Claims:
1. A system for time bound availability check of an entity, said system comprising one or more processors coupled with a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors, wherein said system comprises:
a transceiver to control the one or more processors to:
receive, from a first computing device of a user a first interaction request for first interaction of said user with said entity during a first pre-determined time;
generate a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis said first interaction request;
transmit said FIRS to a second computing device of said entity; and
receive, from said second computing device, basis a second interaction of said entity with said FIRS within a second pre-determined time of generation of said FIRS, availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of said second entity for said interaction; and
an analyzer to control the one or more processors to generate a second signal basis analysis of said availability information, said second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of said entity for said first interaction during said first pre-determined time,
wherein said second signal is transmitted by said transceiver to said first computing device.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises a configurator to control the one or more processors to, upon said analyzer determining said non-availability, perform any or a combination of:
generate a third signal and transmit the third signal using said transceiver to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of said any other user with said entity during said first pre-determined time, said third signal indicating non-availability of said first entity for said another first interaction with said any other user during said first pre-determined time; and
recursively generate and transmit, using said transceiver, said FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of said group of entities generates, basis an interaction of said one entity with said FIRS within said second pre-determined time, availability information indicating availability of said one entity for said first interaction during said first pre-determined time , generate a fourth signal based upon such availability information, and transmit, using said transceiver, said fourth signal to said first computing device.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein any of said computing devices are any or a combination of a mobile device, a PC, a laptop or a tablet.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein said system is configured in the cloud and operatively connected using a website or a mobile application to any or a combination of said first computing device, said second computing device, said computing device of said any other user, and said computing devices of said group of pre-selected entities.
5. The system of claim 2, wherein the first user is a patient, said first interaction request is an appointment request, and said entity is a first doctor.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein said FIRS is any or a combination of an SMS, an E-mail, a voice message, and a notification on a mobile device as per preference of said entity.
7. A method for time bound availability check of an entity , said method comprising the steps of :
receiving, at a third computing device from a first computing device of a user a first interaction request for first interaction of said user with said entity during a first pre-determined time;
generating, at said third computing device, a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis said first interaction request;
transmitting, from said third computing device, said FIRS to a second computing device of said entity;
receiving, at said third computing device, from said second computing device within a second pre-determined time of generation of said FIRS availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of said second entity for said interaction;
generating, at said third computing device, a second signal basis analysis of said availability information, said second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of said entity for said first interaction during said first pre-determinedgtim; and,
transmitting, from said third computing device, said second signal to said first computing device.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein upon determination of said non- availability, said method comprising the steps of any or a combination of:
generating at said third computing device a third signal and transmitting from said third computing device the third signal to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of said any other user with said entity during said first pre-determined time, said third signal indicating non-availability of said first entity for said another first interaction with said any other user during said first pre-determined time; and
recursively generating and transmitting from said third computing device, said FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of said group generates, basis an interaction of said one entity with said FIRS within said second pre-determined, availability information indicating availability of said one entity for said first interaction during said first pre-determined time , generating, at said third computing device, a fourth signal based upon such availability information and transmitting from said third computing device, said fourth signal to said first computing device.

, Description:
FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates to checking time bound availability of an entity for an interaction. In particular, it pertains to a system that enables such check in an efficient manner.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Various systems exist for checking availability of different entities (such as lawyers, doctors etc.) for taking consultation with them. However, such entities (for instance doctors) have very flexible and fluid schedules wherein their free time becomes difficult to predict. This unpredictable free time is a waste since it cannot be easily monetized while at the same time, if it was made available to consumers of such services (for instance, patients) it could generate revenue, while at the same time enabling the entity to deliver better service such as health care.
[0004] However, there is no current method to tap into this free time without compromises either for the time or for the service provider (such as choice of doctors) for the user. Some system sexist (for instance, for ‘instant’ online consultation with doctors). However, they assign the first available entity (such as a doctor to a patient) while this may not be acceptable to the patient. Some others provide timeslots a doctor desired by a patient is available and thereby force the patient to choose one of such time slots. Such time schedules may be, for instance, made available via an online calendar of the doctor, or, as is very usually done, be manually advised to a patient when he/she calls into the doctor’s office.
[0005] Since both systems leave the patient not fully satisfied, there is a possibility he/she may ‘drop out’ at the time of appointment and hence increase the probability of the doctor suffering a loss in revenue.
[0006] Hence there is a need in the art for a system and method that optimally matches user’s( for instance a patient ) desired time to that of an entity (for instance , a doctor) desired by him/her, thereby leading to a mutually beneficial business relation.
