Unnamed: 0 int64 0 350k | level_0 int64 0 351k | ApplicationNumber int64 9.75M 96.1M | ArtUnit int64 1.6k 3.99k | Abstract stringlengths 1 8.37k | Claims stringlengths 3 292k | abstract-claims stringlengths 68 293k | TechCenter int64 1.6k 3.9k |
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13,300 | 13,300 | 15,010,982 | 3,655 | A drive train is used at least including an input shaft and an output shaft. A clutch member is rotatable by a clutch shaft about an axis of rotation. The clutch shaft is supported for lateral movement along the axis of rotation to move the clutch member to cooperate with the drive train at a first lateral position to cause the output shaft to turn and to move the clutch member to a second lateral position to disengage the output shaft from rotation of the input shaft. A permanent magnet is supported by one end of the clutch shaft and arranged for receiving an external magnetic biasing force along the axis of rotation to selectively move the clutch member between the first and second lateral positions. A traveling shaft can be used to support a selected gear for movement by the permanent magnet to implement transmission and reversing configurations. | 1. An apparatus for use in a drive train at least including an input shaft and an output shaft, said apparatus comprising:
a gear configured to rotate about an axis of rotation; a traveling shaft supporting said gear for rotation about said axis of rotation and having a pair of opposing ends and said traveling shaft further supported for lateral movement along said axis of rotation such that the gear is movable to a first lateral position to rotate the output shaft responsive to rotation of the input shaft and movable to a second lateral position such that rotation of the input shaft does not rotate the output shaft and wherein one end of the opposing ends of the traveling shaft is a free end; and a permanent magnet that is fixedly mounted on the free end of said traveling shaft for movement with the traveling shaft to move the gear between the first lateral position and the second lateral position responsive to exposure of the permanent magnet to an external magnetic field. 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said permanent magnet includes opposing north and south poles and said traveling shaft supports the permanent magnet with one of the north and south poles facing outward with respect to the free end of the traveling shaft and the other one of the north and south poles confronting the free end of the traveling shaft. 3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein said permanent magnet is positioned to compensate for an unbalanced condition of the traveling shaft to provide for balanced rotation of the traveling shaft. 4. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:
an actuator that is configured for producing the external magnetic field to cause said permanent magnet to move said traveling shaft and, thereby, said gear away from the second lateral position to continuously magnetically bias the gear into said first lateral position, and for producing the external magnetic field in an opposite orientation to cause the permanent magnet to move the gear away from the first lateral position to continuously magnetically bias the gear into said second lateral position. 5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said permanent magnet includes a north pole and a south pole that are arranged such that a projection of the north and south poles onto said axis of rotation results in an offset along said axis between projected north and south pole positions. | A drive train is used at least including an input shaft and an output shaft. A clutch member is rotatable by a clutch shaft about an axis of rotation. The clutch shaft is supported for lateral movement along the axis of rotation to move the clutch member to cooperate with the drive train at a first lateral position to cause the output shaft to turn and to move the clutch member to a second lateral position to disengage the output shaft from rotation of the input shaft. A permanent magnet is supported by one end of the clutch shaft and arranged for receiving an external magnetic biasing force along the axis of rotation to selectively move the clutch member between the first and second lateral positions. A traveling shaft can be used to support a selected gear for movement by the permanent magnet to implement transmission and reversing configurations.1. An apparatus for use in a drive train at least including an input shaft and an output shaft, said apparatus comprising:
a gear configured to rotate about an axis of rotation; a traveling shaft supporting said gear for rotation about said axis of rotation and having a pair of opposing ends and said traveling shaft further supported for lateral movement along said axis of rotation such that the gear is movable to a first lateral position to rotate the output shaft responsive to rotation of the input shaft and movable to a second lateral position such that rotation of the input shaft does not rotate the output shaft and wherein one end of the opposing ends of the traveling shaft is a free end; and a permanent magnet that is fixedly mounted on the free end of said traveling shaft for movement with the traveling shaft to move the gear between the first lateral position and the second lateral position responsive to exposure of the permanent magnet to an external magnetic field. 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said permanent magnet includes opposing north and south poles and said traveling shaft supports the permanent magnet with one of the north and south poles facing outward with respect to the free end of the traveling shaft and the other one of the north and south poles confronting the free end of the traveling shaft. 3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein said permanent magnet is positioned to compensate for an unbalanced condition of the traveling shaft to provide for balanced rotation of the traveling shaft. 4. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:
an actuator that is configured for producing the external magnetic field to cause said permanent magnet to move said traveling shaft and, thereby, said gear away from the second lateral position to continuously magnetically bias the gear into said first lateral position, and for producing the external magnetic field in an opposite orientation to cause the permanent magnet to move the gear away from the first lateral position to continuously magnetically bias the gear into said second lateral position. 5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said permanent magnet includes a north pole and a south pole that are arranged such that a projection of the north and south poles onto said axis of rotation results in an offset along said axis between projected north and south pole positions. | 3,600 |
13,301 | 13,301 | 14,579,365 | 3,646 | Multiple radio transmissions are processed to determine, for each of a number of directions of arrival of the radio transmissions, a most direct direction of arrival, for example, to distinguish a direct path from a reflected path from the target. In some examples, the radio transmissions include multiple frequency components, and channel characteristics at different frequencies are compared to determine the direct path. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving a plurality of radio transmissions from a target device, each radio transmission of the plurality of radio transmissions being received at a plurality of antennas at known locations, wherein each radio transmission comprises a plurality of components at different transmission frequencies; processing the received radio transmissions to determine, for each of a plurality of directions of arrival of the radio transmissions, a characterization of a channel from the target device, the characterization of the channel including characterizations of the channel at the different transmission frequencies of the components of the radio transmissions, wherein at least one of the directions of arrival corresponds to a reflected path from the target device to the locations of the antenna; and determining a most direct direction of arrival from the plurality of directions of arrival, including computing for each direction of arrival a quantity representing a path length from the target using the characterization of the channel for the direction of arrival at the different transmission frequencies, and comparing said computed quantities to determine the most direct direction. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein computing the quantity representing a path length comprises computing a quantity representing a relative path length relative to one or more other directions of arrival. 3. The method of claim 2 wherein comparing said computed quantities to determine the most direct direction comprises selecting the direction of arrival with the smallest relative path length of the plurality of directions of arrival. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising determining the plurality of directions of arrival by processing the received radio transmissions and identifying directions of arrival with local maximum energy over a range of directions of arrival. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the radio transmissions comprise frequency division multiplexed encodings of transmission data. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the radio transmissions comprise Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexed (OFDM) encodings of transmission data. 7. The method of claim 5 wherein processing the received radio transmissions, for each of the plurality of directions of arrival, includes determining a phase response of a channel from the target device to a location of the plurality of antennas at each of the different transmission frequencies. 8. The method of claim 7 wherein determining the quantity representing the path length includes determining a quantity characterizing a relationship between the phase response and the frequency at each of the different transmission frequencies. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the quantity characterizing a relationship between the phase response and the frequency comprises a quantity characterizing rate of change of phase response as a function of frequency. 10. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving the plurality of radio transmissions from a target device at the plurality of antennas at known locations includes, for each radio transmission receiving said radio transmission at an array of fixed antennas comprising a first antenna and a plurality of other antennas all at fixed locations. 11. The method of claim 10 wherein processing the received radio transmissions to determine the characterization of the channel from the target device for each of the plurality of directions of arrival includes combining channel estimates from the target each antenna of the array of fixed antennas. 12. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving and processing the plurality of radio transmissions from a target device at the plurality of antennas at known locations includes applying a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) approach. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving the plurality of radio transmissions from a target device at the plurality of antennas at known locations includes, for each radio transmission receiving said radio transmission at a first antenna at a fixed location, and at a second moving antenna. 14. The method of claim 11 wherein processing the received radio transmissions to determine the characterization of the channel from the target device for each of the plurality of directions of arrival includes combining channel estimates from the target to the first antenna and to the second moving antenna at each of the different transmission frequencies. 15. The method of claim 1 wherein the target device comprises at least one of a wide area cellular communication device and a wireless local area network device. 16. A localization system comprising:
a plurality of antenna; a receiver coupled to the plurality of antennas for receiving radio signals acquired at the plurality of antennas; a signal processor coupled to the receiver configured to processing a plurality radio transmissions from a target radio device to determine a most direct direction of arrival, wherein each radio transmission comprises a plurality of components at different transmission frequencies, the signal processor being configured to
processing the received radio transmissions to determine, for each of a plurality of directions of arrival of the radio transmissions, a characterization of a channel from the target device, the characterization of the channel including characterizations of the channel at the different transmission frequencies of the components of the radio transmissions, wherein at least one of the directions of arrival corresponds to a reflected path from the target device to the locations of the antenna, and
determining a most direct direction of arrival from the plurality of directions of arrival, including computing for each direction of arrival a quantity representing a path length from the target using the characterization of the channel for the direction of arrival at the different transmission frequencies, and comparing said computed quantities to determine the most direct direction. 17. A localization system configured to perform all the steps of claim 1. 18. Software, embodied on a non-transitory machine-readable medium, comprising instructions for causing a processor of a localization system to perform all the steps of claim 1. | Multiple radio transmissions are processed to determine, for each of a number of directions of arrival of the radio transmissions, a most direct direction of arrival, for example, to distinguish a direct path from a reflected path from the target. In some examples, the radio transmissions include multiple frequency components, and channel characteristics at different frequencies are compared to determine the direct path.1. A method comprising:
receiving a plurality of radio transmissions from a target device, each radio transmission of the plurality of radio transmissions being received at a plurality of antennas at known locations, wherein each radio transmission comprises a plurality of components at different transmission frequencies; processing the received radio transmissions to determine, for each of a plurality of directions of arrival of the radio transmissions, a characterization of a channel from the target device, the characterization of the channel including characterizations of the channel at the different transmission frequencies of the components of the radio transmissions, wherein at least one of the directions of arrival corresponds to a reflected path from the target device to the locations of the antenna; and determining a most direct direction of arrival from the plurality of directions of arrival, including computing for each direction of arrival a quantity representing a path length from the target using the characterization of the channel for the direction of arrival at the different transmission frequencies, and comparing said computed quantities to determine the most direct direction. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein computing the quantity representing a path length comprises computing a quantity representing a relative path length relative to one or more other directions of arrival. 3. The method of claim 2 wherein comparing said computed quantities to determine the most direct direction comprises selecting the direction of arrival with the smallest relative path length of the plurality of directions of arrival. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising determining the plurality of directions of arrival by processing the received radio transmissions and identifying directions of arrival with local maximum energy over a range of directions of arrival. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the radio transmissions comprise frequency division multiplexed encodings of transmission data. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the radio transmissions comprise Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexed (OFDM) encodings of transmission data. 7. The method of claim 5 wherein processing the received radio transmissions, for each of the plurality of directions of arrival, includes determining a phase response of a channel from the target device to a location of the plurality of antennas at each of the different transmission frequencies. 8. The method of claim 7 wherein determining the quantity representing the path length includes determining a quantity characterizing a relationship between the phase response and the frequency at each of the different transmission frequencies. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the quantity characterizing a relationship between the phase response and the frequency comprises a quantity characterizing rate of change of phase response as a function of frequency. 10. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving the plurality of radio transmissions from a target device at the plurality of antennas at known locations includes, for each radio transmission receiving said radio transmission at an array of fixed antennas comprising a first antenna and a plurality of other antennas all at fixed locations. 11. The method of claim 10 wherein processing the received radio transmissions to determine the characterization of the channel from the target device for each of the plurality of directions of arrival includes combining channel estimates from the target each antenna of the array of fixed antennas. 12. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving and processing the plurality of radio transmissions from a target device at the plurality of antennas at known locations includes applying a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) approach. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving the plurality of radio transmissions from a target device at the plurality of antennas at known locations includes, for each radio transmission receiving said radio transmission at a first antenna at a fixed location, and at a second moving antenna. 14. The method of claim 11 wherein processing the received radio transmissions to determine the characterization of the channel from the target device for each of the plurality of directions of arrival includes combining channel estimates from the target to the first antenna and to the second moving antenna at each of the different transmission frequencies. 15. The method of claim 1 wherein the target device comprises at least one of a wide area cellular communication device and a wireless local area network device. 16. A localization system comprising:
a plurality of antenna; a receiver coupled to the plurality of antennas for receiving radio signals acquired at the plurality of antennas; a signal processor coupled to the receiver configured to processing a plurality radio transmissions from a target radio device to determine a most direct direction of arrival, wherein each radio transmission comprises a plurality of components at different transmission frequencies, the signal processor being configured to
processing the received radio transmissions to determine, for each of a plurality of directions of arrival of the radio transmissions, a characterization of a channel from the target device, the characterization of the channel including characterizations of the channel at the different transmission frequencies of the components of the radio transmissions, wherein at least one of the directions of arrival corresponds to a reflected path from the target device to the locations of the antenna, and
determining a most direct direction of arrival from the plurality of directions of arrival, including computing for each direction of arrival a quantity representing a path length from the target using the characterization of the channel for the direction of arrival at the different transmission frequencies, and comparing said computed quantities to determine the most direct direction. 17. A localization system configured to perform all the steps of claim 1. 18. Software, embodied on a non-transitory machine-readable medium, comprising instructions for causing a processor of a localization system to perform all the steps of claim 1. | 3,600 |
13,302 | 13,302 | 14,991,969 | 3,662 | A method for monitoring a vehicle, the method comprising: determining, by a computer, whether a pairing between a vehicle and a mobile device associated with the vehicle succeeded; applying, by the computer, a first monitoring process when the pairing succeeded; and applying, by the computer, a second monitoring process that differs from the first monitoring process when the pairing failed. | 1. A method for monitoring a vehicle, the method comprising:
determining, by a computer, whether a pairing between a vehicle and a mobile device associated with the vehicle succeeded; applying, by the computer, a first monitoring process when the pairing succeeded; and applying, by the computer, a second monitoring process that differs from the first monitoring process when the pairing failed. 2. The method according to claim 1 comprising associating the mobile device with the vehicle before the determining whether the pairing succeeded. 3. The method according to claim 2 wherein the associating comprising maintaining a data structure that stores vehicle identification information and identification information of one or more mobile device associated with the vehicle. 4. The method according to claim 1 wherein the mobile device is a mobile phone of a driver that is associated with the vehicle. 5. The method according to claim 1 comprising receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 6. The method according to claim 5 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded is responsive to a relationship between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle. 7. The method according to claim 6 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded comprising determining that the pairing failed when a distance between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle exceeds a distance threshold. 8. The method according to claim 6 wherein the information about a location of the vehicle comprises an identity of cellular network cells sensed by the vehicle monitor. 9. The method according to claim 1 comprising determining that the pairing failed when the computer failed to receive a pairing success confirmation within a predefined period after a reception of a vehicle ignition notification. 10. The method according to claim 1 comprising determining, by the computer, that the pairing failed upon a reception of a pairing failure notification from at least one of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle and a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle. 11. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises validating an identity of a driver of the vehicle. 12. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises sending, by the computer to a control center, an alert. 13. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises disabling the vehicle. 14. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises checking whether the vehicle exited a predefined geographical region. 15. The method according to claim 14 comprising generating an alert when the vehicle exited the predefined geographical region. 16. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises notifying a person associated with the vehicle about a failure of the pairing. 17. The method according to claim 1 comprising: receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by an activity sensor located outside the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 18. The method according to claim 1 comprising receiving an activity indication about an activity related to the vehicle and triggering the determining of whether the pairing succeeded in response to the activity indication. 19. A non-transitory computer readable medium that stores instructions that once executed by a computer cause the computer to execute the steps of:
determining, by a computer, whether a pairing between a vehicle and a mobile device associated with the vehicle succeeded; applying, by the computer, a first monitoring process when the pairing succeeded; and applying, by the computer, a second monitoring process that differs from the first monitoring process when the pairing failed. 20. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for associating the mobile device with the vehicle before the determining whether the pairing succeeded. 21. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 20 wherein the associating comprising maintaining a data structure that stores vehicle identification information and identification information of one or more mobile device associated with the vehicle. 22. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the mobile device is a mobile phone of a driver that is associated with the vehicle. 23. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 24. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 23 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded is responsive to a relationship between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle. 25. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 24 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded comprising determining that the pairing failed when a distance between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle exceeds a distance threshold. 26. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 24 wherein the information about a location of the vehicle comprises an identity of cellular network cells sensed by the vehicle monitor. 27. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for determining that the pairing failed when the computer failed to receive a pairing success confirmation within a predefined period after a reception of a vehicle ignition notification. 28. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for determining, by the computer, that the pairing failed upon a reception of a pairing failure notification from at least one of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle and a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle. 29. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises validating an identity of a driver of the vehicle. 30. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises sending, by the computer to a control center, an alert. 31. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises disabling the vehicle. 32. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises checking whether the vehicle exited a predefined geographical region. 33. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 32 that stores instructions for generating an alert when the vehicle exited the predefined geographical region. 34. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises notifying a person associated with the vehicle about a failure of the pairing. 35. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by an activity sensor located outside the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 36. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for receiving an activity indication about an activity related to the vehicle and triggering the determining of whether the pairing succeeded in response to the activity indication. 37. A vehicle monitor, comprising a controller and a transceiver; wherein the vehicle monitor is configured to receive or generate an activity indication about an activity related to the vehicle; to participate, in response to the activity indication, in an attempt to pair the vehicle monitor with a mobile device associated with the vehicle; and wherein the transceiver is configured to transmit an indication upon a failure of the attempt to pair. 38. The vehicle monitor according to claim 37 wherein the activity indication is an ignition indication. | A method for monitoring a vehicle, the method comprising: determining, by a computer, whether a pairing between a vehicle and a mobile device associated with the vehicle succeeded; applying, by the computer, a first monitoring process when the pairing succeeded; and applying, by the computer, a second monitoring process that differs from the first monitoring process when the pairing failed.1. A method for monitoring a vehicle, the method comprising:
determining, by a computer, whether a pairing between a vehicle and a mobile device associated with the vehicle succeeded; applying, by the computer, a first monitoring process when the pairing succeeded; and applying, by the computer, a second monitoring process that differs from the first monitoring process when the pairing failed. 2. The method according to claim 1 comprising associating the mobile device with the vehicle before the determining whether the pairing succeeded. 3. The method according to claim 2 wherein the associating comprising maintaining a data structure that stores vehicle identification information and identification information of one or more mobile device associated with the vehicle. 4. The method according to claim 1 wherein the mobile device is a mobile phone of a driver that is associated with the vehicle. 5. The method according to claim 1 comprising receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 6. The method according to claim 5 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded is responsive to a relationship between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle. 7. The method according to claim 6 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded comprising determining that the pairing failed when a distance between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle exceeds a distance threshold. 8. The method according to claim 6 wherein the information about a location of the vehicle comprises an identity of cellular network cells sensed by the vehicle monitor. 9. The method according to claim 1 comprising determining that the pairing failed when the computer failed to receive a pairing success confirmation within a predefined period after a reception of a vehicle ignition notification. 10. The method according to claim 1 comprising determining, by the computer, that the pairing failed upon a reception of a pairing failure notification from at least one of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle and a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle. 11. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises validating an identity of a driver of the vehicle. 12. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises sending, by the computer to a control center, an alert. 13. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises disabling the vehicle. 14. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises checking whether the vehicle exited a predefined geographical region. 15. The method according to claim 14 comprising generating an alert when the vehicle exited the predefined geographical region. 16. The method according to claim 1 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises notifying a person associated with the vehicle about a failure of the pairing. 17. The method according to claim 1 comprising: receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by an activity sensor located outside the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 18. The method according to claim 1 comprising receiving an activity indication about an activity related to the vehicle and triggering the determining of whether the pairing succeeded in response to the activity indication. 19. A non-transitory computer readable medium that stores instructions that once executed by a computer cause the computer to execute the steps of:
determining, by a computer, whether a pairing between a vehicle and a mobile device associated with the vehicle succeeded; applying, by the computer, a first monitoring process when the pairing succeeded; and applying, by the computer, a second monitoring process that differs from the first monitoring process when the pairing failed. 20. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for associating the mobile device with the vehicle before the determining whether the pairing succeeded. 21. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 20 wherein the associating comprising maintaining a data structure that stores vehicle identification information and identification information of one or more mobile device associated with the vehicle. 22. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the mobile device is a mobile phone of a driver that is associated with the vehicle. 23. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 24. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 23 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded is responsive to a relationship between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle. 25. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 24 wherein the determining whether the pairing succeeded comprising determining that the pairing failed when a distance between the location of the vehicle and the location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle exceeds a distance threshold. 26. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 24 wherein the information about a location of the vehicle comprises an identity of cellular network cells sensed by the vehicle monitor. 27. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for determining that the pairing failed when the computer failed to receive a pairing success confirmation within a predefined period after a reception of a vehicle ignition notification. 28. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for determining, by the computer, that the pairing failed upon a reception of a pairing failure notification from at least one of the mobile device associated with the vehicle of the vehicle and a vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle. 29. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises validating an identity of a driver of the vehicle. 30. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises sending, by the computer to a control center, an alert. 31. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises disabling the vehicle. 32. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises checking whether the vehicle exited a predefined geographical region. 33. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 32 that stores instructions for generating an alert when the vehicle exited the predefined geographical region. 34. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 wherein the applying of the second monitoring process comprises notifying a person associated with the vehicle about a failure of the pairing. 35. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the vehicle, wherein the information about the location of the vehicle is generated by an activity sensor located outside the vehicle; and receiving, by the computer, information about a location of the mobile device associated with the vehicle. 36. The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 19 that stores instructions for receiving an activity indication about an activity related to the vehicle and triggering the determining of whether the pairing succeeded in response to the activity indication. 37. A vehicle monitor, comprising a controller and a transceiver; wherein the vehicle monitor is configured to receive or generate an activity indication about an activity related to the vehicle; to participate, in response to the activity indication, in an attempt to pair the vehicle monitor with a mobile device associated with the vehicle; and wherein the transceiver is configured to transmit an indication upon a failure of the attempt to pair. 38. The vehicle monitor according to claim 37 wherein the activity indication is an ignition indication. | 3,600 |
13,303 | 13,303 | 14,482,185 | 3,625 | Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with modifying electronic orders during fulfillment are described. In one embodiment, a computing system includes order logic configured to receive a cancellation request to modify an electronic order that is for one or more items sold through an electronic commerce source. The cancellation request is a request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request. The computing system includes an update logic configured to update the electronic order by modifying fulfillment of the electronic order according to a status and the cancelled quantity. The status indicates progress in fulfilling the electronic order from inventory of the electronic commerce source. | 1. A method, comprising:
tracking a fulfillment process that is being performed to fulfill an order of one or more items purchased through an electronic commerce source by maintaining a status of the order; receiving a cancellation request to cancel selected items from the order, wherein the cancellation request is an electronic request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request; determining a status of the order in the fulfillment process; and updating the order by modifying the fulfillment process of the order according to the status and the cancelled quantity, wherein the status indicates progress in fulfilling the order from an inventory of the electronic commerce source. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein tracking the fulfillment process includes electronically updating the status in response to events during the fulfillment process, wherein receiving the cancellation request occurs during the fulfillment process of the order, wherein cancelling the selected items occurs during the fulfillment process of the order and includes selectively causing a portion of the order to be returned to the inventory according to the cancellation request, wherein the inventory is part of a retail store location, and wherein the fulfillment process for the order includes electronically processing the order, generating pick request to cause the order to be physically picked from the inventory, and completing the order for shipping. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes automatically updating electronic records of the inventory to return a reserved quantity of the one or more items to an available quantity in the records when the status indicates that the order has not been picked, and wherein the reserved quantity is an amount of the one or more items that is reserved from the inventory to account for the ordered quantity when the order is received and not yet picked from the inventory. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes denying the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is complete by not modifying the fulfillment process of the order, wherein the status indicates that the order is: not picked, being pick, partially picked, fully picked, partially shipped or fully shipped. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes generating a reverse pick request that electronically prompts a user to accept or deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is being picked, partially picked, fully picked or partially shipped, wherein a being picked status indicates that at least one item for the ordered has been picked from the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request indicates which items and quantities of the items from the order to return to available inventory, wherein generating the reverse pick request causes the cancelled quantity of the one or more items to be returned to the inventory as available quantities, and wherein an amount of the ordered quantity that exceeds the cancelled quantity remains in the order for the fulfillment process. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes generating a reverse pick request for returning physically picked items to the inventory and wherein the reverse pick request provides a process for returning the cancelled quantities to the inventory as available quantities. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, at a retail location associated with the electronic commerce source, the order from the customer, wherein receiving the order electronically initiates the fulfillment process of the order by reserving the ordered quantity from the inventory. 8. A computing system, comprising:
order logic configured to receive a cancellation request to modify an electronic order that is for one or more items sold through an electronic commerce source, wherein the cancellation request is a request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request; and update logic configured to update the electronic order by modifying fulfillment of the electronic order according to a status and the cancelled quantity, wherein the status indicates progress in fulfilling the electronic order from inventory of the electronic commerce source. 9. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the order logic is configured to receive the cancellation request occurs during fulfillment of the electronic order, wherein modifying fulfillment of the electronic order includes selectively returning a portion of the electronic order to the inventory according to the cancellation request, wherein the inventory is part of a retail store location, and wherein fulfillment of the electronic order includes processing, picking, and completing the order for shipping. 10. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured to update the electronic order by automatically updating records of the inventory to return a reserved quantity of the one or more items to an available quantity in the records when the status indicates that the electronic order has not been picked or when the cancelled quantity has been returned to the inventory from being picked and wherein the reserved quantity is an amount of the one or more items that is reserved from the inventory to account for the ordered quantity when the electronic order is received and not yet picked from the inventory. 11. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the electronic order is complete by not modifying fulfillment of the electronic order, wherein the status indicates that the electronic order is: not picked, being pick, partially picked, fully picked, partially shipped or fully shipped. 12. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured to update the electronic order by generating a reverse pick request that prompts a user to accept or deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the electronic order is being picked, wherein a being picked status indicates that at least one item for the ordered has been picked from the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request indicates which items and quantities of the items from the electronic order to return to available inventory, wherein the update logic is configured to generate the reverse pick request to cause the cancelled quantity of the one or more items to be returned to the inventory as available quantities, and wherein an amount of the ordered quantity that exceeds the cancelled quantity remains in the electronic order for fulfillment. 13. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured to update the electronic order by generating a reverse pick request for returning physically picked items to the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request provides a process to a user for returning the cancelled quantities to the inventory as available quantities and wherein generating a reverse pick includes generating a reverse pick in response to a user indicating that an item is unsuitable for shipment. 14. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the order logic is configured to receive the electronic order from a network communication from the customer and to initiate the fulfillment of the electronic order by reserving the ordered quantity from the inventory, wherein the order logic is configured to electronically track the progress in fulfilling the electronic order, and wherein the order logic is configured to determine the status from records generated from electronically tracking the progress in fulfilling the electronic order. 15. A non-transitory computer storage medium storing instructions for execution by a device, the non-transitory computer storage medium comprising:
instructions configured to:
receive a cancellation request to modify an order that is for one or more items sold through an electronic commerce source, wherein the cancellation request is a request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request; and
update the order by modifying fulfillment of the order according to a status and the cancelled quantity, wherein the status indicates progress in fulfilling the order from inventory of the electronic commerce source, and wherein the inventory is part of a retail store location. 16. The non-transitory computer-storage medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to receive the cancellation request occurs during fulfillment of the order, wherein modifying fulfillment of the order includes selectively returning a portion of the order to the inventory according to the cancellation request, and wherein fulfillment of the order includes processing, picking, and completing the order for shipping. 17. The non-transitory computer-storage medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to update the order by automatically updating records of the inventory to return a reserved quantity of the one or more items to an available quantity in the records when the status indicates that the order has not been picked or when the cancelled quantity has been returned to the inventory from being picked and wherein the reserved quantity is an amount of the one or more items that is reserved from the inventory to account for the ordered quantity when the order is received and not yet picked from the inventory. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is complete by not modifying fulfillment of the order, wherein the status indicates that the order is: not picked, being pick, partially picked, fully picked, partially shipped or fully shipped. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to update the order by generating a reverse pick request that prompts a user to accept or deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is being picked, wherein a being picked, partially picked, fully picked, or partially shipped status indicates that at least one item for the ordered has been picked from the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request indicates which items and quantities of the items from the order to return to available inventory, wherein the instructions are configured to generate the reverse pick request to cause the cancelled quantity of the one or more items to be returned to the inventory as available quantities, and wherein an amount of the ordered quantity that exceeds the cancelled quantity remains in the order for fulfillment. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to receive the order from the customer and to initiate the fulfillment of the order by reserving the ordered quantity from the inventory. | Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with modifying electronic orders during fulfillment are described. In one embodiment, a computing system includes order logic configured to receive a cancellation request to modify an electronic order that is for one or more items sold through an electronic commerce source. The cancellation request is a request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request. The computing system includes an update logic configured to update the electronic order by modifying fulfillment of the electronic order according to a status and the cancelled quantity. The status indicates progress in fulfilling the electronic order from inventory of the electronic commerce source.1. A method, comprising:
tracking a fulfillment process that is being performed to fulfill an order of one or more items purchased through an electronic commerce source by maintaining a status of the order; receiving a cancellation request to cancel selected items from the order, wherein the cancellation request is an electronic request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request; determining a status of the order in the fulfillment process; and updating the order by modifying the fulfillment process of the order according to the status and the cancelled quantity, wherein the status indicates progress in fulfilling the order from an inventory of the electronic commerce source. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein tracking the fulfillment process includes electronically updating the status in response to events during the fulfillment process, wherein receiving the cancellation request occurs during the fulfillment process of the order, wherein cancelling the selected items occurs during the fulfillment process of the order and includes selectively causing a portion of the order to be returned to the inventory according to the cancellation request, wherein the inventory is part of a retail store location, and wherein the fulfillment process for the order includes electronically processing the order, generating pick request to cause the order to be physically picked from the inventory, and completing the order for shipping. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes automatically updating electronic records of the inventory to return a reserved quantity of the one or more items to an available quantity in the records when the status indicates that the order has not been picked, and wherein the reserved quantity is an amount of the one or more items that is reserved from the inventory to account for the ordered quantity when the order is received and not yet picked from the inventory. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes denying the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is complete by not modifying the fulfillment process of the order, wherein the status indicates that the order is: not picked, being pick, partially picked, fully picked, partially shipped or fully shipped. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes generating a reverse pick request that electronically prompts a user to accept or deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is being picked, partially picked, fully picked or partially shipped, wherein a being picked status indicates that at least one item for the ordered has been picked from the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request indicates which items and quantities of the items from the order to return to available inventory, wherein generating the reverse pick request causes the cancelled quantity of the one or more items to be returned to the inventory as available quantities, and wherein an amount of the ordered quantity that exceeds the cancelled quantity remains in the order for the fulfillment process. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein updating the order includes generating a reverse pick request for returning physically picked items to the inventory and wherein the reverse pick request provides a process for returning the cancelled quantities to the inventory as available quantities. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, at a retail location associated with the electronic commerce source, the order from the customer, wherein receiving the order electronically initiates the fulfillment process of the order by reserving the ordered quantity from the inventory. 8. A computing system, comprising:
order logic configured to receive a cancellation request to modify an electronic order that is for one or more items sold through an electronic commerce source, wherein the cancellation request is a request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request; and update logic configured to update the electronic order by modifying fulfillment of the electronic order according to a status and the cancelled quantity, wherein the status indicates progress in fulfilling the electronic order from inventory of the electronic commerce source. 9. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the order logic is configured to receive the cancellation request occurs during fulfillment of the electronic order, wherein modifying fulfillment of the electronic order includes selectively returning a portion of the electronic order to the inventory according to the cancellation request, wherein the inventory is part of a retail store location, and wherein fulfillment of the electronic order includes processing, picking, and completing the order for shipping. 10. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured to update the electronic order by automatically updating records of the inventory to return a reserved quantity of the one or more items to an available quantity in the records when the status indicates that the electronic order has not been picked or when the cancelled quantity has been returned to the inventory from being picked and wherein the reserved quantity is an amount of the one or more items that is reserved from the inventory to account for the ordered quantity when the electronic order is received and not yet picked from the inventory. 11. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the electronic order is complete by not modifying fulfillment of the electronic order, wherein the status indicates that the electronic order is: not picked, being pick, partially picked, fully picked, partially shipped or fully shipped. 12. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured to update the electronic order by generating a reverse pick request that prompts a user to accept or deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the electronic order is being picked, wherein a being picked status indicates that at least one item for the ordered has been picked from the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request indicates which items and quantities of the items from the electronic order to return to available inventory, wherein the update logic is configured to generate the reverse pick request to cause the cancelled quantity of the one or more items to be returned to the inventory as available quantities, and wherein an amount of the ordered quantity that exceeds the cancelled quantity remains in the electronic order for fulfillment. 13. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the update logic is configured to update the electronic order by generating a reverse pick request for returning physically picked items to the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request provides a process to a user for returning the cancelled quantities to the inventory as available quantities and wherein generating a reverse pick includes generating a reverse pick in response to a user indicating that an item is unsuitable for shipment. 14. The computing system of claim 8, wherein the order logic is configured to receive the electronic order from a network communication from the customer and to initiate the fulfillment of the electronic order by reserving the ordered quantity from the inventory, wherein the order logic is configured to electronically track the progress in fulfilling the electronic order, and wherein the order logic is configured to determine the status from records generated from electronically tracking the progress in fulfilling the electronic order. 15. A non-transitory computer storage medium storing instructions for execution by a device, the non-transitory computer storage medium comprising:
instructions configured to:
receive a cancellation request to modify an order that is for one or more items sold through an electronic commerce source, wherein the cancellation request is a request from a customer to modify an ordered quantity of the one or more items according to a cancelled quantity indicated in the cancellation request; and
update the order by modifying fulfillment of the order according to a status and the cancelled quantity, wherein the status indicates progress in fulfilling the order from inventory of the electronic commerce source, and wherein the inventory is part of a retail store location. 16. The non-transitory computer-storage medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to receive the cancellation request occurs during fulfillment of the order, wherein modifying fulfillment of the order includes selectively returning a portion of the order to the inventory according to the cancellation request, and wherein fulfillment of the order includes processing, picking, and completing the order for shipping. 17. The non-transitory computer-storage medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to update the order by automatically updating records of the inventory to return a reserved quantity of the one or more items to an available quantity in the records when the status indicates that the order has not been picked or when the cancelled quantity has been returned to the inventory from being picked and wherein the reserved quantity is an amount of the one or more items that is reserved from the inventory to account for the ordered quantity when the order is received and not yet picked from the inventory. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is complete by not modifying fulfillment of the order, wherein the status indicates that the order is: not picked, being pick, partially picked, fully picked, partially shipped or fully shipped. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to update the order by generating a reverse pick request that prompts a user to accept or deny the cancellation request when the status indicates that the order is being picked, wherein a being picked, partially picked, fully picked, or partially shipped status indicates that at least one item for the ordered has been picked from the inventory, wherein the reverse pick request indicates which items and quantities of the items from the order to return to available inventory, wherein the instructions are configured to generate the reverse pick request to cause the cancelled quantity of the one or more items to be returned to the inventory as available quantities, and wherein an amount of the ordered quantity that exceeds the cancelled quantity remains in the order for fulfillment. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the instructions are configured to receive the order from the customer and to initiate the fulfillment of the order by reserving the ordered quantity from the inventory. | 3,600 |
13,304 | 13,304 | 14,775,082 | 3,671 | Methods and apparatus are disclosed for helping to prevent vehicular barrier gate arms from lowering in certain situations (such as if an obstruction such as a person is present), while not impacting the primary operation and function of the barrier arm (which is to lower the arm to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering/exiting an area). | 1. Apparatus for vehicular access control, including:
an access control arm sized and positioned to move between a default closed position (that bars passage by a vehicle) and a temporary open position (that permits passage by a vehicle); a photo-beam sensor that is active during motion of the control arm from the open position to the closed position, and that, upon interruption, stops/reverses the motion of the control arm; and a vehicle sensor positioned and configured to determine whether an interruption of the photo-beam sensor has been caused by a vehicle. 2. A method of vehicular access control, including the steps of:
providing the apparatus of claim; operating the apparatus, including using signals from photo-beam sensor and the vehicle sensor to determine whether downward closing motion of the control arm should continue or instead should stop/reverse. | Methods and apparatus are disclosed for helping to prevent vehicular barrier gate arms from lowering in certain situations (such as if an obstruction such as a person is present), while not impacting the primary operation and function of the barrier arm (which is to lower the arm to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering/exiting an area).1. Apparatus for vehicular access control, including:
an access control arm sized and positioned to move between a default closed position (that bars passage by a vehicle) and a temporary open position (that permits passage by a vehicle); a photo-beam sensor that is active during motion of the control arm from the open position to the closed position, and that, upon interruption, stops/reverses the motion of the control arm; and a vehicle sensor positioned and configured to determine whether an interruption of the photo-beam sensor has been caused by a vehicle. 2. A method of vehicular access control, including the steps of:
providing the apparatus of claim; operating the apparatus, including using signals from photo-beam sensor and the vehicle sensor to determine whether downward closing motion of the control arm should continue or instead should stop/reverse. | 3,600 |
13,305 | 13,305 | 14,527,265 | 3,621 | A communications system may include at least one mobile wireless communications device and an advertising server cooperating with the at least one mobile wireless communications device via a wireless communications network. The advertising server may be for generating an activity history for the at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions at corresponding times of day, and selectively sending advertisements to the at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day. | 1. A communications system comprising:
at least one mobile wireless communications device; and an advertising server communicating with said at least one mobile wireless communications device via a wireless communications network and configured to
generate an activity history for said at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions at corresponding times of day based upon activity within a first geographical region,
determine whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region,
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region, and
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the first geographical region, a given time of day and the different location, when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is at the different location outside of the first geographical region. 2. The communications system of claim 1 wherein if said at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region, then said advertising server further determines whether said at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location and further selectively sends the advertisements based thereon. 3. The communications system of claim 2 wherein said advertising server is configured to selectively send entertainment-related advertisements when said at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 4. The communications system of claim 2 wherein said advertising server is configured to selectively send work-related advertisements when said at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. 5. The communications system of claim 1 wherein said advertising server is configured to selectively send the advertisements also based upon current events at a location of the at least one mobile wireless communications device. 6. The communications system of claim 1 wherein the activity history is based upon movement of said at least one mobile wireless communications device. 7. The communications system of claim 1 wherein the activity history is based upon wireless communications of said at least on mobile wireless communications device. 8. The communications system of claim 1 wherein said at least one mobile wireless communications device comprises a satellite positioning system; and wherein said advertising server determines the geographical positions based upon the satellite positioning system. 9. The communications system of claim 1 wherein said at least one mobile wireless communications device comprises a cellular device; wherein the wireless communications network comprises a cellular network comprising a plurality of base stations; and wherein said advertising server is configured to determine the geographical positions based upon a given base station communicating with said cellular device. 10. An advertising server for communicating with at least one mobile wireless communications device via a wireless communications network and comprising:
a memory and a processor cooperating therewith, said processor configured to
generate an activity history for the at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions at corresponding times of day based upon activity within a first geographical region,
determine whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region, and
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region, and
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the first geographical region, a given time of day and the different location, when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region. 11. The advertising server of claim 10 wherein processor is further configured to determine whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location if the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region, and further selectively send the advertisements based thereon. 12. The advertising server of claim 11 wherein said processor is configured to selectively send entertainment-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 13. The advertising server of claim 11 wherein said processor is configured to selectively send work-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. 14. A communications method comprising:
generating an activity history for at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions thereof at corresponding times of day using an advertising server based upon activity within a first geographical region; determining whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region; and selectively sending advertisements to the at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day using the advertising server when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region; and selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the home geographical region, a given time of day and the different location, using the advertising server, when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein determining if the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the home geographical region using the advertising server includes determining whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location using the advertising server; and wherein selectively sending advertisements comprises selectively sending based upon whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location or the vacation geographical location. 16. The method of claim 15 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending entertainment-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending work-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. 18. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions for causing a computer to perform steps comprising:
generating an activity history for at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions thereof at corresponding times of day based upon activity within a first geographical region; determining whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the home geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region; and selectively sending advertisements to the at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region; and selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the first geographical region, a given time of day and the different location when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 18 further comprising computer-executable instructions for causing the computer to determine if the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location; and wherein selectively sending comprises selectively sending based upon whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location or the vacation geographical location. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 19 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending entertainment-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 21. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 19 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending work-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. | A communications system may include at least one mobile wireless communications device and an advertising server cooperating with the at least one mobile wireless communications device via a wireless communications network. The advertising server may be for generating an activity history for the at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions at corresponding times of day, and selectively sending advertisements to the at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day.1. A communications system comprising:
at least one mobile wireless communications device; and an advertising server communicating with said at least one mobile wireless communications device via a wireless communications network and configured to
generate an activity history for said at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions at corresponding times of day based upon activity within a first geographical region,
determine whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region,
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region, and
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the first geographical region, a given time of day and the different location, when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is at the different location outside of the first geographical region. 2. The communications system of claim 1 wherein if said at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region, then said advertising server further determines whether said at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location and further selectively sends the advertisements based thereon. 3. The communications system of claim 2 wherein said advertising server is configured to selectively send entertainment-related advertisements when said at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 4. The communications system of claim 2 wherein said advertising server is configured to selectively send work-related advertisements when said at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. 5. The communications system of claim 1 wherein said advertising server is configured to selectively send the advertisements also based upon current events at a location of the at least one mobile wireless communications device. 6. The communications system of claim 1 wherein the activity history is based upon movement of said at least one mobile wireless communications device. 7. The communications system of claim 1 wherein the activity history is based upon wireless communications of said at least on mobile wireless communications device. 8. The communications system of claim 1 wherein said at least one mobile wireless communications device comprises a satellite positioning system; and wherein said advertising server determines the geographical positions based upon the satellite positioning system. 9. The communications system of claim 1 wherein said at least one mobile wireless communications device comprises a cellular device; wherein the wireless communications network comprises a cellular network comprising a plurality of base stations; and wherein said advertising server is configured to determine the geographical positions based upon a given base station communicating with said cellular device. 10. An advertising server for communicating with at least one mobile wireless communications device via a wireless communications network and comprising:
a memory and a processor cooperating therewith, said processor configured to
generate an activity history for the at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions at corresponding times of day based upon activity within a first geographical region,
determine whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region, and
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region, and
selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the first geographical region, a given time of day and the different location, when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region. 11. The advertising server of claim 10 wherein processor is further configured to determine whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location if the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region, and further selectively send the advertisements based thereon. 12. The advertising server of claim 11 wherein said processor is configured to selectively send entertainment-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 13. The advertising server of claim 11 wherein said processor is configured to selectively send work-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. 14. A communications method comprising:
generating an activity history for at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions thereof at corresponding times of day using an advertising server based upon activity within a first geographical region; determining whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region; and selectively sending advertisements to the at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day using the advertising server when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region; and selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the home geographical region, a given time of day and the different location, using the advertising server, when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein determining if the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the home geographical region using the advertising server includes determining whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location using the advertising server; and wherein selectively sending advertisements comprises selectively sending based upon whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location or the vacation geographical location. 16. The method of claim 15 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending entertainment-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending work-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. 18. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions for causing a computer to perform steps comprising:
generating an activity history for at least one wireless communications device including geographical positions thereof at corresponding times of day based upon activity within a first geographical region; determining whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the home geographical region or at a different location outside of the first geographical region; and selectively sending advertisements to the at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history and a given time of day when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is within the first geographical region; and selectively send advertisements to said at least one mobile wireless communications device based upon the activity history within the first geographical region, a given time of day and the different location when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is outside of the first geographical region. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 18 further comprising computer-executable instructions for causing the computer to determine if the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in a business geographical location or a vacation geographical location; and wherein selectively sending comprises selectively sending based upon whether the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location or the vacation geographical location. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 19 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending entertainment-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the vacation geographical location. 21. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 19 wherein selectively sending further comprises sending work-related advertisements when the at least one mobile wireless communications device is in the business geographical location. | 3,600 |
13,306 | 13,306 | 13,190,803 | 3,622 | A system and method for syndicating comments received by a gadget that is embedded on different websites using a conversation application. The conversation application includes an authorization module, a code generator, an identity generator, a profile engine, a content parser, a syndication module, an analysis engine, an advertising engine and a newsletter engine. The content parser receives a comment posted by a user from a gadget embedded on a website and identifies the user and the website identifier. The syndication module identifies other websites that include the gadget. The syndication module then syndicates the content on the gadget embedded on the other websites. The analysis engine determines an interest of the user. The advertising engine provides advertisements to the website based on the interest of the user. The newsletter engine generates and sends newsletters to the user based on the interest of the user. | 1. A computer-implemented method for syndicating content received by a gadget, the method comprising:
receiving content posted by a user from the gadget embedded on a second website; identifying the user; identifying a first website on which the gadget is embedded; and syndicating the content on the gadget embedded on the first website. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein syndicating the content comprises transmitting the content that is displayed on the second website to the first website for display. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising obtaining user information from a user profile associated with the user; and
analyzing the content and the user information to generate an analysis that includes an interest of the user. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, further comprising sending the analysis to a developer of the first website. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, further comprising selecting an advertisement to the first website based on the interest of the user. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, further comprising determining whether the user is a public member. 7. The computer implemented method of claim 6, wherein responsive to determining that the user is a public member, further comprising the steps of:
generating a newsletter for the user based on the interest of the user; and sending the newsletter to the user. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising generating a profile associated with the user that is accessible responsive to the user posting the content. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising enabling the user to sign in using an existing profile on the web to post the content. 10. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the content is at least one from the group of text, video, audio, an image and a response to a poll or a questionnaire. 11. The computer implemented method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of:
authorizing a request from a developer of a third website to embed the gadget on the third website; generating a website identifier for the third website; generating a code for embedding the gadget on the third website; and adding the website identifier of the third website to an index, the index including an identifier of the gadget, a website identifier of the first website and a website identifier of the second website. 12. A system for syndicating content received by a gadget, the system comprising:
a content parser for receiving content posted by a user from the gadget embedded on a second website, identifying the user and identifying a first website on which the gadget is embedded; and a syndication module coupled to the content parser, the syndication module for syndicating the content on the gadget embedded on the first website. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the content is syndicated by transmitting the content that is displayed on the second website to the first website for display 14. The system of claim 12, further comprising an analysis engine coupled to the content parser, the analysis engine for obtaining user information, for analyzing the content and the user information to generate an analysis that includes an interest of the user and for transmitting the analysis to a developer of the first website. 15. The system of claim 14, further comprising an advertising engine coupled to the analysis engine, the advertising engine for selecting an advertisement to the first website based on the interest of the user. 16. The system of claim 14, further comprising a newsletter engine coupled to the analysis engine, the newsletter engine for determining whether the user is a public member. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the newsletter engine further generates and sends a newsletter to the user based on the interest of the user responsive to determining that the user is a public member. 18. The system of claim 12, further comprising a profile engine coupled to the content parser, the profile engine for generating a profile for the user to sign in and post the content. 19. The system of claim 12, further comprising an authorization module coupled to the syndication module, the authorization module for authorizing a request from a developer of a third website to embed the gadget on the third website. 20. The system of claim 19, further comprising a code generator coupled to the authorization module, the code generator for generating a code for embedding the gadget on the third website. 21. The system of claim 19, further comprising an identity generator coupled to the authorization module, the identity generator for creating a website identifier for the third website and adding the website identifier of the third website to an index, the index including an identifier of the gadget, an identifier of the first website and an identifier of the second website. 22. A computer program product comprising a computer useable medium including a computer readable program, wherein the computer readable program when executed on a computer causes the computer to:
receive content posted by a user from a gadget embedded on a second website; identify the user; identify a first website on which the gadget is embedded; and syndicate the content on the gadget embedded on the first website. | A system and method for syndicating comments received by a gadget that is embedded on different websites using a conversation application. The conversation application includes an authorization module, a code generator, an identity generator, a profile engine, a content parser, a syndication module, an analysis engine, an advertising engine and a newsletter engine. The content parser receives a comment posted by a user from a gadget embedded on a website and identifies the user and the website identifier. The syndication module identifies other websites that include the gadget. The syndication module then syndicates the content on the gadget embedded on the other websites. The analysis engine determines an interest of the user. The advertising engine provides advertisements to the website based on the interest of the user. The newsletter engine generates and sends newsletters to the user based on the interest of the user.1. A computer-implemented method for syndicating content received by a gadget, the method comprising:
receiving content posted by a user from the gadget embedded on a second website; identifying the user; identifying a first website on which the gadget is embedded; and syndicating the content on the gadget embedded on the first website. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein syndicating the content comprises transmitting the content that is displayed on the second website to the first website for display. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising obtaining user information from a user profile associated with the user; and
analyzing the content and the user information to generate an analysis that includes an interest of the user. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, further comprising sending the analysis to a developer of the first website. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, further comprising selecting an advertisement to the first website based on the interest of the user. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 3, further comprising determining whether the user is a public member. 7. The computer implemented method of claim 6, wherein responsive to determining that the user is a public member, further comprising the steps of:
generating a newsletter for the user based on the interest of the user; and sending the newsletter to the user. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising generating a profile associated with the user that is accessible responsive to the user posting the content. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising enabling the user to sign in using an existing profile on the web to post the content. 10. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the content is at least one from the group of text, video, audio, an image and a response to a poll or a questionnaire. 11. The computer implemented method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of:
authorizing a request from a developer of a third website to embed the gadget on the third website; generating a website identifier for the third website; generating a code for embedding the gadget on the third website; and adding the website identifier of the third website to an index, the index including an identifier of the gadget, a website identifier of the first website and a website identifier of the second website. 12. A system for syndicating content received by a gadget, the system comprising:
a content parser for receiving content posted by a user from the gadget embedded on a second website, identifying the user and identifying a first website on which the gadget is embedded; and a syndication module coupled to the content parser, the syndication module for syndicating the content on the gadget embedded on the first website. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the content is syndicated by transmitting the content that is displayed on the second website to the first website for display 14. The system of claim 12, further comprising an analysis engine coupled to the content parser, the analysis engine for obtaining user information, for analyzing the content and the user information to generate an analysis that includes an interest of the user and for transmitting the analysis to a developer of the first website. 15. The system of claim 14, further comprising an advertising engine coupled to the analysis engine, the advertising engine for selecting an advertisement to the first website based on the interest of the user. 16. The system of claim 14, further comprising a newsletter engine coupled to the analysis engine, the newsletter engine for determining whether the user is a public member. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the newsletter engine further generates and sends a newsletter to the user based on the interest of the user responsive to determining that the user is a public member. 18. The system of claim 12, further comprising a profile engine coupled to the content parser, the profile engine for generating a profile for the user to sign in and post the content. 19. The system of claim 12, further comprising an authorization module coupled to the syndication module, the authorization module for authorizing a request from a developer of a third website to embed the gadget on the third website. 20. The system of claim 19, further comprising a code generator coupled to the authorization module, the code generator for generating a code for embedding the gadget on the third website. 21. The system of claim 19, further comprising an identity generator coupled to the authorization module, the identity generator for creating a website identifier for the third website and adding the website identifier of the third website to an index, the index including an identifier of the gadget, an identifier of the first website and an identifier of the second website. 22. A computer program product comprising a computer useable medium including a computer readable program, wherein the computer readable program when executed on a computer causes the computer to:
receive content posted by a user from a gadget embedded on a second website; identify the user; identify a first website on which the gadget is embedded; and syndicate the content on the gadget embedded on the first website. | 3,600 |
13,307 | 13,307 | 14,945,776 | 3,626 | A medical system includes a transmitter that is attached to a patient to obtain vital sign of the patient, and transmits the vital sign together with position information on a position of the transmitter, and a plurality of portable terminals each of which is carried by a medical staff and displays a position and a condition of the patient based on the position information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter. Each of the portable terminals includes an accepting section accepting an operation of showing that the medical staff carrying the portable terminal is coming to the position of the patient, and a transmitting section that transmits, to the portable terminals other than the portable terminal accepting the operation, information corresponding to acceptance of the operation when the operation is accepted by the accepting section. | 1. A medical system, comprising:
a transmitter that is attached to a patient to obtain vital sign of the patient, and transmits the vital sign together with position information on a position of the transmitter; and a plurality of portable terminals each of which is carried by a medical staff and displays a position and a condition of the patient based on the position information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter, wherein each of the portable terminals includes:
an accepting section accepting an operation of showing that the medical staff carrying the portable terminal is coming to the position of the patient; and
a transmitting section that transmits, to the portable terminals other than the portable terminal accepting the operation, information corresponding to acceptance of the operation when the operation is accepted by the accepting section. 2. A medical system, comprising:
a transmitter that is attached to a patient to obtain vital sign of the patient, and transmits the vital sign together with position information on a position of the transmitter and movement information on movement of the patient; and a plurality of portable terminals each of which is carried by a medical staff and receives the position information, the movement information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter, wherein each of the portable terminals includes an accepting section that, when it is determined that the patient has a risk of falling based on at least one of the position information and the movement information, accepts declaration of caring for the patient in association with a position of the patient. 3. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein each of the portable terminals is of a wristband type that is attachable to an arm of the medical staff or of an eyeglass type that is wearable on a head of the medical staff. 4. The medical system according to claim 2, wherein each of the portable terminals is of a wristband type that is attachable to an arm of the medical staff or of an eyeglass type that is wearable on a head of the medical staff. 5. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein each of the portable terminals is capable of analyzing the vital sign and determining whether a condition of the patient is normal or abnormal based on a result of analysis of the vital sign. 6. The medical system according to claim 2, wherein each of the portable terminals is capable of analyzing the vital sign and determining whether a condition of the patient is normal or abnormal based on a result of analysis of the vital sign. 7. The medical system according to claim 3, wherein each of the portable terminals is capable of analyzing the vital sign and determining whether a condition of the patient is normal or abnormal based on a result of analysis of the vital sign. 8. The medical system according to claim 2, further comprising a receiver monitor that displays the position, the movement and a condition of the patient based on the position information, the movement information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter,
wherein each of the portable terminals or the receiver monitor includes a setting section that sets a threshold value used for determining whether or not the patient needs to be cared for based on the vital sign and the movement information. | A medical system includes a transmitter that is attached to a patient to obtain vital sign of the patient, and transmits the vital sign together with position information on a position of the transmitter, and a plurality of portable terminals each of which is carried by a medical staff and displays a position and a condition of the patient based on the position information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter. Each of the portable terminals includes an accepting section accepting an operation of showing that the medical staff carrying the portable terminal is coming to the position of the patient, and a transmitting section that transmits, to the portable terminals other than the portable terminal accepting the operation, information corresponding to acceptance of the operation when the operation is accepted by the accepting section.1. A medical system, comprising:
a transmitter that is attached to a patient to obtain vital sign of the patient, and transmits the vital sign together with position information on a position of the transmitter; and a plurality of portable terminals each of which is carried by a medical staff and displays a position and a condition of the patient based on the position information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter, wherein each of the portable terminals includes:
an accepting section accepting an operation of showing that the medical staff carrying the portable terminal is coming to the position of the patient; and
a transmitting section that transmits, to the portable terminals other than the portable terminal accepting the operation, information corresponding to acceptance of the operation when the operation is accepted by the accepting section. 2. A medical system, comprising:
a transmitter that is attached to a patient to obtain vital sign of the patient, and transmits the vital sign together with position information on a position of the transmitter and movement information on movement of the patient; and a plurality of portable terminals each of which is carried by a medical staff and receives the position information, the movement information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter, wherein each of the portable terminals includes an accepting section that, when it is determined that the patient has a risk of falling based on at least one of the position information and the movement information, accepts declaration of caring for the patient in association with a position of the patient. 3. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein each of the portable terminals is of a wristband type that is attachable to an arm of the medical staff or of an eyeglass type that is wearable on a head of the medical staff. 4. The medical system according to claim 2, wherein each of the portable terminals is of a wristband type that is attachable to an arm of the medical staff or of an eyeglass type that is wearable on a head of the medical staff. 5. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein each of the portable terminals is capable of analyzing the vital sign and determining whether a condition of the patient is normal or abnormal based on a result of analysis of the vital sign. 6. The medical system according to claim 2, wherein each of the portable terminals is capable of analyzing the vital sign and determining whether a condition of the patient is normal or abnormal based on a result of analysis of the vital sign. 7. The medical system according to claim 3, wherein each of the portable terminals is capable of analyzing the vital sign and determining whether a condition of the patient is normal or abnormal based on a result of analysis of the vital sign. 8. The medical system according to claim 2, further comprising a receiver monitor that displays the position, the movement and a condition of the patient based on the position information, the movement information and the vital sign transmitted from the transmitter,
wherein each of the portable terminals or the receiver monitor includes a setting section that sets a threshold value used for determining whether or not the patient needs to be cared for based on the vital sign and the movement information. | 3,600 |
13,308 | 13,308 | 14,478,689 | 3,616 | The present invention relates to all terrain vehicles having at least a pair of laterally spaced apart seating surfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to trail compliant side-by-side all terrain vehicles. | 1-21. (canceled) 22. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame, comprising a front frame portion, a mid frame portion and a rear frame portion, the rear frame portion comprising a lower rear frame portion and an upper rear frame portion; a front suspension coupled to the front frame portion; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension coupled to the rear frame portion; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a cab intermediate the front and rear wheels; a seating area within the cab and supported by the mid frame portion, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; an engine supported by the rear frame portion, the engine positioned rearwardly of the seating area, and each seat bottom having a seating surface with a low point of the seating surface being below a top of the engine, the spaced-apart seating surfaces including a driver seating surface and a passenger seating surface; a fuel tank being positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms; a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission positioned rearwardly of the seating area; the front and rear wheels being drivingly coupled to the transmission; the lower rear frame portion supporting at least one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 23. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the continuously variable transmission comprises a clutch mechanism adapted to transmit power from the engine. 24. The vehicle of claim 23, wherein the clutch mechanism comprises a clutch cooling intake which communicates with the clutch mechanism to cool the clutch mechanism, and an inlet to the clutch cooling intake is at a position higher than the transmission. 25. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the transmission is positioned rearward of the engine. 26. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 27. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of between 50-54 inches. 28. The vehicle of claim 27, further comprising front tires mounted to the front wheels. 29. The vehicle of claim 28, wherein outer surfaces of the front tires define the outermost points. 30. The vehicle of claim 27, wherein the vehicle has a front panel having front fenders, and outer surfaces of the front fenders define the outermost points. 31. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 32. The vehicle of claim 31, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 33. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the front wheels are spaced-apart from the rear wheels by a wheelbase distance, the seat bottoms are supported above the frame by a seat height distance, and the all-terrain vehicle defines a ratio of the wheelbase distance to the seat height distance of at least 6.0 to 1. 34. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising a rear axle assembly that drivingly couples the transmission to the rear wheels, where a modular engine assembly is comprised of the engine, the transmission, and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly, the modular engine assembly being capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit. 35. The vehicle of claim 34, wherein the modular engine assembly is mounted to the frame by at least first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly. 36. The vehicle of claim 34, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly is a differential. 37. The vehicle of claim 35, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly has a rear drive axis, and the first mounting assembly is positioned rearward of the rear drive axis. 38. The vehicle of claim 35, wherein the first mounting assembly includes at least one bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly, and a mounting plate positioned between the bracket and frame. 39. The vehicle of claim 35, wherein the second mounting assembly is coupled to the engine. 40. The vehicle of claim 35, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame. 41. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising an engine cover supported by the upper rear frame portion and extending over one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area, the engine cover comprising a floor and upstanding sidewalls. 42. The vehicle of claim 41, wherein the engine is completely under the engine cover. 43. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension coupled to the frame; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension coupled to the frame; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a cab intermediate the front and rear wheels; a seating area within the cab and supported by the frame, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; a rear axle assembly that drivingly couples the transmission to the rear wheels; a modular engine assembly supported by the frame rearward of the seating area, the modular engine assembly being comprised of an engine, a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission, and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly, wherein the modular engine assembly being capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit; a front axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 44. The vehicle of claim 43, wherein the modular engine assembly is mounted to the frame by first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly. 45. The vehicle of claim 44, wherein at least one mounting assembly includes at least one bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly, and a mounting plate positioned between the bracket and frame. 46. The vehicle of claim 44, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly has a rear drive axis, and the first mounting assembly is coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly rearward of the rear drive axis. 47. The vehicle of claim 44, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame wherein one of the second mounting assembly and third mounting assembly is coupled to the engine. 48. The vehicle of claim 43, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 49. The vehicle of claim 48, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 50. The vehicle of claim 43, further comprising an engine cover supported by the upper rear frame portion and extending over one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area, the engine cover comprising a floor and upstanding sidewalls. 51. The vehicle of claim 50, wherein the engine is completely under the engine cover. | The present invention relates to all terrain vehicles having at least a pair of laterally spaced apart seating surfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to trail compliant side-by-side all terrain vehicles.1-21. (canceled) 22. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame, comprising a front frame portion, a mid frame portion and a rear frame portion, the rear frame portion comprising a lower rear frame portion and an upper rear frame portion; a front suspension coupled to the front frame portion; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension coupled to the rear frame portion; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a cab intermediate the front and rear wheels; a seating area within the cab and supported by the mid frame portion, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; an engine supported by the rear frame portion, the engine positioned rearwardly of the seating area, and each seat bottom having a seating surface with a low point of the seating surface being below a top of the engine, the spaced-apart seating surfaces including a driver seating surface and a passenger seating surface; a fuel tank being positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms; a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission positioned rearwardly of the seating area; the front and rear wheels being drivingly coupled to the transmission; the lower rear frame portion supporting at least one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 23. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the continuously variable transmission comprises a clutch mechanism adapted to transmit power from the engine. 24. The vehicle of claim 23, wherein the clutch mechanism comprises a clutch cooling intake which communicates with the clutch mechanism to cool the clutch mechanism, and an inlet to the clutch cooling intake is at a position higher than the transmission. 25. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the transmission is positioned rearward of the engine. 26. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 27. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of between 50-54 inches. 28. The vehicle of claim 27, further comprising front tires mounted to the front wheels. 29. The vehicle of claim 28, wherein outer surfaces of the front tires define the outermost points. 30. The vehicle of claim 27, wherein the vehicle has a front panel having front fenders, and outer surfaces of the front fenders define the outermost points. 31. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 32. The vehicle of claim 31, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 33. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the front wheels are spaced-apart from the rear wheels by a wheelbase distance, the seat bottoms are supported above the frame by a seat height distance, and the all-terrain vehicle defines a ratio of the wheelbase distance to the seat height distance of at least 6.0 to 1. 34. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising a rear axle assembly that drivingly couples the transmission to the rear wheels, where a modular engine assembly is comprised of the engine, the transmission, and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly, the modular engine assembly being capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit. 35. The vehicle of claim 34, wherein the modular engine assembly is mounted to the frame by at least first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly. 36. The vehicle of claim 34, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly is a differential. 37. The vehicle of claim 35, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly has a rear drive axis, and the first mounting assembly is positioned rearward of the rear drive axis. 38. The vehicle of claim 35, wherein the first mounting assembly includes at least one bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly, and a mounting plate positioned between the bracket and frame. 39. The vehicle of claim 35, wherein the second mounting assembly is coupled to the engine. 40. The vehicle of claim 35, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame. 41. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising an engine cover supported by the upper rear frame portion and extending over one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area, the engine cover comprising a floor and upstanding sidewalls. 42. The vehicle of claim 41, wherein the engine is completely under the engine cover. 43. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension coupled to the frame; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension coupled to the frame; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a cab intermediate the front and rear wheels; a seating area within the cab and supported by the frame, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; a rear axle assembly that drivingly couples the transmission to the rear wheels; a modular engine assembly supported by the frame rearward of the seating area, the modular engine assembly being comprised of an engine, a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission, and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly, wherein the modular engine assembly being capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit; a front axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 44. The vehicle of claim 43, wherein the modular engine assembly is mounted to the frame by first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly. 45. The vehicle of claim 44, wherein at least one mounting assembly includes at least one bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly, and a mounting plate positioned between the bracket and frame. 46. The vehicle of claim 44, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly has a rear drive axis, and the first mounting assembly is coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly rearward of the rear drive axis. 47. The vehicle of claim 44, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame wherein one of the second mounting assembly and third mounting assembly is coupled to the engine. 48. The vehicle of claim 43, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 49. The vehicle of claim 48, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 50. The vehicle of claim 43, further comprising an engine cover supported by the upper rear frame portion and extending over one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area, the engine cover comprising a floor and upstanding sidewalls. 51. The vehicle of claim 50, wherein the engine is completely under the engine cover. | 3,600 |
13,309 | 13,309 | 14,294,005 | 3,624 | In accordance with an example embodiment a method and apparatus for managing visitor interactions is provided. The method comprises detecting a website access event corresponding to a visitor. The method further comprises determining, upon detecting the website access event, if an interaction invitation is available from among a maximum number of interaction invitations computed to be offered to visitors for facilitating the visitor interactions with agents. The maximum number of interaction invitations computed based on a number of active agents. The interaction invitation is provided to the visitor if the interaction invitation is determined to be available. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
detecting, by a processor, a website access event corresponding to a visitor; determining by the processor, upon detecting the website access event, if an interaction invitation is available from among a maximum number of interaction invitations computed to be offered to visitors for facilitating visitor interactions with agents, the maximum number of interaction invitations computed based on a number of active agents; and providing, by the processor, the interaction invitation to the visitor if the interaction invitation is determined to be available. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the interaction invitation corresponds to an invitation for facilitating one of a chat interaction and a voice interaction with an active agent from among active agents associated with the number of active agents. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising:
computing, by the processor, a visitor score corresponding to the visitor upon detecting the website access event, the visitor score computed based on pre-defined parameters; and comparing, by the processor, the visitor score with a threshold score, wherein an availability of the interaction invitation is determined upon determining the visitor score to be at least equal to the threshold score. 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising:
determining a priority order for providing the interaction invitation to the visitor upon determining the availability of the interaction invitation, wherein the priority order is determined upon detecting a presence of one or more other visitors with associated visitor scores at least equal to the threshold score. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the priority order is determined based on a comparison of the visitor score with the visitor scores associated with the one or more other visitors. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the priority order is determined based on predicted nature of assistance for the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 7. The method of claim 4, wherein the priority order of providing the interaction invitation is configured to facilitate interaction between an active agent associated with highest rating from among the active agents to a visitor with highest visitor score from among one of the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 8. The method of claim 3, wherein the pre-defined parameters correspond to at least one of a predicted visitor's interest in availing at least one of a product and a service associated with a website corresponding to the website access event, a past purchasing history associated with the visitor, a web journey associated with the visitor, a visitor profile information and time spent on one or more web pages associated with the website by the visitor. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, by the processor, a maximum number of visitor interactions capable of being handled by one or more active agents associated with the number of active agents; and determining, by the processor, an acceptance rate indicative of a rate of acceptance of one or more previously offered interaction invitations, wherein the maximum number of interaction invitations is computed based on the maximum number of visitor interactions and the acceptance rate. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the one or more active agents are capable of interacting concurrently with two or more visitors. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the maximum number of visitor interactions is determined based on a pre-determined average acceptance time and a pre-determined average wait time associated with the visitor interactions. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
determining, by the processor, a counter value indicative of a number of interaction invitations currently offered to one or more visitors; and comparing, by the processor, the counter value with the maximum number of interaction invitations, wherein the interaction invitation is determined to be available if the counter value is less than the maximum number of interaction invitations. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the counter value is incremented, by the processor, by one upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor. 14. The method of claim 12, further comprising detecting, by the processor, a visitor action event upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor, wherein the visitor action event corresponds to one of an invitation acceptance event and an invitation decline event. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising detecting, by the processor, an invitation ignore event upon a failure to receive the visitor action event corresponding to one of the invitation acceptance event and the invitation decline event within a pre-defined time threshold. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the pre-defined time threshold is configured based on at least one of an interaction medium associated with the visitor, a day of a week associated with the interaction invitation and a time of the day associated with the interaction invitation. 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the counter value is updated, by the processor, upon detecting one of the invitation acceptance event, the invitation decline event and the invitation ignore event. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the counter value is updated based on at least one of a first number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to decline the interaction invitations and a second number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to ignore the interaction invitations. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second number of visitors to ignore the interaction invitations is determined based on a pre-determined decay rate associated with each visitor from among the one or more visitors. 20. An apparatus comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory having stored therein machine executable instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to:
detect a website access event corresponding to a visitor;
determine, upon detecting the website access event, if an interaction invitation is available from among a maximum number of interaction invitations computed to be offered to visitors for facilitating visitor interactions with agents, the maximum number of interaction invitations computed based on a number of active agents; and
provide the interaction invitation to the visitor if the interaction invitation is determined to be available. 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the interaction invitation corresponds to an invitation for facilitating one of a chat interaction and a voice interaction with an active agent from among active agents associated with the number of active agents. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
compute a visitor score corresponding to the visitor upon detecting the website access event, the visitor score computed based on pre-defined parameters; and compare the visitor score with a threshold score, wherein an availability of the interaction invitation is determined upon determining the visitor score to be at least equal to the threshold score. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
determine a priority order for providing the interaction invitation to the visitor upon determining the availability of the interaction invitation, wherein the priority order is determined upon detecting a presence of one or more other visitors with associated visitor scores at least equal to the threshold score. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the priority order is determined based on a comparison of the visitor score with the visitor scores associated with the one or more other visitors. 25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the priority order is determined based on predicted nature of assistance for the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the priority order of providing the interaction invitation is configured to facilitate interaction between an active agent associated with highest rating from among the active agents to a visitor with highest visitor score from among one of the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 27. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the pre-defined parameters correspond to at least one of a predicted visitor's interest in availing at least one of a product and a service associated with a website corresponding to the website access event, a past purchasing history associated with the visitor, a web journey associated with the visitor, a visitor profile information and time spent on one or more web pages associated with the website by the visitor. 28. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
determine a maximum number of visitor interactions capable of being handled by one or more active agents associated with the number of active agents; and determine an acceptance rate indicative of a rate of acceptance of one or more previously offered interaction invitations, wherein the maximum number of interaction invitations is computed based on the maximum number of visitor interactions and the acceptance rate. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
determine a counter value indicative of a number of interaction invitations currently offered to one or more visitors; and compare the counter value with the maximum number of interaction invitations, wherein the interaction invitation is determined to be available if the counter value is less than the maximum number of interaction invitations. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the apparatus is further caused to increment the counter value by one upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor. 31. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the apparatus is further caused to detect a visitor action event upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor, wherein the visitor action event corresponds to one of an invitation acceptance event and an invitation decline event. 32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the apparatus is further caused to detect an invitation ignore event upon a failure to receive the visitor action event corresponding to one of the invitation acceptance event and the invitation decline event within a pre-defined time threshold. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the apparatus is further caused to update the counter value upon detecting one of the invitation acceptance event, the invitation decline event and the invitation ignore event, and, wherein the counter value is updated based on at least one of a first number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to decline the interaction invitations and a second number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to ignore the interaction invitations. | In accordance with an example embodiment a method and apparatus for managing visitor interactions is provided. The method comprises detecting a website access event corresponding to a visitor. The method further comprises determining, upon detecting the website access event, if an interaction invitation is available from among a maximum number of interaction invitations computed to be offered to visitors for facilitating the visitor interactions with agents. The maximum number of interaction invitations computed based on a number of active agents. The interaction invitation is provided to the visitor if the interaction invitation is determined to be available.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
detecting, by a processor, a website access event corresponding to a visitor; determining by the processor, upon detecting the website access event, if an interaction invitation is available from among a maximum number of interaction invitations computed to be offered to visitors for facilitating visitor interactions with agents, the maximum number of interaction invitations computed based on a number of active agents; and providing, by the processor, the interaction invitation to the visitor if the interaction invitation is determined to be available. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the interaction invitation corresponds to an invitation for facilitating one of a chat interaction and a voice interaction with an active agent from among active agents associated with the number of active agents. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising:
computing, by the processor, a visitor score corresponding to the visitor upon detecting the website access event, the visitor score computed based on pre-defined parameters; and comparing, by the processor, the visitor score with a threshold score, wherein an availability of the interaction invitation is determined upon determining the visitor score to be at least equal to the threshold score. 4. The method of claim 3, further comprising:
determining a priority order for providing the interaction invitation to the visitor upon determining the availability of the interaction invitation, wherein the priority order is determined upon detecting a presence of one or more other visitors with associated visitor scores at least equal to the threshold score. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the priority order is determined based on a comparison of the visitor score with the visitor scores associated with the one or more other visitors. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the priority order is determined based on predicted nature of assistance for the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 7. The method of claim 4, wherein the priority order of providing the interaction invitation is configured to facilitate interaction between an active agent associated with highest rating from among the active agents to a visitor with highest visitor score from among one of the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 8. The method of claim 3, wherein the pre-defined parameters correspond to at least one of a predicted visitor's interest in availing at least one of a product and a service associated with a website corresponding to the website access event, a past purchasing history associated with the visitor, a web journey associated with the visitor, a visitor profile information and time spent on one or more web pages associated with the website by the visitor. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, by the processor, a maximum number of visitor interactions capable of being handled by one or more active agents associated with the number of active agents; and determining, by the processor, an acceptance rate indicative of a rate of acceptance of one or more previously offered interaction invitations, wherein the maximum number of interaction invitations is computed based on the maximum number of visitor interactions and the acceptance rate. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the one or more active agents are capable of interacting concurrently with two or more visitors. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the maximum number of visitor interactions is determined based on a pre-determined average acceptance time and a pre-determined average wait time associated with the visitor interactions. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
determining, by the processor, a counter value indicative of a number of interaction invitations currently offered to one or more visitors; and comparing, by the processor, the counter value with the maximum number of interaction invitations, wherein the interaction invitation is determined to be available if the counter value is less than the maximum number of interaction invitations. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the counter value is incremented, by the processor, by one upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor. 14. The method of claim 12, further comprising detecting, by the processor, a visitor action event upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor, wherein the visitor action event corresponds to one of an invitation acceptance event and an invitation decline event. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising detecting, by the processor, an invitation ignore event upon a failure to receive the visitor action event corresponding to one of the invitation acceptance event and the invitation decline event within a pre-defined time threshold. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the pre-defined time threshold is configured based on at least one of an interaction medium associated with the visitor, a day of a week associated with the interaction invitation and a time of the day associated with the interaction invitation. 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the counter value is updated, by the processor, upon detecting one of the invitation acceptance event, the invitation decline event and the invitation ignore event. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the counter value is updated based on at least one of a first number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to decline the interaction invitations and a second number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to ignore the interaction invitations. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second number of visitors to ignore the interaction invitations is determined based on a pre-determined decay rate associated with each visitor from among the one or more visitors. 20. An apparatus comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory having stored therein machine executable instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to:
detect a website access event corresponding to a visitor;
determine, upon detecting the website access event, if an interaction invitation is available from among a maximum number of interaction invitations computed to be offered to visitors for facilitating visitor interactions with agents, the maximum number of interaction invitations computed based on a number of active agents; and
provide the interaction invitation to the visitor if the interaction invitation is determined to be available. 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the interaction invitation corresponds to an invitation for facilitating one of a chat interaction and a voice interaction with an active agent from among active agents associated with the number of active agents. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
compute a visitor score corresponding to the visitor upon detecting the website access event, the visitor score computed based on pre-defined parameters; and compare the visitor score with a threshold score, wherein an availability of the interaction invitation is determined upon determining the visitor score to be at least equal to the threshold score. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
determine a priority order for providing the interaction invitation to the visitor upon determining the availability of the interaction invitation, wherein the priority order is determined upon detecting a presence of one or more other visitors with associated visitor scores at least equal to the threshold score. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the priority order is determined based on a comparison of the visitor score with the visitor scores associated with the one or more other visitors. 25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the priority order is determined based on predicted nature of assistance for the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the priority order of providing the interaction invitation is configured to facilitate interaction between an active agent associated with highest rating from among the active agents to a visitor with highest visitor score from among one of the visitor and the one or more other visitors. 27. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the pre-defined parameters correspond to at least one of a predicted visitor's interest in availing at least one of a product and a service associated with a website corresponding to the website access event, a past purchasing history associated with the visitor, a web journey associated with the visitor, a visitor profile information and time spent on one or more web pages associated with the website by the visitor. 28. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
determine a maximum number of visitor interactions capable of being handled by one or more active agents associated with the number of active agents; and determine an acceptance rate indicative of a rate of acceptance of one or more previously offered interaction invitations, wherein the maximum number of interaction invitations is computed based on the maximum number of visitor interactions and the acceptance rate. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
determine a counter value indicative of a number of interaction invitations currently offered to one or more visitors; and compare the counter value with the maximum number of interaction invitations, wherein the interaction invitation is determined to be available if the counter value is less than the maximum number of interaction invitations. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the apparatus is further caused to increment the counter value by one upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor. 31. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the apparatus is further caused to detect a visitor action event upon providing the interaction invitation to the visitor, wherein the visitor action event corresponds to one of an invitation acceptance event and an invitation decline event. 32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the apparatus is further caused to detect an invitation ignore event upon a failure to receive the visitor action event corresponding to one of the invitation acceptance event and the invitation decline event within a pre-defined time threshold. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the apparatus is further caused to update the counter value upon detecting one of the invitation acceptance event, the invitation decline event and the invitation ignore event, and, wherein the counter value is updated based on at least one of a first number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to decline the interaction invitations and a second number of visitors from among the one or more visitors to ignore the interaction invitations. | 3,600 |
13,310 | 13,310 | 13,902,256 | 3,682 | A system and method are disclosed for distribution of advertisements and electronic offers between communication devices. The system and method provides for accounting and distribution of incentives related to distribution of the advertisements and offers. A bi-directional selection between subscribers and advertisers using the system is created whereby both advertisers and subscribers agree to participate in the distribution of advertisements and offers. The system further provides for a means of redeeming offers utilizing points of sale and analytics associated to the redemption of electronic offers. | 1. A method of providing access to an electronic offer from an advertiser to a source communication device possessed by a subscriber and distributing the access to the electronic offer from the source communication device to a destination communication device possessed by a recipient, the method comprising the steps of:
establishing a bi-lateral agreement between the subscriber and the advertiser to distribute the electronic offer; creating an endorsement token related to the electronic offer; providing information, related to the electronic offer, to the source communication device that can be referenced in a communication session between the source communication device and the destination communication device; transmitting the endorsement token contemporaneously with the communication session; receiving a signal related to the endorsement token; and, transmitting the electronic offer in response to the signal. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of establishing a bilateral agreement further comprises the steps of:
providing an interest criteria required by the advertiser; providing an interest profile related to the subscriber; comparing the interest criteria to the interest profile to derive a match; conditioning an endorsement opportunity on the match; transmitting the endorsement opportunity to the subscriber; and, receiving an acceptance from the subscriber of the endorsement opportunity. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of validating the electronic offer. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the step of validating further comprises the steps of:
determining a geographic position of the destination communication device; and,
comparing the geographic position to a predetermined location to arrive at a location match condition. 5. The method of claim 3 wherein the step of validating further comprises the steps of:
determining a time of verification; and,
comparing the time of verification to a predetermined time window to arrive at a temporal match condition. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of:
recognizing an incentive for the subscriber after transmission of the endorsement token. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of:
providing a set of attributes related to the electronic offer; and
relating a redemption event to an attribute of the set of attributes. 8. The method of claim 7 further comprising the step of:
providing, in the set of attributes, one or more of the group of a definition, a date, a time, a maximum redemption count, a geographic location for redemption, a bar code, a weather specification, an economic event, a news event and a blog event. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein an intermediary interacts with the advertiser, the source communication device and the destination communication device, and wherein the electronic offer includes a set of attributes, further comprising the steps of:
storing a first set of historical data types, related to the set of attributes, in a memory residing on the intermediary; and, tabulating one or more data types of the first set of data types upon the redemption event. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein an intermediary interacts with the advertiser, the source communication device and the destination communication device, and further comprising the steps of:
storing a first set of historical data, related to transmitting the message, in a first memory residing on the source communication device; storing a second set of historical data, related to a viewing of the electronic offer in a second memory residing on the intermediary; periodically transmitting the first set of historical data from the source communication device to the intermediary; and, comparing the first set of historical data and the second set of historical data against the incentive offer to determine an incentive to be paid. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of establishing a bilateral agreement further comprises the steps of:
providing a demographic criteria required by the advertiser; providing a demographic profile related to the subscriber; comparing the demographic criteria to the demographic profile to derive a match; conditioning an endorsement opportunity on the match; transmitting the endorsement opportunity to the subscriber; and, receiving an acceptance from the subscriber of the endorsement opportunity. 12. A system for transmitting an advertisement comprising:
a source communication device, having a first processor and a first memory, associated with a subscriber; a destination communication device, having a second processor and a second memory, associated with a recipient, in communication with the source communication device; an intermediary, having a third processor and a third memory, in communication with the source communication device and the destination communication device; the intermediary programmed to carry out the steps of: receiving an advertising campaign from the advertiser comprising, the first advertisement, a first offer and a first demographic profile for subscriber qualification; receiving a second demographic profile from the subscriber; comparing the first demographic profile to the second demographic profile to arrive at a first match condition; transmitting a first endorsement opportunity to the subscriber based on the first match condition; receiving an agreement to accept the first endorsement opportunity from the subscriber; sending an endorsement tag, related to the first advertisement, to the source communication device; receiving a first signal from the destination communication device related to the endorsement tag; transmitting the advertisement to the destination communication device upon receipt of the first signal; receiving a second signal from the destination communication device related to the first offer; transmitting the first offer to the destination communication device upon receipt of the second signal; and, crediting the subscriber, according to an incentive program, upon transmission of the first advertisement. 13. The system of claim 12 wherein intermediary is further programmed to carry out the step of:
transmitting a validation signal to the destination communication device. 14. The system of claim 13 wherein the validation signal includes a static graphic display. 15. The system of claim 13 wherein the validation signal includes a bar code. 16. The system of claim 13 wherein the validation signal includes a visual validation code. 17. The system of claim 12 wherein the intermediary is further programmed to carry out the steps of:
receiving a first interest profile from the advertiser;
receiving a second interest profile from the subscriber;
comparing the first interest profile to the second interest profile to arrive at a second match condition; and
transmitting a second endorsement opportunity to the subscriber based on the second match condition. 18. A method of providing access to an electronic offer from an advertiser to a source communication device possessed by a subscriber and distributing the access to the electronic offer from the source communication device to a destination communication device possessed by a recipient, the method comprising the steps of:
establishing a bi-lateral agreement between the subscriber and the advertiser to distribute the electronic offer; providing an incentive program to the subscriber; sending an endorsement token related to the electronic offer to the source communication device; enabling a communication session, between the source communication device and the destination communication device, related to the electronic offer; transmitting the endorsement token contemporaneously with the communication session; receiving a signal related to the endorsement token; transmitting the electronic offer to the destination communication device upon receipt of the signal; verifying the validity of the electronic offer; and, engaging in a redemption event of the electronic offer. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of establishing a bilateral agreement further comprises the steps of:
providing an interest criteria required by the advertiser; providing an interest profile related to the subscriber; comparing the interest criteria to the interest profile to derive a match condition; conditioning an endorsement opportunity on the match condition; transmitting the endorsement opportunity to the subscriber; and, receiving an acceptance from the subscriber of the endorsement opportunity. 20. The method of claim 18 wherein the step of verifying further comprises the steps of:
determining a geographic position of the destination communication device; and,
comparing the geographic position to a predetermined location to arrive at a location match condition. | A system and method are disclosed for distribution of advertisements and electronic offers between communication devices. The system and method provides for accounting and distribution of incentives related to distribution of the advertisements and offers. A bi-directional selection between subscribers and advertisers using the system is created whereby both advertisers and subscribers agree to participate in the distribution of advertisements and offers. The system further provides for a means of redeeming offers utilizing points of sale and analytics associated to the redemption of electronic offers.1. A method of providing access to an electronic offer from an advertiser to a source communication device possessed by a subscriber and distributing the access to the electronic offer from the source communication device to a destination communication device possessed by a recipient, the method comprising the steps of:
establishing a bi-lateral agreement between the subscriber and the advertiser to distribute the electronic offer; creating an endorsement token related to the electronic offer; providing information, related to the electronic offer, to the source communication device that can be referenced in a communication session between the source communication device and the destination communication device; transmitting the endorsement token contemporaneously with the communication session; receiving a signal related to the endorsement token; and, transmitting the electronic offer in response to the signal. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of establishing a bilateral agreement further comprises the steps of:
providing an interest criteria required by the advertiser; providing an interest profile related to the subscriber; comparing the interest criteria to the interest profile to derive a match; conditioning an endorsement opportunity on the match; transmitting the endorsement opportunity to the subscriber; and, receiving an acceptance from the subscriber of the endorsement opportunity. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of validating the electronic offer. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the step of validating further comprises the steps of:
determining a geographic position of the destination communication device; and,
comparing the geographic position to a predetermined location to arrive at a location match condition. 5. The method of claim 3 wherein the step of validating further comprises the steps of:
determining a time of verification; and,
comparing the time of verification to a predetermined time window to arrive at a temporal match condition. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of:
recognizing an incentive for the subscriber after transmission of the endorsement token. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of:
providing a set of attributes related to the electronic offer; and
relating a redemption event to an attribute of the set of attributes. 8. The method of claim 7 further comprising the step of:
providing, in the set of attributes, one or more of the group of a definition, a date, a time, a maximum redemption count, a geographic location for redemption, a bar code, a weather specification, an economic event, a news event and a blog event. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein an intermediary interacts with the advertiser, the source communication device and the destination communication device, and wherein the electronic offer includes a set of attributes, further comprising the steps of:
storing a first set of historical data types, related to the set of attributes, in a memory residing on the intermediary; and, tabulating one or more data types of the first set of data types upon the redemption event. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein an intermediary interacts with the advertiser, the source communication device and the destination communication device, and further comprising the steps of:
storing a first set of historical data, related to transmitting the message, in a first memory residing on the source communication device; storing a second set of historical data, related to a viewing of the electronic offer in a second memory residing on the intermediary; periodically transmitting the first set of historical data from the source communication device to the intermediary; and, comparing the first set of historical data and the second set of historical data against the incentive offer to determine an incentive to be paid. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of establishing a bilateral agreement further comprises the steps of:
providing a demographic criteria required by the advertiser; providing a demographic profile related to the subscriber; comparing the demographic criteria to the demographic profile to derive a match; conditioning an endorsement opportunity on the match; transmitting the endorsement opportunity to the subscriber; and, receiving an acceptance from the subscriber of the endorsement opportunity. 12. A system for transmitting an advertisement comprising:
a source communication device, having a first processor and a first memory, associated with a subscriber; a destination communication device, having a second processor and a second memory, associated with a recipient, in communication with the source communication device; an intermediary, having a third processor and a third memory, in communication with the source communication device and the destination communication device; the intermediary programmed to carry out the steps of: receiving an advertising campaign from the advertiser comprising, the first advertisement, a first offer and a first demographic profile for subscriber qualification; receiving a second demographic profile from the subscriber; comparing the first demographic profile to the second demographic profile to arrive at a first match condition; transmitting a first endorsement opportunity to the subscriber based on the first match condition; receiving an agreement to accept the first endorsement opportunity from the subscriber; sending an endorsement tag, related to the first advertisement, to the source communication device; receiving a first signal from the destination communication device related to the endorsement tag; transmitting the advertisement to the destination communication device upon receipt of the first signal; receiving a second signal from the destination communication device related to the first offer; transmitting the first offer to the destination communication device upon receipt of the second signal; and, crediting the subscriber, according to an incentive program, upon transmission of the first advertisement. 13. The system of claim 12 wherein intermediary is further programmed to carry out the step of:
transmitting a validation signal to the destination communication device. 14. The system of claim 13 wherein the validation signal includes a static graphic display. 15. The system of claim 13 wherein the validation signal includes a bar code. 16. The system of claim 13 wherein the validation signal includes a visual validation code. 17. The system of claim 12 wherein the intermediary is further programmed to carry out the steps of:
receiving a first interest profile from the advertiser;
receiving a second interest profile from the subscriber;
comparing the first interest profile to the second interest profile to arrive at a second match condition; and
transmitting a second endorsement opportunity to the subscriber based on the second match condition. 18. A method of providing access to an electronic offer from an advertiser to a source communication device possessed by a subscriber and distributing the access to the electronic offer from the source communication device to a destination communication device possessed by a recipient, the method comprising the steps of:
establishing a bi-lateral agreement between the subscriber and the advertiser to distribute the electronic offer; providing an incentive program to the subscriber; sending an endorsement token related to the electronic offer to the source communication device; enabling a communication session, between the source communication device and the destination communication device, related to the electronic offer; transmitting the endorsement token contemporaneously with the communication session; receiving a signal related to the endorsement token; transmitting the electronic offer to the destination communication device upon receipt of the signal; verifying the validity of the electronic offer; and, engaging in a redemption event of the electronic offer. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of establishing a bilateral agreement further comprises the steps of:
providing an interest criteria required by the advertiser; providing an interest profile related to the subscriber; comparing the interest criteria to the interest profile to derive a match condition; conditioning an endorsement opportunity on the match condition; transmitting the endorsement opportunity to the subscriber; and, receiving an acceptance from the subscriber of the endorsement opportunity. 20. The method of claim 18 wherein the step of verifying further comprises the steps of:
determining a geographic position of the destination communication device; and,
comparing the geographic position to a predetermined location to arrive at a location match condition. | 3,600 |
13,311 | 13,311 | 15,342,891 | 3,668 | Parameters that characterize a current driving situation of the motor vehicle are acquired. On the basis of the acquired parameters a current level of monotony is determined as a characterization of a monotony of the current driving situation. Whether the calculated current level of monotony exceeds a predetermined threshold is checked, and an exercise for the driver to increase concentration on driving the motor vehicle is performed when the threshold is exceeded. | 1. A method for preventing driver concentration errors comprising:
acquiring parameters that characterize a current driving situation of a vehicle; calculating, based on the acquired parameters, a current level of monotony as a characterization of a monotony of the current driving situation; checking whether the calculated current level of monotony exceeds a predetermined threshold; and performing an exercise for the driver to increase concentration on driving the motor vehicle when the threshold is exceeded. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters include at least one live environment parameter for characterizing a driving environment. 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters include at least one live load parameter for characterizing a driver load. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters include at least one live status parameter for characterizing a vehicle status. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters includes at least one live parameter for characterizing a travel route. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein calculating the current level of monotony accounts for previous levels of monotony over one or more of a specified time period and a specified distance. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein performing an exercise includes driving according to a specified driving behavior. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein performing an exercise includes one or more of activating and deactivating an assistance system of the vehicle. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein performing an exercise includes offering one or more exercises at certain times given by a preset schedule. 10. A vehicle system comprising:
an acquisition device configured to acquire parameters that characterize a current driving situation; a calculation module configured to, based on the acquired parameters, determine a current level of driving situation monotony; a decision module configured to check if the current level of driving situation monotony exceeds a predetermined threshold; and an exercise module configured to present an exercise to increase driving concentration if the threshold is exceeded. 11. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the exercise includes driving according to a specified driving behavior. 12. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the exercise includes one or more exercises at predefined times according to a preset schedule. 13. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the exercise includes one or more of activating and deactivating an assistance system of the vehicle. 14. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein a description of the exercise is output via a human/machine interface of the vehicle. 15. A method for improving focus while driving comprising:
in response to acquired driving parameters, via an acquisition device, indicative of a monotony level of a driving situation being above a predetermined threshold instructing a driver, via an exercise module, to perform an exercise to increase a concentration level, wherein the exercise is a set of exercises performed at predefined times specified by a preset schedule. 16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live environment parameter indicative of a driving environment. 17. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live load parameter indicative of a driver load. 18. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live status parameter indicative of a vehicle status. 19. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live parameter indicative of a travel route. 20. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the monotony level includes previous monotony levels over a specified time period and a specified distance. | Parameters that characterize a current driving situation of the motor vehicle are acquired. On the basis of the acquired parameters a current level of monotony is determined as a characterization of a monotony of the current driving situation. Whether the calculated current level of monotony exceeds a predetermined threshold is checked, and an exercise for the driver to increase concentration on driving the motor vehicle is performed when the threshold is exceeded.1. A method for preventing driver concentration errors comprising:
acquiring parameters that characterize a current driving situation of a vehicle; calculating, based on the acquired parameters, a current level of monotony as a characterization of a monotony of the current driving situation; checking whether the calculated current level of monotony exceeds a predetermined threshold; and performing an exercise for the driver to increase concentration on driving the motor vehicle when the threshold is exceeded. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters include at least one live environment parameter for characterizing a driving environment. 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters include at least one live load parameter for characterizing a driver load. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters include at least one live status parameter for characterizing a vehicle status. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the acquired parameters includes at least one live parameter for characterizing a travel route. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein calculating the current level of monotony accounts for previous levels of monotony over one or more of a specified time period and a specified distance. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein performing an exercise includes driving according to a specified driving behavior. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein performing an exercise includes one or more of activating and deactivating an assistance system of the vehicle. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein performing an exercise includes offering one or more exercises at certain times given by a preset schedule. 10. A vehicle system comprising:
