user about
purchasing opportunities for said inventory items from said advertising catalog,
said reminder information also including advertising to purchase
complementary items that are indirectly related to said inventory items.
30
4. The system of claim 2 wherein said metadata includes catalog metadata
regarding said inventory items from said advertising catalog, said metadata
including user metadata about said device users, device metadata about said
user devices, geographic location metadata, and advertiser metadata, said
catalog metadata also including current monitored inventory levels for inventory
items from said advertising catalog, and commercial transaction details
involving said device users.
5. The system of claim 2 further comprising a catalog manager that collects
said catalog metadata from said transport server to populate and update said
inventory data of said advertising catalog, said catalog manager comparing said
current inventory amounts to said reminder thresholds, said catalog manager
generating said reminder information when said current inventory amounts fall
below said reminder thresholds.
6. The system of claim 4 further comprising at least one intelligent inventory
storage container that generates said catalog metadata to indicate current
inventory amounts of said inventory items.
7. The system of claim 4 further comprising at least one commercial
transaction device that generates said catalog metadata to indicate commercial
transaction details resulting from said reminder information.
8. The system of claim 4 wherein said catalog metadata includes user
preferences that are provided by said device users to expressly include one or
more of said inventory items in said advertising catalog, said catalog metadata
including user preferences that are created by said device users to expressly ban
specific types of said reminder information.
31
9. The system of claim 1 further comprising feedback metadata regarding
usage characteristics of said reminder information, said feedback metadata
being provided to advertising entities for evaluating how efficiently said reminder
information is being targeted and utilized.
10. The system of claim 4 wherein a customer relationship management
device generates feedback metadata regarding purchase transactions resulting
from said reminder information, said feedback metadata being provided to one
or more advertisers.
11. A user device for utilizing an information distribution network,
comprising:
a device application that a device user utilizes to communicate with an
information service for receiving information distribution services;
a transport structure that communicates with network entities in said
information distribution network, said transport structure collecting
metadata for identifying and providing reminder information from a
transport server of said information service to said user device after
performing a metadata analysis procedure upon said metadata to
responsively generate said reminder information; and
a processor device for controlling said device application.
12. The user device of claim 11 further comprising an advertising catalog of
inventory items that include products, services, and consumable items, certain
of said inventory items being designated by said device user.
13. The user device of claim 12 wherein said metadata includes catalog
metadata regarding said inventory items from said advertising catalog.
32
14. The user device of claim 13 wherein said metadata includes user
metadata about said device user, device metadata about said user device,
geographic location metadata, and advertiser metadata.
15. The user device of claim 13 wherein said reminder information includes
text messages and audio-visual information to remind said device user about
purchasing opportunities for said inventory items from said advertising catalog.
16. A system for implementing an information distribution network
substantially as herein described with reference to the foregoing description and
the accompanying drawings.
Dated this 7th day of May 2010.
To
The Controller of Patents
The Patent Office
India