[0007] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
[0008] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities or dimensions of items, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[0009] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[00010] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[00011] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[00012] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.
[00013] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables optimum utilization of time available with the entity for interaction with different users, while considering time available with the users as well.
[00014] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables different users to fix appointments for interactions with an entity automatically.

SUMMARY
[00015] The present disclosure mainly relates to a system for checking time bound availability of an entity for an interaction with a user that enables optimum utilization of time for both the entity and the user.
[00016] This summary is provided to introduce simplified concepts of a system for time bound availability check of an entity, which are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for use in determining/limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[00017] In an aspect, present disclosure elaborates upon a system for time bound availability check of an entity, the system comprising one or more processors coupled with a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors, wherein the system can include a transceiver to control the one or more processors to: receive, from a first computing device of a user, a first interaction request for first interaction of the user with the entity during a first pre-determined time; generate a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis the first interaction request; transmit the FIRS to a second computing device of the entity; and receive, from the second computing device, basis a second interaction of the entity with the FIRS within a second pre-determined time of generation of the FIRS, availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of the second entity for the interaction.
[00018] In another aspect, the system can include an analyzer to control the one or more processors to generate a second signal basis analysis of the availability information, the second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of the entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time, wherein the second signal is transmitted by the transceiver to the first computing device.
[00019] In yet another aspect, the system can include a configurator to control the one or more processors to, upon the analyzer determining the non-availability, generate a third signal and transmit the third signal using the transceiver to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of the any other user with the entity during the first pre-determined time, the third signal indicating non-availability of the first entity for the another first interaction with the any other user during the first pre-determined time.
[00020] In yet another aspect, the configurator can control the one or more processors to, upon the analyzer determining the non-availability, recursively generate and transmit, using the transceiver, the FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of the group of entities generates, basis an interaction of the one entity with the FIRS within the second pre-determined time, availability information indicating availability of the one entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time , generate a fourth signal based upon such availability information, and transmit, using the transceiver, the fourth signal to the first computing device.
[00021] In an aspect, any of the computing devices can be any or a combination of a mobile device, a PC, a laptop or a tablet.
[00022] In another aspect, the system can be configured in the cloud and operatively connected using a website or a mobile application to any or a combination of the first computing device, the second computing device, the computing device of the any other user, and the computing devices of the group of pre-selected entities.
[00023] In yet another aspect, the first user can be a patient, the first interaction request can be an appointment request, and the entity can be a first doctor.
[00024] In an aspect, the FIRS can be any or a combination of an SMS, an E-mail, a voice message, and a notification on a mobile device as per preference of the entity.
[00025] In an aspect, present disclosure elaborates upon a method for time bound availability check of an entity , the method including steps of :receiving, at a third computing device from a first computing device of a user a first interaction request for first interaction of the user with the entity during a first pre-determined time; generating, at the third computing device, a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis the first interaction request; and transmitting, from the third computing device, the FIRS to a second computing device of the entity.
[00026] The method can further include steps of : receiving, at the third computing device, from the second computing device within a second pre-determined time of generation of the FIRS availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of the second entity for the interaction; generating, at the third computing device, a second signal basis analysis of the availability information, the second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of the entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time; and transmitting, from the third computing device, the second signal to the first computing device.
[00027] The method can further include steps of, upon determination of the non- availability, generating at the third computing device a third signal and transmitting from the third computing device the third signal to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of the any other user with the entity during the first pre-determined time, the third signal indicating non-availability of the first entity for the another first interaction with the any other user during the first pre-determined time.
[00028] The method can further include steps of, upon determination of the non- availability , recursively generating and transmitting from the third computing device, the FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of the group generates, basis an interaction of the one entity with the FIRS within the second pre-determined, availability information indicating availability of the one entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time , generating, at the third computing device, a fourth signal based upon such availability information and transmitting from the third computing device, the fourth signal to the first computing device.
[00029] The technical problem being solved by the present invention is how to make an entity make optimal use of its time for interaction with different users, while considering the time available with the users as well.
[00030] Proposed invention solves this problem by enabling a user to determine whether an entity the user wants to interact with is available at user-preferred time and if not, enquire from a group of entities next preferred by the user about their availability till one of the group confirms its availability at user-preferred time. As an entity gets booked, its ‘availability’ for the other users for same time is dynamically and automatically eliminated, thereby enabling different users and entities to quickly determine mutually suitable times. In this manner, an entity does not waste time while a user also gets to interact with his preferred entity or one of entities next preferred by him in a very convenient and time saving manner.