an acquisition device configured to acquire parameters that characterize a current driving situation; a calculation module configured to, based on the acquired parameters, determine a current level of driving situation monotony; a decision module configured to check if the current level of driving situation monotony exceeds a predetermined threshold; and an exercise module configured to present an exercise to increase driving concentration if the threshold is exceeded. 11. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the exercise includes driving according to a specified driving behavior. 12. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the exercise includes one or more exercises at predefined times according to a preset schedule. 13. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the exercise includes one or more of activating and deactivating an assistance system of the vehicle. 14. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein a description of the exercise is output via a human/machine interface of the vehicle. 15. A method for improving focus while driving comprising:
in response to acquired driving parameters, via an acquisition device, indicative of a monotony level of a driving situation being above a predetermined threshold instructing a driver, via an exercise module, to perform an exercise to increase a concentration level, wherein the exercise is a set of exercises performed at predefined times specified by a preset schedule. 16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live environment parameter indicative of a driving environment. 17. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live load parameter indicative of a driver load. 18. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live status parameter indicative of a vehicle status. 19. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the acquired driving parameters include at least one live parameter indicative of a travel route. 20. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the monotony level includes previous monotony levels over a specified time period and a specified distance. | 3,600 |
13,312 | 13,312 | 15,615,136 | 3,674 | A plugging device, well system and method. In one example, a wrap, band or other type of binding is utilized to secure together multiple fibers, tubes, filaments, films, fabrics or lines of the plugging device. In another example, fibers, tubes, filaments, films, fabrics or lines are fused, adhered or bonded to an outer surface of a body of the plugging device. In other examples, a material of the plugging device may become more rigid or swell in a well. A plugging device may comprise a body loosely enclosed in a bag, wrapper or other enclosure. | 1. A plugging device for use in a subterranean well, the plugging device comprising:
a body configured to engage and substantially block flow through a passageway in the well; and an enclosure containing the body, relative motion being permitted between the body and the enclosure. 2. (canceled) 3. The plugging device of claim 1, in which shear stress is substantially unsupported in sliding contact between the body and the enclosure. 4. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure is not attached to the body. 5. (canceled) 6. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the relative motion between the body and the enclosure is limited. 7-8. (canceled) 9. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the body comprises a material that degrades in the well. 10. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material that degrades in the well. 11. (canceled) 12. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material in sheet form rolled about the body. 13. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material in tubular form, the body being received in the tubular form. 14. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material with the body enclosed therein by stitching. 15. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the body is more rigid and more dense relative to the enclosure. 16. A method of plugging a passageway, the method comprising:
releasing a plugging device into a fluid flow, thereby causing the plugging device to be carried by the fluid flow to the passageway, the plugging device comprising a body enclosed by an enclosure, and relative motion being permitted between the body and the enclosure; and the plugging device engaging the passageway and thereby blocking the passageway. 17-19. (canceled) 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising forming the body relatively more rigid and more dense compared to the enclosure. 21. The method of claim 16, in which the relative motion includes at least one of the group consisting of rotation and translation. 22. The method of claim 16, in which shear stress is substantially unsupported in sliding contact between the body and the enclosure. 23. The method of claim 16, in which the enclosure is not attached to the body. 24. (canceled) 25. The method of claim 16, in which the relative motion between the body and the enclosure is limited. 26-27. (canceled) 28. The method of claim 16, further comprising a material of the body degrading in the well. 29. The method of claim 16, further comprising a material of the enclosure degrading in the well. 30. The method of claim 16, further comprising forming the enclosure by wrapping a material in sheet form about the body. 31. (canceled) 32. The method of claim 16, further comprising forming the enclosure of a material in tubular form, the body being received in the tubular form. 33. (canceled) 34. A well system, comprising:
a plugging device conveyed through a tubular string by fluid flow in the well, the plugging device comprising a body contained within an enclosure, the body being configured to engage and resist extrusion through a passageway in the well, the enclosure being configured to block the fluid flow between the plugging device and the passageway, and sliding contact being permitted between the body and the enclosure. 35. The well system of claim 34, wherein shear stress is substantially unsupported by the sliding contact between the body and the enclosure. 36-37. (canceled) 38. The well system of claim 34, wherein relative motion is permitted between the body and the enclosure. 39-42. (canceled) 43. The well system of claim 34, in which the body comprises a material that degrades in the well. 44. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material that degrades in the well. 45. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material in sheet form wrapped about the body. 46. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material in sheet form rolled about the body. 47. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material in tubular form, the body being received in the tubular form. 48. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material with the body enclosed therein by stitching. 49. The well system of claim 34, in which the body is more rigid and more dense relative to the enclosure. 50-88. (canceled) | A plugging device, well system and method. In one example, a wrap, band or other type of binding is utilized to secure together multiple fibers, tubes, filaments, films, fabrics or lines of the plugging device. In another example, fibers, tubes, filaments, films, fabrics or lines are fused, adhered or bonded to an outer surface of a body of the plugging device. In other examples, a material of the plugging device may become more rigid or swell in a well. A plugging device may comprise a body loosely enclosed in a bag, wrapper or other enclosure.1. A plugging device for use in a subterranean well, the plugging device comprising:
a body configured to engage and substantially block flow through a passageway in the well; and an enclosure containing the body, relative motion being permitted between the body and the enclosure. 2. (canceled) 3. The plugging device of claim 1, in which shear stress is substantially unsupported in sliding contact between the body and the enclosure. 4. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure is not attached to the body. 5. (canceled) 6. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the relative motion between the body and the enclosure is limited. 7-8. (canceled) 9. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the body comprises a material that degrades in the well. 10. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material that degrades in the well. 11. (canceled) 12. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material in sheet form rolled about the body. 13. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material in tubular form, the body being received in the tubular form. 14. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the enclosure comprises a material with the body enclosed therein by stitching. 15. The plugging device of claim 1, in which the body is more rigid and more dense relative to the enclosure. 16. A method of plugging a passageway, the method comprising:
releasing a plugging device into a fluid flow, thereby causing the plugging device to be carried by the fluid flow to the passageway, the plugging device comprising a body enclosed by an enclosure, and relative motion being permitted between the body and the enclosure; and the plugging device engaging the passageway and thereby blocking the passageway. 17-19. (canceled) 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising forming the body relatively more rigid and more dense compared to the enclosure. 21. The method of claim 16, in which the relative motion includes at least one of the group consisting of rotation and translation. 22. The method of claim 16, in which shear stress is substantially unsupported in sliding contact between the body and the enclosure. 23. The method of claim 16, in which the enclosure is not attached to the body. 24. (canceled) 25. The method of claim 16, in which the relative motion between the body and the enclosure is limited. 26-27. (canceled) 28. The method of claim 16, further comprising a material of the body degrading in the well. 29. The method of claim 16, further comprising a material of the enclosure degrading in the well. 30. The method of claim 16, further comprising forming the enclosure by wrapping a material in sheet form about the body. 31. (canceled) 32. The method of claim 16, further comprising forming the enclosure of a material in tubular form, the body being received in the tubular form. 33. (canceled) 34. A well system, comprising:
a plugging device conveyed through a tubular string by fluid flow in the well, the plugging device comprising a body contained within an enclosure, the body being configured to engage and resist extrusion through a passageway in the well, the enclosure being configured to block the fluid flow between the plugging device and the passageway, and sliding contact being permitted between the body and the enclosure. 35. The well system of claim 34, wherein shear stress is substantially unsupported by the sliding contact between the body and the enclosure. 36-37. (canceled) 38. The well system of claim 34, wherein relative motion is permitted between the body and the enclosure. 39-42. (canceled) 43. The well system of claim 34, in which the body comprises a material that degrades in the well. 44. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material that degrades in the well. 45. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material in sheet form wrapped about the body. 46. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material in sheet form rolled about the body. 47. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material in tubular form, the body being received in the tubular form. 48. The well system of claim 34, in which the enclosure comprises a material with the body enclosed therein by stitching. 49. The well system of claim 34, in which the body is more rigid and more dense relative to the enclosure. 50-88. (canceled) | 3,600 |
13,313 | 13,313 | 14,790,056 | 3,624 | Methods, including service methods, articles of manufacture, systems, articles and programmable devices provide a conservation modeling engine framework. Programmable conservation modeling engines in communication with different customizable resource conservation modules, each resource conservation module customized to a distinct resource, select one of the modules customized to a resource identified for conservation, and user-defined criteria as a function of the identified resource and the selected module. Input data is selected and collected as a function of the resource identified and the selected module and used to weight the input data. Different optimized conservation plans are created as a function of the weighted input data and the selected module, each of the optimized conservation plans displayed having a different implementation cost, a different time for implementation and a different total amount of the identified resource saved. | 1. A computer implemented method for conservation modeling, the method comprising executing on a processor the steps of:
creating a plurality of different conservation plans for a region for a future time period as a function of a determined rate of change of availability of a resource identified for conservation, wherein the plurality of conservation plans includes a first plan that has a least implementation cost relative to implementation costs of a second plan and a third plan of the plurality of conservation plans, the second plan that has a fastest time for implementation relative to times for implementation of the first plan and the third plan, and the third plan that conserves a most amount of the resource identified for conservation relative to amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are conserved by the first plan and the second plan; optimizing the first, second and third plans via at least one of a greedy algorithm, a penalty method algorithm and a cooperative optimization; predicting via a Monte Carlo methodology future values of an input variable at an execution time of the first, second and third plans; and modifying the optimized first, second and third plans to meet a threshold as a function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising
selecting a customizable resource conservation module from a provided plurality of different customizable resource conservation modules as a function of the selected module being customized to the resource identified for conservation, wherein the selected module includes requirements unique to the resource identified for conservation, and wherein each of the different customizable resource conservation modules are customized to different ones of a plurality of distinct resources that includes the resource identified for conservation; and using the selected customizable resource conservation module to determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising:
determining the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation from: a real-time sensor input comprising a current level of usage of the resource identified for conservation; a dynamic data feed comprising at least one of weather conditions, and demands for the resource identified for conservation that are currently predicted to occur over a future time period; static data comprising a number of facility items using the resource identified for conservation; and historic data comprising at least one of an average usage rate of the resource identified for conservation by the facility items, and a historic weather pattern for a region comprising the facility items; and creating the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period by applying the selected customizable resource conservation module to the inputs of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource, the real-time sensor input, the dynamic data feed, the static data and the historic data. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
displaying the optimized first, second and third plans in a single table diagram that: distinguishes different values of implementation costs, times for implementation and total amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are each displayed for each of the displayed plans; identifies the first plan as having the least implementation cost, the second plan as having the fastest time for implementation, and the third plan as conserving the most amount of the resource identified for conservation; and displays sets of ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions to be taken to implement each of the optimized first, second and third plans and in association with respective ones of the optimized first, second and third plans, wherein each of the sets of ordered pluralities are associated with different ones of the optimized first, second and third plans and comprise different orders of the location-specific actions. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
displaying each of the sets of the ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions in association with time periods for taking the ordered actions, wherein the time periods are subsets of a total time of the time for implementation of an associated plan of the optimized first, second and third plans. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
predicting each of a plurality of values of an input variable at a time of execution of each of the optimized first, second and third plans; predicting a future severity of a shortage of the resource identified for conservation; and wherein the step of creating the optimized first, second and third plans is further a function of the plurality of predicted values of the input variable and the predicted future shortage severity. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
calculating and displaying an estimated return-on-investment time period for each of the optimized first, second and third plans as a function of their respective implementation costs; and weighting the first plan, the second plan and the third plan to recommend a plan and a time duration to achieve a return on investment of the recommended plan. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
integrating computer-readable program code into a computer infrastructure comprising the processor, a computer readable memory and a computer readable storage medium, wherein the computer readable program code is embodied on the computer readable storage medium and comprises instructions for execution by the processor via the computer readable memory that cause the processor to perform the steps of creating the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period as the function of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation, optimizing the first, second and third plans via the at least one greedy algorithm, penalty method algorithm and cooperative optimization, predicting via the Monte Carlo methodology the future values of the input variable at the execution time of the first, second and third plans, and modifying the optimized first, second and third plans to meet the threshold as the function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 9. A system, comprising:
a hardware processor; a computer readable memory in communication with the hardware processor; and a computer-readable hardware storage device in communication with the hardware processor; wherein the hardware processor executes program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby: creates a plurality of different conservation plans for a region for a future time period as a function of a determined rate of change of availability of a resource identified for conservation, wherein the plurality of conservation plans includes a first plan that has a least implementation cost relative to implementation costs of a second plan and a third plan of the plurality of conservation plans, the second plan that has a fastest time for implementation relative to times for implementation of the first plan and the third plan, and the third plan that conserves a most amount of the resource identified for conservation relative to amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are conserved by the first plan and the second plan; optimizes the first, second and third plans via one of a greedy algorithm, a penalty method algorithm and a cooperative optimization; predicts via a Monte Carlo methodology future values of an input variable at an execution time of the first, second and third plans; and modifies the optimized first, second and third plans to meet a threshold as a function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
selects a customizable resource conservation module from a provided plurality of different customizable resource conservation modules as a function of the selected module being customized to the resource identified for conservation, wherein the selected module includes requirements unique to the resource identified for conservation, and wherein each of the different customizable resource conservation modules are customized to different ones of a plurality of distinct resources that includes the resource identified for conservation; and uses the selected customizable resource conservation module to determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
determines the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation from: a real-time sensor input comprising a current level of usage of the resource identified for conservation; a dynamic data feed comprising at least one of weather conditions, and demands for the resource identified for conservation that are currently predicted to occur over a future time period; static data comprising a number of facility items using the resource identified for conservation; and historic data comprising at least one of an average usage rate of the resource identified for conservation by the facility items, and a historic weather pattern for a region comprising the facility items; and creates the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period by applying the selected customizable resource conservation module to the inputs of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource, the real-time sensor input, the dynamic data feed, the static data and the historic data. 12. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
displays the optimized first, second and third plans in a single table diagram that: distinguishes different values of implementation costs, times for implementation and total amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are each displayed for each of the displayed plans; identifies the first plan as having the least implementation cost, the second plan as having the fastest time for implementation, and the third plan as conserving the most amount of the resource identified for conservation; and displays sets of ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions to be taken to implement each of the optimized first, second and third plans and in association with respective ones of the optimized first, second and third plans, wherein each of the sets of ordered pluralities are associated with different ones of the optimized first, second and third plans and comprise different orders of the location-specific actions. 13. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
displays each of the sets of the ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions in the single table in association with time periods for taking the ordered actions, wherein the time periods are subsets of a total time of the time for implementation of an associated plan of the optimized first, second and third plans. 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
predicts each of a plurality of values of an input variable at a time of execution of each of the optimized first, second and third plans; predicts a future severity of a shortage of the resource identified for conservation; and creates the optimized first, second and third plans as a function of the plurality of predicted values of the input variable and the predicted future shortage severity. 15. An article of manufacture, comprising:
a computer readable storage hardware device having computer readable program code embodied therewith, the computer readable program code comprising instructions for execution by a computer system processor that cause the processor to: create a plurality of different conservation plans for a region for a future time period as a function of a determined rate of change of availability of a resource identified for conservation, wherein the plurality of conservation plans includes a first plan that has a least implementation cost relative to implementation costs of a second plan and a third plan of the plurality of conservation plans, the second plan that has a fastest time for implementation relative to times for implementation of the first plan and the third plan, and the third plan that conserves a most amount of the resource identified for conservation relative to amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are conserved by the first plan and the second plan; optimize the first, second and third plans via one of a greedy algorithm, a penalty method algorithm and a cooperative optimization; predict via a Monte Carlo methodology future values of an input variable at an execution time of the first, second and third plans; and modify the optimized first, second and third plans to meet a threshold as a function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 16. The article of manufacture of claim 15, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to:
select a customizable resource conservation module from a provided plurality of different customizable resource conservation modules as a function of the selected module being customized to the resource identified for conservation, wherein the selected module includes requirements unique to the resource identified for conservation, and wherein each of the different customizable resource conservation modules are customized to different ones of a plurality of distinct resources that includes the resource identified for conservation; and use the selected customizable resource conservation module to determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation. 17. The article of manufacture of claim 16, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to:
determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation from: a real-time sensor input comprising a current level of usage of the resource identified for conservation; a dynamic data feed comprising at least one of weather conditions, and demands for the resource identified for conservation that are currently predicted to occur over a future time period; static data comprising a number of facility items using the resource identified for conservation; and historic data comprising at least one of an average usage rate of the resource identified for conservation by the facility items, and a historic weather pattern for a region comprising the facility items; and create the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period by applying the selected customizable resource conservation module to the inputs of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource, the real-time sensor input, the dynamic data feed, the static data and the historic data. 18. The article of manufacture of claim 15, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to display the optimized first, second and third plans in a single table diagram that:
distinguishes different values of implementation costs, times for implementation and total amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are each displayed for each of the displayed plans; identifies the first plan as having the least implementation cost, the second plan as having the fastest time for implementation, and the third plan as conserving the most amount of the resource identified for conservation; and displays sets of ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions to be taken to implement each of the optimized first, second and third plans and in association with respective ones of the optimized first, second and third plans, wherein each of the sets of ordered pluralities are associated with different ones of the optimized first, second and third plans and comprise different orders of the location-specific actions. 19. The article of manufacture of claim 18, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to display each of the sets of the ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions in the single table in association with time periods for taking the ordered actions, wherein the time periods are subsets of a total time of the time for implementation of an associated plan of the optimized first, second and third plans. 20. The article of manufacture of claim 15, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to:
predict each of a plurality of values of an input variable at a time of execution of each of the optimized first, second and third plans; predict a future severity of a shortage of the resource identified for conservation; and create the optimized first, second and third plans as a function of the plurality of predicted values of the input variable and the predicted future shortage severity. | Methods, including service methods, articles of manufacture, systems, articles and programmable devices provide a conservation modeling engine framework. Programmable conservation modeling engines in communication with different customizable resource conservation modules, each resource conservation module customized to a distinct resource, select one of the modules customized to a resource identified for conservation, and user-defined criteria as a function of the identified resource and the selected module. Input data is selected and collected as a function of the resource identified and the selected module and used to weight the input data. Different optimized conservation plans are created as a function of the weighted input data and the selected module, each of the optimized conservation plans displayed having a different implementation cost, a different time for implementation and a different total amount of the identified resource saved.1. A computer implemented method for conservation modeling, the method comprising executing on a processor the steps of:
creating a plurality of different conservation plans for a region for a future time period as a function of a determined rate of change of availability of a resource identified for conservation, wherein the plurality of conservation plans includes a first plan that has a least implementation cost relative to implementation costs of a second plan and a third plan of the plurality of conservation plans, the second plan that has a fastest time for implementation relative to times for implementation of the first plan and the third plan, and the third plan that conserves a most amount of the resource identified for conservation relative to amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are conserved by the first plan and the second plan; optimizing the first, second and third plans via at least one of a greedy algorithm, a penalty method algorithm and a cooperative optimization; predicting via a Monte Carlo methodology future values of an input variable at an execution time of the first, second and third plans; and modifying the optimized first, second and third plans to meet a threshold as a function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising
selecting a customizable resource conservation module from a provided plurality of different customizable resource conservation modules as a function of the selected module being customized to the resource identified for conservation, wherein the selected module includes requirements unique to the resource identified for conservation, and wherein each of the different customizable resource conservation modules are customized to different ones of a plurality of distinct resources that includes the resource identified for conservation; and using the selected customizable resource conservation module to determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising:
determining the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation from: a real-time sensor input comprising a current level of usage of the resource identified for conservation; a dynamic data feed comprising at least one of weather conditions, and demands for the resource identified for conservation that are currently predicted to occur over a future time period; static data comprising a number of facility items using the resource identified for conservation; and historic data comprising at least one of an average usage rate of the resource identified for conservation by the facility items, and a historic weather pattern for a region comprising the facility items; and creating the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period by applying the selected customizable resource conservation module to the inputs of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource, the real-time sensor input, the dynamic data feed, the static data and the historic data. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
displaying the optimized first, second and third plans in a single table diagram that: distinguishes different values of implementation costs, times for implementation and total amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are each displayed for each of the displayed plans; identifies the first plan as having the least implementation cost, the second plan as having the fastest time for implementation, and the third plan as conserving the most amount of the resource identified for conservation; and displays sets of ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions to be taken to implement each of the optimized first, second and third plans and in association with respective ones of the optimized first, second and third plans, wherein each of the sets of ordered pluralities are associated with different ones of the optimized first, second and third plans and comprise different orders of the location-specific actions. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
displaying each of the sets of the ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions in association with time periods for taking the ordered actions, wherein the time periods are subsets of a total time of the time for implementation of an associated plan of the optimized first, second and third plans. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
predicting each of a plurality of values of an input variable at a time of execution of each of the optimized first, second and third plans; predicting a future severity of a shortage of the resource identified for conservation; and wherein the step of creating the optimized first, second and third plans is further a function of the plurality of predicted values of the input variable and the predicted future shortage severity. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
calculating and displaying an estimated return-on-investment time period for each of the optimized first, second and third plans as a function of their respective implementation costs; and weighting the first plan, the second plan and the third plan to recommend a plan and a time duration to achieve a return on investment of the recommended plan. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
integrating computer-readable program code into a computer infrastructure comprising the processor, a computer readable memory and a computer readable storage medium, wherein the computer readable program code is embodied on the computer readable storage medium and comprises instructions for execution by the processor via the computer readable memory that cause the processor to perform the steps of creating the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period as the function of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation, optimizing the first, second and third plans via the at least one greedy algorithm, penalty method algorithm and cooperative optimization, predicting via the Monte Carlo methodology the future values of the input variable at the execution time of the first, second and third plans, and modifying the optimized first, second and third plans to meet the threshold as the function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 9. A system, comprising:
a hardware processor; a computer readable memory in communication with the hardware processor; and a computer-readable hardware storage device in communication with the hardware processor; wherein the hardware processor executes program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby: creates a plurality of different conservation plans for a region for a future time period as a function of a determined rate of change of availability of a resource identified for conservation, wherein the plurality of conservation plans includes a first plan that has a least implementation cost relative to implementation costs of a second plan and a third plan of the plurality of conservation plans, the second plan that has a fastest time for implementation relative to times for implementation of the first plan and the third plan, and the third plan that conserves a most amount of the resource identified for conservation relative to amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are conserved by the first plan and the second plan; optimizes the first, second and third plans via one of a greedy algorithm, a penalty method algorithm and a cooperative optimization; predicts via a Monte Carlo methodology future values of an input variable at an execution time of the first, second and third plans; and modifies the optimized first, second and third plans to meet a threshold as a function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
selects a customizable resource conservation module from a provided plurality of different customizable resource conservation modules as a function of the selected module being customized to the resource identified for conservation, wherein the selected module includes requirements unique to the resource identified for conservation, and wherein each of the different customizable resource conservation modules are customized to different ones of a plurality of distinct resources that includes the resource identified for conservation; and uses the selected customizable resource conservation module to determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
determines the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation from: a real-time sensor input comprising a current level of usage of the resource identified for conservation; a dynamic data feed comprising at least one of weather conditions, and demands for the resource identified for conservation that are currently predicted to occur over a future time period; static data comprising a number of facility items using the resource identified for conservation; and historic data comprising at least one of an average usage rate of the resource identified for conservation by the facility items, and a historic weather pattern for a region comprising the facility items; and creates the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period by applying the selected customizable resource conservation module to the inputs of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource, the real-time sensor input, the dynamic data feed, the static data and the historic data. 12. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
displays the optimized first, second and third plans in a single table diagram that: distinguishes different values of implementation costs, times for implementation and total amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are each displayed for each of the displayed plans; identifies the first plan as having the least implementation cost, the second plan as having the fastest time for implementation, and the third plan as conserving the most amount of the resource identified for conservation; and displays sets of ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions to be taken to implement each of the optimized first, second and third plans and in association with respective ones of the optimized first, second and third plans, wherein each of the sets of ordered pluralities are associated with different ones of the optimized first, second and third plans and comprise different orders of the location-specific actions. 13. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
displays each of the sets of the ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions in the single table in association with time periods for taking the ordered actions, wherein the time periods are subsets of a total time of the time for implementation of an associated plan of the optimized first, second and third plans. 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor executes the program instructions stored on the computer-readable hardware storage device via the computer readable memory and thereby further:
predicts each of a plurality of values of an input variable at a time of execution of each of the optimized first, second and third plans; predicts a future severity of a shortage of the resource identified for conservation; and creates the optimized first, second and third plans as a function of the plurality of predicted values of the input variable and the predicted future shortage severity. 15. An article of manufacture, comprising:
a computer readable storage hardware device having computer readable program code embodied therewith, the computer readable program code comprising instructions for execution by a computer system processor that cause the processor to: create a plurality of different conservation plans for a region for a future time period as a function of a determined rate of change of availability of a resource identified for conservation, wherein the plurality of conservation plans includes a first plan that has a least implementation cost relative to implementation costs of a second plan and a third plan of the plurality of conservation plans, the second plan that has a fastest time for implementation relative to times for implementation of the first plan and the third plan, and the third plan that conserves a most amount of the resource identified for conservation relative to amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are conserved by the first plan and the second plan; optimize the first, second and third plans via one of a greedy algorithm, a penalty method algorithm and a cooperative optimization; predict via a Monte Carlo methodology future values of an input variable at an execution time of the first, second and third plans; and modify the optimized first, second and third plans to meet a threshold as a function of the predicted future value of the input variable. 16. The article of manufacture of claim 15, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to:
select a customizable resource conservation module from a provided plurality of different customizable resource conservation modules as a function of the selected module being customized to the resource identified for conservation, wherein the selected module includes requirements unique to the resource identified for conservation, and wherein each of the different customizable resource conservation modules are customized to different ones of a plurality of distinct resources that includes the resource identified for conservation; and use the selected customizable resource conservation module to determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation. 17. The article of manufacture of claim 16, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to:
determine the rate of change of availability of the resource identified for conservation from: a real-time sensor input comprising a current level of usage of the resource identified for conservation; a dynamic data feed comprising at least one of weather conditions, and demands for the resource identified for conservation that are currently predicted to occur over a future time period; static data comprising a number of facility items using the resource identified for conservation; and historic data comprising at least one of an average usage rate of the resource identified for conservation by the facility items, and a historic weather pattern for a region comprising the facility items; and create the plurality of different conservation plans for the region for the future time period by applying the selected customizable resource conservation module to the inputs of the determined rate of change of availability of the resource, the real-time sensor input, the dynamic data feed, the static data and the historic data. 18. The article of manufacture of claim 15, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to display the optimized first, second and third plans in a single table diagram that:
distinguishes different values of implementation costs, times for implementation and total amounts of the resource identified for conservation that are each displayed for each of the displayed plans; identifies the first plan as having the least implementation cost, the second plan as having the fastest time for implementation, and the third plan as conserving the most amount of the resource identified for conservation; and displays sets of ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions to be taken to implement each of the optimized first, second and third plans and in association with respective ones of the optimized first, second and third plans, wherein each of the sets of ordered pluralities are associated with different ones of the optimized first, second and third plans and comprise different orders of the location-specific actions. 19. The article of manufacture of claim 18, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to display each of the sets of the ordered pluralities of different location-specific actions in the single table in association with time periods for taking the ordered actions, wherein the time periods are subsets of a total time of the time for implementation of an associated plan of the optimized first, second and third plans. 20. The article of manufacture of claim 15, wherein the computer readable program code instructions for execution by the processor further cause the processor to:
predict each of a plurality of values of an input variable at a time of execution of each of the optimized first, second and third plans; predict a future severity of a shortage of the resource identified for conservation; and create the optimized first, second and third plans as a function of the plurality of predicted values of the input variable and the predicted future shortage severity. | 3,600 |
13,314 | 13,314 | 14,334,423 | 3,686 | Methods and systems are described for obtaining consent to use media. A computer-implemented method for obtaining media consent includes generating media related to at least one person, automatically prompt the at least one person to provide a digital consent to use the media, receiving the at least one person's digital consent, and delivering the digital consent to a storage location. | 1. A computer-implemented method for obtaining digital consent to use dental related media, comprising:
generating dental related media related to at least one person in a dental office setting using a media generating device, the media generating device including a camera, the media including at least one of a digital image of the at least one person, or a video clip of the at least one person, or an audio recording of the at least one person, or any combination thereof; automatically displaying on a display of the media generating device immediately after generating the media a consent form for the at least one person to provide a digital consent to use the media; receiving the at least one person's digital consent on the consent form, wherein the media is released for use only upon receiving the digital consent; delivering the consent form with the digital consent to a storage location; presenting at least one social media site option for posting the media; receiving at least one social media site selection; and delivering the media to the at least one selected social media site; wherein a content of the media is unrelated to providing consent to use the media. 2. (canceled) 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the consent form is a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant form. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the at least one person's digital consent comprises:
receiving the at least one person's digital signature or a signature of a parent or guardian of the at least one person. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the media generating device is a handheld computing device. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein delivering the consent form with the digital consent comprises:
emailing the consent form with the digital consent. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
storing the consent form with the digital consent in a database. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the at least one person's digital consent comprises:
receiving information including at least one of a name or address of the at least one person; and entering the information into the consent form. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein prompting the at least one person for digital consent occurs automatically after generating the media. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
displaying the media on the media generating device. 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
delivering the media with the consent form and digital consent to the storage location. 12. An apparatus for obtaining digital consent to use dental related media, comprising:
a processor; a memory in electronic communication with the processor; a camera; and instructions stored in the memory, the instructions being executable by the processor to:
generate dental related media related to a dental patient in a dental office setting using the camera, the media including at least one of a digital image of the at least one person, or a video clip of the at least one person, or an audio recording of the at least one person, or any combination thereof;
automatically displaying on a display of the media generating device immediately after generating the media a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant, electronic consent form to the dental patient for use of the media;
receive the dental patient's digital consent on the consent form, wherein the media is released for use only upon receiving the digital consent;
store the consent form; and
deliver the media to a social media site;
wherein a content of the media is unrelated to providing consent to use the media. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to:
deliver the consent form to a remote location. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein receiving the dental patient's digital consent comprises:
receiving at least one of a full name and an electronic signature of the dental patient and a full name and signature of a parent or guardian of the patient. 15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the apparatus is a handheld computing device. 16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the media includes a digital image of at least some of the dental patient's teeth. 17. A computer-program product for obtaining consent to use dental related media, the computer-program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by a processor to:
generate with a camera of a handheld device dental related media related to a dental patient in a dental office setting; display the media to the dental patient on a display of the device; automatically displaying on the display a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant, electronic consent form to the dental patient on the handheld device immediately after displaying the media to the dental patient; receive the dental patient's consent on the consent form using the handheld device, wherein the media is released for use only upon receiving the consent; and deliver the consent form to at least one destination; wherein a content of the media is unrelated to providing consent to use the media. 18. The computer-program product of claim 17, wherein delivering the consent form comprises emailing the consent form, and the at least one destination comprises a dental office. 19. The computer-program product of claim 17, wherein the device is a handheld, mobile computing device. 20. The computer-program product of claim 17, wherein presenting the consent form comprises:
displaying the consent form after displaying the media. | Methods and systems are described for obtaining consent to use media. A computer-implemented method for obtaining media consent includes generating media related to at least one person, automatically prompt the at least one person to provide a digital consent to use the media, receiving the at least one person's digital consent, and delivering the digital consent to a storage location.1. A computer-implemented method for obtaining digital consent to use dental related media, comprising:
generating dental related media related to at least one person in a dental office setting using a media generating device, the media generating device including a camera, the media including at least one of a digital image of the at least one person, or a video clip of the at least one person, or an audio recording of the at least one person, or any combination thereof; automatically displaying on a display of the media generating device immediately after generating the media a consent form for the at least one person to provide a digital consent to use the media; receiving the at least one person's digital consent on the consent form, wherein the media is released for use only upon receiving the digital consent; delivering the consent form with the digital consent to a storage location; presenting at least one social media site option for posting the media; receiving at least one social media site selection; and delivering the media to the at least one selected social media site; wherein a content of the media is unrelated to providing consent to use the media. 2. (canceled) 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the consent form is a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant form. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the at least one person's digital consent comprises:
receiving the at least one person's digital signature or a signature of a parent or guardian of the at least one person. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the media generating device is a handheld computing device. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein delivering the consent form with the digital consent comprises:
emailing the consent form with the digital consent. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
storing the consent form with the digital consent in a database. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the at least one person's digital consent comprises:
receiving information including at least one of a name or address of the at least one person; and entering the information into the consent form. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein prompting the at least one person for digital consent occurs automatically after generating the media. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
displaying the media on the media generating device. 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
delivering the media with the consent form and digital consent to the storage location. 12. An apparatus for obtaining digital consent to use dental related media, comprising:
a processor; a memory in electronic communication with the processor; a camera; and instructions stored in the memory, the instructions being executable by the processor to:
generate dental related media related to a dental patient in a dental office setting using the camera, the media including at least one of a digital image of the at least one person, or a video clip of the at least one person, or an audio recording of the at least one person, or any combination thereof;
automatically displaying on a display of the media generating device immediately after generating the media a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant, electronic consent form to the dental patient for use of the media;
receive the dental patient's digital consent on the consent form, wherein the media is released for use only upon receiving the digital consent;
store the consent form; and
deliver the media to a social media site;
wherein a content of the media is unrelated to providing consent to use the media. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to:
deliver the consent form to a remote location. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein receiving the dental patient's digital consent comprises:
receiving at least one of a full name and an electronic signature of the dental patient and a full name and signature of a parent or guardian of the patient. 15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the apparatus is a handheld computing device. 16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the media includes a digital image of at least some of the dental patient's teeth. 17. A computer-program product for obtaining consent to use dental related media, the computer-program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by a processor to:
generate with a camera of a handheld device dental related media related to a dental patient in a dental office setting; display the media to the dental patient on a display of the device; automatically displaying on the display a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant, electronic consent form to the dental patient on the handheld device immediately after displaying the media to the dental patient; receive the dental patient's consent on the consent form using the handheld device, wherein the media is released for use only upon receiving the consent; and deliver the consent form to at least one destination; wherein a content of the media is unrelated to providing consent to use the media. 18. The computer-program product of claim 17, wherein delivering the consent form comprises emailing the consent form, and the at least one destination comprises a dental office. 19. The computer-program product of claim 17, wherein the device is a handheld, mobile computing device. 20. The computer-program product of claim 17, wherein presenting the consent form comprises:
displaying the consent form after displaying the media. | 3,600 |
13,315 | 13,315 | 14,487,194 | 3,645 | Ultrasonic locationing interleaved with alternate audio functions includes a plurality of transmitters for emitting ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals. A backend controller schedules the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals from each transmitter. The backend controller can characterize an interference effect of defined interference parameters for each alternate audio signal, with respect to the ultrasonic bursts, and modify interleave scheduling of the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals in accordance with the respective interference effect. A mobile device can receive the ultrasonic bursts for locationing of the mobile device, while a user or other device that can act on information in the alternate audio signals. Input from a user to an interface device can trigger the backend controller to schedule an alternate audio signal containing information related to the input. | 1. A system for ultrasonic locationing interleaved with alternate audio functions, the system comprising:
a plurality of transmitters operable to emit ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals; a backend controller communicatively coupled to the transmitters, the backend controller including a scheduler operable to schedule the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals from each transmitter, wherein the backend controller is operable to characterize an interference effect of defined interference parameters for each alternate audio signal, with respect to the ultrasonic bursts, the scheduler to scheduling interleaving of the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals in accordance with the respective interference effect; a mobile device communicatively coupled to the backend controller, the mobile device being operable to receive the ultrasonic bursts for locationing of the mobile device; and a user or other device that can act on information in the alternate audio signals. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising an input interface device coupled to the backend controller, wherein input supplied from the input interface device triggers the backend controller to schedule an alternate audio signal containing information related to the input. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is at least one of the group of a camera, a wireless communication interface, a Radio Frequency Identification reader, an alarm, a sensor, a timer, and an audio interface. 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is a particular gesture forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes directions for the user to take in response to the particular gesture. 5. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is a particular gesture at a location forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes directions for the user to take in response to the particular gesture at that location. 6. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is a presenting an object to the camera, which is forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes one of the group of a price of the object, a quantity of the object in stock, and acknowledgement to replenish the stock of the object. 7. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a Radio Frequency Identification reader, and wherein the input is placing an object near the reader to be read by the reader and forward an identification of the object to the backend controller, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes a price of the object for the user. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the input interface also includes a camera that provides video to the backend controller so that the backend controller can verify that the object being read by the Radio Frequency Identification reader is being moved by the user. 9. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is capturing an image of an event by the camera, which is forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can identify the event and schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in ultrasonic form to change a state of a device. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is capturing an image of the user by the camera, which is forwarded to the backend controller for facial recognition, whereupon the backend controller can verify an identity of the user and schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in ultrasonic form to unlock a device to permit access for the user. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the camera can further track the user through a point-of-sale. 12. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a sensor, and wherein the input is an alert provided by the sensor, which is forwarded to the backend controller, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing the alert information to the user or other device. 13. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is an audio interface in the mobile device able to detect a Doppler shift in an ultrasonic burst indicating motion of the mobile device, and wherein the input is an indication that the mobile device is moving, which is forwarded to the backend controller, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing Doppler information in an ultrasonic pulse longer than the ultrasonic burst in order to obtain a Doppler measurement of the pulse. 14. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a timer, and wherein the input is an alert provided by expiry of the timer, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing an ultrasonic signal to generate loud noise. 15. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is an audio interface able to detect noise in the environment, and wherein the input is a noise level, which is forwarded to the backend controller to determine a location of the noise and whether the noise level is more than a normal noise level, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information to direct associates to the location. 16. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is an audio interface able to detect noise in the environment, and wherein the input is a noise level, which is forwarded to the backend controller to determine if the noise level is more than a threshold, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing emergency information for people within the environment. 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the backend controller is further operable to characterize a power profile of each alternate audio function, and the scheduler is further operable to interleave each alternate audio function without exceeding any heating and voltage drop limits in the power profile. 18. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a timer, and wherein the input is an alert provided by expiry of the timer, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing an ultrasonic signal having a frequency and sensitivity to annoy pests from populating the transmitters. 19. A method for ultrasonic locationing interleaved with alternate audio functions, the method comprising:
providing a plurality of transmitters; defining interference parameters for each alternate audio signal; characterize an interference effect of the defined interference parameters for each alternate audio signal with respect to the ultrasonic bursts; scheduling interleaving of the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals from each transmitter in accordance with the respective interference effect; receiving the ultrasonic bursts for locationing of a mobile device; and acting on information in the alternate audio signals. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of supplying input to trigger scheduling of an alternate audio signal containing information related to the input. | Ultrasonic locationing interleaved with alternate audio functions includes a plurality of transmitters for emitting ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals. A backend controller schedules the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals from each transmitter. The backend controller can characterize an interference effect of defined interference parameters for each alternate audio signal, with respect to the ultrasonic bursts, and modify interleave scheduling of the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals in accordance with the respective interference effect. A mobile device can receive the ultrasonic bursts for locationing of the mobile device, while a user or other device that can act on information in the alternate audio signals. Input from a user to an interface device can trigger the backend controller to schedule an alternate audio signal containing information related to the input.1. A system for ultrasonic locationing interleaved with alternate audio functions, the system comprising:
a plurality of transmitters operable to emit ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals; a backend controller communicatively coupled to the transmitters, the backend controller including a scheduler operable to schedule the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals from each transmitter, wherein the backend controller is operable to characterize an interference effect of defined interference parameters for each alternate audio signal, with respect to the ultrasonic bursts, the scheduler to scheduling interleaving of the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals in accordance with the respective interference effect; a mobile device communicatively coupled to the backend controller, the mobile device being operable to receive the ultrasonic bursts for locationing of the mobile device; and a user or other device that can act on information in the alternate audio signals. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising an input interface device coupled to the backend controller, wherein input supplied from the input interface device triggers the backend controller to schedule an alternate audio signal containing information related to the input. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is at least one of the group of a camera, a wireless communication interface, a Radio Frequency Identification reader, an alarm, a sensor, a timer, and an audio interface. 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is a particular gesture forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes directions for the user to take in response to the particular gesture. 5. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is a particular gesture at a location forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes directions for the user to take in response to the particular gesture at that location. 6. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is a presenting an object to the camera, which is forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes one of the group of a price of the object, a quantity of the object in stock, and acknowledgement to replenish the stock of the object. 7. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a Radio Frequency Identification reader, and wherein the input is placing an object near the reader to be read by the reader and forward an identification of the object to the backend controller, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in audible form that includes a price of the object for the user. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the input interface also includes a camera that provides video to the backend controller so that the backend controller can verify that the object being read by the Radio Frequency Identification reader is being moved by the user. 9. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is capturing an image of an event by the camera, which is forwarded to the backend controller for recognition, whereupon the backend controller can identify the event and schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in ultrasonic form to change a state of a device. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the input interface is a camera, and wherein the input is capturing an image of the user by the camera, which is forwarded to the backend controller for facial recognition, whereupon the backend controller can verify an identity of the user and schedule an alternate audio signal containing information in ultrasonic form to unlock a device to permit access for the user. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the camera can further track the user through a point-of-sale. 12. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a sensor, and wherein the input is an alert provided by the sensor, which is forwarded to the backend controller, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing the alert information to the user or other device. 13. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is an audio interface in the mobile device able to detect a Doppler shift in an ultrasonic burst indicating motion of the mobile device, and wherein the input is an indication that the mobile device is moving, which is forwarded to the backend controller, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing Doppler information in an ultrasonic pulse longer than the ultrasonic burst in order to obtain a Doppler measurement of the pulse. 14. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a timer, and wherein the input is an alert provided by expiry of the timer, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing an ultrasonic signal to generate loud noise. 15. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is an audio interface able to detect noise in the environment, and wherein the input is a noise level, which is forwarded to the backend controller to determine a location of the noise and whether the noise level is more than a normal noise level, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing information to direct associates to the location. 16. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is an audio interface able to detect noise in the environment, and wherein the input is a noise level, which is forwarded to the backend controller to determine if the noise level is more than a threshold, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing emergency information for people within the environment. 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the backend controller is further operable to characterize a power profile of each alternate audio function, and the scheduler is further operable to interleave each alternate audio function without exceeding any heating and voltage drop limits in the power profile. 18. The system of claim 2, wherein the input interface is a timer, and wherein the input is an alert provided by expiry of the timer, whereupon the backend controller can schedule an alternate audio signal containing an ultrasonic signal having a frequency and sensitivity to annoy pests from populating the transmitters. 19. A method for ultrasonic locationing interleaved with alternate audio functions, the method comprising:
providing a plurality of transmitters; defining interference parameters for each alternate audio signal; characterize an interference effect of the defined interference parameters for each alternate audio signal with respect to the ultrasonic bursts; scheduling interleaving of the ultrasonic bursts and alternate audio signals from each transmitter in accordance with the respective interference effect; receiving the ultrasonic bursts for locationing of a mobile device; and acting on information in the alternate audio signals. 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of supplying input to trigger scheduling of an alternate audio signal containing information related to the input. | 3,600 |
13,316 | 13,316 | 14,414,922 | 3,626 | A system ( 100 ) for generating a report ( 142 ) based on input from a radiologist in response to a clinical query from a clinician, comprising: a reporting input ( 120 ) for enabling the radiologist to provide medical information ( 122 ); a reporting output ( 140 ) for generating a report ( 142 ) comprising the medical information ( 122 ); the system ( 100 ) further comprising: an interface ( 160 ) for receiving data ( 162 ) indicative of the clinical query; a reasoning engine ( 180 ) for, based on the clinical query, establishing at least one building block ( 182 ) for use by the reporting output ( 140 ) in generating the report ( 142 ), the building block specifying a form and content of at least part of the report ( 142 ); and wherein the reporting input ( 120 ) is arranged for, based on the building block ( 182 ), establishing a reporting interface ( 124 ) for use in providing the medical information. | 1. A system for generating a report based on input from a radiologist in response to a clinical query from a clinician, comprising:
a reporting input for enabling the radiologist to provide medical information; a reporting output for generating a report comprising the medical information; the system further comprising: an interface for receiving data indicative of the clinical query; a reasoning engine for, i) analyzing the clinical query to determine a form and content of at least part of the report, and ii) encoding the form and content into a data package representing at least one building block for use by the reporting output in generating the report; and wherein the reporting input is arranged for, based on the building block, establishing a graphical user interface representing a customized reporting interface for use by the radiologist in providing the medical information. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein:
the interface is arranged for receiving a data representation of a radiology request; and the reasoning engine is arranged for identifying the clinical query based on said data representation of the radiology request. 3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the building block specifies a hanging protocol, and wherein the reporting input is arranged for, as part of the graphical user interface, displaying one or more medical images (C, S, T, LCC, RCC, LMLO, RMLO) in accordance with the hanging protocol. 4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the reporting output is arranged for including the one or more medical images (C, S, T, LCC, RCC, LMLO, RMLO) in the report based on the hanging protocol. 5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the hanging protocol defines at least one of: a display order, a display layout, a distribution over multiple displays, a display size, a window width parameter, a window level parameter, a pan parameter, a zoom parameter, of the one or more medical images (C, S, T, LCC, RCC, LMLO, RMLO). 6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the building block is indicative of a reporting tool for use in providing the medical information, and wherein the reporting input is arranged for establishing the reporting tool as part of the graphical user interface. 7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the reporting tool is an image measurement tool for enabling the radiologist to perform an image measurement. 8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the reporting input is arranged for establishing the image measurement tool by at least one of:
customizing a generic image measurement tool; automatically selecting the image measurement tool from a plurality of image measurement tools; and ranking a plurality of image measurement tools based on a relevance for the clinical query for enabling the radiologist to manually select the image measurement tool. 9. The system according to claim 7, wherein the building block is indicative of a clinical tolerance, and wherein the reporting input is arranged for configuring the image measurement tool based on the clinical tolerance. 10. The system according to claim 6, wherein the reporting tool is an auto-completion tool providing a plurality of medical terms for auto-completing a partial medical term provided by the radiologist. 11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the auto-completion tool is arranged for ranking the plurality of medical terms based on a relevance for the clinical query. 12. The system according to claim 1, wherein:
the reporting input is arranged for enabling the radiologist to provide the medical information throughout a radiology workflow; and the reasoning engine is arranged for updating the building block during the radiology workflow based on requests and/or results in the radiology workflow. 13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the building block is updated based on at least one of: a radiology request, an imaging request and one or more medical images. 14. (canceled) 15. (canceled) 16. (canceled) 17. (canceled) 18. Method for generating a report based on input from a radiologist in response to a clinical query from a clinician, comprising:
enabling the radiologist to provide medical information; generating a report comprising the medical information; the method further comprising: receiving data indicative of the clinical query; analyzing the clinical query to determine a form and content of at least pall of the report; encoding the form and content into a data package representing at least one building block for use in generating the report; and based on the building block, establishing a graphical user interface representing a customized reporting interface for use by the radiologist in providing the medical information. 19. A computer program product comprising instructions for causing a processor system to perform the method according to claim 18. | A system ( 100 ) for generating a report ( 142 ) based on input from a radiologist in response to a clinical query from a clinician, comprising: a reporting input ( 120 ) for enabling the radiologist to provide medical information ( 122 ); a reporting output ( 140 ) for generating a report ( 142 ) comprising the medical information ( 122 ); the system ( 100 ) further comprising: an interface ( 160 ) for receiving data ( 162 ) indicative of the clinical query; a reasoning engine ( 180 ) for, based on the clinical query, establishing at least one building block ( 182 ) for use by the reporting output ( 140 ) in generating the report ( 142 ), the building block specifying a form and content of at least part of the report ( 142 ); and wherein the reporting input ( 120 ) is arranged for, based on the building block ( 182 ), establishing a reporting interface ( 124 ) for use in providing the medical information.1. A system for generating a report based on input from a radiologist in response to a clinical query from a clinician, comprising:
a reporting input for enabling the radiologist to provide medical information; a reporting output for generating a report comprising the medical information; the system further comprising: an interface for receiving data indicative of the clinical query; a reasoning engine for, i) analyzing the clinical query to determine a form and content of at least part of the report, and ii) encoding the form and content into a data package representing at least one building block for use by the reporting output in generating the report; and wherein the reporting input is arranged for, based on the building block, establishing a graphical user interface representing a customized reporting interface for use by the radiologist in providing the medical information. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein:
the interface is arranged for receiving a data representation of a radiology request; and the reasoning engine is arranged for identifying the clinical query based on said data representation of the radiology request. 3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the building block specifies a hanging protocol, and wherein the reporting input is arranged for, as part of the graphical user interface, displaying one or more medical images (C, S, T, LCC, RCC, LMLO, RMLO) in accordance with the hanging protocol. 4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the reporting output is arranged for including the one or more medical images (C, S, T, LCC, RCC, LMLO, RMLO) in the report based on the hanging protocol. 5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the hanging protocol defines at least one of: a display order, a display layout, a distribution over multiple displays, a display size, a window width parameter, a window level parameter, a pan parameter, a zoom parameter, of the one or more medical images (C, S, T, LCC, RCC, LMLO, RMLO). 6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the building block is indicative of a reporting tool for use in providing the medical information, and wherein the reporting input is arranged for establishing the reporting tool as part of the graphical user interface. 7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the reporting tool is an image measurement tool for enabling the radiologist to perform an image measurement. 8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the reporting input is arranged for establishing the image measurement tool by at least one of:
customizing a generic image measurement tool; automatically selecting the image measurement tool from a plurality of image measurement tools; and ranking a plurality of image measurement tools based on a relevance for the clinical query for enabling the radiologist to manually select the image measurement tool. 9. The system according to claim 7, wherein the building block is indicative of a clinical tolerance, and wherein the reporting input is arranged for configuring the image measurement tool based on the clinical tolerance. 10. The system according to claim 6, wherein the reporting tool is an auto-completion tool providing a plurality of medical terms for auto-completing a partial medical term provided by the radiologist. 11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the auto-completion tool is arranged for ranking the plurality of medical terms based on a relevance for the clinical query. 12. The system according to claim 1, wherein:
the reporting input is arranged for enabling the radiologist to provide the medical information throughout a radiology workflow; and the reasoning engine is arranged for updating the building block during the radiology workflow based on requests and/or results in the radiology workflow. 13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the building block is updated based on at least one of: a radiology request, an imaging request and one or more medical images. 14. (canceled) 15. (canceled) 16. (canceled) 17. (canceled) 18. Method for generating a report based on input from a radiologist in response to a clinical query from a clinician, comprising:
enabling the radiologist to provide medical information; generating a report comprising the medical information; the method further comprising: receiving data indicative of the clinical query; analyzing the clinical query to determine a form and content of at least pall of the report; encoding the form and content into a data package representing at least one building block for use in generating the report; and based on the building block, establishing a graphical user interface representing a customized reporting interface for use by the radiologist in providing the medical information. 19. A computer program product comprising instructions for causing a processor system to perform the method according to claim 18. | 3,600 |
13,317 | 13,317 | 13,198,809 | 3,622 | A system and method for tracking performance of an action in an application is disclosed in which a link to perform the application action is transmitted to a client device. In response to receiving an indication of the selection of the link, the performance of the action in the application by the client device is detected. Based on the detected performance of the application action, reward data is associated with a user of the client device. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
transmitting, to a client device, a link to perform an action in an application; responsive to receiving an indication of a selection of the link, detecting, by at least one processor, the performance of the action in the application by the client device; and associating reward data with a user of the client device in response to the detecting of the performance of the action by the client device. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the link is associated with a referral offer to perform the action in the application, and further comprising storing access by the client device to the referral offer. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a credit from an advertiser, the credit being deposited in an advertiser account, wherein a portion of the credit is to be paid for every performance of the action; storing financial transaction data corresponding to the associated reward data; adjusting a value in the advertiser account to account for the performance of the action; and adjusting a value in a publisher account to account for the performance of the action. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the detecting of the performance of the action comprises at least one of:
receiving a first indication from the application executing on the client device, the first indication corresponding to an initiation of the performance of the action; and receiving a second indication from the application executing on the client device, the second indication corresponding to a completion of the performance of the action. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising determining an amount of time elapsed between the receiving of the first indication and the receiving of the second indication, wherein based on the amount of time elapsed exceeding a predetermined amount of time, notifying the client device of an expiration of an offer to perform the action. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising storing the detection of the performance of the action, the storing of the detection including storing a unique device identifier (Udid) of the client device and an application action identifier (action ID) corresponding to the action being performed. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the reward data is one of a virtual currency amount and a virtual good. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a registration of the action in the application to be performed; and generating an application action identifier (action ID) and action code, the action ID corresponding to the action, and the action code causing the client device to transmit at least one of a first indication and a second indication when the action is respectively initiated and completed. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8, further comprising:
mapping the action ID to the action; storing the action ID and action code with the registration of the action; inserting the action code in the application using a registered protocol handler; and re-directing the user operating the client device to the application. 10. A system comprising:
at least one processor; a referral module, implemented by the at least one processor, configured to generate a link to perform an action in an application; an application usage module, implemented by the at least one processor, configured to detect a performance of the action in the application by a client device; a communication module, implemented by the at least one processor, configured to:
transmit the link to the client device;
receive an indication of the performance of the application action from the client device; and
transmit reward data associated with a user of the client device in response to the detected performance of the action in the application by the client device. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the link is associated with a referral offer to perform the action in the application, and further comprising a database interface module configured to store access by the client device to the referral offer. 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the application usage module is configured to detect the performance of the action by at least one of:
receiving a first indication from the application executing on the client device, the first indication corresponding to an initiation of the performance of the action in the application; and receiving a second indication from the application executing on the client device, the second indication corresponding to a completion of the performance of the action in the application. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the application usage module is further configured to determine an amount of time elapsed between the receiving of the first indication and the receiving of the second indication, wherein based on the amount of time elapsed exceeding a predetermined amount of time, the communication module is further configured to notify the client device of an expiration of an offer to perform the action. 14. The system of claim 10, further comprising a database interface module configured to store the detection of the performance of the action, the storing of the detection including storing a unique device identifier (Udid) of the client device and an application action identifier (action ID) corresponding to the action being performed. 15. The system of claim 10, wherein the reward data is one of a virtual currency amount and a virtual good. 16. The system of claim 10, wherein the referral module is further configured to:
receive a registration of the action to be performed; and generate an application action identifier (action ID) and action code, the action ID corresponding to the action, and the action code causing the client device to transmit at least one of a first indication and a second indication when the action is respectively initiated and completed. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the referral module is further configured to map the action ID to the application action, and further comprising:
a database interface module configured to store the action ID and action code with the registration of the action;
a deep linking module configured to:
insert the action code in the application using a registered protocol handler, the action code re-directing the user operating the client device to the application. 18. A non-transitory machine-readable medium storing a set of instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to perform operations comprising:
transmitting, to a client device, a link to perform an action in an application; responsive to receiving an indication of a selection of the link, detecting, by at least one processor, the performance of the action in the application by the client device; and associating reward data with a user of the client device in response to the detected performance of the action by the client device. 19. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the link is associated with a referral offer to perform the action in the application, and further comprising storing access by the client device to the referral offer. 20. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the detecting of the performance of the action in the application comprises at least one of:
receiving a first indication from the application executing on the client device, the first indication corresponding to an initiation of the performance of the action; and receiving a second indication from the application executing on the client device, the second indication corresponding to a completion of the performance of the action. 21. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 20, wherein the operations further comprise determining an amount of time elapsed between the receiving of the first indication and the receiving of the second indication, wherein based on the amount of time elapsed exceeding a predetermined amount of time, notifying the client device of an expiration of an offer to perform the action. 22. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the operations further comprise storing the detection of the performance of the action, the storing of the detection including storing a unique device identifier (Udid) of the client device and an application action identifier (action ID) corresponding to the action being performed. 23. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the reward data is one of a virtual currency amount and a virtual good. 24. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the operations further comprise:
receiving a registration of the action in the application to be performed; and generating an application action identifier (action ID) and action code, the action ID corresponding to the application action, and the action code causing the client device to transmit at least one of a first indication and a second indication when the action is initiated and completed. 25. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 24, wherein the operations further comprise:
mapping the action ID to the action; storing the action ID and action code with the registration of the action; inserting the action code in the application using a registered protocol handler; and re-directing the user operating the client device to the application. | A system and method for tracking performance of an action in an application is disclosed in which a link to perform the application action is transmitted to a client device. In response to receiving an indication of the selection of the link, the performance of the action in the application by the client device is detected. Based on the detected performance of the application action, reward data is associated with a user of the client device.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
transmitting, to a client device, a link to perform an action in an application; responsive to receiving an indication of a selection of the link, detecting, by at least one processor, the performance of the action in the application by the client device; and associating reward data with a user of the client device in response to the detecting of the performance of the action by the client device. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the link is associated with a referral offer to perform the action in the application, and further comprising storing access by the client device to the referral offer. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a credit from an advertiser, the credit being deposited in an advertiser account, wherein a portion of the credit is to be paid for every performance of the action; storing financial transaction data corresponding to the associated reward data; adjusting a value in the advertiser account to account for the performance of the action; and adjusting a value in a publisher account to account for the performance of the action. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the detecting of the performance of the action comprises at least one of:
receiving a first indication from the application executing on the client device, the first indication corresponding to an initiation of the performance of the action; and receiving a second indication from the application executing on the client device, the second indication corresponding to a completion of the performance of the action. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising determining an amount of time elapsed between the receiving of the first indication and the receiving of the second indication, wherein based on the amount of time elapsed exceeding a predetermined amount of time, notifying the client device of an expiration of an offer to perform the action. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising storing the detection of the performance of the action, the storing of the detection including storing a unique device identifier (Udid) of the client device and an application action identifier (action ID) corresponding to the action being performed. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the reward data is one of a virtual currency amount and a virtual good. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a registration of the action in the application to be performed; and generating an application action identifier (action ID) and action code, the action ID corresponding to the action, and the action code causing the client device to transmit at least one of a first indication and a second indication when the action is respectively initiated and completed. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8, further comprising:
mapping the action ID to the action; storing the action ID and action code with the registration of the action; inserting the action code in the application using a registered protocol handler; and re-directing the user operating the client device to the application. 10. A system comprising:
at least one processor; a referral module, implemented by the at least one processor, configured to generate a link to perform an action in an application; an application usage module, implemented by the at least one processor, configured to detect a performance of the action in the application by a client device; a communication module, implemented by the at least one processor, configured to:
transmit the link to the client device;
receive an indication of the performance of the application action from the client device; and
transmit reward data associated with a user of the client device in response to the detected performance of the action in the application by the client device. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the link is associated with a referral offer to perform the action in the application, and further comprising a database interface module configured to store access by the client device to the referral offer. 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the application usage module is configured to detect the performance of the action by at least one of:
receiving a first indication from the application executing on the client device, the first indication corresponding to an initiation of the performance of the action in the application; and receiving a second indication from the application executing on the client device, the second indication corresponding to a completion of the performance of the action in the application. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the application usage module is further configured to determine an amount of time elapsed between the receiving of the first indication and the receiving of the second indication, wherein based on the amount of time elapsed exceeding a predetermined amount of time, the communication module is further configured to notify the client device of an expiration of an offer to perform the action. 14. The system of claim 10, further comprising a database interface module configured to store the detection of the performance of the action, the storing of the detection including storing a unique device identifier (Udid) of the client device and an application action identifier (action ID) corresponding to the action being performed. 15. The system of claim 10, wherein the reward data is one of a virtual currency amount and a virtual good. 16. The system of claim 10, wherein the referral module is further configured to:
receive a registration of the action to be performed; and generate an application action identifier (action ID) and action code, the action ID corresponding to the action, and the action code causing the client device to transmit at least one of a first indication and a second indication when the action is respectively initiated and completed. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the referral module is further configured to map the action ID to the application action, and further comprising:
a database interface module configured to store the action ID and action code with the registration of the action;
a deep linking module configured to:
insert the action code in the application using a registered protocol handler, the action code re-directing the user operating the client device to the application. 18. A non-transitory machine-readable medium storing a set of instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to perform operations comprising:
transmitting, to a client device, a link to perform an action in an application; responsive to receiving an indication of a selection of the link, detecting, by at least one processor, the performance of the action in the application by the client device; and associating reward data with a user of the client device in response to the detected performance of the action by the client device. 19. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the link is associated with a referral offer to perform the action in the application, and further comprising storing access by the client device to the referral offer. 20. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the detecting of the performance of the action in the application comprises at least one of:
receiving a first indication from the application executing on the client device, the first indication corresponding to an initiation of the performance of the action; and receiving a second indication from the application executing on the client device, the second indication corresponding to a completion of the performance of the action. 21. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 20, wherein the operations further comprise determining an amount of time elapsed between the receiving of the first indication and the receiving of the second indication, wherein based on the amount of time elapsed exceeding a predetermined amount of time, notifying the client device of an expiration of an offer to perform the action. 22. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the operations further comprise storing the detection of the performance of the action, the storing of the detection including storing a unique device identifier (Udid) of the client device and an application action identifier (action ID) corresponding to the action being performed. 23. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the reward data is one of a virtual currency amount and a virtual good. 24. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the operations further comprise:
receiving a registration of the action in the application to be performed; and generating an application action identifier (action ID) and action code, the action ID corresponding to the application action, and the action code causing the client device to transmit at least one of a first indication and a second indication when the action is initiated and completed. 25. The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 24, wherein the operations further comprise:
mapping the action ID to the action; storing the action ID and action code with the registration of the action; inserting the action code in the application using a registered protocol handler; and re-directing the user operating the client device to the application. | 3,600 |
13,318 | 13,318 | 14,795,566 | 3,628 | An approach is provided for providing geographic delivery location for aerial package delivery. The approach involves determining building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address. The approach also involves determining source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof. The approach further involves processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building. The approach also involves processing and/or facilitating a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address. | 1. A method comprising:
determining building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address; determining source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof; processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building; and processing and/or facilitating a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address. 2. A method of claim 1, wherein the source data include, at least in part, Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) information, building schematic information, probe data, sensor data, aerial imagery data, depth map information, imagery information, crowd-sourced information, or a combination thereof. 3. A method of claim 1, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces are for delivering one or more packages by an aerial-based package delivery. 4. A method of claim 3, further comprising:
processing and/or facilitating a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery edges for the one or more delivery surfaces, wherein the one or more delivery edges represents a preferred side of the one or more delivery surfaces for placing one or more delivery packages. 5. A method of claim 4, wherein the one or more delivery edges are determined if the one or more delivery surfaces is larger than at least one threshold size. 6. A method of claim 4, further comprising:
processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more approach paths to the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces, the one or more entrances, or a combination thereof are further determined based, at least in part, on the one or more approach paths. 7. A method of claim 5, further comprising:
processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more obstacles, one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof associated with the one or more approach paths, the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more obstacles are with respect to an aerial-based package delivery, and wherein the one or more restricted access surfaces are associated with one or more delivery surfaces and are impenetrable with respect to the aerial-based package delivery. 8. A method of claim 7, further comprising:
receiving at least one user input for initially specifying the one or more obstacles, the one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof. 9. A method of claim 7, further comprising:
causing, at least in part, a validation of the one or more obstacles, the one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof based, at least in part on other source data. 10. A method of claim 1, further comprising:
causing, at least in part, a ranking of the one or more delivery surfaces based, at least in part, on a proximity to the one or more entrances. 11. An apparatus comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code for one or more programs, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following:
determine building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address;
determine source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof;
process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building; and
process and/or facilitate a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address. 12. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein the source data include, at least in part, Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) information, building schematic information, probe data, sensor data, aerial imagery data, depth map information, imagery information, crowd-sourced information, or a combination thereof. 13. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces are for delivering one or more packages by an aerial-based package delivery. 14. An apparatus of claim 13, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
process and/or facilitate a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery edges for the one or more delivery surfaces, wherein the one or more delivery edges represents a preferred side of the one or more delivery surfaces for placing one or more delivery packages. 15. An apparatus of claim 14, wherein the one or more delivery edges are determined if the one or more delivery surfaces is larger than at least one threshold size. 16. An apparatus of claim 14, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more approach paths to the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces, the one or more entrances, or a combination thereof are further determined based, at least in part, on the one or more approach paths. 17. An apparatus of claim 15, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more obstacles, one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof associated with the one or more approach paths, the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more obstacles are with respect to an aerial-based package delivery, and wherein the one or more restricted access surfaces are associated with one or more delivery surfaces and are impenetrable with respect to the aerial-based package delivery. 18. A computer-readable storage medium carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause an apparatus to perform:
determine building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address; determine source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof; process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building; and process and/or facilitate a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address. 19. A computer-readable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the source data include, at least in part, Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) information, building schematic information, probe data, sensor data, aerial imagery data, depth map information, imagery information, crowd-sourced information, or a combination thereof. 20. A computer-readable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces are for delivering one or more packages by an aerial-based package delivery. 21.-48. (canceled) | An approach is provided for providing geographic delivery location for aerial package delivery. The approach involves determining building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address. The approach also involves determining source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof. The approach further involves processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building. The approach also involves processing and/or facilitating a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address.1. A method comprising:
determining building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address; determining source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof; processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building; and processing and/or facilitating a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address. 2. A method of claim 1, wherein the source data include, at least in part, Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) information, building schematic information, probe data, sensor data, aerial imagery data, depth map information, imagery information, crowd-sourced information, or a combination thereof. 3. A method of claim 1, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces are for delivering one or more packages by an aerial-based package delivery. 4. A method of claim 3, further comprising:
processing and/or facilitating a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery edges for the one or more delivery surfaces, wherein the one or more delivery edges represents a preferred side of the one or more delivery surfaces for placing one or more delivery packages. 5. A method of claim 4, wherein the one or more delivery edges are determined if the one or more delivery surfaces is larger than at least one threshold size. 6. A method of claim 4, further comprising:
processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more approach paths to the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces, the one or more entrances, or a combination thereof are further determined based, at least in part, on the one or more approach paths. 7. A method of claim 5, further comprising:
processing and/or facilitating a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more obstacles, one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof associated with the one or more approach paths, the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more obstacles are with respect to an aerial-based package delivery, and wherein the one or more restricted access surfaces are associated with one or more delivery surfaces and are impenetrable with respect to the aerial-based package delivery. 8. A method of claim 7, further comprising:
receiving at least one user input for initially specifying the one or more obstacles, the one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof. 9. A method of claim 7, further comprising:
causing, at least in part, a validation of the one or more obstacles, the one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof based, at least in part on other source data. 10. A method of claim 1, further comprising:
causing, at least in part, a ranking of the one or more delivery surfaces based, at least in part, on a proximity to the one or more entrances. 11. An apparatus comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code for one or more programs, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following:
determine building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address;
determine source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof;
process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building; and
process and/or facilitate a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address. 12. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein the source data include, at least in part, Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) information, building schematic information, probe data, sensor data, aerial imagery data, depth map information, imagery information, crowd-sourced information, or a combination thereof. 13. An apparatus of claim 11, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces are for delivering one or more packages by an aerial-based package delivery. 14. An apparatus of claim 13, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
process and/or facilitate a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery edges for the one or more delivery surfaces, wherein the one or more delivery edges represents a preferred side of the one or more delivery surfaces for placing one or more delivery packages. 15. An apparatus of claim 14, wherein the one or more delivery edges are determined if the one or more delivery surfaces is larger than at least one threshold size. 16. An apparatus of claim 14, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more approach paths to the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces, the one or more entrances, or a combination thereof are further determined based, at least in part, on the one or more approach paths. 17. An apparatus of claim 15, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:
process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information, the source data, or a combination thereof to determine one or more obstacles, one or more restricted access surfaces, or a combination thereof associated with the one or more approach paths, the one or more entrances, the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more obstacles are with respect to an aerial-based package delivery, and wherein the one or more restricted access surfaces are associated with one or more delivery surfaces and are impenetrable with respect to the aerial-based package delivery. 18. A computer-readable storage medium carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause an apparatus to perform:
determine building footprint information for at least one building associated with at least one geographic address; determine source data associated with the at least one building, the at least one geographic address, or a combination thereof; process and/or facilitate a processing of the building footprint information and the source data to determine one or more entrances associated with the at least one building; and process and/or facilitate a processing of the source data associated with the one or more entrances to determine one or more delivery surfaces for the at least one geographic address. 19. A computer-readable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the source data include, at least in part, Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) information, building schematic information, probe data, sensor data, aerial imagery data, depth map information, imagery information, crowd-sourced information, or a combination thereof. 20. A computer-readable storage medium of claim 18, wherein the one or more delivery surfaces are for delivering one or more packages by an aerial-based package delivery. 21.-48. (canceled) | 3,600 |
13,319 | 13,319 | 13,595,296 | 3,619 | The present disclosure provides a premature infant formula fortifier comprising a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein. Also provided is a composition for administration to premature infants, comprising i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein, and ii) a premature infant formula. Additionally, the present disclosure provides a method for promoting the growth of a premature infant, comprising administering to the infant a composition comprising i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein, and ii) a premature infant formula. | 1. A premature infant formula fortifier comprising:
a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein. 2. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein about 12 to about 25% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein. 3. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the protein component comprises a hydrolyzed protein or a partially hydrolyzed protein. 4. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the protein component comprises a hydrolyzed whey protein isolate. 5. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein about 25 to about 50% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from fat. 6. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the fat component comprises medium chain triglycerides. 7. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein about 30 to about 60% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from carbohydrates. 8. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising about 50 to about 200 international Units (IU) of vitamin D per 7.5 kcal of the fortifier. 9. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising a source of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA). 10. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the fortifier has a pH of 4.6 or less. 11. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising pectin. 12. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising vitamins and minerals. 13. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the premature infant fortifier is for use in a very low birth weight (VLBW) infant or an extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infant. 14. A composition for administration to premature infants comprising:
i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising: a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein; and ii) a premature infant formula. 15. The composition of claim 14, wherein the composition comprises about 3 to about 5.5 g of protein per 100 kcal of the composition. 16. The composition of claim 14, wherein the composition comprises about 22 to about 30 kcal per ounce. 17. The composition of claim 14, wherein the composition comprises about 300 to 1000 IU of vitamin D. 18. The composition of claim 14, wherein the volume ratio of premature infant formula fortifier to premature infant formula is in a range of about 1:2 to about 1:10. 19. The composition of claim 14, wherein the volume ratio of premature infant formula fortifier to premature infant formula is in a range of about 1:4 to about 1:5. 20. A method for promoting growth of a premature infant comprising administering to the infant a composition comprising:
i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising: a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein; and ii) a premature infant formula. | The present disclosure provides a premature infant formula fortifier comprising a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein. Also provided is a composition for administration to premature infants, comprising i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein, and ii) a premature infant formula. Additionally, the present disclosure provides a method for promoting the growth of a premature infant, comprising administering to the infant a composition comprising i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein, and ii) a premature infant formula.1. A premature infant formula fortifier comprising:
a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein. 2. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein about 12 to about 25% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein. 3. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the protein component comprises a hydrolyzed protein or a partially hydrolyzed protein. 4. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the protein component comprises a hydrolyzed whey protein isolate. 5. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein about 25 to about 50% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from fat. 6. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the fat component comprises medium chain triglycerides. 7. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein about 30 to about 60% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from carbohydrates. 8. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising about 50 to about 200 international Units (IU) of vitamin D per 7.5 kcal of the fortifier. 9. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising a source of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA). 10. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the fortifier has a pH of 4.6 or less. 11. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising pectin. 12. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, further comprising vitamins and minerals. 13. The premature infant formula fortifier of claim 1, wherein the premature infant fortifier is for use in a very low birth weight (VLBW) infant or an extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infant. 14. A composition for administration to premature infants comprising:
i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising: a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein; and ii) a premature infant formula. 15. The composition of claim 14, wherein the composition comprises about 3 to about 5.5 g of protein per 100 kcal of the composition. 16. The composition of claim 14, wherein the composition comprises about 22 to about 30 kcal per ounce. 17. The composition of claim 14, wherein the composition comprises about 300 to 1000 IU of vitamin D. 18. The composition of claim 14, wherein the volume ratio of premature infant formula fortifier to premature infant formula is in a range of about 1:2 to about 1:10. 19. The composition of claim 14, wherein the volume ratio of premature infant formula fortifier to premature infant formula is in a range of about 1:4 to about 1:5. 20. A method for promoting growth of a premature infant comprising administering to the infant a composition comprising:
i) a premature infant formula fortifier comprising: a protein component, a fat component, and a carbohydrate component, wherein about 10 to about 30% of the caloric content of the fortifier is from protein; and ii) a premature infant formula. | 3,600 |
13,320 | 13,320 | 14,520,095 | 3,628 | A transport request for a transport service for a user can be received from a user device. Based, at least in part, on information from the transport request, a computing system can determine that the transport request is subject to one or more rules stored in a rules database accessible by the computing system. In response to determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules, the computing system can determine whether the transport request is valid based, at least in part, on the one or more rules and information from the transport request. In response to determining that the transport request is valid, the transport request can be processed to select a driver to provide the transport service for the user. In addition, the cost for the transport service can be paid by an entity other than the user. | 1. A method of arranging a transport service, the method being performed by a computing system and comprising:
receiving, from a user device, a transport request for a transport service for a user operating the user device, the transport request including (i) an identifier (ID) associated with the user or the user device, (ii) a transport type information, (iii) a pickup location, and (iv) a payment profile ID; based, at least in part, on the payment profile ID, determining, at the computing system, that the transport request is subject to one or more rules stored in a rules database accessible by the computing system; in response to determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules, determining, at the computing system, whether the transport request is valid based, at least in part, on (i) the one or more rules, and (ii) at least one of the transport type information or the pickup location; and in response to determining that the transport request is valid, processing the transport request, wherein processing the transport request includes selecting a driver to provide the transport service for the user. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules includes (i) determining that the user is associated with a group of users, wherein information about the group is stored in a group database accessible by the computing system, and (ii) determining that the one or more rules are specified for the group. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules includes identifying the group from the group database using the payment profile ID, and wherein the group is associated with one or more payment profiles, including a payment profile corresponding to the payment profile ID. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the transport request also includes a destination location, and wherein the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to a carpool transport type;
wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that when transport requests are made for the carpool transport type, the computing system is to first attempt to select a second user to share at least a portion of the transport service with the user from the group of users before attempting to select from other users not in the group; and wherein processing the transport request includes selecting the second user from the group of users based on the pickup location and the destination location, and a second pickup location and a second destination location of the second user. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type when an estimated time of arrival (ETA) of the particular transport type for the transport service is equal to or less than a predetermined amount of time; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes (i) determining the ETA of the particular transport type that is based on the pickup location included in the transport request, and (ii) determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule, or determining whether the ETA of the particular transport type is greater than the predetermined amount of time specified by the rule. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to have a particular pickup location region; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes determining whether the pickup location included in the transport request is within the particular pickup location region specified by the rule. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to be made during a predetermined duration of time; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes determining whether the transport request has been received by the computing system at a time during the predetermined duration of time. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made a maximum number of times by the user during a predetermined duration of time; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes (i) accessing a user database to determine an account of the user based on the identifier, and (ii) determining, from the account, a number of previous transport services that were completed for the user during the predetermined duration of time specified by the rule. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, at the computing system, that the transport service has been completed for the user based on information received from a driver device of the selected driver; determining, at the computing device, a cost for the transport service based on location information and time information of the transport service; and based on the one or more rules, determining, at the computing device, what portion of the cost to charge to a financial account associated with the payment profile ID. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that costs for transport services can be paid using the account associated with the payment profile ID when transport services are completed at a particular destination location region. 12. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor of a computing system, causes the computing system to:
receiving, from a user device, a transport request for a transport service for a user operating the user device, the transport request including (i) an identifier (ID) associated with the user or the user device, (ii) a transport type information, (iii) a pickup location, and (iv) a payment profile ID; based, at least in part, on the payment profile ID, determining, at the computing system, that the transport request is subject to one or more rules stored in a rules database accessible by the computing system; in response to determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules, determining, at the computing system, whether the transport request is valid based, at least in part, on (i) the one or more rules, and (ii) at least one of the transport type information or the pickup location; if the transport request is determined to be invalid, transmitting, to the user device, a message indicating that the transport request is invalid; and if the transport request is determined to be valid, processing the transport request, wherein processing the transport request includes selecting a driver to provide the transport service for the user. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the instructions further cause the computing system to:
if the transport request is determined to be invalid, (i) determine at least one of textual data corresponding to a proper transport type or textual data corresponding to a proper pickup location as required by the one or more rules for the transport request to be valid, and (ii) include, in the message, the textual data corresponding to the proper transport type or the textual data corresponding to the proper pickup location. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine that the transport request is subject to one or more rules by (i) determining that the user is associated with a group of users by identifying the group from the group database using the payment profile ID, wherein the group is associated with one or more payment profiles, including a payment profile corresponding to the payment profile ID, and wherein information about the group is stored in a group database accessible by the computing system, and (ii) determining that the one or more rules are specified for the group. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the transport request also includes a destination location, and wherein the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to a carpool transport type;
wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that when transport requests are made for the carpool transport type, the computing system is to first attempt to select a second user to share at least a portion of the transport service with the user from the group of users before attempting to select from other users not in the group; and wherein processing the transport request includes selecting the second user from the group of users based on the pickup location and the destination location, and a second pickup location and a second destination location of the second user. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type when an estimated time of arrival (ETA) of the particular transport type for the transport service is equal to or less than a predetermined amount of time; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by (i) determining the ETA of the particular transport type that is based on the pickup location included in the transport request, and (ii) determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule, or determining whether the ETA of the particular transport type is greater than the predetermined amount of time specified by the rule. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to have a particular pickup location region; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by determining whether the pickup location included in the transport request is within the particular pickup location region specified by the rule. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to be made during a predetermined duration of time; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by determining whether the transport request has been received by the computing system at a time during the predetermined duration of time specified by the rule. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the instructions cause the computing system to further:
determine, at the computing system, that the transport service has been completed for the user based on information received from a driver device of the selected driver; determine, at the computing device, a cost for the transport service based on location information and time information of the transport service; and based on the one or more rules, determine, at the computing device, what portion of the cost to charge to a financial account associated with the payment profile ID. | A transport request for a transport service for a user can be received from a user device. Based, at least in part, on information from the transport request, a computing system can determine that the transport request is subject to one or more rules stored in a rules database accessible by the computing system. In response to determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules, the computing system can determine whether the transport request is valid based, at least in part, on the one or more rules and information from the transport request. In response to determining that the transport request is valid, the transport request can be processed to select a driver to provide the transport service for the user. In addition, the cost for the transport service can be paid by an entity other than the user.1. A method of arranging a transport service, the method being performed by a computing system and comprising:
receiving, from a user device, a transport request for a transport service for a user operating the user device, the transport request including (i) an identifier (ID) associated with the user or the user device, (ii) a transport type information, (iii) a pickup location, and (iv) a payment profile ID; based, at least in part, on the payment profile ID, determining, at the computing system, that the transport request is subject to one or more rules stored in a rules database accessible by the computing system; in response to determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules, determining, at the computing system, whether the transport request is valid based, at least in part, on (i) the one or more rules, and (ii) at least one of the transport type information or the pickup location; and in response to determining that the transport request is valid, processing the transport request, wherein processing the transport request includes selecting a driver to provide the transport service for the user. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules includes (i) determining that the user is associated with a group of users, wherein information about the group is stored in a group database accessible by the computing system, and (ii) determining that the one or more rules are specified for the group. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules includes identifying the group from the group database using the payment profile ID, and wherein the group is associated with one or more payment profiles, including a payment profile corresponding to the payment profile ID. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the transport request also includes a destination location, and wherein the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to a carpool transport type;
wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that when transport requests are made for the carpool transport type, the computing system is to first attempt to select a second user to share at least a portion of the transport service with the user from the group of users before attempting to select from other users not in the group; and wherein processing the transport request includes selecting the second user from the group of users based on the pickup location and the destination location, and a second pickup location and a second destination location of the second user. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type when an estimated time of arrival (ETA) of the particular transport type for the transport service is equal to or less than a predetermined amount of time; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes (i) determining the ETA of the particular transport type that is based on the pickup location included in the transport request, and (ii) determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule, or determining whether the ETA of the particular transport type is greater than the predetermined amount of time specified by the rule. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to have a particular pickup location region; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes determining whether the pickup location included in the transport request is within the particular pickup location region specified by the rule. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to be made during a predetermined duration of time; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes determining whether the transport request has been received by the computing system at a time during the predetermined duration of time. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made a maximum number of times by the user during a predetermined duration of time; and
wherein determining whether the transport request is valid includes (i) accessing a user database to determine an account of the user based on the identifier, and (ii) determining, from the account, a number of previous transport services that were completed for the user during the predetermined duration of time specified by the rule. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining, at the computing system, that the transport service has been completed for the user based on information received from a driver device of the selected driver; determining, at the computing device, a cost for the transport service based on location information and time information of the transport service; and based on the one or more rules, determining, at the computing device, what portion of the cost to charge to a financial account associated with the payment profile ID. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that costs for transport services can be paid using the account associated with the payment profile ID when transport services are completed at a particular destination location region. 12. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor of a computing system, causes the computing system to:
receiving, from a user device, a transport request for a transport service for a user operating the user device, the transport request including (i) an identifier (ID) associated with the user or the user device, (ii) a transport type information, (iii) a pickup location, and (iv) a payment profile ID; based, at least in part, on the payment profile ID, determining, at the computing system, that the transport request is subject to one or more rules stored in a rules database accessible by the computing system; in response to determining that the transport request is subject to one or more rules, determining, at the computing system, whether the transport request is valid based, at least in part, on (i) the one or more rules, and (ii) at least one of the transport type information or the pickup location; if the transport request is determined to be invalid, transmitting, to the user device, a message indicating that the transport request is invalid; and if the transport request is determined to be valid, processing the transport request, wherein processing the transport request includes selecting a driver to provide the transport service for the user. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the instructions further cause the computing system to:
if the transport request is determined to be invalid, (i) determine at least one of textual data corresponding to a proper transport type or textual data corresponding to a proper pickup location as required by the one or more rules for the transport request to be valid, and (ii) include, in the message, the textual data corresponding to the proper transport type or the textual data corresponding to the proper pickup location. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine that the transport request is subject to one or more rules by (i) determining that the user is associated with a group of users by identifying the group from the group database using the payment profile ID, wherein the group is associated with one or more payment profiles, including a payment profile corresponding to the payment profile ID, and wherein information about the group is stored in a group database accessible by the computing system, and (ii) determining that the one or more rules are specified for the group. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the transport request also includes a destination location, and wherein the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to a carpool transport type;
wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that when transport requests are made for the carpool transport type, the computing system is to first attempt to select a second user to share at least a portion of the transport service with the user from the group of users before attempting to select from other users not in the group; and wherein processing the transport request includes selecting the second user from the group of users based on the pickup location and the destination location, and a second pickup location and a second destination location of the second user. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are only to be made for a particular transport type when an estimated time of arrival (ETA) of the particular transport type for the transport service is equal to or less than a predetermined amount of time; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by (i) determining the ETA of the particular transport type that is based on the pickup location included in the transport request, and (ii) determining whether the transport type information included in the transport request corresponds to the particular transport type specified by the rule, or determining whether the ETA of the particular transport type is greater than the predetermined amount of time specified by the rule. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to have a particular pickup location region; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by determining whether the pickup location included in the transport request is within the particular pickup location region specified by the rule. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein a rule of the one or more rules specifies that transport requests are to be made during a predetermined duration of time; and
wherein the instructions cause the computing system to determine whether the transport request is valid by determining whether the transport request has been received by the computing system at a time during the predetermined duration of time specified by the rule. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 12, wherein the instructions cause the computing system to further:
determine, at the computing system, that the transport service has been completed for the user based on information received from a driver device of the selected driver; determine, at the computing device, a cost for the transport service based on location information and time information of the transport service; and based on the one or more rules, determine, at the computing device, what portion of the cost to charge to a financial account associated with the payment profile ID. | 3,600 |
13,321 | 13,321 | 13,907,028 | 3,626 | Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method of using an emergency medicament device. The method includes reading an ID tag from the medicament device using a mobile device; automatically requesting instructions for using the medicament device based on the ID tag; and displaying a video to a user of the mobile device, the video providing instructions for using the medicament device in accordance with approved labeling of the medicament device. Various exemplary embodiments relate to an electronic medicament device including: a reservoir configured to store an amount of medication for treating anaphylaxis; an administration component for administering the medication to a patient; a processor communicatively connected to a memory storing medicament device information; and an identification tag configured to be read by another device, the identification tag providing the medicament device information including identification of instructions for using the medicament device. | 1. A method of using an emergency medicament device, the method comprising:
reading an ID tag associated with the medicament device using a mobile device; automatically requesting instructions for using the medicament device based on the ID tag; and displaying a video to a user of the mobile device, the video providing instructions for using the medicament device in accordance with approved labeling of the medicament device. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the ID tag is a quick response (QR) code. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
reading product information including an expiration date from the medicament device; transmitting the product information to an application server; and receiving a notification from the application server regarding the expiration date of the medicament device. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of reading an expiration date comprises:
photographing a printed expiration date on the medicament device; and recognizing characters in the printed expiration date. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the product information further includes a lot number, the method further comprising receiving a notification regarding a recall of the medicament device based on the lot number. 6. The method of claim 3, further comprising:
sending registration information to an application server, the registration information including a request to track location information; receiving medicament device information for a registered medicament device including location information; and displaying a map including registered medicament device information. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the video is streamed from a remote application server. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving an indication that the medicament device has been used; and providing location information to emergency services. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
colorimetrically analyzing a medicament contained within the medicament device; determining whether the medicament has become degraded; and displaying an indication to a user that the medicament has become degraded. 10. The method of claim 1 further comprising wirelessly transmitting a signal to the medicament device, wherein the medicament device is configured to produce an audible alarm in response to the signal. 11. An electronic medicament device comprising:
a reservoir configured to store an amount of medication for treating anaphylaxis; an administration component for administering the medication to a patient; a processor communicatively connected to a memory storing medicament device information; and an identification tag configured to be read by another device, the identification tag providing the medicament device information including identification of instructions for using the medicament device. 12. The electronic medicament device of claim 11 further comprising a display device, wherein the processor is configured to display an alert via the display device when an expiration date associated with the amount of medication has been passed. 13. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a speaker, wherein the processor is configured to play audio instructions for administering the medication. 14. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, wherein the processor is configured to control the amount of medication administered by the administration component. 15. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, wherein the administration component is an auto-injector. 16. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a communication interface, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with at least one remote system via the communication interface in response to the occurrence of an event, the event comprising at least one of: administration of the medication and expiration of the medication. 17. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a temperature sensor configured to determine the current temperature of the medication, wherein the processor is configured to provide an indication that the current temperature is outside of an approved temperature range. 18. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a short-range wireless communication interface, wherein the processor is configured to periodically attempt to connect to an external device via the short-range wireless communication interface and trigger an alarm responsive to the attempt to connect failing. 19. An application server in communication with a mobile device, the application server comprising a processor and a memory, the application server configured to:
receive a medicament device identifier scanned from an emergency medicament device containing epinephrine for the treatment of anaphylaxis using an application on the mobile device; and stream an instructional video to the mobile device, the instructional video providing instructions for using the medicament device in accordance with approved labeling of the medicament device. 20. The application server of claim 19, further configured to:
receive registration information from the mobile device including an expiration date and lot number scanned from the medicament device and contact information; store the registration information in association with the contact information; determine an event associated with the registration information; and send a notification to the mobile device based on the event and the contact information. 21. The application server of claim 20, wherein the event is one of an expiration of the medicament device and a recall of the medicament device. 22. The application server of claim 20, wherein the application server is further configured to:
periodically receive location information of the medicament device from the mobile device; update a database with the location information for the medicament device; receive a request for location information from a second device; determine whether the second device is allowed to access the location information for the medicament device based on the registration information; and provide medicament device information including the location information to the second device responsive to the second device being allowed to access the location information. 23. The application server of claim 20, wherein the registration information further comprises a unique product serialization number and the application server is further configured to receive a second product serialization number of a destroyed medicament device and correlate the product serialization number with the registered product serialization number. | Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method of using an emergency medicament device. The method includes reading an ID tag from the medicament device using a mobile device; automatically requesting instructions for using the medicament device based on the ID tag; and displaying a video to a user of the mobile device, the video providing instructions for using the medicament device in accordance with approved labeling of the medicament device. Various exemplary embodiments relate to an electronic medicament device including: a reservoir configured to store an amount of medication for treating anaphylaxis; an administration component for administering the medication to a patient; a processor communicatively connected to a memory storing medicament device information; and an identification tag configured to be read by another device, the identification tag providing the medicament device information including identification of instructions for using the medicament device.1. A method of using an emergency medicament device, the method comprising:
reading an ID tag associated with the medicament device using a mobile device; automatically requesting instructions for using the medicament device based on the ID tag; and displaying a video to a user of the mobile device, the video providing instructions for using the medicament device in accordance with approved labeling of the medicament device. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the ID tag is a quick response (QR) code. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
reading product information including an expiration date from the medicament device; transmitting the product information to an application server; and receiving a notification from the application server regarding the expiration date of the medicament device. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of reading an expiration date comprises:
photographing a printed expiration date on the medicament device; and recognizing characters in the printed expiration date. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the product information further includes a lot number, the method further comprising receiving a notification regarding a recall of the medicament device based on the lot number. 6. The method of claim 3, further comprising:
sending registration information to an application server, the registration information including a request to track location information; receiving medicament device information for a registered medicament device including location information; and displaying a map including registered medicament device information. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the video is streamed from a remote application server. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving an indication that the medicament device has been used; and providing location information to emergency services. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
colorimetrically analyzing a medicament contained within the medicament device; determining whether the medicament has become degraded; and displaying an indication to a user that the medicament has become degraded. 10. The method of claim 1 further comprising wirelessly transmitting a signal to the medicament device, wherein the medicament device is configured to produce an audible alarm in response to the signal. 11. An electronic medicament device comprising:
a reservoir configured to store an amount of medication for treating anaphylaxis; an administration component for administering the medication to a patient; a processor communicatively connected to a memory storing medicament device information; and an identification tag configured to be read by another device, the identification tag providing the medicament device information including identification of instructions for using the medicament device. 12. The electronic medicament device of claim 11 further comprising a display device, wherein the processor is configured to display an alert via the display device when an expiration date associated with the amount of medication has been passed. 13. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a speaker, wherein the processor is configured to play audio instructions for administering the medication. 14. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, wherein the processor is configured to control the amount of medication administered by the administration component. 15. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, wherein the administration component is an auto-injector. 16. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a communication interface, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with at least one remote system via the communication interface in response to the occurrence of an event, the event comprising at least one of: administration of the medication and expiration of the medication. 17. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a temperature sensor configured to determine the current temperature of the medication, wherein the processor is configured to provide an indication that the current temperature is outside of an approved temperature range. 18. The electronic medicament device of claim 11, further comprising a short-range wireless communication interface, wherein the processor is configured to periodically attempt to connect to an external device via the short-range wireless communication interface and trigger an alarm responsive to the attempt to connect failing. 19. An application server in communication with a mobile device, the application server comprising a processor and a memory, the application server configured to:
receive a medicament device identifier scanned from an emergency medicament device containing epinephrine for the treatment of anaphylaxis using an application on the mobile device; and stream an instructional video to the mobile device, the instructional video providing instructions for using the medicament device in accordance with approved labeling of the medicament device. 20. The application server of claim 19, further configured to:
receive registration information from the mobile device including an expiration date and lot number scanned from the medicament device and contact information; store the registration information in association with the contact information; determine an event associated with the registration information; and send a notification to the mobile device based on the event and the contact information. 21. The application server of claim 20, wherein the event is one of an expiration of the medicament device and a recall of the medicament device. 22. The application server of claim 20, wherein the application server is further configured to:
periodically receive location information of the medicament device from the mobile device; update a database with the location information for the medicament device; receive a request for location information from a second device; determine whether the second device is allowed to access the location information for the medicament device based on the registration information; and provide medicament device information including the location information to the second device responsive to the second device being allowed to access the location information. 23. The application server of claim 20, wherein the registration information further comprises a unique product serialization number and the application server is further configured to receive a second product serialization number of a destroyed medicament device and correlate the product serialization number with the registered product serialization number. | 3,600 |
13,322 | 13,322 | 13,792,110 | 3,687 | An accounting system is configured to record single entry transactions (e.g., cash receipts, cash disbursements, accounts payable, payroll payable, legal commitments) and to generate, in response to a selection by a user made after the transactions have been recorded, a selected one of a cash basis report and a budgetary basis report. Other systems and methods are provided. | 1. An accounting system configured to record single entry transactions including transactions for cash receipts, cash disbursements, accounts payable, payroll payable, and legal commitments and to generate, in response to a selection by a user made after the transactions have been recorded, a selected one of a cash basis statement, and a budgetary basis statement. 2. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 wherein the transactions include transactions for a business entity and for a subsidiary of the business entity, and configured, in response to a selection by a user, to generate statements for a selected one of the business entity and the subsidiary of the business entity, after the transactions have been recorded. 3. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 wherein the transactions include cash basis transactions and configured to generate a cash basis trial balance from the cash basis transactions, to receive adjusting entries from a user, and to generate accrual basis statements using the cash basis trial balance and the adjusting entries and to generate tax basis statements using a cash basis trial balance and adjusting entries, and to generate budgetary basis statements using a cash basis trial balance and adjusting entries. 4. An accounting system in accordance with claim 3 and configured to generate a cash basis trial balance from transactions, to tag cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis financial statements, and, in response to a request, to generate a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis statements, and to tag cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis financial statements, and in response to a request, to generate a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis statements, and to tag cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements, and, in response to a request, to generate a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements. 5. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 and configured to track legal commitments including purchase orders, employee contracts, vendor contracts, long-term service contracts of more than one year, long-term rental agreements of more than one year, and lease agreements. 6. An accounting system in accordance with claim 5 and configured to monitor uncommitted cash using a budgetary basis of accounting. 7. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 and having a central sub-system, a banking sub-system in communication with the central sub-system and configured to receive data from bank statements, and wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive bank statement data from the banking sub-system. 8. An accounting system in accordance with claim 7 and further comprising a billing and accounts receivable sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, configured to receive payment data and wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive payment data from the billing and accounts receivable sub-system. 9. An accounting system in accordance with claim 7 and further comprising a payroll sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, configured to receive payroll cost data and wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive payroll cost data from the payroll sub-system. 10. An accounting system in accordance with claim 9 wherein the payroll sub-system is configured to generate payroll reporting data. 11. An accounting system in accordance with claim 9 wherein the payroll sub-system includes a payroll clearing sub-system configured to process disbursements related to payroll. 12. An accounting method comprising:
recording transactions; generating a cash basis trial balance from the transactions; tagging cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis financial statements; tagging cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis financial statements; tagging cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements; tracking legal commitments including at least three of purchase orders, employee contracts, vendor contracts, long-term service contracts, long-term rental agreements, and lease agreements; in response to a request, generating a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis financial statements; in response to a request, generating a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis financial statements; in response to a request, generating a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements; importing a cash basis trial balance; receiving, from a user, adjusting entries for accrual basis financial statements; receiving, from a user, adjusting entries for tax basis financial statements; receiving, from a user, adjusting entries for budgetary basis financial statements; in response to a selection by a user after the transactions have been recorded, generating any selected one of a cash basis, budgetary basis, accrual tax basis, cash tax basis, and accrual basis financial statements for any of a year and an interim period of less than a year. 13. A method in accordance with claim 12 wherein the transactions include single entry transactions for a business entity and for a subsidiary of the business entity, the method further comprising receiving a selection by a user and generating one of cash basis and budgetary basis statements for one of the business entity and the subsidiary of the business entity in response to the selection, after the single entry transactions have been recorded. 14. A method in accordance with claim 13 and further comprising generating a cash basis trial balance from the cash basis transactions, and generating accrual basis statements, tax basis statements, and budgetary basis statements based, at least in part, on the cash basis trial balance. 15. A non-transient computer readable medium bearing computer program code which, when executed by a computer causes the computer to perform the method of claim 12. 16. An accounting system comprising:
a central sub-system; a banking sub-system in communication with the central sub-system and configured to receive data from bank statements, the central sub-system being configured to receive bank statement data from the banking sub-system; a billing and accounts receivable sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, and configured to receive data about incoming payments, and the central sub-system being configured to receive payment data from the billing and accounts receivable sub-system; and a payroll sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, and configured to receive payroll cost data, the central sub-system being configured to receive payroll cost data from the payroll sub-system, the payroll sub-system being configured to generate payroll reporting data and to process payroll payable; the central sub-system being configured to track legal commitments including purchase orders, employee contracts, vendor contracts, long-term service contracts of more than one year, long-term rental agreements of more than one year, and lease agreements; and being configured to generate, in response to a selection by a user made after the payroll payable transactions have been processed, a selected one of a cash basis report, and a budgetary basis report. 17. An accounting system in accordance with claim 16 wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive data for single entry transactions for a business entity and for a subsidiary of the business entity, the single entry transactions including transactions for cash receipts, cash disbursements, accounts payable, payroll payable, and legal commitments, and to store the data for the transactions in the data warehouse, wherein the system is configured, in response to a selection by a user, to switch between generating cash basis and budgetary basis statements for a selected one of a business entity and the subsidiary of the business entity, and wherein the system is configured to generate a cash basis trial balance from the data for the single entry transactions, to receive adjusting entries from a user, and to generate accrual basis statements, tax basis statements, and budgetary basis statements using the cash basis trial balance and the adjusting entries. 18. An accounting system in accordance with claim 16 and including a chart of accounts including account codes and account descriptions to define classes of items for which money is spent and for which money is received, the chart of accounts having a hierarchy including at least an accounting entity level, business segment group level, and business segment level. 19. An accounting system in accordance with claim 18 wherein the chart of accounts has different sets of account codes for different types of financial statements, the sets including at least a basic account code set for cash basis and budgetary basis reporting, an accrual basis account code set, an accrual tax basis account code set, a cash tax basis account code set, a budgetary basis account code set, and a category account code set. 20. An accounting system in accordance with claim 19 wherein the chart of accounts provides account code mapping between the basic account code set, which provides a first level of detail, and an account code set which provides a second level of detail higher than the first level, the account code set having the second level of detail being selected from the group consisting of the accrual basis account code set, the accrual tax basis account code set, the cash tax basis account code set, the budgetary basis account code set, and the category account code set. | An accounting system is configured to record single entry transactions (e.g., cash receipts, cash disbursements, accounts payable, payroll payable, legal commitments) and to generate, in response to a selection by a user made after the transactions have been recorded, a selected one of a cash basis report and a budgetary basis report. Other systems and methods are provided.1. An accounting system configured to record single entry transactions including transactions for cash receipts, cash disbursements, accounts payable, payroll payable, and legal commitments and to generate, in response to a selection by a user made after the transactions have been recorded, a selected one of a cash basis statement, and a budgetary basis statement. 2. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 wherein the transactions include transactions for a business entity and for a subsidiary of the business entity, and configured, in response to a selection by a user, to generate statements for a selected one of the business entity and the subsidiary of the business entity, after the transactions have been recorded. 3. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 wherein the transactions include cash basis transactions and configured to generate a cash basis trial balance from the cash basis transactions, to receive adjusting entries from a user, and to generate accrual basis statements using the cash basis trial balance and the adjusting entries and to generate tax basis statements using a cash basis trial balance and adjusting entries, and to generate budgetary basis statements using a cash basis trial balance and adjusting entries. 4. An accounting system in accordance with claim 3 and configured to generate a cash basis trial balance from transactions, to tag cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis financial statements, and, in response to a request, to generate a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis statements, and to tag cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis financial statements, and in response to a request, to generate a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis statements, and to tag cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements, and, in response to a request, to generate a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements. 5. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 and configured to track legal commitments including purchase orders, employee contracts, vendor contracts, long-term service contracts of more than one year, long-term rental agreements of more than one year, and lease agreements. 6. An accounting system in accordance with claim 5 and configured to monitor uncommitted cash using a budgetary basis of accounting. 7. An accounting system in accordance with claim 1 and having a central sub-system, a banking sub-system in communication with the central sub-system and configured to receive data from bank statements, and wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive bank statement data from the banking sub-system. 8. An accounting system in accordance with claim 7 and further comprising a billing and accounts receivable sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, configured to receive payment data and wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive payment data from the billing and accounts receivable sub-system. 9. An accounting system in accordance with claim 7 and further comprising a payroll sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, configured to receive payroll cost data and wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive payroll cost data from the payroll sub-system. 10. An accounting system in accordance with claim 9 wherein the payroll sub-system is configured to generate payroll reporting data. 11. An accounting system in accordance with claim 9 wherein the payroll sub-system includes a payroll clearing sub-system configured to process disbursements related to payroll. 12. An accounting method comprising:
recording transactions; generating a cash basis trial balance from the transactions; tagging cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis financial statements; tagging cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis financial statements; tagging cash transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements; tracking legal commitments including at least three of purchase orders, employee contracts, vendor contracts, long-term service contracts, long-term rental agreements, and lease agreements; in response to a request, generating a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for accrual basis financial statements; in response to a request, generating a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for tax basis financial statements; in response to a request, generating a report identifying tagged transactions that may require an adjusting entry for budgetary basis financial statements; importing a cash basis trial balance; receiving, from a user, adjusting entries for accrual basis financial statements; receiving, from a user, adjusting entries for tax basis financial statements; receiving, from a user, adjusting entries for budgetary basis financial statements; in response to a selection by a user after the transactions have been recorded, generating any selected one of a cash basis, budgetary basis, accrual tax basis, cash tax basis, and accrual basis financial statements for any of a year and an interim period of less than a year. 13. A method in accordance with claim 12 wherein the transactions include single entry transactions for a business entity and for a subsidiary of the business entity, the method further comprising receiving a selection by a user and generating one of cash basis and budgetary basis statements for one of the business entity and the subsidiary of the business entity in response to the selection, after the single entry transactions have been recorded. 14. A method in accordance with claim 13 and further comprising generating a cash basis trial balance from the cash basis transactions, and generating accrual basis statements, tax basis statements, and budgetary basis statements based, at least in part, on the cash basis trial balance. 15. A non-transient computer readable medium bearing computer program code which, when executed by a computer causes the computer to perform the method of claim 12. 16. An accounting system comprising:
a central sub-system; a banking sub-system in communication with the central sub-system and configured to receive data from bank statements, the central sub-system being configured to receive bank statement data from the banking sub-system; a billing and accounts receivable sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, and configured to receive data about incoming payments, and the central sub-system being configured to receive payment data from the billing and accounts receivable sub-system; and a payroll sub-system, in communication with the central sub-system, and configured to receive payroll cost data, the central sub-system being configured to receive payroll cost data from the payroll sub-system, the payroll sub-system being configured to generate payroll reporting data and to process payroll payable; the central sub-system being configured to track legal commitments including purchase orders, employee contracts, vendor contracts, long-term service contracts of more than one year, long-term rental agreements of more than one year, and lease agreements; and being configured to generate, in response to a selection by a user made after the payroll payable transactions have been processed, a selected one of a cash basis report, and a budgetary basis report. 17. An accounting system in accordance with claim 16 wherein the central sub-system is configured to receive data for single entry transactions for a business entity and for a subsidiary of the business entity, the single entry transactions including transactions for cash receipts, cash disbursements, accounts payable, payroll payable, and legal commitments, and to store the data for the transactions in the data warehouse, wherein the system is configured, in response to a selection by a user, to switch between generating cash basis and budgetary basis statements for a selected one of a business entity and the subsidiary of the business entity, and wherein the system is configured to generate a cash basis trial balance from the data for the single entry transactions, to receive adjusting entries from a user, and to generate accrual basis statements, tax basis statements, and budgetary basis statements using the cash basis trial balance and the adjusting entries. 18. An accounting system in accordance with claim 16 and including a chart of accounts including account codes and account descriptions to define classes of items for which money is spent and for which money is received, the chart of accounts having a hierarchy including at least an accounting entity level, business segment group level, and business segment level. 19. An accounting system in accordance with claim 18 wherein the chart of accounts has different sets of account codes for different types of financial statements, the sets including at least a basic account code set for cash basis and budgetary basis reporting, an accrual basis account code set, an accrual tax basis account code set, a cash tax basis account code set, a budgetary basis account code set, and a category account code set. 20. An accounting system in accordance with claim 19 wherein the chart of accounts provides account code mapping between the basic account code set, which provides a first level of detail, and an account code set which provides a second level of detail higher than the first level, the account code set having the second level of detail being selected from the group consisting of the accrual basis account code set, the accrual tax basis account code set, the cash tax basis account code set, the budgetary basis account code set, and the category account code set. | 3,600 |
13,323 | 13,323 | 14,611,830 | 3,694 | A social analysis tool facilitates improved communications between marketers and consumers. User information for consumers is collected from social posts exchanged between consumers and moderators acting on behalf of marketers. The user information is stored in social profiles for the consumers and is available to the marketers for subsequent social conversations with the consumers. In some instances, consumers are effectively targeted for automated social replies that market a newer version of a product. Social posts relevant to the product are analyzed to identify ones in which the user sentiment indicates the user is satisfied with the product. Automated social replies are automatically generated and sent in response to each of those social posts. | 1. One or more computer storage media storing computer-useable instructions that, when used by one or more computing devices, cause the one or more computing devices to perform operations comprising:
accessing social posts from a moderated social conversation between a moderator and user on a computerized social networking service; analyzing text of the social posts to identify user information provided by the user; extracting the user information and mapping the extracted user information to a data field of a social profile; and storing the extracted user information in the data field of the social profile on a computer storage device. 2. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein analyzing text of the social posts to identify the user information comprises:
parsing the text of the social posts; analyzing the parsed text based on a set of known patterns; and identifying one or more words matching a known pattern from the set of known patterns as the user information. 3. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein analyzing text of the social posts to identify the user information comprises:
parsing the text of the social posts; analyzing the parsed text based on a set of keywords; and identifying one or more words matching a keyword from the set of keywords as the user information. 4. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein the user information is mapped to the data field of the social profile by:
identifying the user information as corresponding with a particular type of user information; and identifying the data field as corresponding with the particular type of user information. 5. The one or more computer storage media of claim 4, wherein the user information is determined as corresponding with the particular type of user information based on a known pattern or keyword used to identify the user information, the known pattern or keyword being associated with the particular type of user information. 6. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise:
presenting the user information and the data field to the moderator via a user interface; and receiving one or more modifications to the user information or the data field via the user interface. 7. A computerized method for automating generating and providing an automated social reply in response to a social post from a user posted on a computerized social networking service, the computerized method comprising:
receiving, via a first computing process, the social post over a communication network based on the social post being relevant to a product; employing, via a second computing process, a sentiment analysis engine to determine a user sentiment associated with the product in the social post; comparing, via a third computing process, the user sentiment to a sentiment threshold; determining, via a fourth computing process, that the user sentiment satisfies the sentiment threshold; generating, via a fifth computing process, the automated social reply promoting a newer version of the product based on determining that the user sentiment satisfies the sentiment threshold; and providing, via a sixth computing process, the automated social reply to the user by communicating the automated social reply over a communication network to the computerized social networking service; wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth computing processes are performed by one or more computing devices. 8. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the social post is relevant to the product based the text of the social post containing a name of a previous version of the product. 9. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the social post is relevant to the product based on the social post being posted on a webpage of the social networking service dedicated to the product. 10. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein a marketer specified a date range and the social post is received based on the social post being posted within the date range. 11. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the user sentiment comprises a sentiment score and the sentiment threshold is a threshold score, and wherein the user sentiment satisfies the sentiment threshold based on the sentiment score being above the threshold score. 12. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; determining that the text of the social post does not contain any feature terms matching any of the plurality of feature names; and providing a generic message regarding the newer version of the product for the automated social reply. 13. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; determining that the text of the social post contains only one feature term matching a first feature name corresponding with a first new or improved feature of the newer version of the product; and generating the automated social reply by including content that emphasizes the first new or improved feature of the newer version of the product. 14. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; identifying each of a plurality of feature terms in the text of the social post as matching a different feature name from the plurality of feature names; determining a frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post; and generating the automated social reply based on the frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post. 15. The computerized method of claim 14, wherein generating the automated social reply based on the frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post comprises:
determining a score for each new or improved feature of a subset of the new or improved features corresponding with the feature terms appearing in the text of the social post based on the frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post; and generating the automated social reply to emphasize each new or improved feature of the subset based on the score for each new or improved feature of the subset. 16. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; identifying each of a plurality of feature terms in the text of the social post as matching a different feature name from the plurality of feature names; determining a user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms; and generating the automated social reply based on the user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms. 17. The computerized method of claim 16, wherein generating the automated social reply based on the user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms comprises:
determining a score for each new or improved feature of a subset of the new or improved features corresponding with the feature terms appearing in the text of the social post based on the user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms; and generating the automated social reply to emphasize each new or improved feature of the subset based on the score for each new or improved feature of the subset. 18. A computerized system comprising:
one or more processors; and one or more computer storage media storing computer-useable instructions that, when used by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: access, over a communication network, a social post posted by a user on a computerized social networking service, the social post being accessed based on the social post having relevance to a product; analyze text of the social post to determine a user sentiment associated with the product; determine that the user sentiment is above a sentiment threshold; in response to determining the user sentiment is above the sentiment threshold:
analyze the text of the social post to identify a plurality of feature terms that each match a different feature name from a plurality of new or improved features of a newer version of the product;
determine a frequency with which each feature term appears in the social post;
determine a user sentiment associated with each feature term;
generate a social reply emphasizing selected new or improved features of the newer version of the product based on the frequency with which each feature term appears in the social post and the user sentiment associated with each feature term; and
provide the social reply for presentation to the user by communicating the social reply over a communication network to the computerized social networking service. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the social post is determined to be relevant to the product based on the text of the social post including the name of an older version of the product or the newer version of the product. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the social reply is generated to emphasize the selected new or improved features of the newer version of the product by:
determining a score for each of the selected new or improved features based on the frequency with which each feature term appears in the social post and the user sentiment associated with each feature term; and emphasizing the selected new or improved features based on the scores. | A social analysis tool facilitates improved communications between marketers and consumers. User information for consumers is collected from social posts exchanged between consumers and moderators acting on behalf of marketers. The user information is stored in social profiles for the consumers and is available to the marketers for subsequent social conversations with the consumers. In some instances, consumers are effectively targeted for automated social replies that market a newer version of a product. Social posts relevant to the product are analyzed to identify ones in which the user sentiment indicates the user is satisfied with the product. Automated social replies are automatically generated and sent in response to each of those social posts.1. One or more computer storage media storing computer-useable instructions that, when used by one or more computing devices, cause the one or more computing devices to perform operations comprising:
accessing social posts from a moderated social conversation between a moderator and user on a computerized social networking service; analyzing text of the social posts to identify user information provided by the user; extracting the user information and mapping the extracted user information to a data field of a social profile; and storing the extracted user information in the data field of the social profile on a computer storage device. 2. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein analyzing text of the social posts to identify the user information comprises:
parsing the text of the social posts; analyzing the parsed text based on a set of known patterns; and identifying one or more words matching a known pattern from the set of known patterns as the user information. 3. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein analyzing text of the social posts to identify the user information comprises:
parsing the text of the social posts; analyzing the parsed text based on a set of keywords; and identifying one or more words matching a keyword from the set of keywords as the user information. 4. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein the user information is mapped to the data field of the social profile by:
identifying the user information as corresponding with a particular type of user information; and identifying the data field as corresponding with the particular type of user information. 5. The one or more computer storage media of claim 4, wherein the user information is determined as corresponding with the particular type of user information based on a known pattern or keyword used to identify the user information, the known pattern or keyword being associated with the particular type of user information. 6. The one or more computer storage media of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise:
presenting the user information and the data field to the moderator via a user interface; and receiving one or more modifications to the user information or the data field via the user interface. 7. A computerized method for automating generating and providing an automated social reply in response to a social post from a user posted on a computerized social networking service, the computerized method comprising:
receiving, via a first computing process, the social post over a communication network based on the social post being relevant to a product; employing, via a second computing process, a sentiment analysis engine to determine a user sentiment associated with the product in the social post; comparing, via a third computing process, the user sentiment to a sentiment threshold; determining, via a fourth computing process, that the user sentiment satisfies the sentiment threshold; generating, via a fifth computing process, the automated social reply promoting a newer version of the product based on determining that the user sentiment satisfies the sentiment threshold; and providing, via a sixth computing process, the automated social reply to the user by communicating the automated social reply over a communication network to the computerized social networking service; wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth computing processes are performed by one or more computing devices. 8. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the social post is relevant to the product based the text of the social post containing a name of a previous version of the product. 9. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the social post is relevant to the product based on the social post being posted on a webpage of the social networking service dedicated to the product. 10. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein a marketer specified a date range and the social post is received based on the social post being posted within the date range. 11. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the user sentiment comprises a sentiment score and the sentiment threshold is a threshold score, and wherein the user sentiment satisfies the sentiment threshold based on the sentiment score being above the threshold score. 12. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; determining that the text of the social post does not contain any feature terms matching any of the plurality of feature names; and providing a generic message regarding the newer version of the product for the automated social reply. 13. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; determining that the text of the social post contains only one feature term matching a first feature name corresponding with a first new or improved feature of the newer version of the product; and generating the automated social reply by including content that emphasizes the first new or improved feature of the newer version of the product. 14. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; identifying each of a plurality of feature terms in the text of the social post as matching a different feature name from the plurality of feature names; determining a frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post; and generating the automated social reply based on the frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post. 15. The computerized method of claim 14, wherein generating the automated social reply based on the frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post comprises:
determining a score for each new or improved feature of a subset of the new or improved features corresponding with the feature terms appearing in the text of the social post based on the frequency with which each of the plurality of feature terms appears in the text of the social post; and generating the automated social reply to emphasize each new or improved feature of the subset based on the score for each new or improved feature of the subset. 16. The computerized method of claim 7, wherein the automated social reply is generated by:
analyzing text of the social post to determine if the text includes any feature terms matching any of a plurality of feature names of new or improved features of the newer version of the product; identifying each of a plurality of feature terms in the text of the social post as matching a different feature name from the plurality of feature names; determining a user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms; and generating the automated social reply based on the user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms. 17. The computerized method of claim 16, wherein generating the automated social reply based on the user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms comprises:
determining a score for each new or improved feature of a subset of the new or improved features corresponding with the feature terms appearing in the text of the social post based on the user sentiment associated with each of the plurality of feature terms; and generating the automated social reply to emphasize each new or improved feature of the subset based on the score for each new or improved feature of the subset. 18. A computerized system comprising:
one or more processors; and one or more computer storage media storing computer-useable instructions that, when used by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: access, over a communication network, a social post posted by a user on a computerized social networking service, the social post being accessed based on the social post having relevance to a product; analyze text of the social post to determine a user sentiment associated with the product; determine that the user sentiment is above a sentiment threshold; in response to determining the user sentiment is above the sentiment threshold:
analyze the text of the social post to identify a plurality of feature terms that each match a different feature name from a plurality of new or improved features of a newer version of the product;
determine a frequency with which each feature term appears in the social post;
determine a user sentiment associated with each feature term;
generate a social reply emphasizing selected new or improved features of the newer version of the product based on the frequency with which each feature term appears in the social post and the user sentiment associated with each feature term; and
provide the social reply for presentation to the user by communicating the social reply over a communication network to the computerized social networking service. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the social post is determined to be relevant to the product based on the text of the social post including the name of an older version of the product or the newer version of the product. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the social reply is generated to emphasize the selected new or improved features of the newer version of the product by:
determining a score for each of the selected new or improved features based on the frequency with which each feature term appears in the social post and the user sentiment associated with each feature term; and emphasizing the selected new or improved features based on the scores. | 3,600 |
13,324 | 13,324 | 14,754,755 | 3,649 | The disclosure pertains to method for manufacturing reclosable packages, bags or pouches wherein, typically, a unisex zipper is looped so as to form a gap between the ends of the zipper and sealed inside of the package. The formation of the looped zipper segment causes the package to have a wide open mouth, and a natural tendency toward the open configuration. | 1. A method for manufacturing reclosable packages, including the steps of:
providing a web moving in a machine direction; attaching a reclosure across the web in a transverse direction, wherein the reclosure includes an interlocking element and further includes first and second ends which are inwardly offset from respective first and second edges of the web, thereby providing respective first and second spaces of the web inwardly adjacent from respective first and second edges of the web, the first and second spaces of the web being outwardly adjacent from the respective first and second ends of the reclosure; and bringing the first and second spaces of the web together, thereby positioning portions of the interlocking element proximate to the first and second ends of the reclosure into unmated opposing end-wise alignment, the first and second ends of the reclosure being separated by a gap. 2. The method of claim 1 further including a step of sealing the first and second spaces of the web to each other. 3. The method of claim 2 wherein the step of sealing forms a fin seal. 4. The method of claim 2 wherein the step of sealing forms a lap seal. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the reclosure is a unisex zipper. 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the reclosure is a multiple alignment zipper. 7. The method of claim 2 wherein the reclosure includes one flange. 8. The method of claim 2 wherein the reclosure includes two flanges. 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of bringing the first and second spaces of the web together further forms first and second walls of the package. 10. A method of claim 1 wherein the reclosure includes a first flange and a peel seal on the flange. 11. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of bringing the first and second spaces of the web together further includes forming the reclosure into loop which has a tendency to remain open. 12. The method of claim 1 further including a step of cross-sealing between sequential packages. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of bringing the first and second spaces of the web together further includes the step of forming a tube. | The disclosure pertains to method for manufacturing reclosable packages, bags or pouches wherein, typically, a unisex zipper is looped so as to form a gap between the ends of the zipper and sealed inside of the package. The formation of the looped zipper segment causes the package to have a wide open mouth, and a natural tendency toward the open configuration.1. A method for manufacturing reclosable packages, including the steps of:
providing a web moving in a machine direction; attaching a reclosure across the web in a transverse direction, wherein the reclosure includes an interlocking element and further includes first and second ends which are inwardly offset from respective first and second edges of the web, thereby providing respective first and second spaces of the web inwardly adjacent from respective first and second edges of the web, the first and second spaces of the web being outwardly adjacent from the respective first and second ends of the reclosure; and bringing the first and second spaces of the web together, thereby positioning portions of the interlocking element proximate to the first and second ends of the reclosure into unmated opposing end-wise alignment, the first and second ends of the reclosure being separated by a gap. 2. The method of claim 1 further including a step of sealing the first and second spaces of the web to each other. 3. The method of claim 2 wherein the step of sealing forms a fin seal. 4. The method of claim 2 wherein the step of sealing forms a lap seal. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the reclosure is a unisex zipper. 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the reclosure is a multiple alignment zipper. 7. The method of claim 2 wherein the reclosure includes one flange. 8. The method of claim 2 wherein the reclosure includes two flanges. 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of bringing the first and second spaces of the web together further forms first and second walls of the package. 10. A method of claim 1 wherein the reclosure includes a first flange and a peel seal on the flange. 11. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of bringing the first and second spaces of the web together further includes forming the reclosure into loop which has a tendency to remain open. 12. The method of claim 1 further including a step of cross-sealing between sequential packages. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of bringing the first and second spaces of the web together further includes the step of forming a tube. | 3,600 |
13,325 | 13,325 | 14,377,696 | 3,652 | A hermetically sealed multi-axis articulated arm apparatus for use within a sealable isolator chamber is disclosed. In one general aspect, it comprises a rotational shaft that passes through an opening in the chamber, a sealing member disposed within the chamber for sealing the shaft to an inner surface of the chamber, interconnected hermetically sealed arm segments operably attached to the linear motion shaft; an end effector operably attached to a terminal arm segment among the arm segments, and at least one fully enclosed drive system for driving and controlling the shaft and the arm segments. The rotational shaft can further be a linear motion shaft for which the sealing member is a bellows. The materials for the parts of the apparatus exposed to the atmosphere of the chamber can be compatible with an aseptic and cleanable environment and the surfaces of the arm segments can be shaped to avoid pooling of contaminants. | 1. A hermetically sealed multi-axis articulated arm apparatus for use within a sealable isolator chamber, the apparatus comprising:
a shaft having a rotational axis, wherein the shaft passes through an opening in the sealable isolator chamber and is configured to rotate around the axis; a sealing member, including:
a mounting surface configured for mounting the sealing member on and hermetically sealing it to an inner surface of the sealable isolator chamber, wherein the mounting surface and the inner surface continuously surround the opening in the sealable isolator chamber,
a shaft sealing surface defined by the sealing member, which surrounds and seals the shaft,
a plurality of interconnected hermetically sealed arm segments, wherein one of the plurality of arm segments is a terminal arm segment, and one of the plurality of arm segments is a first arm segment operably attached to the linear motion shaft; an end effector attached to the terminal arm segment; and at least one drive system for driving and controlling the shaft and the plurality of arm segments, with the drive system being fully enclosed within the articulated arm apparatus. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shaft is a linear motion shaft that is further configured to move axially with respect to the opening along the axis. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the sealing member includes a bellows mounted between the mounting surface and the shaft sealing surface, and wherein the shaft sealing surface is operably connected to the first arm segment. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bellows is disposed within the isolator chamber. 5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bellows is a stainless steel bellows. 6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the outer surfaces of the linear motion shaft, bellows, and arm segments are stainless steel. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the stainless steel is electro-polished. 8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the stainless steel is one of 304, 316 and 316L stainless steel. 9. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bellows is a PTFE bellows. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of arm segments is joined to another of the plurality of arm segments by a hermetically sealed rotary elbow joint, the rotary elbow joint comprising a rotatable hub, an elbow housing, and a radial seal member for hermetically sealing the hub to the elbow housing. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the radial seal member comprises a circumferentially sealing part that extends axially outwards from the elbow housing along the hub to prevent contamination. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the circumferentially sealing part is an exposed cleanable radial lip seal. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the radial seal member comprises a plurality of circumferentially sealing parts. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the plurality of circumferentially sealing parts include at least three circumferentially sealing parts. 15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the arm segments comprises a stainless steel outer shell that increases a strength to mass ratio of the at least one arm segment sufficiently to cause the ratio to be closer to a strength to mass ratio of an aluminum arm of equivalent dimensions that is machined from a solid piece than to a strength to mass ratio of a stainless steel arm of equivalent dimensions that is machined from a solid piece. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the terminal arm segment is the one of the at least one arm segments that comprises the stainless steel outer shell that increases the yield strength. 17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein an upper surface of at least one of the plurality of arm segments is configured to inhibit pooling of a liquid on the articulated arm apparatus and to facilitate runoff of the liquid from the articulated arm apparatus. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the upper surface has a profile to direct contaminants .off the upper surface. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the profile comprises at least one section with a slope of at least one degree with respect to the horizontal. 20. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a plurality of edges of at least one arm segment are radiused to facilitate removal of liquids. 21. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end effector is configured to dispense a pharmaceutical product. 22. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end effector is configured to support a tray. 23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end effector is configured to manipulate a container closure. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the end effector is also configured to manipulate one or more containers. 25. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the arm segment operably attached to the linear motion shaft is shorter than at least one other of the plurality of arm segments. 26. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of arm segments is of seamless single shell design. 27. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein all of the plurality of arm segments is of seamless single shell design. 28. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sealed multi-axis articulated arm apparatus is an automatically controlled and reprogrammable articulated arm. 29. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the drive system is further operative to drive the end effector. 30. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein surfaces of the arm to be exposed to the inside of the sealable isolator chamber are free of slots or gaps of width less than about 10 mm. 31. A method of manipulating pharmaceutical products in a sealable isolator chamber, comprising:
rotating a shaft that passes through an opening in the sealable isolator chamber, moving a plurality of interconnected arm segments that are operatively connected to the shaft to manipulate the pharmaceutical products, sealing a space within the interconnected arm segments, and sealing a portion of the shaft inside the chamber. 32. The method of claim 29, further including the steps of translating the shaft in a series of opposing strokes while the step of sealing a portion of the shaft maintains a hermetic seal during the steps of translating. 33. The method of claim 30, wherein the step of sealing a portion of the shaft is performed by an element that expands and contracts during the steps of translating. 34. The method of claim 29, wherein the step of sealing a space within the interconnected arm segments seals a drive mechanism for moving the arm segments inside the arm segments. | A hermetically sealed multi-axis articulated arm apparatus for use within a sealable isolator chamber is disclosed. In one general aspect, it comprises a rotational shaft that passes through an opening in the chamber, a sealing member disposed within the chamber for sealing the shaft to an inner surface of the chamber, interconnected hermetically sealed arm segments operably attached to the linear motion shaft; an end effector operably attached to a terminal arm segment among the arm segments, and at least one fully enclosed drive system for driving and controlling the shaft and the arm segments. The rotational shaft can further be a linear motion shaft for which the sealing member is a bellows. The materials for the parts of the apparatus exposed to the atmosphere of the chamber can be compatible with an aseptic and cleanable environment and the surfaces of the arm segments can be shaped to avoid pooling of contaminants.1. A hermetically sealed multi-axis articulated arm apparatus for use within a sealable isolator chamber, the apparatus comprising:
a shaft having a rotational axis, wherein the shaft passes through an opening in the sealable isolator chamber and is configured to rotate around the axis; a sealing member, including:
a mounting surface configured for mounting the sealing member on and hermetically sealing it to an inner surface of the sealable isolator chamber, wherein the mounting surface and the inner surface continuously surround the opening in the sealable isolator chamber,
a shaft sealing surface defined by the sealing member, which surrounds and seals the shaft,
a plurality of interconnected hermetically sealed arm segments, wherein one of the plurality of arm segments is a terminal arm segment, and one of the plurality of arm segments is a first arm segment operably attached to the linear motion shaft; an end effector attached to the terminal arm segment; and at least one drive system for driving and controlling the shaft and the plurality of arm segments, with the drive system being fully enclosed within the articulated arm apparatus. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shaft is a linear motion shaft that is further configured to move axially with respect to the opening along the axis. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the sealing member includes a bellows mounted between the mounting surface and the shaft sealing surface, and wherein the shaft sealing surface is operably connected to the first arm segment. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bellows is disposed within the isolator chamber. 5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bellows is a stainless steel bellows. 6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the outer surfaces of the linear motion shaft, bellows, and arm segments are stainless steel. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the stainless steel is electro-polished. 8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the stainless steel is one of 304, 316 and 316L stainless steel. 9. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the bellows is a PTFE bellows. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of arm segments is joined to another of the plurality of arm segments by a hermetically sealed rotary elbow joint, the rotary elbow joint comprising a rotatable hub, an elbow housing, and a radial seal member for hermetically sealing the hub to the elbow housing. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the radial seal member comprises a circumferentially sealing part that extends axially outwards from the elbow housing along the hub to prevent contamination. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the circumferentially sealing part is an exposed cleanable radial lip seal. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the radial seal member comprises a plurality of circumferentially sealing parts. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the plurality of circumferentially sealing parts include at least three circumferentially sealing parts. 15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the arm segments comprises a stainless steel outer shell that increases a strength to mass ratio of the at least one arm segment sufficiently to cause the ratio to be closer to a strength to mass ratio of an aluminum arm of equivalent dimensions that is machined from a solid piece than to a strength to mass ratio of a stainless steel arm of equivalent dimensions that is machined from a solid piece. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the terminal arm segment is the one of the at least one arm segments that comprises the stainless steel outer shell that increases the yield strength. 17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein an upper surface of at least one of the plurality of arm segments is configured to inhibit pooling of a liquid on the articulated arm apparatus and to facilitate runoff of the liquid from the articulated arm apparatus. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the upper surface has a profile to direct contaminants .off the upper surface. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the profile comprises at least one section with a slope of at least one degree with respect to the horizontal. 20. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a plurality of edges of at least one arm segment are radiused to facilitate removal of liquids. 21. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end effector is configured to dispense a pharmaceutical product. 22. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end effector is configured to support a tray. 23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end effector is configured to manipulate a container closure. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the end effector is also configured to manipulate one or more containers. 25. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the arm segment operably attached to the linear motion shaft is shorter than at least one other of the plurality of arm segments. 26. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of arm segments is of seamless single shell design. 27. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein all of the plurality of arm segments is of seamless single shell design. 28. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sealed multi-axis articulated arm apparatus is an automatically controlled and reprogrammable articulated arm. 29. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the drive system is further operative to drive the end effector. 30. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein surfaces of the arm to be exposed to the inside of the sealable isolator chamber are free of slots or gaps of width less than about 10 mm. 31. A method of manipulating pharmaceutical products in a sealable isolator chamber, comprising:
rotating a shaft that passes through an opening in the sealable isolator chamber, moving a plurality of interconnected arm segments that are operatively connected to the shaft to manipulate the pharmaceutical products, sealing a space within the interconnected arm segments, and sealing a portion of the shaft inside the chamber. 32. The method of claim 29, further including the steps of translating the shaft in a series of opposing strokes while the step of sealing a portion of the shaft maintains a hermetic seal during the steps of translating. 33. The method of claim 30, wherein the step of sealing a portion of the shaft is performed by an element that expands and contracts during the steps of translating. 34. The method of claim 29, wherein the step of sealing a space within the interconnected arm segments seals a drive mechanism for moving the arm segments inside the arm segments. | 3,600 |
13,326 | 13,326 | 12,051,196 | 3,624 | A method, apparatus and computer program product for valuing a technological innovation is provided which determines at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. In this regard, the measure of market success may be the salability and/or the marketability of the objective. A fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology may also be determined as well as a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. For example, the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing either existing technology or the technological innovation may be determined using parameterized cost estimation. A real options pricing model may then be used to determine the value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. | 1. A method for valuing a technological innovation comprising:
determining at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon desirability, availability and affordability of the objective; determining a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation based upon the at least one measure of market success of the objective; and using a real options pricing model to determine a value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 2. A method according to claim 1 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon a risk-free rate. 3. A method according to claim 1 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon a date at which the technology innovation reaches a predefined technology readiness level. 4. A method according to claim 3 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon a measure of lost value in the technological innovation prior to the date. 5. A method according to claim 1 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon volatility in the value of the technological innovation. 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein determining the fair value comprises using parameterized cost estimation to determine the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 7. A method according to claim 1 wherein determining at least one measure of market success comprises determining salability and marketability of the objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. 8. An apparatus for valuing a technological innovation comprising:
a processor configured to determine at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon desirability, availability and affordability of the objective, wherein the processor is also configured to determine a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation based upon the at least one measure of market success, and wherein the processor is further configured to use a real options pricing model to determine a value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 9. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a risk-free rate in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 10. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a date at which the technology innovation reaches a predefined technology readiness level in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 11. An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a measure of lost value in the technological innovation prior to the date in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 12. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a volatility in the value of the technological innovation in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 13. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is configured to use parameterized cost estimation to determine the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 14. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to determine salability and marketability as respective measures of success of the objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. 15. A computer program product for valuing a technological innovation, wherein the computer program product comprises a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied in said medium, said computer-readable program code comprising:
a first executable portion configured to determine at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon desirability, availability and affordability of the objective; a second executable portion configured to determine a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation based upon at least one measure of market success of the objective; and a third executable portion configured to use a real options pricing model to determine a value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 16. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a risk-free rate in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 17. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a date at which the technology innovation reaches a predefined technology readiness level in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 18. A computer program product according to claim 17 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a measure of lost value in the technological innovation prior to the date in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 19. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a volatility in the value of the technological innovation in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 20. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the second executable portion is configured to use parameterized cost estimation to determine the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 21. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the first executable portion is further configured to determine salability and marketability as respective measures of success of the objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. | A method, apparatus and computer program product for valuing a technological innovation is provided which determines at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. In this regard, the measure of market success may be the salability and/or the marketability of the objective. A fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology may also be determined as well as a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. For example, the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing either existing technology or the technological innovation may be determined using parameterized cost estimation. A real options pricing model may then be used to determine the value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation.1. A method for valuing a technological innovation comprising:
determining at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon desirability, availability and affordability of the objective; determining a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation based upon the at least one measure of market success of the objective; and using a real options pricing model to determine a value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 2. A method according to claim 1 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon a risk-free rate. 3. A method according to claim 1 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon a date at which the technology innovation reaches a predefined technology readiness level. 4. A method according to claim 3 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon a measure of lost value in the technological innovation prior to the date. 5. A method according to claim 1 wherein using the real options pricing model comprises determining the value of the technological innovation further based upon volatility in the value of the technological innovation. 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein determining the fair value comprises using parameterized cost estimation to determine the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 7. A method according to claim 1 wherein determining at least one measure of market success comprises determining salability and marketability of the objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. 8. An apparatus for valuing a technological innovation comprising:
a processor configured to determine at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon desirability, availability and affordability of the objective, wherein the processor is also configured to determine a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation based upon the at least one measure of market success, and wherein the processor is further configured to use a real options pricing model to determine a value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 9. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a risk-free rate in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 10. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a date at which the technology innovation reaches a predefined technology readiness level in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 11. An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a measure of lost value in the technological innovation prior to the date in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 12. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to at least partially rely upon a volatility in the value of the technological innovation in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 13. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is configured to use parameterized cost estimation to determine the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 14. An apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the processor is further configured to determine salability and marketability as respective measures of success of the objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. 15. A computer program product for valuing a technological innovation, wherein the computer program product comprises a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied in said medium, said computer-readable program code comprising:
a first executable portion configured to determine at least one measure of market success of an objective based upon desirability, availability and affordability of the objective; a second executable portion configured to determine a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and a fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation based upon at least one measure of market success of the objective; and a third executable portion configured to use a real options pricing model to determine a value of the technological innovation based upon the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 16. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a risk-free rate in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 17. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a date at which the technology innovation reaches a predefined technology readiness level in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 18. A computer program product according to claim 17 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a measure of lost value in the technological innovation prior to the date in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 19. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the third executable portion is further configured to at least partially rely upon a volatility in the value of the technological innovation in order to determine the value of the technological innovation using the real options pricing model. 20. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the second executable portion is configured to use parameterized cost estimation to determine the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing existing technology and the fair value of the objective implemented utilizing the technological innovation. 21. A computer program product according to claim 15 wherein the first executable portion is further configured to determine salability and marketability as respective measures of success of the objective based upon the desirability, availability and affordability of the objective. | 3,600 |
13,327 | 13,327 | 14,816,548 | 3,629 | A method, system and computer-usable medium are disclosed for automating the layout of a space layout based upon organization requirements and space constraints. An integrated workplace management system (IWMS) receives a set of organization structure data associated with an organization and a building information model (BIM) containing a set of space constraint data associated with a target space. The set of organization structure data and the set of space constraint data are then processed by the IWMS to automatically generate a space layout corresponding to the target space. | 1. A computer-implemented method for automating the layout of a space, comprising:
receiving a first set of organization structure data associated with an organization, the first set of organization structure data being received by an integrated workplace management system (IWMS); receiving a first building information model (BIM) comprising a first set of space constraint data associated with a first space, the first BIM being received by the IWMS; and processing the first set of organization structure data and the first set of space constraint data to automatically generate a first space layout corresponding to the first space, the processing being performed by the IWMS. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the organization structure data comprises space entitlement rules associated with at least one member of the set of:
the organizational role of a user of a space; the personal identity of a user of a space; accommodation for predetermined needs associated with a user of a space; the type of an allocated space; the size of an allocated space; the shape of an allocated space; the placement of an allocated space; costs associated with an allocated space; features associated with an allocated space; whether an allocated space is shared; architectural requirements associated with an allocated space; and allocation of common spaces. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the space constraint data comprises at least one member of the set of:
physical constraint data; architectural constraint data; financial constraint data; and legal constraint data. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a second BIM comprising a second set of space constraint data associated with a second space, the second BIM received by the IWMS; processing the first set of organization structure data and the second set of space constraint data to automatically generate a second space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the first space layout to the second space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a first set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the first space layout and the second space layout. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
processing the first set of space utilization metrics with the first set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
processing the first set of organization structure data to generate a second set of organization structure date, the processing comprising performing revisions to the first set of organization structure data; processing the second set of organization structure data with the first and second sets of space constraint data to automatically generate a third space layout corresponding to the first space and a fourth space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the third space layout to the fourth space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a second set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the third space layout and the fourth space layout; and processing the second set of space utilization metrics with the second set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. | A method, system and computer-usable medium are disclosed for automating the layout of a space layout based upon organization requirements and space constraints. An integrated workplace management system (IWMS) receives a set of organization structure data associated with an organization and a building information model (BIM) containing a set of space constraint data associated with a target space. The set of organization structure data and the set of space constraint data are then processed by the IWMS to automatically generate a space layout corresponding to the target space.1. A computer-implemented method for automating the layout of a space, comprising:
receiving a first set of organization structure data associated with an organization, the first set of organization structure data being received by an integrated workplace management system (IWMS); receiving a first building information model (BIM) comprising a first set of space constraint data associated with a first space, the first BIM being received by the IWMS; and processing the first set of organization structure data and the first set of space constraint data to automatically generate a first space layout corresponding to the first space, the processing being performed by the IWMS. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the organization structure data comprises space entitlement rules associated with at least one member of the set of:
the organizational role of a user of a space; the personal identity of a user of a space; accommodation for predetermined needs associated with a user of a space; the type of an allocated space; the size of an allocated space; the shape of an allocated space; the placement of an allocated space; costs associated with an allocated space; features associated with an allocated space; whether an allocated space is shared; architectural requirements associated with an allocated space; and allocation of common spaces. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the space constraint data comprises at least one member of the set of:
physical constraint data; architectural constraint data; financial constraint data; and legal constraint data. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a second BIM comprising a second set of space constraint data associated with a second space, the second BIM received by the IWMS; processing the first set of organization structure data and the second set of space constraint data to automatically generate a second space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the first space layout to the second space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a first set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the first space layout and the second space layout. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
processing the first set of space utilization metrics with the first set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
processing the first set of organization structure data to generate a second set of organization structure date, the processing comprising performing revisions to the first set of organization structure data; processing the second set of organization structure data with the first and second sets of space constraint data to automatically generate a third space layout corresponding to the first space and a fourth space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the third space layout to the fourth space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a second set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the third space layout and the fourth space layout; and processing the second set of space utilization metrics with the second set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. | 3,600 |
13,328 | 13,328 | 14,957,589 | 3,674 | A fluid-impermeable barrier, used to isolate stimulated intervals in a reservoir during a multi-zone fracturing operation, may be removed from the wellbore which penetrates the reservoir using a circulating fluid containing dissolvable solid particulates. The dissolvable solid particulates bridge perforation clusters during clean-out of the wellbore and thus inhibit passage of the circulating fluid into the fracture network through the perforation clusters. | 1. A method of enhancing the efficiency in the removal of debris from a wellbore penetrating a multi-zoned subterranean reservoir wherein the debris originates, at least in part, from a fluid-impermeable barrier separating perforated zones during a multi-zone fracturing operation, the method comprising:
(a) milling the fluid-impermeable barrier separating the perforated zones; (b) circulating a fluid through the wellbore and into the separated perforated zones, wherein the fluid comprises water or brine and dissolvable solid particulates; (c) plugging perforation clusters in the separated perforated zones with the dissolvable solid particulates and preventing the flow of the circulating fluid through the perforation clusters; and (d) removing debris from the wellbore in the circulating fluid. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the wellbore is horizontal. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates are selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyesters, benzoic acid, phthalic acid, phthalic anhydride, terephthalic anhydride, terephthalic acid, gilsonite, rock salt, benzoic acid flakes, polylactic acid and mixtures thereof. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates are of the formula:
or anhydrides therefore, wherein:
R1 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4 or —H;
R2 and R3 are selected from the group consisting of —H and —COO—(R5O)y—R4;
provided both R2 or R3 are —COO—(R5O)y—R4 when R1 is —H and
further provided only one of R2 or R3 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4 when R1 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4;
R4 is —H or a C1-C6 alkyl group;
R5 is a C1-C6 alkylene group; and
each y is 0 to 5. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates further comprises an aliphatic polyester having the general formula of repeating units:
where n is an integer between 75 and 10,000 and R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, alkylaryl, acetyl, heteroatoms, and mixtures thereof; and
aliphatic polyester is poly(lactide). 6. The method of claim 4, wherein R1 is —H. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein y is 0 and R4 is —H. 8. The method of claim 4, wherein R1 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4 and R2 is —H. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein y is 0 and R4 is —H. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the subterranean reservoir is sandstone or carbonate or coal. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the circulating fluid further comprises a proppant. 12. A method of drilling out a barrier from a wellbore after stimulating multiple zones in a subterranean reservoir penetrated by the wellbore wherein the barrier isolates perforation clusters in a first zone from a second zone, the method comprising:
(a) milling the barrier isolating the first zone and the second zone with a tubing inserted into the well; (b) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the wellbore; (c) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through the perforation clusters into fractures in the first zone and the second zone with the dissolvable solid particulates; and (d) removing the circulating fluid with debris from the barrier out of the wellbore. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein a barrier separates perforation clusters in the second zone from a third zone and further comprising:
(e) milling the barrier isolating the second zone and the third zone with a tubing inserted into the well; (f) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the wellbore; (g) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through perforation clusters into fractures in the second zone and the third zone with the dissolvable solid particulates; and (h) removing debris from the wellbore. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates in step (b) and step (f) are the same. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the circulating fluid further comprises proppant. 16. A method of cleaning out a wellbore penetrating a subterranean reservoir wherein different zones of the subterranean reservoir have been successively stimulated by flowing fracturing fluid through perforation clusters and wherein the wellbore is contaminated with debris from a barrier separating two adjacent stimulated zones, the method comprising:
(a) drilling out the barrier isolating the two adjacent zones; (b) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the two adjacent zones; (c) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through the perforation clusters into fractures in the two adjacent zones with the dissolvable solid particulates; and (d) removing debris from the wellbore. 17. The method of claim 16 further comprising:
(e) drilling out a fluid-impermeable barrier isolating two other adjacent zones having been stimulated by flowing fracturing fluid through perforation clusters;
(f) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the two other adjacent zones;
(g) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through perforation clusters into fractures in the two other adjacent zones with the dissolvable solid particulates. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising repeating at least once steps (e), (f) and (g). 19. The method of claim 16, wherein the wellbore is horizontal. 20. The method of claim 16, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates are selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyesters, benzoic acid, phthalic acid, phthalic anhydride, terephthalic anhydride, terephthalic acid, gilsonite, rock salt, benzoic acid flakes, polylactic acid and mixtures thereof. 21. The method of claim 16, wherein the circulating fluid further comprises a proppant. 22. The method of claim 16, wherein the subterranean reservoir is sandstone or carbonate or coal. | A fluid-impermeable barrier, used to isolate stimulated intervals in a reservoir during a multi-zone fracturing operation, may be removed from the wellbore which penetrates the reservoir using a circulating fluid containing dissolvable solid particulates. The dissolvable solid particulates bridge perforation clusters during clean-out of the wellbore and thus inhibit passage of the circulating fluid into the fracture network through the perforation clusters.1. A method of enhancing the efficiency in the removal of debris from a wellbore penetrating a multi-zoned subterranean reservoir wherein the debris originates, at least in part, from a fluid-impermeable barrier separating perforated zones during a multi-zone fracturing operation, the method comprising:
(a) milling the fluid-impermeable barrier separating the perforated zones; (b) circulating a fluid through the wellbore and into the separated perforated zones, wherein the fluid comprises water or brine and dissolvable solid particulates; (c) plugging perforation clusters in the separated perforated zones with the dissolvable solid particulates and preventing the flow of the circulating fluid through the perforation clusters; and (d) removing debris from the wellbore in the circulating fluid. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the wellbore is horizontal. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates are selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyesters, benzoic acid, phthalic acid, phthalic anhydride, terephthalic anhydride, terephthalic acid, gilsonite, rock salt, benzoic acid flakes, polylactic acid and mixtures thereof. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates are of the formula:
or anhydrides therefore, wherein:
R1 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4 or —H;
R2 and R3 are selected from the group consisting of —H and —COO—(R5O)y—R4;
provided both R2 or R3 are —COO—(R5O)y—R4 when R1 is —H and
further provided only one of R2 or R3 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4 when R1 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4;
R4 is —H or a C1-C6 alkyl group;
R5 is a C1-C6 alkylene group; and
each y is 0 to 5. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates further comprises an aliphatic polyester having the general formula of repeating units:
where n is an integer between 75 and 10,000 and R is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, alkylaryl, acetyl, heteroatoms, and mixtures thereof; and
aliphatic polyester is poly(lactide). 6. The method of claim 4, wherein R1 is —H. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein y is 0 and R4 is —H. 8. The method of claim 4, wherein R1 is —COO—(R5O)y—R4 and R2 is —H. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein y is 0 and R4 is —H. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the subterranean reservoir is sandstone or carbonate or coal. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the circulating fluid further comprises a proppant. 12. A method of drilling out a barrier from a wellbore after stimulating multiple zones in a subterranean reservoir penetrated by the wellbore wherein the barrier isolates perforation clusters in a first zone from a second zone, the method comprising:
(a) milling the barrier isolating the first zone and the second zone with a tubing inserted into the well; (b) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the wellbore; (c) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through the perforation clusters into fractures in the first zone and the second zone with the dissolvable solid particulates; and (d) removing the circulating fluid with debris from the barrier out of the wellbore. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein a barrier separates perforation clusters in the second zone from a third zone and further comprising:
(e) milling the barrier isolating the second zone and the third zone with a tubing inserted into the well; (f) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the wellbore; (g) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through perforation clusters into fractures in the second zone and the third zone with the dissolvable solid particulates; and (h) removing debris from the wellbore. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates in step (b) and step (f) are the same. 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the circulating fluid further comprises proppant. 16. A method of cleaning out a wellbore penetrating a subterranean reservoir wherein different zones of the subterranean reservoir have been successively stimulated by flowing fracturing fluid through perforation clusters and wherein the wellbore is contaminated with debris from a barrier separating two adjacent stimulated zones, the method comprising:
(a) drilling out the barrier isolating the two adjacent zones; (b) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the two adjacent zones; (c) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through the perforation clusters into fractures in the two adjacent zones with the dissolvable solid particulates; and (d) removing debris from the wellbore. 17. The method of claim 16 further comprising:
(e) drilling out a fluid-impermeable barrier isolating two other adjacent zones having been stimulated by flowing fracturing fluid through perforation clusters;
(f) circulating fluid comprising dissolvable solid particulates into the two other adjacent zones;
(g) blocking, at least partially, the flow of circulating fluid through perforation clusters into fractures in the two other adjacent zones with the dissolvable solid particulates. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising repeating at least once steps (e), (f) and (g). 19. The method of claim 16, wherein the wellbore is horizontal. 20. The method of claim 16, wherein the dissolvable solid particulates are selected from the group consisting of aliphatic polyesters, benzoic acid, phthalic acid, phthalic anhydride, terephthalic anhydride, terephthalic acid, gilsonite, rock salt, benzoic acid flakes, polylactic acid and mixtures thereof. 21. The method of claim 16, wherein the circulating fluid further comprises a proppant. 22. The method of claim 16, wherein the subterranean reservoir is sandstone or carbonate or coal. | 3,600 |
13,329 | 13,329 | 12,977,780 | 3,627 | An information technology (IT) asset management system provides for logically grouping IT assets and performing actions on the logical groups. Cluster analysis techniques are used to analyze the configuration data corresponding to IT assets in the IT asset management system, generating proposed logical groups from the clusters determined by the cluster analysis techniques. A system administrator may be allowed to accept or reject the proposed logical groups. | 1. A method, comprising:
registering a plurality of information technology assets of an enterprise in a computerized information technology asset management system; performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and adding a cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets as a logical group in the information technology asset management system. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of adding a cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets as a logical group in the information technology asset management system comprises:
displaying a cluster of information technology assets as a proposed logical group in a user interface of the information technology asset management system; requesting an administrator to accept the proposed logical group; and adding the cluster of information technology assets as a logical group in the information technology asset management system if accepted by the administrator. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the act of displaying a cluster of information technology assets as a proposed logical group in a user interface of the information technology asset management system comprises:
displaying a representation of the cluster of information technology assets in the user interface; and displaying configuration data corresponding to the cluster of information technology assets in the user interface with the representation of the cluster of information technology assets. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein every cluster of the plurality of clusters is added as a logical group in the information technology asset management system without user intervention. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
storing configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets in a temporary database; converting the configuration data to a numeric form; and performing cluster analysis on the numeric form. 6. The method claim 5, wherein the act of converting the configuration data to numeric form in the temporary database comprises:
defining a plurality of ranges of an attribute of the configuration data; and associating a numeric value with each of the plurality of ranges. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the act of defining a plurality of ranges of an attribute of the configuration data is performed independent of the configuration data. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
performing a first cluster analysis on all attributes of the configuration data, generating a first plurality of clusters of information technology assets; performing a second cluster analysis on a subset of attributes of the configuration data, generating a second plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and selecting the first plurality of clusters or the second plurality of clusters responsive to a comparison between the first plurality of clusters and the second plurality of clusters. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the comparison between the first plurality of clusters and the second plurality of clusters compares a cohesiveness of the first plurality of clusters and a cohesiveness of the second plurality of clusters. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
performing a factor analysis on the configuration data; and re-performing the cluster analysis on the configuration data responsive to the factor analysis. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
selecting a first cluster analysis technique from a plurality of cluster analysis techniques; and performing the first cluster analysis technique on the configuration data, generating the plurality of clusters of information technology assets. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the act of selecting a first cluster analysis technique from a plurality of cluster analysis techniques is performed responsive to a classification of the information technology assets. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the act of selecting a first cluster analysis technique from a plurality of cluster analysis techniques comprises:
requesting an instruction from a system administrator; and selecting the first cluster analysis technique responsive to the instruction. 14. A computer readable medium with instructions for a programmable control device stored thereon wherein the instructions cause a programmable control device to perform the method of claim 1. 15. A networked computer system comprising:
a plurality of computers communicatively coupled, at least one of the plurality of computers programmed to perform at least a portion of the method of claim 1 wherein the entire method of claim 1 is performed collectively by the plurality of computers. 16. A computerized information technology asset management system, comprising:
a database of information technology asset configuration data, entries in which comprise a plurality of attributes of information technology assets; a processor, coupled to the database of information technology assets; a program storage unit, coupled to the processor; and software, stored in the program storage unit, comprising instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform actions, comprising:
selecting a plurality of configuration data corresponding to a plurality of information technology assets;
performing cluster analysis on the plurality of configuration data, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and
adding a logical group to the information technology management system corresponding to a first cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets. 17. The system of claim 16, further comprising:
a user interface, configured to display a representation of the first cluster for a system administrator, wherein the act of adding a logical group to the information technology management system corresponding to a first cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
displaying the representation of the first cluster in the user interface;
asking the system administrator to accept the first cluster as a logical group; and
adding the first cluster as a logical group in the information technology management system responsive to acceptance by the system administrator. 18. The system of claim 16, further comprising:
a temporary database, coupled to the processor, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on the plurality of configuration data, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
storing configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets in the temporary database;
converting the configuration data to a numeric form; and
performing cluster analysis on the numeric form. 19. The system of claim 16, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on the plurality of configuration data, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
performing a first cluster analysis on all attributes of the configuration data, generating a first plurality of clusters of information technology assets; performing a second cluster analysis on a subset of attributes of the configuration data, generating a second plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and selecting the first plurality of clusters or the second plurality of clusters responsive to a comparison between the first plurality of clusters and the second plurality of clusters. 20. The system of claim 16, wherein the software further comprises instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform actions comprising:
performing a factor analysis on the configuration data; and re-performing the cluster analysis on the configuration data responsive to the factor analysis. | An information technology (IT) asset management system provides for logically grouping IT assets and performing actions on the logical groups. Cluster analysis techniques are used to analyze the configuration data corresponding to IT assets in the IT asset management system, generating proposed logical groups from the clusters determined by the cluster analysis techniques. A system administrator may be allowed to accept or reject the proposed logical groups.1. A method, comprising:
registering a plurality of information technology assets of an enterprise in a computerized information technology asset management system; performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and adding a cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets as a logical group in the information technology asset management system. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of adding a cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets as a logical group in the information technology asset management system comprises:
displaying a cluster of information technology assets as a proposed logical group in a user interface of the information technology asset management system; requesting an administrator to accept the proposed logical group; and adding the cluster of information technology assets as a logical group in the information technology asset management system if accepted by the administrator. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the act of displaying a cluster of information technology assets as a proposed logical group in a user interface of the information technology asset management system comprises:
displaying a representation of the cluster of information technology assets in the user interface; and displaying configuration data corresponding to the cluster of information technology assets in the user interface with the representation of the cluster of information technology assets. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein every cluster of the plurality of clusters is added as a logical group in the information technology asset management system without user intervention. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
storing configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets in a temporary database; converting the configuration data to a numeric form; and performing cluster analysis on the numeric form. 6. The method claim 5, wherein the act of converting the configuration data to numeric form in the temporary database comprises:
defining a plurality of ranges of an attribute of the configuration data; and associating a numeric value with each of the plurality of ranges. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the act of defining a plurality of ranges of an attribute of the configuration data is performed independent of the configuration data. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
performing a first cluster analysis on all attributes of the configuration data, generating a first plurality of clusters of information technology assets; performing a second cluster analysis on a subset of attributes of the configuration data, generating a second plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and selecting the first plurality of clusters or the second plurality of clusters responsive to a comparison between the first plurality of clusters and the second plurality of clusters. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the comparison between the first plurality of clusters and the second plurality of clusters compares a cohesiveness of the first plurality of clusters and a cohesiveness of the second plurality of clusters. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
performing a factor analysis on the configuration data; and re-performing the cluster analysis on the configuration data responsive to the factor analysis. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
selecting a first cluster analysis technique from a plurality of cluster analysis techniques; and performing the first cluster analysis technique on the configuration data, generating the plurality of clusters of information technology assets. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the act of selecting a first cluster analysis technique from a plurality of cluster analysis techniques is performed responsive to a classification of the information technology assets. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the act of selecting a first cluster analysis technique from a plurality of cluster analysis techniques comprises:
requesting an instruction from a system administrator; and selecting the first cluster analysis technique responsive to the instruction. 14. A computer readable medium with instructions for a programmable control device stored thereon wherein the instructions cause a programmable control device to perform the method of claim 1. 15. A networked computer system comprising:
a plurality of computers communicatively coupled, at least one of the plurality of computers programmed to perform at least a portion of the method of claim 1 wherein the entire method of claim 1 is performed collectively by the plurality of computers. 16. A computerized information technology asset management system, comprising:
a database of information technology asset configuration data, entries in which comprise a plurality of attributes of information technology assets; a processor, coupled to the database of information technology assets; a program storage unit, coupled to the processor; and software, stored in the program storage unit, comprising instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform actions, comprising:
selecting a plurality of configuration data corresponding to a plurality of information technology assets;
performing cluster analysis on the plurality of configuration data, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and
adding a logical group to the information technology management system corresponding to a first cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets. 17. The system of claim 16, further comprising:
a user interface, configured to display a representation of the first cluster for a system administrator, wherein the act of adding a logical group to the information technology management system corresponding to a first cluster of the plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
displaying the representation of the first cluster in the user interface;
asking the system administrator to accept the first cluster as a logical group; and
adding the first cluster as a logical group in the information technology management system responsive to acceptance by the system administrator. 18. The system of claim 16, further comprising:
a temporary database, coupled to the processor, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on the plurality of configuration data, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
storing configuration data corresponding to the plurality of information technology assets in the temporary database;
converting the configuration data to a numeric form; and
performing cluster analysis on the numeric form. 19. The system of claim 16, wherein the act of performing cluster analysis on the plurality of configuration data, generating a plurality of clusters of information technology assets comprises:
performing a first cluster analysis on all attributes of the configuration data, generating a first plurality of clusters of information technology assets; performing a second cluster analysis on a subset of attributes of the configuration data, generating a second plurality of clusters of information technology assets; and selecting the first plurality of clusters or the second plurality of clusters responsive to a comparison between the first plurality of clusters and the second plurality of clusters. 20. The system of claim 16, wherein the software further comprises instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform actions comprising:
performing a factor analysis on the configuration data; and re-performing the cluster analysis on the configuration data responsive to the factor analysis. | 3,600 |
13,330 | 13,330 | 14,328,509 | 3,682 | Methods for providing contextual information about communication devices and/or services. Profile information indicating a user's communication devices and/or services is stored. When profile information or a message log is displayed, the user may identify a communication device and/or service. A query inquires whether the user would like contextual information. The contextual information may be obtained from a gateway in a data network or a telecommunications manager in a telecommunication network. The contextual information is displayed. Profile information about a user's communicating partner may be stored. When the user makes an effort to communicate with the partner, a check may be made of the partner's profile information for a preferred communication device and/or service. If the user does not have a communication device and/or service corresponding to that of the communicating partner, a query may inquire whether the user would like contextual information. If so, the contextual information is presented. | 1. A method comprising:
identifying, using at least one processor, a communication between a first user and a second user; comparing user profile information for the first user to user profile information for the second user; identifying, based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user, contextual information to provide to the second user; and providing, to the second user, a notification associated with the identified contextual information. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining a difference between the user profile information for the first user and the user profile information for the second user based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user; and wherein identifying contextual information to provide to the second user is further based on the determined difference between the user profile information for the first user and the user profile information for the second user. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
identifying a communication preference for the first user based on the user profile information for the first user; and determining the second user does not have access to the communication preference of the first user based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein identifying contextual information to provide to the second user is further based on the determination that the second user does not have access to the communication preference of the first user. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the identified contextual information to provide to the second user comprises information about the communication preference of the first user. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising obtaining content to include in the notification associated with the identified contextual information. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the content to include in the notification comprises an invitation to learn more about the communication preference. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the content to include in the notification further comprises a reference to the first user. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising detecting a user interaction from the second user corresponding to the notification associated with the identified contextual information. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising providing, in response to the detected user interaction from the second user, the contextual information to the second user. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising providing, within the contextual information, a selectable option to allow the second user to gain access the communication preference of the first user. 12. A method comprising:
detecting, using at least one processor, a contextual information presentation opportunity for a second user; analyzing user profile information for the second user in response to detecting the contextual information presentation opportunity; identifying, based on the analysis of the user profile information for the second user, contextual information to provide to the second user; and providing, to the second user, a notification associated with the identified contextual information. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein detecting the contextual information presentation opportunity for the second user comprises identifying a communication from a first user to the second user. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a communication type of the communication from the first user to the second user; and wherein analyzing the user profile information for the second user comprises comparing the communication type of the communication received from the first user to the preferred communication type of the second user. 15. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a communication service associated with the first user based on the communication from the first user to the second user; and wherein analyzing the user profile information for the second user comprises comparing the communication service associated with the first user with a communication service associated with the second user. 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a communication device associated with the first user based on the communication from the first user to the second user; and wherein analyzing the user profile information for the second user comprises comparing the communication device associated with the first user with a communication device associated with the second user. 17. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
detecting a positive response from the second user with respect to the notification associated with the contextual information; and providing the contextual information to the second user. 18. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
detecting a negative response from the second user with respect to the notification associated with the contextual information; and ceasing to provide, to the second user, the notification associated with the identified contextual information. 19. A system comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions thereon that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to: identify, using at least one processor, a communication between a first user and a second user; compare user profile information for the first user to user profile information for the second user; identify, based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user, contextual information to provide to the second user; and present, to the second user, a notification associated with the identified contextual information. 20. The system of claim 19, further comprising instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to:
detect a response from the second user with respect to the notification associated with the identified contextual information; determine whether the detected response is a positive response or a negative response; based on a determination of a positive response, provide the contextual information to the second user; and based on a determination of a negative response, cease to present, to the second user, the notification associated with the contextual information. | Methods for providing contextual information about communication devices and/or services. Profile information indicating a user's communication devices and/or services is stored. When profile information or a message log is displayed, the user may identify a communication device and/or service. A query inquires whether the user would like contextual information. The contextual information may be obtained from a gateway in a data network or a telecommunications manager in a telecommunication network. The contextual information is displayed. Profile information about a user's communicating partner may be stored. When the user makes an effort to communicate with the partner, a check may be made of the partner's profile information for a preferred communication device and/or service. If the user does not have a communication device and/or service corresponding to that of the communicating partner, a query may inquire whether the user would like contextual information. If so, the contextual information is presented.1. A method comprising:
identifying, using at least one processor, a communication between a first user and a second user; comparing user profile information for the first user to user profile information for the second user; identifying, based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user, contextual information to provide to the second user; and providing, to the second user, a notification associated with the identified contextual information. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining a difference between the user profile information for the first user and the user profile information for the second user based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user; and wherein identifying contextual information to provide to the second user is further based on the determined difference between the user profile information for the first user and the user profile information for the second user. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
identifying a communication preference for the first user based on the user profile information for the first user; and determining the second user does not have access to the communication preference of the first user based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein identifying contextual information to provide to the second user is further based on the determination that the second user does not have access to the communication preference of the first user. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the identified contextual information to provide to the second user comprises information about the communication preference of the first user. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising obtaining content to include in the notification associated with the identified contextual information. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the content to include in the notification comprises an invitation to learn more about the communication preference. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the content to include in the notification further comprises a reference to the first user. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising detecting a user interaction from the second user corresponding to the notification associated with the identified contextual information. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising providing, in response to the detected user interaction from the second user, the contextual information to the second user. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising providing, within the contextual information, a selectable option to allow the second user to gain access the communication preference of the first user. 12. A method comprising:
detecting, using at least one processor, a contextual information presentation opportunity for a second user; analyzing user profile information for the second user in response to detecting the contextual information presentation opportunity; identifying, based on the analysis of the user profile information for the second user, contextual information to provide to the second user; and providing, to the second user, a notification associated with the identified contextual information. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein detecting the contextual information presentation opportunity for the second user comprises identifying a communication from a first user to the second user. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a communication type of the communication from the first user to the second user; and wherein analyzing the user profile information for the second user comprises comparing the communication type of the communication received from the first user to the preferred communication type of the second user. 15. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a communication service associated with the first user based on the communication from the first user to the second user; and wherein analyzing the user profile information for the second user comprises comparing the communication service associated with the first user with a communication service associated with the second user. 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a communication device associated with the first user based on the communication from the first user to the second user; and wherein analyzing the user profile information for the second user comprises comparing the communication device associated with the first user with a communication device associated with the second user. 17. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
detecting a positive response from the second user with respect to the notification associated with the contextual information; and providing the contextual information to the second user. 18. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
detecting a negative response from the second user with respect to the notification associated with the contextual information; and ceasing to provide, to the second user, the notification associated with the identified contextual information. 19. A system comprising:
at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions thereon that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to: identify, using at least one processor, a communication between a first user and a second user; compare user profile information for the first user to user profile information for the second user; identify, based on the comparison of the user profile information for the first user to the user profile information for the second user, contextual information to provide to the second user; and present, to the second user, a notification associated with the identified contextual information. 20. The system of claim 19, further comprising instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to:
detect a response from the second user with respect to the notification associated with the identified contextual information; determine whether the detected response is a positive response or a negative response; based on a determination of a positive response, provide the contextual information to the second user; and based on a determination of a negative response, cease to present, to the second user, the notification associated with the contextual information. | 3,600 |
13,331 | 13,331 | 15,313,134 | 3,669 | A method is described for operating a steering system ( 2 ) of a motor vehicle. A steering means ( 8 ) is connected to a steering gear ( 14 ) by means of an active steering system ( 4 ). During autonomous operation of the motor vehicle, a driver's intervention ( 40 ) in the steering means ( 8 ) is determined. The active steering system ( 4 ) is operated in such a way that a coupling ( 30 ) between an angle ( 26 ) of the steering means and an angle ( 28 ) input into the steering gear ( 14 ) is adjusted depending on the thus determined driver's intervention ( 40 ). | 1. A method for operating a steering system (2) of a motor vehicle, wherein a steering means (8) is connected to a steering gear (14) via a superimposition steering system (4), the method comprising:
detecting, during an autonomous driving mode of the motor vehicle, a driver intervention (40) of the driver into the steering means, and operating the superimposition steering system (4) in such a way that a coupling (30) between a steering means angle (26) and an angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) is adjusted as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein an autonomous steering function by means of which a wheel steering angle (24) of the steering system (2) of the motor vehicle can be influenced is active during the autonomous driving mode, and further comprising determining the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising increasing the coupling (30) as a function of an increasing or consistently elevated driver intervention (40). 4. The method as claimed in claim 2, further comprising reducing the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) as a function of an increasing or constantly increased driver intervention (40). 5. The method as claimed in claim 3, further comprising detecting the increasing or constant increased driver intervention (40) at a first time, and wherein starting from the first time up to a second time the coupling (30) is increased and/or the influence of the autonomous steering function on the steering wheel angle (24) is reduced in such a way that at or after the second time the autonomous steering function can be deactivated. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling (30) is reduced as a function of a reducing driver intervention (40). 7. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) is increased as a function of a reducing driver intervention (40). 8. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein at a third time the reducing driver intervention (40) is detected, and wherein starting from the third time up to a fourth time the coupling (30) is reduced and/or the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) is increased in such a way that at or after the third time the steering function has complete control over the steering system (2). 9. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the coupling (30) is adjusted as a function of a current and/or planned setpoint torque input into the steering gear (14), which input is detected by the autonomous steering function. 10. The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein in the case of an increased vehicle speed, the time period between the first time and the second time and/or the time period between the third time and the fourth time is longer than in the case of a reduced vehicle speed. 11. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein a differentiation is made between an intended driver intervention (40) and between an unintended driver intervention (40), wherein, in the case of an intended driver intervention (40) the coupling (30) is increased or maintained, and wherein in the case of an unintended driver intervention (40) the coupling (30) is reduced. 12. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein an increase in the coupling (30) between the steering means angle (26) and the angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) reduces a relative movement of an input shaft (10) of the superimposition steering system (4) and of the output shaft (12) of the superimposition steering system (4), and wherein a reduction in the coupling (30) between the steering means angle (26) and the angle (12) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) increases a relative movement of the input shaft (10) of the superimposition steering system (4) and of the output shaft (12) of the superimposition steering system (4). 13. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the driver intervention (40) constitutes a steering angle which is applied to the steering means (8) by the driver of the vehicle and/or a torque which is applied to the steering means (8) by the driver of the vehicle, and wherein the driver intervention (40) is detected as a function of calculated and/or measured variables. 14. A computer program for a digital computing device (20), which computing device (20) is designed to
detect, during an autonomous driving mode of a motor vehicle, a driver intervention (40) of a driver of the motor vehicle into a steering means, and operate a superimposition steering system (4) in such a way that a coupling (30) between a steering means angle (26) and an angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) is adjusted as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). 15. A control device (18) for operating a steering system (2) of a motor vehicle, which control device (18) is provided with a digital computing device (20) configured to
detect, during an autonomous driving mode of a motor vehicle, a driver intervention (40) of a driver of the motor vehicle into a steering means, and operate a superimposition steering system (4) in such a way that a coupling (30) between a steering means angle (26) and an angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) is adjusted as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). | A method is described for operating a steering system ( 2 ) of a motor vehicle. A steering means ( 8 ) is connected to a steering gear ( 14 ) by means of an active steering system ( 4 ). During autonomous operation of the motor vehicle, a driver's intervention ( 40 ) in the steering means ( 8 ) is determined. The active steering system ( 4 ) is operated in such a way that a coupling ( 30 ) between an angle ( 26 ) of the steering means and an angle ( 28 ) input into the steering gear ( 14 ) is adjusted depending on the thus determined driver's intervention ( 40 ).1. A method for operating a steering system (2) of a motor vehicle, wherein a steering means (8) is connected to a steering gear (14) via a superimposition steering system (4), the method comprising:
detecting, during an autonomous driving mode of the motor vehicle, a driver intervention (40) of the driver into the steering means, and operating the superimposition steering system (4) in such a way that a coupling (30) between a steering means angle (26) and an angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) is adjusted as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein an autonomous steering function by means of which a wheel steering angle (24) of the steering system (2) of the motor vehicle can be influenced is active during the autonomous driving mode, and further comprising determining the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising increasing the coupling (30) as a function of an increasing or consistently elevated driver intervention (40). 4. The method as claimed in claim 2, further comprising reducing the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) as a function of an increasing or constantly increased driver intervention (40). 5. The method as claimed in claim 3, further comprising detecting the increasing or constant increased driver intervention (40) at a first time, and wherein starting from the first time up to a second time the coupling (30) is increased and/or the influence of the autonomous steering function on the steering wheel angle (24) is reduced in such a way that at or after the second time the autonomous steering function can be deactivated. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling (30) is reduced as a function of a reducing driver intervention (40). 7. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) is increased as a function of a reducing driver intervention (40). 8. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein at a third time the reducing driver intervention (40) is detected, and wherein starting from the third time up to a fourth time the coupling (30) is reduced and/or the influence of the autonomous steering function on the wheel steering angle (24) is increased in such a way that at or after the third time the steering function has complete control over the steering system (2). 9. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the coupling (30) is adjusted as a function of a current and/or planned setpoint torque input into the steering gear (14), which input is detected by the autonomous steering function. 10. The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein in the case of an increased vehicle speed, the time period between the first time and the second time and/or the time period between the third time and the fourth time is longer than in the case of a reduced vehicle speed. 11. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein a differentiation is made between an intended driver intervention (40) and between an unintended driver intervention (40), wherein, in the case of an intended driver intervention (40) the coupling (30) is increased or maintained, and wherein in the case of an unintended driver intervention (40) the coupling (30) is reduced. 12. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein an increase in the coupling (30) between the steering means angle (26) and the angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) reduces a relative movement of an input shaft (10) of the superimposition steering system (4) and of the output shaft (12) of the superimposition steering system (4), and wherein a reduction in the coupling (30) between the steering means angle (26) and the angle (12) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) increases a relative movement of the input shaft (10) of the superimposition steering system (4) and of the output shaft (12) of the superimposition steering system (4). 13. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the driver intervention (40) constitutes a steering angle which is applied to the steering means (8) by the driver of the vehicle and/or a torque which is applied to the steering means (8) by the driver of the vehicle, and wherein the driver intervention (40) is detected as a function of calculated and/or measured variables. 14. A computer program for a digital computing device (20), which computing device (20) is designed to
detect, during an autonomous driving mode of a motor vehicle, a driver intervention (40) of a driver of the motor vehicle into a steering means, and operate a superimposition steering system (4) in such a way that a coupling (30) between a steering means angle (26) and an angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) is adjusted as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). 15. A control device (18) for operating a steering system (2) of a motor vehicle, which control device (18) is provided with a digital computing device (20) configured to
detect, during an autonomous driving mode of a motor vehicle, a driver intervention (40) of a driver of the motor vehicle into a steering means, and operate a superimposition steering system (4) in such a way that a coupling (30) between a steering means angle (26) and an angle (28) which is introduced into the steering gear (14) is adjusted as a function of the detected driver intervention (40). | 3,600 |
13,332 | 13,332 | 14,105,016 | 3,624 | A method for inferring inconvenient travel experiences may include analyzing, with a processing device, a record of a displacement of a traveler, detecting a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience, verifying a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience, and validating an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status. | 1. A method for inferring inconvenient travel experiences, comprising:
analyzing, with a processing device, a record of a displacement of a traveler; detecting a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience; verifying a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience; and validating an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
tracing a sequence of locations of the traveler during a time period; and storing the sequence, wherein the displacement is derived from the sequence. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein verifying the transport network status further comprises querying a database associated with the transport network regarding the transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
aggregating a plurality of inferred inconveniences corresponding to the transport network; and extracting a performance indication based on the aggregate inferred inconveniences. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing status information associated with a plurality of transport networks. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the traveler displacement pattern is indicative of a failed attempt to hire a vehicle, a failed attempt to park a vehicle, or a missed transport connection. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the traveler displacement pattern is indicative of an excessive waiting time associated with a transport connection, hiring a vehicle, or parking a vehicle. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising estimating a satisfaction level of the traveler based at least in part on the inferred inconvenience. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
evaluating a plurality of alternative journey plans; and determining a preference for a journey plan based on a probability of an inconvenient experience. 10. A system for inferring inconvenient travel experiences, comprising:
an inconvenient experience identifier configured to analyze a record of a displacement of a traveler and detect a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience; and an inconvenient experience validator configured to verify a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience and validate an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status. 11. The system of claim 10, further comprising a location history store configured to store a sequence of locations of the traveler during a time period, wherein the displacement is derived from the sequence. 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the inconvenient experience validator is further configured to query a database associated with the transport network regarding the transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience. 13. The system of claim 10, further comprising a performance indication extractor configured to aggregate a plurality of inferred inconveniences corresponding to the transport network and extract a performance indication based on the aggregate inferred inconveniences. 14. The system of claim 10, further comprising a transport network status store configured to store status information associated with a plurality of transport networks. 15. The system of claim 10, further comprising a traveler satisfaction estimator configured to estimate a satisfaction level of the traveler based at least in part on the inferred inconvenience. 16. The system of claim 10, further comprising an alternative journey plan evaluator configured to evaluate a plurality of alternative journey plans and determine a preference for a journey plan based on a probability of an inconvenient experience. 17. A computer program product for inferring inconvenient travel experiences, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable storage medium having program code embodied therewith, the program code executable by a computer to implement: analyzing a record of a displacement of a traveler; detecting a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience; verifying a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience; and validating an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status. 18. The computer program product of claim 17, the program code being further executable by a computer to implement:
aggregating a plurality of inferred inconveniences corresponding to the transport network; and extracting a performance indication based on the aggregate inferred inconveniences. 19. The computer program product of claim 17, the program code being further executable by a computer to implement estimating a satisfaction level of the traveler based at least in part on the inferred inconvenience 20. The computer program product of claim 17, the program code being further executable by a computer to implement optimizing a transport network based on a probability of an inconvenient experience. | A method for inferring inconvenient travel experiences may include analyzing, with a processing device, a record of a displacement of a traveler, detecting a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience, verifying a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience, and validating an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status.1. A method for inferring inconvenient travel experiences, comprising:
analyzing, with a processing device, a record of a displacement of a traveler; detecting a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience; verifying a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience; and validating an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
tracing a sequence of locations of the traveler during a time period; and storing the sequence, wherein the displacement is derived from the sequence. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein verifying the transport network status further comprises querying a database associated with the transport network regarding the transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
aggregating a plurality of inferred inconveniences corresponding to the transport network; and extracting a performance indication based on the aggregate inferred inconveniences. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing status information associated with a plurality of transport networks. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the traveler displacement pattern is indicative of a failed attempt to hire a vehicle, a failed attempt to park a vehicle, or a missed transport connection. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the traveler displacement pattern is indicative of an excessive waiting time associated with a transport connection, hiring a vehicle, or parking a vehicle. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising estimating a satisfaction level of the traveler based at least in part on the inferred inconvenience. 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
evaluating a plurality of alternative journey plans; and determining a preference for a journey plan based on a probability of an inconvenient experience. 10. A system for inferring inconvenient travel experiences, comprising:
an inconvenient experience identifier configured to analyze a record of a displacement of a traveler and detect a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience; and an inconvenient experience validator configured to verify a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience and validate an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status. 11. The system of claim 10, further comprising a location history store configured to store a sequence of locations of the traveler during a time period, wherein the displacement is derived from the sequence. 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the inconvenient experience validator is further configured to query a database associated with the transport network regarding the transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience. 13. The system of claim 10, further comprising a performance indication extractor configured to aggregate a plurality of inferred inconveniences corresponding to the transport network and extract a performance indication based on the aggregate inferred inconveniences. 14. The system of claim 10, further comprising a transport network status store configured to store status information associated with a plurality of transport networks. 15. The system of claim 10, further comprising a traveler satisfaction estimator configured to estimate a satisfaction level of the traveler based at least in part on the inferred inconvenience. 16. The system of claim 10, further comprising an alternative journey plan evaluator configured to evaluate a plurality of alternative journey plans and determine a preference for a journey plan based on a probability of an inconvenient experience. 17. A computer program product for inferring inconvenient travel experiences, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable storage medium having program code embodied therewith, the program code executable by a computer to implement: analyzing a record of a displacement of a traveler; detecting a traveler displacement pattern indicative of a potential inconvenience; verifying a transport network status corresponding to the potential inconvenience; and validating an inferred inconvenience based on the potential inconvenience and the transport network status. 18. The computer program product of claim 17, the program code being further executable by a computer to implement:
aggregating a plurality of inferred inconveniences corresponding to the transport network; and extracting a performance indication based on the aggregate inferred inconveniences. 19. The computer program product of claim 17, the program code being further executable by a computer to implement estimating a satisfaction level of the traveler based at least in part on the inferred inconvenience 20. The computer program product of claim 17, the program code being further executable by a computer to implement optimizing a transport network based on a probability of an inconvenient experience. | 3,600 |
13,333 | 13,333 | 12,824,701 | 3,624 | A social network of service provider and service recipient teams, which in turn is analyzed from a global perspective of the provider organization, that is, the representation and analysis and recommendations are internally driven by a service provider organization. Informal and formal relationships alike can be noted in the network representation. The nodes in the networks are team members from the provider and client organizations. The key decision makers in the client organizations are marked out in the graph. Each client node has an orientation which reflects whether the person has a positive orientation or negative orientation overall, globally and at a current point in time, towards the service provider organization. The client organization and the internal relationships can initially be assumed to be embodied by formal and functional relationships that are already well known and established, and yet can be adapted at later times. | 1. A method comprising:
representing supplier nodes in a network representation; representing client nodes in a network representation; establishing a supplier-client relationship in the network representation; assigning a score to the supplier-client relationship, the score corresponding to relationship strength; assigning a score to a client node, the client node score corresponding to a general relationship strength with respect to the supplier nodes in aggregate; and amending the supplier-client relationship score after a predetermined time period. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein said representing of client nodes comprises representing key client nodes. 3. The method according to claim 2, wherein said representing of key client nodes comprises representing nodes corresponding to a higher hierarchy level than other client nodes in a client organization. 4. The method according to claim 2, further comprising applying a coverage metric to a supplier node with respect to a relationship of the supplier node to key client nodes in aggregate. 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the coverage metric represents the proportion of key client nodes with which a supplier node has an established direct or indirect relationship. 6. The method according to claim 2, further comprising applying a coverage metric to the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to a relationship of the supplier nodes to key client nodes in aggregate. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein said assigning of a score to the supplier-client relationship further comprises appending a positive or negative orientation to the score of the supplier-client relationship. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein said assigning of a score to a client node comprises appending a positive or negative orientation to the score of the client node. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein said amending is performed among supplier nodes solely by the supplier node in the supplier-client relationship. 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein said amending is further performed by a client node in the supplier-client relationship. 11. The method according to claim 1, further comprising determining a fault tolerance metric for a supplier node with respect to one or more client nodes. 12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising determining a fault tolerance metric for the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to one or more client nodes. 13. An apparatus comprising:
one or more processors; and a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied therewith and executable by the one or more processors, the computer readable program code comprising: computer readable program code configured to represent supplier nodes in a network representation; computer readable program code configured to represent client nodes in a network representation; computer readable program code configured to establish a supplier-client relationship in the network representation; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to the supplier-client relationship, the score corresponding to relationship strength; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to a client node, the client node score corresponding to a general relationship strength with respect to the supplier nodes in aggregate; and computer readable program code configured to amend the supplier-client relationship score after a predetermined time period. 14. A computer program product comprising:
a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied therewith, the computer readable program code comprising: computer readable program code configured to represent client nodes in a network representation; computer readable program code configured to establish a supplier-client relationship in the network representation; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to the supplier-client relationship, the score corresponding to relationship strength; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to a client node, the client node score corresponding to a general relationship strength with respect to the supplier nodes in aggregate; and computer readable program code configured to amend the supplier-client relationship score after a predetermined time period. 15. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is configured to represent key client nodes among the client nodes. 16. The computer program product according to claim 15, wherein said computer readable program code is configured to represent key client nodes which correspond to a higher hierarchy level than other client nodes in a client organization. 17. The computer program product according to claim 15, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to apply a coverage metric to a supplier node with respect to relationship of the supplier node to key client nodes in aggregate. 18. The computer program product according to claim 17, wherein the coverage metric represents the proportion of key client nodes with which a supplier node has an established direct or indirect relationship. 19. The computer program product according to claim 15, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to apply a coverage metric to the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to a relationship of the supplier nodes to key client nodes in aggregate. 20. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to append a positive or negative orientation to the score of the supplier-client relationship. 21. The computer program product according to claim 20, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to append a positive or negative orientation to the score of the client node. 22. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is configured to permit amending among supplier nodes solely by the supplier node in the supplier-client relationship. 23. The computer program product according to claim 22, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to permit amending by a client node in the supplier-client relationship. 24. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to determine a fault tolerance metric for a supplier node with respect to one or more client nodes. 25. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to determine a fault tolerance metric for the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to one or more client nodes. | A social network of service provider and service recipient teams, which in turn is analyzed from a global perspective of the provider organization, that is, the representation and analysis and recommendations are internally driven by a service provider organization. Informal and formal relationships alike can be noted in the network representation. The nodes in the networks are team members from the provider and client organizations. The key decision makers in the client organizations are marked out in the graph. Each client node has an orientation which reflects whether the person has a positive orientation or negative orientation overall, globally and at a current point in time, towards the service provider organization. The client organization and the internal relationships can initially be assumed to be embodied by formal and functional relationships that are already well known and established, and yet can be adapted at later times.1. A method comprising:
representing supplier nodes in a network representation; representing client nodes in a network representation; establishing a supplier-client relationship in the network representation; assigning a score to the supplier-client relationship, the score corresponding to relationship strength; assigning a score to a client node, the client node score corresponding to a general relationship strength with respect to the supplier nodes in aggregate; and amending the supplier-client relationship score after a predetermined time period. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein said representing of client nodes comprises representing key client nodes. 3. The method according to claim 2, wherein said representing of key client nodes comprises representing nodes corresponding to a higher hierarchy level than other client nodes in a client organization. 4. The method according to claim 2, further comprising applying a coverage metric to a supplier node with respect to a relationship of the supplier node to key client nodes in aggregate. 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the coverage metric represents the proportion of key client nodes with which a supplier node has an established direct or indirect relationship. 6. The method according to claim 2, further comprising applying a coverage metric to the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to a relationship of the supplier nodes to key client nodes in aggregate. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein said assigning of a score to the supplier-client relationship further comprises appending a positive or negative orientation to the score of the supplier-client relationship. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein said assigning of a score to a client node comprises appending a positive or negative orientation to the score of the client node. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein said amending is performed among supplier nodes solely by the supplier node in the supplier-client relationship. 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein said amending is further performed by a client node in the supplier-client relationship. 11. The method according to claim 1, further comprising determining a fault tolerance metric for a supplier node with respect to one or more client nodes. 12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising determining a fault tolerance metric for the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to one or more client nodes. 13. An apparatus comprising:
one or more processors; and a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied therewith and executable by the one or more processors, the computer readable program code comprising: computer readable program code configured to represent supplier nodes in a network representation; computer readable program code configured to represent client nodes in a network representation; computer readable program code configured to establish a supplier-client relationship in the network representation; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to the supplier-client relationship, the score corresponding to relationship strength; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to a client node, the client node score corresponding to a general relationship strength with respect to the supplier nodes in aggregate; and computer readable program code configured to amend the supplier-client relationship score after a predetermined time period. 14. A computer program product comprising:
a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program code embodied therewith, the computer readable program code comprising: computer readable program code configured to represent client nodes in a network representation; computer readable program code configured to establish a supplier-client relationship in the network representation; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to the supplier-client relationship, the score corresponding to relationship strength; computer readable program code configured to assign a score to a client node, the client node score corresponding to a general relationship strength with respect to the supplier nodes in aggregate; and computer readable program code configured to amend the supplier-client relationship score after a predetermined time period. 15. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is configured to represent key client nodes among the client nodes. 16. The computer program product according to claim 15, wherein said computer readable program code is configured to represent key client nodes which correspond to a higher hierarchy level than other client nodes in a client organization. 17. The computer program product according to claim 15, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to apply a coverage metric to a supplier node with respect to relationship of the supplier node to key client nodes in aggregate. 18. The computer program product according to claim 17, wherein the coverage metric represents the proportion of key client nodes with which a supplier node has an established direct or indirect relationship. 19. The computer program product according to claim 15, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to apply a coverage metric to the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to a relationship of the supplier nodes to key client nodes in aggregate. 20. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to append a positive or negative orientation to the score of the supplier-client relationship. 21. The computer program product according to claim 20, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to append a positive or negative orientation to the score of the client node. 22. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is configured to permit amending among supplier nodes solely by the supplier node in the supplier-client relationship. 23. The computer program product according to claim 22, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to permit amending by a client node in the supplier-client relationship. 24. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to determine a fault tolerance metric for a supplier node with respect to one or more client nodes. 25. The computer program product according to claim 14, wherein said computer readable program code is further configured to determine a fault tolerance metric for the supplier nodes in aggregate with respect to one or more client nodes. | 3,600 |
13,334 | 13,334 | 13,909,626 | 3,692 | A variety of techniques are described herein for facilitating group funding in a network computing environment. | 1. A group funding application programming interface (API), comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer program instructions stored therein which, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause the one or more computing devices to:
create a group funding campaign by which a population of users can contribute payments using client devices operating in a computing network; select one or more payment processors from among a plurality of payment processors operating in the computing network to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments contributed by the users; specify a tilt amount that triggers charging of authorized ones of the payments via the computing network when a total of the authorized payments meets or exceeds the tilt amount; and specify a reauthorization mechanism by which one or more of the authorized payments are reauthorized via the computing network after expiration of the one or more authorized payments. 2. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to select a payment type for the payments from among a fixed payment, a minimum payment, or a contributor-specified payment. 3. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are configured to cause the one or more computing devices to select multiple payment processors from among the plurality of payment processors to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments for the campaign. 4. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to create one or more additional group funding campaigns that are also supported by one or more of the payment processors. 5. The group funding API of claim 4, wherein creation of the group funding campaign and creation of the one or more additional group funding campaigns are initiated by the same user. 6. The group funding API of claim 4, wherein the group funding campaign and the one or more additional group funding campaigns are independent. 7. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the reauthorization mechanism initiates reauthorization of each expired authorized payment within a period of time during which it is statistically unlikely that reauthorization will be denied. 8. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to specify a dynamic pricing policy by which a specified payment amount for the campaign varies according to one or more parameters. 9. The group funding API of claim 8, wherein the one or more parameters include one or more of time, previous contributions, or number of contributors. 10. The group funding API of claim 8, wherein the dynamic pricing policy specifies different payment amounts according to one or more triggers. 11. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to specify an expiration of the campaign, wherein the expiration of the campaign corresponds to expiration of a specified time period or a total of the payments meeting or exceeding a specified amount. 12. The group funding API of claim 11, wherein the specified amount is higher than the tilt amount. 13. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to cancel the authorized payments if the tilt amount is not met or exceeded by the total of the authorized payments during the campaign. 14. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the group funding API is compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. 15. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to facilitate release of the payments to an intermediate account using a first payment mode supported by one of the one or more selected payment processors, and to facilitate release of the payments within the intermediate account via a second payment mode. 16. The group funding API of claim 15, wherein the campaign administrator specifies the second payment mode. 17. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the group funding API supports Unicode object descriptions, wherein the group funding API supports multiple currencies, and wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to create different language versions of the campaign using the Unicode object descriptions and specifying different ones of the currencies. 18. A group funding system, comprising one or more computing devices configured to use an application programming interface (API) to:
create, via the API, a group funding campaign by which a population of users can contribute payments using client devices operating in a computing network; select, via the API, one or more payment processors from among a plurality of payment processors operating in the computing network to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments contributed by the users; specify, via the API, a tilt amount that triggers charging of authorized ones of the payments via the computing network when a total of the authorized payments meets or exceeds the tilt amount; and specify, via the API, a reauthorization mechanism by which one or more of the authorized payments are reauthorized via the computing network after expiration of the one or more authorized payments. 19. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to select, via the API, a payment type for the payments from among a fixed payment, a minimum payment, or a contributor-specified payment. 20. The group funding system of claim 18, the one or more computing devices are configured to select, via the API, multiple payment processors from among the plurality of payment processors to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments for the campaign. 21. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to create, via the API, one or more additional group funding campaigns that are also supported by one or more of the payment processors. 22. The group funding system of claim 21, wherein creation of the group funding campaign and creation of the one or more additional group funding campaigns are initiated by the same user. 23. The group funding system of claim 21, wherein the group funding campaign and the one or more additional group funding campaigns are independent. 24. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the reauthorization mechanism initiates reauthorization of each expired authorized payment within a period of time during which it is statistically unlikely that reauthorization will be denied. 25. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to specify, via the API, a dynamic pricing policy by which a specified payment amount for the campaign varies according to one or more parameters. 26. The group funding system of claim 25, wherein the one or more parameters include one or more of time, previous contributions, or number of contributors. 27. The group funding system of claim 25, wherein the dynamic pricing policy specifies different payment amounts according to one or more triggers. 28. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to specify, via the API, an expiration of the campaign, wherein the expiration of the campaign corresponds to expiration of a specified time period or a total of the payments meeting or exceeding a specified amount. 29. The group funding system of claim 28, wherein the specified amount is higher than the tilt amount. 30. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to cancel, via the API, the authorized payments if the tilt amount is not met or exceeded by the total of the authorized payments during the campaign. 31. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the group funding system is compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. 32. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to facilitate, via the API, release of the payments to an intermediate account using a first payment mode supported by one of the one or more selected payment processors, and to facilitate, via the API, release of the payments from the intermediate account via a second payment mode. 33. The group funding system of claim 32, wherein the campaign administrator specifies the second payment mode. 34. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the API supports Unicode object descriptions, wherein the API supports multiple currencies, and wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to create, via the API, different language versions of the campaign using the Unicode object descriptions and specifying different ones of the currencies. 35. A computer-implemented method using a group funding application programming interface (API), comprising:
using one or more computing devices, creating, via the API, a group funding campaign by which a population of users can contribute payments using client devices operating in a computing network; using the one or more computing devices, selecting, via the API, one or more payment processors from among a plurality of payment processors operating in the computing network to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments contributed by the users; using the one or more computing devices, specifying, via the API, a tilt amount that triggers charging of authorized ones of the payments via the computing network when a total of the authorized payments meets or exceeds the tilt amount; and using the one or more computing devices, specifying, via the API, a reauthorization mechanism by which one or more of the authorized payments are reauthorized via the computing network after expiration of the one or more authorized payments. 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising selecting, via the API, a payment type for the payments from among a fixed payment, a minimum payment, or a contributor-specified payment. 37. The method of claim 35, wherein selecting the one or more payment processors comprises selecting, via the API, multiple payment processors from among the plurality of payment processors to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments for the campaign. 38. The method of claim 35, further comprising creating, via the API, one or more additional group funding campaigns that are also supported by one or more of the payment processors. 39. The method of claim 38, wherein creation of the group funding campaign and creation of the one or more additional group funding campaigns are initiated by the same user. 40. The method of claim 38, wherein the group funding campaign and the one or more additional group funding campaigns are independent. 41. The method of claim 35, wherein the reauthorization mechanism initiates reauthorization of each expired authorized payment within a period of time during which it is statistically unlikely that reauthorization will be denied. 42. The method of claim 35, further comprising specifying, via the API, a dynamic pricing policy by which a specified payment amount for the campaign varies according to one or more parameters. 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the one or more parameters include one or more of time, previous contributions, or number of contributors. 44. The method of claim 42, wherein the dynamic pricing policy specifies different payment amounts according to one or more triggers. 45. The method of claim 35, further comprising specifying, via the API, an expiration of the campaign, wherein the expiration of the campaign corresponds to expiration of a specified time period or a total of the payments meeting or exceeding a specified amount. 46. The method of claim 45, wherein the specified amount is higher than the tilt amount. 47. The method of claim 35, further comprising canceling, via the API, the authorized payments if the tilt amount is not met or exceeded by the total of the authorized payments during the campaign. 48. The method of claim 35, wherein the method is compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. 49. The method of claim 35, further comprising facilitating, via the API, release of the payments to an intermediate account using a first payment mode supported by one of the one or more selected payment processors, and facilitating, via the API, release of the payments from the intermediate account via a second payment mode. 50. The method of claim 49, wherein the campaign administrator specifies the second payment mode. 51. The method of claim 35, wherein the API supports Unicode object descriptions, and wherein the API supports multiple currencies, the method comprising creating, via the API, different language versions of the campaign using the Unicode object descriptions and specifying different ones of the currencies. | A variety of techniques are described herein for facilitating group funding in a network computing environment.1. A group funding application programming interface (API), comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer program instructions stored therein which, when executed by one or more computing devices, cause the one or more computing devices to:
create a group funding campaign by which a population of users can contribute payments using client devices operating in a computing network; select one or more payment processors from among a plurality of payment processors operating in the computing network to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments contributed by the users; specify a tilt amount that triggers charging of authorized ones of the payments via the computing network when a total of the authorized payments meets or exceeds the tilt amount; and specify a reauthorization mechanism by which one or more of the authorized payments are reauthorized via the computing network after expiration of the one or more authorized payments. 2. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to select a payment type for the payments from among a fixed payment, a minimum payment, or a contributor-specified payment. 3. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are configured to cause the one or more computing devices to select multiple payment processors from among the plurality of payment processors to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments for the campaign. 4. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to create one or more additional group funding campaigns that are also supported by one or more of the payment processors. 5. The group funding API of claim 4, wherein creation of the group funding campaign and creation of the one or more additional group funding campaigns are initiated by the same user. 6. The group funding API of claim 4, wherein the group funding campaign and the one or more additional group funding campaigns are independent. 7. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the reauthorization mechanism initiates reauthorization of each expired authorized payment within a period of time during which it is statistically unlikely that reauthorization will be denied. 8. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to specify a dynamic pricing policy by which a specified payment amount for the campaign varies according to one or more parameters. 9. The group funding API of claim 8, wherein the one or more parameters include one or more of time, previous contributions, or number of contributors. 10. The group funding API of claim 8, wherein the dynamic pricing policy specifies different payment amounts according to one or more triggers. 11. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to specify an expiration of the campaign, wherein the expiration of the campaign corresponds to expiration of a specified time period or a total of the payments meeting or exceeding a specified amount. 12. The group funding API of claim 11, wherein the specified amount is higher than the tilt amount. 13. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to cancel the authorized payments if the tilt amount is not met or exceeded by the total of the authorized payments during the campaign. 14. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the group funding API is compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. 15. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to facilitate release of the payments to an intermediate account using a first payment mode supported by one of the one or more selected payment processors, and to facilitate release of the payments within the intermediate account via a second payment mode. 16. The group funding API of claim 15, wherein the campaign administrator specifies the second payment mode. 17. The group funding API of claim 1, wherein the group funding API supports Unicode object descriptions, wherein the group funding API supports multiple currencies, and wherein the computer program instructions are further configured to cause the one or more computing devices to create different language versions of the campaign using the Unicode object descriptions and specifying different ones of the currencies. 18. A group funding system, comprising one or more computing devices configured to use an application programming interface (API) to:
create, via the API, a group funding campaign by which a population of users can contribute payments using client devices operating in a computing network; select, via the API, one or more payment processors from among a plurality of payment processors operating in the computing network to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments contributed by the users; specify, via the API, a tilt amount that triggers charging of authorized ones of the payments via the computing network when a total of the authorized payments meets or exceeds the tilt amount; and specify, via the API, a reauthorization mechanism by which one or more of the authorized payments are reauthorized via the computing network after expiration of the one or more authorized payments. 19. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to select, via the API, a payment type for the payments from among a fixed payment, a minimum payment, or a contributor-specified payment. 20. The group funding system of claim 18, the one or more computing devices are configured to select, via the API, multiple payment processors from among the plurality of payment processors to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments for the campaign. 21. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to create, via the API, one or more additional group funding campaigns that are also supported by one or more of the payment processors. 22. The group funding system of claim 21, wherein creation of the group funding campaign and creation of the one or more additional group funding campaigns are initiated by the same user. 23. The group funding system of claim 21, wherein the group funding campaign and the one or more additional group funding campaigns are independent. 24. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the reauthorization mechanism initiates reauthorization of each expired authorized payment within a period of time during which it is statistically unlikely that reauthorization will be denied. 25. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to specify, via the API, a dynamic pricing policy by which a specified payment amount for the campaign varies according to one or more parameters. 26. The group funding system of claim 25, wherein the one or more parameters include one or more of time, previous contributions, or number of contributors. 27. The group funding system of claim 25, wherein the dynamic pricing policy specifies different payment amounts according to one or more triggers. 28. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to specify, via the API, an expiration of the campaign, wherein the expiration of the campaign corresponds to expiration of a specified time period or a total of the payments meeting or exceeding a specified amount. 29. The group funding system of claim 28, wherein the specified amount is higher than the tilt amount. 30. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to cancel, via the API, the authorized payments if the tilt amount is not met or exceeded by the total of the authorized payments during the campaign. 31. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the group funding system is compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. 32. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to facilitate, via the API, release of the payments to an intermediate account using a first payment mode supported by one of the one or more selected payment processors, and to facilitate, via the API, release of the payments from the intermediate account via a second payment mode. 33. The group funding system of claim 32, wherein the campaign administrator specifies the second payment mode. 34. The group funding system of claim 18, wherein the API supports Unicode object descriptions, wherein the API supports multiple currencies, and wherein the one or more computing devices are further configured to create, via the API, different language versions of the campaign using the Unicode object descriptions and specifying different ones of the currencies. 35. A computer-implemented method using a group funding application programming interface (API), comprising:
using one or more computing devices, creating, via the API, a group funding campaign by which a population of users can contribute payments using client devices operating in a computing network; using the one or more computing devices, selecting, via the API, one or more payment processors from among a plurality of payment processors operating in the computing network to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments contributed by the users; using the one or more computing devices, specifying, via the API, a tilt amount that triggers charging of authorized ones of the payments via the computing network when a total of the authorized payments meets or exceeds the tilt amount; and using the one or more computing devices, specifying, via the API, a reauthorization mechanism by which one or more of the authorized payments are reauthorized via the computing network after expiration of the one or more authorized payments. 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising selecting, via the API, a payment type for the payments from among a fixed payment, a minimum payment, or a contributor-specified payment. 37. The method of claim 35, wherein selecting the one or more payment processors comprises selecting, via the API, multiple payment processors from among the plurality of payment processors to facilitate authorization and charging of the payments for the campaign. 38. The method of claim 35, further comprising creating, via the API, one or more additional group funding campaigns that are also supported by one or more of the payment processors. 39. The method of claim 38, wherein creation of the group funding campaign and creation of the one or more additional group funding campaigns are initiated by the same user. 40. The method of claim 38, wherein the group funding campaign and the one or more additional group funding campaigns are independent. 41. The method of claim 35, wherein the reauthorization mechanism initiates reauthorization of each expired authorized payment within a period of time during which it is statistically unlikely that reauthorization will be denied. 42. The method of claim 35, further comprising specifying, via the API, a dynamic pricing policy by which a specified payment amount for the campaign varies according to one or more parameters. 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the one or more parameters include one or more of time, previous contributions, or number of contributors. 44. The method of claim 42, wherein the dynamic pricing policy specifies different payment amounts according to one or more triggers. 45. The method of claim 35, further comprising specifying, via the API, an expiration of the campaign, wherein the expiration of the campaign corresponds to expiration of a specified time period or a total of the payments meeting or exceeding a specified amount. 46. The method of claim 45, wherein the specified amount is higher than the tilt amount. 47. The method of claim 35, further comprising canceling, via the API, the authorized payments if the tilt amount is not met or exceeded by the total of the authorized payments during the campaign. 48. The method of claim 35, wherein the method is compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. 49. The method of claim 35, further comprising facilitating, via the API, release of the payments to an intermediate account using a first payment mode supported by one of the one or more selected payment processors, and facilitating, via the API, release of the payments from the intermediate account via a second payment mode. 50. The method of claim 49, wherein the campaign administrator specifies the second payment mode. 51. The method of claim 35, wherein the API supports Unicode object descriptions, and wherein the API supports multiple currencies, the method comprising creating, via the API, different language versions of the campaign using the Unicode object descriptions and specifying different ones of the currencies. | 3,600 |
13,335 | 13,335 | 14,351,561 | 3,626 | Methods for determining the likelihood that a subject will be a placebo responder in a clinical study are provided. Also provided are methods for eliminating likely placebo responders from a clinical study a priori, thereby simplifying data analysis and minimizing or eliminating any confound that arises in the analysis as a result of placebo response. Databases and computer systems using the methods are also disclosed herein. Methods for assessing likelihood of a subject experiencing a response shift are also provided. | 1. A method of selecting participants for a biomedical or health-related research study (“clinical trial”) comprising the steps of:
(a) establishing at least one inclusion and/or exclusion criterion for the study that encompasses a measure of a prospective participant's propensity to respond to placebo treatment;
(b) eliminating, a priori, from the study any prospective participant who does not meet the required criteria for inclusion or exclusion;
wherein the measure of propensity to respond to placebo treatment comprises an assessment of the adaptability of the prospective participant's perception of their bodily self-image. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein:
(a) an exclusion criterion excludes prospective participants who have the ability, in a specified assessment, to shift their perception of their bodily self-image:
(i) within specified time(s);
(ii) within relative time(s) based on the times for all prospective participants for the study;
(iii) within time(s), percentage(s) or other measure(s) determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people; and/or
(iv) to a specific extent, or within a range of extents as compared to all prospective participants for the study, or as determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people; or
(b) an inclusion criterion requires that, in a specified assessment, prospective participants do not shift their perception of their bodily self-image
(i) faster than a specified time;
(ii) faster than a relative time based on the times for all prospective participants for the study;
(iii) faster than a defined time, or within a percentage, or other measure determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people; and/or
(iv) to a specific extent, or within a range of extents as compared to all prospective participants for the study, or as determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the assessment of adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image for a prospective participant comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox is at least partially created using electronic equipment, a computer processor, or a digital medium. 5. The method of claim 3 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are simultaneously or nearly simultaneously stimulated as part of the paradox. 7. The method of claim 6 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 8. The method of claim 7 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises a simulated or artificial body or body part; stimulation of the visual sense comprises allowing the prospective participant to view the simulated or artificial body or body part; and stimulation of the somatosensory sense comprises simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body or body part and the corresponding actual body or body part of the prospective participant. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the simulated or artificial body or body part:
a) is lifelike and presents a less extreme paradox to the prospective participant's perception; or
b) is not lifelike and presents a more extreme paradox to the prospective participant's perception. 10. A method for determining the likelihood that a candidate for a biomedical or health-related research study (“clinical trial”) will respond to a placebo used in the clinical trial, the method comprising the steps of assessing adaptability of the candidate's perception of bodily self image; and determining a likelihood that the candidate will respond favorably to a placebo based on the candidate's response to the assessment. 11. The method of claim 10 wherein the candidate is otherwise qualified to be a participant in the clinical trial based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the clinical trial. 12. The method of claim 10 wherein likelihood of being a placebo responder can be used as an additional criterion for inclusion in or exclusion from the study. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of assessing the adaptability of the candidate's perception of bodily-self image comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the sensory paradox is at least partially created using a digital medium or a computer processor. 16. The method of claim 14 wherein the sensory paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are each stimulated as part of the paradox. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the visual and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. 18. The method of claim 16 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 19. The method of claim 10 wherein the likelihood that the candidate will respond to a placebo is a function of the time, duration, intensity and/or extent or any combination thereof, of the candidate's response to the assessment. 20. The method of claim 10 wherein the candidate's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure. 21. The method of claim 20 wherein the objective measure comprises a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 22. The method of claim 20 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or by measuring evoked potentials. 23. A collection of data comprising, for each of a plurality of people, data based on or obtained during an assessment of the adaptability of the person's perception of their bodily self-image. 24. The collection of data of claim 23 wherein the assessment of adaptability of the person's perception of their bodily self-image comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 25. The collection of data of claim 24 wherein the data comprise one or more of the time, intensity, duration, or any combination thereof, of the candidate's response to the assessment. 26. The collection of data of claim 24 wherein the data comprise an objective measure of neurological activity, brain activity, or skin conductance related to an assessment of a person's perception of their bodily self-image. 27. A computerized system comprising:
a collection of data comprising, for each of a plurality of people, data based on or obtained during an assessment of the adaptability of the person's perception of their bodily self-image, one or more data structures for arranging the data, one or more data storage devices for storing the data, a database management system adapted for managing the collection of data, and one or more computers, servers, terminals, or networks for accessing the database management system, data structures, or data, wherein the data are arranged according to the one or more data structures and stored at least temporarily on one or more data storage devices; and wherein the database management system, and one or more of the computers, servers, terminals, or networks are in data communication with each other and/or the data. 28. The computerized system of claim 27 further comprising a set of inclusion or exclusion criteria for a clinical trial, at least one criterion therein based on the collection of data. 29. A method of measuring a person's propensity to respond to administration of a placebo during a clinical trial comprising the steps of measuring (a) the time required for the person to experience a shift in perception of bodily self-image in response to a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising a visual paradox and stimulation at least one other sense, and/or (b) the extent of such a shift; and establishing that the time to shift and/or the extent of the shift are indicative of propensity to respond to the placebo. 30. The method of claim 29 wherein the other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 31. The method of claim 30 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises simultaneously or nearly simultaneously stimulating the person's visual and somatosensory senses. 32. The method of claim 29 wherein the propensity to respond to placebo administration is inversely related to the time required to shift perception of bodily self-image. 33. The method of claim 30 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual part of the person's body, stimulation of the visual sense comprises allowing the person to view the simulated or artificial body or body part, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense comprises simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the corresponding actual body part. 34. The method of claim 33 wherein the actual part of the person's body is not in the person's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the person. 35. The method of claim 29 wherein a shift in perception of bodily self-image is determined by a psychological measure or a physiological measure. 36. The method of claim 29 wherein a shift in perception of bodily self-image is determined subjectively by oral self-reporting by the person, or by answers to a paper and pencil assessment of the paradox. 37. The method of claim 29 wherein a shift in perception of bodily self-image is determined by an objective measure of neurological activity, brain activity, or skin conductance. 38. The method of claim 37 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR) or an equivalent thereof, electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or by measuring evoked potentials. 39. A method of improving data analysis for data from a clinical trial for a therapeutic treatment comprising the steps of:
(a) obtaining a set of raw clinical data; (b) evaluating the raw clinical data by standard methods to generate preliminary results; (c) obtaining the identity for each participant in the trial (i.e. unblinding the data); (d) assessing the adaptability each participant's perception of their bodily self-image; (e) determining which participants have readily adaptable body images; (f) creating a modified clinical data set by modifying the raw clinical data to identify, eliminate, or statistically adjust data pertaining to those participants determined to have readily adaptable perceptions of their bodily self-images; (g) evaluating the modified clinical data to generate modified results; and optionally, (h) using the modified data or modified results in connection with seeking approval for the therapeutic treatment from a regulatory agency. 40. The method of claim 39 further comprising the step of comparing the preliminary results and the modified results to generate a comparison, and optionally using the comparison in connection with seeking approval from a regulatory agency. 41. The method of claim 39 wherein the steps of assessing the adaptability each participant's perception of bodily self-image and determining which participants have readily adaptable perceptions of bodily self-image comprise one or more of a sensory-perceptual paradox involving at least two senses, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, a simulated or artificial body or body part; or a psychological or physiological measure of a shift in perception of bodily self-image perception. 42. A method of identifying subjects for a therapeutic treatment based on their propensity to respond favorably to a placebo treatment, the method comprising the step of measuring the ease with which the subject can experience a shift in their perception of bodily self-image; wherein the more easily a subject can shift their bodily self-image, the better subject they will be for the therapeutic treatment. 43. The method of claim 42 wherein the ease with which a subject can experience a shift in the perception of bodily self-image is a function of the time required for the subject to experience a given shift, the duration of the shift experienced, or the intensity or extent of the shift experienced. 44. The method of claim 42 wherein the subject is presented with a sensory-perceptual paradox, and the ease with which the subject can experience a shift in the perception of bodily self-image is a function of the degree of paradox presented to the subject. 45. The method of claim 44 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the subject to view a simulated or artificial body or body part, and stimulation of the somatosensory by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the corresponding actual body part of the subject. 46. The method of claim 45 wherein the subject's corresponding actual body part is not in the subject's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the subject. 47. The method of claim 45 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body or body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body or body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 48. The method of claim 42 wherein the therapeutic treatment comprises a modified or reduced dosing regimen, a modified or reduced time of therapeutic treatment, a therapeutic treatment with fewer side effects than a standard of care therapy, an alternative to a standard of care therapy, or a placebo. 49. The method of claim 42 wherein the subject is suffering from a health-related condition comprising anxiety, an anxiety-related disorder, depression, a depression-related disorder, a neuropathy, or chronic pain, and wherein the therapeutic treatment is for treating said condition. 50. A method of determining, in patients with declining health, a propensity to experience a response shift, the method comprising the steps of assessing adaptability of the patient's perception of bodily self-image; and determining the candidate's propensity to experience a response shift, based on the assessment. 51. The method of claim 50 wherein the patient suffers from one or more of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, progressive degeneration of any physical or mental function, or low perceived quality of life. 52. The method of claim 50 wherein the patient is suffering from a terminal, chronic, progressive, or degenerative disease or condition. 53. The method of claim 52 wherein the disease or condition causes an impairment or loss of function of the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, brain, heart, lungs, circulatory system, bones, joints, pancreas, kidneys, immune system, or any combination thereof. 54. The method of claim 52 wherein the patient has a terminal cancer, a neurodegenerative condition, a spinocerebellar ataxia, an encephalopathy, or other condition causing cerebellar degeneration, congestive heart failure, a muscular dystrophy, cirrhosis of the liver, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other form of arthritis, diabetes mellitus, emphysema, macular degeneration, or glomerulonephritis. 55. The method of claim 50 wherein the step of assessing adaptability of the patient's perception of bodily self-image comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 56. The method of claim 50 wherein the step of assessing adaptability of the patient's perception of bodily self-image comprises presenting the patient with a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery. 57. The method of claim 56 wherein the sensory paradox is at least partially created using a digital medium or a computer processor. 58. The method of claim 56 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are each stimulated as part of the paradox. 59. The method of claim 58 wherein the visual and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. 60. The method of claim 58 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 61. The method of claim 50 wherein the propensity for the patient to experience a response shift is a function of the time, duration, intensity and/or extent or any combination thereof, of the candidate's response to the assessment, or a function of the degree of paradox presented to the patient. 62. The method of claim 50 the patient's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure. 63. The method of claim 62 wherein the objective measure comprises a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 64. The method of claim 62 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or by measuring evoked potentials. 65. The method of claim 60 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the patient to view a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual body or body part of the patient, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body or body part and the patient's corresponding actual body or body part. 66. The method of claim 65 wherein the patient's corresponding actual body or body part is not in the patient's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the patient. 67. The method of claim 65 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 68. A method of selecting a course of therapy for a patient suffering from a terminal, chronic, progressive, or degenerative disease or condition, the method comprising the steps of:
determining which courses of therapy provide an option that might produce a desirable outcome for the patient; for each option, considering the likelihood that the course of therapy will extend the life of the patient, alleviate the suffering of the patient, or otherwise improve the patient's physical or psychological situation; assessing the likelihood that the patient will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift; determining the cost-effectiveness for each option; considering any other factors relevant to the therapy or patient; and selecting a course of therapy for the patient based on the cost-effectiveness, and the likelihood that the patient will experience a response shift; and optionally, the other factors. 69. The method of claim 68 wherein the step of assessing the likelihood that the patient will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift comprises presenting the patient with a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery, wherein the sensory paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously as part of the paradox. 70. The method of claim 60 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 71. The method of claim 69 wherein the likelihood that the patient will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift is a function of the time, duration, intensity and/or extent, or any combination thereof, of the patient's response to the assessment, or a function of the degree of paradox presented to the patient. 72. The method of claim 68 wherein the patient's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure comprising a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 73. The method of claim 72 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS), or by measuring evoked potentials. 74. The method of claim 69 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the patient to view a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual body or body part, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the corresponding actual body or body part, wherein the corresponding actual body or body part is not in the patient's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the patient. 75. The method of claim 71 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body or body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body or body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 76. A method of conducting a quality of life (QOL) study comprising the steps of:
providing a plurality of subjects for the study; for each subject:
providing over time a QOL assessment on each of a plurality, p, of occasions to obtain assessment data;
determining a score or scores for each such QOL assessment;
determining from the score or scores a baseline QOL response(s), based on the subject's score or scores for an initial number, n, of such occasions; such that p is much greater than n;
monitoring the subject's score or scores for each subsequent QOL assessment for unexpected deviations from the baseline QOL response; wherein an unexpected deviation is defined as part of the study;
ascertaining whether there are any known factors that may explain the unexpected deviation from the subject's baseline QOL response;
if there are no ascertainable factors that explain the unexpected deviation from the subject's baseline QOL response, assessing the propensity of a subject to experience an improved QOL due to a response shift; and
determining from the testing whether the subject shows a propensity to experience a response shift;
eliminating from the QOL study assessment data from subjects who are determined to show a propensity to experience an improved QOL due to a response shift; completing the QOL study and analyzing the results thereof without the eliminated assessment data. 77. The method of claim 76 wherein the step of assessing the propensity of a subject to experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift comprises presenting the subject with a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery, wherein the sensory paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously as part of the paradox. 78. The method of claim 77 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 79. The method of claim 77 wherein the likelihood that the subject will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift is a function of the time, intensity, duration, or any combination thereof, of the subject's response to the assessment, or a function of the degree of paradox presented to the subject. 80. The method of claim 77 wherein the subject's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure comprising a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 81. The method of claim 80 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS), or by measuring evoked potentials. 82. The method of claim 78 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the subject to view a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual body part of the subject, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the subject's corresponding actual body part, wherein the corresponding actual body part is not in the subject's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the subject. 83. The method of claim 82 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 84. A method for predicting that an individual is likely to be a placebo responder or is likely to experience a response shift, the method comprising the steps of
obtaining an objective measure of brain activity in the individual, and determining therefrom whether the individual is likely to be a placebo responder or is likely to experience a response shift, wherein the measure of brain activity is correlated with performance in an assessment of adaptability of perception of bodily self-image. 85. The method of claim 84 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS), or by measuring evoked potentials. 86. The method of claim 85 wherein the objective measure is obtained via functional MRI (fMRI), quantitative EEG (QEEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS). 87. A database comprising a collection of data useful for establishing a correlation between the objective measure of brain activity and an assessment of adaptability of perception of bodily self-image. | Methods for determining the likelihood that a subject will be a placebo responder in a clinical study are provided. Also provided are methods for eliminating likely placebo responders from a clinical study a priori, thereby simplifying data analysis and minimizing or eliminating any confound that arises in the analysis as a result of placebo response. Databases and computer systems using the methods are also disclosed herein. Methods for assessing likelihood of a subject experiencing a response shift are also provided.1. A method of selecting participants for a biomedical or health-related research study (“clinical trial”) comprising the steps of:
(a) establishing at least one inclusion and/or exclusion criterion for the study that encompasses a measure of a prospective participant's propensity to respond to placebo treatment;
(b) eliminating, a priori, from the study any prospective participant who does not meet the required criteria for inclusion or exclusion;
wherein the measure of propensity to respond to placebo treatment comprises an assessment of the adaptability of the prospective participant's perception of their bodily self-image. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein:
(a) an exclusion criterion excludes prospective participants who have the ability, in a specified assessment, to shift their perception of their bodily self-image:
(i) within specified time(s);
(ii) within relative time(s) based on the times for all prospective participants for the study;
(iii) within time(s), percentage(s) or other measure(s) determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people; and/or
(iv) to a specific extent, or within a range of extents as compared to all prospective participants for the study, or as determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people; or
(b) an inclusion criterion requires that, in a specified assessment, prospective participants do not shift their perception of their bodily self-image
(i) faster than a specified time;
(ii) faster than a relative time based on the times for all prospective participants for the study;
(iii) faster than a defined time, or within a percentage, or other measure determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people; and/or
(iv) to a specific extent, or within a range of extents as compared to all prospective participants for the study, or as determined from a database comprising assessment data related to adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image from a plurality of people. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the assessment of adaptability of the perception of bodily self-image for a prospective participant comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox is at least partially created using electronic equipment, a computer processor, or a digital medium. 5. The method of claim 3 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery. 6. The method of claim 5 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are simultaneously or nearly simultaneously stimulated as part of the paradox. 7. The method of claim 6 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 8. The method of claim 7 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises a simulated or artificial body or body part; stimulation of the visual sense comprises allowing the prospective participant to view the simulated or artificial body or body part; and stimulation of the somatosensory sense comprises simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body or body part and the corresponding actual body or body part of the prospective participant. 9. The method of claim 8 wherein the simulated or artificial body or body part:
a) is lifelike and presents a less extreme paradox to the prospective participant's perception; or
b) is not lifelike and presents a more extreme paradox to the prospective participant's perception. 10. A method for determining the likelihood that a candidate for a biomedical or health-related research study (“clinical trial”) will respond to a placebo used in the clinical trial, the method comprising the steps of assessing adaptability of the candidate's perception of bodily self image; and determining a likelihood that the candidate will respond favorably to a placebo based on the candidate's response to the assessment. 11. The method of claim 10 wherein the candidate is otherwise qualified to be a participant in the clinical trial based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the clinical trial. 12. The method of claim 10 wherein likelihood of being a placebo responder can be used as an additional criterion for inclusion in or exclusion from the study. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of assessing the adaptability of the candidate's perception of bodily-self image comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery. 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the sensory paradox is at least partially created using a digital medium or a computer processor. 16. The method of claim 14 wherein the sensory paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are each stimulated as part of the paradox. 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the visual and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. 18. The method of claim 16 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 19. The method of claim 10 wherein the likelihood that the candidate will respond to a placebo is a function of the time, duration, intensity and/or extent or any combination thereof, of the candidate's response to the assessment. 20. The method of claim 10 wherein the candidate's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure. 21. The method of claim 20 wherein the objective measure comprises a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 22. The method of claim 20 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or by measuring evoked potentials. 23. A collection of data comprising, for each of a plurality of people, data based on or obtained during an assessment of the adaptability of the person's perception of their bodily self-image. 24. The collection of data of claim 23 wherein the assessment of adaptability of the person's perception of their bodily self-image comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 25. The collection of data of claim 24 wherein the data comprise one or more of the time, intensity, duration, or any combination thereof, of the candidate's response to the assessment. 26. The collection of data of claim 24 wherein the data comprise an objective measure of neurological activity, brain activity, or skin conductance related to an assessment of a person's perception of their bodily self-image. 27. A computerized system comprising:
a collection of data comprising, for each of a plurality of people, data based on or obtained during an assessment of the adaptability of the person's perception of their bodily self-image, one or more data structures for arranging the data, one or more data storage devices for storing the data, a database management system adapted for managing the collection of data, and one or more computers, servers, terminals, or networks for accessing the database management system, data structures, or data, wherein the data are arranged according to the one or more data structures and stored at least temporarily on one or more data storage devices; and wherein the database management system, and one or more of the computers, servers, terminals, or networks are in data communication with each other and/or the data. 28. The computerized system of claim 27 further comprising a set of inclusion or exclusion criteria for a clinical trial, at least one criterion therein based on the collection of data. 29. A method of measuring a person's propensity to respond to administration of a placebo during a clinical trial comprising the steps of measuring (a) the time required for the person to experience a shift in perception of bodily self-image in response to a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising a visual paradox and stimulation at least one other sense, and/or (b) the extent of such a shift; and establishing that the time to shift and/or the extent of the shift are indicative of propensity to respond to the placebo. 30. The method of claim 29 wherein the other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 31. The method of claim 30 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises simultaneously or nearly simultaneously stimulating the person's visual and somatosensory senses. 32. The method of claim 29 wherein the propensity to respond to placebo administration is inversely related to the time required to shift perception of bodily self-image. 33. The method of claim 30 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual part of the person's body, stimulation of the visual sense comprises allowing the person to view the simulated or artificial body or body part, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense comprises simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the corresponding actual body part. 34. The method of claim 33 wherein the actual part of the person's body is not in the person's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the person. 35. The method of claim 29 wherein a shift in perception of bodily self-image is determined by a psychological measure or a physiological measure. 36. The method of claim 29 wherein a shift in perception of bodily self-image is determined subjectively by oral self-reporting by the person, or by answers to a paper and pencil assessment of the paradox. 37. The method of claim 29 wherein a shift in perception of bodily self-image is determined by an objective measure of neurological activity, brain activity, or skin conductance. 38. The method of claim 37 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR) or an equivalent thereof, electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or by measuring evoked potentials. 39. A method of improving data analysis for data from a clinical trial for a therapeutic treatment comprising the steps of:
(a) obtaining a set of raw clinical data; (b) evaluating the raw clinical data by standard methods to generate preliminary results; (c) obtaining the identity for each participant in the trial (i.e. unblinding the data); (d) assessing the adaptability each participant's perception of their bodily self-image; (e) determining which participants have readily adaptable body images; (f) creating a modified clinical data set by modifying the raw clinical data to identify, eliminate, or statistically adjust data pertaining to those participants determined to have readily adaptable perceptions of their bodily self-images; (g) evaluating the modified clinical data to generate modified results; and optionally, (h) using the modified data or modified results in connection with seeking approval for the therapeutic treatment from a regulatory agency. 40. The method of claim 39 further comprising the step of comparing the preliminary results and the modified results to generate a comparison, and optionally using the comparison in connection with seeking approval from a regulatory agency. 41. The method of claim 39 wherein the steps of assessing the adaptability each participant's perception of bodily self-image and determining which participants have readily adaptable perceptions of bodily self-image comprise one or more of a sensory-perceptual paradox involving at least two senses, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, a simulated or artificial body or body part; or a psychological or physiological measure of a shift in perception of bodily self-image perception. 42. A method of identifying subjects for a therapeutic treatment based on their propensity to respond favorably to a placebo treatment, the method comprising the step of measuring the ease with which the subject can experience a shift in their perception of bodily self-image; wherein the more easily a subject can shift their bodily self-image, the better subject they will be for the therapeutic treatment. 43. The method of claim 42 wherein the ease with which a subject can experience a shift in the perception of bodily self-image is a function of the time required for the subject to experience a given shift, the duration of the shift experienced, or the intensity or extent of the shift experienced. 44. The method of claim 42 wherein the subject is presented with a sensory-perceptual paradox, and the ease with which the subject can experience a shift in the perception of bodily self-image is a function of the degree of paradox presented to the subject. 45. The method of claim 44 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the subject to view a simulated or artificial body or body part, and stimulation of the somatosensory by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the corresponding actual body part of the subject. 46. The method of claim 45 wherein the subject's corresponding actual body part is not in the subject's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the subject. 47. The method of claim 45 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body or body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body or body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 48. The method of claim 42 wherein the therapeutic treatment comprises a modified or reduced dosing regimen, a modified or reduced time of therapeutic treatment, a therapeutic treatment with fewer side effects than a standard of care therapy, an alternative to a standard of care therapy, or a placebo. 49. The method of claim 42 wherein the subject is suffering from a health-related condition comprising anxiety, an anxiety-related disorder, depression, a depression-related disorder, a neuropathy, or chronic pain, and wherein the therapeutic treatment is for treating said condition. 50. A method of determining, in patients with declining health, a propensity to experience a response shift, the method comprising the steps of assessing adaptability of the patient's perception of bodily self-image; and determining the candidate's propensity to experience a response shift, based on the assessment. 51. The method of claim 50 wherein the patient suffers from one or more of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, progressive degeneration of any physical or mental function, or low perceived quality of life. 52. The method of claim 50 wherein the patient is suffering from a terminal, chronic, progressive, or degenerative disease or condition. 53. The method of claim 52 wherein the disease or condition causes an impairment or loss of function of the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, brain, heart, lungs, circulatory system, bones, joints, pancreas, kidneys, immune system, or any combination thereof. 54. The method of claim 52 wherein the patient has a terminal cancer, a neurodegenerative condition, a spinocerebellar ataxia, an encephalopathy, or other condition causing cerebellar degeneration, congestive heart failure, a muscular dystrophy, cirrhosis of the liver, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other form of arthritis, diabetes mellitus, emphysema, macular degeneration, or glomerulonephritis. 55. The method of claim 50 wherein the step of assessing adaptability of the patient's perception of bodily self-image comprises a sensory-perceptual paradox, a computerized assessment tool, a virtual reality effect, an indicia of neurological activity, or an indicia of brain activity. 56. The method of claim 50 wherein the step of assessing adaptability of the patient's perception of bodily self-image comprises presenting the patient with a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery. 57. The method of claim 56 wherein the sensory paradox is at least partially created using a digital medium or a computer processor. 58. The method of claim 56 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are each stimulated as part of the paradox. 59. The method of claim 58 wherein the visual and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. 60. The method of claim 58 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 61. The method of claim 50 wherein the propensity for the patient to experience a response shift is a function of the time, duration, intensity and/or extent or any combination thereof, of the candidate's response to the assessment, or a function of the degree of paradox presented to the patient. 62. The method of claim 50 the patient's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure. 63. The method of claim 62 wherein the objective measure comprises a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 64. The method of claim 62 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or by measuring evoked potentials. 65. The method of claim 60 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the patient to view a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual body or body part of the patient, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body or body part and the patient's corresponding actual body or body part. 66. The method of claim 65 wherein the patient's corresponding actual body or body part is not in the patient's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the patient. 67. The method of claim 65 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 68. A method of selecting a course of therapy for a patient suffering from a terminal, chronic, progressive, or degenerative disease or condition, the method comprising the steps of:
determining which courses of therapy provide an option that might produce a desirable outcome for the patient; for each option, considering the likelihood that the course of therapy will extend the life of the patient, alleviate the suffering of the patient, or otherwise improve the patient's physical or psychological situation; assessing the likelihood that the patient will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift; determining the cost-effectiveness for each option; considering any other factors relevant to the therapy or patient; and selecting a course of therapy for the patient based on the cost-effectiveness, and the likelihood that the patient will experience a response shift; and optionally, the other factors. 69. The method of claim 68 wherein the step of assessing the likelihood that the patient will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift comprises presenting the patient with a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery, wherein the sensory paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously as part of the paradox. 70. The method of claim 60 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 71. The method of claim 69 wherein the likelihood that the patient will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift is a function of the time, duration, intensity and/or extent, or any combination thereof, of the patient's response to the assessment, or a function of the degree of paradox presented to the patient. 72. The method of claim 68 wherein the patient's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure comprising a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 73. The method of claim 72 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS), or by measuring evoked potentials. 74. The method of claim 69 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the patient to view a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual body or body part, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the corresponding actual body or body part, wherein the corresponding actual body or body part is not in the patient's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the patient. 75. The method of claim 71 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body or body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body or body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 76. A method of conducting a quality of life (QOL) study comprising the steps of:
providing a plurality of subjects for the study; for each subject:
providing over time a QOL assessment on each of a plurality, p, of occasions to obtain assessment data;
determining a score or scores for each such QOL assessment;
determining from the score or scores a baseline QOL response(s), based on the subject's score or scores for an initial number, n, of such occasions; such that p is much greater than n;
monitoring the subject's score or scores for each subsequent QOL assessment for unexpected deviations from the baseline QOL response; wherein an unexpected deviation is defined as part of the study;
ascertaining whether there are any known factors that may explain the unexpected deviation from the subject's baseline QOL response;
if there are no ascertainable factors that explain the unexpected deviation from the subject's baseline QOL response, assessing the propensity of a subject to experience an improved QOL due to a response shift; and
determining from the testing whether the subject shows a propensity to experience a response shift;
eliminating from the QOL study assessment data from subjects who are determined to show a propensity to experience an improved QOL due to a response shift; completing the QOL study and analyzing the results thereof without the eliminated assessment data. 77. The method of claim 76 wherein the step of assessing the propensity of a subject to experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift comprises presenting the subject with a sensory-perceptual paradox comprising stimulation of the visual sense, a visual illusion, visual effects, or digital imagery, wherein the sensory paradox involves at least one other sense, wherein the visual sense and other sense are stimulated simultaneously or nearly simultaneously as part of the paradox. 78. The method of claim 77 wherein the at least one other sense is somatosensory or tactile. 79. The method of claim 77 wherein the likelihood that the subject will experience an improved psychological condition due to a response shift is a function of the time, intensity, duration, or any combination thereof, of the subject's response to the assessment, or a function of the degree of paradox presented to the subject. 80. The method of claim 77 wherein the subject's response to the assessment can be determined from an objective measure comprising a measure of neurological activity or brain activity, or an image thereof, or a measure of skin conductance. 81. The method of claim 80 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS), or by measuring evoked potentials. 82. The method of claim 78 wherein the sensory-perceptual paradox comprises stimulation of the visual sense by allowing the subject to view a simulated or artificial body or body part corresponding to an actual body part of the subject, and stimulation of the somatosensory sense by simultaneously touching the simulated or artificial body and the subject's corresponding actual body part, wherein the corresponding actual body part is not in the subject's visual field while the simulated or artificial body or body part is visible to the subject. 83. The method of claim 82 wherein the degree of paradox is a function of how life-like the simulated or artificial body or body part is, wherein the more life-like the simulated body part is the lower the degree of paradox and the less life-like the simulated body part is, the higher the degree of paradox. 84. A method for predicting that an individual is likely to be a placebo responder or is likely to experience a response shift, the method comprising the steps of
obtaining an objective measure of brain activity in the individual, and determining therefrom whether the individual is likely to be a placebo responder or is likely to experience a response shift, wherein the measure of brain activity is correlated with performance in an assessment of adaptability of perception of bodily self-image. 85. The method of claim 84 wherein the objective measure is obtained via skin conductance resonance (SCR), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), electronystagmography (ENG), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS), or by measuring evoked potentials. 86. The method of claim 85 wherein the objective measure is obtained via functional MRI (fMRI), quantitative EEG (QEEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), or superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDS). 87. A database comprising a collection of data useful for establishing a correlation between the objective measure of brain activity and an assessment of adaptability of perception of bodily self-image. | 3,600 |
13,336 | 13,336 | 14,025,399 | 3,664 | A system and method for a consumer-to-merchant electronic negotiation is provided. The method includes receiving a time-limited initial binding offer from a consumer device for purchasing at least one product of choice from at least one merchant of choice responsive of the at least one product displayed on the consumer device and being offered for sale, wherein the initial binding offer includes at least an offered price for the product of choice, the product of choice, and the at least one merchant of choice, wherein the initial offer expires after a predefined timeframe; determining whether the initial binding offer received from the consumer device is a valid offer for the product of choice; analyzing the initial binding offer using at least one first preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generating a time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the initial binding offer. | 1. A method for a consumer-to-merchant electronic negotiation, comprising:
receiving a time-limited initial binding offer from a consumer device for purchasing at least one product of choice from at least one merchant of choice responsive of the at least one product displayed on the consumer device and being offered for sale, wherein the initial binding offer includes at least an offered price for the product of choice, the product of choice, and the at least one merchant of choice, wherein the initial offer expires after a predefined timeframe; determining whether the initial binding offer received from the consumer device is a valid offer for the product of choice; analyzing the initial binding offer using at least one first preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generating a time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the initial binding offer. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving at least one subsequent time-limited offer from the consumer device for the at least one product of choice responsive of the time-limited merchant response; analyzing the at least one subsequent time-limited offer based on at least one second preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generating a subsequent time-limited merchant response from the merchant device respective of the analysis of the at least one second preconfigured rule. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the subsequent time-limited merchant response is any one of: an acceptance of the subsequent time-limited offer, a decline of the subsequent time-limited offer, and one or more subsequent time-limited counter-offers. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are any one of: same rules or different rules. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are dynamically updated by the merchant respective of at least one of: a number of pending offers from consumers, and inventory level of the merchant. 6. The method of claim 3, wherein each of the first and second at least one preconfigured rules may include a price range for a product, a current inventory level of the product, a specific promotion offered by the merchant for the product, and inclusion of one more similar products that may be of interest to a consumer. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein analyzing the initial binding offer further comprising checking if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one first predefined rules. 8. The method of claim 6, wherein analyzing the initial binding offer further comprising checking if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one second predefined rules. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the time-limited merchant response is one of: an acceptance of the initial offer, a decline of the initial offer, and one or more time-limited counter-offers. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprises:
receiving and acknowledging a consumer log on; and receiving a selection of a merchant of choice and a product of choice from the consumer device of the consumer. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprises:
creating a personal score card for each merchant and consumer; ranking the consumer and the merchant based on their past activities and a feedback received from each merchant device and consumer device with respect of their interaction; and presenting the rank of the consumer and the merchant in the consumer and the merchant personal score cards. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
matching between the merchant and the consumer based on at least one of: a score card and a rank. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the initial binding offer further includes billing information of the consumer, wherein the at least one subsequent offer includes a revised offered price, wherein each of the initial offer and the at least one subsequent offer is binding upon acceptance by the merchant device. 14. The method of claim 1, wherein determining whether the initial offer is valid further includes at least one of:
checking if the offered price is within a predefined price range for the product of choice; and checking if the billing information is correct. 15. The method of claim 1, further comprises:
saving in a database information respective of all offers exchanged between the consumer device and the merchant device during the consumer to merchant negotiation. 16. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions for causing one or more processing units to execute the method according to claim 1. 17. A mediatorial server for a consumer-to-merchant electronic negotiation, comprising:
an interface for communicatively connecting a consumer device with at the mediatorial server to receive a time-limited initial binding offer for purchasing at least one product of choice from at least one merchant of choice, wherein the time-limited initial binding offer is generated responsive of the at least one product displayed on the consumer device and offered for sale, wherein the initial binding offer includes at least an offered price for the product of choice, the product of choice, and the at least one merchant of choice, wherein the initial offer expires after a predefined timeframe; at least one processing unit communicatively connected to the interface; and a memory having instructions stored therein, the memory communicatively connected to the at least a processing unit, such that the mediatorial server upon execution of the instructions by the at least one processing unit configures the mediatorial server to:
receive the binding initial offer;
determine whether the initial binding offer is a valid offer for the product of choice;
analyze the initial binding offer using one or more preconfigured rules received from the merchant device; and
generate a time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the initial binding offer. 18. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to receive at least one subsequent time-limited offer from the consumer device for the at least one product of choice responsive of the time-limited merchant response;
analyze the at least one subsequent time-limited offer based on at least one second preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generate a subsequent time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the at least one second preconfigured rule. 19. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the subsequent time-limited merchant response is any one of: an acceptance of the subsequent time-limited offer, a decline of the subsequent time-limited offer, and one or more subsequent time-limited counter-offers. 20. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are any one of: same rules or different rules. 21. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are dynamically updated by the merchant respective of at least one of: a number of pending offers from consumers, and inventory level of the merchant. 22. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein each of the first and second at least one preconfigured rules may include a price range for a product, a current inventory level of the product, a specific promotion offered by the merchant for the product, and one more similar product that may be of interest to the consumer. 23. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to check if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one first predefined rules. 24. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to check if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one second predefined rules. 25. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the server is communicatively connected to a database configured to store the preconfigured rules. 26. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the time-limited merchant response is one of: an acceptance of the initial offer, a decline of the initial offer, and one or more time-limited counter-offers. 27. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
receive and acknowledge a consumer log on; and receive a selection of a merchant of choice and a product of choice from a consumer device of the consumer. 28. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
create a personal score card for each merchant and consumer; rank the consumer and the merchant based on their past activities and a feedback received from each merchant device and consumer device with respect of their interaction; and present the rank of the consumer and the merchant in the consumer's and the merchant's personal score cards. 29. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
match between a merchant and a consumer based on at least one of: a score card and a rank. 30. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the initial binding offer further includes billing information of the consumer, wherein the at least one subsequent offer includes a revised offered price, wherein each of the initial offer and the at least one subsequent offer is binding upon acceptance by the merchant device. 31. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
check if the offered price is within a predefined price range for the product of choice; and check if the billing information is corrected to determine the validity of the offer. 32. The mediatorial server of claim 25, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to save in the database information respective of all offers exchanged between the consumer device and the merchant device during the consumer to merchant negotiation. | A system and method for a consumer-to-merchant electronic negotiation is provided. The method includes receiving a time-limited initial binding offer from a consumer device for purchasing at least one product of choice from at least one merchant of choice responsive of the at least one product displayed on the consumer device and being offered for sale, wherein the initial binding offer includes at least an offered price for the product of choice, the product of choice, and the at least one merchant of choice, wherein the initial offer expires after a predefined timeframe; determining whether the initial binding offer received from the consumer device is a valid offer for the product of choice; analyzing the initial binding offer using at least one first preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generating a time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the initial binding offer.1. A method for a consumer-to-merchant electronic negotiation, comprising:
receiving a time-limited initial binding offer from a consumer device for purchasing at least one product of choice from at least one merchant of choice responsive of the at least one product displayed on the consumer device and being offered for sale, wherein the initial binding offer includes at least an offered price for the product of choice, the product of choice, and the at least one merchant of choice, wherein the initial offer expires after a predefined timeframe; determining whether the initial binding offer received from the consumer device is a valid offer for the product of choice; analyzing the initial binding offer using at least one first preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generating a time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the initial binding offer. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving at least one subsequent time-limited offer from the consumer device for the at least one product of choice responsive of the time-limited merchant response; analyzing the at least one subsequent time-limited offer based on at least one second preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generating a subsequent time-limited merchant response from the merchant device respective of the analysis of the at least one second preconfigured rule. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the subsequent time-limited merchant response is any one of: an acceptance of the subsequent time-limited offer, a decline of the subsequent time-limited offer, and one or more subsequent time-limited counter-offers. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are any one of: same rules or different rules. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are dynamically updated by the merchant respective of at least one of: a number of pending offers from consumers, and inventory level of the merchant. 6. The method of claim 3, wherein each of the first and second at least one preconfigured rules may include a price range for a product, a current inventory level of the product, a specific promotion offered by the merchant for the product, and inclusion of one more similar products that may be of interest to a consumer. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein analyzing the initial binding offer further comprising checking if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one first predefined rules. 8. The method of claim 6, wherein analyzing the initial binding offer further comprising checking if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one second predefined rules. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the time-limited merchant response is one of: an acceptance of the initial offer, a decline of the initial offer, and one or more time-limited counter-offers. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprises:
receiving and acknowledging a consumer log on; and receiving a selection of a merchant of choice and a product of choice from the consumer device of the consumer. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprises:
creating a personal score card for each merchant and consumer; ranking the consumer and the merchant based on their past activities and a feedback received from each merchant device and consumer device with respect of their interaction; and presenting the rank of the consumer and the merchant in the consumer and the merchant personal score cards. 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
matching between the merchant and the consumer based on at least one of: a score card and a rank. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the initial binding offer further includes billing information of the consumer, wherein the at least one subsequent offer includes a revised offered price, wherein each of the initial offer and the at least one subsequent offer is binding upon acceptance by the merchant device. 14. The method of claim 1, wherein determining whether the initial offer is valid further includes at least one of:
checking if the offered price is within a predefined price range for the product of choice; and checking if the billing information is correct. 15. The method of claim 1, further comprises:
saving in a database information respective of all offers exchanged between the consumer device and the merchant device during the consumer to merchant negotiation. 16. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions for causing one or more processing units to execute the method according to claim 1. 17. A mediatorial server for a consumer-to-merchant electronic negotiation, comprising:
an interface for communicatively connecting a consumer device with at the mediatorial server to receive a time-limited initial binding offer for purchasing at least one product of choice from at least one merchant of choice, wherein the time-limited initial binding offer is generated responsive of the at least one product displayed on the consumer device and offered for sale, wherein the initial binding offer includes at least an offered price for the product of choice, the product of choice, and the at least one merchant of choice, wherein the initial offer expires after a predefined timeframe; at least one processing unit communicatively connected to the interface; and a memory having instructions stored therein, the memory communicatively connected to the at least a processing unit, such that the mediatorial server upon execution of the instructions by the at least one processing unit configures the mediatorial server to:
receive the binding initial offer;
determine whether the initial binding offer is a valid offer for the product of choice;
analyze the initial binding offer using one or more preconfigured rules received from the merchant device; and
generate a time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the initial binding offer. 18. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to receive at least one subsequent time-limited offer from the consumer device for the at least one product of choice responsive of the time-limited merchant response;
analyze the at least one subsequent time-limited offer based on at least one second preconfigured rule received from the merchant device; and generate a subsequent time-limited merchant response respective of the analysis of the at least one second preconfigured rule. 19. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the subsequent time-limited merchant response is any one of: an acceptance of the subsequent time-limited offer, a decline of the subsequent time-limited offer, and one or more subsequent time-limited counter-offers. 20. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are any one of: same rules or different rules. 21. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the at least one first and second preconfigured rules are dynamically updated by the merchant respective of at least one of: a number of pending offers from consumers, and inventory level of the merchant. 22. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein each of the first and second at least one preconfigured rules may include a price range for a product, a current inventory level of the product, a specific promotion offered by the merchant for the product, and one more similar product that may be of interest to the consumer. 23. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to check if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one first predefined rules. 24. The mediatorial server of claim 18, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to check if the initial binding offer satisfies each of the at least one second predefined rules. 25. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the server is communicatively connected to a database configured to store the preconfigured rules. 26. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the time-limited merchant response is one of: an acceptance of the initial offer, a decline of the initial offer, and one or more time-limited counter-offers. 27. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
receive and acknowledge a consumer log on; and receive a selection of a merchant of choice and a product of choice from a consumer device of the consumer. 28. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
create a personal score card for each merchant and consumer; rank the consumer and the merchant based on their past activities and a feedback received from each merchant device and consumer device with respect of their interaction; and present the rank of the consumer and the merchant in the consumer's and the merchant's personal score cards. 29. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
match between a merchant and a consumer based on at least one of: a score card and a rank. 30. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the initial binding offer further includes billing information of the consumer, wherein the at least one subsequent offer includes a revised offered price, wherein each of the initial offer and the at least one subsequent offer is binding upon acceptance by the merchant device. 31. The mediatorial server of claim 17, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to:
check if the offered price is within a predefined price range for the product of choice; and check if the billing information is corrected to determine the validity of the offer. 32. The mediatorial server of claim 25, wherein the mediatorial server is further configured to save in the database information respective of all offers exchanged between the consumer device and the merchant device during the consumer to merchant negotiation. | 3,600 |
13,337 | 13,337 | 13,872,470 | 3,623 | Assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse. Ratings of parts are determined based partially on pick frequencies of the parts. The parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than parts with lower pick frequencies. Grades of storage locations in the warehouse are determined based partially on accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock. A programmed processor determines respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts. | 1. A method for assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse, the method comprising the steps of:
determining a multiplicity of ratings of a respective multiplicity of parts based partially on respective pick frequencies of the parts, wherein the parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than parts with lower pick frequencies; determining a multiplicity of grades of a respective multiplicity of storage locations in the warehouse based partially on respective accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point for the parts; and determining, by one or more processors, respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective multiplicity of ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the accessibility of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point is based partially on respective proximities of the storage locations to the loading dock or the other collection point and respective heights of the storage locations relative to a floor of the warehouse. 3. A computer program product for assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse, the computer program product comprising:
one or more computer-readable storage devices and program instructions stored on at least one of the one or more storage devices, the program instructions comprising: program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of ratings of a respective multiplicity of parts based partially on respective pick frequencies of the parts, wherein the parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than the parts with lower pick frequencies; program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of grades of a respective multiplicity of storage locations in the warehouse based partially on respective accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point for the parts; and program instructions to determine respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective multiplicity of ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts. 4. The computer program product of claim 3, wherein the accessibility of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point is based partially on respective proximities of the storage locations to the loading dock or the other collection point and respective heights of the storage locations relative to a floor of the warehouse. 5. A computer system for assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse, the computer system comprising:
one or more processors, one or more computer-readable memories, one or more computer-readable storage devices, and program instructions stored on at least one of the one or more storage devices for execution by at least one of the one or more processors via at least one of the one or more memories, the program instructions comprising:
program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of ratings of a respective multiplicity of parts based partially on respective pick frequencies of the parts, wherein the parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than the parts with lower pick frequencies;
program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of grades of a respective multiplicity of storage locations in the warehouse based partially on respective accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point for the parts; and
program instructions to determine respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective multiplicity of ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts. 6. The computer system of claim 5, wherein the accessibility of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point is based partially on respective proximities of the storage locations to the loading dock or the other collection point and respective heights of the storage locations relative to a floor of the warehouse. | Assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse. Ratings of parts are determined based partially on pick frequencies of the parts. The parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than parts with lower pick frequencies. Grades of storage locations in the warehouse are determined based partially on accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock. A programmed processor determines respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts.1. A method for assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse, the method comprising the steps of:
determining a multiplicity of ratings of a respective multiplicity of parts based partially on respective pick frequencies of the parts, wherein the parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than parts with lower pick frequencies; determining a multiplicity of grades of a respective multiplicity of storage locations in the warehouse based partially on respective accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point for the parts; and determining, by one or more processors, respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective multiplicity of ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the accessibility of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point is based partially on respective proximities of the storage locations to the loading dock or the other collection point and respective heights of the storage locations relative to a floor of the warehouse. 3. A computer program product for assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse, the computer program product comprising:
one or more computer-readable storage devices and program instructions stored on at least one of the one or more storage devices, the program instructions comprising: program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of ratings of a respective multiplicity of parts based partially on respective pick frequencies of the parts, wherein the parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than the parts with lower pick frequencies; program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of grades of a respective multiplicity of storage locations in the warehouse based partially on respective accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point for the parts; and program instructions to determine respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective multiplicity of ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts. 4. The computer program product of claim 3, wherein the accessibility of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point is based partially on respective proximities of the storage locations to the loading dock or the other collection point and respective heights of the storage locations relative to a floor of the warehouse. 5. A computer system for assigning parts to storage locations in a warehouse, the computer system comprising:
one or more processors, one or more computer-readable memories, one or more computer-readable storage devices, and program instructions stored on at least one of the one or more storage devices for execution by at least one of the one or more processors via at least one of the one or more memories, the program instructions comprising:
program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of ratings of a respective multiplicity of parts based partially on respective pick frequencies of the parts, wherein the parts with higher pick frequencies are determined to have higher ratings than the parts with lower pick frequencies;
program instructions to receive specification of a multiplicity of grades of a respective multiplicity of storage locations in the warehouse based partially on respective accessibilities of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point for the parts; and
program instructions to determine respective ranges of grades of the storage locations that will satisfy storage location criteria of the respective multiplicity of ratings of the parts such that the higher rated parts have narrower respective ranges of grades of satisfactory storage locations than the lower rated parts. 6. The computer system of claim 5, wherein the accessibility of the storage locations to a loading dock or other collection point is based partially on respective proximities of the storage locations to the loading dock or the other collection point and respective heights of the storage locations relative to a floor of the warehouse. | 3,600 |
13,338 | 13,338 | 14,054,238 | 3,682 | This document describes techniques for identifying purchase intent in social posts. In one or more implementations, a topic is received and social posts to one or more social networks that are related to the topic are collected. Then, one or more purchase intent posts expressing purchase intent towards the topic are identified from the collected social posts. In one or more implementations a purchase intent model, usable to identify social posts expressing purchase intent, is built from a training corpus of annotated social posts. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving a topic; collecting social posts to one or more social networks that are related to the topic; and identifying, from the collected social posts, one or more purchase intent posts, the purchase intent posts expressing purchase intent towards the topic. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the identifying the one or more purchase intent posts comprises computing a confidence level for each of the collected posts, and identifying the one or more purchase intent posts based on the confidence level. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, further comprising sorting the collected posts based on the confidence level of each post. 4. The computer-implemented of claim 2, where the identifying further includes identifying the one or more purchase intent posts based on the confidence level of the one or more purchase intent posts exceeding a confidence threshold. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein the confidence level is computed by analyzing the collected posts to determine whether each post includes features indicative of purchase intent. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include one or more of an object of desire related to the topic, an action verb depicting purchase intent towards the object of desire, or a self-reference to a user. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent further include one or more of a named entity or a positive sentiment word. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
separating the one or more purchase intent posts from one or more non-purchase intent posts; and causing display of representations of the one or more purchase intent posts and the one or more non-purchase intent posts in a user interface. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8, wherein the separating and causing display is performed in real-time as the social posts are being posted to the one or more social networks. 10. A computer-implemented method for building a purchase intent model comprising:
analyzing a training corpus of annotated social posts by linguistically parsing text of the annotated social posts to locate features indicative of purchase intent; and building the purchase intent model by passing the features indicative of purchase intent to a machine-learning model. 11. The computer-implemented method of claim 10, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include one or more of an object of desire, an action verb depicting purchase intent towards the object of desire, a self-reference to a user, a named entity, a positive sentiment word, or bag-of-words based delta-term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) vectors. 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 10, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include purchase intent words (PI words) and non-purchase intent words (non-PI words). 13. The computer-implemented method of claim 12, wherein the PI words and the non-PI words are determined by:
parsing the text of the annotated social posts to locate verbs and nouns; and scoring the located verbs and nouns based on a comparison of a number of times that the located verbs and nouns occur in annotated social posts expressing purchase intent and a number of times that the located verbs and nouns occur in annotated social posts not expressing purchase intent. 14. The computer-implemented method of claim 12, further comprising expanding a number of PI words and non-PI words recognized by the purchase intent model using one or more external databases. 15. The computer-implemented method of claim 14, wherein the one or more external databases comprise at least one of Wordnet or Freebase. 16. One or more computer-readable storage media comprising instructions stored thereon that, responsive to execution by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations comprising:
receiving a topic; collecting social posts to one or more social networks that are related to the topic; and identifying, from the collected social posts, one or more purchase intent posts, the purchase intent posts expressing purchase intent towards the topic. 17. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 16, wherein the identifying the one or more purchase intent posts comprises:
computing a confidence level for each of the collected posts; and identifying the one or more purchase intent posts based on the confidence level of the one or more purchase intent posts exceeding a confidence threshold. 18. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the confidence level is computed by analyzing the collected posts to determine whether each post includes features indicative of purchase intent. 19. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 18, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include one or more of an object of desire related to the topic, an action verb depicting purchase intent towards the object of desire, a self-reference to a user, a named entity, or a positive sentiment word. 20. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 16, wherein the instructions, responsive to execution by the computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations further comprising:
separating the one or more purchase intent posts and one or more non-purchase intent posts; and causing display of representations of the one or more purchase intent posts and the one or more non-purchase intent posts in a user interface. | This document describes techniques for identifying purchase intent in social posts. In one or more implementations, a topic is received and social posts to one or more social networks that are related to the topic are collected. Then, one or more purchase intent posts expressing purchase intent towards the topic are identified from the collected social posts. In one or more implementations a purchase intent model, usable to identify social posts expressing purchase intent, is built from a training corpus of annotated social posts.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving a topic; collecting social posts to one or more social networks that are related to the topic; and identifying, from the collected social posts, one or more purchase intent posts, the purchase intent posts expressing purchase intent towards the topic. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the identifying the one or more purchase intent posts comprises computing a confidence level for each of the collected posts, and identifying the one or more purchase intent posts based on the confidence level. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, further comprising sorting the collected posts based on the confidence level of each post. 4. The computer-implemented of claim 2, where the identifying further includes identifying the one or more purchase intent posts based on the confidence level of the one or more purchase intent posts exceeding a confidence threshold. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein the confidence level is computed by analyzing the collected posts to determine whether each post includes features indicative of purchase intent. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include one or more of an object of desire related to the topic, an action verb depicting purchase intent towards the object of desire, or a self-reference to a user. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent further include one or more of a named entity or a positive sentiment word. 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
separating the one or more purchase intent posts from one or more non-purchase intent posts; and causing display of representations of the one or more purchase intent posts and the one or more non-purchase intent posts in a user interface. 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8, wherein the separating and causing display is performed in real-time as the social posts are being posted to the one or more social networks. 10. A computer-implemented method for building a purchase intent model comprising:
analyzing a training corpus of annotated social posts by linguistically parsing text of the annotated social posts to locate features indicative of purchase intent; and building the purchase intent model by passing the features indicative of purchase intent to a machine-learning model. 11. The computer-implemented method of claim 10, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include one or more of an object of desire, an action verb depicting purchase intent towards the object of desire, a self-reference to a user, a named entity, a positive sentiment word, or bag-of-words based delta-term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) vectors. 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 10, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include purchase intent words (PI words) and non-purchase intent words (non-PI words). 13. The computer-implemented method of claim 12, wherein the PI words and the non-PI words are determined by:
parsing the text of the annotated social posts to locate verbs and nouns; and scoring the located verbs and nouns based on a comparison of a number of times that the located verbs and nouns occur in annotated social posts expressing purchase intent and a number of times that the located verbs and nouns occur in annotated social posts not expressing purchase intent. 14. The computer-implemented method of claim 12, further comprising expanding a number of PI words and non-PI words recognized by the purchase intent model using one or more external databases. 15. The computer-implemented method of claim 14, wherein the one or more external databases comprise at least one of Wordnet or Freebase. 16. One or more computer-readable storage media comprising instructions stored thereon that, responsive to execution by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations comprising:
receiving a topic; collecting social posts to one or more social networks that are related to the topic; and identifying, from the collected social posts, one or more purchase intent posts, the purchase intent posts expressing purchase intent towards the topic. 17. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 16, wherein the identifying the one or more purchase intent posts comprises:
computing a confidence level for each of the collected posts; and identifying the one or more purchase intent posts based on the confidence level of the one or more purchase intent posts exceeding a confidence threshold. 18. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the confidence level is computed by analyzing the collected posts to determine whether each post includes features indicative of purchase intent. 19. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 18, wherein the features indicative of purchase intent include one or more of an object of desire related to the topic, an action verb depicting purchase intent towards the object of desire, a self-reference to a user, a named entity, or a positive sentiment word. 20. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim 16, wherein the instructions, responsive to execution by the computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations further comprising:
separating the one or more purchase intent posts and one or more non-purchase intent posts; and causing display of representations of the one or more purchase intent posts and the one or more non-purchase intent posts in a user interface. | 3,600 |
13,339 | 13,339 | 14,327,124 | 3,629 | A system and computer-usable medium are disclosed for automating the layout of a space layout based upon organization requirements and space constraints. An integrated workplace management system (IWMS) receives a set of organization structure data associated with an organization and a building information model (BIM) containing a set of space constraint data associated with a target space. The set of organization structure data and the set of space constraint data are then processed by the IWMS to automatically generate a space layout corresponding to the target space. | 1-6. (canceled) 7. A system comprising:
a processor; a data bus coupled to the processor; and a computer-usable medium embodying computer program code, the computer-usable medium being coupled to the data bus, the computer program code used for automating the layout of a space and comprising instructions executable by the processor and configured for:
receiving a first set of organization structure data associated with an organization, the first set of organization structure data being received by an integrated workplace management system (IWMS);
receiving a first building information model (BIM) comprising a first set of space constraint data associated with a first space, the first BIM being received by the IWMS; and
processing the first set of organization structure data and the first set of space constraint data to automatically generate a first space layout corresponding to the first space, the processing performed by the IWMS. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the organization structure data comprises space entitlement rules associated with at least one member of the set of:
the organizational role of a user of a space; the personal identity of a user of a space; accommodation for predetermined needs associated with a user of a space; the type of an allocated space; the size of an allocated space; the shape of an allocated space; the placement of an allocated space; costs associated with an allocated space; features associated with an allocated space; whether an allocated space is shared; architectural requirements associated with an allocated space; and allocation of common spaces. 9. The system of claim 7, wherein the space constraint data comprises at least one member of the set of:
physical constraint data; architectural constraint data; financial constraint data; and legal constraint data. 10. The system of claim 7, further comprising:
receiving a second BIM comprising a second set of space constraint data associated with a second space, the second BIM received by the IWMS; processing the first set of organization structure data and the second set of space constraint data to automatically generate a second space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the first space layout to the second space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a first set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the first space layout and the second space layout. 11. The system of claim 10, further comprising:
processing the first set of space utilization metrics with the first set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 12. The system of claim 11, further comprising:
processing the first set of organization structure data to generate a second set of organization structure date, the processing comprising performing revisions to the first set of organization structure data; processing the second set of organization structure data with the first and second sets of space constraint data to automatically generate a third space layout corresponding to the first space and a fourth space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the third space layout to the fourth space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a second set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the third space layout and the fourth space layout; and processing the second set of space utilization metrics with the second set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 13. A computer-readable storage medium embodying computer program code, the computer program code comprising computer executable instructions configured for:
receiving a first set of organization structure data associated with an organization, the first set of organization structure data being received by an integrated workplace management system (IWMS); receiving a first building information model (BIM) comprising a first set of space constraint data associated with a first space, the first BIM being received by the IWMS; and processing first set of organization structure data and the first set of space constraint data to automatically generate a first space layout corresponding to the first space, the processing being performed by the IWMS. 14. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the organization structure data comprises space entitlement rules associated with at least one member of the set of:
the organizational role of a user of a space; the personal identity of a user of a space; accommodation for predetermined needs associated with a user of a space; the type of an allocated space; the size of an allocated space; the shape of an allocated space; the placement of an allocated space; costs associated with an allocated space; features associated with an allocated space; whether an allocated space is shared; architectural requirements associated with an allocated space; and allocation of common spaces. 15. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the space constraint data comprises at least one member of the set of:
physical constraint data; architectural constraint data; financial constraint data; and legal constraint data. 16. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, further comprising:
receiving a second BIM comprising a second set of space constraint data associated with a second space, the second BIM received by the IWMS; processing the first set of organization structure data and the second set of space constraint data to automatically generate a second space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the first space layout to the second space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a first set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the first space layout and the second space layout. 17. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, further comprising:
processing the first set of space utilization metrics with the first set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 18. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, further comprising:
processing the first set of organization structure data to generate a second set of organization structure date, the processing comprising performing revisions to the first set of organization structure data; processing the second set of organization structure data with the first and second sets of space constraint data to automatically generate a third space layout corresponding to the first space and a fourth space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the third space layout to the fourth space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a second set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the third space layout and the fourth space layout; and processing the second set of space utilization metrics with the second set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 19. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the computer executable instructions are deployable to a client system from a server system at a remote location. 20. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the computer executable instructions are provided by a service provider to a user on an on-demand basis. | A system and computer-usable medium are disclosed for automating the layout of a space layout based upon organization requirements and space constraints. An integrated workplace management system (IWMS) receives a set of organization structure data associated with an organization and a building information model (BIM) containing a set of space constraint data associated with a target space. The set of organization structure data and the set of space constraint data are then processed by the IWMS to automatically generate a space layout corresponding to the target space.1-6. (canceled) 7. A system comprising:
a processor; a data bus coupled to the processor; and a computer-usable medium embodying computer program code, the computer-usable medium being coupled to the data bus, the computer program code used for automating the layout of a space and comprising instructions executable by the processor and configured for:
receiving a first set of organization structure data associated with an organization, the first set of organization structure data being received by an integrated workplace management system (IWMS);
receiving a first building information model (BIM) comprising a first set of space constraint data associated with a first space, the first BIM being received by the IWMS; and
processing the first set of organization structure data and the first set of space constraint data to automatically generate a first space layout corresponding to the first space, the processing performed by the IWMS. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the organization structure data comprises space entitlement rules associated with at least one member of the set of:
the organizational role of a user of a space; the personal identity of a user of a space; accommodation for predetermined needs associated with a user of a space; the type of an allocated space; the size of an allocated space; the shape of an allocated space; the placement of an allocated space; costs associated with an allocated space; features associated with an allocated space; whether an allocated space is shared; architectural requirements associated with an allocated space; and allocation of common spaces. 9. The system of claim 7, wherein the space constraint data comprises at least one member of the set of:
physical constraint data; architectural constraint data; financial constraint data; and legal constraint data. 10. The system of claim 7, further comprising:
receiving a second BIM comprising a second set of space constraint data associated with a second space, the second BIM received by the IWMS; processing the first set of organization structure data and the second set of space constraint data to automatically generate a second space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the first space layout to the second space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a first set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the first space layout and the second space layout. 11. The system of claim 10, further comprising:
processing the first set of space utilization metrics with the first set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 12. The system of claim 11, further comprising:
processing the first set of organization structure data to generate a second set of organization structure date, the processing comprising performing revisions to the first set of organization structure data; processing the second set of organization structure data with the first and second sets of space constraint data to automatically generate a third space layout corresponding to the first space and a fourth space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the third space layout to the fourth space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a second set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the third space layout and the fourth space layout; and processing the second set of space utilization metrics with the second set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 13. A computer-readable storage medium embodying computer program code, the computer program code comprising computer executable instructions configured for:
receiving a first set of organization structure data associated with an organization, the first set of organization structure data being received by an integrated workplace management system (IWMS); receiving a first building information model (BIM) comprising a first set of space constraint data associated with a first space, the first BIM being received by the IWMS; and processing first set of organization structure data and the first set of space constraint data to automatically generate a first space layout corresponding to the first space, the processing being performed by the IWMS. 14. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the organization structure data comprises space entitlement rules associated with at least one member of the set of:
the organizational role of a user of a space; the personal identity of a user of a space; accommodation for predetermined needs associated with a user of a space; the type of an allocated space; the size of an allocated space; the shape of an allocated space; the placement of an allocated space; costs associated with an allocated space; features associated with an allocated space; whether an allocated space is shared; architectural requirements associated with an allocated space; and allocation of common spaces. 15. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the space constraint data comprises at least one member of the set of:
physical constraint data; architectural constraint data; financial constraint data; and legal constraint data. 16. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, further comprising:
receiving a second BIM comprising a second set of space constraint data associated with a second space, the second BIM received by the IWMS; processing the first set of organization structure data and the second set of space constraint data to automatically generate a second space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the first space layout to the second space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a first set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the first space layout and the second space layout. 17. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, further comprising:
processing the first set of space utilization metrics with the first set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 18. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, further comprising:
processing the first set of organization structure data to generate a second set of organization structure date, the processing comprising performing revisions to the first set of organization structure data; processing the second set of organization structure data with the first and second sets of space constraint data to automatically generate a third space layout corresponding to the first space and a fourth space layout corresponding to the second space, the processing performed by the IWMS; performing comparison operations to compare the third space layout to the fourth space layout, the performance of the comparison operations generating a second set of space utilization metrics respectively associated with the third space layout and the fourth space layout; and processing the second set of space utilization metrics with the second set of organization structure data to determine the optimum space layout. 19. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the computer executable instructions are deployable to a client system from a server system at a remote location. 20. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the computer executable instructions are provided by a service provider to a user on an on-demand basis. | 3,600 |
13,340 | 13,340 | 11,554,865 | 3,697 | A system and method of terminating a transaction between a merchant and customer are disclosed. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively transmitting a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises selectively transmitting said payment notification based, at least in part, on metadata associated with said merchant. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein said plurality of customers are associated with a credit account, and further comprising affecting an account balance of said credit account in response to completion of said transaction. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein said plurality of customers comprise individuals associated with an enterprise, and wherein said credit account is established on behalf of said enterprise. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein said credit account is associated with one or more credit account numbers. 6. The method of 1, wherein said order comprises an account number associated with said privilege level associated with said customer. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein said one or more credit account numbers comprise a first field associated with a main account and a second field associated with a privilege level. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein said order comprises a credit account number comprising a first field associated with a main account and a second field, the method further comprising determining said privilege level associated with said customer based, at least in part, on said second field. 9. The method of claim 1, and further comprising selectively terminating said transaction in response to said privilege level being insufficient to purchase said good and/or service. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein said transaction comprises a transaction to purchase a good, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises selectively transmitting said payment notification based, at least in part, on whether said good is depreciable. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein said receiving said order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant farther comprises receiving information from said customer over an Internet Protocol. 12. The method of claim 1, and further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a competitive bid requirement based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said purchase meeting said competitive bid requirement. 13. The method of claim 1, and further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a price limit based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said purchase meeting said price requirement. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein said order comprises a purchase price, and further comprising obtaining an approximated price associated with said purchase, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said purchase price not exceeding said approximated price by a predetermined amount. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein said predetermined amount is based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer. 16. The method of claim 1, and further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a preferred vendor requirement based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said merchant meeting said preferred vendor requirement. 17. The method of claim 1, wherein said order identifies a first vendor, and further comprising 18. The method of claim 1, wherein said order identifies a selected merchant, the method further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a preferred vendor requirement based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises enabling transmission of said payment notification to said selected merchant in response to said preferred vendor being incapable of filling said order. 20. The method of claim 19, and further comprising determining whether said preferred vendor is incapable of filling said order by determining whether said preferred has sufficient stock to fill said order. 21. A method comprising:
maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively enabling completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein said completing said transaction further comprises:
transmitting a confirmation message to said customer; and adjusting a balance associated with said credit account by an amount based, at least in part, on a price associated with said transaction. 23. The method of claim 21, wherein said wherein said selectively completing said transaction further comprises initiating providing said good and/or service specified in said order. 24. A method comprising:
maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and selectively enabling completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. 25. An apparatus comprising:
a computing platform, said computing platform being adapted to: receive an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively transmit a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 26. An apparatus, said apparatus comprising:
a computing platform, said computing platform being adapted to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively enable completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 27. An apparatus comprising:
a computing platform, said computing platform being adapted to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and selectively enable completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. 28. An article comprising:
a storage medium comprising machine-readable instructions stored thereon which, when executed on a computing platform, are adapted to cause said computing platform to: receive an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively transmit a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 29. An article comprising:
a storage medium comprising machine-readable instructions stored thereon which, when executed on a computing platform, are adapted to cause said computing platform to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively enable completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 30. An article comprising:
a storage medium comprising machine-readable instructions stored thereon which, when executed on a computing platform, are adapted to cause said computing platform to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and selectively enable completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. 31. An apparatus comprising:
means for receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and means for selectively transmitting a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 32. An apparatus comprising:
means for maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; means for receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and means for selectively enabling completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 33. An apparatus comprising:
means for maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; means for receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and means for selectively enabling completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. | A system and method of terminating a transaction between a merchant and customer are disclosed.1. A method comprising:
receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively transmitting a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises selectively transmitting said payment notification based, at least in part, on metadata associated with said merchant. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein said plurality of customers are associated with a credit account, and further comprising affecting an account balance of said credit account in response to completion of said transaction. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein said plurality of customers comprise individuals associated with an enterprise, and wherein said credit account is established on behalf of said enterprise. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein said credit account is associated with one or more credit account numbers. 6. The method of 1, wherein said order comprises an account number associated with said privilege level associated with said customer. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein said one or more credit account numbers comprise a first field associated with a main account and a second field associated with a privilege level. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein said order comprises a credit account number comprising a first field associated with a main account and a second field, the method further comprising determining said privilege level associated with said customer based, at least in part, on said second field. 9. The method of claim 1, and further comprising selectively terminating said transaction in response to said privilege level being insufficient to purchase said good and/or service. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein said transaction comprises a transaction to purchase a good, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises selectively transmitting said payment notification based, at least in part, on whether said good is depreciable. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein said receiving said order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant farther comprises receiving information from said customer over an Internet Protocol. 12. The method of claim 1, and further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a competitive bid requirement based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said purchase meeting said competitive bid requirement. 13. The method of claim 1, and further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a price limit based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said purchase meeting said price requirement. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein said order comprises a purchase price, and further comprising obtaining an approximated price associated with said purchase, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said purchase price not exceeding said approximated price by a predetermined amount. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein said predetermined amount is based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer. 16. The method of claim 1, and further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a preferred vendor requirement based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer, and wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises transmitting said payment notification in response to said merchant meeting said preferred vendor requirement. 17. The method of claim 1, wherein said order identifies a first vendor, and further comprising 18. The method of claim 1, wherein said order identifies a selected merchant, the method further comprising determining whether said purchase is subject to a preferred vendor requirement based, at least in part, on said privilege level associated with said customer. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein said selectively transmitting said payment notification further comprises enabling transmission of said payment notification to said selected merchant in response to said preferred vendor being incapable of filling said order. 20. The method of claim 19, and further comprising determining whether said preferred vendor is incapable of filling said order by determining whether said preferred has sufficient stock to fill said order. 21. A method comprising:
maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively enabling completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein said completing said transaction further comprises:
transmitting a confirmation message to said customer; and adjusting a balance associated with said credit account by an amount based, at least in part, on a price associated with said transaction. 23. The method of claim 21, wherein said wherein said selectively completing said transaction further comprises initiating providing said good and/or service specified in said order. 24. A method comprising:
maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and selectively enabling completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. 25. An apparatus comprising:
a computing platform, said computing platform being adapted to: receive an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively transmit a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 26. An apparatus, said apparatus comprising:
a computing platform, said computing platform being adapted to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively enable completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 27. An apparatus comprising:
a computing platform, said computing platform being adapted to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and selectively enable completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. 28. An article comprising:
a storage medium comprising machine-readable instructions stored thereon which, when executed on a computing platform, are adapted to cause said computing platform to: receive an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively transmit a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 29. An article comprising:
a storage medium comprising machine-readable instructions stored thereon which, when executed on a computing platform, are adapted to cause said computing platform to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and selectively enable completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 30. An article comprising:
a storage medium comprising machine-readable instructions stored thereon which, when executed on a computing platform, are adapted to cause said computing platform to: maintain a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; receive an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and selectively enable completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. 31. An apparatus comprising:
means for receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and means for selectively transmitting a payment notification to said merchant based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 32. An apparatus comprising:
means for maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; means for receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant; and means for selectively enabling completion of said transaction based, at least in part, on a privilege level associated with said customer. 33. An apparatus comprising:
means for maintaining a credit account for payment in the purchase of goods and/or services on behalf of an entity associated with said credit account; means for receiving an order from one of a plurality of customers associated with said entity, said order initiating a transaction to purchase a good and/or service from a merchant, said one of a plurality of customers being associated with a customer privilege level; and means for selectively enabling completion of said transaction in response to said customer privilege level meeting a predetermined privilege level. | 3,600 |
13,341 | 13,341 | 14,144,453 | 3,686 | A medical screening system includes: a mobile device including: a user interface embodied in an input/output system; a processor; and a memory in communication with the processor, including stored instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: provide a medical screening intake system that receives objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for a person as input through the user interface; receive the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for the person as input through the user interface; automatically process the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results to generate one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person; and communicate the one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person to the person as a report embodied in a structured data output. | 1. A medical screening system comprising:
a mobile device including:
a user interface embodied in an input/output system;
a processor; and
a memory in communication with the processor, including stored instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
provide a medical screening intake system that receives objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for a person as input through the user interface;
receive the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for the person as input through the user interface;
automatically process the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results to generate one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person; and
communicate the one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person to the person as a report embodied in a structured data output. 2. The medical screening system of claim 1 wherein the one or more plans of care include standard recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for conditions identified in the objective medical data, subjective medical data, or medical test results. 3. The medical screening system of claim 2 further including a server in communication with one or more of the mobile devices, wherein the server stores the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for two or more people. 4. The medical screening system of claim 3 wherein an objective score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored. 5. The medical screening system of claim 4 wherein the objective score identifies the individual person's risk of future medical claims. 6. The medical screening system of claim 4 wherein a relative risk score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored. 7. The medical screening system of claim 6 wherein the relative risk score quantifies the relative risk of future medical claims for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored as compared to the other people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored. 8. The medical screening system of claim 6 wherein the system automatically stratifies the people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored into two or more risk classes, wherein the risk classes are distinguished by the relative risk of future medical claims for the people in each risk class. 9. A medical screening system comprising:
one or more mobile devices, each mobile device including:
a user interface embodied in an input/output system;
a processor; and
a memory in communication with the processor, including stored instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
provide a medical screening intake system that receives objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for a person as input through the user interface;
receive the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for the person as input through the user interface; and
automatically process the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results to generate one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person; and
a server in communication with one or more of the mobile devices, wherein the server stores the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for two or more people; wherein an objective score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored, wherein the objective score identifies the individual person's risk of future medical claims; wherein a relative risk score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored, wherein the relative risk score quantifies the relative risk of future medical claims for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored as compared to the other people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored; wherein the system automatically stratifies the people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored into two or more risk classes, wherein the risk classes are distinguished by the relative risk of future medical claims for the people in each risk class. | A medical screening system includes: a mobile device including: a user interface embodied in an input/output system; a processor; and a memory in communication with the processor, including stored instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: provide a medical screening intake system that receives objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for a person as input through the user interface; receive the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for the person as input through the user interface; automatically process the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results to generate one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person; and communicate the one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person to the person as a report embodied in a structured data output.1. A medical screening system comprising:
a mobile device including:
a user interface embodied in an input/output system;
a processor; and
a memory in communication with the processor, including stored instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
provide a medical screening intake system that receives objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for a person as input through the user interface;
receive the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for the person as input through the user interface;
automatically process the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results to generate one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person; and
communicate the one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person to the person as a report embodied in a structured data output. 2. The medical screening system of claim 1 wherein the one or more plans of care include standard recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for conditions identified in the objective medical data, subjective medical data, or medical test results. 3. The medical screening system of claim 2 further including a server in communication with one or more of the mobile devices, wherein the server stores the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for two or more people. 4. The medical screening system of claim 3 wherein an objective score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored. 5. The medical screening system of claim 4 wherein the objective score identifies the individual person's risk of future medical claims. 6. The medical screening system of claim 4 wherein a relative risk score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored. 7. The medical screening system of claim 6 wherein the relative risk score quantifies the relative risk of future medical claims for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored as compared to the other people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored. 8. The medical screening system of claim 6 wherein the system automatically stratifies the people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored into two or more risk classes, wherein the risk classes are distinguished by the relative risk of future medical claims for the people in each risk class. 9. A medical screening system comprising:
one or more mobile devices, each mobile device including:
a user interface embodied in an input/output system;
a processor; and