[00031] Within the scope of this application it is expressly envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless such features are incompatible.
[00032] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like features.
[00033] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables optimum utilization of time available with the entity for interaction with different users, while considering time available with the users as well.
[00034] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables different users to fix appointments for interactions with an entity automatically.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00035] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure, and wherein:
[00036] FIG. 1 illustrates existing systems of time bound availability checks of an entity (Prior art).
[00037] FIG. 2 illustrates an overall architecture of system disclosed, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00038] FIG. 3 illustrates exemplary components of system disclosed, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00039] FIG.4 illustrates a method of implementing system disclosed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00040] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the proposed disclosure, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00041] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[00042] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[00043] Embodiments of the present invention include various steps, which will be described below. The steps may be performed by hardware components or may be embodied in machine-executable instructions, which may be used to cause a general-purpose or special-purpose processor programmed with the instructions to perform the steps. Alternatively, steps may be performed by a combination of hardware, software, and firmware and/or by human operators.
[00044] Various methods described herein may be practiced by combining one or more machine-readable storage media containing the code according to the present invention with appropriate standard computer hardware to execute the code contained therein. An apparatus for practicing various embodiments of the present invention may involve one or more computers (or one or more processors within a single computer) and storage systems containing or having network access to computer program(s) coded in accordance with various methods described herein, and the method steps of the invention could be accomplished by modules, routines, subroutines, or subparts of a computer program product.
[00045] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[00046] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[00047] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. These exemplary embodiments are provided only for illustrative purposes and so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention disclosed may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Various modifications will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
[00048] Thus, for example, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the diagrams, schematics, illustrations, and the like represent conceptual views or processes illustrating systems and methods embodying this invention. The functions of the various elements shown in the figures may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing associated software. Similarly, any switches shown in the figures are conceptual only. Their function may be carried out through the operation of program logic, through dedicated logic, through the interaction of program control and dedicated logic, or even manually, the particular technique being selectable by the entity implementing this invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art further understand that the exemplary hardware, software, processes, methods, and/or operating systems described herein are for illustrative purposes and, thus, are not intended to be limited to any particular named element.
[00049] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.
[00050] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
[00051] Embodiments of the present invention may be provided as a computer program product, which may include a machine-readable storage medium tangibly embodying thereon instructions, which may be used to program a computer (or other electronic devices) to perform a process. The term “machine-readable storage medium” or “computer-readable storage medium” includes, but is not limited to, fixed (hard) drives, magnetic tape, floppy diskettes, optical disks, compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memories, such as ROMs, PROMs, random access memories (RAMs), programmable read-only memories (PROMs), erasable PROMs (EPROMs), electrically erasable PROMs (EEPROMs), flash memory, magnetic or optical cards, or other type of media/machine-readable medium suitable for storing electronic instructions (e.g., computer programming code, such as software or firmware).A machine-readable medium may include a non-transitory medium in which data can be stored and that does not include carrier waves and/or transitory electronic signals propagating wirelessly or over wired connections. Examples of a non-transitory medium may include, but are not limited to, a magnetic disk or tape, optical storage media such as compact disk (CD) or digital versatile disk (DVD), flash memory, memory or memory devices. A computer-program product may include code and/or machine-executable instructions that may represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.
[00052] Furthermore, embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware or microcode, the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks (e.g., a computer-program product) may be stored in a machine-readable medium. A processor(s) may perform the necessary tasks.
[00053] Systems depicted in some of the figures may be provided in various configurations. In some embodiments, the systems may be configured as a distributed system where one or more components of the system are distributed across one or more networks in a cloud computing system.
[00054] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
[00055] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[00056] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[00057] In an aspect, present disclosure elaborates upon a system for time bound availability check of an entity, the system comprising one or more processors coupled with a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors, wherein the system can include a transceiver to control the one or more processors to: receive, from a first computing device of a user, a first interaction request for first interaction of the user with the entity during a first pre-determined time; generate a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis the first interaction request; transmit the FIRS to a second computing device of the entity; and receive, from the second computing device, basis a second interaction of the entity with the FIRS within a second pre-determined time of generation of the FIRS, availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of the second entity for the interaction.
[00058] In another aspect, the system can include an analyzer to control the one or more processors to generate a second signal basis analysis of the availability information, the second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of the entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time, wherein the second signal is transmitted by the transceiver to the first computing device.
[00059] In yet another aspect, the system can include a configurator to control the one or more processors to, upon the analyzer determining the non-availability, generate a third signal and transmit the third signal using the transceiver to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of the any other user with the entity during the first pre-determined time, the third signal indicating non-availability of the first entity for the another first interaction with the any other user during the first pre-determined time.
[00060] In yet another aspect, the configurator can control the one or more processors to, upon the analyzer determining the non-availability, recursively generate and transmit, using the transceiver, the FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of the group of entities generates, basis an interaction of the one entity with the FIRS within the second pre-determined time, availability information indicating availability of the one entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time , generate a fourth signal based upon such availability information, and transmit, using the transceiver, the fourth signal to the first computing device.
[00061] In an aspect, any of the computing devices can be any or a combination of a mobile device, a PC, a laptop or a tablet.
[00062] In another aspect, the system can be configured in the cloud and operatively connected using a website or a mobile application to any or a combination of the first computing device, the second computing device, the computing device of the any other user, and the computing devices of the group of pre-selected entities.
[00063] In yet another aspect, the first user can be a patient, the first interaction request can be an appointment request, and the entity can be a first doctor.
[00064] In an aspect, the FIRS can be any or a combination of an SMS, an E-mail, a voice message, and a notification on a mobile device as per preference of the entity.
[00065] In an aspect, present disclosure elaborates upon a method for time bound availability check of an entity , the method including steps of : receiving, at a third computing device from a first computing device of a user a first interaction request for first interaction of the user with the entity during a first pre-determined time; generating, at the third computing device, a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis the first interaction request; and transmitting, from the third computing device, the FIRS to a second computing device of the entity.
[00066] The method can further include steps of : receiving, at the third computing device, from the second computing device within a second pre-determined time of generation of the FIRS availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of the second entity for the interaction; generating, at the third computing device, a second signal basis analysis of the availability information, the second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of the entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time; and transmitting, from the third computing device, the second signal to the first computing device.
[00067] The method can further include steps of, upon determination of the non- availability, generating at the third computing device a third signal and transmitting from the third computing device the third signal to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of the any other user with the entity during the first pre-determined time, the third signal indicating non-availability of the first entity for the another first interaction with the any other user during the first pre-determined time.
[00068] The method can further include steps of, upon determination of the non- availability , recursively generating and transmitting from the third computing device, the FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of the group generates, basis an interaction of the one entity with the FIRS within the second pre-determined, availability information indicating availability of the one entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time , generating, at the third computing device, a fourth signal based upon such availability information and transmitting from the third computing device, the fourth signal to the first computing device.
[00069] FIG. 1 illustrates existing systems of time bound availability checks of an entity (Prior art).
[00070] An exemplary embodiment of an appointment system for doctors is described herein. Presently, as illustrated at 102, a patient selects his/her desired doctor. Then the patient may call up the doctor / doctor’s assistant and determine time slots that the doctor is presently available for. Accordingly, the patient may choose a time slot and fix an appointment. The system can easily be enabled online For instance, the doctor can keep a calendar online that can be dynamically updated as his appointments are fixed. Any patient/user can see the calendar online and choose a time slot from those available at the time.
[00071] As can be readily appreciated, in this system the patient is forced to adapt to the doctor’s schedule. Further, in a manual system, many doctors may not wish to display publically their phone numbers due privacy concerns or unnecessary disturbances in their busy schedule.
[00072] In another system, as illustrated at 104, the patient may have a fixed timeslot available to him. Accordingly, he may call up a doctor’s office and incase the doctor is available during the time proceed further. Or else the patient may terminate the transaction and call up another doctor, till he finds one per his time schedule. In an online version, the patient may be looking for an ‘instant’ consultation and the system can allot the first available doctor to the patient. As can be understood, such doctor may not be one desired by the patient. In a manual system, the patient may need to call up a plurality of doctors. As already elaborated, doctors may not wish to display publically their phone numbers due privacy concerns or unnecessary disturbances in their busy schedule.
[00073] In both the above systems, a doctor may suddenly become available (for instance, due to a patient not showing up after fixing an appointment. Such last minute availability cannot be publicized and thereby the doctor may lose revenue, while there may be a patient prepared to pay for his services, provided he was available at the moment.
[00074] Hence, present systems require the patient to compromise on either the choice of time slot or the choice of doctor. Doctors too end up compromising their revenue potential since they do not have predictable free time that can be monetized easily. Further, some present systems require manual efforts at both the patient’s and the doctor’s end since the patient needs to manually call the doctor and the doctor or his/her assistant in turn manually needs to attend the call. In spite of such efforts, both may still not agree to a mutually convenient time. Doctors need to share their phone numbers on public platforms which may lead to lot of wasted calls. Hence, this option is highly cumbersome, time-consuming and inefficient.
[00075] FIG. 2 illustrates an overall architecture of system disclosed, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00076] As illustrated in FIG. 2, proposed system 202 can be operatively connected to different users (shown as U1, U2…UN) via their respective computing devices CD-U1, CD-U2…CD UN. In a similar manner, system 202 can as well be operatively connected to different entities ( that can be service providers such as lawyers, doctors etc.) shown as E1, E2, E3, E4…EN via their respective computing devices illustrated as CD-E1, CD-E2, CD-E3, CD-E4…CD-EN.
[00077] In an aspect, various users and entities can use the proposed system 202 after a registration/authentication system known in the art.
[00078] In an exemplary embodiment, system 202 can be configured in the cloud and connected to different computing devices via Internet. Further, a mobile application / website can be operatively connected to the proposed system 202 in order to provide necessary user interfaces on various computing devices so as to enable various users/entities to operate the system. Computing devices can be any of laptop, PC, smartphone, tablet etc.
[00079] User U1 may seek a first interaction with Entity 1 during a first pre-determined time ( say 10-11AM on 10th August 2018).Using user interfaces provided on his computing device CD-U1, , U1 can generate a first interaction request (FIR) shown as 204-1 that the system 202 can receive. Based upon FIR204-1, proposed system 202 can generate a first interaction request signal (FIRS) 206) and transmit FIRS 206 to computing device CD-E1of entity E1.
[00080] FIRS 206 can be as per preferences provided by Entity E1 to the system. For instance, FIRS 106 can be an SMS, an E-mail, a voice message, a pop-up on the mobile application of the proposed system or any combination of these.
[00081] Upon receipt of FIRS 206, necessary interfaces can be generated on CD-E1 to enable entity E1 to respond appropriately to FIR as to his availability/non-availability for the first interaction. For instance, E1 may be told to press 1on his mobile device if he is available, and press 2 if he is not available. In a similar manner, he may send an e-mail to a pre-determined e-mail id with ‘Yes” in the subject of mail if he is available during time requested by U1, else if he is not available he may instead put ‘No’ in the subject E-mail. Proposed system 202 may be configured to advise CD-E1 to provide such availability information within a second pre-determined time of generation of FIRS. The second pre-determined time may be pre-set in the system, or may be set by user U1 at time of creation of the FIR 204-1.
[00082] This availability information can be received by proposed system 202 from computing device CD-E1 of entity E1, as shown at 210. System 202 can parse this information to generate a second signal that can indicate availability or non-availability of E1 for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time and can transmit this second signal to computing device CD-U1 of user U1 for his further appropriate actions, as illustrated at 212.
[00083] In an exemplary embodiment, E1 may not be available during 10-11AM on 10th Aug. 2018 and he may respond to FIRS 206 accordingly. In an exemplary embodiment, if E1 does not respond to FIRS 206 within the second pre-determined time, availability information 210 may indicate that E1 is not available during the first pre-determined time for which user U1 has raised the FIR. As illustrated in FIG.1, second signal 212 sent to CD-U1 may so indicate, as illustrated at 212.
[00084] Upon the second signal sent to U1 indicating non-availability of E1 for the first interaction, a third signal can be automatically sent to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction the any other user with E1 entity during the first pre-determined time, the third signal indicating non-availability of the first entity for the another first interaction with the any other user during the first pre-determined time.
[00085] For instance, if userU2 sends an FIR 204-2 using his computing device CD-U2, asking for an interaction with E1 during same time as U1 ( i.e.10-11 AM on 10th August 2018), system 202 may automatically end back to CD-U2 a third signal shown as 214-2indicating non-availability of E1 during this time.
[00086] Similarly, if user UN sends an FIR 204-N using his computing device CD-UN, asking for an interaction with E1 during same time as U1 ( i.e.10-11 AM on 10th August 2018), system 202 may automatically end back to CD-UN another third signal shown as 214-Nindicating non-availability of E1 during this time.
[00087] As can be appreciated, in this manner unnecessary disturbance of E1 can be avoided since he has already indicated his non-availability during the first pre-determined period, and E1 can be marked ‘ non-available’ for any FIR for the first pre-determined time.
[00088] In another exemplary embodiment, E1 can be similarly marked ‘non-available’ for any period so specified by him (or for a period pre-set by the proposed system upon his first refusal to an FIR)
[00089] In yet another aspect, once E1 has informed his non-availability for the time ( first pre-determined time ) as required by userU1 for an interaction, the FIRS can be automatically sent recursively and sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of the group generates, basis an interaction of the one entity with the FIRS within the second pre-determined time of generation of the FIRS, availability information indicating availability of the one entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time. Proposed system can receive such availability information and generate a fourth signal based upon such availability information, and transmit the fourth signal to the first computing device.
[00090] For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 2, upon E1 indicating hisnon-availability, FIRS206 can be sent to computing device CD-E2 of E2 but E2 can also indicate his non-availability, as indicated by availability information 216. Next, proposed system can send FIRS 206 to computing device CD-E3 of E3. E3 can indicate that he is available, as shown by availability information 218. Proposed system 202 can on basis of this availability information 218 generate a fourth signal indicating that E3 is available during the first pre-determined time ( for instance, 10-11AM on 10th Aug. 2018) and can transmit this fourth signal to CD-U1 of U1, as shown at 220.
[00091] The group of pre-selected entities can be configured automatically by the proposed system, or can be formed by user U1 per his unique requirement.
[00092] In this manner, proposed system provides a powerful and very convenient way using which different entities (such as doctors and lawyers etc.) can monetize any free time available to them, while increasing satisfaction of their constituents such as patients and litigants etc.It can readily be appreciated that at no time are the entities or the users required to make undue efforts and to a large extent proposed system works in an automatic manner to achieve its objectives.
[00093] FIG. 3 illustrates exemplary components of system disclosed, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00094] FIG. 3 illustrates various components of proposed system 202 for time bound availability check of an entity. In an example, the system 202 may be either implemented in a server/in the cloud to which various computing devices ( such as those of users and those of entities as elaborated in FIG. 2 above ) can be operatively connected using Internet and a website / mobile applications as appropriate.
[00095] The system 202 may include one or more processor(s) 302. The one or more processor(s) 302 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the one or more processor(s) 302 are configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory 306 of the system 202. The memory 306 may store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines, which may be fetched and executed to create or share the data units over a network service. The memory 306 may include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as RAM, or non-volatile memory such as EPROM, flash memory, and the like.
[00096] The system 200 may also include an interface(s) 304. The interface(s) 304 may include a variety of interfaces, for example, interfaces for data input and output devices, referred to as I/O devices, storage devices, and the like. The interface(s) 304 may facilitate communication of the system 202 with various devices coupled to the system 202. The interface(s) 304 may also provide a communication pathway for one or more components /units of the system 202. Examples of such components include, but are not limited to, units such as transceiver308, analyzer 310, configurator 312, and other units 314.
[00097] Various components /units of the proposed system 202 may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement their one or more functionalities as elaborated further themselves or using processors 302. In examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the units may be processor executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for units may include a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the machine-readable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implements the various units. In such examples, the system 202 may include the machine-readable storage medium storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the machine-readable storage medium may be separate but accessible to system 202 and the processing resource. In other examples, the units may be implemented by electronic circuitry. Other units 314 may include data that is either stored or generated as a result of functionalities implemented by any of the other components /units of the proposed system 202.
[00098] As described above, proposed system 202 can include transceiver308, analyzer 310 and configurator 312 that are further described hereunder.
Transceiver 308
[00099] In an aspect, transceiver 308 can control the one or more processors to :receive from a first computing device of a user a first interaction request for first interaction of the user with the entity during a first pre-determined time; generate a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis the first interaction request; transmit the FIRS to a second computing device of the entity; and receive, from the second computing device basis a second interaction of the entity with the FIRS within a second pre-determined time of generation of the FIRS, availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of the second entity for the interaction.
[000100] Further, transceiver 308 can transmit the second signal(generated as elaborated hereunder) to the first computing device.
[000101] In an exemplary embodiment, transceiver 308 can be any device, having both a transmitter and a receiver that are combined and share common circuitry or a single housing for receiving and/or transmitting data from/to a device.
Analyzer 310
[000102] In an aspect, analyzer 310 can control the one or more processors 302 to generate a second signal basis analysis of the availability information, the second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of the entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time.
[000103] In another aspect, the second signal can be transmitted by the transceiver 308 to the first computing device.
[000104] In an exemplary embodiment, analyzer 310 can be one or more processors dedicatedly used to perform functionalities of analyzer 310 as elaborated above.
Configurator 312
[000105] In an aspect, configurator 312 can control the one or more processors 302 to, upon the analyzer 310 determining the non-availability: generate a third signal and transmit the third signal using the transceiver 308 to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of the any other user with the entity during the first pre-determined time, the third signal indicating non-availability of the first entity for the another first interaction with the any other user during the first pre-determined time
[000106] In another aspect, configurator 312 can control the one or more processors 302 to, upon the analyzer 310 determining the non-availability: recursively generate and transmit, using the transceiver 308, the FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of the group of entities generates, basis an interaction of the one entity with the received FIRS within the second pre-determined time, availability information indicating availability of the one entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time , generate a fourth signal based upon such availability information, and transmit, using the transceiver, the fourth signal to the first computing device.
[000107] In an exemplary embodiment, configurator 312 can be one or more processors dedicatedly used to perform functionalities of configurator 312 as elaborated above.
[000108] In an aspect, any of said computing devices can be any or a combination of a mobile device, a PC, a laptop or a tablet.
[000109] In another aspect, proposed system 202 can be configured in the cloud and be operatively connected using a website or a mobile application to any or a combination of the first computing device, the second computing device, the computing device of the any other user, and the computing devices of the group of pre-selected entities.
[000110] In yet another aspect, the first user can be a patient, the first interaction request can be an appointment request, and the entity can be a first doctor.
[000111] In yet another aspect, the FIRS can be any or a combination of an SMS, an E-mail, a voice message, and a notification on a mobile device as per preference of the entity.
[000112] It would be appreciated that although the proposed system has been elaborated as above to include all the main units, it is completely possible that actual implementations may include only a part of the proposed units or a combination of those or a division of those into sub-units in various combinations across multiple devices that can be operatively coupled with each other, including in the cloud. Further the units can be configured in any sequence to achieve objectives elaborated. Also, it can be appreciated that proposed system can be configured in a computing device or across a plurality of computing devices operatively connected with each other, wherein the computing devices can be any of a computer, a laptop, a smart phone, an Internet enabled mobile device and the like. Therefore, all possible modifications, implementations and embodiments of where and how the proposed system is configured are well within the scope of the present invention.
[000113] FIG.4 illustrates a method of implementing system disclosed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[000114] In an aspect, the proposed method as elaborated hereunder can be described in general context of computer executable instructions. Generally, computer executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, functions, etc., that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The method can also be practiced in a distributed computing environment where functions are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, computer executable instructions may be located in both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.
[000115] The order in which the method as described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks can be combined in any order to implement the method or alternate methods. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the method without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof. However, for ease of explanation, in the embodiments described below, the method may be considered to be implemented in the above described system.
[000116] In an aspect, a method for time bound availability check of an entity can include the steps of, at step 402, receiving, at a third computing device from a first computing device of a user a first interaction request for first interaction of the user with the entity during a first pre-determined time; and at step 404 generating, at the third computing device, a first interaction request signal (FIRS) basis the first interaction request.
[000117] The method can include at step 406, transmitting, from the third computing device, the FIRS to a second computing device of the entity;and at step 408 receiving, at the third computing device, from the second computing device within a second pre-determined time of generation of the FIRS, availability information pertaining to availability or non-availability of the second entity for the interaction; and
[000118] The method can further include at step 410, generating, at the third computing device, a second signal basis analysis of the availability information, the second signal indicative of availability or non-availability of the entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time; and at step 412transmitting, from the third computing device, the second signal to the first computing device.
[000119] The method can further include steps of, upon determination of the non- availability, generating at the third computing device a third signal and transmitting from the third computing device the third signal to computing device of any other user sending another first interaction request requesting another first interaction of the any other user with the entity during the first pre-determined time, the third signal indicating non-availability of the first entity for the another first interaction with the any other user during the first pre-determined time.
[000120] The method can further include steps of, upon determination of the non- availability , recursively generating and transmitting from the third computing device, the FIRS sequentially to computing devices of a group of pre-selected entities , until computing device of one entity of the group generates, basis an interaction of the one entity with the FIRS within the second pre-determined, availability information indicating availability of the one entity for the first interaction during the first pre-determined time , generating, at the third computing device, a fourth signal based upon such availability information and transmitting from the third computing device, the fourth signal to the first computing device.
[000121] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the proposed disclosure, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[000122] In an exemplary embodiment, proposed system can be used by a patient for fixing an appointment /interaction with a doctor. In such an example, the system can be termed as system for time-bound availability check of doctors for interaction, or TACDI, wherein the patient seeks a match between his/her preferred time slot ( that can as well be present instant for various situations, for example, telecounselling) with availability of his/her preferred doctor without any direct human-to-human interaction. In contrast with earlier systems as elaborated above, proposed system allows a user (interchangeably termed as a patient herein) to automatically check the real-time availability of their preferred doctor(s) for an interaction (that could be digital interaction over computer enabled platforms and networks as well, along with usual), instead of being auto-assigned the first available doctor from a predefined pool.
[000123] In a preferred embodiment, proposed system enables a patient (or a first user or an interaction seeker, the term used interchangeably herein) to immediately interact digitally with another entity (a service provider such as a lawyer or a doctor, such entity interchangeably termed herein as interaction approver or approver) after making a booking for such an interaction using proposed system that can be configured as a website or as a mobile application, or both.
[000124] As shown at 502, an interaction seeker (patient) can open a mobile application / website enabled by the proposed system and select an approver (doctor) with whom he/she wishes to immediately digitally interact with. For the purpose, the patient can click on a button on the mobile application or website to initiate a check /interaction request for the approver’s availability for an immediate digital interaction (e.g. video call, chat, audio call).
[000125] As shown at 504, the seeker can be shown a progress bar on his mobile device while proposed system begins in background real-time availability check of the approver for an immediate digital interaction. The progress bar can show a pre-set time (that can be pre-configured or may even be set by the seeker within which the approver’s response is expected to the interaction request.
[000126] Upon receipt of the interaction request, proposed system can check the selected doctor’s contact preference i.e. his /her preferred mode of contact as shown at 506. Accordingly, as shown at 508, proposed system can send out an interaction request signal. For instance, a phone call with an appropriate message can be played out to the approver /doctor informing the doctor that a seeker wishes to check his availability for an immediate interaction. Or proposed system can send a push message that can be displayed on mobile application of the proposed system.
[000127] As shown at 510, if the approver is available for the interaction (that is, he accepts the interaction request i.e. he is available), he/she can indicate his/her acceptance by appropriate means. For instance, he can press a pre-determined number on his mobile device’s keypad. Or, the display on his mobile device can have two buttons market ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ and he can select accordingly. Or he can respond to the IVR message received per instructions of the message. The approver may simply cut the call, thereby indicating his refusal. Or, he/she may not respond within a pre-determined time, thereby as well signaling his/her refusal. All such methods and their modifications / combinations are fully a part of the present disclosure.
[000128] As shown at 512, once the approver has made a choice (acceptance or refusal of the seeker’s request), the progress bar on the seeker’s mobile device can be interrupted and the approver’s choice can be communicated to the seeker /patient. In case the approver agrees to interact with the seeker instantly (or at a pre-determined time as indicated by the seeker in his request), proposed system can enable a payment mechanism known in the art based which the seeker can make payment, thereby firming up the appointment. In case the approver does not respond. In case the approver does not respond within the pre-set time, or refuses interaction request within the pre-set time, the process can terminate with are fusal signal sent to the seeker.
[000129] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term “coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other or in contact with each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms “coupled to” and “coupled with” are used synonymously. Within the context of this document terms “coupled to” and “coupled with” are also used euphemistically to mean “communicatively coupled with” over a network, where two or more devices are able to exchange data with each other over the network, possibly via one or more intermediary device.
[000130] Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.
[000131] While the invention has been disclosed using an example of a patient seeking an appointment with a doctor, it can readily be understood that concepts and techniques disclosed herein can easily be extended to any two or more entities seeking to fix a mutual time for interaction with each other. For instance, users can be litigants and entities can be lawyers. Or users can include both doctors and litigants (and any similar service seekers, for instance car owners), while entities can include both doctors and patients (and any similar service providers, for instance car mechanics). All such embodiments and their modifications and combinations are fully a part of the present disclosure.
[000132] Hence, while some embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, those are completely exemplary in nature. The disclosure is not limited to the embodiments as elaborated herein only and it would be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. All such modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents are completely within the scope of the present disclosure. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[000133] The present disclosure provides a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables optimum utilization of time available with the entity for interaction with different users, while considering time available with the users as well.
[000134] The present disclosure provides a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables different users to fix appointments for interactions with an entity automatically.
[000135] The present disclosure provides a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables different users to fix appointments with the entity in a highly efficient manner with no disturbances to each other.
[000136] The present disclosure provides a system for time bound availability check of an entity that enables the entity to monetize dynamically any free time it has.