a memory in communication with the processor, including stored instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:
provide a medical screening intake system that receives objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for a person as input through the user interface;
receive the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for the person as input through the user interface; and
automatically process the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results to generate one or more plans of care specifically adapted for the person; and
a server in communication with one or more of the mobile devices, wherein the server stores the objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results for two or more people; wherein an objective score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored, wherein the objective score identifies the individual person's risk of future medical claims; wherein a relative risk score is assigned for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored, wherein the relative risk score quantifies the relative risk of future medical claims for each person for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored as compared to the other people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored; wherein the system automatically stratifies the people for whom objective medical data, subjective medical data, and medical test results is stored into two or more risk classes, wherein the risk classes are distinguished by the relative risk of future medical claims for the people in each risk class. | 3,600 |
13,342 | 13,342 | 15,292,994 | 3,688 | A system, method and software medium, send merchant alerts to a traveler. A traveler alert server receives at least one bid defining one or more keywords and a corresponding alert from each of a plurality of merchants. The traveler alert server receives location data defining a current location of the traveler from a location aware device (LAD). The corresponding alerts are ordered by performing a generalized second-price (GSP) auction based upon the location data, a merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants. The ordered corresponding alerts are sent to the LAD for display to the traveler. | 1. A method for sending merchant alerts to a traveler, comprising:
receiving, within a traveler alert server from each of a plurality of merchants, at least one bid defining one or more bid keywords and a corresponding alert; receiving, within the traveler alert server, location data from a location aware device (LAD) defining a current location of the traveler; determining, based upon the location data, a remaining travel time (RTT) for the traveler to reach a merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid; ordering the corresponding alerts via a generalized second-price (GSP) auction based upon (a) the location data, (b) a merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and (c) the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants where the bid keywords match the corresponding RTT; and transmitting the ordered corresponding alerts to the LAD for display to the traveler. 2. The method of claim 1, the step of transmitting comprising starting a timer defining a period when the traveler may respond to the ordered corresponding alerts within a reverse auction. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving an indication of selection of one of the ordered corresponding alerts from the LAD; and redirecting the LAD to a web site corresponding to the selection. 4. The method of claim 1, the GSP auction comprising, for the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants, matching the bid keywords to the location data to determine whether the bid is entered into the auction. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a bid value for the at least one bid based upon the match between the bid keywords and the RTT. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, within the traveler alert server from the LAD, traveler preferences that define current preferences of the traveler; and determining entry of the at least one bid for each of the plurality of merchants into the GSP auction based upon the corresponding RTT and one or more traveler keywords defined within the traveler preferences. 7. The method of claim 6, the GSP auction comprising matching the bid keywords to the location data and the traveler preferences to determine a bid value. 8. The method of claim 7, the GSP auction comprising evaluating business rules to determine a bid value for the at least one bid. 9. The method of claim 8, the business rules comprising a set of electronic directions provided by each of the plurality of merchants to automatically generate and modify the corresponding alert. 10. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
sending the location data and the traveler preferences to a merchant advertiser business rule server of one of the plurality of merchants; and receiving, from the merchant advertiser business rule server, a dynamically generated bid for entry into the GSP auction. 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining a route of the LAD; and selecting the at least one bid for each of the plurality of merchants for entry into the GPS auction based upon a merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid being proximate the route. 12. The method of claim 11, the step of determining the route comprising determining, based upon the location data, at least one hypothetical route for the LAD based upon a mode of transport of the traveler and map data. 13. The method of claim 11, the step of determining the route comprising receiving the route from the LAD. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
sending the route to a merchant advisor business rules server from the traveler alert server; and receiving, within the traveler alert server, the at least one bid from the merchant advisor business rules server, the at least one bid being based upon the route and the merchant location. 15. The method of claim 1, further comprising selecting the at least one bid for entry into the GSP auction based upon a geographic vicinity defined relative to a current location of the LAD determined from the location data. 16. The method of claim 1, further comprising selecting the at least one bid for entry into the GSP auction based upon a geographic vicinity defined relative to a determined route of the LAD. 17. The method of claim 1, further comprising selecting the at least one bid for entry into the GSP auction based upon a geographic vicinity defined relative to the merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid. 18. A traveler alert server for sending merchant alerts to a traveler, comprising:
at least one processor; a memory; a merchant locations system login (MLSL) for receiving, from each of a plurality of merchants, at least one bid corresponding to a merchant location; an ETA/RTT resolver, implemented within the memory, for determining one or both of an RTT and an ETA for the traveler to arrive at each of the one or more merchant locations based upon location data, defining a current location of the traveler, received from a location aware device (LAD) of the traveler; an auction server for performing a generalized second-price (GSP) auction to order a plurality of alerts corresponding to the at least one bid based upon (a) the location data, (b) the merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and (c) the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants where the bid keywords match the corresponding RTT; an alert generator for sending the ordered alerts to the LAD for display to the traveler; and a transaction module for receiving an input indicating selection of one of the ordered alerts by the traveler. 19. A non-transitory computer readable medium with computer executable instructions stored thereon executed by a traveler alert processor to perform the method of sending merchant alerts to a traveler, comprising:
instructions for receiving, within a traveler alert server from each of a plurality of merchants, at least one bid defining one or more bid keywords and a corresponding alert; instructions for receiving, within the traveler alert server from a location aware device (LAD), location data defining a current location of the traveler; instructions for determining, based upon the location data, a remaining travel time (RTT) for the traveler to reach a merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid; instructions for ordering the corresponding alerts by performing a generalized second-price (GSP) auction based upon (a) the location data, (b) a merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and (c) the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants where the bid keywords match the corresponding RTT; and instructions for sending the ordered corresponding alerts to the LAD for display to the traveler. | A system, method and software medium, send merchant alerts to a traveler. A traveler alert server receives at least one bid defining one or more keywords and a corresponding alert from each of a plurality of merchants. The traveler alert server receives location data defining a current location of the traveler from a location aware device (LAD). The corresponding alerts are ordered by performing a generalized second-price (GSP) auction based upon the location data, a merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants. The ordered corresponding alerts are sent to the LAD for display to the traveler.1. A method for sending merchant alerts to a traveler, comprising:
receiving, within a traveler alert server from each of a plurality of merchants, at least one bid defining one or more bid keywords and a corresponding alert; receiving, within the traveler alert server, location data from a location aware device (LAD) defining a current location of the traveler; determining, based upon the location data, a remaining travel time (RTT) for the traveler to reach a merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid; ordering the corresponding alerts via a generalized second-price (GSP) auction based upon (a) the location data, (b) a merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and (c) the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants where the bid keywords match the corresponding RTT; and transmitting the ordered corresponding alerts to the LAD for display to the traveler. 2. The method of claim 1, the step of transmitting comprising starting a timer defining a period when the traveler may respond to the ordered corresponding alerts within a reverse auction. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving an indication of selection of one of the ordered corresponding alerts from the LAD; and redirecting the LAD to a web site corresponding to the selection. 4. The method of claim 1, the GSP auction comprising, for the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants, matching the bid keywords to the location data to determine whether the bid is entered into the auction. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a bid value for the at least one bid based upon the match between the bid keywords and the RTT. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving, within the traveler alert server from the LAD, traveler preferences that define current preferences of the traveler; and determining entry of the at least one bid for each of the plurality of merchants into the GSP auction based upon the corresponding RTT and one or more traveler keywords defined within the traveler preferences. 7. The method of claim 6, the GSP auction comprising matching the bid keywords to the location data and the traveler preferences to determine a bid value. 8. The method of claim 7, the GSP auction comprising evaluating business rules to determine a bid value for the at least one bid. 9. The method of claim 8, the business rules comprising a set of electronic directions provided by each of the plurality of merchants to automatically generate and modify the corresponding alert. 10. The method of claim 6, further comprising:
sending the location data and the traveler preferences to a merchant advertiser business rule server of one of the plurality of merchants; and receiving, from the merchant advertiser business rule server, a dynamically generated bid for entry into the GSP auction. 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining a route of the LAD; and selecting the at least one bid for each of the plurality of merchants for entry into the GPS auction based upon a merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid being proximate the route. 12. The method of claim 11, the step of determining the route comprising determining, based upon the location data, at least one hypothetical route for the LAD based upon a mode of transport of the traveler and map data. 13. The method of claim 11, the step of determining the route comprising receiving the route from the LAD. 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising:
sending the route to a merchant advisor business rules server from the traveler alert server; and receiving, within the traveler alert server, the at least one bid from the merchant advisor business rules server, the at least one bid being based upon the route and the merchant location. 15. The method of claim 1, further comprising selecting the at least one bid for entry into the GSP auction based upon a geographic vicinity defined relative to a current location of the LAD determined from the location data. 16. The method of claim 1, further comprising selecting the at least one bid for entry into the GSP auction based upon a geographic vicinity defined relative to a determined route of the LAD. 17. The method of claim 1, further comprising selecting the at least one bid for entry into the GSP auction based upon a geographic vicinity defined relative to the merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid. 18. A traveler alert server for sending merchant alerts to a traveler, comprising:
at least one processor; a memory; a merchant locations system login (MLSL) for receiving, from each of a plurality of merchants, at least one bid corresponding to a merchant location; an ETA/RTT resolver, implemented within the memory, for determining one or both of an RTT and an ETA for the traveler to arrive at each of the one or more merchant locations based upon location data, defining a current location of the traveler, received from a location aware device (LAD) of the traveler; an auction server for performing a generalized second-price (GSP) auction to order a plurality of alerts corresponding to the at least one bid based upon (a) the location data, (b) the merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and (c) the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants where the bid keywords match the corresponding RTT; an alert generator for sending the ordered alerts to the LAD for display to the traveler; and a transaction module for receiving an input indicating selection of one of the ordered alerts by the traveler. 19. A non-transitory computer readable medium with computer executable instructions stored thereon executed by a traveler alert processor to perform the method of sending merchant alerts to a traveler, comprising:
instructions for receiving, within a traveler alert server from each of a plurality of merchants, at least one bid defining one or more bid keywords and a corresponding alert; instructions for receiving, within the traveler alert server from a location aware device (LAD), location data defining a current location of the traveler; instructions for determining, based upon the location data, a remaining travel time (RTT) for the traveler to reach a merchant location corresponding to the at least one bid; instructions for ordering the corresponding alerts by performing a generalized second-price (GSP) auction based upon (a) the location data, (b) a merchant location of each of the plurality of merchants, and (c) the at least one bid of each of the plurality of merchants where the bid keywords match the corresponding RTT; and instructions for sending the ordered corresponding alerts to the LAD for display to the traveler. | 3,600 |
13,343 | 13,343 | 13,569,601 | 3,628 | A real time dynamic vehicle parking price management method, system and processor-readable medium. Two factors can be considered in determining the parking price: the real time occupancy level and the historic parking demand. An assured price that follows from a background schedule can be pre-determined based on a historic parking data. Future demand can be estimated based on the historic occupancy data and price and the assured price can be made proportional to the estimated demand. The assured price can be simplified to be intuitive and easy to remember. A real time parking price can be determined by an occupancy feedback control. A controller can be employed to track the occupancy and to suggest the parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point to improve economic efficiency and reduce cruising for parking. | 1. A vehicle parking price management method, comprising:
pre-determining an assured price that follows from a background schedule based on historic parking data and estimating a demand wherein said assured price is proportional to said demand based on said historic parking data and price; determining a real time parking price via an occupancy feedback control and track occupancy and adjust a parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point; and publishing and updating said assured price at timescales larger than said real-time and presenting said assured price for a given duration to a user with a real-time demand based influence introduced as a discount for an ex-ante variant and an ex-post variant. 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
initially obtaining said assured price from a modeling and simulation approach wherein said assured price is made smooth and intuitive with averaging and approximation; and
iteratively updating said assured price to an upper bound to control prices in past N days. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising applying a moving average for a smoothing and adaptive piecewise constant approximation for a dimension reduction, 4. The method of claim 2 further comprising:
updating said assured price by counting a number of times said assured price is pushed by a control price;
determining an overlap between an actual price curve and said assured price by a histogram; and
configuring an update proportional to a density of said overlap. 5. The method of claim 2 further comprising updating said assured price by utilizing an element-wise upper bound of said control price as new assured price. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprising controlling said parking occupancy to a desired level with rate constrained by a pre-defined rate curve. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
paying said real time price if said real time price is lower than said assured time price; and
paying said assured time price if said real time price is higher than said assured time price. 8. The method of claim 1 further comprising configuring said ex-post payment variant by:
computing an off-set o a base schedule and providing a final price by an integral of said real-time rate; and
presenting said price as a discount to said assured price. 9. The method of claim 1 further comprising configuring said ex-post payment variant by:
adjusting rates in said background schedule based on a difference between an expected and observed demand at start of a parking event; and
smoothing an offset to said rates to reflect an assumed regression to a mean demand wherein said assurance is utilized to bound a total parking price. 10. A vehicle parking price management system, comprising:
a processor; a data bus coupled to said processor; and a computer-usable medium embodying computer program code, said computer-usable medium being coupled to said data bus, said computer program code comprising instructions executable by said processor and configured for:
pre-determining an assured price that follows from a background schedule based on historic parking data and estimating a demand wherein said assured price is proportional to said demand based on said historic parking data and price;
determining a real time parking price via an occupancy feedback control and track occupancy and adjust a parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point; and
publishing and updating said assured price at timescales larger than said real-time and presenting said assured price for a given duration to a user with a real-time demand based influence introduced as a discount for an ex-ante variant and an ex-post variant. 11. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
initially obtaining said assured price from a modeling and simulation approach wherein said assured price is made smooth and intuitive with averaging and approximation; and
iteratively updating said assured price to an upper bound to control prices in past N days. 12. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for applying a moving average for a smoothing and adaptive piecewise constant approximation for a dimension reduction. 13. The system of claim 11 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
updating said assured price by counting a number of times said assured price is pushed by a control price;
determining an overlap between an actual price curve and said assured price by a histogram; and
configuring an update proportional to a density of said overlap. 14. The system of claim 11 wherein said instructions are further configured for updating said assured price by utilizing an element-wise upper bound of said control price as new assured price. 15. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for controlling said parking occupancy to a desired level with rate constrained by a pre-defined rate curve. 16. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
paying said real time price if said real time price is lower than said assured time price; and
paying said assured time price if said real time price is higher than said assured time price. 17. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
computing an off-set to a base schedule and providing a final price by an integral of said real-time rate; and
presenting said price as a discount to said assured price, 18. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
adjusting rates in said background schedule based on a difference between an expected and observed demand at start of a parking event; and
smoothing an offset to said rates to reflect an assumed regression to a mean demand wherein said assurance is utilized to bound a total parking price. 19. A processor-readable medium storing code representing instructions to cause a process for vehicle parking price management, said code comprising code to:
pre-determine an assured price that follows from a background schedule based on historic parking data and estimating a demand wherein said assured price is proportional to said demand based on said historic parking data and price; determine a real time parking price via an occupancy feedback control and track occupancy and adjust a parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point; and publish and update said assured price at timescales larger than said real-time and presenting said assured price for a given duration to a user with a real-time demand based influence introduced as a discount for an ex-ante variant and an ex-post variant. 20. The processor-readable medium of claim 19 wherein said code further comprises code to:
initially obtain said assured price from a modeling and simulation approach wherein said assured price is made smooth and intuitive with averaging and approximation; and
iteratively update said assured price to an upper bound to control prices in past N days. | A real time dynamic vehicle parking price management method, system and processor-readable medium. Two factors can be considered in determining the parking price: the real time occupancy level and the historic parking demand. An assured price that follows from a background schedule can be pre-determined based on a historic parking data. Future demand can be estimated based on the historic occupancy data and price and the assured price can be made proportional to the estimated demand. The assured price can be simplified to be intuitive and easy to remember. A real time parking price can be determined by an occupancy feedback control. A controller can be employed to track the occupancy and to suggest the parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point to improve economic efficiency and reduce cruising for parking.1. A vehicle parking price management method, comprising:
pre-determining an assured price that follows from a background schedule based on historic parking data and estimating a demand wherein said assured price is proportional to said demand based on said historic parking data and price; determining a real time parking price via an occupancy feedback control and track occupancy and adjust a parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point; and publishing and updating said assured price at timescales larger than said real-time and presenting said assured price for a given duration to a user with a real-time demand based influence introduced as a discount for an ex-ante variant and an ex-post variant. 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
initially obtaining said assured price from a modeling and simulation approach wherein said assured price is made smooth and intuitive with averaging and approximation; and
iteratively updating said assured price to an upper bound to control prices in past N days. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising applying a moving average for a smoothing and adaptive piecewise constant approximation for a dimension reduction, 4. The method of claim 2 further comprising:
updating said assured price by counting a number of times said assured price is pushed by a control price;
determining an overlap between an actual price curve and said assured price by a histogram; and
configuring an update proportional to a density of said overlap. 5. The method of claim 2 further comprising updating said assured price by utilizing an element-wise upper bound of said control price as new assured price. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprising controlling said parking occupancy to a desired level with rate constrained by a pre-defined rate curve. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
paying said real time price if said real time price is lower than said assured time price; and
paying said assured time price if said real time price is higher than said assured time price. 8. The method of claim 1 further comprising configuring said ex-post payment variant by:
computing an off-set o a base schedule and providing a final price by an integral of said real-time rate; and
presenting said price as a discount to said assured price. 9. The method of claim 1 further comprising configuring said ex-post payment variant by:
adjusting rates in said background schedule based on a difference between an expected and observed demand at start of a parking event; and
smoothing an offset to said rates to reflect an assumed regression to a mean demand wherein said assurance is utilized to bound a total parking price. 10. A vehicle parking price management system, comprising:
a processor; a data bus coupled to said processor; and a computer-usable medium embodying computer program code, said computer-usable medium being coupled to said data bus, said computer program code comprising instructions executable by said processor and configured for:
pre-determining an assured price that follows from a background schedule based on historic parking data and estimating a demand wherein said assured price is proportional to said demand based on said historic parking data and price;
determining a real time parking price via an occupancy feedback control and track occupancy and adjust a parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point; and
publishing and updating said assured price at timescales larger than said real-time and presenting said assured price for a given duration to a user with a real-time demand based influence introduced as a discount for an ex-ante variant and an ex-post variant. 11. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
initially obtaining said assured price from a modeling and simulation approach wherein said assured price is made smooth and intuitive with averaging and approximation; and
iteratively updating said assured price to an upper bound to control prices in past N days. 12. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for applying a moving average for a smoothing and adaptive piecewise constant approximation for a dimension reduction. 13. The system of claim 11 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
updating said assured price by counting a number of times said assured price is pushed by a control price;
determining an overlap between an actual price curve and said assured price by a histogram; and
configuring an update proportional to a density of said overlap. 14. The system of claim 11 wherein said instructions are further configured for updating said assured price by utilizing an element-wise upper bound of said control price as new assured price. 15. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for controlling said parking occupancy to a desired level with rate constrained by a pre-defined rate curve. 16. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
paying said real time price if said real time price is lower than said assured time price; and
paying said assured time price if said real time price is higher than said assured time price. 17. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
computing an off-set to a base schedule and providing a final price by an integral of said real-time rate; and
presenting said price as a discount to said assured price, 18. The system of claim 10 wherein said instructions are further configured for:
adjusting rates in said background schedule based on a difference between an expected and observed demand at start of a parking event; and
smoothing an offset to said rates to reflect an assumed regression to a mean demand wherein said assurance is utilized to bound a total parking price. 19. A processor-readable medium storing code representing instructions to cause a process for vehicle parking price management, said code comprising code to:
pre-determine an assured price that follows from a background schedule based on historic parking data and estimating a demand wherein said assured price is proportional to said demand based on said historic parking data and price; determine a real time parking price via an occupancy feedback control and track occupancy and adjust a parking price in real time based on an occupancy set point; and publish and update said assured price at timescales larger than said real-time and presenting said assured price for a given duration to a user with a real-time demand based influence introduced as a discount for an ex-ante variant and an ex-post variant. 20. The processor-readable medium of claim 19 wherein said code further comprises code to:
initially obtain said assured price from a modeling and simulation approach wherein said assured price is made smooth and intuitive with averaging and approximation; and
iteratively update said assured price to an upper bound to control prices in past N days. | 3,600 |
13,344 | 13,344 | 15,253,099 | 3,649 | An air quality monitoring system for a motor vehicle includes a plurality of air sampling points on the motor vehicle, a single air quality sensor and a conduit system connecting the plurality of air sampling points with the single air quality sensor. | 1. An air quality monitoring system for a motor vehicle, comprising:
a plurality of air sampling points on said motor vehicle; a single air quality sensor; and a conduit system connecting said plurality of air sampling points with said single air quality sensor. 2. The air quality monitoring system of claim 1, wherein said conduit system includes a switching mechanism and a plurality of hoses extending from said switching mechanism to said plurality of air sampling points. 3. The air quality monitoring system of claim 2, further including an air pump. 4. The air quality monitoring system of claim 3, wherein said single air quality sensor and said air pump are downstream from said switching mechanism. 5. The air quality monitoring system of claim 4, wherein an air sample hose connects said switching mechanism with said single air quality sensor and said air pump whereby a discrete air sample from any one air sampling point of said plurality of air sampling points is tested for air quality by said single air quality sensor. 6. The air quality monitoring system of claim 5, further including a controller configured to control said switching mechanism and allow said discrete air sample to be drawn from said any one air sampling point by said air pump. 7. The air quality monitoring system of claim 6, wherein said controller is further configured to control said air pump. 8. The air quality monitoring system of claim 7, wherein a first air sampling point of said plurality of air sampling points is in a passenger compartment of said motor vehicle and a second air sampling point of said plurality of air sampling points is exterior to said passenger compartment. 9. The air quality monitoring system of claim 7, including a first air sampling point in a passenger compartment of said motor vehicle. 10. The air quality monitoring system of claim 9, including a second air sampling point in said passenger compartment of said motor vehicle wherein said first air sampling point is motor vehicle forward of said second air sampling point. 11. The air quality monitoring system of claim 10, including a third air sampling point on said motor vehicle exterior to said passenger compartment. 12. The air quality monitoring system of claim 11, including a fourth air sampling point positioned in an air stream being delivered to said passenger compartment by an HVAC system of said motor vehicle. 13. The air quality monitoring system of claim 12, wherein said single air quality sensor is a particulate sensor. 14. A method of monitoring and controlling air quality in a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle, comprising:
discretely testing air quality of (a) a first air sample taken from a first air sampling point within said passenger compartment and (b) a second air sample taken from a second sampling point exterior to said passenger compartment by means of a single air quality sensor. 15. The method of claim 14, including discretely testing air quality of a third air sample taken from a third air sampling point within said passenger compartment by means of said single air quality sensor. 16. The method of claim 15, including discretely testing air quality of a fourth air sample taken from a fourth air sampling point positioned in an airstream being delivered to said passenger compartment by an HVAC system of said motor vehicle. 17. The method of claim 16, including directing said airstream through a filter of said HVAC system when air quality of at least one of said first air sample, said second air sample, said third air sample and said fourth air sample rise above a predetermined threshold level. 18. The method of claim 14, including separately drawing said first air sample from said first air sampling point and said second air sample from said second air sampling point through said single air quality sensor by means of a single air pump. 19. The method of claim 18, including providing a switching mechanism downstream from said first air sampling point and said second air sampling point and upstream from said single air quality sensor and said single air pump. 20. The method of claim 19, including controlling said switching mechanism by means of a controller. | An air quality monitoring system for a motor vehicle includes a plurality of air sampling points on the motor vehicle, a single air quality sensor and a conduit system connecting the plurality of air sampling points with the single air quality sensor.1. An air quality monitoring system for a motor vehicle, comprising:
a plurality of air sampling points on said motor vehicle; a single air quality sensor; and a conduit system connecting said plurality of air sampling points with said single air quality sensor. 2. The air quality monitoring system of claim 1, wherein said conduit system includes a switching mechanism and a plurality of hoses extending from said switching mechanism to said plurality of air sampling points. 3. The air quality monitoring system of claim 2, further including an air pump. 4. The air quality monitoring system of claim 3, wherein said single air quality sensor and said air pump are downstream from said switching mechanism. 5. The air quality monitoring system of claim 4, wherein an air sample hose connects said switching mechanism with said single air quality sensor and said air pump whereby a discrete air sample from any one air sampling point of said plurality of air sampling points is tested for air quality by said single air quality sensor. 6. The air quality monitoring system of claim 5, further including a controller configured to control said switching mechanism and allow said discrete air sample to be drawn from said any one air sampling point by said air pump. 7. The air quality monitoring system of claim 6, wherein said controller is further configured to control said air pump. 8. The air quality monitoring system of claim 7, wherein a first air sampling point of said plurality of air sampling points is in a passenger compartment of said motor vehicle and a second air sampling point of said plurality of air sampling points is exterior to said passenger compartment. 9. The air quality monitoring system of claim 7, including a first air sampling point in a passenger compartment of said motor vehicle. 10. The air quality monitoring system of claim 9, including a second air sampling point in said passenger compartment of said motor vehicle wherein said first air sampling point is motor vehicle forward of said second air sampling point. 11. The air quality monitoring system of claim 10, including a third air sampling point on said motor vehicle exterior to said passenger compartment. 12. The air quality monitoring system of claim 11, including a fourth air sampling point positioned in an air stream being delivered to said passenger compartment by an HVAC system of said motor vehicle. 13. The air quality monitoring system of claim 12, wherein said single air quality sensor is a particulate sensor. 14. A method of monitoring and controlling air quality in a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle, comprising:
discretely testing air quality of (a) a first air sample taken from a first air sampling point within said passenger compartment and (b) a second air sample taken from a second sampling point exterior to said passenger compartment by means of a single air quality sensor. 15. The method of claim 14, including discretely testing air quality of a third air sample taken from a third air sampling point within said passenger compartment by means of said single air quality sensor. 16. The method of claim 15, including discretely testing air quality of a fourth air sample taken from a fourth air sampling point positioned in an airstream being delivered to said passenger compartment by an HVAC system of said motor vehicle. 17. The method of claim 16, including directing said airstream through a filter of said HVAC system when air quality of at least one of said first air sample, said second air sample, said third air sample and said fourth air sample rise above a predetermined threshold level. 18. The method of claim 14, including separately drawing said first air sample from said first air sampling point and said second air sample from said second air sampling point through said single air quality sensor by means of a single air pump. 19. The method of claim 18, including providing a switching mechanism downstream from said first air sampling point and said second air sampling point and upstream from said single air quality sensor and said single air pump. 20. The method of claim 19, including controlling said switching mechanism by means of a controller. | 3,600 |
13,345 | 13,345 | 13,672,904 | 3,691 | Providing a discount for an insurance policy in connection with the purchase of a financial services product. The systems and methods of the present invention automatically apply a discount to an insurance policy held by a customer when the customer purchases and/or maintains a financial services account, such as a deposit account. The insurance policy discount is automatically discontinued when the financial services account is closed. | 1. A computer-based method for automatically providing a discount on insurance comprising the steps of:
determining, by a computer associated with an insurance company, that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution; determining, by the computer, that the customer has an insurance policy with the insurance company, wherein the insurance company is associated with the financial institution; automatically determining and applying, by the computer, a discount on a premium for the insurance policy based on the purchase of the financial services product, wherein determining the discount comprises:
identifying a group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an amount of the discount based on the determined actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group insurance policy customers; and
automatically discontinuing, by the computer, the discount on the premium for the insurance policy upon the computer receiving an indication that the financial services product has been discontinued. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the financial services product is a deposit account. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the insurance policy is an auto insurance policy. 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the financial institution and insurance company are part of the same company. 5. (previously canceled) 6. (previously canceled) 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of determining that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution further comprises the computer associated with an insurance company receiving an indication that the customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution from a computer associated with the financial institution. 8. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions to be implemented by a computer for automatically providing a discount on insurance, the instructions comprising:
determining, by a computer associated with an insurance company, that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution; determining, by the computer, that the customer has an insurance policy with the insurance company, wherein the insurance company is associated with the financial institution; automatically determining and applying, by the computer, a discount on a premium for the insurance policy based on the purchase of the financial services product, wherein determining the discount comprises:
identifying a group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an amount of the discount based on the determined actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group insurance policy customers; and
automatically discontinuing, by the computer, the discount on the premium for the insurance policy upon the computer receiving an indication that the financial services product has been discontinued. 9. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the financial services product is a deposit account. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 wherein the insurance policy is an auto insurance policy. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 wherein the financial institution and insurance company are part of the same company. 12. (previously canceled) 13. (previously canceled) 14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 wherein the instruction for determining that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution further comprises the computer associated with an insurance company receiving an indication that the customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution from a computer associated with the financial institution. | Providing a discount for an insurance policy in connection with the purchase of a financial services product. The systems and methods of the present invention automatically apply a discount to an insurance policy held by a customer when the customer purchases and/or maintains a financial services account, such as a deposit account. The insurance policy discount is automatically discontinued when the financial services account is closed.1. A computer-based method for automatically providing a discount on insurance comprising the steps of:
determining, by a computer associated with an insurance company, that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution; determining, by the computer, that the customer has an insurance policy with the insurance company, wherein the insurance company is associated with the financial institution; automatically determining and applying, by the computer, a discount on a premium for the insurance policy based on the purchase of the financial services product, wherein determining the discount comprises:
identifying a group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an amount of the discount based on the determined actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group insurance policy customers; and
automatically discontinuing, by the computer, the discount on the premium for the insurance policy upon the computer receiving an indication that the financial services product has been discontinued. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the financial services product is a deposit account. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the insurance policy is an auto insurance policy. 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the financial institution and insurance company are part of the same company. 5. (previously canceled) 6. (previously canceled) 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of determining that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution further comprises the computer associated with an insurance company receiving an indication that the customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution from a computer associated with the financial institution. 8. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions to be implemented by a computer for automatically providing a discount on insurance, the instructions comprising:
determining, by a computer associated with an insurance company, that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution; determining, by the computer, that the customer has an insurance policy with the insurance company, wherein the insurance company is associated with the financial institution; automatically determining and applying, by the computer, a discount on a premium for the insurance policy based on the purchase of the financial services product, wherein determining the discount comprises:
identifying a group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group of insurance policy customers that have purchased the financial services product;
determining an amount of the discount based on the determined actuarial risk profile associated with the identified group insurance policy customers; and
automatically discontinuing, by the computer, the discount on the premium for the insurance policy upon the computer receiving an indication that the financial services product has been discontinued. 9. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8, wherein the financial services product is a deposit account. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 wherein the insurance policy is an auto insurance policy. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 wherein the financial institution and insurance company are part of the same company. 12. (previously canceled) 13. (previously canceled) 14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 wherein the instruction for determining that a customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution further comprises the computer associated with an insurance company receiving an indication that the customer has purchased a financial services product from a financial institution from a computer associated with the financial institution. | 3,600 |
13,346 | 13,346 | 15,866,684 | 3,634 | A centrifugal brake assembly comprises a pawl and a rotor. The rotor includes a receiving portion configured and arranged to receive a portion of the pawl. The pawl is movable relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position. One of the pawl and the rotor has a curved slotted portion, and another of the pawl and the rotor has an elongated curved protrusion. The elongated curved protrusion at least partially extends within the curved slotted portion and moves generally along the curved slotted portion when the pawl moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position. | 1. (canceled) 2. (canceled) 3. (canceled) 4. A pawl and a rotor for use with a centrifugal brake assembly, comprising:
the rotor including a receiving portion configured and arranged to receive a portion of the pawl, the pawl being movable relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and one of the pawl and the rotor having a curved slotted portion, another of the pawl and the rotor having an elongated curved protrusion, the elongated curved protrusion at least partially extending within the curved slotted portion and moving generally along the curved slotted portion when the pawl moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position. 5. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the pawl includes the elongated curved protrusion and the rotor includes the slotted portion. 6. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the receiving portion of the rotor includes opposing first and second receiving portions and the pawl includes first and second pawls, each of the first and second receiving portions is configured and arranged to receive the portion of the respective first and second pawls. 7. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the portion of the pawl received within the receiving portion is a circular portion about which the pawl pivots relative to the rotor. 8. The pawl and the rotor of claim 7, wherein the circular portion, the elongated curved protrusion, and a triangular protrusion protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of the pawl. 9. The pawl and the rotor of claim 8, wherein the base portion of the pawl contacts the rotor in the engaged position. 10. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the portion of the pawl and a triangular protrusion protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of the pawl. 11. The pawl and the rotor of claim 10, wherein the base portion of the pawl contacts the rotor in the engaged position. 12. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the pawl includes first and second pawls and the receiving portion of the rotor includes first and second receiving portions, the first and second receiving portions configured and arranged to receive the respective first and second pawls. 13. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the pawl pivots relative to the rotor absent a pin on the pawl. 14. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein a biasing member is seated within the slotted portion, the biasing member held in place within the slotted portion without being fixedly attached to the rotor. 15. Pawls and a rotor for use with a centrifugal brake assembly, comprising:
first and second pawls, each of the first and second pawls including a base from which a pivoting portion and an engaging portion extend; the rotor including first and second receiving portions configured and arranged to receive the respective pivoting portions, each of the first and second pawls being movable relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and one of the first and second pawls and the rotor having first and second curved slotted portions, another of the first and second pawls and the rotor having first and second elongated curved protrusions, the first and second elongated curved protrusions at least partially extending within the respective curved slotted portions and moving generally along the curved slotted portions when each of the first and second pawls moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position. 16. The pawls and the rotor of claim 15, wherein the first and second pawls include respective first and second elongated curved protrusions and the rotor includes the first and second curved slotted portions. 17. The pawls and the rotor of claim 16, wherein the pivoting portion, the elongated curved protrusion, and a triangular protrusions protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of each of the first and second pawls. 18. The pawls and the rotor of claim 17, wherein the base portions are configured and arranged to contact the rotor when the first and second pawls are in the engaged position. 19. The pawls and the rotor of claim 15, wherein the first and second pawls pivot relative to the rotor absent pins on the pawls. 20. The pawl and the rotor of claim 15, wherein first and second biasing members are seated within the first and second curved slotted portions, respectively, the first and second biasing members held in place within the first and second curved slotted portions without being fixedly attached to the rotor. 21. A pawl and a rotor for use with a centrifugal brake assembly, comprising:
the pawl including a circular portion and an elongated curved protrusion; and the rotor including a receiving portion and a curved slotted portion, the receiving portion configured and arranged to receive the circular portion of the pawl, the pawl being pivotable about the circular portion relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the elongated curved protrusion at least partially extending within the curved slotted portion and moving generally along the curved slotted portion when the pawl moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position. 22. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein the receiving portion of the rotor includes opposing first and second receiving portions and the pawl includes first and second pawls, each of the first and second receiving portions is configured and arranged to receive the circular portion of the respective first and second pawls. 23. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein the circular portion, the elongated curved protrusion, and a triangular protrusion protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of the pawl. 24. The pawl and the rotor of claim 23, wherein the base portion of the pawl contacts the rotor in the engaged position. 25. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein the pawl pivots relative to the rotor absent a pin on the pawl. 26. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein a biasing member is seated within the slotted portion, the biasing member held in place within the slotted portion without being fixedly attached to the rotor. | A centrifugal brake assembly comprises a pawl and a rotor. The rotor includes a receiving portion configured and arranged to receive a portion of the pawl. The pawl is movable relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position. One of the pawl and the rotor has a curved slotted portion, and another of the pawl and the rotor has an elongated curved protrusion. The elongated curved protrusion at least partially extends within the curved slotted portion and moves generally along the curved slotted portion when the pawl moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position.1. (canceled) 2. (canceled) 3. (canceled) 4. A pawl and a rotor for use with a centrifugal brake assembly, comprising:
the rotor including a receiving portion configured and arranged to receive a portion of the pawl, the pawl being movable relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and one of the pawl and the rotor having a curved slotted portion, another of the pawl and the rotor having an elongated curved protrusion, the elongated curved protrusion at least partially extending within the curved slotted portion and moving generally along the curved slotted portion when the pawl moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position. 5. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the pawl includes the elongated curved protrusion and the rotor includes the slotted portion. 6. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the receiving portion of the rotor includes opposing first and second receiving portions and the pawl includes first and second pawls, each of the first and second receiving portions is configured and arranged to receive the portion of the respective first and second pawls. 7. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the portion of the pawl received within the receiving portion is a circular portion about which the pawl pivots relative to the rotor. 8. The pawl and the rotor of claim 7, wherein the circular portion, the elongated curved protrusion, and a triangular protrusion protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of the pawl. 9. The pawl and the rotor of claim 8, wherein the base portion of the pawl contacts the rotor in the engaged position. 10. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the portion of the pawl and a triangular protrusion protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of the pawl. 11. The pawl and the rotor of claim 10, wherein the base portion of the pawl contacts the rotor in the engaged position. 12. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the pawl includes first and second pawls and the receiving portion of the rotor includes first and second receiving portions, the first and second receiving portions configured and arranged to receive the respective first and second pawls. 13. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein the pawl pivots relative to the rotor absent a pin on the pawl. 14. The pawl and the rotor of claim 4, wherein a biasing member is seated within the slotted portion, the biasing member held in place within the slotted portion without being fixedly attached to the rotor. 15. Pawls and a rotor for use with a centrifugal brake assembly, comprising:
first and second pawls, each of the first and second pawls including a base from which a pivoting portion and an engaging portion extend; the rotor including first and second receiving portions configured and arranged to receive the respective pivoting portions, each of the first and second pawls being movable relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and one of the first and second pawls and the rotor having first and second curved slotted portions, another of the first and second pawls and the rotor having first and second elongated curved protrusions, the first and second elongated curved protrusions at least partially extending within the respective curved slotted portions and moving generally along the curved slotted portions when each of the first and second pawls moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position. 16. The pawls and the rotor of claim 15, wherein the first and second pawls include respective first and second elongated curved protrusions and the rotor includes the first and second curved slotted portions. 17. The pawls and the rotor of claim 16, wherein the pivoting portion, the elongated curved protrusion, and a triangular protrusions protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of each of the first and second pawls. 18. The pawls and the rotor of claim 17, wherein the base portions are configured and arranged to contact the rotor when the first and second pawls are in the engaged position. 19. The pawls and the rotor of claim 15, wherein the first and second pawls pivot relative to the rotor absent pins on the pawls. 20. The pawl and the rotor of claim 15, wherein first and second biasing members are seated within the first and second curved slotted portions, respectively, the first and second biasing members held in place within the first and second curved slotted portions without being fixedly attached to the rotor. 21. A pawl and a rotor for use with a centrifugal brake assembly, comprising:
the pawl including a circular portion and an elongated curved protrusion; and the rotor including a receiving portion and a curved slotted portion, the receiving portion configured and arranged to receive the circular portion of the pawl, the pawl being pivotable about the circular portion relative to the rotor between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the elongated curved protrusion at least partially extending within the curved slotted portion and moving generally along the curved slotted portion when the pawl moves between the engaged position and the disengaged position. 22. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein the receiving portion of the rotor includes opposing first and second receiving portions and the pawl includes first and second pawls, each of the first and second receiving portions is configured and arranged to receive the circular portion of the respective first and second pawls. 23. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein the circular portion, the elongated curved protrusion, and a triangular protrusion protrude outwardly from a generally rectangular base portion of the pawl. 24. The pawl and the rotor of claim 23, wherein the base portion of the pawl contacts the rotor in the engaged position. 25. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein the pawl pivots relative to the rotor absent a pin on the pawl. 26. The pawl and the rotor of claim 21, wherein a biasing member is seated within the slotted portion, the biasing member held in place within the slotted portion without being fixedly attached to the rotor. | 3,600 |
13,347 | 13,347 | 13,092,188 | 3,687 | Product inventory is tracked from a raw product form through sale/disposal in association with a specific consumer. Procession of a specific product is monitored, in association with the specific consumer, from a raw form of the product through processing and distribution. Disposal of at least one of a portion of the raw form of the specific product and a portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product is tracked in association with the specific consumer. Inventory of the specific product is updated based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the specific product and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product. | 1. A method for tracking product inventory, comprising:
monitoring, in association with a specific consumer, procession of a specific product through at least one stage from a raw form to processing and distribution; tracking, in association with the specific consumer, disposal of at least one of at least a portion of the raw form of the specific product and at least a portion of a product resulting from processing the specific product; and updating inventory of the specific product based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the raw form of the specific product and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the specific product is a plant, progression of the plant is monitored through at least one stage from planting to processing and distribution, and disposal of at least one of a portion of the plant or a portion of a product resulting from processing the plant is tracked. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the specific product is a medicinal plant, and the specific consumer is a patient, the method further comprising tracking and safeguarding patient data. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein disposal includes sale of at least a portion of the specific product to the specific consumer. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein updating inventory includes deducting an amount of the specific product from inventory upon sale of the portion of the specific product. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the amount of the product deducted from inventory is greater or less than an amount of the product for which the specific consumer is charged. 7. The method of claim 4, wherein a price of the portion of the specific product is based on at least one of a weight of the portion of the specific product and the specific consumer to which the portion of the specific product is sold. 8. A device for tracking inventory, comprising:
an interface configured to receive and transmit information regarding a specific product associated with a specific consumer; and a processor configured to:
monitor, in association with the specific consumer, procession of the specific product through at least one stage from a raw form to processing into a product and distribution;
track disposal of at least one of at least a portion of the raw form and at least a portion of a product resulting from processing the specific product, in association with the specific consumer; and
update inventory of the specific product based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the raw form and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the specific product is a medicinal plant, and the specific consumer is a patient. 10. The device of claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to track and safeguard patient data. 11. The device of claim 8, wherein disposal includes sale of at least a portion of the product resulting from processing of the specific product. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein updating inventory includes deducting an amount of the specific product from inventory upon sale of the portion of the specific product. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the amount of the specific product deducted from inventory is greater or less than an amount of the specific product for which the specific consumer is charged. 14. The device of claim 11, wherein a price of the portion of the specific product is based on at least one of a weight of the portion of the specific product and the specific consumer to which the portion of the specific product is sold. 15. A computer program product including a storage medium upon which instructions are recorded that, when executed by a processor perform acts comprising:
monitoring, in association with a specific consumer, procession of a specific product through at least one stage from raw form to processing and distribution; tracking, in association with the specific consumer, disposal of at least one of a portion of the raw product and a portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product; and updating inventory of the specific product based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the raw product and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the specific product is a medicinal plant, and the specific consumer is a patient. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the processor further performs acts comprising tracking and safeguarding patient data. 18. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein disposal includes sale of at least a portion of the product resulting from processing of the specific product. 19. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein updating inventory includes deducting an amount of the specific product from inventory upon sale of the portion of the specific product. 20. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the amount of the specific product deducted from inventory is greater or less than an amount of the specific product for which the specific consumer is charged. | Product inventory is tracked from a raw product form through sale/disposal in association with a specific consumer. Procession of a specific product is monitored, in association with the specific consumer, from a raw form of the product through processing and distribution. Disposal of at least one of a portion of the raw form of the specific product and a portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product is tracked in association with the specific consumer. Inventory of the specific product is updated based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the specific product and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product.1. A method for tracking product inventory, comprising:
monitoring, in association with a specific consumer, procession of a specific product through at least one stage from a raw form to processing and distribution; tracking, in association with the specific consumer, disposal of at least one of at least a portion of the raw form of the specific product and at least a portion of a product resulting from processing the specific product; and updating inventory of the specific product based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the raw form of the specific product and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the specific product is a plant, progression of the plant is monitored through at least one stage from planting to processing and distribution, and disposal of at least one of a portion of the plant or a portion of a product resulting from processing the plant is tracked. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the specific product is a medicinal plant, and the specific consumer is a patient, the method further comprising tracking and safeguarding patient data. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein disposal includes sale of at least a portion of the specific product to the specific consumer. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein updating inventory includes deducting an amount of the specific product from inventory upon sale of the portion of the specific product. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the amount of the product deducted from inventory is greater or less than an amount of the product for which the specific consumer is charged. 7. The method of claim 4, wherein a price of the portion of the specific product is based on at least one of a weight of the portion of the specific product and the specific consumer to which the portion of the specific product is sold. 8. A device for tracking inventory, comprising:
an interface configured to receive and transmit information regarding a specific product associated with a specific consumer; and a processor configured to:
monitor, in association with the specific consumer, procession of the specific product through at least one stage from a raw form to processing into a product and distribution;
track disposal of at least one of at least a portion of the raw form and at least a portion of a product resulting from processing the specific product, in association with the specific consumer; and
update inventory of the specific product based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the raw form and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the specific product is a medicinal plant, and the specific consumer is a patient. 10. The device of claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to track and safeguard patient data. 11. The device of claim 8, wherein disposal includes sale of at least a portion of the product resulting from processing of the specific product. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein updating inventory includes deducting an amount of the specific product from inventory upon sale of the portion of the specific product. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the amount of the specific product deducted from inventory is greater or less than an amount of the specific product for which the specific consumer is charged. 14. The device of claim 11, wherein a price of the portion of the specific product is based on at least one of a weight of the portion of the specific product and the specific consumer to which the portion of the specific product is sold. 15. A computer program product including a storage medium upon which instructions are recorded that, when executed by a processor perform acts comprising:
monitoring, in association with a specific consumer, procession of a specific product through at least one stage from raw form to processing and distribution; tracking, in association with the specific consumer, disposal of at least one of a portion of the raw product and a portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product; and updating inventory of the specific product based on the disposal of at least one of the portion of the raw product and the portion of the product resulting from processing the specific product. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the specific product is a medicinal plant, and the specific consumer is a patient. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the processor further performs acts comprising tracking and safeguarding patient data. 18. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein disposal includes sale of at least a portion of the product resulting from processing of the specific product. 19. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein updating inventory includes deducting an amount of the specific product from inventory upon sale of the portion of the specific product. 20. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the amount of the specific product deducted from inventory is greater or less than an amount of the specific product for which the specific consumer is charged. | 3,600 |
13,348 | 13,348 | 13,829,110 | 3,628 | Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for analyzing transaction data for a plurality of transactions to determine an order of priority for reviewing the transactions. A merchant processor server computer receives transaction data related to a plurality of transactions and determines which transactions are fraudulent, which transactions are not fraudulent and which transactions are indeterminate. The merchant processor server computer analyzes the transaction data for indeterminate transactions to determine which transactions have higher priority based on priority rules and reorders the transactions for review based on the priority. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving first transaction data for a first transaction; analyzing, by a server computer, the first transaction data to determine if the first transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining, by the server computer, that the first transaction is indeterminate; storing the first transaction data in a queue for review; after receiving the first transaction data, receiving second transaction data for a second transaction; analyzing, by the server computer, the second transaction data to determine if the second transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining, by the server computer, that the second transaction is indeterminate; storing the second transaction data in the queue for review; analyzing, by the server computer, the first transaction data and the second transaction data to determine which of the first and second transactions has higher priority; determining, by the server computer, that the second transaction has higher priority; and reordering the queue so that the second transaction is reviewed before the first transaction. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a second consumer conducting the second transaction will receive goods or services before a first consumer conducting the first transaction will receive goods or services. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the second transaction is for the purchase of goods that are perishable and the first transaction is for goods that are not perishable. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second transactions are electronic commerce transactions. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing merchandise and the second transaction is for purchasing a ticket for a same day event. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a next day flight and the second transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a same day flight. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining, by the server computer, that the second transaction has higher priority is based on priority rules specific to a merchant associated with the first and the second transactions. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
processing second transaction before the first transaction. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first transaction data and the second transaction data include one or more of a consumer identification information, an account identifier, a transaction amount, a merchant identifier, a product description, a merchant category, a date and time. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the server computer is operatively coupled to a payment processing network that is located between a plurality of issuers and acquirers. 11. A server computer comprising:
a processor; a computer readable medium coupled to the processor, the computer readable medium comprising code, executable by the processor for implementing a method comprising: receiving first transaction data for a first transaction; analyzing the first transaction data to determine if the first transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining that the first transaction is indeterminate; storing the first transaction data in a queue for review; after receiving the first transaction data, receiving second transaction data for a second transaction; analyzing the second transaction data to determine if the second transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining that the second transaction is indeterminate; storing the second transaction data in the queue for review; analyzing the first transaction data and the second transaction data to determine which of the first and second transactions has higher priority; determining that the second transaction has higher priority; and reordering the queue so that the second transaction is reviewed before the first transaction. 12. The server computer of claim 11, wherein a second consumer conducting the second transaction will receive goods or services before a first consumer conducting the first transaction will receive goods or services. 13. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the second transaction is for the purchase of goods that are perishable and the first transaction is for goods that are not perishable. 14. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first and second transactions are electronic commerce transactions. 15. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing merchandise and the second transaction is for purchasing a ticket for a same day event. 16. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a next day flight and the second transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a same day flight. 17. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the determining that the second transaction has higher priority is based on priority rules specific to a merchant associated with the first and the second transactions. 18. The server computer of claim 11, further comprising:
processing second transaction before the first transaction. 19. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first transaction data and the second transaction data include one or more of a consumer identification information, an account identifier, a transaction amount, a merchant identifier, a product description, a merchant category, a date and time. 20. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the server computer is operatively coupled to a payment processing network that is located between a plurality of issuers and acquirers. | Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for analyzing transaction data for a plurality of transactions to determine an order of priority for reviewing the transactions. A merchant processor server computer receives transaction data related to a plurality of transactions and determines which transactions are fraudulent, which transactions are not fraudulent and which transactions are indeterminate. The merchant processor server computer analyzes the transaction data for indeterminate transactions to determine which transactions have higher priority based on priority rules and reorders the transactions for review based on the priority.1. A method comprising:
receiving first transaction data for a first transaction; analyzing, by a server computer, the first transaction data to determine if the first transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining, by the server computer, that the first transaction is indeterminate; storing the first transaction data in a queue for review; after receiving the first transaction data, receiving second transaction data for a second transaction; analyzing, by the server computer, the second transaction data to determine if the second transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining, by the server computer, that the second transaction is indeterminate; storing the second transaction data in the queue for review; analyzing, by the server computer, the first transaction data and the second transaction data to determine which of the first and second transactions has higher priority; determining, by the server computer, that the second transaction has higher priority; and reordering the queue so that the second transaction is reviewed before the first transaction. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a second consumer conducting the second transaction will receive goods or services before a first consumer conducting the first transaction will receive goods or services. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the second transaction is for the purchase of goods that are perishable and the first transaction is for goods that are not perishable. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second transactions are electronic commerce transactions. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing merchandise and the second transaction is for purchasing a ticket for a same day event. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a next day flight and the second transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a same day flight. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining, by the server computer, that the second transaction has higher priority is based on priority rules specific to a merchant associated with the first and the second transactions. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
processing second transaction before the first transaction. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first transaction data and the second transaction data include one or more of a consumer identification information, an account identifier, a transaction amount, a merchant identifier, a product description, a merchant category, a date and time. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the server computer is operatively coupled to a payment processing network that is located between a plurality of issuers and acquirers. 11. A server computer comprising:
a processor; a computer readable medium coupled to the processor, the computer readable medium comprising code, executable by the processor for implementing a method comprising: receiving first transaction data for a first transaction; analyzing the first transaction data to determine if the first transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining that the first transaction is indeterminate; storing the first transaction data in a queue for review; after receiving the first transaction data, receiving second transaction data for a second transaction; analyzing the second transaction data to determine if the second transaction is fraudulent, not fraudulent or indeterminate; determining that the second transaction is indeterminate; storing the second transaction data in the queue for review; analyzing the first transaction data and the second transaction data to determine which of the first and second transactions has higher priority; determining that the second transaction has higher priority; and reordering the queue so that the second transaction is reviewed before the first transaction. 12. The server computer of claim 11, wherein a second consumer conducting the second transaction will receive goods or services before a first consumer conducting the first transaction will receive goods or services. 13. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the second transaction is for the purchase of goods that are perishable and the first transaction is for goods that are not perishable. 14. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first and second transactions are electronic commerce transactions. 15. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing merchandise and the second transaction is for purchasing a ticket for a same day event. 16. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a next day flight and the second transaction is for purchasing an airline ticket for a same day flight. 17. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the determining that the second transaction has higher priority is based on priority rules specific to a merchant associated with the first and the second transactions. 18. The server computer of claim 11, further comprising:
processing second transaction before the first transaction. 19. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the first transaction data and the second transaction data include one or more of a consumer identification information, an account identifier, a transaction amount, a merchant identifier, a product description, a merchant category, a date and time. 20. The server computer of claim 11, wherein the server computer is operatively coupled to a payment processing network that is located between a plurality of issuers and acquirers. | 3,600 |
13,349 | 13,349 | 13,933,598 | 3,624 | A social networking system identifies communications about an object associated with a brand owner. For each communication, the social networking system identifies users who were generated the communication, users who were exposed to the communication, and users who were not exposed to the communication. The social networking system measures the impact of the communications on the behavior and/or sentiment of the users towards the brand owner. For example, the social networking system presents users with surveys after presentation of a communication about an object associated with a brand owner and determines the impact of the communication from the responses to the survey. The impact of the communications may then be reported to the brand owner. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving one or more communications from a user of a social networking system identifying one or more objects maintained by the social networking system associated with a brand owner; determining an impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system, the impact based on actions by one or more additional users identified by the social networking system and associated with an object identified by a received communication; determining one or more groups of users based at least in part on exposure to a received communication by one or more additional users; generating a report based on the determined impact of each of the communications and the one or more groups of users, the report describing the impact of the one or more communications on the one or more groups of users; and sending the report for presentation to the brand owner. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving one or more communications from a user of a social networking system identifying one or more objects maintained by the social networking system associated with a brand owner comprises:
receiving one or more communications from the user of the social networking system identifying one or more objects associated with the brand owner; determining a sentiment associated with one or more of the received communications. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the sentiment associated with a received communication is selected from a group consisting of: a positive sentiment, a negative sentiment, and a neutral sentiment. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the sentiment associated with one or more of the received communications comprises:
parsing text content included in a received communication; and determining the sentiment of the received communication based at least in part on the parsed text content. 5. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the sentiment associated with one or more of the received communications comprises:
retrieving structured data associated with a received communication; and determining the sentiment of the received communication based at least in part on the structured data. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
identifying a communication of an additional user of the social networking system after the additional user received a communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the object from the communication of the additional user of the social networking system. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
providing a survey to an additional user of the social networking system that received a communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; receiving a response to the survey from the additional user of the social networking system that received the communication from the user identifying the object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the brand owner from the response to the survey. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
identifying an action by an additional user of the social networking system after the additional user received a communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the object from the communication of the additional user of the social networking system based on the action. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the action by the additional user of the social networking system comprises a purchase associated with the brand owner. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein determining one or more groups of users based at least in part on exposure to the received communication by one or more additional users comprises:
identifying the user from which the one or more communications were received; identifying one or more additional users receiving at least one of the one or more communications; and identifying one or more additional users that did not receive at least one of the one or more communications. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein determining one or more groups of users based at least in part on exposure to the received communication by one or more additional users comprises:
identifying one or more additional users that received at least one communication from the one or more communications and having a threshold similarity with the user from which the one or more communications were received. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein an additional user having the threshold similarity with the user from which the one or more communications were received is selected from a group consisting of: additional users having a connection to the user from which the one or more communications were received, additional users having a threshold amount of user profile information similar to user profile information of the user from which the one or more communications were received, additional users having performed a threshold number of actions similar to actions performed by the user from which the one or more communications were received, and any combination thereof. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
generating a score for each communication indicating a magnitude of the impact on the one or more additional users of the social networking system. 14. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the report based on the determined impact of the received communication on the one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
determining a sentiment for the brand owner from one or more of the communications; generating the report based at least in part on the determined sentiment and on the impact of the one or more communications on the one or more groups of users. 15. A method comprising:
receiving a request to determine an impact on users of a social networking system of one or more communications associated with one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with a brand owner; receiving a communication from a user of the social networking system for presentation to one or more additional users of the social networking system; determining whether the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner; determining an impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication if the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner; generating a report based on the determined impact of the received communication on the one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication; and sending the report for presentation to the brand owner. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein determining whether the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner comprises:
determining whether the received communication includes a tag associated with the one or more objects. 17. The method of claim 15, wherein determining whether the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner comprises:
determining a sentiment towards the brand owner responsive to determining the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner. 18. The method of claim 15, wherein determining the impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
identifying a communication of an additional user of the social networking system after the additional user was presented with the received communication; and determining a sentiment associated with an object associated with the communication of the additional user of the social networking system. 19. The method of claim 15, wherein determining the impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
providing a survey to an additional user of the social networking system presented with the received communication; receiving a response to the survey from the additional user of the social networking system that received the communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the brand owner from the response to the survey. 20. The method of claim 15, wherein determining the impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
identifying an action by an additional user of the social networking system presented with the received communication; and determining a sentiment associated with an object identified by the received communication based on the action. | A social networking system identifies communications about an object associated with a brand owner. For each communication, the social networking system identifies users who were generated the communication, users who were exposed to the communication, and users who were not exposed to the communication. The social networking system measures the impact of the communications on the behavior and/or sentiment of the users towards the brand owner. For example, the social networking system presents users with surveys after presentation of a communication about an object associated with a brand owner and determines the impact of the communication from the responses to the survey. The impact of the communications may then be reported to the brand owner.1. A method comprising:
receiving one or more communications from a user of a social networking system identifying one or more objects maintained by the social networking system associated with a brand owner; determining an impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system, the impact based on actions by one or more additional users identified by the social networking system and associated with an object identified by a received communication; determining one or more groups of users based at least in part on exposure to a received communication by one or more additional users; generating a report based on the determined impact of each of the communications and the one or more groups of users, the report describing the impact of the one or more communications on the one or more groups of users; and sending the report for presentation to the brand owner. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving one or more communications from a user of a social networking system identifying one or more objects maintained by the social networking system associated with a brand owner comprises:
receiving one or more communications from the user of the social networking system identifying one or more objects associated with the brand owner; determining a sentiment associated with one or more of the received communications. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the sentiment associated with a received communication is selected from a group consisting of: a positive sentiment, a negative sentiment, and a neutral sentiment. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the sentiment associated with one or more of the received communications comprises:
parsing text content included in a received communication; and determining the sentiment of the received communication based at least in part on the parsed text content. 5. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the sentiment associated with one or more of the received communications comprises:
retrieving structured data associated with a received communication; and determining the sentiment of the received communication based at least in part on the structured data. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
identifying a communication of an additional user of the social networking system after the additional user received a communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the object from the communication of the additional user of the social networking system. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
providing a survey to an additional user of the social networking system that received a communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; receiving a response to the survey from the additional user of the social networking system that received the communication from the user identifying the object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the brand owner from the response to the survey. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
identifying an action by an additional user of the social networking system after the additional user received a communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the object from the communication of the additional user of the social networking system based on the action. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the action by the additional user of the social networking system comprises a purchase associated with the brand owner. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein determining one or more groups of users based at least in part on exposure to the received communication by one or more additional users comprises:
identifying the user from which the one or more communications were received; identifying one or more additional users receiving at least one of the one or more communications; and identifying one or more additional users that did not receive at least one of the one or more communications. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein determining one or more groups of users based at least in part on exposure to the received communication by one or more additional users comprises:
identifying one or more additional users that received at least one communication from the one or more communications and having a threshold similarity with the user from which the one or more communications were received. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein an additional user having the threshold similarity with the user from which the one or more communications were received is selected from a group consisting of: additional users having a connection to the user from which the one or more communications were received, additional users having a threshold amount of user profile information similar to user profile information of the user from which the one or more communications were received, additional users having performed a threshold number of actions similar to actions performed by the user from which the one or more communications were received, and any combination thereof. 13. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the impact of each of the communications on one or more additional users of the social networking system comprises:
generating a score for each communication indicating a magnitude of the impact on the one or more additional users of the social networking system. 14. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the report based on the determined impact of the received communication on the one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
determining a sentiment for the brand owner from one or more of the communications; generating the report based at least in part on the determined sentiment and on the impact of the one or more communications on the one or more groups of users. 15. A method comprising:
receiving a request to determine an impact on users of a social networking system of one or more communications associated with one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with a brand owner; receiving a communication from a user of the social networking system for presentation to one or more additional users of the social networking system; determining whether the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner; determining an impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication if the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner; generating a report based on the determined impact of the received communication on the one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication; and sending the report for presentation to the brand owner. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein determining whether the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner comprises:
determining whether the received communication includes a tag associated with the one or more objects. 17. The method of claim 15, wherein determining whether the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner comprises:
determining a sentiment towards the brand owner responsive to determining the received communication identifies at least one of the one or more objects maintained by the social networking system and associated with the brand owner. 18. The method of claim 15, wherein determining the impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
identifying a communication of an additional user of the social networking system after the additional user was presented with the received communication; and determining a sentiment associated with an object associated with the communication of the additional user of the social networking system. 19. The method of claim 15, wherein determining the impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
providing a survey to an additional user of the social networking system presented with the received communication; receiving a response to the survey from the additional user of the social networking system that received the communication from the user identifying an object associated with the brand owner; and determining a sentiment associated with the brand owner from the response to the survey. 20. The method of claim 15, wherein determining the impact of the received communication on one or more additional users of the social networking system presented with the received communication comprises:
identifying an action by an additional user of the social networking system presented with the received communication; and determining a sentiment associated with an object identified by the received communication based on the action. | 3,600 |
13,350 | 13,350 | 14,448,974 | 3,697 | A network based construction project management system. The system includes network accessible databases of project information including drawings and specifications. The system allows for varying amount of access for various user including general contractors, subcontractors, architects and project owners. The system allows for the effective creation, management and long term accessible storage of project submittals. | 1. A method of planning a construction project including the steps of:
storing material specification information on a component of a computer network, said component of said computer network being controlled by a subscription service provider; storing user information on said component of said computer network, said user information including user credentials; receiving design parameters for a construction project; providing a list of materials capable of meeting said design parameters for said construction project from said computer network; and providing a list of users with credentials necessary to complete said construction project. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein said computer network comprises the Internet. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein providing said lists includes granting a user access to said computer network through one or more access points, at least one of said access points being a PDA or other portable device. 4. The method as claimed in claim 3 further comprising the step of providing a limited set of capabilities to said PDA from a larger set of capabilities provided to other access points. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said computer network includes a project bidding system that is controlled by said subscription service provider. 6. The method as claimed in claim 5 wherein information from said bidding system may be accessed for utilization in a submittal document. 7. The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein said bidding system utilizes a method for receiving bids comprising the steps of:
posting a bid request on said computer network; receiving sealed electronic bids over said computer network; storing said sealed bids unopened until a specified time; essentially simultaneously opening all said sealed bids at an electronic bid opening accessible to bidders via said computer network. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said user information includes a number of unfinished jobs associated with a user and whether any of those jobs are classified as being behind schedule. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising the step of deducting a fee from a prepaid account for each list that is requested. 10. The method as claimed in claim 9 further comprising the step of notifying a system user when said prepaid account falls below a threshold level. 11. A method of managing a construction project comprising:
storing job information for at least one construction project, said job information being stored on a component of a computer network, said component of said computer network being controlled by a subscription service provider; storing user information on said component of said computer network; granting a first user access to at least a portion of said job information; receiving a request for payment from a second user, said request for payment being received through said computer network; receiving approval of said request for payment from said first user, said approval being received through said computer network; and notifying a payor of said approval of said request for payment. 12. The method as claimed in claim 11 wherein said first user is a general contractor and said second user is a sub-contractor. 13. The method as claimed in claim 11 further comprising the step of granting said second user access to at least a portion of said job information for the at least one construction project. 14. The method as claimed in claim 11 further comprising the step of limiting access to said request for payment to specified users of said subscription service provider. 15. The method as claimed in claim 11 wherein said computer network includes a project bidding system that is controlled by said subscription service provider. 16. The method as claimed in claim 15 wherein information from said bidding system may be accessed for utilization in a submittal document. 17. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein said bidding system utilizes a method for receiving bids comprising the steps of:
posting a bid request on said computer network; receiving sealed electronic bids over said computer network; storing said sealed bids unopened until a specified time; essentially simultaneously opening all said sealed bids at an electronic bid opening accessible to bidders via said computer network. 18. The method as claimed in claim 11 further comprising the step of storing information regarding a change order associated with the at least one construction project, said information including a description of the change, materials involved, time involved, whether it is necessary to extend the original estimated completion date, costs associated with the change order, and authorization for the change order. 19. A method of estimating the cost of a construction project, said method comprising the steps of:
storing material specification information on a component of a computer network, said component of said computer network being controlled by a subscription service provider; storing prevailing wage rates on said component of said computer network, said prevailing wage rates being classified by prearranged trade areas; receiving design parameters for a construction project; and providing archived information pertaining to previous construction projects. 20. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein said computer network includes a project bidding system that is controlled by said subscription service provider, said bidding system utilizing a method for receiving bids comprising the steps of:
posting a bid request on said computer network; receiving sealed electronic bids over said computer network; storing said sealed bids unopened until a specified time; essentially simultaneously opening all said sealed bids at an electronic bid opening accessible to bidders via said computer network. | A network based construction project management system. The system includes network accessible databases of project information including drawings and specifications. The system allows for varying amount of access for various user including general contractors, subcontractors, architects and project owners. The system allows for the effective creation, management and long term accessible storage of project submittals.1. A method of planning a construction project including the steps of:
storing material specification information on a component of a computer network, said component of said computer network being controlled by a subscription service provider; storing user information on said component of said computer network, said user information including user credentials; receiving design parameters for a construction project; providing a list of materials capable of meeting said design parameters for said construction project from said computer network; and providing a list of users with credentials necessary to complete said construction project. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein said computer network comprises the Internet. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein providing said lists includes granting a user access to said computer network through one or more access points, at least one of said access points being a PDA or other portable device. 4. The method as claimed in claim 3 further comprising the step of providing a limited set of capabilities to said PDA from a larger set of capabilities provided to other access points. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said computer network includes a project bidding system that is controlled by said subscription service provider. 6. The method as claimed in claim 5 wherein information from said bidding system may be accessed for utilization in a submittal document. 7. The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein said bidding system utilizes a method for receiving bids comprising the steps of:
posting a bid request on said computer network; receiving sealed electronic bids over said computer network; storing said sealed bids unopened until a specified time; essentially simultaneously opening all said sealed bids at an electronic bid opening accessible to bidders via said computer network. 8. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said user information includes a number of unfinished jobs associated with a user and whether any of those jobs are classified as being behind schedule. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising the step of deducting a fee from a prepaid account for each list that is requested. 10. The method as claimed in claim 9 further comprising the step of notifying a system user when said prepaid account falls below a threshold level. 11. A method of managing a construction project comprising:
storing job information for at least one construction project, said job information being stored on a component of a computer network, said component of said computer network being controlled by a subscription service provider; storing user information on said component of said computer network; granting a first user access to at least a portion of said job information; receiving a request for payment from a second user, said request for payment being received through said computer network; receiving approval of said request for payment from said first user, said approval being received through said computer network; and notifying a payor of said approval of said request for payment. 12. The method as claimed in claim 11 wherein said first user is a general contractor and said second user is a sub-contractor. 13. The method as claimed in claim 11 further comprising the step of granting said second user access to at least a portion of said job information for the at least one construction project. 14. The method as claimed in claim 11 further comprising the step of limiting access to said request for payment to specified users of said subscription service provider. 15. The method as claimed in claim 11 wherein said computer network includes a project bidding system that is controlled by said subscription service provider. 16. The method as claimed in claim 15 wherein information from said bidding system may be accessed for utilization in a submittal document. 17. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein said bidding system utilizes a method for receiving bids comprising the steps of:
posting a bid request on said computer network; receiving sealed electronic bids over said computer network; storing said sealed bids unopened until a specified time; essentially simultaneously opening all said sealed bids at an electronic bid opening accessible to bidders via said computer network. 18. The method as claimed in claim 11 further comprising the step of storing information regarding a change order associated with the at least one construction project, said information including a description of the change, materials involved, time involved, whether it is necessary to extend the original estimated completion date, costs associated with the change order, and authorization for the change order. 19. A method of estimating the cost of a construction project, said method comprising the steps of:
storing material specification information on a component of a computer network, said component of said computer network being controlled by a subscription service provider; storing prevailing wage rates on said component of said computer network, said prevailing wage rates being classified by prearranged trade areas; receiving design parameters for a construction project; and providing archived information pertaining to previous construction projects. 20. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein said computer network includes a project bidding system that is controlled by said subscription service provider, said bidding system utilizing a method for receiving bids comprising the steps of:
posting a bid request on said computer network; receiving sealed electronic bids over said computer network; storing said sealed bids unopened until a specified time; essentially simultaneously opening all said sealed bids at an electronic bid opening accessible to bidders via said computer network. | 3,600 |
13,351 | 13,351 | 14,223,505 | 3,687 | A method and system for receiving digital artifacts from a management server. The method includes sending a request for a digital artifact from a mobile application to the management server for display within a specific mobile application generated screen, receiving the digital artifact from the management server, and displaying the digital artifact with the specific mobile application generated screen. | 1. A method, comprising:
maintaining a mobile application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, wherein the mobile application is non browser based and is preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, and a mobile device radio interface; sending a request to a management server for a coupon t for display within a specific mobile application generated screen, the mobile application screen corresponding to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and coupons and selects the coupon based on correlating targeting parameters; receiving the coupon from the management server; and displaying the coupon within the specific mobile application generated screen. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the wherein the coupon includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the secondary call-to-action comprises entering an email address, accepting the coupon, accepting a reward, opt-in for alerts, and opt-in for notifications. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein a data exchange between the mobile application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the mobile application running on the mobile device to access coupon t result of the data exchange. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 7. The method of claim 1, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein personal information comprises location, gender, age, interest, affiliation userid, pageid, zip code, area code, and occupation. 9. The method of claim 7, wherein transaction history comprises contactless transactions made using a secure element coupled to the mobile communication device, internet commerce, bill pay, top spend categories, merchants, storage of banking information, accessing banking services, tickets, transactions made by the user but not through the mobile communication device, and raw data downloaded from banks. 10. The method of claim 1, further wherein coupons are sent to the mobile application based on one or more of a shopping list, preferences, previous shopping history, or proximity to a physical retail store. 11. A mobile device, comprising:
a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, the mobile device memory configured to maintain a mobile application, wherein the mobile application is non browser based and is preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device; a mobile device application configured to send a request for a coupon for display within a specific mobile application generated screen to a management server and receive coupon from the management server, the specific mobile application screen corresponding to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and coupons and selects the coupon based on correlating targeting parameters; and a mobile application configured to display the coupon within the specific mobile application generated screen. 12. The mobile device of claim 11, wherein the coupon includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 13. The mobile device of claim 12, wherein the secondary call-to-action comprises entering an email address, accepting the coupon, accepting a reward, opt-in for alerts, and opt-in for notifications. 14. The mobile device of claim 11, wherein a data exchange between the mobile application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the mobile application running on the mobile device to access coupon t as a result of the data exchange. 15. The mobile device of claim 14, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 16. The mobile device of claim 15, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 17. The mobile device of claim 11, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 18. The mobile device of claim 17, wherein personal information comprises location, gender, age, interest, affiliation ,userid, pageid, zip code, area code, and occupation. 19. The mobile device of claim 17, wherein transaction history comprises contactless transactions made using a secure element coupled to the mobile communication device, internet commerce, bill pay, top spend categories, merchants, storage of banking information, accessing banking services, tickets, transactions made by the user but not through the mobile communication device, and raw data downloaded from banks. 20. A non-transitory computer readable medium, comprising:
computer code for maintaining a mobile application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, wherein the mobile application is non browser based and is preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, and a mobile device radio interface; computer code for sending a request to a management server for a coupon for display within a specific mobile application generated screen, the specific mobile application screen corresponding to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and coupons and selects the coupon based on correlating targeting parameters; computer code for receiving the coupon from the management server; and computer code for displaying the coupon within the specific mobile application generated screen. | A method and system for receiving digital artifacts from a management server. The method includes sending a request for a digital artifact from a mobile application to the management server for display within a specific mobile application generated screen, receiving the digital artifact from the management server, and displaying the digital artifact with the specific mobile application generated screen.1. A method, comprising:
maintaining a mobile application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, wherein the mobile application is non browser based and is preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, and a mobile device radio interface; sending a request to a management server for a coupon t for display within a specific mobile application generated screen, the mobile application screen corresponding to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and coupons and selects the coupon based on correlating targeting parameters; receiving the coupon from the management server; and displaying the coupon within the specific mobile application generated screen. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the wherein the coupon includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the secondary call-to-action comprises entering an email address, accepting the coupon, accepting a reward, opt-in for alerts, and opt-in for notifications. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein a data exchange between the mobile application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the mobile application running on the mobile device to access coupon t result of the data exchange. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 7. The method of claim 1, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein personal information comprises location, gender, age, interest, affiliation userid, pageid, zip code, area code, and occupation. 9. The method of claim 7, wherein transaction history comprises contactless transactions made using a secure element coupled to the mobile communication device, internet commerce, bill pay, top spend categories, merchants, storage of banking information, accessing banking services, tickets, transactions made by the user but not through the mobile communication device, and raw data downloaded from banks. 10. The method of claim 1, further wherein coupons are sent to the mobile application based on one or more of a shopping list, preferences, previous shopping history, or proximity to a physical retail store. 11. A mobile device, comprising:
a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, the mobile device memory configured to maintain a mobile application, wherein the mobile application is non browser based and is preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device; a mobile device application configured to send a request for a coupon for display within a specific mobile application generated screen to a management server and receive coupon from the management server, the specific mobile application screen corresponding to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and coupons and selects the coupon based on correlating targeting parameters; and a mobile application configured to display the coupon within the specific mobile application generated screen. 12. The mobile device of claim 11, wherein the coupon includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 13. The mobile device of claim 12, wherein the secondary call-to-action comprises entering an email address, accepting the coupon, accepting a reward, opt-in for alerts, and opt-in for notifications. 14. The mobile device of claim 11, wherein a data exchange between the mobile application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the mobile application running on the mobile device to access coupon t as a result of the data exchange. 15. The mobile device of claim 14, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 16. The mobile device of claim 15, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 17. The mobile device of claim 11, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 18. The mobile device of claim 17, wherein personal information comprises location, gender, age, interest, affiliation ,userid, pageid, zip code, area code, and occupation. 19. The mobile device of claim 17, wherein transaction history comprises contactless transactions made using a secure element coupled to the mobile communication device, internet commerce, bill pay, top spend categories, merchants, storage of banking information, accessing banking services, tickets, transactions made by the user but not through the mobile communication device, and raw data downloaded from banks. 20. A non-transitory computer readable medium, comprising:
computer code for maintaining a mobile application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, wherein the mobile application is non browser based and is preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, and a mobile device radio interface; computer code for sending a request to a management server for a coupon for display within a specific mobile application generated screen, the specific mobile application screen corresponding to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and coupons and selects the coupon based on correlating targeting parameters; computer code for receiving the coupon from the management server; and computer code for displaying the coupon within the specific mobile application generated screen. | 3,600 |
13,352 | 13,352 | 14,181,403 | 3,687 | A method and system for conducting an online payment transaction through a point of sale device. The method includes receiving input from a user selecting an item for purchase through the point of sale device; calculating a total purchase amount for the item in response to a request from the user to purchase the item; and sending payment authorization for the total purchase amount from the point of sale device to a payment entity, in which the payment authorization is sent to the payment entity via a mobile communication device of the user. The method further includes receiving a result of the payment authorization from the payment entity through the mobile communication device; and completing the payment transaction based on the result of the payment authorization. | 1. A method, comprising:
receiving at a management server a transaction confirmation from a payment application, wherein a management server maintains plurality of user profiles and digital artifacts; processing a transaction using a default payment method including redeeming a coupon during the transaction based on receiving input at the payment application running on the a mobile device from a user to purchase an item selected at the mobile device, wherein the payment application is not browser based and is a mobile operating system platform based mobile application preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the payment application maintaining payment account information by using the payment application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, a mobile device radio interface, and a mobile device wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) interface; receiving a request for a digital artifact from the payment application in response to a request from the payment application for the digital artifact for display within a specific payment application generated screen, wherein the specific payment application generated screen corresponds to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property; selecting the digital artifact based on correlating targeting parameters; and sending the digital artifact to the payment application for display within the specific payment application generated screen. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the digital artifact includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a data exchange between the payment application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the payment application running on the mobile device to conduct a purchase as a result of the data exchange. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 6. The method of claim 1, wherein coupons are redeemed during the transaction. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the digital artifact is an advertisement, receipt, ticket, coupon, media, or content received at the payment application. 9. The method of claim 7, wherein personal information comprises location, gender, age, interest, affiliation, userid, pageid, zip code, area code, and occupation. 10. The method of claim 7, wherein transaction history comprises contactless transactions made using a secure element coupled to the mobile device, internet commerce, bill pay, top spend categories, merchants, storage of banking information, accessing banking services, tickets, transactions made by the user but not through the mobile device, and raw data downloaded from banks. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the mobile device has a secure element including a secure element processor configured for near field communication transaction processing, a secure element memory configured to maintain a secure element application, and a secure element near field communication transceiver. 12. A management server, comprising:
a management server interface configured to receive a transaction confirmation from a payment application, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and digital artifacts; a management server processor configured to process a transaction for the selected item using a default payment method and the coupon based on receiving input at the payment application running on a mobile device from a user to purchase an item selected at the mobile device, wherein the payment application is not browser based-and is a mobile operating system platform based mobile application preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, the mobile application maintaining payment account information and payment account identifier using the payment application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, a mobile device processor, a mobile device radio interface, and a mobile device wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) interface; a management server receiver configured to receive a request for a digital artifact from the payment application in response to a request from the payment application for the digital artifact for display within a specific payment application generated screen, wherein the specific payment application generated screen corresponds to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property; a management server processor configured to select the digital artifact based on correlating targeting parameters; and a management server transceiver configured to send the digital artifact for display within the specific payment application generated screen. 13. The management server of claim 12, wherein the digital artifact includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 14. The management server of claim 12, wherein a data exchange between the payment application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the payment application running on the mobile device to conduct a purchase as a result of the data exchange. 15. The management server of claim 14, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 16. The management server of claim 15, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 17. The management server of claim 12, wherein coupons are redeemed during the transaction. 18. The management server of claim 12, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 19. The management server of claim 12, wherein the digital artifact is an advertisement, receipt, ticket, coupon, media, or content received at the payment application. 20. A non-transitory computer readable medium, comprising:
computer code to receive a transaction confirmation from a payment application, the management server configured to process a transaction, including redeeming a coupon during the transaction; computer code for processing a transaction using the default payment method and coupon corresponding to the user based on receiving input at the payment application running on the mobile device from a user to purchase an item selected at the mobile device; wherein the payment application is non browser based and is a mobile operating system platform based mobile application preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the payment application maintaining payment account information and payment account identifier by using a payment application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, a mobile device radio interface, and a mobile device wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) interface and computer code for receiving a request for a digital artifact from the payment application in response to a request from the payment application for the digital artifact for display within a specific payment application generated screen, wherein the specific payment application generated screen corresponds to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property; computer code for selecting a the digital artifact based on correlating targeting parameters; computer code for sending the digital artifact for display within the specific payment application generated screen. | A method and system for conducting an online payment transaction through a point of sale device. The method includes receiving input from a user selecting an item for purchase through the point of sale device; calculating a total purchase amount for the item in response to a request from the user to purchase the item; and sending payment authorization for the total purchase amount from the point of sale device to a payment entity, in which the payment authorization is sent to the payment entity via a mobile communication device of the user. The method further includes receiving a result of the payment authorization from the payment entity through the mobile communication device; and completing the payment transaction based on the result of the payment authorization.1. A method, comprising:
receiving at a management server a transaction confirmation from a payment application, wherein a management server maintains plurality of user profiles and digital artifacts; processing a transaction using a default payment method including redeeming a coupon during the transaction based on receiving input at the payment application running on the a mobile device from a user to purchase an item selected at the mobile device, wherein the payment application is not browser based and is a mobile operating system platform based mobile application preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the payment application maintaining payment account information by using the payment application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, a mobile device radio interface, and a mobile device wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) interface; receiving a request for a digital artifact from the payment application in response to a request from the payment application for the digital artifact for display within a specific payment application generated screen, wherein the specific payment application generated screen corresponds to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property; selecting the digital artifact based on correlating targeting parameters; and sending the digital artifact to the payment application for display within the specific payment application generated screen. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the digital artifact includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a data exchange between the payment application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the payment application running on the mobile device to conduct a purchase as a result of the data exchange. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 6. The method of claim 1, wherein coupons are redeemed during the transaction. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the digital artifact is an advertisement, receipt, ticket, coupon, media, or content received at the payment application. 9. The method of claim 7, wherein personal information comprises location, gender, age, interest, affiliation, userid, pageid, zip code, area code, and occupation. 10. The method of claim 7, wherein transaction history comprises contactless transactions made using a secure element coupled to the mobile device, internet commerce, bill pay, top spend categories, merchants, storage of banking information, accessing banking services, tickets, transactions made by the user but not through the mobile device, and raw data downloaded from banks. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the mobile device has a secure element including a secure element processor configured for near field communication transaction processing, a secure element memory configured to maintain a secure element application, and a secure element near field communication transceiver. 12. A management server, comprising:
a management server interface configured to receive a transaction confirmation from a payment application, wherein the management server maintains plurality of user profiles and digital artifacts; a management server processor configured to process a transaction for the selected item using a default payment method and the coupon based on receiving input at the payment application running on a mobile device from a user to purchase an item selected at the mobile device, wherein the payment application is not browser based-and is a mobile operating system platform based mobile application preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, the mobile application maintaining payment account information and payment account identifier using the payment application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, a mobile device processor, a mobile device radio interface, and a mobile device wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) interface; a management server receiver configured to receive a request for a digital artifact from the payment application in response to a request from the payment application for the digital artifact for display within a specific payment application generated screen, wherein the specific payment application generated screen corresponds to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property; a management server processor configured to select the digital artifact based on correlating targeting parameters; and a management server transceiver configured to send the digital artifact for display within the specific payment application generated screen. 13. The management server of claim 12, wherein the digital artifact includes metadata operable to trigger a call to action. 14. The management server of claim 12, wherein a data exchange between the payment application and the management server has already occurred, wherein the management server permits a user associated with the payment application running on the mobile device to conduct a purchase as a result of the data exchange. 15. The management server of claim 14, wherein the data exchange includes exchanging an identification code. 16. The management server of claim 15, wherein the identification code is a personal identification number (PIN). 17. The management server of claim 12, wherein coupons are redeemed during the transaction. 18. The management server of claim 12, wherein targeting parameters comprises personal information and/or transaction history. 19. The management server of claim 12, wherein the digital artifact is an advertisement, receipt, ticket, coupon, media, or content received at the payment application. 20. A non-transitory computer readable medium, comprising:
computer code to receive a transaction confirmation from a payment application, the management server configured to process a transaction, including redeeming a coupon during the transaction; computer code for processing a transaction using the default payment method and coupon corresponding to the user based on receiving input at the payment application running on the mobile device from a user to purchase an item selected at the mobile device; wherein the payment application is non browser based and is a mobile operating system platform based mobile application preinstalled or downloaded and installed on the mobile device, the payment application maintaining payment account information and payment account identifier by using a payment application in a mobile device memory included in a mobile device, the mobile device comprising a mobile device display, a mobile device processor, a mobile device radio interface, and a mobile device wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) interface and computer code for receiving a request for a digital artifact from the payment application in response to a request from the payment application for the digital artifact for display within a specific payment application generated screen, wherein the specific payment application generated screen corresponds to a specific screen, scene, or real estate property; computer code for selecting a the digital artifact based on correlating targeting parameters; computer code for sending the digital artifact for display within the specific payment application generated screen. | 3,600 |
13,353 | 13,353 | 13,584,084 | 3,624 | A method and apparatus for developing a product. A product development environment comprises a system. The system further comprises a virtual product online world manager and a transformer. The virtual product online world manager is configured to manage elements for a product under development in a virtual product online world. The transformer is configured to exchange the elements with a number of product development systems developing the elements over a network. | 1. A product development environment, the product development environment comprising a system, further comprising:
a virtual product online world manager configured to manage elements for a product under development in a virtual product online world; and a transformer configured to exchange the elements with a number of product development systems developing the elements over a network. 2. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the transformer is configured to transform an element in the elements received in a foreign format from a product development system in the number of product development systems into a master format used in the virtual product online world, and transform the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the product development system. 3. The product development environment of claim 1 further comprising:
a security manager configured to manage information in the elements exchanged with the number of product development systems based on a security policy. 4. The product development environment of claim 1 further comprising:
a work structure manager configured to manage assignment of work for developing the product. 5. The product development environment of claim 1 further comprising:
a product structure manager configured to manage a hierarchy of the elements for the product. 6. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the element is a virtual representation of a component for the product. 7. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the element includes at least one of a work structure component, a requirements structure component, a product structure component, a visualization component, and a security component. 8. The product development environment of claim 7, wherein the work structure component identifies a location of the element in a program for developing the product. 9. The product development environment of claim 7, wherein the product structure component identifies a location of the element within the product. 10. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the product development system in the number of product development systems is configured to perform at least one of designing the element in the elements, manufacturing the element, testing the element, performing simulations with the element, modifying the element, and evaluating the element. 11. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the product development system in the number of product development systems is selected from one of a computer aided design system, a technology computer aided design system, a manufacturing system, and another virtual product online world. 12. A product development environment comprising:
a virtual product online world manager configured to manage elements for a vehicle under development in a virtual product online world; a transformer configured to exchange the elements with product development systems developing the elements over a network, transform an element in the elements received in a foreign format from a product development system in the product development systems into a master format used in the virtual product online world, and transform the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the product development system; a security manager configured to manage information in the elements exchanged with the product development systems based on a security policy; a work structure manager configured to manage assignment of work for developing the vehicle; and a product structure manager configured to manage a hierarchy of the elements for the vehicle. 13. The product development environment of claim 12, wherein the element includes at least one of a work structure component, a requirements structure component, a product structure component, a visualization component, and a security component. 14. The product development environment of claim 13, wherein the work structure component identifies a location of the element in a program for developing the vehicle and wherein the product structure component identifies a location of the element within the vehicle. 15. The product development environment of claim 12, wherein the product development system in the product development systems is selected from one of a computer aided design system, a technology computer aided design system, a manufacturing system, and another virtual product online world. 16. A product development environment comprising:
virtual product online worlds, wherein each virtual product online world in the virtual product online worlds comprises a virtual product online world manager configured to manage elements for a product under development in the product development environment and a transformer configured to exchange the elements with a selected virtual product online world in the virtual product online worlds developing the elements over a network, transform an element in the elements received in a foreign format from the selected virtual product online world into a master format used in the each virtual product online world, and transform the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the selected virtual product online world. 17. The product development environment of claim 16, wherein the element includes at least one of a work structure component, a requirements structure component, a product structure component, a visualization component, and a security component. 18. The product development environment of claim 16, wherein a product development system in the selected virtual product online world is selected from one of a computer aided design system, a technology computer aided design system, a manufacturing system, and another virtual product online world. 19. A method for developing a product, the method comprising:
storing elements in a virtual product online world; and exchanging the elements with a number of product development systems through an integration hub connected to a network, wherein the number of product development systems is configured to develop the elements for the product. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the elements are stored in the virtual product online world in a master format and further comprising:
transforming, by the integration hub, an element in the elements received in a foreign format from a product development system in the number of product development systems into the master format used in the virtual product online world; and transforming, by the integration hub, the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the product development system. 21. The method of claim 19, wherein the integration hub provides access to the virtual product online world to perform at least one of a design, test, evaluation, visualization, navigation, access, verification, conversion, validation, manipulation, management, control, integration, and analyzing function. | A method and apparatus for developing a product. A product development environment comprises a system. The system further comprises a virtual product online world manager and a transformer. The virtual product online world manager is configured to manage elements for a product under development in a virtual product online world. The transformer is configured to exchange the elements with a number of product development systems developing the elements over a network.1. A product development environment, the product development environment comprising a system, further comprising:
a virtual product online world manager configured to manage elements for a product under development in a virtual product online world; and a transformer configured to exchange the elements with a number of product development systems developing the elements over a network. 2. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the transformer is configured to transform an element in the elements received in a foreign format from a product development system in the number of product development systems into a master format used in the virtual product online world, and transform the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the product development system. 3. The product development environment of claim 1 further comprising:
a security manager configured to manage information in the elements exchanged with the number of product development systems based on a security policy. 4. The product development environment of claim 1 further comprising:
a work structure manager configured to manage assignment of work for developing the product. 5. The product development environment of claim 1 further comprising:
a product structure manager configured to manage a hierarchy of the elements for the product. 6. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the element is a virtual representation of a component for the product. 7. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the element includes at least one of a work structure component, a requirements structure component, a product structure component, a visualization component, and a security component. 8. The product development environment of claim 7, wherein the work structure component identifies a location of the element in a program for developing the product. 9. The product development environment of claim 7, wherein the product structure component identifies a location of the element within the product. 10. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the product development system in the number of product development systems is configured to perform at least one of designing the element in the elements, manufacturing the element, testing the element, performing simulations with the element, modifying the element, and evaluating the element. 11. The product development environment of claim 1, wherein the product development system in the number of product development systems is selected from one of a computer aided design system, a technology computer aided design system, a manufacturing system, and another virtual product online world. 12. A product development environment comprising:
a virtual product online world manager configured to manage elements for a vehicle under development in a virtual product online world; a transformer configured to exchange the elements with product development systems developing the elements over a network, transform an element in the elements received in a foreign format from a product development system in the product development systems into a master format used in the virtual product online world, and transform the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the product development system; a security manager configured to manage information in the elements exchanged with the product development systems based on a security policy; a work structure manager configured to manage assignment of work for developing the vehicle; and a product structure manager configured to manage a hierarchy of the elements for the vehicle. 13. The product development environment of claim 12, wherein the element includes at least one of a work structure component, a requirements structure component, a product structure component, a visualization component, and a security component. 14. The product development environment of claim 13, wherein the work structure component identifies a location of the element in a program for developing the vehicle and wherein the product structure component identifies a location of the element within the vehicle. 15. The product development environment of claim 12, wherein the product development system in the product development systems is selected from one of a computer aided design system, a technology computer aided design system, a manufacturing system, and another virtual product online world. 16. A product development environment comprising:
virtual product online worlds, wherein each virtual product online world in the virtual product online worlds comprises a virtual product online world manager configured to manage elements for a product under development in the product development environment and a transformer configured to exchange the elements with a selected virtual product online world in the virtual product online worlds developing the elements over a network, transform an element in the elements received in a foreign format from the selected virtual product online world into a master format used in the each virtual product online world, and transform the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the selected virtual product online world. 17. The product development environment of claim 16, wherein the element includes at least one of a work structure component, a requirements structure component, a product structure component, a visualization component, and a security component. 18. The product development environment of claim 16, wherein a product development system in the selected virtual product online world is selected from one of a computer aided design system, a technology computer aided design system, a manufacturing system, and another virtual product online world. 19. A method for developing a product, the method comprising:
storing elements in a virtual product online world; and exchanging the elements with a number of product development systems through an integration hub connected to a network, wherein the number of product development systems is configured to develop the elements for the product. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the elements are stored in the virtual product online world in a master format and further comprising:
transforming, by the integration hub, an element in the elements received in a foreign format from a product development system in the number of product development systems into the master format used in the virtual product online world; and transforming, by the integration hub, the element in the master format into the foreign format for transmission to the product development system. 21. The method of claim 19, wherein the integration hub provides access to the virtual product online world to perform at least one of a design, test, evaluation, visualization, navigation, access, verification, conversion, validation, manipulation, management, control, integration, and analyzing function. | 3,600 |
13,354 | 13,354 | 13,485,228 | 3,626 | Various embodiments provide systems for monitoring a plurality of users over one or more websites. Such systems comprise a memory and at least one processor configured to: (a) receive transaction information from the one or more websites for the plurality of users; (b) after receiving the transaction information: (1) determine norms of behavior based on the transaction information; (2) compare the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the norms of behavior; (3) identify individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the norms of behavior; and (4) save information on the potentially problem users in the memory. Associated methods are likewise provided. | 1. A system for monitoring a plurality of users over one or more websites, the one or more websites being independent of each other, the system comprising:
a memory; and at least one processor configured to:
(a) receive transaction information from the one or more websites for the plurality of users, the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the one or more websites;
(b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determine norms of behavior based on the transaction information;
(2) compare the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the norms of behavior;
(3) identify individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the norms of behavior;
(4) save information on the potentially problem users in the memory, the information comprising information on the at least one diverging attribute for each individual user; and
(5) compare the attributes of the transaction information with the attributes of the transaction information of confirmed problem users and identify similarities which could indicate potentially problem users and save such information in the memory. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor, after receiving a request from a website to identify whether a particular user is a potentially problem user, is configured to:
query the memory based on an identifier for the particular user; determine whether information on the particular user has been saved in the memory; and after determining information has been saved for the particular user, send a response to the website indicating the particular user has been identified as a potentially problem user. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more attributes comprise one or more of: (1) purchase amounts and frequency; (2) deposit amounts and frequency; (3) wager amounts and frequency; (4) limits set by the at least two websites on purchase amounts; (5) limits set by the at least two websites on deposit amounts; (6) limits set by the at least two websites on wager amounts; (7) limits set by the at least two websites on purchase frequency; (8) limits set by the at least two websites on deposit frequency; (9) limits set by the at least two websites on wager frequency; (10) limits set by the plurality of users on purchase amounts; (11) limits set by the plurality of users on deposit amounts; (12) limits set by the plurality of users on wager amounts; (13) limits set by the plurality of users on purchase frequency; (14) limits set by the plurality of users on deposit frequency; (15) limits set by the plurality of users on wager frequency; (16) history of self-exclusion for the plurality of users; (17) history of exclusion imposed by the at least two websites; (18) history of reactivation after exclusion for the plurality of users; (19) history of permanent exclusions for the plurality of user; (20) locations associated with the plurality of users; (21) number of devices used by the plurality of users and repeat usage of the devices; (22) dispute history for the plurality of users that comprise chargebacks, refunds, and declines; (23) ages of the plurality of users; (24) credit scores of the plurality of users; (25) time periods the plurality of users have been registered with the at least two websites; (26) history of plurality of users on amounts of winnings and losses; or (27) types of activities engaged in by the plurality of users on the at least two websites. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are determined for one or more of the following behaviors: (1) amounts of purchases; (2) amounts of deposits; (3) frequency of deposits; (4) purchases by product type; (5) wagers by activity type; (6) amounts of purchases; (7) amounts of wagers; (8) frequency of wagers; (9) amounts of purchases by age ranges; (10) amounts of deposits by age ranges; (11) frequency of purchases by age ranges; (12) frequency of deposits by age ranges; (13) amounts of wagers by age ranges; (14) frequency of wagers by age ranges; (15) patterns of purchases; (16) patterns of deposits; (17) patterns of wagers; (18) proximity of a user's performance to a website's set limits; (19) proximity of a user's performance to the user's set limits; (20) profiles of net winnings to deposits; (21) profiles of net winnings to wagers; (22) profiles of net losses to deposits; or (23) profiles of net losses to wagers. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the one or more websites comprise at least two websites. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are specific to each of the at least two websites. 7. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are specific to one or more predefined groups of users. 8. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are determined based at least in part upon behavior of two or more users across a single one of the at least two websites. 9. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behaviors are based at least in part upon behavior of at least one user or group of users across each of the at least two websites. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one attribute diverging from the norms of behavior comprises one or more of: (1) escalation of frequency of purchases; (2) escalation of frequency of deposits; (3) escalation of amount of purchases; (4) escalation of amount of deposits; (5) escalation of frequency of wagers; (6) escalation of amount of wagers; (7) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of purchases; (8) erratic behavior with respect to amount of purchases; (9) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of deposits; (10) erratic behavior with respect to amount of deposits; (11) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of wagers; (12) erratic behavior with respect to amount of wagers; (13) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of chargeback requests; (14) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of disputes; (15) indication of exclusion from engaging in activities by one-self, by a website, or state; (16) indication of requesting help; (17) indication of defaults in use of credit cards; (18) indication of insolvency; (19) escalation of length of session time; and (20) escalation of cumulative length of session time over a predefined period. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the at least one attribute diverging from the norms of behavior comprises an indication of requesting help, wherein the request for help is received after the system presents the user with an option to submit the request for help, the option being generated in response to at least one additional attribute diverging from the norms of behavior. 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the divergences from the norms of behavior are specific to individual websites. 13. A method for monitoring a plurality of users over one or more websites, the one or more websites being independent of each other, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) receiving transaction information from the one or more websites over a network for the plurality of users, the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the one or more websites; (b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determining norms of behavior based on the transaction information by at least one computing device comprising at least one processor;
(2) comparing the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the norms of behavior by the at least one processor;
(3) identifying individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the norms of behavior;
(4) saving information on the potentially problem users in a memory, the information comprising information on the at least one diverging attribute for each individual user; and
(5) comparing the attributes of the transaction information with the attributes of the transaction information of confirmed problem users and identify similarities which could indicate potentially problem users and save such information in the memory. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of, after receiving a request from a website to identify whether a particular user is a potentially problem user:
querying the memory based on an identifier for the particular user by the at least one processor; determining whether information on the particular user has been saved in the memory; and after determining information has been saved for the particular user, send a response to the website over the network indicating the particular user has been identified as a potentially problem user. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the website prohibits the particular user from engaging in transaction activities on the website as a result of receiving the response indicating the particular user has been identified as a potentially problem user. 16. A system for identifying at least one early warning indicator for potentially problem users, the at least one early warning indicator comprising a factor that predicts higher incidence of problem behavior, the system comprising:
at least one processor configured to:
(a) receive transaction information from at least two websites for a plurality of users, the at least two websites being independent of each other and the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the at least two websites; and
(b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determine at least one norm of behavior based on the transaction information;
(2) compare the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the at least one norm of behavior;
(3) identify individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the at least one norm of behavior; and
(4) develop the at least one early warning indicator, the early warning indicator being based on the at least one diverging attribute identified for the potentially problem users. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises one or more of: (1) escalation of frequency of purchases; (2) escalation of frequency of deposits; (3) escalation of amount of purchases; (4) escalation of amount of deposits; (5) escalation of frequency of wagers; (6) escalation of amount of wagers; (7) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of purchases; (8) erratic behavior with respect to amount of purchases; (9) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of deposits; (10) erratic behavior with respect to amount of deposits; (11) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of wagers; (12) erratic behavior with respect to amount of wagers; (13) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of chargeback requests; (14) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of disputes; (15) indication of exclusion from engaging in activities by one-self, by a website, or state; (16) indication of requesting help; (17) indication of defaults in use of credit cards; (18) indication of insolvency; (19) escalation of length of session time; and (20) escalation of cumulative length of session time over a predefined period. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises an indication of requesting help, wherein the request for help is received after the system presents the user with an option to submit the request for help, the option being generated in response to at least one additional early warning indicator being identified for the user. 19. The system of claim 16, wherein the at least one processor is configured to send the at least one early warning indicator to at least one of the at least two websites so that the at least one website can use the early warning indicator to identify potentially problem users from users visiting the website. 20. A method for identifying at least one early warning indicator for potentially problem users, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) receiving transaction information from at least two websites for a plurality of users over a network, the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the at least two websites; and (b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determining at least one norm of behavior based on the transaction information by at least one computing device comprising at least one processor;
(2) comparing the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the at least one norm of behavior by the at least one processor;
(3) identifying individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the at least norm of behavior; and
(4) developing the at least one early warning indicator, the early warning indicator being based on the at least one diverging attribute identified for the potentially problem users. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises one or more of: (1) escalation of frequency of purchases; (2) escalation of frequency of deposits; (3) escalation of amount of purchases; (4) escalation of amount of deposits; (5) escalation of frequency of wagers; (6) escalation of amount of wagers; (7) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of purchases; (8) erratic behavior with respect to amount of purchases; (9) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of deposits; (10) erratic behavior with respect to amount of deposits; (11) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of wagers; (12) erratic behavior with respect to amount of wagers; (13) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of chargeback requests; (14) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of disputes; (15) indication of exclusion from engaging in activities by one-self, by a website, or state; (16) indication of requesting help; (17) indication of defaults in use of credit cards; (18) indication of insolvency; (19) escalation of length of session time; and (20) escalation of cumulative length of session time over a predefined period. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises an indication of requesting help, wherein the request for help is received after the system presents the user with an option to submit the request for help, the option being generated in response to at least one additional early warning indicator being identified for the user. 23. The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of sending the at least one early warning indicator over the network to at least one of the at least two websites so that the website can use the early warning indicator to identify potentially problem users from users visiting the website. | Various embodiments provide systems for monitoring a plurality of users over one or more websites. Such systems comprise a memory and at least one processor configured to: (a) receive transaction information from the one or more websites for the plurality of users; (b) after receiving the transaction information: (1) determine norms of behavior based on the transaction information; (2) compare the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the norms of behavior; (3) identify individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the norms of behavior; and (4) save information on the potentially problem users in the memory. Associated methods are likewise provided.1. A system for monitoring a plurality of users over one or more websites, the one or more websites being independent of each other, the system comprising:
a memory; and at least one processor configured to:
(a) receive transaction information from the one or more websites for the plurality of users, the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the one or more websites;
(b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determine norms of behavior based on the transaction information;
(2) compare the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the norms of behavior;
(3) identify individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the norms of behavior;
(4) save information on the potentially problem users in the memory, the information comprising information on the at least one diverging attribute for each individual user; and
(5) compare the attributes of the transaction information with the attributes of the transaction information of confirmed problem users and identify similarities which could indicate potentially problem users and save such information in the memory. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor, after receiving a request from a website to identify whether a particular user is a potentially problem user, is configured to:
query the memory based on an identifier for the particular user; determine whether information on the particular user has been saved in the memory; and after determining information has been saved for the particular user, send a response to the website indicating the particular user has been identified as a potentially problem user. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more attributes comprise one or more of: (1) purchase amounts and frequency; (2) deposit amounts and frequency; (3) wager amounts and frequency; (4) limits set by the at least two websites on purchase amounts; (5) limits set by the at least two websites on deposit amounts; (6) limits set by the at least two websites on wager amounts; (7) limits set by the at least two websites on purchase frequency; (8) limits set by the at least two websites on deposit frequency; (9) limits set by the at least two websites on wager frequency; (10) limits set by the plurality of users on purchase amounts; (11) limits set by the plurality of users on deposit amounts; (12) limits set by the plurality of users on wager amounts; (13) limits set by the plurality of users on purchase frequency; (14) limits set by the plurality of users on deposit frequency; (15) limits set by the plurality of users on wager frequency; (16) history of self-exclusion for the plurality of users; (17) history of exclusion imposed by the at least two websites; (18) history of reactivation after exclusion for the plurality of users; (19) history of permanent exclusions for the plurality of user; (20) locations associated with the plurality of users; (21) number of devices used by the plurality of users and repeat usage of the devices; (22) dispute history for the plurality of users that comprise chargebacks, refunds, and declines; (23) ages of the plurality of users; (24) credit scores of the plurality of users; (25) time periods the plurality of users have been registered with the at least two websites; (26) history of plurality of users on amounts of winnings and losses; or (27) types of activities engaged in by the plurality of users on the at least two websites. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are determined for one or more of the following behaviors: (1) amounts of purchases; (2) amounts of deposits; (3) frequency of deposits; (4) purchases by product type; (5) wagers by activity type; (6) amounts of purchases; (7) amounts of wagers; (8) frequency of wagers; (9) amounts of purchases by age ranges; (10) amounts of deposits by age ranges; (11) frequency of purchases by age ranges; (12) frequency of deposits by age ranges; (13) amounts of wagers by age ranges; (14) frequency of wagers by age ranges; (15) patterns of purchases; (16) patterns of deposits; (17) patterns of wagers; (18) proximity of a user's performance to a website's set limits; (19) proximity of a user's performance to the user's set limits; (20) profiles of net winnings to deposits; (21) profiles of net winnings to wagers; (22) profiles of net losses to deposits; or (23) profiles of net losses to wagers. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the one or more websites comprise at least two websites. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are specific to each of the at least two websites. 7. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are specific to one or more predefined groups of users. 8. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behavior are determined based at least in part upon behavior of two or more users across a single one of the at least two websites. 9. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more norms of behaviors are based at least in part upon behavior of at least one user or group of users across each of the at least two websites. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one attribute diverging from the norms of behavior comprises one or more of: (1) escalation of frequency of purchases; (2) escalation of frequency of deposits; (3) escalation of amount of purchases; (4) escalation of amount of deposits; (5) escalation of frequency of wagers; (6) escalation of amount of wagers; (7) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of purchases; (8) erratic behavior with respect to amount of purchases; (9) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of deposits; (10) erratic behavior with respect to amount of deposits; (11) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of wagers; (12) erratic behavior with respect to amount of wagers; (13) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of chargeback requests; (14) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of disputes; (15) indication of exclusion from engaging in activities by one-self, by a website, or state; (16) indication of requesting help; (17) indication of defaults in use of credit cards; (18) indication of insolvency; (19) escalation of length of session time; and (20) escalation of cumulative length of session time over a predefined period. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the at least one attribute diverging from the norms of behavior comprises an indication of requesting help, wherein the request for help is received after the system presents the user with an option to submit the request for help, the option being generated in response to at least one additional attribute diverging from the norms of behavior. 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the divergences from the norms of behavior are specific to individual websites. 13. A method for monitoring a plurality of users over one or more websites, the one or more websites being independent of each other, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) receiving transaction information from the one or more websites over a network for the plurality of users, the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the one or more websites; (b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determining norms of behavior based on the transaction information by at least one computing device comprising at least one processor;
(2) comparing the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the norms of behavior by the at least one processor;
(3) identifying individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the norms of behavior;
(4) saving information on the potentially problem users in a memory, the information comprising information on the at least one diverging attribute for each individual user; and
(5) comparing the attributes of the transaction information with the attributes of the transaction information of confirmed problem users and identify similarities which could indicate potentially problem users and save such information in the memory. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of, after receiving a request from a website to identify whether a particular user is a potentially problem user:
querying the memory based on an identifier for the particular user by the at least one processor; determining whether information on the particular user has been saved in the memory; and after determining information has been saved for the particular user, send a response to the website over the network indicating the particular user has been identified as a potentially problem user. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the website prohibits the particular user from engaging in transaction activities on the website as a result of receiving the response indicating the particular user has been identified as a potentially problem user. 16. A system for identifying at least one early warning indicator for potentially problem users, the at least one early warning indicator comprising a factor that predicts higher incidence of problem behavior, the system comprising:
at least one processor configured to:
(a) receive transaction information from at least two websites for a plurality of users, the at least two websites being independent of each other and the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the at least two websites; and
(b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determine at least one norm of behavior based on the transaction information;
(2) compare the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the at least one norm of behavior;
(3) identify individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the at least one norm of behavior; and
(4) develop the at least one early warning indicator, the early warning indicator being based on the at least one diverging attribute identified for the potentially problem users. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises one or more of: (1) escalation of frequency of purchases; (2) escalation of frequency of deposits; (3) escalation of amount of purchases; (4) escalation of amount of deposits; (5) escalation of frequency of wagers; (6) escalation of amount of wagers; (7) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of purchases; (8) erratic behavior with respect to amount of purchases; (9) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of deposits; (10) erratic behavior with respect to amount of deposits; (11) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of wagers; (12) erratic behavior with respect to amount of wagers; (13) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of chargeback requests; (14) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of disputes; (15) indication of exclusion from engaging in activities by one-self, by a website, or state; (16) indication of requesting help; (17) indication of defaults in use of credit cards; (18) indication of insolvency; (19) escalation of length of session time; and (20) escalation of cumulative length of session time over a predefined period. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises an indication of requesting help, wherein the request for help is received after the system presents the user with an option to submit the request for help, the option being generated in response to at least one additional early warning indicator being identified for the user. 19. The system of claim 16, wherein the at least one processor is configured to send the at least one early warning indicator to at least one of the at least two websites so that the at least one website can use the early warning indicator to identify potentially problem users from users visiting the website. 20. A method for identifying at least one early warning indicator for potentially problem users, the method comprising the steps of:
(a) receiving transaction information from at least two websites for a plurality of users over a network, the transaction information comprising one or more attributes identifying behaviors related to the plurality of users engaging in transaction activities on the at least two websites; and (b) after receiving the transaction information:
(1) determining at least one norm of behavior based on the transaction information by at least one computing device comprising at least one processor;
(2) comparing the one or more attributes from the transaction information for each individual user of the plurality of users against the at least one norm of behavior by the at least one processor;
(3) identifying individual users of the plurality of users as potentially problem users, the potentially problem users comprising each individual user of the plurality of users who has at least one attribute diverge from the at least norm of behavior; and
(4) developing the at least one early warning indicator, the early warning indicator being based on the at least one diverging attribute identified for the potentially problem users. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises one or more of: (1) escalation of frequency of purchases; (2) escalation of frequency of deposits; (3) escalation of amount of purchases; (4) escalation of amount of deposits; (5) escalation of frequency of wagers; (6) escalation of amount of wagers; (7) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of purchases; (8) erratic behavior with respect to amount of purchases; (9) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of deposits; (10) erratic behavior with respect to amount of deposits; (11) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of wagers; (12) erratic behavior with respect to amount of wagers; (13) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of chargeback requests; (14) erratic behavior with respect to frequency of disputes; (15) indication of exclusion from engaging in activities by one-self, by a website, or state; (16) indication of requesting help; (17) indication of defaults in use of credit cards; (18) indication of insolvency; (19) escalation of length of session time; and (20) escalation of cumulative length of session time over a predefined period. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the at least one early warning indicator comprises an indication of requesting help, wherein the request for help is received after the system presents the user with an option to submit the request for help, the option being generated in response to at least one additional early warning indicator being identified for the user. 23. The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of sending the at least one early warning indicator over the network to at least one of the at least two websites so that the website can use the early warning indicator to identify potentially problem users from users visiting the website. | 3,600 |
13,355 | 13,355 | 13,565,467 | 3,629 | Within a business process, a decision reference can be defined at an insertion point. The decision reference can be associated with one of a plurality of different decision modes. Each decision mode can indicate a different process for selecting one or more activities of the business process to be performed according to a result of a decision service to be implemented for the decision reference. A description file can be generated for the decision reference specifying, at least in part, the associated decision mode. | 1. A method, comprising:
generating a decision reference at an insertion point within a business process; associating, using a processor, the decision reference with one of a plurality of different decision modes; wherein each decision mode indicates a different process for selecting one or more activities of the business process to be performed according to a result of a decision service to be implemented for the decision reference; and generating a decision description file for the decision reference specifying, at least in part, the associated decision mode. 2-24. (canceled) 25. A computer-implemented method of generating a decision description file, comprising:
identifying a decision reference at an insertion point within a business process; selecting, one of a plurality of different decisions modes, to associate with the decision reference; generating the decision description file using the decision reference, the insertion point, and the selected one of the plurality of difference decision modes, wherein each of the plurality of different decision modes indicates a different process for selecting one or more activities of the business process to be performed based upon a result of a decision service to be implemented for the decision reference. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein:
the selected one of the different decisions modes is a logical mode that returns the result in a binary format to the business process, and the business process is configured to select one of two alternative paths according to a value of the result. 27. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
the selected one of the different decision modes is a recommendation that returns the result as a value within a defined range to the business process, and the business process is configured to:
interpret the value by comparing the value to at least one segment of the defined range and
select at least one activity to be performed according to the comparing. 28. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
the selected one of the different decision modes is human centered, and the business process is configured to
present at least two options concurrently with the result and
receive a user selection of at least one of the options. 29. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
providing, responsive to a user initiated query, a list of decision references of the business process that conform with the query. 30. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
selecting a decision making technology based upon at least one attribute specified within the decision description file. 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising:
selecting a decision service tool based upon the selected decision making technology. 32. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
storing an audit trail of the business process including the result of the decision service at runtime. | Within a business process, a decision reference can be defined at an insertion point. The decision reference can be associated with one of a plurality of different decision modes. Each decision mode can indicate a different process for selecting one or more activities of the business process to be performed according to a result of a decision service to be implemented for the decision reference. A description file can be generated for the decision reference specifying, at least in part, the associated decision mode.1. A method, comprising:
generating a decision reference at an insertion point within a business process; associating, using a processor, the decision reference with one of a plurality of different decision modes; wherein each decision mode indicates a different process for selecting one or more activities of the business process to be performed according to a result of a decision service to be implemented for the decision reference; and generating a decision description file for the decision reference specifying, at least in part, the associated decision mode. 2-24. (canceled) 25. A computer-implemented method of generating a decision description file, comprising:
identifying a decision reference at an insertion point within a business process; selecting, one of a plurality of different decisions modes, to associate with the decision reference; generating the decision description file using the decision reference, the insertion point, and the selected one of the plurality of difference decision modes, wherein each of the plurality of different decision modes indicates a different process for selecting one or more activities of the business process to be performed based upon a result of a decision service to be implemented for the decision reference. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein:
the selected one of the different decisions modes is a logical mode that returns the result in a binary format to the business process, and the business process is configured to select one of two alternative paths according to a value of the result. 27. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
the selected one of the different decision modes is a recommendation that returns the result as a value within a defined range to the business process, and the business process is configured to:
interpret the value by comparing the value to at least one segment of the defined range and
select at least one activity to be performed according to the comparing. 28. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
the selected one of the different decision modes is human centered, and the business process is configured to
present at least two options concurrently with the result and
receive a user selection of at least one of the options. 29. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
providing, responsive to a user initiated query, a list of decision references of the business process that conform with the query. 30. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
selecting a decision making technology based upon at least one attribute specified within the decision description file. 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising:
selecting a decision service tool based upon the selected decision making technology. 32. The method of claim 25, further comprising:
storing an audit trail of the business process including the result of the decision service at runtime. | 3,600 |
13,356 | 13,356 | 15,008,025 | 3,694 | A system for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return includes a server computer having a predictive model, and a tax return preparation computer having an electronic tax return preparation program. The server computer is configured to obtain a first taxpayer datum and execute the predictive model, which analyzes the first taxpayer datum to identify a most relevant taxpayer data category. The server computer is configured to communicate the taxpayer data category to the tax return preparation computer. The tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain a second taxpayer datum corresponding to the taxpayer data category, calculate the estimated result for the taxpayer based on the second taxpayer datum, and display the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return. | 1. A system for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return, the system comprising:
a server computer having a predictive model running thereon; and a tax return preparation computer operatively coupled to the server computer by a network and having an electronic tax return preparation program running thereon, wherein the server computer is configured to obtain a first taxpayer datum associated with a taxpayer and execute the predictive model, wherein the predictive model, when executed, analyzes the first taxpayer datum to identify a taxpayer data category as most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer, wherein the server computer is configured to communicate the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant to the tax return preparation computer, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain a second taxpayer datum associated with the taxpayer and corresponding to the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to calculate the estimated result for the taxpayer based, at least in part, on the second taxpayer datum, and wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to display the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the predictive model is an algorithm that was created using a modeling technique selected from the group consisting of Pearson product-moment correction; sensitivity analysis; logistic regression; naive bayes; k-means classification; K-means clustering; other clustering techniques; k-nearest neighbor; neural networks; decision trees; random forests; boosted trees; k-nn classification; kd trees; generalized linear models; support vector machines; and substantial equivalents thereof. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the server computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from the tax return preparation computer. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from the user. 5. The system of claim 3, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from a taxpayer data computer. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the server computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from a taxpayer data computer. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein communicating the taxpayer data category identified as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer comprises communicating a sequence of taxpayer data categories with the taxpayer data category at a beginning of the sequence. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the second taxpayer datum from the user. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the second taxpayer datum from a taxpayer data computer. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the predictive model includes data analytics. 14. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. 15. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a change in the estimated result based on a change to the taxpayer data category. 16. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes determining a correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result in a plurality of tax returns. 17. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes analyzing a tax code. 18. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
determining a first correlation between the taxpayer data category and a second taxpayer data category; determining a second correlation between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and determining a third correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result based on the first and second correlations. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
calculating a first correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the second taxpayer data category; calculating a second correlation coefficient between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and calculating a third correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result based on the first and second correlation coefficients. 20. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
a. calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients for a respective first plurality of taxpayer data categories and the estimated result; b. eliminating one of the first plurality of taxpayer data categories having a lowest correlation coefficient of the plurality of correlation coefficients from the first plurality of taxpayer data categories to form a second plurality of taxpayer data categories; c. repeating steps a and b with respective pluralities of taxpayer data categories until a single last taxpayer data category remains; and d. identifying the single last taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 21. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes requesting the user to identify the taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 22. A computer-implemented method for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return, the method comprising:
obtaining a first taxpayer datum associated with a taxpayer; executing a predictive model; analyzing the first taxpayer datum to identify a taxpayer data category as most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer; obtaining a second taxpayer datum associated with the taxpayer and corresponding to the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant; calculating the estimated result for the taxpayer based, at least in part, on the second taxpayer datum; and displaying the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the predictive model is an algorithm that was created using a modeling technique selected from the group consisting of Pearson product-moment correction; sensitivity analysis; logistic regression; naive bayes; k-means classification; K-means clustering; other clustering techniques; k-nearest neighbor; neural networks; decision trees; random forests; boosted trees; k-nn classification; kd trees; generalized linear models; support vector machines; and substantial equivalents thereof. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the first taxpayer datum is obtained from the user. 25. The method of claim 22, wherein the first taxpayer datum is obtained from a taxpayer data computer. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 27. The method of claim 22, further comprising generating a sequence of taxpayer data categories with the taxpayer data category at a beginning of the sequence. 28. The method of claim 22, wherein the second taxpayer datum is obtained from the user. 29. The method of claim 22, wherein the second taxpayer datum is obtained from a taxpayer data computer. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 31. The method of claim 22, wherein the predictive model includes data analytics. 32. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. 33. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a change in the estimated result based on a change to the taxpayer data category. 34. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes determining a correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result in a plurality of tax returns. 35. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes analyzing a tax code. 36. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
determining a first correlation between the taxpayer data category and a second taxpayer data category; determining a second correlation between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and determining a third correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result from the first and second correlations. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
calculating a first correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the second taxpayer data category; calculating a second correlation coefficient between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and calculating a third correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result based on the first and second correlation coefficients. 38. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
a. calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients for a respective first plurality of taxpayer data categories and the estimated result; b. eliminating one of the first plurality of taxpayer data categories having a lowest correlation coefficient of the plurality of correlation coefficients from the first plurality of taxpayer data categories to form a second plurality of taxpayer data categories; c. repeating steps a and b with respective pluralities of taxpayer data categories until a single last taxpayer data category remains; and d. identifying the single last taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 39. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes requesting the user to identify the taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 40. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable storage medium embodying one or more instructions executable by a computer system having a server computer and a tax return preparation computer to perform a process for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return, the process comprising obtaining a first taxpayer datum associated with a taxpayer, executing a predictive model, analyzing the first taxpayer datum to identify a taxpayer data category as most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer, obtaining a second taxpayer datum associated with the taxpayer and corresponding to the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant, calculating the estimated result for the taxpayer based, at least in part, on the second taxpayer datum, and displaying the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return. | A system for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return includes a server computer having a predictive model, and a tax return preparation computer having an electronic tax return preparation program. The server computer is configured to obtain a first taxpayer datum and execute the predictive model, which analyzes the first taxpayer datum to identify a most relevant taxpayer data category. The server computer is configured to communicate the taxpayer data category to the tax return preparation computer. The tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain a second taxpayer datum corresponding to the taxpayer data category, calculate the estimated result for the taxpayer based on the second taxpayer datum, and display the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return.1. A system for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return, the system comprising:
a server computer having a predictive model running thereon; and a tax return preparation computer operatively coupled to the server computer by a network and having an electronic tax return preparation program running thereon, wherein the server computer is configured to obtain a first taxpayer datum associated with a taxpayer and execute the predictive model, wherein the predictive model, when executed, analyzes the first taxpayer datum to identify a taxpayer data category as most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer, wherein the server computer is configured to communicate the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant to the tax return preparation computer, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain a second taxpayer datum associated with the taxpayer and corresponding to the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to calculate the estimated result for the taxpayer based, at least in part, on the second taxpayer datum, and wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to display the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the predictive model is an algorithm that was created using a modeling technique selected from the group consisting of Pearson product-moment correction; sensitivity analysis; logistic regression; naive bayes; k-means classification; K-means clustering; other clustering techniques; k-nearest neighbor; neural networks; decision trees; random forests; boosted trees; k-nn classification; kd trees; generalized linear models; support vector machines; and substantial equivalents thereof. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the server computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from the tax return preparation computer. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from the user. 5. The system of claim 3, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from a taxpayer data computer. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the server computer is configured to obtain the first taxpayer datum from a taxpayer data computer. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 9. The system of claim 1, wherein communicating the taxpayer data category identified as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer comprises communicating a sequence of taxpayer data categories with the taxpayer data category at a beginning of the sequence. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the second taxpayer datum from the user. 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the tax return preparation computer is configured to obtain the second taxpayer datum from a taxpayer data computer. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the predictive model includes data analytics. 14. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. 15. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a change in the estimated result based on a change to the taxpayer data category. 16. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes determining a correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result in a plurality of tax returns. 17. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes analyzing a tax code. 18. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
determining a first correlation between the taxpayer data category and a second taxpayer data category; determining a second correlation between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and determining a third correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result based on the first and second correlations. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
calculating a first correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the second taxpayer data category; calculating a second correlation coefficient between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and calculating a third correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result based on the first and second correlation coefficients. 20. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
a. calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients for a respective first plurality of taxpayer data categories and the estimated result; b. eliminating one of the first plurality of taxpayer data categories having a lowest correlation coefficient of the plurality of correlation coefficients from the first plurality of taxpayer data categories to form a second plurality of taxpayer data categories; c. repeating steps a and b with respective pluralities of taxpayer data categories until a single last taxpayer data category remains; and d. identifying the single last taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 21. The system of claim 1, wherein executing the predictive model includes requesting the user to identify the taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 22. A computer-implemented method for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return, the method comprising:
obtaining a first taxpayer datum associated with a taxpayer; executing a predictive model; analyzing the first taxpayer datum to identify a taxpayer data category as most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer; obtaining a second taxpayer datum associated with the taxpayer and corresponding to the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant; calculating the estimated result for the taxpayer based, at least in part, on the second taxpayer datum; and displaying the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the predictive model is an algorithm that was created using a modeling technique selected from the group consisting of Pearson product-moment correction; sensitivity analysis; logistic regression; naive bayes; k-means classification; K-means clustering; other clustering techniques; k-nearest neighbor; neural networks; decision trees; random forests; boosted trees; k-nn classification; kd trees; generalized linear models; support vector machines; and substantial equivalents thereof. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the first taxpayer datum is obtained from the user. 25. The method of claim 22, wherein the first taxpayer datum is obtained from a taxpayer data computer. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 27. The method of claim 22, further comprising generating a sequence of taxpayer data categories with the taxpayer data category at a beginning of the sequence. 28. The method of claim 22, wherein the second taxpayer datum is obtained from the user. 29. The method of claim 22, wherein the second taxpayer datum is obtained from a taxpayer data computer. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the taxpayer data computer is a third party computer. 31. The method of claim 22, wherein the predictive model includes data analytics. 32. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. 33. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes calculating a change in the estimated result based on a change to the taxpayer data category. 34. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes determining a correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result in a plurality of tax returns. 35. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes analyzing a tax code. 36. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
determining a first correlation between the taxpayer data category and a second taxpayer data category; determining a second correlation between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and determining a third correlation between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result from the first and second correlations. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
calculating a first correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the second taxpayer data category; calculating a second correlation coefficient between the estimated result and the second taxpayer data category; and calculating a third correlation coefficient between the taxpayer data category and the estimated result based on the first and second correlation coefficients. 38. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes:
a. calculating a plurality of correlation coefficients for a respective first plurality of taxpayer data categories and the estimated result; b. eliminating one of the first plurality of taxpayer data categories having a lowest correlation coefficient of the plurality of correlation coefficients from the first plurality of taxpayer data categories to form a second plurality of taxpayer data categories; c. repeating steps a and b with respective pluralities of taxpayer data categories until a single last taxpayer data category remains; and d. identifying the single last taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 39. The method of claim 22, wherein executing the predictive model includes requesting the user to identify the taxpayer data category as the most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer. 40. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable storage medium embodying one or more instructions executable by a computer system having a server computer and a tax return preparation computer to perform a process for calculating an estimated result during preparation of an electronic tax return, the process comprising obtaining a first taxpayer datum associated with a taxpayer, executing a predictive model, analyzing the first taxpayer datum to identify a taxpayer data category as most relevant to the estimated result for the taxpayer, obtaining a second taxpayer datum associated with the taxpayer and corresponding to the taxpayer data category identified as most relevant, calculating the estimated result for the taxpayer based, at least in part, on the second taxpayer datum, and displaying the estimated result to a user during preparation of the electronic tax return. | 3,600 |
13,357 | 13,357 | 15,476,206 | 3,616 | A hybrid battery system of an automotive vehicle provides power to various features without running an internal combustion engine. | 1-20. (canceled) 21. A vehicle power system comprising:
an external 110V power outlet, an inverter, a DC/DC converter, and a traction battery operatively arranged with one another; and a controller programmed to, responsive to a demand for power at the power outlet and a state of charge of the traction battery exceeding a threshold, command the traction battery to power the DC/DC converter to provide power to satisfy the demand via the inverter and power outlet. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the controller is further programmed to alter the threshold based on a stand time associated with the traction battery. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the threshold increases as the stand time increases. 24. The system of claim 21, wherein the controller is further programmed to alter the threshold based on a temperature of the traction battery. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the threshold increases as the temperature decreases. 26. The system of claim 24, wherein the threshold decreases as the temperature increases. 27. A method for operating a power system of a vehicle, the method comprising:
by a controller, responsive to a demand for power at an external 110V power outlet and a state of charge of a traction battery exceeding a threshold, commanding the traction battery to power a DC/DC converter to provide power to satisfy the demand via an inverter and the power outlet. 28. The method of claim 27 further comprising altering the threshold based on a stand time associated with the traction battery. 29. The method of claim 28 further comprising increasing the threshold as the stand time increases. 30. The method of claim 27 further comprising altering the threshold based on a temperature of the traction battery. 31. The method of claim 30 further comprising increasing the threshold as the temperature decreases. 32. The method of claim 30 further comprising decreasing the threshold as the temperature increases. | A hybrid battery system of an automotive vehicle provides power to various features without running an internal combustion engine.1-20. (canceled) 21. A vehicle power system comprising:
an external 110V power outlet, an inverter, a DC/DC converter, and a traction battery operatively arranged with one another; and a controller programmed to, responsive to a demand for power at the power outlet and a state of charge of the traction battery exceeding a threshold, command the traction battery to power the DC/DC converter to provide power to satisfy the demand via the inverter and power outlet. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the controller is further programmed to alter the threshold based on a stand time associated with the traction battery. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the threshold increases as the stand time increases. 24. The system of claim 21, wherein the controller is further programmed to alter the threshold based on a temperature of the traction battery. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the threshold increases as the temperature decreases. 26. The system of claim 24, wherein the threshold decreases as the temperature increases. 27. A method for operating a power system of a vehicle, the method comprising:
by a controller, responsive to a demand for power at an external 110V power outlet and a state of charge of a traction battery exceeding a threshold, commanding the traction battery to power a DC/DC converter to provide power to satisfy the demand via an inverter and the power outlet. 28. The method of claim 27 further comprising altering the threshold based on a stand time associated with the traction battery. 29. The method of claim 28 further comprising increasing the threshold as the stand time increases. 30. The method of claim 27 further comprising altering the threshold based on a temperature of the traction battery. 31. The method of claim 30 further comprising increasing the threshold as the temperature decreases. 32. The method of claim 30 further comprising decreasing the threshold as the temperature increases. | 3,600 |
13,358 | 13,358 | 14,626,253 | 3,682 | A computer-implemented method involves receiving a promotional code for an offer and an identifier for a user as part of a request for a dynamic landing page user interface, wherein a database contains an indication that the user has selected the offer. The promotional code is used to identify at least one product associated with the promotional code. The dynamic landing page user interface is transmitted to display an identifier for the at least one product, a discount associated with the offer and a control for adding the at least one product to an electronic shopping cart. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving a promotional code for an offer and an identifier for a user as part of a request for a dynamic landing page user interface, wherein a database contains an indication that the user has selected the offer; using the promotional code to identify at least one product associated with the promotional code; and transmitting the dynamic landing page user interface to display an identifier for the at least one product, a discount associated with the offer and a control for adding the at least one product to an electronic shopping cart. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving an indication that the control for adding the at least one product to the electronic shopping cart has been selected and in response adding the at least one product to the electronic shopping cart;
completing a purchase transaction of the at least one product added to the shopping cart by applying the discount associated with the offer;
determining an amount saved by the application of the discount; and
sending the amount saved and the identifier for the user to a server that contains the indication that the user had selected the offer. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 wherein using the promotional code to identify at least one product associated with the promotional code comprises identifying multiple products associated with the promotional code. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3 wherein transmitting a page comprises transmitting a control to allow a user to disambiguate which of the multiple products are to be added to the electronic shopping cart. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving a plurality of promotional codes for a plurality of different offers as part of the request for the dynamic landing page user interface, the database containing an indication that the user has selected each of the plurality of different offers;
using the promotional codes to identify a respective product associated with each promotional code; and
transmitting the dynamic landing page user interface to display an identifier for a respective product for each promotional code, a respective discount associated with each promotional code and a respective control for adding the respective product for each promotional code to the electronic shopping cart. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5 further comprising:
receiving an indication that one of the respective controls for adding a respective product to the electronic shopping cart has been selected and in response adding the respective product to the electronic shopping cart;
completing a purchase transaction of the respective product added to the shopping cart by applying the respective discount associated with the respective product;
determining an amount saved by the application of the respective discount; and
sending the amount saved and the identifier for the user to a server that contains the indication that the user had selected the respective offer. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 6 wherein completing a purchase transaction of the respective product added to the shopping cart comprises completing a purchase transaction of fewer than all of the respective products transmitted on the dynamic landing page user interface. 8. A computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions stored thereon that cause a processor to perform steps comprising:
displaying a set of available retail offers; receiving a selection of at least one of the available retail offers and based on the selection, designating the at least one available retail offer as a selected offer; displaying a set of multiple selected offers and a control to redeem selected offers online; receiving a selection of the control; and transmitting a code for at least one of the multiple selected offers and a user ID for a user to an online retail website in response to the selection of the control. 9. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein displaying a set of available retail offers comprises displaying retail offers that can be redeemed at physical stores and offers that can be redeemed at the online retail website. 10. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein transmitting a code for at least one of the multiple selected offers and a user ID to an online retail website comprises transmitting the code and the user ID as part of a request for a dynamic landing page of the online retail website. 11. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein the step of displaying multiple selected offers is performed before items have been placed in an electronic shopping cart. 12. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein displaying a list of multiple selected offers comprises displaying an indication of which of the multiple selected offers may be redeemed online. 13. The computer-readable medium of claim 12 wherein transmitting a code comprises transmitting codes only for offers that had a displayed indication that the offers could be redeemed online. 14. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 further comprising displaying an amount saved that is based on offers redeemed online and offers redeemed at physical stores. 15. A computer-implemented method comprising:
displaying a set of available offers; receiving an input representing a selection of one of the available offers; based on the input, storing an indication that the available offer was selected by a user; and displaying a set of offers selected by the user along with a control to request a page that facilitates online purchase of items associated with the selected offers. 16. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 further comprising retrieving an amount the user has saved on purchases of items by redeeming previously selected offers and displaying the amount saved on purchases with the set of offers selected by the user. 17. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 wherein the amount the user has saved on purchases of items by redeeming previously selected offers comprises a sum of an amount the user saved by redeeming previously selected offers at physical stores and the amount the user saved redeeming previously selected offers online. 18. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 wherein displaying a set of offers selected by a user further comprises displaying an indication of which selected offers can be redeemed online. 19. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 wherein the control to request a page comprises a link to a dynamic landing page that provides the ability to add each respective item associated with the selected offers to an electronic shopping cart. 20. The computer-implemented method of claim 19 wherein the dynamic landing page further comprises at least one disambiguation control to disambiguate which item is being purchased using one of the selected offers. | A computer-implemented method involves receiving a promotional code for an offer and an identifier for a user as part of a request for a dynamic landing page user interface, wherein a database contains an indication that the user has selected the offer. The promotional code is used to identify at least one product associated with the promotional code. The dynamic landing page user interface is transmitted to display an identifier for the at least one product, a discount associated with the offer and a control for adding the at least one product to an electronic shopping cart.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving a promotional code for an offer and an identifier for a user as part of a request for a dynamic landing page user interface, wherein a database contains an indication that the user has selected the offer; using the promotional code to identify at least one product associated with the promotional code; and transmitting the dynamic landing page user interface to display an identifier for the at least one product, a discount associated with the offer and a control for adding the at least one product to an electronic shopping cart. 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving an indication that the control for adding the at least one product to the electronic shopping cart has been selected and in response adding the at least one product to the electronic shopping cart;
completing a purchase transaction of the at least one product added to the shopping cart by applying the discount associated with the offer;
determining an amount saved by the application of the discount; and
sending the amount saved and the identifier for the user to a server that contains the indication that the user had selected the offer. 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 wherein using the promotional code to identify at least one product associated with the promotional code comprises identifying multiple products associated with the promotional code. 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 3 wherein transmitting a page comprises transmitting a control to allow a user to disambiguate which of the multiple products are to be added to the electronic shopping cart. 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving a plurality of promotional codes for a plurality of different offers as part of the request for the dynamic landing page user interface, the database containing an indication that the user has selected each of the plurality of different offers;
using the promotional codes to identify a respective product associated with each promotional code; and
transmitting the dynamic landing page user interface to display an identifier for a respective product for each promotional code, a respective discount associated with each promotional code and a respective control for adding the respective product for each promotional code to the electronic shopping cart. 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5 further comprising:
receiving an indication that one of the respective controls for adding a respective product to the electronic shopping cart has been selected and in response adding the respective product to the electronic shopping cart;
completing a purchase transaction of the respective product added to the shopping cart by applying the respective discount associated with the respective product;
determining an amount saved by the application of the respective discount; and
sending the amount saved and the identifier for the user to a server that contains the indication that the user had selected the respective offer. 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 6 wherein completing a purchase transaction of the respective product added to the shopping cart comprises completing a purchase transaction of fewer than all of the respective products transmitted on the dynamic landing page user interface. 8. A computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions stored thereon that cause a processor to perform steps comprising:
displaying a set of available retail offers; receiving a selection of at least one of the available retail offers and based on the selection, designating the at least one available retail offer as a selected offer; displaying a set of multiple selected offers and a control to redeem selected offers online; receiving a selection of the control; and transmitting a code for at least one of the multiple selected offers and a user ID for a user to an online retail website in response to the selection of the control. 9. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein displaying a set of available retail offers comprises displaying retail offers that can be redeemed at physical stores and offers that can be redeemed at the online retail website. 10. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein transmitting a code for at least one of the multiple selected offers and a user ID to an online retail website comprises transmitting the code and the user ID as part of a request for a dynamic landing page of the online retail website. 11. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein the step of displaying multiple selected offers is performed before items have been placed in an electronic shopping cart. 12. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 wherein displaying a list of multiple selected offers comprises displaying an indication of which of the multiple selected offers may be redeemed online. 13. The computer-readable medium of claim 12 wherein transmitting a code comprises transmitting codes only for offers that had a displayed indication that the offers could be redeemed online. 14. The computer-readable medium of claim 8 further comprising displaying an amount saved that is based on offers redeemed online and offers redeemed at physical stores. 15. A computer-implemented method comprising:
displaying a set of available offers; receiving an input representing a selection of one of the available offers; based on the input, storing an indication that the available offer was selected by a user; and displaying a set of offers selected by the user along with a control to request a page that facilitates online purchase of items associated with the selected offers. 16. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 further comprising retrieving an amount the user has saved on purchases of items by redeeming previously selected offers and displaying the amount saved on purchases with the set of offers selected by the user. 17. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 wherein the amount the user has saved on purchases of items by redeeming previously selected offers comprises a sum of an amount the user saved by redeeming previously selected offers at physical stores and the amount the user saved redeeming previously selected offers online. 18. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 wherein displaying a set of offers selected by a user further comprises displaying an indication of which selected offers can be redeemed online. 19. The computer-implemented method of claim 15 wherein the control to request a page comprises a link to a dynamic landing page that provides the ability to add each respective item associated with the selected offers to an electronic shopping cart. 20. The computer-implemented method of claim 19 wherein the dynamic landing page further comprises at least one disambiguation control to disambiguate which item is being purchased using one of the selected offers. | 3,600 |
13,359 | 13,359 | 14,699,387 | 3,624 | A method of automatically selecting tests for execution on a software product includes generating a cost model based on test performance history data that is based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on the software product, wherein the cost model provides, for each test in the plurality of tests, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test. The method includes automatically selecting tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second expected monetary cost values. | 1. A method of automatically selecting tests for execution on a software product, the method comprising:
generating a cost model based on test performance history data that is based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on the software product, wherein the cost model provides, for each test in the plurality of tests, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test; automatically selecting tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second expected monetary cost values; and wherein the generating a cost model and automatically selecting tests are performed by at least one processor. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the test performance history data includes execution context information for each execution of one of the tests in the plurality of tests. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the execution context information includes at least one of a build type of software code being tested, an architecture type of execution hardware that is being simulated, language of the software code being tested, and an identification of a code branch on which test execution was performed. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the test performance history data further includes, for each execution of one of the tests in the plurality of tests, a unique identifier, a duration of test execution, and test results information. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the test results information identifies successfully passed tests, true positive test failures indicating code-related defects, and false positive test failures indicating non-code-related defects. 6. The method of claim 5, and further comprising:
automatically determining whether a test failure is a true positive test failure or a false positive test failure based on at least one bug report. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the first expected monetary cost includes an estimated monetary cost of infrastructure to execute a test. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first expected monetary cost further includes an estimated monetary cost for human inspection of a false positive test failure. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the estimated monetary cost for human inspection is multiplied by a probability value that represents a probability of detecting a false positive test failure. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the second expected monetary cost value includes an estimated monetary cost of an escaped code defect. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the estimated monetary cost of the escaped code defect is multiplied by a probability value that represents a probability of detecting a true positive test failure. 12. The method of claim 1, and further comprising:
for each past execution of each test in the plurality of tests, recording in the test performance history data a corresponding execution context; and for each of the execution contexts of each of the tests in the plurality of tests, determining a first test-specific and context-specific expected monetary cost value associated with test execution, and a second test-specific and context-specific expected monetary cost value associated with skipping test execution. 13. The method of claim 12, and further comprising:
automatically selecting tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second test-specific and context-specific expected monetary cost values. 14. A computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions that when executed by at least one processor cause the at least one processor to perform a method, comprising:
generating a cost model based on test performance history data that is based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on a software product, wherein the cost model provides, for each test in the plurality of tests, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test; selecting a first test in the plurality of tests for future execution when the second expected monetary cost value for the first test exceeds the first expected monetary cost value for the first test; and skipping a future scheduled execution of the first test when the first expected monetary cost value for the first test exceeds the second expected monetary cost value for the first test. 15. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein the test performance history data includes execution context information for each execution of one of the tests in the plurality of tests. 16. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the execution context information includes at least one of a build type of software code being tested, an architecture type of execution hardware that is being simulated, language of the software code being tested, and an identification of a code branch on which test execution was performed. 17. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the test performance history data further includes test results information that identifies successfully passed tests, true positive test failures indicating code-related defects, and false positive test failures indicating non-code-related defects. 18. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein the first expected monetary cost includes an estimated monetary cost of infrastructure to execute a test, and an estimated monetary cost for human inspection of a false positive test failure. 19. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein the second expected monetary cost value includes an estimated monetary cost of an escaped code defect. 20. A code test selection system, comprising:
a test performance history module configured to provide test performance history data based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on a software product for a plurality of execution contexts; a cost model module configured to identify for each test in the plurality of tests and for each of the execution contexts, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test in that execution context and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test; and a test selection module configured to automatically select tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second expected monetary cost values. | A method of automatically selecting tests for execution on a software product includes generating a cost model based on test performance history data that is based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on the software product, wherein the cost model provides, for each test in the plurality of tests, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test. The method includes automatically selecting tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second expected monetary cost values.1. A method of automatically selecting tests for execution on a software product, the method comprising:
generating a cost model based on test performance history data that is based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on the software product, wherein the cost model provides, for each test in the plurality of tests, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test; automatically selecting tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second expected monetary cost values; and wherein the generating a cost model and automatically selecting tests are performed by at least one processor. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the test performance history data includes execution context information for each execution of one of the tests in the plurality of tests. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the execution context information includes at least one of a build type of software code being tested, an architecture type of execution hardware that is being simulated, language of the software code being tested, and an identification of a code branch on which test execution was performed. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the test performance history data further includes, for each execution of one of the tests in the plurality of tests, a unique identifier, a duration of test execution, and test results information. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the test results information identifies successfully passed tests, true positive test failures indicating code-related defects, and false positive test failures indicating non-code-related defects. 6. The method of claim 5, and further comprising:
automatically determining whether a test failure is a true positive test failure or a false positive test failure based on at least one bug report. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the first expected monetary cost includes an estimated monetary cost of infrastructure to execute a test. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first expected monetary cost further includes an estimated monetary cost for human inspection of a false positive test failure. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the estimated monetary cost for human inspection is multiplied by a probability value that represents a probability of detecting a false positive test failure. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the second expected monetary cost value includes an estimated monetary cost of an escaped code defect. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the estimated monetary cost of the escaped code defect is multiplied by a probability value that represents a probability of detecting a true positive test failure. 12. The method of claim 1, and further comprising:
for each past execution of each test in the plurality of tests, recording in the test performance history data a corresponding execution context; and for each of the execution contexts of each of the tests in the plurality of tests, determining a first test-specific and context-specific expected monetary cost value associated with test execution, and a second test-specific and context-specific expected monetary cost value associated with skipping test execution. 13. The method of claim 12, and further comprising:
automatically selecting tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second test-specific and context-specific expected monetary cost values. 14. A computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions that when executed by at least one processor cause the at least one processor to perform a method, comprising:
generating a cost model based on test performance history data that is based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on a software product, wherein the cost model provides, for each test in the plurality of tests, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test; selecting a first test in the plurality of tests for future execution when the second expected monetary cost value for the first test exceeds the first expected monetary cost value for the first test; and skipping a future scheduled execution of the first test when the first expected monetary cost value for the first test exceeds the second expected monetary cost value for the first test. 15. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein the test performance history data includes execution context information for each execution of one of the tests in the plurality of tests. 16. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the execution context information includes at least one of a build type of software code being tested, an architecture type of execution hardware that is being simulated, language of the software code being tested, and an identification of a code branch on which test execution was performed. 17. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the test performance history data further includes test results information that identifies successfully passed tests, true positive test failures indicating code-related defects, and false positive test failures indicating non-code-related defects. 18. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein the first expected monetary cost includes an estimated monetary cost of infrastructure to execute a test, and an estimated monetary cost for human inspection of a false positive test failure. 19. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein the second expected monetary cost value includes an estimated monetary cost of an escaped code defect. 20. A code test selection system, comprising:
a test performance history module configured to provide test performance history data based on results of past executions of a plurality of tests on a software product for a plurality of execution contexts; a cost model module configured to identify for each test in the plurality of tests and for each of the execution contexts, a first expected monetary cost value associated with executing the test in that execution context and a second expected monetary cost value associated with skipping execution of the test; and a test selection module configured to automatically select tests in the plurality of tests for future execution based on the first and second expected monetary cost values. | 3,600 |
13,360 | 13,360 | 13,466,909 | 3,683 | For a plurality of subscribers of network content, a first value per subscriber of may be determined. The determination may be based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement. The first value per subscriber may be compared with a value associated with a second advertisement. The effectiveness of the second advertisement may be evaluated based on the comparison. | 1. A computer-implemented method, comprising:
for a plurality of subscribers of network content, determining a first value per subscriber, wherein said determining is based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement; comparing the first value per subscriber with a value associated with a second advertisement; and evaluating an effectiveness of the second advertisement based on said comparing. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the value associated with the second advertisement is an acquisition cost of a new subscriber for the second advertisement. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the acquisition cost of a new subscriber for the second advertisement is based on a cost of the second advertisement and a number of new subscribers acquired after the second advertisement is made available. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the value associated with the second advertisement is a second value per subscriber of the network content based on other conversion data for the second advertisement. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber includes:
receiving a number of the plurality of subscribers of the network content at the time of the first advertisement; receiving the conversion data, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions that used a tracking code of the first advertisement; and determining the first value per subscriber based on the received conversion data and the received number of the plurality of subscribers. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the network content is configured to present the first advertisement within the network content, wherein a selectable element of the first advertisement is selectable to present other network content, and wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made from the other network content that result from selection of the selectable element. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the network content is a company affiliated content page of a social networking content site, wherein the company affiliated content page is configured to present the first advertisement, wherein the first advertisement is accessible by the plurality of subscribers. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first advertisement includes a selectable element that is selectable to present a company content site, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made on the company content site that result from selection of the selectable element. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber is performed according to demographics of the plurality of subscribers. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made over a predefined period of time. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber is further based on previous conversion data associated with one or more previous advertisements. 12. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining whether to continue the second advertisement based on said evaluating. 13. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions, wherein the program instructions are computer-executable to implement:
for a plurality of subscribers of network content, determining a first value per subscriber, wherein said determining is based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement; comparing the first value per subscriber with a value associated with a second advertisement; and evaluating an effectiveness of the second advertisement based on said comparing. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber includes:
receiving a number of the plurality of subscribers of the network content at the time of the first advertisement; receiving the conversion data, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions that used a tracking code of the first advertisement; and determining the first value per subscriber based on the received conversion data and the received number of the plurality of subscribers. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the network content is a company affiliated content page of a social networking content site, wherein the company affiliated content page is configured to present the first advertisement, wherein the first advertisement is accessible by the plurality of subscribers. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the first advertisement includes a selectable element that is selectable to present a company content site, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made on the company content site that result from selection of the selectable element. 17. A system, comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory comprising program instructions, wherein the program instructions are executable by the at least one processor to:
for a plurality of subscribers of network content, determine a first value per subscriber, wherein said determining is based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement;
compare the first value per subscriber with a value associated with a second advertisement; and
evaluate an effectiveness of the second advertisement based on said comparing. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein to perform said determining the first value per subscriber, the program instructions are further executable by the at least one processor to:
receive a number of the plurality of subscribers of the network content at the time of the first advertisement; receive the conversion data, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions that used a tracking code of the first advertisement; and determine the first value per subscriber based on the received conversion data and the received number of the plurality of subscribers. 19. The system of claim 17, wherein the network content is a company affiliated content page of a social networking content site, wherein the company affiliated content page is configured to present the first advertisement, wherein the first advertisement is accessible by the plurality of subscribers. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the first advertisement includes a selectable element that is selectable to present a company content site, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made on the company content site that result from selection of the selectable element. | For a plurality of subscribers of network content, a first value per subscriber of may be determined. The determination may be based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement. The first value per subscriber may be compared with a value associated with a second advertisement. The effectiveness of the second advertisement may be evaluated based on the comparison.1. A computer-implemented method, comprising:
for a plurality of subscribers of network content, determining a first value per subscriber, wherein said determining is based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement; comparing the first value per subscriber with a value associated with a second advertisement; and evaluating an effectiveness of the second advertisement based on said comparing. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the value associated with the second advertisement is an acquisition cost of a new subscriber for the second advertisement. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the acquisition cost of a new subscriber for the second advertisement is based on a cost of the second advertisement and a number of new subscribers acquired after the second advertisement is made available. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the value associated with the second advertisement is a second value per subscriber of the network content based on other conversion data for the second advertisement. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber includes:
receiving a number of the plurality of subscribers of the network content at the time of the first advertisement; receiving the conversion data, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions that used a tracking code of the first advertisement; and determining the first value per subscriber based on the received conversion data and the received number of the plurality of subscribers. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the network content is configured to present the first advertisement within the network content, wherein a selectable element of the first advertisement is selectable to present other network content, and wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made from the other network content that result from selection of the selectable element. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the network content is a company affiliated content page of a social networking content site, wherein the company affiliated content page is configured to present the first advertisement, wherein the first advertisement is accessible by the plurality of subscribers. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the first advertisement includes a selectable element that is selectable to present a company content site, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made on the company content site that result from selection of the selectable element. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber is performed according to demographics of the plurality of subscribers. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made over a predefined period of time. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber is further based on previous conversion data associated with one or more previous advertisements. 12. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining whether to continue the second advertisement based on said evaluating. 13. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions, wherein the program instructions are computer-executable to implement:
for a plurality of subscribers of network content, determining a first value per subscriber, wherein said determining is based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement; comparing the first value per subscriber with a value associated with a second advertisement; and evaluating an effectiveness of the second advertisement based on said comparing. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein said determining the first value per subscriber includes:
receiving a number of the plurality of subscribers of the network content at the time of the first advertisement; receiving the conversion data, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions that used a tracking code of the first advertisement; and determining the first value per subscriber based on the received conversion data and the received number of the plurality of subscribers. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the network content is a company affiliated content page of a social networking content site, wherein the company affiliated content page is configured to present the first advertisement, wherein the first advertisement is accessible by the plurality of subscribers. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the first advertisement includes a selectable element that is selectable to present a company content site, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made on the company content site that result from selection of the selectable element. 17. A system, comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory comprising program instructions, wherein the program instructions are executable by the at least one processor to:
for a plurality of subscribers of network content, determine a first value per subscriber, wherein said determining is based on conversion data associated with a first advertisement;
compare the first value per subscriber with a value associated with a second advertisement; and
evaluate an effectiveness of the second advertisement based on said comparing. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein to perform said determining the first value per subscriber, the program instructions are further executable by the at least one processor to:
receive a number of the plurality of subscribers of the network content at the time of the first advertisement; receive the conversion data, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions that used a tracking code of the first advertisement; and determine the first value per subscriber based on the received conversion data and the received number of the plurality of subscribers. 19. The system of claim 17, wherein the network content is a company affiliated content page of a social networking content site, wherein the company affiliated content page is configured to present the first advertisement, wherein the first advertisement is accessible by the plurality of subscribers. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the first advertisement includes a selectable element that is selectable to present a company content site, wherein the conversion data is based on one or more conversions made on the company content site that result from selection of the selectable element. | 3,600 |
13,361 | 13,361 | 13,795,802 | 3,623 | Disclosed is an improved method, system, and computer program product for performing trend analysis of themes from social media data. Semantic analysis is performed on content that appear on social media sites. The results of the semantic analysis can be used to identify themes within the social media data over a period of time. Trend analysis is performed over the identified themes. An enterprise or business can more effectively market to the consumers based upon this knowledge of the consumers' interests. | 1. A computer implemented method for analyzing social media data, comprising:
receiving social media data from one or more social media sources; performing semantic analysis upon the social media data over a timeframe; generating a trend analysis for the social media data for a topic of interest to a business enterprise; and generating actionable data that can be acted upon by the business enterprise to address the trend analysis data. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the trend analysis data comprises theme analysis corresponding to consumer interest over the timeframe. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the trend analysis comprises sentiment analysis for the topic over the timeframe. 4. The method of claim 3, in which the trend analysis further comprises theme analysis for the topic, and sentiment analysis and the theme analysis are reviewed in conjunction with each other. 5. The method of claim 1, in which the semantic analysis comprises latent semantic analysis that analyzes contextual and semantic significance of terms that appear within the social media data. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein semantic filtering is performed to reduce irrelevant data. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the actionable data is supplied to an enterprise software system. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the enterprise software system comprises at least one of a customer relations management (“CRM”) application, enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) application, and supply chain management application. 9. A computer program product embodied on a computer usable medium, the computer readable medium having stored thereon a sequence of instructions which, when executed by a processor causes the processor to execute a method for analyzing social media data, the method comprising:
receiving social media data from one or more social media sources; performing semantic analysis upon the social media data over a timeframe; generating a trend analysis for the social media data for a topic of interest to a business enterprise; and generating actionable data that can be acted upon by the business enterprise to address the trend analysis data. 10. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the trend analysis data comprises theme analysis corresponding to consumer interest over the timeframe. 11. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the trend analysis comprises sentiment analysis for the topic over the timeframe. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, in which the trend analysis further comprises theme analysis for the topic, and sentiment analysis and the theme analysis are reviewed in conjunction with each other. 13. The computer program product of claim 9, in which the semantic analysis comprises latent semantic analysis that analyzes contextual and semantic significance of terms that appear within the social media data. 14. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein semantic filtering is performed to reduce irrelevant data. 15. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the actionable data is supplied to an enterprise software system. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the enterprise software system comprises at least one of a customer relations management (“CRM”) application, enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) application, and supply chain management application. 17. A computer system for analyzing social media data, comprising:
a computer processor to execute a set of program code instructions; and a memory to hold the program code instructions, in which the program code instructions comprises program code to perform, wherein the program code instructions comprises instructions for receiving social media data from one or more social media sources, performing semantic analysis upon the social media data over a timeframe, generating a trend analysis for the social media data for a topic of interest to a business enterprise, and generating actionable data that can be acted upon by the business enterprise to address the trend analysis data. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the trend analysis data comprises theme analysis corresponding to consumer interest over the timeframe. 19. The system of claim 17, wherein the trend analysis comprises sentiment analysis for the topic over the timeframe. 20. The system of claim 19, in which the trend analysis further comprises theme analysis for the topic, and sentiment analysis and the theme analysis are reviewed in conjunction with each other. 21. The system of claim 17, in which the semantic analysis comprises latent semantic analysis that analyzes contextual and semantic significance of terms that appear within the social media data. 22. The system of claim 17, wherein semantic filtering is performed to reduce irrelevant data. 23. The system of claim 17, wherein the actionable data is supplied to an enterprise software system. 24. The system of claim 23, wherein the enterprise software system comprises at least one of a customer relations management (“CRM”) application, enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) application, and supply chain management application. | Disclosed is an improved method, system, and computer program product for performing trend analysis of themes from social media data. Semantic analysis is performed on content that appear on social media sites. The results of the semantic analysis can be used to identify themes within the social media data over a period of time. Trend analysis is performed over the identified themes. An enterprise or business can more effectively market to the consumers based upon this knowledge of the consumers' interests.1. A computer implemented method for analyzing social media data, comprising:
receiving social media data from one or more social media sources; performing semantic analysis upon the social media data over a timeframe; generating a trend analysis for the social media data for a topic of interest to a business enterprise; and generating actionable data that can be acted upon by the business enterprise to address the trend analysis data. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the trend analysis data comprises theme analysis corresponding to consumer interest over the timeframe. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the trend analysis comprises sentiment analysis for the topic over the timeframe. 4. The method of claim 3, in which the trend analysis further comprises theme analysis for the topic, and sentiment analysis and the theme analysis are reviewed in conjunction with each other. 5. The method of claim 1, in which the semantic analysis comprises latent semantic analysis that analyzes contextual and semantic significance of terms that appear within the social media data. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein semantic filtering is performed to reduce irrelevant data. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the actionable data is supplied to an enterprise software system. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the enterprise software system comprises at least one of a customer relations management (“CRM”) application, enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) application, and supply chain management application. 9. A computer program product embodied on a computer usable medium, the computer readable medium having stored thereon a sequence of instructions which, when executed by a processor causes the processor to execute a method for analyzing social media data, the method comprising:
receiving social media data from one or more social media sources; performing semantic analysis upon the social media data over a timeframe; generating a trend analysis for the social media data for a topic of interest to a business enterprise; and generating actionable data that can be acted upon by the business enterprise to address the trend analysis data. 10. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the trend analysis data comprises theme analysis corresponding to consumer interest over the timeframe. 11. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the trend analysis comprises sentiment analysis for the topic over the timeframe. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, in which the trend analysis further comprises theme analysis for the topic, and sentiment analysis and the theme analysis are reviewed in conjunction with each other. 13. The computer program product of claim 9, in which the semantic analysis comprises latent semantic analysis that analyzes contextual and semantic significance of terms that appear within the social media data. 14. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein semantic filtering is performed to reduce irrelevant data. 15. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the actionable data is supplied to an enterprise software system. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the enterprise software system comprises at least one of a customer relations management (“CRM”) application, enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) application, and supply chain management application. 17. A computer system for analyzing social media data, comprising:
a computer processor to execute a set of program code instructions; and a memory to hold the program code instructions, in which the program code instructions comprises program code to perform, wherein the program code instructions comprises instructions for receiving social media data from one or more social media sources, performing semantic analysis upon the social media data over a timeframe, generating a trend analysis for the social media data for a topic of interest to a business enterprise, and generating actionable data that can be acted upon by the business enterprise to address the trend analysis data. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the trend analysis data comprises theme analysis corresponding to consumer interest over the timeframe. 19. The system of claim 17, wherein the trend analysis comprises sentiment analysis for the topic over the timeframe. 20. The system of claim 19, in which the trend analysis further comprises theme analysis for the topic, and sentiment analysis and the theme analysis are reviewed in conjunction with each other. 21. The system of claim 17, in which the semantic analysis comprises latent semantic analysis that analyzes contextual and semantic significance of terms that appear within the social media data. 22. The system of claim 17, wherein semantic filtering is performed to reduce irrelevant data. 23. The system of claim 17, wherein the actionable data is supplied to an enterprise software system. 24. The system of claim 23, wherein the enterprise software system comprises at least one of a customer relations management (“CRM”) application, enterprise resource planning (“ERP”) application, and supply chain management application. | 3,600 |
13,362 | 13,362 | 13,706,529 | 3,689 | A system is provided that sends data to a safety compliance management system in response to an adverse event. The system receives a first event in response to a first interaction by a user, where the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. The system further receives a second event in response to a second interaction by the user, where the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system. The system further collects data and sends the collected data to the safety compliance management system. | 1. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to send data to a safety compliance management system in response to an adverse event, the sending comprising:
monitoring one or more interactions with an adverse event component by a user of an electronic data capture system, wherein the adverse event component represents the adverse event; receiving a first event in response to a first interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system; receiving a second event in response to a second interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system; collecting data that is stored within the electronic data capture system; and sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system. 2. The computer-readable medium of claim 1,
wherein a timer is initiated to a pre-defined time interval in response to the reception of the first event; and wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system when the pre-defined time interval of the timer elapses before the second event is received. 3. The computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system in near real-time in response to receiving the second event. 4. The computer-readable medium of claim 1,
wherein the adverse event component comprises an adverse event form that is displayed within a user interface of the electronic data capture system; wherein each interaction of the one or more interactions comprises an entering of data within the adverse event form by the user. 5. The computer-readable medium of claim 4, wherein the first interaction comprises selecting a first displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the first displayable element indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. 6. The computer-readable medium of claim 5, wherein the second interaction comprises selecting a second displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the second displayable element indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system. 7. The computer-readable medium of claim 5, wherein the selection of the first displayable element further indicates that the adverse event is a serious adverse event. 8. The computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the collected data comprises safety data, wherein the safety data is defined as a subset of the data stored within the electronic data capture system, and wherein the safety data is associated with the adverse event. 9. The computer-readable medium of claim 8, the sending further comprising defining the subset of the data stored within the electronic data capture system by creating a logical schema that defines the subset of the data stored within the electronic data capture system. 10. The computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the collected data comprises data associated with a clinical trial; and
wherein the adverse event comprises an adverse event associated with the clinical trial. 11. A computer-implemented method for sending data to a safety compliance management system in response to an adverse event, the computer-implemented method comprising:
monitoring one or more interactions with an adverse event component by a user of an electronic data capture system, wherein the adverse event component represents the adverse event; receiving a first event in response to a first interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system; receiving a second event in response to a second interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system; collecting data that is stored within the electronic data capture system; and sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system. 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 11,
wherein a timer is initiated to a pre-defined time interval in response to the reception of the first event; and wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system when the pre-defined time interval of the timer elapses before the second event is received. 13. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system in near real-time in response to receiving the second event. 14. The computer-implemented method of claim 11,
wherein the adverse event component comprises an adverse event form that is displayed within a user interface of the electronic data capture system; wherein each interaction of the one or more interactions comprises an entering of data within the adverse event form by the user. 15. The computer-implemented method of claim 14, wherein the first interaction comprises selecting a first displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the first displayable element indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. 16. A system for sending data related to an adverse event to a safety compliance management system, the system comprising:
a processor; a memory configured to store one or more instructions; a monitoring module configured to monitor one or more interactions with an adverse event component by a user of an electronic data capture system, wherein the adverse event component represents the adverse event; a first event receiving module configured to receive a first event in response to a first interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system; a second event receiving module configured to receive a second event in response to a second interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system; a collecting module configured to collect data that is stored within the electronic data capture system; and a sending module configured to send the collected data to the safety compliance management system. 17. The system of claim 16,
wherein the first event receiving module is further configured to initiate a timer to a pre-defined time interval in response to the reception of the first event; and wherein the sending module is further configured to send the collected data to the safety compliance management system when the pre-defined time interval of the timer elapses before the second event is received. 18. The system of claim 16, wherein the sending module is further configured to send the collected data to the safety compliance management system in near real-time in response to receiving the second event. 19. The system of claim 16,
wherein the adverse event component comprises an adverse event form that is displayed within a user interface of the electronic data capture system; wherein each interaction of the one or more interactions comprises an entering of data within the adverse event form by the user. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the first interaction comprises selecting a first displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the first displayable element indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. | A system is provided that sends data to a safety compliance management system in response to an adverse event. The system receives a first event in response to a first interaction by a user, where the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. The system further receives a second event in response to a second interaction by the user, where the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system. The system further collects data and sends the collected data to the safety compliance management system.1. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to send data to a safety compliance management system in response to an adverse event, the sending comprising:
monitoring one or more interactions with an adverse event component by a user of an electronic data capture system, wherein the adverse event component represents the adverse event; receiving a first event in response to a first interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system; receiving a second event in response to a second interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system; collecting data that is stored within the electronic data capture system; and sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system. 2. The computer-readable medium of claim 1,
wherein a timer is initiated to a pre-defined time interval in response to the reception of the first event; and wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system when the pre-defined time interval of the timer elapses before the second event is received. 3. The computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system in near real-time in response to receiving the second event. 4. The computer-readable medium of claim 1,
wherein the adverse event component comprises an adverse event form that is displayed within a user interface of the electronic data capture system; wherein each interaction of the one or more interactions comprises an entering of data within the adverse event form by the user. 5. The computer-readable medium of claim 4, wherein the first interaction comprises selecting a first displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the first displayable element indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. 6. The computer-readable medium of claim 5, wherein the second interaction comprises selecting a second displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the second displayable element indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system. 7. The computer-readable medium of claim 5, wherein the selection of the first displayable element further indicates that the adverse event is a serious adverse event. 8. The computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the collected data comprises safety data, wherein the safety data is defined as a subset of the data stored within the electronic data capture system, and wherein the safety data is associated with the adverse event. 9. The computer-readable medium of claim 8, the sending further comprising defining the subset of the data stored within the electronic data capture system by creating a logical schema that defines the subset of the data stored within the electronic data capture system. 10. The computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the collected data comprises data associated with a clinical trial; and
wherein the adverse event comprises an adverse event associated with the clinical trial. 11. A computer-implemented method for sending data to a safety compliance management system in response to an adverse event, the computer-implemented method comprising:
monitoring one or more interactions with an adverse event component by a user of an electronic data capture system, wherein the adverse event component represents the adverse event; receiving a first event in response to a first interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system; receiving a second event in response to a second interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system; collecting data that is stored within the electronic data capture system; and sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system. 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 11,
wherein a timer is initiated to a pre-defined time interval in response to the reception of the first event; and wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system when the pre-defined time interval of the timer elapses before the second event is received. 13. The computer-implemented method of claim 11, wherein the sending the collected data further comprises sending the collected data to the safety compliance management system in near real-time in response to receiving the second event. 14. The computer-implemented method of claim 11,
wherein the adverse event component comprises an adverse event form that is displayed within a user interface of the electronic data capture system; wherein each interaction of the one or more interactions comprises an entering of data within the adverse event form by the user. 15. The computer-implemented method of claim 14, wherein the first interaction comprises selecting a first displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the first displayable element indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. 16. A system for sending data related to an adverse event to a safety compliance management system, the system comprising:
a processor; a memory configured to store one or more instructions; a monitoring module configured to monitor one or more interactions with an adverse event component by a user of an electronic data capture system, wherein the adverse event component represents the adverse event; a first event receiving module configured to receive a first event in response to a first interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the first event indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system; a second event receiving module configured to receive a second event in response to a second interaction with the adverse event component by the user, wherein the second event indicates that the adverse event is ready to be reported to the safety compliance management system; a collecting module configured to collect data that is stored within the electronic data capture system; and a sending module configured to send the collected data to the safety compliance management system. 17. The system of claim 16,
wherein the first event receiving module is further configured to initiate a timer to a pre-defined time interval in response to the reception of the first event; and wherein the sending module is further configured to send the collected data to the safety compliance management system when the pre-defined time interval of the timer elapses before the second event is received. 18. The system of claim 16, wherein the sending module is further configured to send the collected data to the safety compliance management system in near real-time in response to receiving the second event. 19. The system of claim 16,
wherein the adverse event component comprises an adverse event form that is displayed within a user interface of the electronic data capture system; wherein each interaction of the one or more interactions comprises an entering of data within the adverse event form by the user. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the first interaction comprises selecting a first displayable element displayed within the adverse event form, wherein the selection of the first displayable element indicates that the adverse event is to be reported to the safety compliance management system. | 3,600 |
13,363 | 13,363 | 12,902,406 | 3,668 | Systems and methods for determining a destination location from a communication are described. One embodiment of a method includes receiving electronic communications data from a mobile communications device, at a computing device. The electronic communications data is parsed to identify a partial address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic communications data. A position of the destination location is determined from the partial address term of interest. Routing data of a vehicle from a current location of the vehicle to the destination location is determined and provided to a user of the vehicle. | 1. A method for determining a destination location from a communication, comprising steps of:
receiving electronic communications data from a mobile communications device, at a computing device; parsing the electronic communications data to identify a first partial address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic communications data; determining a position of the destination location, from the first partial address term of interest; determining routing data of a vehicle from a current location of the vehicle to the destination location; and providing the routing data to a user of the vehicle. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the position of the destination location includes determining a plurality of possible destination locations and providing a user option to select from the plurality of possible destination locations. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving an electronic transcript of a textual communication in response to selection of an option on the mobile communications device. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving the electronic communications data in real-time. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first partial address term of interest does not include a portion of a street address. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a user interface to view the electronic communications data. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a user option to select a second partial address term of interest from the electronic communications data, wherein the second partial address term of interest is utilized in determining the destination location. 8. A system for determining a destination location from a communication, comprising:
a memory component that stores location identification logic that is configured to cause the system to perform at least the following:
receive an electronic transcript of the communication from a mobile communications device;
parse the electronic transcript to identify a first non-address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic transcript;
determine a position of the destination location, from the first non-address term of interest;
determine routing data for a vehicle from a current location to the destination location; and
provide the routing data to a user of the vehicle. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein determining the position of the destination location includes determining a plurality of possible destination locations and providing a user option to select from the plurality of possible destination locations. 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to receive the electronic transcript in response to selection of a user option on the mobile communications device. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to receive the electronic transcript in real-time. 12. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to provide a user interface to view the electronic transcript. 13. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to provide a user option to select a second non-address term of interest from the electronic transcript, wherein the second non-address term of interest is utilized in determining the destination location. 14. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for determining a destination location from a communication, the non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform at least the following:
receive electronic communications data from a mobile communications device; parse the electronic communications data to identify a first partial address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic communications data; determine a position of the destination location, from the first partial address term of interest; determine routing data from a current location to the destination location; and provide the routing data to a user of a vehicle. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein determining the position of the destination location includes determining a plurality of possible destination locations and providing a user option to select from the plurality of possible destination locations. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein receiving electronic communications data includes receiving an electronic transcript of a textual communication in response to selection of a user option on the mobile communications device. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the program is further executed to cause the computer to receive the electronic communications data in real-time. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the first partial address term of interest does not include a portion of a street address. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the program is further executed to cause the computer to provide a user interface to view the electronic communications data. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the program is further executed to cause the computer to provide a user option to select a second partial term of interest from the electronic communications data, wherein the second partial term of interest is utilized in determining the destination location. | Systems and methods for determining a destination location from a communication are described. One embodiment of a method includes receiving electronic communications data from a mobile communications device, at a computing device. The electronic communications data is parsed to identify a partial address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic communications data. A position of the destination location is determined from the partial address term of interest. Routing data of a vehicle from a current location of the vehicle to the destination location is determined and provided to a user of the vehicle.1. A method for determining a destination location from a communication, comprising steps of:
receiving electronic communications data from a mobile communications device, at a computing device; parsing the electronic communications data to identify a first partial address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic communications data; determining a position of the destination location, from the first partial address term of interest; determining routing data of a vehicle from a current location of the vehicle to the destination location; and providing the routing data to a user of the vehicle. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the position of the destination location includes determining a plurality of possible destination locations and providing a user option to select from the plurality of possible destination locations. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving an electronic transcript of a textual communication in response to selection of an option on the mobile communications device. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving the electronic communications data in real-time. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first partial address term of interest does not include a portion of a street address. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a user interface to view the electronic communications data. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a user option to select a second partial address term of interest from the electronic communications data, wherein the second partial address term of interest is utilized in determining the destination location. 8. A system for determining a destination location from a communication, comprising:
a memory component that stores location identification logic that is configured to cause the system to perform at least the following:
receive an electronic transcript of the communication from a mobile communications device;
parse the electronic transcript to identify a first non-address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic transcript;
determine a position of the destination location, from the first non-address term of interest;
determine routing data for a vehicle from a current location to the destination location; and
provide the routing data to a user of the vehicle. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein determining the position of the destination location includes determining a plurality of possible destination locations and providing a user option to select from the plurality of possible destination locations. 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to receive the electronic transcript in response to selection of a user option on the mobile communications device. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to receive the electronic transcript in real-time. 12. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to provide a user interface to view the electronic transcript. 13. The system of claim 8, wherein the location identification logic is further configured to provide a user option to select a second non-address term of interest from the electronic transcript, wherein the second non-address term of interest is utilized in determining the destination location. 14. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for determining a destination location from a communication, the non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform at least the following:
receive electronic communications data from a mobile communications device; parse the electronic communications data to identify a first partial address term of interest related to the destination location in the electronic communications data; determine a position of the destination location, from the first partial address term of interest; determine routing data from a current location to the destination location; and provide the routing data to a user of a vehicle. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein determining the position of the destination location includes determining a plurality of possible destination locations and providing a user option to select from the plurality of possible destination locations. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein receiving electronic communications data includes receiving an electronic transcript of a textual communication in response to selection of a user option on the mobile communications device. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the program is further executed to cause the computer to receive the electronic communications data in real-time. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the first partial address term of interest does not include a portion of a street address. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the program is further executed to cause the computer to provide a user interface to view the electronic communications data. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the program is further executed to cause the computer to provide a user option to select a second partial term of interest from the electronic communications data, wherein the second partial term of interest is utilized in determining the destination location. | 3,600 |
13,364 | 13,364 | 13,763,333 | 3,622 | Methods and apparatus for efficient execution of modules are disclosed. An example method includes generating, by a first module, a first module identifier, the first module having been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage, loading, by the first module, a component, communicating the module identifier to the component, determining that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded, and, in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicating, by the first module, the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module | 1. A method comprising;
generating, by a first module, a first module identifier, the first module having been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage; loading, by the first module, a component; communicating the module identifier to the component; determining that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded; and in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicating, by the first module, the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module. 2. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein the module identifier is a random or pseudorandom number. 3. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first module or the second module communicates with the component by posting a message to a message interface. 4. A method as defined in claim 3, wherein the message interface comprises a postMessage application programming interface. 5. A method as defined in claim 3, wherein the message includes at least one of the first module identifier or the second module identifier. 6. (canceled) 7. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein determining that the second module has been loaded comprises monitoring a message interface for a message from the second module. 8. A method as defined in claim 7, wherein the message comprises an announcement that the second module has been loaded. 9. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein the second module communicates the second module identifier to the first module via a message interface. 10. A method as defined in claim 1, further comprising loading a listener to determine when another module has been loaded. 11. A method as defined in claim 1, further comprising determining if another module has loaded the component. 12. A method as defined in claim 11, wherein loading the component is performed in response to determining that another module has not loaded the component. 13. A method as defined in claim 12, further comprising communicating with the other module to access the component when the other module has loaded the component. 14. (canceled) 15. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein the component is a JavaScript script. 16-18. (canceled) 19. A first module comprising;
an identification generator to generate a first module identifier after the module has been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage; a component loader to load a component; a communication interface to communicate the module identifier to the component; and a listener to determine that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded and, in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicate the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module. 20. An apparatus as defined in claim 19, wherein the module identifier is a random or pseudorandom number. 21. An apparatus as defined in claim 19, wherein at least one of the first module or the second module is to communicate with the component by posting a message to a message interface. 22. An apparatus as defined in claim 21, wherein the message interface comprises a postMessage application programming interface. 23. An apparatus as defined in claim 21, wherein the message includes at least one of the first module identifier or the second module identifier. 24. An apparatus as defined in claim 19, wherein listener is to determine that the second module has been loaded by monitoring a message interface for a message from the second module. 25-32. (canceled) 33. A tangible computer readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed cause a machine to at least;
generate a first module identifier for a first module, the first module having been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage; load a component; communicate the module identifier to the component; determine that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded; and in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicate the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module. 34. A tangible computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 33, wherein the module identifier is a random or pseudorandom number. 35. A tangible computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 33, wherein at least one of the first module or the second module communicates with the component by posting a message to a message interface. 36-50. (canceled) | Methods and apparatus for efficient execution of modules are disclosed. An example method includes generating, by a first module, a first module identifier, the first module having been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage, loading, by the first module, a component, communicating the module identifier to the component, determining that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded, and, in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicating, by the first module, the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module1. A method comprising;
generating, by a first module, a first module identifier, the first module having been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage; loading, by the first module, a component; communicating the module identifier to the component; determining that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded; and in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicating, by the first module, the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module. 2. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein the module identifier is a random or pseudorandom number. 3. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first module or the second module communicates with the component by posting a message to a message interface. 4. A method as defined in claim 3, wherein the message interface comprises a postMessage application programming interface. 5. A method as defined in claim 3, wherein the message includes at least one of the first module identifier or the second module identifier. 6. (canceled) 7. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein determining that the second module has been loaded comprises monitoring a message interface for a message from the second module. 8. A method as defined in claim 7, wherein the message comprises an announcement that the second module has been loaded. 9. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein the second module communicates the second module identifier to the first module via a message interface. 10. A method as defined in claim 1, further comprising loading a listener to determine when another module has been loaded. 11. A method as defined in claim 1, further comprising determining if another module has loaded the component. 12. A method as defined in claim 11, wherein loading the component is performed in response to determining that another module has not loaded the component. 13. A method as defined in claim 12, further comprising communicating with the other module to access the component when the other module has loaded the component. 14. (canceled) 15. A method as defined in claim 1, wherein the component is a JavaScript script. 16-18. (canceled) 19. A first module comprising;
an identification generator to generate a first module identifier after the module has been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage; a component loader to load a component; a communication interface to communicate the module identifier to the component; and a listener to determine that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded and, in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicate the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module. 20. An apparatus as defined in claim 19, wherein the module identifier is a random or pseudorandom number. 21. An apparatus as defined in claim 19, wherein at least one of the first module or the second module is to communicate with the component by posting a message to a message interface. 22. An apparatus as defined in claim 21, wherein the message interface comprises a postMessage application programming interface. 23. An apparatus as defined in claim 21, wherein the message includes at least one of the first module identifier or the second module identifier. 24. An apparatus as defined in claim 19, wherein listener is to determine that the second module has been loaded by monitoring a message interface for a message from the second module. 25-32. (canceled) 33. A tangible computer readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed cause a machine to at least;
generate a first module identifier for a first module, the first module having been instantiated by an advertisement on a webpage; load a component; communicate the module identifier to the component; determine that a second module having a second module identifier has been loaded; and in response to determining that the second module has been loaded, communicate the second module identifier to the component to instruct the component to communicate with the second module. 34. A tangible computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 33, wherein the module identifier is a random or pseudorandom number. 35. A tangible computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 33, wherein at least one of the first module or the second module communicates with the component by posting a message to a message interface. 36-50. (canceled) | 3,600 |
13,365 | 13,365 | 12,268,053 | 3,629 | A system and method for enterprise privacy information compliance (EPIC), configured to scan and interrogate a site for privacy compliance based on one or more privacy standards. The method includes identifying at least one website associated with a URL and determining whether the at least one website is compliant with one or more privacy requirements. The method also includes generating a report indicating which of the one or more privacy requirements are met and which of the one or more privacy requirements are unmet. | 1. A computer implemented method for determining privacy compliance comprising:
identifying at least one website associated with a URL; determining whether the at least one website is compliant with one or more privacy requirements; and generating a report indicating which of the one or more privacy requirements are met and which of the one or more privacy requirements are unmet. 2. The computer implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
designating one or more applicable countries, wherein the one or more privacy requirements depend upon the one or more applicable countries; and selecting one or more languages in which to present the one or more privacy requirements. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising calculating a metric, which indicates a level of compliance of the at least one website associated with the URL. 4. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the one or more privacy requirements include at least one of a backout statement, a notice statement, a send statement, and a link to a privacy policy. 5. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the report includes a link to the one or more privacy requirements that are unmet. 6. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the steps of claim 1 are implemented on hardware or a combination of software and hardware. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the steps of claim 1 are offered by a service provider based on one of a fee and subscription basis. 8. A computer program product comprising a computer usable storage medium having readable program code embodied in the storage medium, the computer program product includes at least one component operable to:
scan one or more websites; apply one or more rules to the one or more websites; identify whether the one or more websites comply with the one or more rules; and generate a report for the one or more websites, which includes a comparison of the applied one or more rules and compliance or noncompliance with the applied one or more rules. 9. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the one or more rules include a security level check and a POST form method check. 10. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the one or more rules include at least one of a backout statement, a notice statement, a send statement, and a link to a privacy policy. 11. The computer implemented product of claim 8, further comprising a component operable to filter the one or more websites that have already been scanned or do not include private information. 12. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the one or more rules are configured to be at least one of updated, deleted, and added. 13. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the report is generated in real time. 14. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the applying the one or more rules is performed using only server side code. 15. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the computer program product is at least one of supported, deployed, maintained, and created by a service provider. 16. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the steps are offered by a service provider based on one of a fee and subscription basis. 17. A method for deploying an application for determining privacy compliance, comprising:
providing a computer infrastructure being operable to:
receive at least one URL;
identify an owner of the at least one URL;
check transborder conditions applicable to the at least one URL;
filter out one or more of the at least one URL;
inspect a website associated with the at least one URL for privacy compliance based on one or more privacy requirements; and
generate a report indicating whether the website associated with the at least one URL is compliant with one or more privacy requirements. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more privacy requirements comprise one or more of a secure socket layer security check, a POST form method check, an owner validation, a link to a privacy policy, a backout statement, a notice statement, and a send statement. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein one or more of the backout statement, the notice statement, and the send statement are presented to a user in a plurality of languages. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the computer infrastructure is further operable to calculate a metric, which indicates a level of compliance of the website. 21. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more privacy requirements are configured to be at least one of updated, deleted, and added. 22. The method of claim 17, wherein the filter is configured to filter the one or more URLs that have already been scanned or do not include private information. 23. The method of claim 17, wherein the computer infrastructure is at least one of supported, deployed, maintained, and created by a service provider. 24. The method of claim 17, wherein the steps of claim 17 are offered by a service provider based on one of a fee and subscription basis. 25. A system comprising:
an enterprise privacy information compliance (EPIC) tool configured to scan a website for privacy compliance based on one or more privacy standards, the EPIC tool implemented on an Internet or an intranet and requiring only server side code. | A system and method for enterprise privacy information compliance (EPIC), configured to scan and interrogate a site for privacy compliance based on one or more privacy standards. The method includes identifying at least one website associated with a URL and determining whether the at least one website is compliant with one or more privacy requirements. The method also includes generating a report indicating which of the one or more privacy requirements are met and which of the one or more privacy requirements are unmet.1. A computer implemented method for determining privacy compliance comprising:
identifying at least one website associated with a URL; determining whether the at least one website is compliant with one or more privacy requirements; and generating a report indicating which of the one or more privacy requirements are met and which of the one or more privacy requirements are unmet. 2. The computer implemented method of claim 1, further comprising:
designating one or more applicable countries, wherein the one or more privacy requirements depend upon the one or more applicable countries; and selecting one or more languages in which to present the one or more privacy requirements. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising calculating a metric, which indicates a level of compliance of the at least one website associated with the URL. 4. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the one or more privacy requirements include at least one of a backout statement, a notice statement, a send statement, and a link to a privacy policy. 5. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the report includes a link to the one or more privacy requirements that are unmet. 6. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the steps of claim 1 are implemented on hardware or a combination of software and hardware. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the steps of claim 1 are offered by a service provider based on one of a fee and subscription basis. 8. A computer program product comprising a computer usable storage medium having readable program code embodied in the storage medium, the computer program product includes at least one component operable to:
scan one or more websites; apply one or more rules to the one or more websites; identify whether the one or more websites comply with the one or more rules; and generate a report for the one or more websites, which includes a comparison of the applied one or more rules and compliance or noncompliance with the applied one or more rules. 9. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the one or more rules include a security level check and a POST form method check. 10. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the one or more rules include at least one of a backout statement, a notice statement, a send statement, and a link to a privacy policy. 11. The computer implemented product of claim 8, further comprising a component operable to filter the one or more websites that have already been scanned or do not include private information. 12. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the one or more rules are configured to be at least one of updated, deleted, and added. 13. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the report is generated in real time. 14. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the applying the one or more rules is performed using only server side code. 15. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the computer program product is at least one of supported, deployed, maintained, and created by a service provider. 16. The computer program product of claim 8, wherein the steps are offered by a service provider based on one of a fee and subscription basis. 17. A method for deploying an application for determining privacy compliance, comprising:
providing a computer infrastructure being operable to:
receive at least one URL;
identify an owner of the at least one URL;
check transborder conditions applicable to the at least one URL;
filter out one or more of the at least one URL;
inspect a website associated with the at least one URL for privacy compliance based on one or more privacy requirements; and
generate a report indicating whether the website associated with the at least one URL is compliant with one or more privacy requirements. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more privacy requirements comprise one or more of a secure socket layer security check, a POST form method check, an owner validation, a link to a privacy policy, a backout statement, a notice statement, and a send statement. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein one or more of the backout statement, the notice statement, and the send statement are presented to a user in a plurality of languages. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the computer infrastructure is further operable to calculate a metric, which indicates a level of compliance of the website. 21. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more privacy requirements are configured to be at least one of updated, deleted, and added. 22. The method of claim 17, wherein the filter is configured to filter the one or more URLs that have already been scanned or do not include private information. 23. The method of claim 17, wherein the computer infrastructure is at least one of supported, deployed, maintained, and created by a service provider. 24. The method of claim 17, wherein the steps of claim 17 are offered by a service provider based on one of a fee and subscription basis. 25. A system comprising:
an enterprise privacy information compliance (EPIC) tool configured to scan a website for privacy compliance based on one or more privacy standards, the EPIC tool implemented on an Internet or an intranet and requiring only server side code. | 3,600 |
13,366 | 13,366 | 15,997,815 | 3,645 | Devices and methods for aiding a large area search for objects. A searcher transmits interrogation signals of long range relative to the return range to be received by a device at the target object. The target device responds with a ping signal modified to be more easily found by means of information contained in the interrogation signal. The information may be in the nature of the received signal or data encoded and embedded. The target device may use a microprocessor to do complex operations using the information from the interrogation signal and other information. Detection of a weak ping is facilitated by such means as being beamed in the direction of the interrogation, arriving at a predictable time, or having parameters adapted to values requested by the searcher. The object is then intercepted with help of the ping or other signals from the device. | 1. A method of tracking lost objects comprising:
placing a first device with an object so that the first device will remain near the object when the object becomes lost; transmitting an interrogation signal to the device; transmitting a ping signal from the first device to a search second device wherein a parameter of the ping signal is modified as a function of at least one of the parameters of the interrogation signal to substantially increase the distance between the search second-device and first device across which the search second device can detect the ping signal from the distance between the search second device and the first device across which the search second device can detect a ping signal using the parameter without the modification; and intercepting the object after receiving the ping signal and after the object has become lost. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the object is a container and the first device is concealed inside the container. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the object is a vehicle and the first device is concealed inside the vehicle. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein:
the interception of the object is by a second vehicle by means of signals from the first device. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the ping signal is transmitted only in response to an interrogation signal which indicates that successful detection of the ping signal is probable. 6. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the interception is by means of a vehicle which is guided to approach the object by signals from the first device. 7. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the object is submerged. 8. A device for tracking a lost object comprising:
a receiver to receive an interrogation signal; a transmitter to transmit a ping signal wherein a parameter of the ping signal is modified as a function of at least one of the parameters of the interrogation signal to substantially increase the distance between the search second-device and first device across which the search second device can detect the ping signal from the distance between the search second device and the first device across which the search second device can detect a ping signal from the transmitter using the parameter without the modification; and a transmitter to transmit multiple signals to aid in the interception of the lost object after the object has been detected. 9. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the object is a container and the device is concealed inside the container. 10. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the object is a vehicle and the device is concealed inside the vehicle. 11. The device of claim 10 wherein:
the interception of the object is by a second vehicle by means of signals from the device. 12. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the ping signal is transmitted only in response to an interrogation signal which indicates that successful detection of the ping signal is probable. 13. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the interception is by means of a vehicle which is guided to approach the object by signals from the first device. 14. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the object is submerged. 15. A method of intercepting a device comprising
transmitting from a first transmitter an interrogation first signal to search for the device when the device in an unknown location in an area substantially larger than the area which can be reached by a signal from a second transmitter at the device wherein the range of the first transmitter is larger than the range of return signals transmitted from the second transmitter without using parameters set as a function of information provided by the receipt at the device of the interrogation signal; receiving a second signal from the second transmitter wherein the distance that a signal can be detected is substantially increased by a modification of a parameter of the signal as a function of a parameter of the interrogation signal; and guiding an interceptor to the device by means of a multiplicity of signals from at least one of the second transmitter and another transmitter at the device. 16. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second transmitter is concealed inside the container. 17. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second transmitter is concealed inside a vehicle. 18. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the interception of the object is by a second vehicle. 19. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second signal is transmitted only in response to an interrogation first signal which indicates that successful detection of the second signal is probable. 20. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second transmitter is submerged. | Devices and methods for aiding a large area search for objects. A searcher transmits interrogation signals of long range relative to the return range to be received by a device at the target object. The target device responds with a ping signal modified to be more easily found by means of information contained in the interrogation signal. The information may be in the nature of the received signal or data encoded and embedded. The target device may use a microprocessor to do complex operations using the information from the interrogation signal and other information. Detection of a weak ping is facilitated by such means as being beamed in the direction of the interrogation, arriving at a predictable time, or having parameters adapted to values requested by the searcher. The object is then intercepted with help of the ping or other signals from the device.1. A method of tracking lost objects comprising:
placing a first device with an object so that the first device will remain near the object when the object becomes lost; transmitting an interrogation signal to the device; transmitting a ping signal from the first device to a search second device wherein a parameter of the ping signal is modified as a function of at least one of the parameters of the interrogation signal to substantially increase the distance between the search second-device and first device across which the search second device can detect the ping signal from the distance between the search second device and the first device across which the search second device can detect a ping signal using the parameter without the modification; and intercepting the object after receiving the ping signal and after the object has become lost. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the object is a container and the first device is concealed inside the container. 3. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the object is a vehicle and the first device is concealed inside the vehicle. 4. The method of claim 3 wherein:
the interception of the object is by a second vehicle by means of signals from the first device. 5. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the ping signal is transmitted only in response to an interrogation signal which indicates that successful detection of the ping signal is probable. 6. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the interception is by means of a vehicle which is guided to approach the object by signals from the first device. 7. The method of claim 1 wherein:
the object is submerged. 8. A device for tracking a lost object comprising:
a receiver to receive an interrogation signal; a transmitter to transmit a ping signal wherein a parameter of the ping signal is modified as a function of at least one of the parameters of the interrogation signal to substantially increase the distance between the search second-device and first device across which the search second device can detect the ping signal from the distance between the search second device and the first device across which the search second device can detect a ping signal from the transmitter using the parameter without the modification; and a transmitter to transmit multiple signals to aid in the interception of the lost object after the object has been detected. 9. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the object is a container and the device is concealed inside the container. 10. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the object is a vehicle and the device is concealed inside the vehicle. 11. The device of claim 10 wherein:
the interception of the object is by a second vehicle by means of signals from the device. 12. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the ping signal is transmitted only in response to an interrogation signal which indicates that successful detection of the ping signal is probable. 13. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the interception is by means of a vehicle which is guided to approach the object by signals from the first device. 14. The device of claim 8 wherein:
the object is submerged. 15. A method of intercepting a device comprising
transmitting from a first transmitter an interrogation first signal to search for the device when the device in an unknown location in an area substantially larger than the area which can be reached by a signal from a second transmitter at the device wherein the range of the first transmitter is larger than the range of return signals transmitted from the second transmitter without using parameters set as a function of information provided by the receipt at the device of the interrogation signal; receiving a second signal from the second transmitter wherein the distance that a signal can be detected is substantially increased by a modification of a parameter of the signal as a function of a parameter of the interrogation signal; and guiding an interceptor to the device by means of a multiplicity of signals from at least one of the second transmitter and another transmitter at the device. 16. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second transmitter is concealed inside the container. 17. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second transmitter is concealed inside a vehicle. 18. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the interception of the object is by a second vehicle. 19. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second signal is transmitted only in response to an interrogation first signal which indicates that successful detection of the second signal is probable. 20. The method of claim 15 wherein:
the second transmitter is submerged. | 3,600 |
13,367 | 13,367 | 14,030,450 | 3,628 | A system and method for confirming a delivery location. A delivery agent equipped with a device, for example, a mobile device, delivers a package to a location. When the package is delivered, the delivery agent triggers a delivery-event on the device, and in response to the delivery-event the device determines an RF fingerprint at the location. The RF fingerprint is stored, and a comparison of the RF fingerprint to previously stored RF fingerprints correlated to particular locations is performed. If the RF fingerprint determined by the first device corresponds to a previously stored RF fingerprint at the correct delivery location, the current delivery location is confirmed as correct. | 1. A method for confirming a desired delivery location of an item, comprising:
collecting, at a first time, first information about one or more wireless signals detected at a first location, the first information including one or more of a signal identifier, a signal strength, or a signal frequency of the one or more wireless signals; identifying second information about one or more wireless signals detected at a second time at a desired delivery location, wherein the second time is previous to the first time; determining a number of overlapping wireless signals, wherein an overlapping wireless signal is a wireless signal that is included in both the first information and second information; determining a detected signal strength in the first information and second information for each overlapping wireless signal; determining a score representing a probability that the first location is the same as the desired delivery location, wherein the score is determined using the number of overlapping wireless signals and the corresponding determined signal strengths in the first information and second information; and confirming that the first location is the same as the desired delivery location in response to the score being above a threshold. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein collecting the first information is performed in response to a delivery-event, wherein the delivery-event comprises processing an inventory identifier of the item prior to delivery, and wherein the method further comprises sending the inventory identifier and first information from a device at the first location to a remote device. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
identifying a number of wireless signals represented in the second information that are not represented in the first information; and reducing the score, wherein an amount of the reducing is determined by the number of wireless signals represented in the second information that are not represented in the first information. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving an indication that the item was delivered correctly; associating the first information with the desired delivery location; and storing the first information for use in confirming a delivery location for a future delivery attempt. 5. A method comprising:
determining a radio frequency fingerprint at a delivery location; and comparing the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the radio frequency fingerprint comprises one or more of a wireless signal identifier, a wireless signal strength, a wireless signal frequency, an identifier of a wireless signal transmitter, or content of a pilot signal of a wireless signal. 7. The method of claim 5, further comprising transmitting a message to a local device in response to the determined radio frequency fingerprint being substantially similar to the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint, wherein the message includes an indication that the delivery location is correct. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint is associated with one or more of an address, an individual's name, latitude/longitude data, or barometric pressure data. 9. The method of claim 5, wherein the comparing of the determined radio frequency fingerprint with the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint comprises:
comparing a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint; and determining a score based on a result of the comparing. 10. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
providing an interface to a user device to record a radio frequency fingerprint at a potential delivery location; receiving a recorded radio frequency fingerprint from the user device; associating the recorded radio frequency fingerprint with the potential delivery location; and storing the recorded radio frequency fingerprint and associated potential delivery location. 11. The method of claim 5, further comprising, in response to a request for notification of the delivery location, sending a user an indication of the delivery location based at least in part on the radio frequency fingerprint. 12. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
receiving a plurality of radio frequency fingerprints from a local device; and sending a notification to the local device indicating that the local device is in a location for a delivery in response to at least one of the plurality of radio frequency fingerprints being substantially similar to a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint associated with a target delivery location for the delivery. 13. A system for confirming a delivery location, comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory device including instructions operable to be executed by the at least one processor to perform a set of actions, configuring the processor:
to determine a radio frequency fingerprint at a delivery location; and
to compare the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the radio frequency fingerprint comprises one or more of a wireless signal identifier, a wireless signal strength, a wireless signal frequency, an identifier of a wireless signal transmitter, or content of a pilot signal of a wireless signal. 15. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to transmit a message to a local device in response to the determined radio frequency fingerprint being substantially similar to the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint, wherein the message includes an indication that the delivery location is correct. 16. The system of claim 13, wherein the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint is associated with one or more of an address, an individual's name, latitude/longitude data, or barometric pressure data. 17. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor configured to compare the determined radio frequency fingerprint with the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint comprises the at least one processor configured to:
compare a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint; and determine a score based on a result of the comparing. 18. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured:
to provide an interface to a user device to record a radio frequency fingerprint at a potential delivery location; to receive a recorded radio frequency fingerprint from the user device; to associate the recorded radio frequency fingerprint with the potential delivery location; and to store the recorded radio frequency fingerprint and associated potential delivery location. 19. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to, in response to a request for notification of the delivery location, send a user an indication of the delivery location based at least in part on the radio frequency fingerprint. 20. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured:
to receive a plurality of radio frequency fingerprints from a local device; and to send a notification to the local device indicating that the local device is in a location for a delivery in response to at least one of the plurality of radio frequency fingerprints being substantially similar to a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint associated with a target delivery location for the delivery. | A system and method for confirming a delivery location. A delivery agent equipped with a device, for example, a mobile device, delivers a package to a location. When the package is delivered, the delivery agent triggers a delivery-event on the device, and in response to the delivery-event the device determines an RF fingerprint at the location. The RF fingerprint is stored, and a comparison of the RF fingerprint to previously stored RF fingerprints correlated to particular locations is performed. If the RF fingerprint determined by the first device corresponds to a previously stored RF fingerprint at the correct delivery location, the current delivery location is confirmed as correct.1. A method for confirming a desired delivery location of an item, comprising:
collecting, at a first time, first information about one or more wireless signals detected at a first location, the first information including one or more of a signal identifier, a signal strength, or a signal frequency of the one or more wireless signals; identifying second information about one or more wireless signals detected at a second time at a desired delivery location, wherein the second time is previous to the first time; determining a number of overlapping wireless signals, wherein an overlapping wireless signal is a wireless signal that is included in both the first information and second information; determining a detected signal strength in the first information and second information for each overlapping wireless signal; determining a score representing a probability that the first location is the same as the desired delivery location, wherein the score is determined using the number of overlapping wireless signals and the corresponding determined signal strengths in the first information and second information; and confirming that the first location is the same as the desired delivery location in response to the score being above a threshold. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein collecting the first information is performed in response to a delivery-event, wherein the delivery-event comprises processing an inventory identifier of the item prior to delivery, and wherein the method further comprises sending the inventory identifier and first information from a device at the first location to a remote device. 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
identifying a number of wireless signals represented in the second information that are not represented in the first information; and reducing the score, wherein an amount of the reducing is determined by the number of wireless signals represented in the second information that are not represented in the first information. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving an indication that the item was delivered correctly; associating the first information with the desired delivery location; and storing the first information for use in confirming a delivery location for a future delivery attempt. 5. A method comprising:
determining a radio frequency fingerprint at a delivery location; and comparing the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the radio frequency fingerprint comprises one or more of a wireless signal identifier, a wireless signal strength, a wireless signal frequency, an identifier of a wireless signal transmitter, or content of a pilot signal of a wireless signal. 7. The method of claim 5, further comprising transmitting a message to a local device in response to the determined radio frequency fingerprint being substantially similar to the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint, wherein the message includes an indication that the delivery location is correct. 8. The method of claim 5, wherein the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint is associated with one or more of an address, an individual's name, latitude/longitude data, or barometric pressure data. 9. The method of claim 5, wherein the comparing of the determined radio frequency fingerprint with the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint comprises:
comparing a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint; and determining a score based on a result of the comparing. 10. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
providing an interface to a user device to record a radio frequency fingerprint at a potential delivery location; receiving a recorded radio frequency fingerprint from the user device; associating the recorded radio frequency fingerprint with the potential delivery location; and storing the recorded radio frequency fingerprint and associated potential delivery location. 11. The method of claim 5, further comprising, in response to a request for notification of the delivery location, sending a user an indication of the delivery location based at least in part on the radio frequency fingerprint. 12. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
receiving a plurality of radio frequency fingerprints from a local device; and sending a notification to the local device indicating that the local device is in a location for a delivery in response to at least one of the plurality of radio frequency fingerprints being substantially similar to a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint associated with a target delivery location for the delivery. 13. A system for confirming a delivery location, comprising:
at least one processor; and a memory device including instructions operable to be executed by the at least one processor to perform a set of actions, configuring the processor:
to determine a radio frequency fingerprint at a delivery location; and
to compare the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the radio frequency fingerprint comprises one or more of a wireless signal identifier, a wireless signal strength, a wireless signal frequency, an identifier of a wireless signal transmitter, or content of a pilot signal of a wireless signal. 15. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to transmit a message to a local device in response to the determined radio frequency fingerprint being substantially similar to the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint, wherein the message includes an indication that the delivery location is correct. 16. The system of claim 13, wherein the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint is associated with one or more of an address, an individual's name, latitude/longitude data, or barometric pressure data. 17. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor configured to compare the determined radio frequency fingerprint with the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint comprises the at least one processor configured to:
compare a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the determined radio frequency fingerprint with a number of wireless signals and corresponding signal strength of the previously stored radio frequency fingerprint; and determine a score based on a result of the comparing. 18. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured:
to provide an interface to a user device to record a radio frequency fingerprint at a potential delivery location; to receive a recorded radio frequency fingerprint from the user device; to associate the recorded radio frequency fingerprint with the potential delivery location; and to store the recorded radio frequency fingerprint and associated potential delivery location. 19. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to, in response to a request for notification of the delivery location, send a user an indication of the delivery location based at least in part on the radio frequency fingerprint. 20. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least one processor is further configured:
to receive a plurality of radio frequency fingerprints from a local device; and to send a notification to the local device indicating that the local device is in a location for a delivery in response to at least one of the plurality of radio frequency fingerprints being substantially similar to a previously stored radio frequency fingerprint associated with a target delivery location for the delivery. | 3,600 |
13,368 | 13,368 | 13,330,526 | 3,647 | The present invention for a puppy apartment for use by domestic animals includes a container portion and a room divider having a kennel opening thereby allowing the animal to pass between apartment bedroom and bathroom portions. Adjustable apartment boundary regions for bathroom, bedroom, and living areas are adaptably configured to accommodate the pet in a comfortable domestic training environment. The present invention includes a method for providing positive and consistent household pet puppy training with the puppy apartment device. | 1. A puppy apartment container comprising:
a top frame, a bottom frame, and sidewall frames forming a container portion; and an apartment room divider having a dividing frame attachable to the container portion interior and being less in height and width than said container portions and having a kennel opening positioned within said dividing frame thereby allowing the animal to pass from one interior apartment portion of the container to another interior apartment portion. 2. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said apartment room divider is adjustably attachable within said container portion. 3. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising three frames having door openings for allowing the pet to pass therethrough. 4. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said container is collapsible. 5. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said frames having welded wires running perpendicular to one another and the surfaces being formed by spaced parallel end and side wire members being evenly divided into a plurality of rectangles by means of regularly spaced cross-wires thereby form wire walls. 6. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a plurality of connectors for securing together said frames. 7. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a removable bottom tray disposable within said container portion for providing support for the weight of the pet and for receiving and collecting domestic animal waste product, excrement, and urine. 8. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising removable doors with latches disposable for locking said sidewall frames in the closed position. 9. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising an absorbent pad disposable on the container bottom portion and sidewall portions for collecting and removing animal waste and urine. 10. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a material disposable within the container for providing bedding. 11. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising an enclosure defined by frames connectably attachable to said apartment for forming an apartment room or playpen and for retaining the pet therein. 12. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a lair having a bottom portion, a plurality of side portions, and a side portion having a door opening attachable to said puppy apartment container for forming a separate sleeping apartment. 13. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a lair having a bottom portion, a plurality of side portions, and a side portion having a door opening adjustably attachable to a second dog crate. 14. The puppy apartment container as in claim 11 wherein said lair is formable in multiple dimensions for accommodating pets of different size. 15. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said container is adjustably attachable to a standard wire dog crate. 16. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said container is formable in multiple dimensions for accommodating pets of different size. 17. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a handle disposed on the container top portion for lifting said container. 18. A method of training a puppy with an apartment device comprising:
providing the puppy apartment container with a top frame, a bottom frame, sidewall frames, removable doors, and a removable bottom tray; placing an absorbent leak-proof disposable pad on said removable bottom tray and said sidewall frames for collecting and removing animal waste and urine; attaching an apartment room divider with a kennel opening within said puppy apartment container for creating a bathroom portion and a bedroom portion sufficient for allowing the pet to comfortably stretch and lie down; adjusting placement of said apartment room divider as the puppy grows thereby maintaining sufficient space within said bedroom portion for the pet to comfortably stretch and lie down; and engaging and conditionally training the puppy within said apartment device for reinforcing desirable domestic household behaviors. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein engaging the puppy comprises:
allowing the puppy to sniff and to access the puppy apartment container throughout the day without fear or anxiety; feeding treats or food to the puppy only through the puppy apartment for positive conditional training of the puppy to the apartment area; exercising the puppy during daytime hours; coaxing the puppy into said apartment without harsh verbal commands; and praising the puppy with “good dog” for reinforcing desirable household behaviors. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein conditional training comprises:
locking said removable doors on the apartment device in the closed position for maintaining the puppy therein; engaging and praising the puppy in said apartment device until it eliminates waste in said bathroom portion; holding and comforting the puppy followed by replacing it to said apartment device until it eliminates in said bathroom portion; repeating verbally to the puppy “go potty” for training the puppy to eliminate “on command” in the bathroom portion. | The present invention for a puppy apartment for use by domestic animals includes a container portion and a room divider having a kennel opening thereby allowing the animal to pass between apartment bedroom and bathroom portions. Adjustable apartment boundary regions for bathroom, bedroom, and living areas are adaptably configured to accommodate the pet in a comfortable domestic training environment. The present invention includes a method for providing positive and consistent household pet puppy training with the puppy apartment device.1. A puppy apartment container comprising:
a top frame, a bottom frame, and sidewall frames forming a container portion; and an apartment room divider having a dividing frame attachable to the container portion interior and being less in height and width than said container portions and having a kennel opening positioned within said dividing frame thereby allowing the animal to pass from one interior apartment portion of the container to another interior apartment portion. 2. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said apartment room divider is adjustably attachable within said container portion. 3. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising three frames having door openings for allowing the pet to pass therethrough. 4. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said container is collapsible. 5. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said frames having welded wires running perpendicular to one another and the surfaces being formed by spaced parallel end and side wire members being evenly divided into a plurality of rectangles by means of regularly spaced cross-wires thereby form wire walls. 6. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a plurality of connectors for securing together said frames. 7. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a removable bottom tray disposable within said container portion for providing support for the weight of the pet and for receiving and collecting domestic animal waste product, excrement, and urine. 8. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising removable doors with latches disposable for locking said sidewall frames in the closed position. 9. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising an absorbent pad disposable on the container bottom portion and sidewall portions for collecting and removing animal waste and urine. 10. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a material disposable within the container for providing bedding. 11. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising an enclosure defined by frames connectably attachable to said apartment for forming an apartment room or playpen and for retaining the pet therein. 12. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a lair having a bottom portion, a plurality of side portions, and a side portion having a door opening attachable to said puppy apartment container for forming a separate sleeping apartment. 13. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a lair having a bottom portion, a plurality of side portions, and a side portion having a door opening adjustably attachable to a second dog crate. 14. The puppy apartment container as in claim 11 wherein said lair is formable in multiple dimensions for accommodating pets of different size. 15. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said container is adjustably attachable to a standard wire dog crate. 16. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 wherein said container is formable in multiple dimensions for accommodating pets of different size. 17. The puppy apartment container as in claim 1 further comprising a handle disposed on the container top portion for lifting said container. 18. A method of training a puppy with an apartment device comprising:
providing the puppy apartment container with a top frame, a bottom frame, sidewall frames, removable doors, and a removable bottom tray; placing an absorbent leak-proof disposable pad on said removable bottom tray and said sidewall frames for collecting and removing animal waste and urine; attaching an apartment room divider with a kennel opening within said puppy apartment container for creating a bathroom portion and a bedroom portion sufficient for allowing the pet to comfortably stretch and lie down; adjusting placement of said apartment room divider as the puppy grows thereby maintaining sufficient space within said bedroom portion for the pet to comfortably stretch and lie down; and engaging and conditionally training the puppy within said apartment device for reinforcing desirable domestic household behaviors. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein engaging the puppy comprises:
allowing the puppy to sniff and to access the puppy apartment container throughout the day without fear or anxiety; feeding treats or food to the puppy only through the puppy apartment for positive conditional training of the puppy to the apartment area; exercising the puppy during daytime hours; coaxing the puppy into said apartment without harsh verbal commands; and praising the puppy with “good dog” for reinforcing desirable household behaviors. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein conditional training comprises:
locking said removable doors on the apartment device in the closed position for maintaining the puppy therein; engaging and praising the puppy in said apartment device until it eliminates waste in said bathroom portion; holding and comforting the puppy followed by replacing it to said apartment device until it eliminates in said bathroom portion; repeating verbally to the puppy “go potty” for training the puppy to eliminate “on command” in the bathroom portion. | 3,600 |
13,369 | 13,369 | 13,836,233 | 3,629 | A method, non-transitory computer readable medium, and apparatus for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community are disclosed. For example, the method receives a request for customer care, selects an implicit community identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a relevance score related to a topic of the request for customer care and recommends the implicit community in response to the request for customer care. | 1. A method for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community, comprising:
receiving a request for customer care; selecting an implicit community identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a relevance score related to a topic of the request for customer care; and recommending the implicit community in response to the request for customer care. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the implicit community is identified based upon a follow activity of each one of the plurality of individual users. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the implicit community is generated using a probability graph analysis. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the selecting comprises selecting the implicit community from a plurality of implicit communities. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
identifying a topic associated with each one of the plurality of implicit communities based upon a combined community and user topic generative model. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the plurality of implicit communities are identified before the request for customer care is received. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the implicit community comprises a single user or a plurality of users. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the implicit community having a highest relevance score relative to a calculated relevance score of each one of a plurality of implicit communities is identified. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting is also based upon an influence factor, wherein the influence factor is a function of a number of interactions between a customer sending the request and each one of the plurality of individual users in the implicit community. 10. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon a plurality of instructions, the plurality of instructions including instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community, the operations comprising:
receiving a request for customer care; selecting an implicit community identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a relevance score related to a topic of the request for customer care; and recommending the implicit community in response to the request for customer care. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the implicit community is identified based upon a follow activity of each one of the plurality of individual users. 12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein the implicit community is generated using a probability graph analysis. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the selecting comprises selecting the implicit community from a plurality of implicit communities. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a topic associated with each one of the plurality of implicit communities based upon a combined community and user topic generative model. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the plurality of implicit communities are identified before the request for customer care is received. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the implicit community comprises a single user or a plurality of users. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the implicit community having a highest relevance score relative to a calculated relevance score of each one of a plurality of implicit communities is identified. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein selecting is also based upon an influence factor, wherein the influence factor is a function of a number of interactions between a customer sending the request and each one of the plurality of individual users in the implicit community. 19. A method for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community, comprising:
receiving a request for customer care from a customer, wherein the request comprises a problem topic; calculating a relevance score as a function of the problem topic for each one of a plurality of implicit communities identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a respective topic for each one of the plurality of implicit communities identified using a combined community and user topic generative model; calculating an influence factor for each one of the plurality of implicit communities, wherein the influence factor is a function of a number of interactions of the customer from each member of a respective one of the plurality of implicit communities; selecting a implicit community from the plurality of implicit communities having a highest relevance score and a highest influence factor; and recommending the implicit community to the customer. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the plurality of implicit communities are identified before the request for customer care is received based upon a follow activity of each one of the plurality of individual users. | A method, non-transitory computer readable medium, and apparatus for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community are disclosed. For example, the method receives a request for customer care, selects an implicit community identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a relevance score related to a topic of the request for customer care and recommends the implicit community in response to the request for customer care.1. A method for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community, comprising:
receiving a request for customer care; selecting an implicit community identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a relevance score related to a topic of the request for customer care; and recommending the implicit community in response to the request for customer care. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the implicit community is identified based upon a follow activity of each one of the plurality of individual users. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the implicit community is generated using a probability graph analysis. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the selecting comprises selecting the implicit community from a plurality of implicit communities. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
identifying a topic associated with each one of the plurality of implicit communities based upon a combined community and user topic generative model. 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the plurality of implicit communities are identified before the request for customer care is received. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the implicit community comprises a single user or a plurality of users. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the implicit community having a highest relevance score relative to a calculated relevance score of each one of a plurality of implicit communities is identified. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting is also based upon an influence factor, wherein the influence factor is a function of a number of interactions between a customer sending the request and each one of the plurality of individual users in the implicit community. 10. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon a plurality of instructions, the plurality of instructions including instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community, the operations comprising:
receiving a request for customer care; selecting an implicit community identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a relevance score related to a topic of the request for customer care; and recommending the implicit community in response to the request for customer care. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the implicit community is identified based upon a follow activity of each one of the plurality of individual users. 12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein the implicit community is generated using a probability graph analysis. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the selecting comprises selecting the implicit community from a plurality of implicit communities. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, further comprising:
identifying a topic associated with each one of the plurality of implicit communities based upon a combined community and user topic generative model. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the plurality of implicit communities are identified before the request for customer care is received. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the implicit community comprises a single user or a plurality of users. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the implicit community having a highest relevance score relative to a calculated relevance score of each one of a plurality of implicit communities is identified. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein selecting is also based upon an influence factor, wherein the influence factor is a function of a number of interactions between a customer sending the request and each one of the plurality of individual users in the implicit community. 19. A method for recommending a topic-cohesive and interactive implicit community, comprising:
receiving a request for customer care from a customer, wherein the request comprises a problem topic; calculating a relevance score as a function of the problem topic for each one of a plurality of implicit communities identified from a plurality of individual users of a social media website based upon a respective topic for each one of the plurality of implicit communities identified using a combined community and user topic generative model; calculating an influence factor for each one of the plurality of implicit communities, wherein the influence factor is a function of a number of interactions of the customer from each member of a respective one of the plurality of implicit communities; selecting a implicit community from the plurality of implicit communities having a highest relevance score and a highest influence factor; and recommending the implicit community to the customer. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the plurality of implicit communities are identified before the request for customer care is received based upon a follow activity of each one of the plurality of individual users. | 3,600 |
13,370 | 13,370 | 14,572,424 | 3,624 | Systems and methods for an extract, transform and load (ETL) framework are disclosed. Some implementations include retrieving, at a server, chat and call log files from a customer service database, automatically including the chat and call log files into a server database, receiving, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, where the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, processing the one or more queries to generate results satisfying the one or more queries, and providing the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server. | 1. A method comprising:
retrieving, at a server, chat and call log files from a customer service database; automatically storing the chat and call log files into a server database; receiving, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, wherein the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, wherein the chat and call log files include meta-data elements characterizing data in the chat and call log files; processing the one or more queries using the meta-data elements to generate results satisfying the one or more queries as the chat and call log files are being extracted, transformed and loaded into the server database; and providing the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the fetching and the automatically including are performed automatically at predetermined intervals of time. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the chat and the call log files include meta data elements or tags used for the processing of the one or more queries. 4. The method of claim 1, where the automatically including further comprises:
reading the retrieved chat and call log files; generating transcriptions of the retrieved chat and call log files; and automatically storing the transcriptions into the database. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
displaying a summary of a chat in a dashboard; displaying chat parameters associated with the chat as a function of time; and displaying a current status of each chat conversation of the chat, wherein the current status includes a completed or a canceled status. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
receiving a date range associated with the chat and the call log files; grouping the chat logs based on the received date range; and displaying the chat logs based on the grouping in the dashboard. 7. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
determining one or more customer service centers associated with the chat and the call log files; and providing for display the chat and the call log files in the user interface with identifications of their customer service centers. 8. A server comprising:
a communication interface configured to enable communication via a mobile network; a processor coupled with the communication interface; a storage device accessible to the processor; and an executable program in the storage device, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to: retrieve, at the server, chat and call log files from a customer service database; automatically store the chat and call log files into a server database; receive, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, wherein the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, wherein the chat and call log files include meta-data elements characterizing data in the chat and call log files; process the one or more queries using the meta-data elements to generate results satisfying the one or more queries as the chat and call log files are being extracted, transformed and loaded into the server database; and provide the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server. 9. The server of claim 8, wherein the fetching and the automatically including are performed automatically at predetermined intervals of time. 10. The server of claim 8, wherein the chat and the call log files include meta data elements or tags used for the processing of the one or more queries. 11. The server of claim 8, where the automatically including further comprises:
reading the retrieved chat and call log files; generating transcriptions of the retrieved chat and call log files; and automatically storing the transcriptions into the database. 12. The server of claim 8, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to:
display a summary of a chat in a dashboard; display chat parameters associated with the chat as a function of time; and display a current status of each chat conversation of the chat, wherein the current status includes a completed or a canceled status. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to:
receive a date range associated with the chat and the call log files; group the chat logs based on the received date range; and display the chat logs based on the grouping in the dashboard. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to:
determine one or more customer service centers associated with the chat and the call log files; and provide for display the chat and the call log files in the user interface with identifications of their customer service centers. 15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to:
retrieve, at the server, chat and call log files from a customer service database; automatically store the chat and call log files into a server database; receive, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, wherein the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, wherein the chat and call log files include meta-data elements characterizing data in the chat and call log files; process the one or more queries using the meta-data elements to generate results satisfying the one or more queries as the chat and call log files are being extracted, transformed and loaded into the server database; provide the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the fetching and the automatically including are performed automatically at predetermined intervals of time. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the chat and the call log files include meta data elements or tags used for the processing of the one or more queries. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, where the automatically including further comprises:
reading the retrieved chat and call log files; generating transcriptions of the retrieved chat and call log files; and automatically storing the transcriptions into the database. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, further comprising instructions which, when executed by the one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to:
display a summary of a chat in a dashboard; display chat parameters associated with the chat as a function of time; and display a current status of each chat conversation of the chat, wherein the current status includes a completed or a canceled status. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 19, further comprising instructions which, when executed by the one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to:
receive a date range associated with the chat and the call log files; group the chat logs based on the received date range; and display the chat logs based on the grouping in the dashboard. | Systems and methods for an extract, transform and load (ETL) framework are disclosed. Some implementations include retrieving, at a server, chat and call log files from a customer service database, automatically including the chat and call log files into a server database, receiving, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, where the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, processing the one or more queries to generate results satisfying the one or more queries, and providing the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server.1. A method comprising:
retrieving, at a server, chat and call log files from a customer service database; automatically storing the chat and call log files into a server database; receiving, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, wherein the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, wherein the chat and call log files include meta-data elements characterizing data in the chat and call log files; processing the one or more queries using the meta-data elements to generate results satisfying the one or more queries as the chat and call log files are being extracted, transformed and loaded into the server database; and providing the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the fetching and the automatically including are performed automatically at predetermined intervals of time. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the chat and the call log files include meta data elements or tags used for the processing of the one or more queries. 4. The method of claim 1, where the automatically including further comprises:
reading the retrieved chat and call log files; generating transcriptions of the retrieved chat and call log files; and automatically storing the transcriptions into the database. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
displaying a summary of a chat in a dashboard; displaying chat parameters associated with the chat as a function of time; and displaying a current status of each chat conversation of the chat, wherein the current status includes a completed or a canceled status. 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
receiving a date range associated with the chat and the call log files; grouping the chat logs based on the received date range; and displaying the chat logs based on the grouping in the dashboard. 7. The method of claim 5, further comprising:
determining one or more customer service centers associated with the chat and the call log files; and providing for display the chat and the call log files in the user interface with identifications of their customer service centers. 8. A server comprising:
a communication interface configured to enable communication via a mobile network; a processor coupled with the communication interface; a storage device accessible to the processor; and an executable program in the storage device, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to: retrieve, at the server, chat and call log files from a customer service database; automatically store the chat and call log files into a server database; receive, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, wherein the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, wherein the chat and call log files include meta-data elements characterizing data in the chat and call log files; process the one or more queries using the meta-data elements to generate results satisfying the one or more queries as the chat and call log files are being extracted, transformed and loaded into the server database; and provide the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server. 9. The server of claim 8, wherein the fetching and the automatically including are performed automatically at predetermined intervals of time. 10. The server of claim 8, wherein the chat and the call log files include meta data elements or tags used for the processing of the one or more queries. 11. The server of claim 8, where the automatically including further comprises:
reading the retrieved chat and call log files; generating transcriptions of the retrieved chat and call log files; and automatically storing the transcriptions into the database. 12. The server of claim 8, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to:
display a summary of a chat in a dashboard; display chat parameters associated with the chat as a function of time; and display a current status of each chat conversation of the chat, wherein the current status includes a completed or a canceled status. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to:
receive a date range associated with the chat and the call log files; group the chat logs based on the received date range; and display the chat logs based on the grouping in the dashboard. 14. The method of claim 12, wherein execution of the program by the processor configures the server to perform functions, including functions to:
determine one or more customer service centers associated with the chat and the call log files; and provide for display the chat and the call log files in the user interface with identifications of their customer service centers. 15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to:
retrieve, at the server, chat and call log files from a customer service database; automatically store the chat and call log files into a server database; receive, one or more queries related to the chat and call log files in the server database, wherein the queries include one or more of phrase queries or wildcard queries, wherein the chat and call log files include meta-data elements characterizing data in the chat and call log files; process the one or more queries using the meta-data elements to generate results satisfying the one or more queries as the chat and call log files are being extracted, transformed and loaded into the server database; provide the results of the queries to a client computing device for display, wherein the retrieving, the automatically including, the receiving and the processing are performed in parallel at the server. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the fetching and the automatically including are performed automatically at predetermined intervals of time. 17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the chat and the call log files include meta data elements or tags used for the processing of the one or more queries. 18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, where the automatically including further comprises:
reading the retrieved chat and call log files; generating transcriptions of the retrieved chat and call log files; and automatically storing the transcriptions into the database. 19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, further comprising instructions which, when executed by the one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to:
display a summary of a chat in a dashboard; display chat parameters associated with the chat as a function of time; and display a current status of each chat conversation of the chat, wherein the current status includes a completed or a canceled status. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 19, further comprising instructions which, when executed by the one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to:
receive a date range associated with the chat and the call log files; group the chat logs based on the received date range; and display the chat logs based on the grouping in the dashboard. | 3,600 |
13,371 | 13,371 | 14,547,706 | 3,626 | A system and method for automating analytic processes to improve health outcomes and manage healthcare costs. Data associated with healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs) is acquired. Findings, predictions, and recommendations for tracking services provided by the MCOs are identified with analytic flows that are based on the data. Relations between the services provided by the MCOs and the healthcare encounters are identified. Utilization statistics are extracted from the data with the analytic processes. Information from the utilization statistics relevant to the healthcare encounters is output. | 1. A method, comprising:
acquiring data associated with healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs); identifying analytic processes and flows for tracking services provided by said MCOs, based on said data; identifying relations between said services provided by said MCOs and said healthcare encounters; extracting utilization statistics from said data with said analytic processes and flows; and outputting information from said utilization statistics relevant to said healthcare encounters. 2. The method according to claim 1, said data associated with said healthcare encounters comprising fee-for-service claims, capitation claims, member data, provider data, clinical data, lab data, disease data, and risk scores. 3. The method according to claim 1, said data associated with said healthcare encounters comprising data associated with encounters provided by healthcare providers. 4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
analyzing said data associated with said healthcare encounters, each analytic process of said analytic processes addressing a specific area of concern in healthcare. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
automatically recommending actions to improve health outcomes and reduce costs based on said information output from said utilization statistics. 6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
using said information from said analytics processes as input to subsequent analytic processes. 7. A method, comprising:
acquiring medical data associated with patients' healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs), said medical data comprising relations between services provided by said MCOs and said healthcare encounters and patient demographics; presenting, on a graphic user interface (GUI), analytical process suggestions based on predefined categories of concern for said MCOs; enabling selection, on said GUI, of analytic processes and flows from an existing library of analytical processes for tracking said services provided by said MCOs, said analytic processes being based on clinical expertise; extracting utilization statistics from said medical data with said analytic processes and flows selected from said existing library of analytical processes; analyzing said utilization statistics and determining information relevant to said healthcare encounters, based on said medical data; and outputting, on said GUI, analysis or recommendations based on said information. 8. The method according to claim 7, said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters comprising fee-for-service claims, capitation claims, member data, provider data, clinical data, lab data, disease data, and risk scores. 9. The method according to claim 7, said medical data associated with said patient's healthcare encounters comprising medical data associated with said patient's encounters provided by healthcare providers. 10. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
analyzing said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said existing library of analytical processes addressing a specific area of concern in healthcare. 11. The method according to claim 7, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said existing library of analytical processes determining a set of relevant findings, predictions, and recommendations based on said medical data. 12. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
automatically recommending actions to improve health outcomes and reduce costs based on said analysis or recommendations. 13. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
using said information from said analytic processes as input to subsequent analytic processes selected from said existing library of analytical processes. 14. A method comprising:
providing a list of analytical processes on a user interface, said analytical processes comprising methodologies of processing data previously stored in a library on a computerized storage device operatively connected to said user interface; receiving a user selection of a user selected analytical process of said analytical processes through said user interface; displaying details of said user selected analytical process and available statistical findings producible by said user selected analytical process on said user interface; receiving a user selection of a user selected statistical findings of said analytical processes through said user interface; automatically determining a second analytical process of said analytical processes that should be used with said user selected analytical process of said analytical processes based on said user selected statistical findings using a computerized device operatively connected to said user interface; displaying said second analytical process on said user interface as a suggestion for being combined with said user selected analytical process; automatically combining said user selected analytical process with said second analytical process into an analytical flow using said computerized device based on said user accepting said suggestion through said user interface; and outputting said analytical flow from said computerized device. 15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising repeatedly determining an additional analytical process of said analytical processes that should be used with said analytical flow;
displaying said additional analytical process on said user interface as a suggestion for being combined with said analytical flow; automatically combining said user selected analytical process with said analytical flow using said computerized device based on said user accepting said suggestion of said additional analytical process through said user interface; and outputting a revised analytical flow from said computerized device. 16. The method according to claim 14, further comprising automatically determining a different second analytical process of said analytical processes based on said user rejecting said suggestion through said user interface. 17. The method according to claim 14, further comprising:
acquiring medical data associated with patients' healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs), said medical data comprising relations between services provided by said MCOs and said healthcare encounters and patient demographics, said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters comprising fee-for-service claims, capitation claims, member data, provider data, clinical data, lab data, disease data, and risk scores, said suggestion of analytical processes being based on predefined categories of concern for said MCOs. 18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:
extracting utilization statistics from said medical data with said analytic processes selected from said library; analyzing said utilization statistics and determining information relevant to said healthcare encounters, based on said medical data; and outputting, on said user interface, analysis or recommendations based on said information. 19. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:
analyzing said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said library addressing a specific area of concern in healthcare. 20. The method according to claim 17, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said library determining a set of relevant findings, predictions, and recommendations based on said medical data. | A system and method for automating analytic processes to improve health outcomes and manage healthcare costs. Data associated with healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs) is acquired. Findings, predictions, and recommendations for tracking services provided by the MCOs are identified with analytic flows that are based on the data. Relations between the services provided by the MCOs and the healthcare encounters are identified. Utilization statistics are extracted from the data with the analytic processes. Information from the utilization statistics relevant to the healthcare encounters is output.1. A method, comprising:
acquiring data associated with healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs); identifying analytic processes and flows for tracking services provided by said MCOs, based on said data; identifying relations between said services provided by said MCOs and said healthcare encounters; extracting utilization statistics from said data with said analytic processes and flows; and outputting information from said utilization statistics relevant to said healthcare encounters. 2. The method according to claim 1, said data associated with said healthcare encounters comprising fee-for-service claims, capitation claims, member data, provider data, clinical data, lab data, disease data, and risk scores. 3. The method according to claim 1, said data associated with said healthcare encounters comprising data associated with encounters provided by healthcare providers. 4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
analyzing said data associated with said healthcare encounters, each analytic process of said analytic processes addressing a specific area of concern in healthcare. 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
automatically recommending actions to improve health outcomes and reduce costs based on said information output from said utilization statistics. 6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:
using said information from said analytics processes as input to subsequent analytic processes. 7. A method, comprising:
acquiring medical data associated with patients' healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs), said medical data comprising relations between services provided by said MCOs and said healthcare encounters and patient demographics; presenting, on a graphic user interface (GUI), analytical process suggestions based on predefined categories of concern for said MCOs; enabling selection, on said GUI, of analytic processes and flows from an existing library of analytical processes for tracking said services provided by said MCOs, said analytic processes being based on clinical expertise; extracting utilization statistics from said medical data with said analytic processes and flows selected from said existing library of analytical processes; analyzing said utilization statistics and determining information relevant to said healthcare encounters, based on said medical data; and outputting, on said GUI, analysis or recommendations based on said information. 8. The method according to claim 7, said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters comprising fee-for-service claims, capitation claims, member data, provider data, clinical data, lab data, disease data, and risk scores. 9. The method according to claim 7, said medical data associated with said patient's healthcare encounters comprising medical data associated with said patient's encounters provided by healthcare providers. 10. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
analyzing said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said existing library of analytical processes addressing a specific area of concern in healthcare. 11. The method according to claim 7, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said existing library of analytical processes determining a set of relevant findings, predictions, and recommendations based on said medical data. 12. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
automatically recommending actions to improve health outcomes and reduce costs based on said analysis or recommendations. 13. The method according to claim 7, further comprising:
using said information from said analytic processes as input to subsequent analytic processes selected from said existing library of analytical processes. 14. A method comprising:
providing a list of analytical processes on a user interface, said analytical processes comprising methodologies of processing data previously stored in a library on a computerized storage device operatively connected to said user interface; receiving a user selection of a user selected analytical process of said analytical processes through said user interface; displaying details of said user selected analytical process and available statistical findings producible by said user selected analytical process on said user interface; receiving a user selection of a user selected statistical findings of said analytical processes through said user interface; automatically determining a second analytical process of said analytical processes that should be used with said user selected analytical process of said analytical processes based on said user selected statistical findings using a computerized device operatively connected to said user interface; displaying said second analytical process on said user interface as a suggestion for being combined with said user selected analytical process; automatically combining said user selected analytical process with said second analytical process into an analytical flow using said computerized device based on said user accepting said suggestion through said user interface; and outputting said analytical flow from said computerized device. 15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising repeatedly determining an additional analytical process of said analytical processes that should be used with said analytical flow;
displaying said additional analytical process on said user interface as a suggestion for being combined with said analytical flow; automatically combining said user selected analytical process with said analytical flow using said computerized device based on said user accepting said suggestion of said additional analytical process through said user interface; and outputting a revised analytical flow from said computerized device. 16. The method according to claim 14, further comprising automatically determining a different second analytical process of said analytical processes based on said user rejecting said suggestion through said user interface. 17. The method according to claim 14, further comprising:
acquiring medical data associated with patients' healthcare encounters with managed care organizations (MCOs), said medical data comprising relations between services provided by said MCOs and said healthcare encounters and patient demographics, said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters comprising fee-for-service claims, capitation claims, member data, provider data, clinical data, lab data, disease data, and risk scores, said suggestion of analytical processes being based on predefined categories of concern for said MCOs. 18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:
extracting utilization statistics from said medical data with said analytic processes selected from said library; analyzing said utilization statistics and determining information relevant to said healthcare encounters, based on said medical data; and outputting, on said user interface, analysis or recommendations based on said information. 19. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:
analyzing said medical data associated with said patients' healthcare encounters, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said library addressing a specific area of concern in healthcare. 20. The method according to claim 17, each analytic process of said analytic processes selected from said library determining a set of relevant findings, predictions, and recommendations based on said medical data. | 3,600 |
13,372 | 13,372 | 14,478,700 | 3,616 | The present invention relates to all terrain vehicles having at least a pair of laterally spaced apart seating surfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to trail compliant side-by-side all terrain vehicles. | 1-21. (canceled) 22. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension comprising at least one right front control arm and at least one left front control arm, the control arms being coupled to the frame, and a front torsion bar coupled between the front control arms; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension comprising at least one right rear control arm and at least one left rear control arm, the control arms being coupled to the frame, and a rear torsion bar coupled between the rear control arms; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a seating area supported by the frame, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; an engine supported by the frame, the engine positioned rearward of the seating area, and each seat bottom has a seating surface with a low point of the seating surface being lower than a top of the engine; a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission; a front axle assembly supported by the front frame portion and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; a rear axle assembly supported by the rear frame portion and drivingly coupling the transmission to the rear wheels; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 23. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising front tires mounted to the front wheels. 24. The vehicle of claim 23, wherein outer surfaces of the front tires define the outermost points. 25. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the vehicle has a front panel having front fenders, and outer surfaces of the front fenders define the outermost points. 26. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 27. The vehicle of claim 26, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 28. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 29. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the engine, transmission and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly define a modular engine assembly capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit. 30. The vehicle of claim 29, wherein the modular engine assembly is mounted to the frame by at least first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly. 31. The vehicle of claim 30, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly has a rear drive axis, and the first mounting assembly is coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly rearward of the rear drive axis. 32. The vehicle of claim 29, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly is a differential. 33. The vehicle of claim 30, wherein the first mounting assembly includes at least one bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly and a mounting plate positioned between the bracket and frame. 34. The vehicle of claim 30, wherein the second mounting assembly is coupled to the engine. 35. The vehicle of claim 30, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame. 36. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising an engine cover supported by the upper rear frame portion and extending over one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area, the engine cover comprising a floor and upstanding sidewalls. 37. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension coupled to the frame; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension coupled to the frame; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a seating area supported by the frame, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; an engine supported by the frame, the engine positioned rearward of the seating area, and each seat bottom has a seating surface with a low point of the seating surface being lower than a top of the engine, the spaced-apart seating surfaces including a driver seating surface and a passenger seating surface; a fuel tank being positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms; a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission; a front axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; a rear axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the rear wheels; a front end comprising a front body panel having outer fenders, and a hood; a cab intermediate the front and rear wheels, the seating area being positioned within the cab; a rear end comprising an engine cover; a protective cage positioned over the cab including front and rear frame tubes extending upwardly from the cab to form the protective cage; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 38. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a front console and an adjustable steering wheel. 39. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a transmission shift lever intermediate the seat bottoms. 40. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a cover, including one or more of a roof, a windshield and doors. 41. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the cab defines an operator and passenger entry. 42. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the cab has side panels located along a front margin of the operator and passenger entry, a lower edge of the operator and passenger entry, and the rear edge of the operator and passenger entry. 43. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the engine cover is comprised of a floor and upstanding sidewalls, the engine cover being coupled to the frame and extending over the engine rearward of the seating area. 44. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 45. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 46. The vehicle of claim 45, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 47. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension comprising at least one right front control arm and one left front control arm, the front control arms being coupled to the frame, and a front torsion bar coupled between the front control arms; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension comprising at least one right rear control arm and one left rear control arm, the rear control arms being coupled to the frame, and a rear torsion bar coupled between the rear control arms; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a seating area supported by the frame and comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; a fuel tank being positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms; a rear axle assembly drivingly coupling the transmission to the rear wheels; a modular engine assembly supported by the frame, the modular engine assembly being comprised of an engine, a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly, the portion of the rear axle assembly having a rear drive axis, wherein the modular engine assembly is capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit; the continuously variable transmission comprising:
a clutch mechanism adapted to transmit power from the engine to the transmission;
a clutch housing covering the clutch mechanism, and
a clutch cooling intake which communicates with the clutch housing to cool the clutch mechanism;
the modular engine assembly being positioned rearward of the seating area and being mounted to the frame by first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly rearward of the rear drive axis and wherein the second mounting assembly is coupled to the engine; a front axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; a front end comprising an outer front panel having outer fenders and a hood; a cab including a steering wheel and a transmission shift lever, the seating area being positioned within the cab; a rear end including an engine cover; a protective cage positioned over the cab including front and rear frame tubes extending upwardly from the cab to form the protective cage; and wherein outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 48. The vehicle of claim 47, wherein the first mounting assembly includes at least one first bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly, and a first mounting plate positioned between the first bracket and frame; and the second mounting assembly includes at least one second bracket coupled to the engine, and a second mounting plate positioned between the second bracket and frame. 49. The vehicle of claim 27, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame. 50. The vehicle of claim 27, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches and wherein the vehicle further comprises a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 51. The vehicle of claim 47, an inlet to the clutch cooling intake is at a position higher than the transmission. | The present invention relates to all terrain vehicles having at least a pair of laterally spaced apart seating surfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to trail compliant side-by-side all terrain vehicles.1-21. (canceled) 22. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension comprising at least one right front control arm and at least one left front control arm, the control arms being coupled to the frame, and a front torsion bar coupled between the front control arms; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension comprising at least one right rear control arm and at least one left rear control arm, the control arms being coupled to the frame, and a rear torsion bar coupled between the rear control arms; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a seating area supported by the frame, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; an engine supported by the frame, the engine positioned rearward of the seating area, and each seat bottom has a seating surface with a low point of the seating surface being lower than a top of the engine; a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission; a front axle assembly supported by the front frame portion and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; a rear axle assembly supported by the rear frame portion and drivingly coupling the transmission to the rear wheels; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 23. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising front tires mounted to the front wheels. 24. The vehicle of claim 23, wherein outer surfaces of the front tires define the outermost points. 25. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the vehicle has a front panel having front fenders, and outer surfaces of the front fenders define the outermost points. 26. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 27. The vehicle of claim 26, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 28. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 29. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the engine, transmission and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly define a modular engine assembly capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit. 30. The vehicle of claim 29, wherein the modular engine assembly is mounted to the frame by at least first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly. 31. The vehicle of claim 30, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly has a rear drive axis, and the first mounting assembly is coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly rearward of the rear drive axis. 32. The vehicle of claim 29, wherein the portion of the rear axle assembly is a differential. 33. The vehicle of claim 30, wherein the first mounting assembly includes at least one bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly and a mounting plate positioned between the bracket and frame. 34. The vehicle of claim 30, wherein the second mounting assembly is coupled to the engine. 35. The vehicle of claim 30, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame. 36. The vehicle of claim 22, further comprising an engine cover supported by the upper rear frame portion and extending over one of the engine and transmission rearward of the seating area, the engine cover comprising a floor and upstanding sidewalls. 37. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension coupled to the frame; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension coupled to the frame; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a seating area supported by the frame, comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; an engine supported by the frame, the engine positioned rearward of the seating area, and each seat bottom has a seating surface with a low point of the seating surface being lower than a top of the engine, the spaced-apart seating surfaces including a driver seating surface and a passenger seating surface; a fuel tank being positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms; a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission; a front axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; a rear axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the rear wheels; a front end comprising a front body panel having outer fenders, and a hood; a cab intermediate the front and rear wheels, the seating area being positioned within the cab; a rear end comprising an engine cover; a protective cage positioned over the cab including front and rear frame tubes extending upwardly from the cab to form the protective cage; and outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 38. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a front console and an adjustable steering wheel. 39. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a transmission shift lever intermediate the seat bottoms. 40. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a cover, including one or more of a roof, a windshield and doors. 41. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the cab defines an operator and passenger entry. 42. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the cab has side panels located along a front margin of the operator and passenger entry, a lower edge of the operator and passenger entry, and the rear edge of the operator and passenger entry. 43. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the engine cover is comprised of a floor and upstanding sidewalls, the engine cover being coupled to the frame and extending over the engine rearward of the seating area. 44. The vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 45. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches. 46. The vehicle of claim 45, further comprising a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 47. An all-terrain vehicle, comprising:
a frame; a front suspension comprising at least one right front control arm and one left front control arm, the front control arms being coupled to the frame, and a front torsion bar coupled between the front control arms; at least two front wheels coupled to the front suspension; a rear suspension comprising at least one right rear control arm and one left rear control arm, the rear control arms being coupled to the frame, and a rear torsion bar coupled between the rear control arms; at least two rear wheels coupled to the rear suspension; a seating area supported by the frame and comprising side by side seats each having a seat back and a seat bottom; a fuel tank being positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms; a rear axle assembly drivingly coupling the transmission to the rear wheels; a modular engine assembly supported by the frame, the modular engine assembly being comprised of an engine, a transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission and at least a portion of the rear axle assembly, the portion of the rear axle assembly having a rear drive axis, wherein the modular engine assembly is capable of being mounted to or dismounted from the frame as a unit; the continuously variable transmission comprising:
a clutch mechanism adapted to transmit power from the engine to the transmission;
a clutch housing covering the clutch mechanism, and
a clutch cooling intake which communicates with the clutch housing to cool the clutch mechanism;
the modular engine assembly being positioned rearward of the seating area and being mounted to the frame by first and second mounting assemblies, where the first mounting assembly is coupled to the rear axle assembly rearward of the rear drive axis and wherein the second mounting assembly is coupled to the engine; a front axle assembly supported by the frame and drivingly coupling the transmission to the front wheels; a front end comprising an outer front panel having outer fenders and a hood; a cab including a steering wheel and a transmission shift lever, the seating area being positioned within the cab; a rear end including an engine cover; a protective cage positioned over the cab including front and rear frame tubes extending upwardly from the cab to form the protective cage; and wherein outermost points of the vehicle in a width-wise direction define a width of less than 54 inches. 48. The vehicle of claim 47, wherein the first mounting assembly includes at least one first bracket coupled to the portion of the rear axle assembly, and a first mounting plate positioned between the first bracket and frame; and the second mounting assembly includes at least one second bracket coupled to the engine, and a second mounting plate positioned between the second bracket and frame. 49. The vehicle of claim 27, further comprising a third mounting assembly coupling the modular engine assembly to the frame. 50. The vehicle of claim 27, wherein the vehicle width is approximately 50 inches and wherein the vehicle further comprises a battery positioned underneath one of the seat bottoms. 51. The vehicle of claim 47, an inlet to the clutch cooling intake is at a position higher than the transmission. | 3,600 |
13,373 | 13,373 | 13,687,068 | 3,681 | Methods, systems, and products provide contextual information for communications. A call, for example, is processed from an origination address to a destination address. A query is made for a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call. The brand of device is announced during the call. | 1. A method, comprising:
processing a call from an origination address to a destination address; retrieving from memory a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call; and announcing the brand of device during the call. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising querying the memory for the brand of device. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising retrieving a profile associated with the destination address. 4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising querying the profile for the brand of device. 5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising determining the profile lacks the brand of device. 6. The method according to claim 5, further comprising determining an alternate communications path when the profile lacks the brand of device. 7. The method according to claim 5, further comprising:
retrieving advertising associated with the brand of device; and playing the advertising during the call. 8. A system, comprising:
a processor; and memory for storing code that when executed causes the processor to perform operations, the operations comprising: processing a call from an origination address to a destination address; retrieving a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call; and announcing the brand of device during the call. 9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the code further causes the processor to query for the brand of device. 10. The system according to claim 8, wherein the code further causes the processor to retrieve a profile associated with the destination address. 11. The system according to claim 8, wherein the code further causes the processor to query the profile for the brand of device. 12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the code further causes the processor to determine the profile lacks the brand of device. 13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the code further causes the processor to determine an alternate communications path when the profile lacks the brand of device. 14. The system according to claim 12, wherein the code further causes the processor to:
retrieve advertising associated with the brand of device; and play the advertising during the call. 15. A computer readable memory storing instructions that when executed cause a processor to perform operations, the operations comprising:
processing a call from an origination address to a destination address; retrieving a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call; and announcing the brand of device during the call. 16. The computer readable memory according to claim 15, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to query for the brand of device. 17. The computer readable memory according to claim 15, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to retrieve a profile associated with the destination address. 18. The computer readable memory according to claim 17, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to query the profile for the brand of device. 19. The computer readable memory according to claim 18, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to determine the profile lacks the brand of device. 20. The computer readable memory according to claim 19, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to:
retrieve advertising associated with the brand of device; and play the advertising during the call. | Methods, systems, and products provide contextual information for communications. A call, for example, is processed from an origination address to a destination address. A query is made for a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call. The brand of device is announced during the call.1. A method, comprising:
processing a call from an origination address to a destination address; retrieving from memory a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call; and announcing the brand of device during the call. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising querying the memory for the brand of device. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising retrieving a profile associated with the destination address. 4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising querying the profile for the brand of device. 5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising determining the profile lacks the brand of device. 6. The method according to claim 5, further comprising determining an alternate communications path when the profile lacks the brand of device. 7. The method according to claim 5, further comprising:
retrieving advertising associated with the brand of device; and playing the advertising during the call. 8. A system, comprising:
a processor; and memory for storing code that when executed causes the processor to perform operations, the operations comprising: processing a call from an origination address to a destination address; retrieving a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call; and announcing the brand of device during the call. 9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the code further causes the processor to query for the brand of device. 10. The system according to claim 8, wherein the code further causes the processor to retrieve a profile associated with the destination address. 11. The system according to claim 8, wherein the code further causes the processor to query the profile for the brand of device. 12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the code further causes the processor to determine the profile lacks the brand of device. 13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the code further causes the processor to determine an alternate communications path when the profile lacks the brand of device. 14. The system according to claim 12, wherein the code further causes the processor to:
retrieve advertising associated with the brand of device; and play the advertising during the call. 15. A computer readable memory storing instructions that when executed cause a processor to perform operations, the operations comprising:
processing a call from an origination address to a destination address; retrieving a brand of device associated with the origination address making the call; and announcing the brand of device during the call. 16. The computer readable memory according to claim 15, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to query for the brand of device. 17. The computer readable memory according to claim 15, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to retrieve a profile associated with the destination address. 18. The computer readable memory according to claim 17, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to query the profile for the brand of device. 19. The computer readable memory according to claim 18, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to determine the profile lacks the brand of device. 20. The computer readable memory according to claim 19, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to:
retrieve advertising associated with the brand of device; and play the advertising during the call. | 3,600 |
13,374 | 13,374 | 13,676,379 | 3,697 | Disclosed is a method for controlling a light output signal emitted by a set of light sources comprising at least one light source, wherein said light output signal includes a modulation signal which carries individual information, such that the method includes recurrently:
remotely detecting the light output signal of said set of light sources; determining at least one quality measure of said remote detection of the light output signal; and adjusting the modulation signal on basis of said at least one quality measure. | 1. A method for controlling a light output signal emitted by a set of light sources comprising at least one light source, wherein said light output signal comprises a modulation signal which carries information related to the set of light sources, the method comprising recurrently:
remotely detecting the light output signal of said set of light sources; determining at least one quality measure of said remotely detected light output signal; and adjusting the modulation signal on basis of said at least one quality measure. 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of determining at least one quality measure comprises:
estimating at least one performance parameter for the transmission link extending between the set of light sources and the position where the remote detection takes place; and using said at least one performance parameter for said determining at least one quality measure. 3. A method according to claim 2, wherein said at least one quality measure comprise at least one of signal-to-noise ratio, signal amplitude of the detected light output signal, and noise level of the detected light output signal. 4. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of adjusting the modulation signal comprises adjusting at least one of modulation depth, frequency, and intensity of the modulation signal. 5. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of remotely detecting the light output signal comprises extracting said information from the light output signal; and wherein said step of determining at least one quality measure comprises determining a quality measure of said extracted information. 6. A method according to claim 5, wherein said information is represented as at least one bit within each time period of the light output signal. | Disclosed is a method for controlling a light output signal emitted by a set of light sources comprising at least one light source, wherein said light output signal includes a modulation signal which carries individual information, such that the method includes recurrently:
remotely detecting the light output signal of said set of light sources; determining at least one quality measure of said remote detection of the light output signal; and adjusting the modulation signal on basis of said at least one quality measure.1. A method for controlling a light output signal emitted by a set of light sources comprising at least one light source, wherein said light output signal comprises a modulation signal which carries information related to the set of light sources, the method comprising recurrently:
remotely detecting the light output signal of said set of light sources; determining at least one quality measure of said remotely detected light output signal; and adjusting the modulation signal on basis of said at least one quality measure. 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of determining at least one quality measure comprises:
estimating at least one performance parameter for the transmission link extending between the set of light sources and the position where the remote detection takes place; and using said at least one performance parameter for said determining at least one quality measure. 3. A method according to claim 2, wherein said at least one quality measure comprise at least one of signal-to-noise ratio, signal amplitude of the detected light output signal, and noise level of the detected light output signal. 4. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of adjusting the modulation signal comprises adjusting at least one of modulation depth, frequency, and intensity of the modulation signal. 5. A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of remotely detecting the light output signal comprises extracting said information from the light output signal; and wherein said step of determining at least one quality measure comprises determining a quality measure of said extracted information. 6. A method according to claim 5, wherein said information is represented as at least one bit within each time period of the light output signal. | 3,600 |
13,375 | 13,375 | 14,208,042 | 3,624 | A method includes identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles based on input from a user. The method also includes receiving from the user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle. The method further includes identifying a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. The one or more parameters could include a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price. Different pricing formulas can be associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available. A first of the pricing formulas can be used to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle and, after a specified amount of time has elapsed, a second of the pricing formulas can be used to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle. | 1. A method comprising:
identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles based on input from a user; receiving from the user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle; and identifying a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein:
the one or more parameters comprise a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price; and different pricing formulas are associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein identifying the recommended price comprises:
using a first of the pricing formulas to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle; and after a specified amount of time has elapsed, using a second of the pricing formulas to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the pricing formulas define a continuous pricing strategy that accounts for constant vehicle aging. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying the competitive set of other vehicles comprises:
receiving from the user one or more filtering criteria; and identifying other vehicles that satisfy the one or more filtering criteria for inclusion in the competitive set. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
creating a modified competitive set by at least one of:
adding one or more additional vehicles to the competitive set as the one or more additional vehicles enter at least one marketplace; and
removing one or more expired vehicles from the competitive set as the one or more expired vehicles leave the at least one marketplace; and
updating the recommended price for the specified vehicle using the modified competitive set. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein:
receiving the one or more parameters comprises receiving a selection or definition of at least one pricing formula to be used to identify the recommended price; and each pricing formula comprises:
a time/age parameter that defines a period of time for which the formula is to be used to identify the recommended price;
a pricing guide parameter that indicates which prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be used to identify the recommended price;
a modifier parameter that indicates how the prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be modified to identify the recommended price; and
a profit protection parameter that identifies a price floor or minimum profit to be used to identify the recommended price. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein:
the pricing guide parameter comprises one of: a median price of the other vehicles in the competitive set and an initial listing price of the other vehicles in the competitive set; and the modifier parameter comprises one of: a specified amount and a specified percentage. 9. A system comprising:
at least one memory configured to store information identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles; and at least one processing device configured to:
receive from a user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle; and
identify a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein:
the one or more parameters comprise a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price; and different pricing formulas are associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the at least one processing device is configured to:
use a first of the pricing formulas to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle; and after a specified amount of time has elapsed, use a second of the pricing formulas to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the pricing formulas define a continuous pricing strategy that accounts for constant vehicle aging. 13. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one processing device is configured to:
receive from the user one or more filtering criteria; and identify other vehicles that satisfy the one or more filtering criteria for inclusion in the competitive set. 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one processing device is further configured to:
create a modified competitive set by at least one of:
adding one or more additional vehicles to the competitive set as the one or more additional vehicles enter at least one marketplace; and
removing one or more expired vehicles from the competitive set as the one or more expired vehicles leave the at least one marketplace; and
update the recommended price for the specified vehicle using the modified competitive set. 15. The system of claim 9, wherein:
the at least one processing device is further configured to receive a selection or definition of at least one pricing formula to be used to identify the recommended price; and each pricing formula comprises:
a time/age parameter that defines a period of time for which the formula is to be used to identify the recommended price;
a pricing guide parameter that indicates which prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be used to identify the recommended price;
a modifier parameter that indicates how the prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be modified to identify the recommended price; and
a profit protection parameter that identifies a price floor or minimum profit to be used to identify the recommended price. 16. A non-transitory computer readable medium embodying a computer program, the computer program comprising computer readable program code for:
identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles based on input from a user; receiving from the user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle; and identifying a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. 17. The computer readable medium of claim 16, wherein:
the one or more parameters comprise a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price; different pricing formulas are associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available; and the pricing formulas define a continuous pricing strategy that accounts for constant vehicle aging. 18. The computer readable medium of claim 17, wherein the computer readable program code for identifying the recommended price comprises computer readable program code for:
using a first of the pricing formulas to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle; and after a specified amount of time has elapsed, using a second of the pricing formulas to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle. 19. The computer readable medium of claim 16, further comprising computer readable program code for:
creating a modified competitive set by at least one of:
adding one or more additional vehicles to the competitive set as the one or more additional vehicles enter at least one marketplace; and
removing one or more expired vehicles from the competitive set as the one or more expired vehicles leave the at least one marketplace; and
updating the recommended price for the specified vehicle using the modified competitive set. 20. The computer readable medium of claim 16, wherein:
the computer readable program code for receiving the one or more parameters comprises computer readable program code for receiving a selection or definition of at least one pricing formula to be used to identify the recommended price; and each pricing formula comprises:
a time/age parameter that defines a period of time for which the formula is to be used to identify the recommended price;
a pricing guide parameter that indicates which prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be used to identify the recommended price;
a modifier parameter that indicates how the prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be modified to identify the recommended price; and
a profit protection parameter that identifies a price floor or minimum profit to be used to identify the recommended price. | A method includes identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles based on input from a user. The method also includes receiving from the user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle. The method further includes identifying a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. The one or more parameters could include a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price. Different pricing formulas can be associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available. A first of the pricing formulas can be used to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle and, after a specified amount of time has elapsed, a second of the pricing formulas can be used to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle.1. A method comprising:
identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles based on input from a user; receiving from the user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle; and identifying a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein:
the one or more parameters comprise a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price; and different pricing formulas are associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein identifying the recommended price comprises:
using a first of the pricing formulas to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle; and after a specified amount of time has elapsed, using a second of the pricing formulas to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the pricing formulas define a continuous pricing strategy that accounts for constant vehicle aging. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying the competitive set of other vehicles comprises:
receiving from the user one or more filtering criteria; and identifying other vehicles that satisfy the one or more filtering criteria for inclusion in the competitive set. 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
creating a modified competitive set by at least one of:
adding one or more additional vehicles to the competitive set as the one or more additional vehicles enter at least one marketplace; and
removing one or more expired vehicles from the competitive set as the one or more expired vehicles leave the at least one marketplace; and
updating the recommended price for the specified vehicle using the modified competitive set. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein:
receiving the one or more parameters comprises receiving a selection or definition of at least one pricing formula to be used to identify the recommended price; and each pricing formula comprises:
a time/age parameter that defines a period of time for which the formula is to be used to identify the recommended price;
a pricing guide parameter that indicates which prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be used to identify the recommended price;
a modifier parameter that indicates how the prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be modified to identify the recommended price; and
a profit protection parameter that identifies a price floor or minimum profit to be used to identify the recommended price. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein:
the pricing guide parameter comprises one of: a median price of the other vehicles in the competitive set and an initial listing price of the other vehicles in the competitive set; and the modifier parameter comprises one of: a specified amount and a specified percentage. 9. A system comprising:
at least one memory configured to store information identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles; and at least one processing device configured to:
receive from a user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle; and
identify a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein:
the one or more parameters comprise a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price; and different pricing formulas are associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the at least one processing device is configured to:
use a first of the pricing formulas to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle; and after a specified amount of time has elapsed, use a second of the pricing formulas to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the pricing formulas define a continuous pricing strategy that accounts for constant vehicle aging. 13. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one processing device is configured to:
receive from the user one or more filtering criteria; and identify other vehicles that satisfy the one or more filtering criteria for inclusion in the competitive set. 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one processing device is further configured to:
create a modified competitive set by at least one of:
adding one or more additional vehicles to the competitive set as the one or more additional vehicles enter at least one marketplace; and
removing one or more expired vehicles from the competitive set as the one or more expired vehicles leave the at least one marketplace; and
update the recommended price for the specified vehicle using the modified competitive set. 15. The system of claim 9, wherein:
the at least one processing device is further configured to receive a selection or definition of at least one pricing formula to be used to identify the recommended price; and each pricing formula comprises:
a time/age parameter that defines a period of time for which the formula is to be used to identify the recommended price;
a pricing guide parameter that indicates which prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be used to identify the recommended price;
a modifier parameter that indicates how the prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be modified to identify the recommended price; and
a profit protection parameter that identifies a price floor or minimum profit to be used to identify the recommended price. 16. A non-transitory computer readable medium embodying a computer program, the computer program comprising computer readable program code for:
identifying, for a specified vehicle, a competitive set of other vehicles based on input from a user; receiving from the user one or more parameters to be used in pricing the specified vehicle; and identifying a recommended price for the specified vehicle using the competitive set and the one or more parameters. 17. The computer readable medium of claim 16, wherein:
the one or more parameters comprise a selection or definition of multiple pricing formulas to be used to identify the recommended price; different pricing formulas are associated with different lengths of time that the specified vehicle is available; and the pricing formulas define a continuous pricing strategy that accounts for constant vehicle aging. 18. The computer readable medium of claim 17, wherein the computer readable program code for identifying the recommended price comprises computer readable program code for:
using a first of the pricing formulas to identify a first recommended price for the specified vehicle; and after a specified amount of time has elapsed, using a second of the pricing formulas to identify a lower second recommended price for the specified vehicle. 19. The computer readable medium of claim 16, further comprising computer readable program code for:
creating a modified competitive set by at least one of:
adding one or more additional vehicles to the competitive set as the one or more additional vehicles enter at least one marketplace; and
removing one or more expired vehicles from the competitive set as the one or more expired vehicles leave the at least one marketplace; and
updating the recommended price for the specified vehicle using the modified competitive set. 20. The computer readable medium of claim 16, wherein:
the computer readable program code for receiving the one or more parameters comprises computer readable program code for receiving a selection or definition of at least one pricing formula to be used to identify the recommended price; and each pricing formula comprises:
a time/age parameter that defines a period of time for which the formula is to be used to identify the recommended price;
a pricing guide parameter that indicates which prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be used to identify the recommended price;
a modifier parameter that indicates how the prices of the other vehicles in the competitive set are to be modified to identify the recommended price; and
a profit protection parameter that identifies a price floor or minimum profit to be used to identify the recommended price. | 3,600 |
13,376 | 13,376 | 15,178,061 | 3,685 | Systems and methods for verifying users in connection with transactions using payment devices are disclosed. One exemplary method generally includes receiving a select command for an AID associated with a payment application from a terminal and, in response, initiating by a security chip of a payment device, a timer after power-up of the security chip by the terminal. The method also includes capturing a biometric of a user, at a biometric sensor, according to the payment application, and verifying, by the security chip, the captured biometric based on reference biometric data. The method further includes, when the timer is unexpired and the captured biometric is verified, appending a first value to a CVR and returning a first AFL to the terminal, and when the timer is expired, appending a different value to the CVR and returning a different AFL to the terminal. | 1. A payment device associated with a payment account, the device comprising:
a fingerprint sensor; and a security chip coupled to the fingerprint sensor and including a payment application, the security chip configured to:
initiate the payment application, which is configured to invoke a verification application, which when invoked, causes the security chip to:
initiate a timer;
capture a fingerprint image, at the fingerprint sensor, when a finger is presented at the fingerprint sensor and when the timer is unexpired;
validate the captured fingerprint image against reference fingerprint data stored in the payment device;
when the timer expires, without a match to the reference fingerprint data, return a first authentication file location (AFL) to a terminal in response to a select comment from the terminal;
when a match between the captured fingerprint image and the reference fingerprint data is found, while the timer is unexpired, return a second AFL to the terminal in response to the select command from the terminal; and
return to the payment application. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the security chip is configured to:
append a first value to a card verification result (CVR) when the captured fingerprint matches the reference fingerprint data; and append a second value to the CVR when the captured fingerprint is not validated. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the security chip is configured to append a third value to the CVR when the timer is expired and no fingerprint image is captured. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein one or more dimensions of the payment device are defined by an ID-1 standard; and
wherein the fingerprint sensor and the security chip are disposed at opposite end portions of the payment device, such that the security chip is able to be positioned to interact with the terminal, while the fingerprint sensor remains accessible to a user. 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the security chip is configured, in order to initiate the timer, to respond to a defined number of waiting time extension (WTX) requests received from the terminal; and
wherein the second AFL includes a card verification method (CVM) list comprising offline personal identification number (PIN) verification, online PIN verification, and/or signature verification. 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the security chip is configured to store the reference fingerprint data based on the captured fingerprint image, when no reference fingerprint data is stored in the payment device prior to the capture of the fingerprint image. 7. A system comprising the payment device of claim 1 and at least one of a payment network and an issuer, the at least one of the payment network and the issuer configured to:
intercept an authorization request associated with a transaction to a payment account, initiated by presenting said payment device, when an account number for the transaction is within a range of account numbers and a card verification result (CVR) included in the authorization request indicates a verified biometric;
append a verification indicator to the intercepted authorization request; and
permit the authorization request associated with the transaction to proceed. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one of the payment network and/or the issuer is configured to append the verification indicator to Sub-Element 17 of Data Element 48 of the intercepted authorization request;
wherein the system further comprises the terminal, the terminal structured such that the fingerprint sensor is accessible to a user, when the security chip is in contact with the terminal; and
wherein the terminal is selected from the group consisting of a point-of-sale (POS) terminal and an automated teller machine (ATM) terminal. 9. A computer-implemented method for use in verifying users, in connection with transactions using payment devices, the method comprising:
receiving a select command, for an application identifier (AID) associated with a payment application, from a terminal; in response to the select command, initiating, by a security chip of a payment device, a timer after power-up of the security chip by the terminal, the payment device associated with a payment account; capturing a biometric of a user, at a biometric sensor, according to the payment application, when a biometric is present at the biometric sensor; verifying, by the security chip, the captured biometric based on reference biometric data; when the timer is unexpired, and the captured biometric is verified, appending a first value to a card verification result (CVR) and returning a first authentication file location (AFL) to the terminal; and when the timer is expired, appending a different value to the CVR and returning a different AFL to the terminal, whereby the terminal is able to proceed to an authorization request and/or employ one or more verification methods in response to the first or different AFL. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein appending the different value to the CVR includes:
appending a second value to the CVR when the captured biometric is not verified; and appending a third value to the CVR when no biometric is captured. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the security chip includes an EMV chip. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
generating, by the security chip, according to the payment application, a cryptogram based on the value of the CVR; and transmitting the cryptogram to the terminal, whereby the cryptogram is included in the authorization request for a payment transaction initiated using the payment device. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising transmitting the CVR to the terminal, whereby the terminal includes the CVR in the authorization request. 14. The method of claim 9, wherein initiating the timer includes counting a number of waiting time extension (WTX) requests received from the terminal, until a predefined number of WTX requests is counted; and
further comprising expiring the timer when the predefined number of WTX requests is satisfied. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the terminal is selected from the group consisting of a point-of-sale (POS) terminal and an automated teller machine (ATM) terminal. 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the payment device includes the biometric sensor; and
wherein the biometric is a fingerprint, and the biometric sensor is a fingerprint sensor. 17. A non-transitory computer readable storage media including computer-executable instructions for verifying a user in connection with a transaction involving a payment device, which when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
initiate a counter of waiting time extension (WTX) requests received from a terminal providing power to a payment device; detect and capture, at a fingerprint sensor of the payment device, a fingerprint of a user; verify the captured fingerprint against reference fingerprint data stored at the payment device; append a value to a card verification result (CVR) when the captured fingerprint is verified; generate a cryptogram when the captured fingerprint is verified; and transmit the cryptogram to the terminal, whereby the cryptogram and the CVR are included in an authorization request for a transaction initiated with the payment device, such that, based on content of the cryptogram and/or the CVR, a source entity is able to verify the user and distribute one or more benefits thereto. 18. The non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to launch a payment application in response to power from the terminal. 19. The non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to append a different value to the CVR when the captured fingerprint is not verified and the counter expires. 20. The non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to return a first authentication file location (AFL) to the terminal when the captured fingerprint is verified and a second AFL when the captured fingerprint is not verified, such that the terminal is able to determine to employ a further verification method, or not. | Systems and methods for verifying users in connection with transactions using payment devices are disclosed. One exemplary method generally includes receiving a select command for an AID associated with a payment application from a terminal and, in response, initiating by a security chip of a payment device, a timer after power-up of the security chip by the terminal. The method also includes capturing a biometric of a user, at a biometric sensor, according to the payment application, and verifying, by the security chip, the captured biometric based on reference biometric data. The method further includes, when the timer is unexpired and the captured biometric is verified, appending a first value to a CVR and returning a first AFL to the terminal, and when the timer is expired, appending a different value to the CVR and returning a different AFL to the terminal.1. A payment device associated with a payment account, the device comprising:
a fingerprint sensor; and a security chip coupled to the fingerprint sensor and including a payment application, the security chip configured to:
initiate the payment application, which is configured to invoke a verification application, which when invoked, causes the security chip to:
initiate a timer;
capture a fingerprint image, at the fingerprint sensor, when a finger is presented at the fingerprint sensor and when the timer is unexpired;
validate the captured fingerprint image against reference fingerprint data stored in the payment device;
when the timer expires, without a match to the reference fingerprint data, return a first authentication file location (AFL) to a terminal in response to a select comment from the terminal;
when a match between the captured fingerprint image and the reference fingerprint data is found, while the timer is unexpired, return a second AFL to the terminal in response to the select command from the terminal; and
return to the payment application. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the security chip is configured to:
append a first value to a card verification result (CVR) when the captured fingerprint matches the reference fingerprint data; and append a second value to the CVR when the captured fingerprint is not validated. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the security chip is configured to append a third value to the CVR when the timer is expired and no fingerprint image is captured. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein one or more dimensions of the payment device are defined by an ID-1 standard; and
wherein the fingerprint sensor and the security chip are disposed at opposite end portions of the payment device, such that the security chip is able to be positioned to interact with the terminal, while the fingerprint sensor remains accessible to a user. 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the security chip is configured, in order to initiate the timer, to respond to a defined number of waiting time extension (WTX) requests received from the terminal; and
wherein the second AFL includes a card verification method (CVM) list comprising offline personal identification number (PIN) verification, online PIN verification, and/or signature verification. 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the security chip is configured to store the reference fingerprint data based on the captured fingerprint image, when no reference fingerprint data is stored in the payment device prior to the capture of the fingerprint image. 7. A system comprising the payment device of claim 1 and at least one of a payment network and an issuer, the at least one of the payment network and the issuer configured to:
intercept an authorization request associated with a transaction to a payment account, initiated by presenting said payment device, when an account number for the transaction is within a range of account numbers and a card verification result (CVR) included in the authorization request indicates a verified biometric;
append a verification indicator to the intercepted authorization request; and
permit the authorization request associated with the transaction to proceed. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one of the payment network and/or the issuer is configured to append the verification indicator to Sub-Element 17 of Data Element 48 of the intercepted authorization request;
wherein the system further comprises the terminal, the terminal structured such that the fingerprint sensor is accessible to a user, when the security chip is in contact with the terminal; and
wherein the terminal is selected from the group consisting of a point-of-sale (POS) terminal and an automated teller machine (ATM) terminal. 9. A computer-implemented method for use in verifying users, in connection with transactions using payment devices, the method comprising:
receiving a select command, for an application identifier (AID) associated with a payment application, from a terminal; in response to the select command, initiating, by a security chip of a payment device, a timer after power-up of the security chip by the terminal, the payment device associated with a payment account; capturing a biometric of a user, at a biometric sensor, according to the payment application, when a biometric is present at the biometric sensor; verifying, by the security chip, the captured biometric based on reference biometric data; when the timer is unexpired, and the captured biometric is verified, appending a first value to a card verification result (CVR) and returning a first authentication file location (AFL) to the terminal; and when the timer is expired, appending a different value to the CVR and returning a different AFL to the terminal, whereby the terminal is able to proceed to an authorization request and/or employ one or more verification methods in response to the first or different AFL. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein appending the different value to the CVR includes:
appending a second value to the CVR when the captured biometric is not verified; and appending a third value to the CVR when no biometric is captured. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the security chip includes an EMV chip. 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
generating, by the security chip, according to the payment application, a cryptogram based on the value of the CVR; and transmitting the cryptogram to the terminal, whereby the cryptogram is included in the authorization request for a payment transaction initiated using the payment device. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising transmitting the CVR to the terminal, whereby the terminal includes the CVR in the authorization request. 14. The method of claim 9, wherein initiating the timer includes counting a number of waiting time extension (WTX) requests received from the terminal, until a predefined number of WTX requests is counted; and
further comprising expiring the timer when the predefined number of WTX requests is satisfied. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the terminal is selected from the group consisting of a point-of-sale (POS) terminal and an automated teller machine (ATM) terminal. 16. The method of claim 14, wherein the payment device includes the biometric sensor; and
wherein the biometric is a fingerprint, and the biometric sensor is a fingerprint sensor. 17. A non-transitory computer readable storage media including computer-executable instructions for verifying a user in connection with a transaction involving a payment device, which when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to:
initiate a counter of waiting time extension (WTX) requests received from a terminal providing power to a payment device; detect and capture, at a fingerprint sensor of the payment device, a fingerprint of a user; verify the captured fingerprint against reference fingerprint data stored at the payment device; append a value to a card verification result (CVR) when the captured fingerprint is verified; generate a cryptogram when the captured fingerprint is verified; and transmit the cryptogram to the terminal, whereby the cryptogram and the CVR are included in an authorization request for a transaction initiated with the payment device, such that, based on content of the cryptogram and/or the CVR, a source entity is able to verify the user and distribute one or more benefits thereto. 18. The non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to launch a payment application in response to power from the terminal. 19. The non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to append a different value to the CVR when the captured fingerprint is not verified and the counter expires. 20. The non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 17, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to return a first authentication file location (AFL) to the terminal when the captured fingerprint is verified and a second AFL when the captured fingerprint is not verified, such that the terminal is able to determine to employ a further verification method, or not. | 3,600 |
13,377 | 13,377 | 14,682,697 | 3,693 | A method for managing scheduled payroll payments to employees. A computer system identifies a schedule of payments to an employee. The computer system displays schedule in a graphical user interface on a display system in the computer system. The computer system receives user input through the graphical user interface specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments. The computer system changes the schedule based on the request. | 1. A method for managing scheduled payroll payments to employees, the method comprising:
identifying, by a computer system, a schedule of payments to an employee; displaying, by the computer system, the schedule; receiving, by the computer system, user input specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments; and changing, by the computer system, the schedule based on the request. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the change is for a portion of the pay to be sent at different times other than the scheduled times. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the pay is selected from the group consisting of accrued compensation, anticipated compensation, and combinations thereof. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving, by the computer system, manager approval process for the change 5. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
determining whether to change the schedule based a set of factors. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the set of factors is selected from the group consisting of employee performance, employee level, amount of funds, purpose of funds, funds availability determination. 7. The method of claim 3, wherein the pay comprises anticipated compensation, the method further comprising:
identifying a collateral to secure the anticipated compensation. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the collateral comprises at least one accrued vacation day of the employee, the method further comprising:
deducting the at least one accrued vacation days. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
re-crediting the at least one vacation day to the employee upon earning additional accrued compensation equal to the anticipated compensation. 10. A computer system comprising:
a display system; and a payroll manager of a payroll management system in the computer system in communication with the display system, wherein the payroll manager identifies a schedule of payments to an employee; displays the schedule; receives user input specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments; and changes the schedule based on the request. 11. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the change is for a portion of the pay to be sent at different times other than the scheduled times. 12. The computer system of claim 11, wherein the pay is selected from the group consisting of accrued compensation, anticipated compensation, and combinations thereof. 13. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the payroll manager receives manager approval process for the change. 14. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the payroll manager determines whether to change the schedule based a set of factors. 15. The computer system of claim 14, wherein the set of factors is selected from the group consisting of employee performance, employee level, amount of funds, purpose of funds, funds availability determination. 16. The computer system of claim 12, wherein the pay comprises anticipated compensation, wherein the payroll manager identifies a collateral to secure the anticipated compensation. 17. The computer system of claim 16, wherein the collateral comprises at least one accrued vacation day of the employee, wherein the payroll manager deducts the at least one accrued vacation days. 18. The computer system of claim 17, wherein the payroll manager re-credits the at least one vacation day to the employee upon earning additional accrued compensation equal to the anticipated compensation. 19. A computer program product for managing scheduled payroll payments to employees, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable storage media; first program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for identifying a schedule of payments to an employee; second program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for displaying the schedule; third program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for receiving user input specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments; and fourth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for changing the schedule based on the request. 20. The computer program product of claim 19, wherein the change is for a portion of the pay to be sent at different times other than the scheduled times. 21. The computer program product of claim 20, wherein the pay is selected from the group consisting of accrued compensation, anticipated compensation, and combinations thereof. 22. The computer program product of claim 19 further comprising:
fifth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for receiving manager approval process for the change 23. The computer program product of claim 19 further comprising:
fifth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for determining whether to change the schedule based a set of factors. 24. The computer program product of claim 23, wherein the set of factors is selected from the group consisting of employee performance, employee level, amount of funds, purpose of funds, funds availability determination. 25. The computer program product of claim 21, wherein the pay comprises anticipated compensation, the computer program product further comprising:
eighth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for identifying a collateral to secure the anticipated compensation. 26. The computer program product of claim 25, wherein the collateral comprises at least one accrued vacation day of the employee, the computer program product further comprising:
ninth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for deducting the at least one accrued vacation days. 27. The computer program product of claim 26, further comprising:
tenth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for re-crediting the at least one vacation day to the employee upon earning additional accrued compensation equal to the anticipated compensation. | A method for managing scheduled payroll payments to employees. A computer system identifies a schedule of payments to an employee. The computer system displays schedule in a graphical user interface on a display system in the computer system. The computer system receives user input through the graphical user interface specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments. The computer system changes the schedule based on the request.1. A method for managing scheduled payroll payments to employees, the method comprising:
identifying, by a computer system, a schedule of payments to an employee; displaying, by the computer system, the schedule; receiving, by the computer system, user input specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments; and changing, by the computer system, the schedule based on the request. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the change is for a portion of the pay to be sent at different times other than the scheduled times. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the pay is selected from the group consisting of accrued compensation, anticipated compensation, and combinations thereof. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
receiving, by the computer system, manager approval process for the change 5. The method of claim 1 further comprising:
determining whether to change the schedule based a set of factors. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the set of factors is selected from the group consisting of employee performance, employee level, amount of funds, purpose of funds, funds availability determination. 7. The method of claim 3, wherein the pay comprises anticipated compensation, the method further comprising:
identifying a collateral to secure the anticipated compensation. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the collateral comprises at least one accrued vacation day of the employee, the method further comprising:
deducting the at least one accrued vacation days. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
re-crediting the at least one vacation day to the employee upon earning additional accrued compensation equal to the anticipated compensation. 10. A computer system comprising:
a display system; and a payroll manager of a payroll management system in the computer system in communication with the display system, wherein the payroll manager identifies a schedule of payments to an employee; displays the schedule; receives user input specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments; and changes the schedule based on the request. 11. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the change is for a portion of the pay to be sent at different times other than the scheduled times. 12. The computer system of claim 11, wherein the pay is selected from the group consisting of accrued compensation, anticipated compensation, and combinations thereof. 13. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the payroll manager receives manager approval process for the change. 14. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the payroll manager determines whether to change the schedule based a set of factors. 15. The computer system of claim 14, wherein the set of factors is selected from the group consisting of employee performance, employee level, amount of funds, purpose of funds, funds availability determination. 16. The computer system of claim 12, wherein the pay comprises anticipated compensation, wherein the payroll manager identifies a collateral to secure the anticipated compensation. 17. The computer system of claim 16, wherein the collateral comprises at least one accrued vacation day of the employee, wherein the payroll manager deducts the at least one accrued vacation days. 18. The computer system of claim 17, wherein the payroll manager re-credits the at least one vacation day to the employee upon earning additional accrued compensation equal to the anticipated compensation. 19. A computer program product for managing scheduled payroll payments to employees, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable storage media; first program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for identifying a schedule of payments to an employee; second program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for displaying the schedule; third program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for receiving user input specifying a request to change the schedule for a portion of the payments; and fourth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for changing the schedule based on the request. 20. The computer program product of claim 19, wherein the change is for a portion of the pay to be sent at different times other than the scheduled times. 21. The computer program product of claim 20, wherein the pay is selected from the group consisting of accrued compensation, anticipated compensation, and combinations thereof. 22. The computer program product of claim 19 further comprising:
fifth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for receiving manager approval process for the change 23. The computer program product of claim 19 further comprising:
fifth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for determining whether to change the schedule based a set of factors. 24. The computer program product of claim 23, wherein the set of factors is selected from the group consisting of employee performance, employee level, amount of funds, purpose of funds, funds availability determination. 25. The computer program product of claim 21, wherein the pay comprises anticipated compensation, the computer program product further comprising:
eighth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for identifying a collateral to secure the anticipated compensation. 26. The computer program product of claim 25, wherein the collateral comprises at least one accrued vacation day of the employee, the computer program product further comprising:
ninth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for deducting the at least one accrued vacation days. 27. The computer program product of claim 26, further comprising:
tenth program code, stored on the computer readable storage media, for re-crediting the at least one vacation day to the employee upon earning additional accrued compensation equal to the anticipated compensation. | 3,600 |
13,378 | 13,378 | 11,695,151 | 3,629 | Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to conversation protocol validation and provide a method, system and computer program product for testing protocol compatibility between trading partners in a B2B conversation. In one embodiment of the invention, a method for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a B2B conversation can be provided. The method can include selecting at least two roles from amongst global process models, constructing local protocols for each of the selected roles, generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols, and detecting dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility while identifying protocol compatibility in the absence of dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol. | 1. A method for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a business-to-business (B2B) conversation, the method comprising:
selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior; receiving local protocols for each of the selected roles; generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols; and, detecting dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility while identifying protocol compatibility in the absence of dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior comprises selecting swimlanes for corresponding global process models, each swim lane corresponding to a selected role. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein constructing local protocols for each of the selected roles comprises for each of the selected roles:
labeling the global process model for a selected role; first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model; second constructing and populating a protocol state machine from the execution state graph; and, pruning the protocol state machine by dropping redundant protocol states. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model comprises:
creating an empty execution state graph for the labeled global process model; determining initial token placements for the labeled global process model; adding initial nodes for each initial token placement to the execution state graph; and, constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final comprises:
locating for an existing node of the execution state graph having no outgoing transitions, all immediate successor placements for an associated token placement of the existing node; adding a transition to the existing node responsive to locating immediate successor placements to the associated token placement of the existing node and finding an existing node in the execution state graph corresponding to the immediate successor placements and otherwise adding a new node corresponding to the immediate successor placements and a transition from the existing node to one of the existing node or a new node; and, otherwise marking the existing node as final where no immediate successor placements for the associated token placement can be found. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols comprises forming a product of the constructed local protocols. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein forming a product of the constructed local protocols comprises:
forming an initial state of the conversation protocol; constructing outbound send and receive transitions for each state in the conversation protocol; and, marking states whose constituents are solely final states of the local protocols as final conversation states. 8. A data processing system configured for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a business-to-business (B2B) conversation, the system comprising:
at least one global process model disposed in a data processing system; a plurality of different local protocols, each of the protocols corresponding to a different swimlane in the at least one global process model; a conversation protocol produced as a product of the different local protocols; and, protocol compatibility logic disposed in the data processing system, the logic comprising program code enabled to detect dead end states in the conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility. 9. A computer program product comprising a computer usable medium embodying computer usable program code for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a business-to-business (B2B) conversation, the computer program product including:
computer usable program code for selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior; computer usable program code for receiving local protocols for each of the selected roles; computer usable program code for generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols; and, computer usable program code for detecting dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility while identifying protocol compatibility in the absence of dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol. 10. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the computer usable program code for selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior comprises computer usable program code for selecting different swimlanes for corresponding global process models, each swimlane corresponding to a selected role. 11. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein the computer usable program code for constructing local protocols for each of the selected roles comprises for each of the selected roles:
computer usable program code for labeling the global process model for a selected role; computer usable program code for first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model; computer usable program code for second constructing and populating a protocol state machine from the execution state graph; and, computer usable program code for pruning the protocol state machine by dropping redundant protocol states. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer usable program code for first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model comprises:
computer usable program code for creating an empty execution state graph for the labeled global process model; computer usable program code for retrieving token placements for the labeled global process model; computer usable program code for adding initial nodes for each token placement to the execution state graph; and, computer usable program code for constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final. 13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein the computer usable program code for constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final comprises:
computer usable program code for locating for an existing node of the execution state graph having no outgoing transitions, all immediate successor placements for an associated token placement of the existing node; computer usable program code for adding a transition to the existing node responsive to locating immediate successor placements to the associated token placement of the existing node and finding an existing node in the execution state graph corresponding to the immediate successor placements and otherwise adding a new node corresponding to the immediate successor placements and a transition from the existing node to one of the existing node or a new node; and, computer usable program code for otherwise marking the existing node as final where no immediate successor placements for the associated token placement can be found. 14. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the computer usable program code for generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols comprises computer usable program code for forming a product of the constructed local protocols. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the computer usable program code for forming a product of the constructed local protocols comprises:
computer usable program code for forming an initial state of the conversation protocol; computer usable program code for constructing outbound send and receive transitions for each state in the conversation protocol; and, computer usable program code for marking states whose constituents are solely final states of the local protocols as final conversation states. | Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to conversation protocol validation and provide a method, system and computer program product for testing protocol compatibility between trading partners in a B2B conversation. In one embodiment of the invention, a method for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a B2B conversation can be provided. The method can include selecting at least two roles from amongst global process models, constructing local protocols for each of the selected roles, generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols, and detecting dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility while identifying protocol compatibility in the absence of dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol.1. A method for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a business-to-business (B2B) conversation, the method comprising:
selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior; receiving local protocols for each of the selected roles; generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols; and, detecting dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility while identifying protocol compatibility in the absence of dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior comprises selecting swimlanes for corresponding global process models, each swim lane corresponding to a selected role. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein constructing local protocols for each of the selected roles comprises for each of the selected roles:
labeling the global process model for a selected role; first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model; second constructing and populating a protocol state machine from the execution state graph; and, pruning the protocol state machine by dropping redundant protocol states. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model comprises:
creating an empty execution state graph for the labeled global process model; determining initial token placements for the labeled global process model; adding initial nodes for each initial token placement to the execution state graph; and, constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final comprises:
locating for an existing node of the execution state graph having no outgoing transitions, all immediate successor placements for an associated token placement of the existing node; adding a transition to the existing node responsive to locating immediate successor placements to the associated token placement of the existing node and finding an existing node in the execution state graph corresponding to the immediate successor placements and otherwise adding a new node corresponding to the immediate successor placements and a transition from the existing node to one of the existing node or a new node; and, otherwise marking the existing node as final where no immediate successor placements for the associated token placement can be found. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols comprises forming a product of the constructed local protocols. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein forming a product of the constructed local protocols comprises:
forming an initial state of the conversation protocol; constructing outbound send and receive transitions for each state in the conversation protocol; and, marking states whose constituents are solely final states of the local protocols as final conversation states. 8. A data processing system configured for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a business-to-business (B2B) conversation, the system comprising:
at least one global process model disposed in a data processing system; a plurality of different local protocols, each of the protocols corresponding to a different swimlane in the at least one global process model; a conversation protocol produced as a product of the different local protocols; and, protocol compatibility logic disposed in the data processing system, the logic comprising program code enabled to detect dead end states in the conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility. 9. A computer program product comprising a computer usable medium embodying computer usable program code for testing protocol compatibility between roles in a business-to-business (B2B) conversation, the computer program product including:
computer usable program code for selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior; computer usable program code for receiving local protocols for each of the selected roles; computer usable program code for generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols; and, computer usable program code for detecting dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol to identify protocol incompatibility while identifying protocol compatibility in the absence of dead-end states in the generated conversation protocol. 10. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the computer usable program code for selecting at least two roles with known interaction behavior comprises computer usable program code for selecting different swimlanes for corresponding global process models, each swimlane corresponding to a selected role. 11. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein the computer usable program code for constructing local protocols for each of the selected roles comprises for each of the selected roles:
computer usable program code for labeling the global process model for a selected role; computer usable program code for first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model; computer usable program code for second constructing and populating a protocol state machine from the execution state graph; and, computer usable program code for pruning the protocol state machine by dropping redundant protocol states. 12. The computer program product of claim 11, wherein the computer usable program code for first constructing and marking an execution state graph from the labeled global process model comprises:
computer usable program code for creating an empty execution state graph for the labeled global process model; computer usable program code for retrieving token placements for the labeled global process model; computer usable program code for adding initial nodes for each token placement to the execution state graph; and, computer usable program code for constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final. 13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein the computer usable program code for constructing successor nodes in the execution state graph for each node of the execution state graph that has no outgoing transitions and has not been marked final comprises:
computer usable program code for locating for an existing node of the execution state graph having no outgoing transitions, all immediate successor placements for an associated token placement of the existing node; computer usable program code for adding a transition to the existing node responsive to locating immediate successor placements to the associated token placement of the existing node and finding an existing node in the execution state graph corresponding to the immediate successor placements and otherwise adding a new node corresponding to the immediate successor placements and a transition from the existing node to one of the existing node or a new node; and, computer usable program code for otherwise marking the existing node as final where no immediate successor placements for the associated token placement can be found. 14. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the computer usable program code for generating a conversation protocol from the constructed local protocols comprises computer usable program code for forming a product of the constructed local protocols. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the computer usable program code for forming a product of the constructed local protocols comprises:
computer usable program code for forming an initial state of the conversation protocol; computer usable program code for constructing outbound send and receive transitions for each state in the conversation protocol; and, computer usable program code for marking states whose constituents are solely final states of the local protocols as final conversation states. | 3,600 |
13,379 | 13,379 | 13,313,912 | 3,661 | One or more instances of virtual point-of-sale (POS) devices are established in the cloud for use by customers at a physical merchant location. The customers may provide payment information and an indication of the good or service they wish to purchase by using a mobile computing device at the merchant's location and to communicate with a POS device associated with the merchant location. The mobile computing device may be used to scan a tag associated with the desired good or service, the customer may enter a code representing the desired good or service, or the customer make a selection from a list of goods and/or services presented on the mobile computing device. The POS device can provide an electronic receipt to the mobile computing device which the customer may show to the merchant as evidence that the customer has paid for the good or service. | 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
under control of a network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device assigned to a merchant location but located remote from the merchant location, the network-accessible POS device configured with executable instructions, receiving a selection of a good or service available at the merchant location, the selection made by a user of a mobile computing device while the goods and services available at the merchant are displayed on the mobile computing device and while the user and the mobile computing device are located at the merchant location; receiving payment information from the mobile computing device, the payment information entered by the user into the mobile computing device to pay for the good or service; presenting the payment information to a payment processor; receiving confirmation from the payment processor that the payment information is associated with sufficient funds to pay for the good or service; responsive to receiving the confirmation, generating a receipt that includes validation data based at least in part on seed information provided by a merchant operating the merchant location and an indication of the good or service; and sending the receipt to the mobile computing device for display by the user of the mobile computing device to the merchant as evidence of payment for the good or service. 2. A computer-implemented method comprising:
under control of a network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device assigned to a merchant location but located remote from the merchant location, the network-accessible POS device configured with executable instructions, receiving a scan of a tag associated with a good or service available at the merchant location, the scan generated by a mobile computing device while a user of the mobile computing device and the mobile computing device are located at the merchant location; receiving a user identifier that uniquely identifies the user of the mobile computing device; using the user identifier to obtain previously stored payment information associated with the user to pay for the good or service; presenting the payment information to a payment processor; receiving confirmation from the payment processor that the payment information is associated with sufficient funds to pay for the good or service; responsive to receiving the confirmation, generating a receipt that identifies the good or service; and sending the receipt to the mobile computing device and to a computing device of a merchant operating the merchant location so that matching the receipt on the computing device of the merchant with the receipt on the mobile computing device to provides evidence of payment for the good or service. 3. A network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device comprising:
one or more processors; a network interface; computer-readable media coupled to the one or more processors, the computer-readable media comprising:
a merchant location assignment module configured to associate the POS device with a merchant location remote from a physical location of the POS device;
a purchase module configured to receive, via the network interface, a purchase request from a customer-operated device located at the merchant location, the purchase request comprising payment information and an identification of a good or service;
a payment module configured to provide payment information to a payment processor and receive an authorization from the payment processor to fulfill the purchase request; and
a receipt generation module configured to generate a receipt evidencing the authorization from the payment processor and identifying the good or service. 4. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the merchant location assignment module exclusively associates the POS device with the merchant location. 5. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the merchant location assignment module associates the POS device with the merchant location for a time period based at least in part on a volume of transactions occurring or estimated to occur at the merchant location during the time period. 6. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the merchant location assignment module establishes a secure connection between the POS device and a merchant network maintained by a merchant operating the merchant location so that the POS device functions as a part of the merchant network. 7. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the payment information comprises payment information entered by a user of a customer-operated device at a time of the purchase request, payment information previously stored in a memory of the customer-operated device, or payment information available via a network and associated with the customer-operated device by a user identifier stored in a memory of the customer-operated device. 8. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the identification of the good or service comprises a scan generated by the customer-operated device of a tag associated with the good or service, a selection of the good or service from a list displayed on the customer-operated device, or a code entered into the customer-operated device. 9. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the receipt generation module sends the receipt to the customer-operated device and the receipt includes validation data based at least in part on information provided by a merchant associated with the merchant location. 10. The POS device as recited in claim 9, wherein the information is changed at a frequency specified by the merchant. 11. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the receipt generation module sends the receipt to the customer-operated device and to a computing device of a merchant operating the merchant location. 12. The POS device as recited in claim 12, wherein the computer-readable media further comprises a security module configured to receive an indication of a location of the customer-operated device, compare the location of the customer-operated device to the merchant location, and when the location of the customer-operated device is more than a threshold distance from the merchant location prevent the customer-operated device from completing a purchase with a merchant operating the merchant location. 13. One or more computer-readable media storing computer-executable instructions stored at least partly on a network-accessible computing device located remote from a merchant location and uniquely associated with the merchant location, the computer-executable instructions configured to cause one or more processors of the network-accessible computing device to perform acts comprising:
receiving a purchase request via a network from a customer-operated device at the merchant location, the purchase request comprising payment information and identification of a good or service; sending the payment information to a payment processor; receiving authorization from the payment processor; generating receipt data evidencing receipt of payment and identifying the good or service; and sending the receipt data via the network to the customer-operated device. 14. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the customer-operated device comprises a mobile computing device associated with a customer. 15. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the customer-operated device comprises a mobile computing device maintained by the merchant at the merchant location for use by customers. 16. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the identification of the good or service comprises a code entered into the customer-operated device, the code designated by a merchant operating the merchant location as corresponding to the good or service. 17. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the payment information comprises a credit card number, a debit card number, a bank routing number, or a prepaid account identifier of a prepaid account associated with the merchant location. 18. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein sending the payment information to the payment processor comprises sending payment information using an application programming interface (API) associated with the payment processor, the payment processor identified at least in part by the payment information. 19. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein generating the receipt data comprises generating a receipt that includes validation data indicating authenticity of the receipt. 20. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein sending the receipt data further comprises sending the receipt data via the network to a computing device of a merchant associated with the merchant location. 21. A computer-implemented method comprising:
under control of a mobile computing device configured with executable instructions, receiving, from a user of the mobile computing device at a merchant location, an identity of a good or service available from a merchant at the merchant location; receiving an instruction from the user to send, via a network, the identity of the good or service and payment information to a network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device associated with the merchant location and located remote from the merchant location; and responsive to receiving authorization from the network-accessible POS device, causing display of a receipt on the mobile computing device, the receipt received via the network from the POS device and indicating that a user associated with the mobile device has paid for the identified good or service, wherein the receipt when displayed to the merchant and validated by the merchant results in the user receiving the good or service from the merchant. 22. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein receiving the identity comprises receiving an image of a tag associated with the good or service captured using a camera of the mobile computing device. 23. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein the mobile computing device comprises a smart phone, a tablet computer, or a personal digital assistant. 24. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein the network comprises a wireless network. 25. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein a timing of the causing display of the receipt on the mobile computing device is selected by the user associated with the mobile computing device. 26. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein the receipt enables the merchant to identify a match between the receipt displayed on the mobile computing device and a receipt displayed on a computing device of the merchant. 27. The method as recited in claim 21 further comprising receiving an indication to invalidate the receipt so that the receipt is no longer valid for the good or service. | One or more instances of virtual point-of-sale (POS) devices are established in the cloud for use by customers at a physical merchant location. The customers may provide payment information and an indication of the good or service they wish to purchase by using a mobile computing device at the merchant's location and to communicate with a POS device associated with the merchant location. The mobile computing device may be used to scan a tag associated with the desired good or service, the customer may enter a code representing the desired good or service, or the customer make a selection from a list of goods and/or services presented on the mobile computing device. The POS device can provide an electronic receipt to the mobile computing device which the customer may show to the merchant as evidence that the customer has paid for the good or service.1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
under control of a network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device assigned to a merchant location but located remote from the merchant location, the network-accessible POS device configured with executable instructions, receiving a selection of a good or service available at the merchant location, the selection made by a user of a mobile computing device while the goods and services available at the merchant are displayed on the mobile computing device and while the user and the mobile computing device are located at the merchant location; receiving payment information from the mobile computing device, the payment information entered by the user into the mobile computing device to pay for the good or service; presenting the payment information to a payment processor; receiving confirmation from the payment processor that the payment information is associated with sufficient funds to pay for the good or service; responsive to receiving the confirmation, generating a receipt that includes validation data based at least in part on seed information provided by a merchant operating the merchant location and an indication of the good or service; and sending the receipt to the mobile computing device for display by the user of the mobile computing device to the merchant as evidence of payment for the good or service. 2. A computer-implemented method comprising:
under control of a network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device assigned to a merchant location but located remote from the merchant location, the network-accessible POS device configured with executable instructions, receiving a scan of a tag associated with a good or service available at the merchant location, the scan generated by a mobile computing device while a user of the mobile computing device and the mobile computing device are located at the merchant location; receiving a user identifier that uniquely identifies the user of the mobile computing device; using the user identifier to obtain previously stored payment information associated with the user to pay for the good or service; presenting the payment information to a payment processor; receiving confirmation from the payment processor that the payment information is associated with sufficient funds to pay for the good or service; responsive to receiving the confirmation, generating a receipt that identifies the good or service; and sending the receipt to the mobile computing device and to a computing device of a merchant operating the merchant location so that matching the receipt on the computing device of the merchant with the receipt on the mobile computing device to provides evidence of payment for the good or service. 3. A network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device comprising:
one or more processors; a network interface; computer-readable media coupled to the one or more processors, the computer-readable media comprising:
a merchant location assignment module configured to associate the POS device with a merchant location remote from a physical location of the POS device;
a purchase module configured to receive, via the network interface, a purchase request from a customer-operated device located at the merchant location, the purchase request comprising payment information and an identification of a good or service;
a payment module configured to provide payment information to a payment processor and receive an authorization from the payment processor to fulfill the purchase request; and
a receipt generation module configured to generate a receipt evidencing the authorization from the payment processor and identifying the good or service. 4. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the merchant location assignment module exclusively associates the POS device with the merchant location. 5. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the merchant location assignment module associates the POS device with the merchant location for a time period based at least in part on a volume of transactions occurring or estimated to occur at the merchant location during the time period. 6. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the merchant location assignment module establishes a secure connection between the POS device and a merchant network maintained by a merchant operating the merchant location so that the POS device functions as a part of the merchant network. 7. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the payment information comprises payment information entered by a user of a customer-operated device at a time of the purchase request, payment information previously stored in a memory of the customer-operated device, or payment information available via a network and associated with the customer-operated device by a user identifier stored in a memory of the customer-operated device. 8. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the identification of the good or service comprises a scan generated by the customer-operated device of a tag associated with the good or service, a selection of the good or service from a list displayed on the customer-operated device, or a code entered into the customer-operated device. 9. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the receipt generation module sends the receipt to the customer-operated device and the receipt includes validation data based at least in part on information provided by a merchant associated with the merchant location. 10. The POS device as recited in claim 9, wherein the information is changed at a frequency specified by the merchant. 11. The POS device as recited in claim 3, wherein the receipt generation module sends the receipt to the customer-operated device and to a computing device of a merchant operating the merchant location. 12. The POS device as recited in claim 12, wherein the computer-readable media further comprises a security module configured to receive an indication of a location of the customer-operated device, compare the location of the customer-operated device to the merchant location, and when the location of the customer-operated device is more than a threshold distance from the merchant location prevent the customer-operated device from completing a purchase with a merchant operating the merchant location. 13. One or more computer-readable media storing computer-executable instructions stored at least partly on a network-accessible computing device located remote from a merchant location and uniquely associated with the merchant location, the computer-executable instructions configured to cause one or more processors of the network-accessible computing device to perform acts comprising:
receiving a purchase request via a network from a customer-operated device at the merchant location, the purchase request comprising payment information and identification of a good or service; sending the payment information to a payment processor; receiving authorization from the payment processor; generating receipt data evidencing receipt of payment and identifying the good or service; and sending the receipt data via the network to the customer-operated device. 14. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the customer-operated device comprises a mobile computing device associated with a customer. 15. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the customer-operated device comprises a mobile computing device maintained by the merchant at the merchant location for use by customers. 16. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the identification of the good or service comprises a code entered into the customer-operated device, the code designated by a merchant operating the merchant location as corresponding to the good or service. 17. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein the payment information comprises a credit card number, a debit card number, a bank routing number, or a prepaid account identifier of a prepaid account associated with the merchant location. 18. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein sending the payment information to the payment processor comprises sending payment information using an application programming interface (API) associated with the payment processor, the payment processor identified at least in part by the payment information. 19. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein generating the receipt data comprises generating a receipt that includes validation data indicating authenticity of the receipt. 20. The computer-readable storage media as recited in claim 13, wherein sending the receipt data further comprises sending the receipt data via the network to a computing device of a merchant associated with the merchant location. 21. A computer-implemented method comprising:
under control of a mobile computing device configured with executable instructions, receiving, from a user of the mobile computing device at a merchant location, an identity of a good or service available from a merchant at the merchant location; receiving an instruction from the user to send, via a network, the identity of the good or service and payment information to a network-accessible point-of-sale (POS) device associated with the merchant location and located remote from the merchant location; and responsive to receiving authorization from the network-accessible POS device, causing display of a receipt on the mobile computing device, the receipt received via the network from the POS device and indicating that a user associated with the mobile device has paid for the identified good or service, wherein the receipt when displayed to the merchant and validated by the merchant results in the user receiving the good or service from the merchant. 22. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein receiving the identity comprises receiving an image of a tag associated with the good or service captured using a camera of the mobile computing device. 23. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein the mobile computing device comprises a smart phone, a tablet computer, or a personal digital assistant. 24. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein the network comprises a wireless network. 25. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein a timing of the causing display of the receipt on the mobile computing device is selected by the user associated with the mobile computing device. 26. The method as recited in claim 21, wherein the receipt enables the merchant to identify a match between the receipt displayed on the mobile computing device and a receipt displayed on a computing device of the merchant. 27. The method as recited in claim 21 further comprising receiving an indication to invalidate the receipt so that the receipt is no longer valid for the good or service. | 3,600 |
13,380 | 13,380 | 15,204,828 | 3,642 | A pet toy, in combination, including a containment structure having a longitudinal axis and cross section defining an interior volume. The containment structure, which is preferably collapsible, includes a plurality of containment openings along its longitudinal axis exposing the interior volume to a pet during use of the pet toy, and an electronic component in the form of a hollow shell having a shell opening configured therein. A motor having a rotatable shaft extends toward the opening. A power supply for powering the motor and optional microprocessor, the motor, microprocessor and power supply being supported within the interior of the hollow shell. An attractant is affixed to the rotatable shaft and extends through the shell opening, the microprocessor being programmed to control operation of the motor to cause the attractant to rotate intermittently, the electronic component and attractant being visible to a pet during use of the pet toy. | 1. A pet toy, in combination, comprising:
a containment structure having a longitudinal axis and cross section defining an interior volume, said containment structure comprising a plurality of containment openings along said longitudinal axis exposing said interior volume to a pet during use of said pet toy; and an electronic component comprising a hollow shell having a shell opening configured therein, a motor having a rotatable shaft extending toward said shell opening and a power supply for powering said motor, said motor and power supply being supported within the interior of said hollow shell, an attractant being affixed to said rotatable shaft and extending through said shell opening, said electronic component and said attractant being visible to a pet during use of the pet toy. 2. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein, in use, said attractant intermittently extends through said plurality of containment openings. 3. The pet toy of claim 1 further comprising a microprocessor, said motor being powered by said power supply through said microprocessor, said microprocessor being programmed to control operation of said motor to cause said attractant to rotate intermittently. 4. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said hollow shell is spherical. 5. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said hollow shell is oval. 6. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said rotatable shaft and attractant extend vertically and substantially orthogonally to said longitudinal axis. 7. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein rotation of said attractant causes said hollow shell to move haphazardly within said interior volume. 8. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said cross-section is substantially square or rectangular. 9. The pet toy of claim 8 wherein said containment structure is closed on a first end of said longitudinal axis and open on a second end of said longitudinal axis. 10. The pet toy of claim 9 wherein said containment structure comprises cardboard or chipboard. 11. The pet toy of claim 1 where said containment structure further comprises a fold line or strategically placed cuts to facilitate its collapse during shipment and storage. 12. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said attractant comprises a feathered bundle. 13. A pet toy, in combination, comprising:
a containment structure having a longitudinal axis and square or rectangular cross-section defining an interior volume, said containment structure comprising a plurality of containment openings along said longitudinal axis exposing said interior volume to a pet during use of said pet toy; and an electronic component comprising a substantially spherical or oval hollow shell having an opening configured therein, a motor having a rotatable shaft extending toward said opening and power supply for powering said motor, said motor and power supply being supported within the interior of said hollow shell, an attractant in the form of a feathered bundle being affixed to said rotatable shaft and extending through said shell opening vertically and substantially orthogonally to said longitudinal axis, wherein rotation of said attractant causes said hollow shell to move haphazardly within said interior volume. 14. The pet toy of claim 13 wherein, in use, said attractant intermittently extends through said plurality of containment openings. 15. The pet toy of claim 13 wherein said containment structure is closed on a first end of said longitudinal axis and open on a second end of said longitudinal axis. 16. The pet toy of claim 15 wherein said containment structure comprises cardboard or chipboard. 17. The pet toy of claim 13 further comprising a microprocessor, said motor being powered by said power supply through said microprocessor, said microprocessor being programmed to control operation of said motor to cause said attractant to rotate intermittently. 18. The pet toy of claim 13 where said containment structure further comprises a fold line or strategically placed cuts to facilitate its collapse during shipment and storage. | A pet toy, in combination, including a containment structure having a longitudinal axis and cross section defining an interior volume. The containment structure, which is preferably collapsible, includes a plurality of containment openings along its longitudinal axis exposing the interior volume to a pet during use of the pet toy, and an electronic component in the form of a hollow shell having a shell opening configured therein. A motor having a rotatable shaft extends toward the opening. A power supply for powering the motor and optional microprocessor, the motor, microprocessor and power supply being supported within the interior of the hollow shell. An attractant is affixed to the rotatable shaft and extends through the shell opening, the microprocessor being programmed to control operation of the motor to cause the attractant to rotate intermittently, the electronic component and attractant being visible to a pet during use of the pet toy.1. A pet toy, in combination, comprising:
a containment structure having a longitudinal axis and cross section defining an interior volume, said containment structure comprising a plurality of containment openings along said longitudinal axis exposing said interior volume to a pet during use of said pet toy; and an electronic component comprising a hollow shell having a shell opening configured therein, a motor having a rotatable shaft extending toward said shell opening and a power supply for powering said motor, said motor and power supply being supported within the interior of said hollow shell, an attractant being affixed to said rotatable shaft and extending through said shell opening, said electronic component and said attractant being visible to a pet during use of the pet toy. 2. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein, in use, said attractant intermittently extends through said plurality of containment openings. 3. The pet toy of claim 1 further comprising a microprocessor, said motor being powered by said power supply through said microprocessor, said microprocessor being programmed to control operation of said motor to cause said attractant to rotate intermittently. 4. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said hollow shell is spherical. 5. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said hollow shell is oval. 6. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said rotatable shaft and attractant extend vertically and substantially orthogonally to said longitudinal axis. 7. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein rotation of said attractant causes said hollow shell to move haphazardly within said interior volume. 8. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said cross-section is substantially square or rectangular. 9. The pet toy of claim 8 wherein said containment structure is closed on a first end of said longitudinal axis and open on a second end of said longitudinal axis. 10. The pet toy of claim 9 wherein said containment structure comprises cardboard or chipboard. 11. The pet toy of claim 1 where said containment structure further comprises a fold line or strategically placed cuts to facilitate its collapse during shipment and storage. 12. The pet toy of claim 1 wherein said attractant comprises a feathered bundle. 13. A pet toy, in combination, comprising:
a containment structure having a longitudinal axis and square or rectangular cross-section defining an interior volume, said containment structure comprising a plurality of containment openings along said longitudinal axis exposing said interior volume to a pet during use of said pet toy; and an electronic component comprising a substantially spherical or oval hollow shell having an opening configured therein, a motor having a rotatable shaft extending toward said opening and power supply for powering said motor, said motor and power supply being supported within the interior of said hollow shell, an attractant in the form of a feathered bundle being affixed to said rotatable shaft and extending through said shell opening vertically and substantially orthogonally to said longitudinal axis, wherein rotation of said attractant causes said hollow shell to move haphazardly within said interior volume. 14. The pet toy of claim 13 wherein, in use, said attractant intermittently extends through said plurality of containment openings. 15. The pet toy of claim 13 wherein said containment structure is closed on a first end of said longitudinal axis and open on a second end of said longitudinal axis. 16. The pet toy of claim 15 wherein said containment structure comprises cardboard or chipboard. 17. The pet toy of claim 13 further comprising a microprocessor, said motor being powered by said power supply through said microprocessor, said microprocessor being programmed to control operation of said motor to cause said attractant to rotate intermittently. 18. The pet toy of claim 13 where said containment structure further comprises a fold line or strategically placed cuts to facilitate its collapse during shipment and storage. | 3,600 |
13,381 | 13,381 | 14,873,837 | 3,686 | A drug discovery system may include a data platform and a drug discovery module. The data platform may be scalable to include a plurality of data sources. The data sources may include at least a clinical research database providing results of clinical trials. The drug discovery module may include a pharmaco-genomic mapper configured to provide a mapping of drugs to biomarkers based on extraction of information from the data sources, and a genome connect module configured to provide a mapping of biomarkers to diseases based on extraction of information from the data sources. The drug discovery module may include processing circuitry configured to provide a potential drug to disease link based on the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and the mapping of biomarkers to diseases using the biomarkers as a bridge. | 1. A drug discovery system, the system comprising:
a data platform scalable to include a plurality of data sources, the data sources including at least a clinical research database providing results of clinical trials; and a drug discovery module comprising a pharmaco-genomic mapper configured to provide a mapping of drugs to biomarkers based on extraction of information from the data sources, and a genome connect module configured to provide a mapping of biomarkers to diseases based on extraction of information from the data sources, the drug discovery module comprising processing circuitry configured to provide a potential drug to disease link based on the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and the mapping of biomarkers to diseases using the biomarkers as a bridge between respective mappings. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface component configured to enable a user to provide a query, and to generate a response to the query, the response providing the potential drug to disease link. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the query defines a drug, a disease or a biomarker, and wherein the response defines a list of potential drug to disease links including the drug, the disease or the biomarker. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the list is defined based on the potential drug to disease links that have a composite mapping score greater than a predefined threshold. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the composite mapping score comprises a first mapping score for the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and a second mapping score for the mapping of biomarkers to diseases. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quantity. 7. The system of claim 5, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quality. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of a number of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. 9. The system of claim 7, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of an identity of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. 10. The system of claim 3, wherein the list is provided in rank order or alphabetical order. 11. The system of claim 2, wherein the system further comprises an analytics platform configured to interface with the data sources to selectively identify correlations based on analysis of contents of the data sources responsive to the query and a modeling component configured to apply a selected model, based on the query, to at least in part define the response. 12. A method of drug discovery, the method comprising:
accessing information associated with genetic markers from a data platform scalable to include a plurality of data sources, the data sources including at least a clinical research database providing results of clinical trials; employing a drug discovery module to provide a mapping of drugs to biomarkers based on the information; and employing the drug discovery module to provide a mapping of biomarkers to diseases based on the information, the drug discovery module comprising processing circuitry configured to provide a potential drug to disease link based on the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and the mapping of biomarkers to diseases using the biomarkers as a bridge between respective mappings. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising receiving a query from a user, and generating a response to the query, the response providing the potential drug to disease link. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the query defines a drug, a disease or a biomarker, and wherein the response defines a list of potential drug to disease links including the drug, the disease or the biomarker. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the list is defined based on the potential drug to disease links that have a composite mapping score greater than a predefined threshold. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the composite mapping score comprises a first mapping score for the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and a second mapping score for the mapping of biomarkers to diseases. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quantity. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quality. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of a number of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of an identity of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. | A drug discovery system may include a data platform and a drug discovery module. The data platform may be scalable to include a plurality of data sources. The data sources may include at least a clinical research database providing results of clinical trials. The drug discovery module may include a pharmaco-genomic mapper configured to provide a mapping of drugs to biomarkers based on extraction of information from the data sources, and a genome connect module configured to provide a mapping of biomarkers to diseases based on extraction of information from the data sources. The drug discovery module may include processing circuitry configured to provide a potential drug to disease link based on the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and the mapping of biomarkers to diseases using the biomarkers as a bridge.1. A drug discovery system, the system comprising:
a data platform scalable to include a plurality of data sources, the data sources including at least a clinical research database providing results of clinical trials; and a drug discovery module comprising a pharmaco-genomic mapper configured to provide a mapping of drugs to biomarkers based on extraction of information from the data sources, and a genome connect module configured to provide a mapping of biomarkers to diseases based on extraction of information from the data sources, the drug discovery module comprising processing circuitry configured to provide a potential drug to disease link based on the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and the mapping of biomarkers to diseases using the biomarkers as a bridge between respective mappings. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface component configured to enable a user to provide a query, and to generate a response to the query, the response providing the potential drug to disease link. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the query defines a drug, a disease or a biomarker, and wherein the response defines a list of potential drug to disease links including the drug, the disease or the biomarker. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the list is defined based on the potential drug to disease links that have a composite mapping score greater than a predefined threshold. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the composite mapping score comprises a first mapping score for the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and a second mapping score for the mapping of biomarkers to diseases. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quantity. 7. The system of claim 5, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quality. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of a number of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. 9. The system of claim 7, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of an identity of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. 10. The system of claim 3, wherein the list is provided in rank order or alphabetical order. 11. The system of claim 2, wherein the system further comprises an analytics platform configured to interface with the data sources to selectively identify correlations based on analysis of contents of the data sources responsive to the query and a modeling component configured to apply a selected model, based on the query, to at least in part define the response. 12. A method of drug discovery, the method comprising:
accessing information associated with genetic markers from a data platform scalable to include a plurality of data sources, the data sources including at least a clinical research database providing results of clinical trials; employing a drug discovery module to provide a mapping of drugs to biomarkers based on the information; and employing the drug discovery module to provide a mapping of biomarkers to diseases based on the information, the drug discovery module comprising processing circuitry configured to provide a potential drug to disease link based on the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and the mapping of biomarkers to diseases using the biomarkers as a bridge between respective mappings. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising receiving a query from a user, and generating a response to the query, the response providing the potential drug to disease link. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the query defines a drug, a disease or a biomarker, and wherein the response defines a list of potential drug to disease links including the drug, the disease or the biomarker. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the list is defined based on the potential drug to disease links that have a composite mapping score greater than a predefined threshold. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the composite mapping score comprises a first mapping score for the mapping of drugs to biomarkers and a second mapping score for the mapping of biomarkers to diseases. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quantity. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein at least one of the first mapping score or the second mapping score includes an indicator of data quality. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of a number of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the indicator of data quality is defined based on an assessment of an identity of biomarkers associated with the disease for which a biomarker to disease mapping is indicated in the data sources. | 3,600 |
13,382 | 13,382 | 13,442,915 | 3,624 | A method, a device, and a non-transitory storage medium provide for receiving a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system; receiving a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated; identifying types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to receiving the type of asset processing order to be generated; obtaining order data that includes a work flow identifier; obtaining asset data that includes an asset identifier and asset characteristic data; obtaining at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data; generating an asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and transmitting the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving, by a device, a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system; receiving, by the device, a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated; identifying, by the device, types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to receiving the type of asset processing order to be generated; obtaining, by the device, order data that includes a work flow identifier that identifies a process flow to be applied to the asset; obtaining, by the device, asset data that includes an asset identifier that identifies the asset and asset characteristic data that includes data that indicates one or more characteristics of the asset; obtaining, by the device, at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data, wherein the ingest data includes data indicating how the asset is to be ingested and where the asset is located, wherein the transform data includes transform instructions to be applied to the asset, and wherein the distribution data includes data indicating where the asset is to be distributed; generating, by the device, the asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and transmitting, by the device, the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the asset data includes generating the asset identifier that identifies the asset. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the ingest data includes obtaining an inbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset can be obtained, by the asset processing system, for ingestion. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the order data includes receiving user selections of account data and billing data pertaining to the use of the asset processing system. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the transform data includes a stock keeping unit specification that includes data for building a stock keeping unit pertaining to the asset and wherein the transform data includes an edit decision list that includes transform instructions. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the distribution data includes obtaining an outbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset is to be distributed. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the distribution data includes obtaining packaging instructions, wherein the packaging instructions indicate a particular stock keeping unit that is to be generated, by the asset processing system, for distribution. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
storing one or more work flow identifiers that identify one or more work flows that the asset processing system performs to an asset. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the asset includes content and metadata, and the content includes audio/visual content. 10. A device comprising:
a communication interface; a memory storing instructions; and a processor to execute the instructions to:
receive a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system;
receive a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated;
identify types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to the user selection of the type of asset processing order to be generated;
obtain order data that includes a work flow identifier that identifies a process flow to be applied to the asset;
obtain asset data that includes an asset identifier that identifies the asset and asset characteristic data that includes data that indicates one or more characteristics of the asset;
obtain at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data, wherein the ingest data includes data indicating how the asset is to be ingested and where the asset is located, wherein the transform data includes transform instructions to be applied to the asset, and wherein the distribution data includes data indicating where the asset is to be distributed;
generate the asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and
transmit, via the communication interface, the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the asset data, the processor executes the instructions to:
generate the asset characteristic data based on property information associated with the asset. 12. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the ingest data, the processor executes the instructions to:
obtain an inbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset can be obtained, by the asset processing system, for ingestion. 13. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the distribution data, the processor executes the instructions to:
provide a user interface to permit a user to enter or select an distributor identifier that identifies a distributor or a distribution device. 14. The device of claim 10, wherein the transform data includes a stock keeping unit specification that includes data for building a stock keeping unit pertaining to the asset and wherein the transform data includes an edit decision list that includes transform instructions 15. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the distribution data, the processor executes the instructions to:
obtain packaging instructions, wherein the packaging instructions indicate a particular stock keeping unit that is to be generated, by the asset processing system, for distribution. 16. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the transform data, the processor executes the instructions to:
generate a transformation identifier that identifies a transformed asset. 17. A non-transitory storage medium comprising instructions executable by a computational device, the instructions comprising instructions to:
receive a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system; receive a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated; identify types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to the user selection of the type of asset processing order to be generated; obtain order data that includes a work flow identifier that identifies a process flow to be applied to the asset; obtain asset data that includes an asset identifier that identifies the asset and asset characteristic data that includes data that indicates one or more characteristics of the asset; obtain at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data, wherein the ingest data includes data indicating how the asset is to be ingested and where the asset is located, wherein the transform data includes transform instructions to be applied to the asset, and wherein the distribution data includes data indicating where the asset is to be distributed; generate the asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and transmit the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system. 18. The non-transitory storage medium of claim 17, wherein the instructions to obtain the ingest data further comprise instructions to:
obtain an inbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset can be obtained, by the asset processing system, for ingestion. 19. The non-transitory storage medium of claim 17, wherein the transform data includes a stock keeping unit specification that includes data for building a stock keeping unit pertaining to the asset and wherein the transform data includes an edit decision list that includes transform instructions. 20. The non-transitory storage medium of claim 17, wherein the instructions to obtain the distribution data further comprise instructions to:
obtain an outbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset is to be distributed. | A method, a device, and a non-transitory storage medium provide for receiving a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system; receiving a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated; identifying types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to receiving the type of asset processing order to be generated; obtaining order data that includes a work flow identifier; obtaining asset data that includes an asset identifier and asset characteristic data; obtaining at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data; generating an asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and transmitting the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system.1. A method comprising:
receiving, by a device, a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system; receiving, by the device, a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated; identifying, by the device, types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to receiving the type of asset processing order to be generated; obtaining, by the device, order data that includes a work flow identifier that identifies a process flow to be applied to the asset; obtaining, by the device, asset data that includes an asset identifier that identifies the asset and asset characteristic data that includes data that indicates one or more characteristics of the asset; obtaining, by the device, at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data, wherein the ingest data includes data indicating how the asset is to be ingested and where the asset is located, wherein the transform data includes transform instructions to be applied to the asset, and wherein the distribution data includes data indicating where the asset is to be distributed; generating, by the device, the asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and transmitting, by the device, the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the asset data includes generating the asset identifier that identifies the asset. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the ingest data includes obtaining an inbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset can be obtained, by the asset processing system, for ingestion. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the order data includes receiving user selections of account data and billing data pertaining to the use of the asset processing system. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the transform data includes a stock keeping unit specification that includes data for building a stock keeping unit pertaining to the asset and wherein the transform data includes an edit decision list that includes transform instructions. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the distribution data includes obtaining an outbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset is to be distributed. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the distribution data includes obtaining packaging instructions, wherein the packaging instructions indicate a particular stock keeping unit that is to be generated, by the asset processing system, for distribution. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
storing one or more work flow identifiers that identify one or more work flows that the asset processing system performs to an asset. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the asset includes content and metadata, and the content includes audio/visual content. 10. A device comprising:
a communication interface; a memory storing instructions; and a processor to execute the instructions to:
receive a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system;
receive a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated;
identify types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to the user selection of the type of asset processing order to be generated;
obtain order data that includes a work flow identifier that identifies a process flow to be applied to the asset;
obtain asset data that includes an asset identifier that identifies the asset and asset characteristic data that includes data that indicates one or more characteristics of the asset;
obtain at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data, wherein the ingest data includes data indicating how the asset is to be ingested and where the asset is located, wherein the transform data includes transform instructions to be applied to the asset, and wherein the distribution data includes data indicating where the asset is to be distributed;
generate the asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and
transmit, via the communication interface, the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the asset data, the processor executes the instructions to:
generate the asset characteristic data based on property information associated with the asset. 12. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the ingest data, the processor executes the instructions to:
obtain an inbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset can be obtained, by the asset processing system, for ingestion. 13. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the distribution data, the processor executes the instructions to:
provide a user interface to permit a user to enter or select an distributor identifier that identifies a distributor or a distribution device. 14. The device of claim 10, wherein the transform data includes a stock keeping unit specification that includes data for building a stock keeping unit pertaining to the asset and wherein the transform data includes an edit decision list that includes transform instructions 15. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the distribution data, the processor executes the instructions to:
obtain packaging instructions, wherein the packaging instructions indicate a particular stock keeping unit that is to be generated, by the asset processing system, for distribution. 16. The device of claim 10, wherein, when obtaining the transform data, the processor executes the instructions to:
generate a transformation identifier that identifies a transformed asset. 17. A non-transitory storage medium comprising instructions executable by a computational device, the instructions comprising instructions to:
receive a user selection of an asset to be processed by an asset processing system; receive a user selection of a type of asset processing order to be generated; identify types of data to be obtained to generate an asset processing order, in response to the user selection of the type of asset processing order to be generated; obtain order data that includes a work flow identifier that identifies a process flow to be applied to the asset; obtain asset data that includes an asset identifier that identifies the asset and asset characteristic data that includes data that indicates one or more characteristics of the asset; obtain at least one of ingest data, transform data, or distribution data, wherein the ingest data includes data indicating how the asset is to be ingested and where the asset is located, wherein the transform data includes transform instructions to be applied to the asset, and wherein the distribution data includes data indicating where the asset is to be distributed; generate the asset processing order based on the obtained order data, the obtained asset data, and the at least one of the obtained ingest data, the obtained transform data, or the obtained distribution data; and transmit the asset processing order and the asset to the asset processing system. 18. The non-transitory storage medium of claim 17, wherein the instructions to obtain the ingest data further comprise instructions to:
obtain an inbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset can be obtained, by the asset processing system, for ingestion. 19. The non-transitory storage medium of claim 17, wherein the transform data includes a stock keeping unit specification that includes data for building a stock keeping unit pertaining to the asset and wherein the transform data includes an edit decision list that includes transform instructions. 20. The non-transitory storage medium of claim 17, wherein the instructions to obtain the distribution data further comprise instructions to:
obtain an outbound transport profile that includes transport level data and storage location data that indicates where the asset is to be distributed. | 3,600 |
13,383 | 13,383 | 12,858,912 | 3,693 | In various embodiments, test trading orders are generated, transmitted and ranked. | 1. A method for processing a test order comprising:
generating a test order for an instrument in a trader's computer system; transmitting said test order from said trader's computer system to a trading and processing computer system; ranking said test order in said trading and processing computer system; entering said test order in an order book for said instrument in said trading and processing computer system; generating a response for said test order indicating at least whether said test order executed; and transmitting said response for said test order from said trading and processing computer system to said trader's computer system. 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising executing said test order. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising canceling said test order without having executed said test order. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a real order, and, in response to said matching, executing said test order and not executing said real order. 5. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a second test order, and, in response to said matching, not executing said test order. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a second test order, and, in response to said matching, executing said test order. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising determining that said test order exceeds a risk threshold. 8. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching, executing, and transacting real orders in said trading and processing computer system. 9. The method of claim 1 further comprising determining in said trading and processing computer system that said test order is a test order. 10. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a second order;
determining if execution criteria associated with said test order are met by said second order, and if so, then executing said test order, and if not, then not executing said test order. 11. The method of claim 1 wherein said response indicates that said test order did not execute, and said response further includes information indicating time interval prior to entry of said test order in said order book of another order in said order book that could have matched said test order. 12. The method of claim 1 wherein said response indicates that said test order did not execute, and said response further includes information indicating price differential of price of said test order in said order book to another order in said order book while said test order was in said order book, said price differential and said price of said test order indicating a price at which said test order could have executed. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein said response indicates that said test order did not execute, and said response further includes information indicating risk differential of risk of said test order in said order book to another order in said order book, said risk differential and said risk of said test order indicating a risk at which said test order could have executed. | In various embodiments, test trading orders are generated, transmitted and ranked.1. A method for processing a test order comprising:
generating a test order for an instrument in a trader's computer system; transmitting said test order from said trader's computer system to a trading and processing computer system; ranking said test order in said trading and processing computer system; entering said test order in an order book for said instrument in said trading and processing computer system; generating a response for said test order indicating at least whether said test order executed; and transmitting said response for said test order from said trading and processing computer system to said trader's computer system. 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising executing said test order. 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising canceling said test order without having executed said test order. 4. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a real order, and, in response to said matching, executing said test order and not executing said real order. 5. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a second test order, and, in response to said matching, not executing said test order. 6. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a second test order, and, in response to said matching, executing said test order. 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising determining that said test order exceeds a risk threshold. 8. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching, executing, and transacting real orders in said trading and processing computer system. 9. The method of claim 1 further comprising determining in said trading and processing computer system that said test order is a test order. 10. The method of claim 1 further comprising matching said test order to a second order;
determining if execution criteria associated with said test order are met by said second order, and if so, then executing said test order, and if not, then not executing said test order. 11. The method of claim 1 wherein said response indicates that said test order did not execute, and said response further includes information indicating time interval prior to entry of said test order in said order book of another order in said order book that could have matched said test order. 12. The method of claim 1 wherein said response indicates that said test order did not execute, and said response further includes information indicating price differential of price of said test order in said order book to another order in said order book while said test order was in said order book, said price differential and said price of said test order indicating a price at which said test order could have executed. 13. The method of claim 1 wherein said response indicates that said test order did not execute, and said response further includes information indicating risk differential of risk of said test order in said order book to another order in said order book, said risk differential and said risk of said test order indicating a risk at which said test order could have executed. | 3,600 |
13,384 | 13,384 | 10,931,138 | 3,628 | An internet pricing system is provided. The system typically includes purchasing logic, a traffic gauge, and optimization logic. The purchasing logic purchases paid inclusions and keywords for a customer website on a search engine. The purchase of paid inclusions and keywords is, in some embodiments, based on a flat-fee pricing plan purchased by the customer. The traffic gauge determines the flow of traffic to the customer website and provides a feedback metric. The optimization logic receives the feedback metric, and instructs the purchasing logic to adjust the paid inclusions and the keywords in response to the feedback metric in order to meet a requisite level of traffic according to the flat-fee pricing plan. Other systems and methods are also provided. | 1. An internet pricing system, comprising:
purchasing logic operable to purchase at least one paid inclusion and at least one keyword for a customer website on at least one search engine based on a pricing plan purchased by the customer; a traffic gauge operable to determine the flow of traffic to the customer website and provide a feedback metric; and optimization logic operable to receive the feedback metric and instruct the purchasing logic to adjust at least one of said paid inclusions and keywords responsive to the feedback metric, in order to meet a requisite level of traffic according to the pricing plan purchased by the customer. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the pricing plan is a flat-fee pricing plan. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the customer can choose from any of a plurality of flat-fee pricing plans, each having a different requisite level of traffic associated with the particular plan. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the system includes a guarantee that the requisite level of traffic will be met. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein customer is provided additional advertising at no charge if the system does not meet the requisite level of traffic outlined in the pricing plan. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the additional advertising comprises at least one of additional search engine advertising services, additional print directory advertising, and additional online directory advertising services. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the optimization logic is operable to instruct the purchasing logic to remove paid inclusions responsive to the feedback metric being above a tracking target associated with the level of traffic, and to instruct the purchasing logic to add paid inclusions responsive to the feedback metric being under a tracking target associated with the level of traffic. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the purchasing logic is operable to procure advertising for a plurality of advertising media, the traffic gauge is operable to provide a feedback metric responsive to the effectiveness of the advertising, and the optimization logic is operable to instruct the purchasing logic responsive to the feedback metric. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of advertising media comprises a pull-type media and a push-type media. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the pull-type media comprises an internet search engine, and at least one of an online directory, a print directory, and operator services. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the push-type media comprises at least one of newspaper advertisement, a television advertisement, a mailing, a billboard and a radio advertisement. 12. A method for providing pricing on the internet, the method comprising the steps of:
purchasing at least one paid inclusion and at least one keyword for a customer website on at least one search engine responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flowing to the customer website; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said at least one paid inclusion and said at least one keyword responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level that is approximately the target traffic level. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pricing plan is a fixed-fee pricing plan. 14. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of providing a plurality of flat-fee pricing plans to the customer, each of the flat-fee pricing plans having a different target traffic level. 15. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of guaranteeing that the actual traffic level will meet a requisite traffic level associated with the pricing plan. 16. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of providing additional advertising at no extra cost to the customer if the actual traffic level does not meet a requisite traffic level associated with the pricing plan. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the additional advertising comprises at least one of additional search engine advertising services, additional print directory advertising, and additional online directory advertising services. 18. The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of:
purchasing advertising in a plurality of advertising media responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flow to the customer resulting from the advertising in the plurality of advertising media; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said advertising responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level which is approximately the target traffic level. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the plurality of advertising media comprises a pull-type media and a push-type media. 20. A computer readable medium having a program for providing an internet search engine pricing plan for a customer, the program operable to perform the steps of:
purchasing at least one paid inclusion and at least one keyword for a customer website on at least one search engine responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flowing to the customer website; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said at least one paid inclusion and said at least one keyword responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level which is approximately the target traffic level. 21. The computer readable medium of claim 20, wherein the pricing plan is a flat-fee pricing plan. 22. The computer readable medium of claim 20, where the program is further operable to perform the step of guaranteeing that the actual traffic level will meet a requisite traffic level associated with the pricing plan. 23. The computer readable medium of claim 20, where the program is further operable to perform the steps of:
purchasing advertising in a plurality of advertising media responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flow to the customer resulting from the advertising in the plurality of advertising media; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said advertising responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level which is approximately the target traffic level. | An internet pricing system is provided. The system typically includes purchasing logic, a traffic gauge, and optimization logic. The purchasing logic purchases paid inclusions and keywords for a customer website on a search engine. The purchase of paid inclusions and keywords is, in some embodiments, based on a flat-fee pricing plan purchased by the customer. The traffic gauge determines the flow of traffic to the customer website and provides a feedback metric. The optimization logic receives the feedback metric, and instructs the purchasing logic to adjust the paid inclusions and the keywords in response to the feedback metric in order to meet a requisite level of traffic according to the flat-fee pricing plan. Other systems and methods are also provided.1. An internet pricing system, comprising:
purchasing logic operable to purchase at least one paid inclusion and at least one keyword for a customer website on at least one search engine based on a pricing plan purchased by the customer; a traffic gauge operable to determine the flow of traffic to the customer website and provide a feedback metric; and optimization logic operable to receive the feedback metric and instruct the purchasing logic to adjust at least one of said paid inclusions and keywords responsive to the feedback metric, in order to meet a requisite level of traffic according to the pricing plan purchased by the customer. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the pricing plan is a flat-fee pricing plan. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the customer can choose from any of a plurality of flat-fee pricing plans, each having a different requisite level of traffic associated with the particular plan. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the system includes a guarantee that the requisite level of traffic will be met. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein customer is provided additional advertising at no charge if the system does not meet the requisite level of traffic outlined in the pricing plan. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the additional advertising comprises at least one of additional search engine advertising services, additional print directory advertising, and additional online directory advertising services. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the optimization logic is operable to instruct the purchasing logic to remove paid inclusions responsive to the feedback metric being above a tracking target associated with the level of traffic, and to instruct the purchasing logic to add paid inclusions responsive to the feedback metric being under a tracking target associated with the level of traffic. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the purchasing logic is operable to procure advertising for a plurality of advertising media, the traffic gauge is operable to provide a feedback metric responsive to the effectiveness of the advertising, and the optimization logic is operable to instruct the purchasing logic responsive to the feedback metric. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of advertising media comprises a pull-type media and a push-type media. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the pull-type media comprises an internet search engine, and at least one of an online directory, a print directory, and operator services. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the push-type media comprises at least one of newspaper advertisement, a television advertisement, a mailing, a billboard and a radio advertisement. 12. A method for providing pricing on the internet, the method comprising the steps of:
purchasing at least one paid inclusion and at least one keyword for a customer website on at least one search engine responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flowing to the customer website; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said at least one paid inclusion and said at least one keyword responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level that is approximately the target traffic level. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pricing plan is a fixed-fee pricing plan. 14. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of providing a plurality of flat-fee pricing plans to the customer, each of the flat-fee pricing plans having a different target traffic level. 15. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of guaranteeing that the actual traffic level will meet a requisite traffic level associated with the pricing plan. 16. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of providing additional advertising at no extra cost to the customer if the actual traffic level does not meet a requisite traffic level associated with the pricing plan. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the additional advertising comprises at least one of additional search engine advertising services, additional print directory advertising, and additional online directory advertising services. 18. The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of:
purchasing advertising in a plurality of advertising media responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flow to the customer resulting from the advertising in the plurality of advertising media; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said advertising responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level which is approximately the target traffic level. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the plurality of advertising media comprises a pull-type media and a push-type media. 20. A computer readable medium having a program for providing an internet search engine pricing plan for a customer, the program operable to perform the steps of:
purchasing at least one paid inclusion and at least one keyword for a customer website on at least one search engine responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flowing to the customer website; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said at least one paid inclusion and said at least one keyword responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level which is approximately the target traffic level. 21. The computer readable medium of claim 20, wherein the pricing plan is a flat-fee pricing plan. 22. The computer readable medium of claim 20, where the program is further operable to perform the step of guaranteeing that the actual traffic level will meet a requisite traffic level associated with the pricing plan. 23. The computer readable medium of claim 20, where the program is further operable to perform the steps of:
purchasing advertising in a plurality of advertising media responsive to a target traffic level associated with a pricing plan purchased by the customer; monitoring traffic flow to the customer resulting from the advertising in the plurality of advertising media; providing a feedback metric based on the traffic flow; and adjusting said advertising responsive to the feedback metric so as to provide an actual traffic level which is approximately the target traffic level. | 3,600 |
13,385 | 13,385 | 14,478,420 | 3,625 | An example system in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure includes a framework to demonstrate and/or train at least one live product. The framework includes a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step. The system also includes at least one script to perform at least one task associated with the at least one step. The at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework. | 1. A computing system comprising:
a framework engine to provide a framework to demonstrate at least one live product that is executable independent from the framework engine, wherein the framework includes a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step, and wherein the framework is a self-contained application that is to enable user interaction with the at least one live product independent of the at least one step; and at least one script, responsive to the framework and executable by a script engine, to perform at least one task associated with the at least one step, wherein the at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework. 2. The computing system of claim 1, further comprising a framework control file accessed by the framework to designate attributes of the framework, including at least one of a script, a step, and a substep. 3. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the at least one step of the first panel is associated with at least one of a substep, text, an executable script element, and an executable program. 4. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the first panel includes at least one navigation element that is selectable to navigate through the at least one step. 5. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to change the content displayed in the second panel. 6. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to perform window process management to operate a window handle of the at least one live product. 7. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to automatically test for a presence of a window of the at least one live product, and if not present, cause the at least one live product to launch the window. 8. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to automatically test for at least one attribute of a window of the at least one live product, and if the at least one attribute is not consistent with a next step, the framework is to manipulate the window of the at least one live product to be consistent with the at least one attribute. 9. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the second panel includes at least one hole that is positionable by the framework to frame at least a portion of the at least one live product to be shown through the hole. 10. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the first panel is displayable on a first display screen, and the second panel is displayable on a second display screen separate from the first display screen. 11. The computing system of claim 1, further comprising a third panel associated with at least one feature, wherein a feature is associated with a corresponding at least one step, wherein the framework is to highlight the feature in response to a step corresponding to the feature being active, and wherein the feature is to serve as a link to navigate to a first step of the at least one step corresponding to the feature. 12. A method, comprising:
demonstrating, by a framework engine, at least one live product based on a framework including a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step, wherein the at least one live product is installable independent from the framework engine; manipulating, by the framework engine, the at least one live product in response to the at least one step; enabling, by the framework engine, user interaction with the at least one live product independent of the at least one step; and performing, by a script engine, at least one task associated with the at least one step, wherein the at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising checking, by the framework engine, attributes of the at least one live product in response to executing the at least one step, and manipulating the attributes of the at least one live product consistent with demonstrating features corresponding to the following at least one step. 14. A non-transitory machine-readable storage media encoded with instructions executable by a computing system that, when executed, cause the computing system to:
demonstrate, by a framework engine, at least one live product based on a framework including a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step, wherein the at least one live product is unmodified in view of interacting with the framework engine; enable, by the framework engine, user interaction with the at least one live product independent of the at least one step; and perform, by a script engine, at least one task associated with the at least one step, wherein the at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework. 15. The storage media of claim 14, wherein the framework includes a third panel associated with at least one feature, wherein a feature is associated with a corresponding at least one step, wherein the storage media further comprises instructions that cause the computing system to highlight the feature in response to a step corresponding to the feature being active, and navigate to a first step of the at least one step corresponding to the feature in response to selecting the feature. | An example system in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure includes a framework to demonstrate and/or train at least one live product. The framework includes a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step. The system also includes at least one script to perform at least one task associated with the at least one step. The at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework.1. A computing system comprising:
a framework engine to provide a framework to demonstrate at least one live product that is executable independent from the framework engine, wherein the framework includes a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step, and wherein the framework is a self-contained application that is to enable user interaction with the at least one live product independent of the at least one step; and at least one script, responsive to the framework and executable by a script engine, to perform at least one task associated with the at least one step, wherein the at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework. 2. The computing system of claim 1, further comprising a framework control file accessed by the framework to designate attributes of the framework, including at least one of a script, a step, and a substep. 3. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the at least one step of the first panel is associated with at least one of a substep, text, an executable script element, and an executable program. 4. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the first panel includes at least one navigation element that is selectable to navigate through the at least one step. 5. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to change the content displayed in the second panel. 6. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to perform window process management to operate a window handle of the at least one live product. 7. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to automatically test for a presence of a window of the at least one live product, and if not present, cause the at least one live product to launch the window. 8. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the framework is responsive to the at least one script to perform the at least one task to automatically test for at least one attribute of a window of the at least one live product, and if the at least one attribute is not consistent with a next step, the framework is to manipulate the window of the at least one live product to be consistent with the at least one attribute. 9. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the second panel includes at least one hole that is positionable by the framework to frame at least a portion of the at least one live product to be shown through the hole. 10. The computing system of claim 1, wherein the first panel is displayable on a first display screen, and the second panel is displayable on a second display screen separate from the first display screen. 11. The computing system of claim 1, further comprising a third panel associated with at least one feature, wherein a feature is associated with a corresponding at least one step, wherein the framework is to highlight the feature in response to a step corresponding to the feature being active, and wherein the feature is to serve as a link to navigate to a first step of the at least one step corresponding to the feature. 12. A method, comprising:
demonstrating, by a framework engine, at least one live product based on a framework including a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step, wherein the at least one live product is installable independent from the framework engine; manipulating, by the framework engine, the at least one live product in response to the at least one step; enabling, by the framework engine, user interaction with the at least one live product independent of the at least one step; and performing, by a script engine, at least one task associated with the at least one step, wherein the at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising checking, by the framework engine, attributes of the at least one live product in response to executing the at least one step, and manipulating the attributes of the at least one live product consistent with demonstrating features corresponding to the following at least one step. 14. A non-transitory machine-readable storage media encoded with instructions executable by a computing system that, when executed, cause the computing system to:
demonstrate, by a framework engine, at least one live product based on a framework including a first panel associated with at least one step, and a second panel to display content and at least a portion of the at least one live product according to the at least one step, wherein the at least one live product is unmodified in view of interacting with the framework engine; enable, by the framework engine, user interaction with the at least one live product independent of the at least one step; and perform, by a script engine, at least one task associated with the at least one step, wherein the at least one step is performable independent of an order in which the at least one step is presented by the framework. 15. The storage media of claim 14, wherein the framework includes a third panel associated with at least one feature, wherein a feature is associated with a corresponding at least one step, wherein the storage media further comprises instructions that cause the computing system to highlight the feature in response to a step corresponding to the feature being active, and navigate to a first step of the at least one step corresponding to the feature in response to selecting the feature. | 3,600 |
13,386 | 13,386 | 13,554,323 | 3,686 | A process is provided for gaining third party authorization for a medical intervention for a patient. The process includes a dialogue between a user and a computer, facilitated by an algorithm in the computer. A user enters into the computer medical information about the patient and an authorization request for a medical intervention for the patient. The algorithm generates one or more questions responsive to the information and authorization request, directed to refining an assessment of whether the medical intervention is indicated. The user enters into the computer one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions. The algorithm generates feedback responsive to the one or more answers. The feedback instructs the user as to whether or not the medical intervention is indicated. The algorithm permits the user to withdraw the request throughout the process but ultimately grants the request if the user does not withdraw the request. | 1. A process for gaining insurance authorization or other third party authorization for a prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for a patient, the process including a dialogue between a user and a computer, the dialogue being facilitated by an algorithm contained in the computer, the process comprising the steps of:
the user's entry into the computer of medical information about the patient and an authorization request for a specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for the patient; the algorithm's generation of one or more questions responsive to the information and authorization request, directed to refining an assessment of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated; the user's entry into the computer of one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions; and the algorithm's generation of feedback responsive to the one or more answers, the feedback instructing the user as to whether or not the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, wherein the algorithm permits the user to withdraw the authorization request throughout the process but ultimately grants the authorization request if the user does not withdraw the authorization request, irrespective of whether or not the algorithm instructs the user that the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, the computer maintaining a record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request, the record factoring into a performance metric that reflects the user's medical decision-making prowess. 2. The process of claim 1, wherein the user is a physician or a physician's designee. 3. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm comprises artificial intelligence and natural language processing. 4. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm informs the user that the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request factors into the performance metric. 5. The process of claim 1, wherein the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is a radiology test. 6. The process of claim 1, wherein the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is a pharmaceutical drug. 7. The process of claim 1, wherein the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is selected from the group consisting of: referral of patients to specialists; referral of patients to non-physician professionals; elective surgical procedures; elective minimally invasive non-surgical procedures; and non-emergency basis procedures. 8. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm grants the authorization request, thereby obligating an insurance company or other third party payer to pay at least a portion of costs associated with the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care. 9. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm makes a determination of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated based on the one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions. 10. The process of claim 9, the computer maintaining a record of the determination. 11. The process of claim 10, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request with the record of the determination. 12. The process of claim 10, the computer compiling a plurality of records of determinations and a plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the plurality of records of determinations with the plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests. 13. The process of claim 11 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. 14. The process of claim 12 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. 15. A process for gaining third party payment authorization for a prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for a patient, the process including a dialogue between a user and a computer, the dialogue being facilitated by an algorithm contained in the computer, the process comprising the steps of:
the user's entry into the computer of medical information about the patient and an authorization request for a specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for the patient; the algorithm's generation of one or more questions responsive to the information and authorization request, directed to refining an assessment of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated; the user's entry into the computer of one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions; and the algorithm's generation of feedback responsive to the one or more answers, the feedback instructing the user as to whether or not the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, wherein the algorithm permits the user to withdraw the authorization request throughout the process but ultimately grants the authorization request if the user does not withdraw the authorization request, irrespective of whether or not the algorithm instructs the user that the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, the computer maintaining a record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request, the record factoring into a performance metric that reflects the user's medical decision-making prowess, wherein a granting of the authorization request obligates a third party payer to pay at least a portion of costs associated with the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care. 16. The process of claim 15, wherein the algorithm makes a determination of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated based on the one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions. 17. The process of claim 16, the computer maintaining a record of the determination. 18. The process of claim 17, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request with the record of the determination. 19. The process of claim 17, the computer compiling a plurality of records of determinations and a plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the plurality of records of determinations with the plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests. 20. The process of claim 18 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. 21. The process of claim 19 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. | A process is provided for gaining third party authorization for a medical intervention for a patient. The process includes a dialogue between a user and a computer, facilitated by an algorithm in the computer. A user enters into the computer medical information about the patient and an authorization request for a medical intervention for the patient. The algorithm generates one or more questions responsive to the information and authorization request, directed to refining an assessment of whether the medical intervention is indicated. The user enters into the computer one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions. The algorithm generates feedback responsive to the one or more answers. The feedback instructs the user as to whether or not the medical intervention is indicated. The algorithm permits the user to withdraw the request throughout the process but ultimately grants the request if the user does not withdraw the request.1. A process for gaining insurance authorization or other third party authorization for a prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for a patient, the process including a dialogue between a user and a computer, the dialogue being facilitated by an algorithm contained in the computer, the process comprising the steps of:
the user's entry into the computer of medical information about the patient and an authorization request for a specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for the patient; the algorithm's generation of one or more questions responsive to the information and authorization request, directed to refining an assessment of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated; the user's entry into the computer of one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions; and the algorithm's generation of feedback responsive to the one or more answers, the feedback instructing the user as to whether or not the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, wherein the algorithm permits the user to withdraw the authorization request throughout the process but ultimately grants the authorization request if the user does not withdraw the authorization request, irrespective of whether or not the algorithm instructs the user that the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, the computer maintaining a record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request, the record factoring into a performance metric that reflects the user's medical decision-making prowess. 2. The process of claim 1, wherein the user is a physician or a physician's designee. 3. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm comprises artificial intelligence and natural language processing. 4. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm informs the user that the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request factors into the performance metric. 5. The process of claim 1, wherein the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is a radiology test. 6. The process of claim 1, wherein the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is a pharmaceutical drug. 7. The process of claim 1, wherein the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is selected from the group consisting of: referral of patients to specialists; referral of patients to non-physician professionals; elective surgical procedures; elective minimally invasive non-surgical procedures; and non-emergency basis procedures. 8. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm grants the authorization request, thereby obligating an insurance company or other third party payer to pay at least a portion of costs associated with the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care. 9. The process of claim 1, wherein the algorithm makes a determination of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated based on the one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions. 10. The process of claim 9, the computer maintaining a record of the determination. 11. The process of claim 10, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request with the record of the determination. 12. The process of claim 10, the computer compiling a plurality of records of determinations and a plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the plurality of records of determinations with the plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests. 13. The process of claim 11 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. 14. The process of claim 12 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. 15. A process for gaining third party payment authorization for a prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for a patient, the process including a dialogue between a user and a computer, the dialogue being facilitated by an algorithm contained in the computer, the process comprising the steps of:
the user's entry into the computer of medical information about the patient and an authorization request for a specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care for the patient; the algorithm's generation of one or more questions responsive to the information and authorization request, directed to refining an assessment of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated; the user's entry into the computer of one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions; and the algorithm's generation of feedback responsive to the one or more answers, the feedback instructing the user as to whether or not the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, wherein the algorithm permits the user to withdraw the authorization request throughout the process but ultimately grants the authorization request if the user does not withdraw the authorization request, irrespective of whether or not the algorithm instructs the user that the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated, the computer maintaining a record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request, the record factoring into a performance metric that reflects the user's medical decision-making prowess, wherein a granting of the authorization request obligates a third party payer to pay at least a portion of costs associated with the prescribed mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care. 16. The process of claim 15, wherein the algorithm makes a determination of whether the specific mode of diagnostic testing or therapeutic medical care is indicated based on the one or more answers responsive to the one or more questions. 17. The process of claim 16, the computer maintaining a record of the determination. 18. The process of claim 17, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the record of the user's decision to withdraw or persist with the authorization request with the record of the determination. 19. The process of claim 17, the computer compiling a plurality of records of determinations and a plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests, the performance metric comprising a comparison of the plurality of records of determinations with the plurality of associated records of decisions of the user to withdraw or persist with authorization requests. 20. The process of claim 18 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. 21. The process of claim 19 wherein the performance metric is provided to at least one insurance company or other third-party payer. | 3,600 |
13,387 | 13,387 | 13,853,387 | 3,691 | A method of processing a transaction includes receiving a site location code. Site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code is received from a database. That information includes more product record(s), each corresponding to a reservable product or a non-reservable product. A selection of one or more of the product records in the retrieved information is received. If any selected product record corresponds to a reservable product, a reservation command is produced. That command requests reservation of selected reservable product(s). A method of selecting a product includes receiving a location input and determining a site location code with it. The site location code is transmitted and one or more product records are received. Representations of one or more of the received product records are presented and a selection of products is received. An indication of the selection is transmitted. | 1. A method of processing a transaction at a fueling station, said method comprising:
at a transaction gateway component comprising a processor and a computer readable medium: receiving a site location code; accessing a database in response to the site location code; receiving site configuration information found in the database, the site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code, wherein the site configuration information comprises a product record that relates to a product, and wherein the product record comprises data that assigns the product in the product record a reservable product identifier or a non-reservable product identifier; receiving a product selection that identifies the product record in the retrieved site configuration information; and generating an output comprising a reservation command with data to reserve the product with the reservable product identifier. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving the site location code from a terminal, wherein the product selection arises from the terminal; and transmitting the retrieved site configuration information to the terminal. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the terminal is a portable computing device. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting the reservation command to a component at a retail fueling station. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the component is a forecourt controller component. 6. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
receiving a payment-authorization notification corresponding to the selected product record(s); and generating a payment authorization corresponding to the payment-authorization notification. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising transmitting the payment authorization to the forecourt controller component. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a transaction-complete notification in response to the reservation command; and generating a transaction completion message in response to the transaction-complete notification. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising transmitting the transaction completion message to a payment provider. 10. The method of claim 8, further comprising receiving a payment-complete notification in response to the transaction completion message. 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a reference site location code and reference site configuration information corresponding to the location identified by the reference site location code; and storing the received reference site location code and reference site configuration information in the database. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the product is a car wash. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the product dispenser is a fuel dispenser. 14. A transaction gateway component, comprising:
a processor; a computer-readable medium coupled with the processor; and one or more executable instructions stored in the computer-readable medium and configured to be executed by the processor, the executable instruction comprising instructions for:
receiving a site location code;
accessing a database in response to the site location code;
receiving site configuration information found in the database, the site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code, wherein the site configuration information comprises a product record that relates to a product, and wherein the product record comprises data that assigns the product in the product record a reservable product identifier or a non-reservable product identifier;
receiving a product selection that identifies the product record in the retrieved site configuration information; and
generating an output comprising a reservation command with data to reserve the product with the reservable product identifier. 15. The transaction gateway component of claim 14, further comprising:
receiving the site location code from a terminal, wherein the product selection arises from the terminal; and transmitting the retrieved site configuration information to the terminal. 16. The transaction gateway component of claim 14, wherein the executable instruction comprise instruction for:
receiving a transaction-complete notification in response to the reservation command; and generating a transaction completion message in response to the transaction-complete notification. 17. The transaction gateway component of claim 14, wherein the executable instruction include instruction for:
receiving a reference site location code and reference site configuration information corresponding to the location identified by the reference site location code; and storing the received reference site location code and reference site configuration information in the database. 18. A system, comprising:
a forecourt controller component; a transaction gateway component coupled with and remote from the forecourt controller, the transaction gateway component comprising executable instructions for:
receiving a site location code;
accessing a database in response to the site location code;
receiving site configuration information found in the database, the site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code, wherein the site configuration information comprises a product record that relates to a product, and wherein the product record comprises data that assigns the product in the product record a reservable product identifier or a non-reservable product identifier;
receiving a product selection that identifies the product record in the retrieved site configuration information; and
generating an output comprising a reservation command with data to reserve the product with the reservable product identifier. 19. The system of claim 18, further comprising a fuel dispenser coupled with the forecourt controller component, wherein a terminal 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the product comprises a car wash. | A method of processing a transaction includes receiving a site location code. Site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code is received from a database. That information includes more product record(s), each corresponding to a reservable product or a non-reservable product. A selection of one or more of the product records in the retrieved information is received. If any selected product record corresponds to a reservable product, a reservation command is produced. That command requests reservation of selected reservable product(s). A method of selecting a product includes receiving a location input and determining a site location code with it. The site location code is transmitted and one or more product records are received. Representations of one or more of the received product records are presented and a selection of products is received. An indication of the selection is transmitted.1. A method of processing a transaction at a fueling station, said method comprising:
at a transaction gateway component comprising a processor and a computer readable medium: receiving a site location code; accessing a database in response to the site location code; receiving site configuration information found in the database, the site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code, wherein the site configuration information comprises a product record that relates to a product, and wherein the product record comprises data that assigns the product in the product record a reservable product identifier or a non-reservable product identifier; receiving a product selection that identifies the product record in the retrieved site configuration information; and generating an output comprising a reservation command with data to reserve the product with the reservable product identifier. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving the site location code from a terminal, wherein the product selection arises from the terminal; and transmitting the retrieved site configuration information to the terminal. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the terminal is a portable computing device. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting the reservation command to a component at a retail fueling station. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the component is a forecourt controller component. 6. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
receiving a payment-authorization notification corresponding to the selected product record(s); and generating a payment authorization corresponding to the payment-authorization notification. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising transmitting the payment authorization to the forecourt controller component. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a transaction-complete notification in response to the reservation command; and generating a transaction completion message in response to the transaction-complete notification. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising transmitting the transaction completion message to a payment provider. 10. The method of claim 8, further comprising receiving a payment-complete notification in response to the transaction completion message. 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
receiving a reference site location code and reference site configuration information corresponding to the location identified by the reference site location code; and storing the received reference site location code and reference site configuration information in the database. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the product is a car wash. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the product dispenser is a fuel dispenser. 14. A transaction gateway component, comprising:
a processor; a computer-readable medium coupled with the processor; and one or more executable instructions stored in the computer-readable medium and configured to be executed by the processor, the executable instruction comprising instructions for:
receiving a site location code;
accessing a database in response to the site location code;
receiving site configuration information found in the database, the site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code, wherein the site configuration information comprises a product record that relates to a product, and wherein the product record comprises data that assigns the product in the product record a reservable product identifier or a non-reservable product identifier;
receiving a product selection that identifies the product record in the retrieved site configuration information; and
generating an output comprising a reservation command with data to reserve the product with the reservable product identifier. 15. The transaction gateway component of claim 14, further comprising:
receiving the site location code from a terminal, wherein the product selection arises from the terminal; and transmitting the retrieved site configuration information to the terminal. 16. The transaction gateway component of claim 14, wherein the executable instruction comprise instruction for:
receiving a transaction-complete notification in response to the reservation command; and generating a transaction completion message in response to the transaction-complete notification. 17. The transaction gateway component of claim 14, wherein the executable instruction include instruction for:
receiving a reference site location code and reference site configuration information corresponding to the location identified by the reference site location code; and storing the received reference site location code and reference site configuration information in the database. 18. A system, comprising:
a forecourt controller component; a transaction gateway component coupled with and remote from the forecourt controller, the transaction gateway component comprising executable instructions for:
receiving a site location code;
accessing a database in response to the site location code;
receiving site configuration information found in the database, the site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code, wherein the site configuration information comprises a product record that relates to a product, and wherein the product record comprises data that assigns the product in the product record a reservable product identifier or a non-reservable product identifier;
receiving a product selection that identifies the product record in the retrieved site configuration information; and
generating an output comprising a reservation command with data to reserve the product with the reservable product identifier. 19. The system of claim 18, further comprising a fuel dispenser coupled with the forecourt controller component, wherein a terminal 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the product comprises a car wash. | 3,600 |
13,388 | 13,388 | 12,092,099 | 3,686 | A method of clinical workflow management and decision making comprises receiving clinical information from a hospital information system ( 100 ), combining and reconciling the clinical information for use during management of a particular clinical problem of a patient under consideration, and providing access to the combined and reconciled clinical information via a graphical user interface ( 200 ) that comprises a plurality of interactive display regions ( 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 ). Combining and reconciling the clinical information ( 102 ) comprises repeatedly analyzing the clinical information for: (a) determining an overview of clinical actions as a function of the clinical information, (b) examining whether clinical actions adhere to a predetermined protocol, the predetermined protocol including (i) one or more ideal clinical actions and (ii) a timing for an occurrence of the one or more ideal clinical actions as a function of the clinical information and the particular clinical problem, and (c) determining suggested next step information suitable for use in assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers in conjunction with treatment of the particular clinical problem. | 1. A method of clinical workflow management and decision making comprising:
receiving clinical information from a hospital information system, the clinical information including a variety of information relevant to management of a particular clinical problem of a patient under consideration; combining and reconciling the clinical information for use during the management of the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration, wherein the combining and reconciling comprises repeatedly analyzing the clinical information for: (a) determining an overview of clinical actions as a function of the clinical information, (b) examining whether clinical actions adhere to a predetermined protocol, the predetermined protocol including (i) one or more ideal clinical actions and (ii) a timing for an occurrence of the one or more ideal clinical actions as a function of the clinical information and the particular clinical problem, and (c) determining suggested next step information suitable for use in assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers in conjunction with treatment of the particular clinical problem, and providing access to the combined and reconciled clinical information via a graphical user interface that comprises a plurality of interactive display regions. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of interactive display regions comprise:
(i) a protocol and time map region for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow representative of the predetermined protocol, wherein the clinical workflow has been reconciled as a function of the overview of clinical actions, the protocol and time map region further for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow time map, wherein the time map includes a correlation between a progression of the clinical workflow with (a) a time that has elapsed from a symptom onset of the particular clinical problem and (b) a time that is remaining within a period of time for treatment of the particular clinical problem, (ii) a clinical findings region for providing a log of clinical findings, events, and actions pertinent to the particular clinical problem, wherein the clinical findings, events, and actions are based upon the clinical information, (iii) a differential diagnosis region for providing a representation of probabilities for one or more differential diagnoses as a function of currently available clinical information, and (iv) a suggested next step region for providing the suggested next step information having been determined to assist with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the plurality of interactive display regions further comprise:
a high-level patient data overview region for providing important information about the patient under consideration, wherein the important information includes the patient's name, gender, information from which the patient's age can be discerned, and the patient's current physical location, and wherein the high-level patient data overview region is further for providing a graphical bar representation of a time since onset of an event giving rise to the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the plurality of interactive display regions further comprise:
an explanation region for providing an explanation for a given suggested next step, the explanation including a description of a reasoning behind the given suggested next step derived from an underlying decision support module, wherein the explanation within the explanation region is provided in response to activation via an explain button, wherein the explain button is provided with the corresponding suggested next step information within the suggested next step region. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the receiving clinical information includes one selected from the group consisting of (i) receiving from one or more source internal to the hospital information system and (ii) receiving from one or more source external to the hospital information system. 6. The method of claim 5, further wherein receiving from one or more source internal to the hospital information system includes receiving clinical information from one selected from the group consisting of (a) a workflow/guideline management system, (b) a decision support module, (c) an electronic patient record system, and (d) a system user device, and further wherein receiving from one or more source external to the hospital information system includes receiving clinical information from a remote device. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein repeatedly analyzing the clinical information includes continuously analyzing the clinical information throughout at least a critical portion of treatment of the particular clinical problem. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the clinical actions comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of (a) clinical actions performed, (b) clinical actions currently being to performed, and (c) clinical actions yet to be performed. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more healthcare providers include at least one selected from the group consisting of a doctor, nurse, healthcare professional, and healthcare assistant. 10. The method of claim 2, wherein the protocol and time map region further highlights an adherence to time constraints of the clinical workflow by horizontally aligning one or more individual steps of the clinical workflow with a corresponding time on the time map. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the protocol and time map region further provides, in connection with the time map, a visualization of a deviation of a current step from its ideal timing in the clinical workflow. 12. The method of claim 2, wherein each row of the log of clinical findings, events, and actions provides an indication of a date and time, a description, results, and an identification of a party that performed a corresponding one of the clinical findings, events, and actions, further wherein entries within the log of clinical findings, events, and actions are internally tagged by definable categories to enable filtering of the entries using a corresponding tab for a desired one of the categories, and still further wherein the definable categories include one or more selected from the group consisting of history, physical, medical, laboratory, images, ECGs, and orders. 13. The method of claim 2, wherein the differential diagnosis region lists possible diagnoses vertically, wherein each diagnosis is identified by its name and a bar having a length representative of a current probability of the corresponding diagnosis. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein a diagnosis can further be structured hierarchically into a set of sub-diagnoses that are graphically accounted for by one of expanding or collapsing a diagnosis in a tree-view like manner. 15. The method of claim 2, wherein the suggested next step information comprises one selected from the group consisting of (a) a suggested next action derived from a current state of execution of the clinical workflow and currently available clinical information, and (b) a suggested next action resulting from a query to a decision support module in connection with a differential diagnosis of the differential diagnosis region, the query configured for finding one or more suitable diagnostic steps to discriminate between multiple differential diagnoses. 16. The method of claim 2, wherein suggested next step information is presented in one or more rows characterized by a description of an action of a corresponding next step, identification of a party responsible for performing the action of the corresponding next step, and a check mark box, wherein an occurrence of a check mark within the check mark box indicates that the corresponding next step has been completed. 17. The method of claim 16, further wherein completed steps of the suggested next step information are modified in a manner to visually indicate completion of the same. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the suggested next step information further includes an optional button that, in response to being selected, executes a corresponding action of the suggested next step automatically. 19. A computer program product comprising computer readable media having a set of instructions that are executable by a computer, wherein the instructions are configured for carrying out clinical workflow management and decision making according to the method of claim 1. 20. A clinical workflow management and decision making system comprising:
an input for receiving clinical information from a hospital information system, the clinical information including a variety of information relevant to management of a particular clinical problem of a patient under consideration; a processor for combining and reconciling the clinical information for use during the management of the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration, wherein the combining and reconciling comprises repeatedly analyzing the clinical information for: (a) determining an overview of clinical actions as a function of the clinical information, (b) examining whether clinical actions adhere to a predetermined protocol, the predetermined protocol including (i) one or more ideal clinical actions and (ii) a timing for an occurrence of the one or more ideal clinical actions as a function of the clinical information and the particular clinical problem, and (c) determining suggested next step information suitable for use in assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers in conjunction with treatment of the particular clinical problem, and a graphical user interface for providing access to the combined and reconciled clinical information, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a plurality of interactive display regions that comprise: (i) a protocol and time map region for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow representative of the predetermined protocol, wherein the clinical workflow has been reconciled as a function of the overview of clinical actions, the protocol and time map region further for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow time map, wherein the time map includes a correlation between a progression of the clinical workflow with (a) a time that has elapsed from a symptom onset of the particular clinical problem and (b) a time that is remaining within a period of time for treatment of the particular clinical problem, (ii) a clinical findings region for providing a log of clinical findings, events, and actions pertinent to the particular clinical problem, wherein the clinical findings, events, and actions are based upon the clinical information, (iii) a differential diagnosis region for providing a representation of probabilities for one or more differential diagnoses as a function of currently available clinical information, (iv) a suggested next step region for providing the suggested next step information having been determined to assist with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers, and (v) a high-level patient data overview region for providing important information about the patient under consideration, wherein the important information includes the patient's name, gender, information from which the patient's age can be discerned, and the patient's current physical location, the high-level patient data overview region further for providing a graphical bar representation of a time since onset of an event giving rise to the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration. | A method of clinical workflow management and decision making comprises receiving clinical information from a hospital information system ( 100 ), combining and reconciling the clinical information for use during management of a particular clinical problem of a patient under consideration, and providing access to the combined and reconciled clinical information via a graphical user interface ( 200 ) that comprises a plurality of interactive display regions ( 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 ). Combining and reconciling the clinical information ( 102 ) comprises repeatedly analyzing the clinical information for: (a) determining an overview of clinical actions as a function of the clinical information, (b) examining whether clinical actions adhere to a predetermined protocol, the predetermined protocol including (i) one or more ideal clinical actions and (ii) a timing for an occurrence of the one or more ideal clinical actions as a function of the clinical information and the particular clinical problem, and (c) determining suggested next step information suitable for use in assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers in conjunction with treatment of the particular clinical problem.1. A method of clinical workflow management and decision making comprising:
receiving clinical information from a hospital information system, the clinical information including a variety of information relevant to management of a particular clinical problem of a patient under consideration; combining and reconciling the clinical information for use during the management of the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration, wherein the combining and reconciling comprises repeatedly analyzing the clinical information for: (a) determining an overview of clinical actions as a function of the clinical information, (b) examining whether clinical actions adhere to a predetermined protocol, the predetermined protocol including (i) one or more ideal clinical actions and (ii) a timing for an occurrence of the one or more ideal clinical actions as a function of the clinical information and the particular clinical problem, and (c) determining suggested next step information suitable for use in assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers in conjunction with treatment of the particular clinical problem, and providing access to the combined and reconciled clinical information via a graphical user interface that comprises a plurality of interactive display regions. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of interactive display regions comprise:
(i) a protocol and time map region for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow representative of the predetermined protocol, wherein the clinical workflow has been reconciled as a function of the overview of clinical actions, the protocol and time map region further for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow time map, wherein the time map includes a correlation between a progression of the clinical workflow with (a) a time that has elapsed from a symptom onset of the particular clinical problem and (b) a time that is remaining within a period of time for treatment of the particular clinical problem, (ii) a clinical findings region for providing a log of clinical findings, events, and actions pertinent to the particular clinical problem, wherein the clinical findings, events, and actions are based upon the clinical information, (iii) a differential diagnosis region for providing a representation of probabilities for one or more differential diagnoses as a function of currently available clinical information, and (iv) a suggested next step region for providing the suggested next step information having been determined to assist with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the plurality of interactive display regions further comprise:
a high-level patient data overview region for providing important information about the patient under consideration, wherein the important information includes the patient's name, gender, information from which the patient's age can be discerned, and the patient's current physical location, and wherein the high-level patient data overview region is further for providing a graphical bar representation of a time since onset of an event giving rise to the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration. 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the plurality of interactive display regions further comprise:
an explanation region for providing an explanation for a given suggested next step, the explanation including a description of a reasoning behind the given suggested next step derived from an underlying decision support module, wherein the explanation within the explanation region is provided in response to activation via an explain button, wherein the explain button is provided with the corresponding suggested next step information within the suggested next step region. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the receiving clinical information includes one selected from the group consisting of (i) receiving from one or more source internal to the hospital information system and (ii) receiving from one or more source external to the hospital information system. 6. The method of claim 5, further wherein receiving from one or more source internal to the hospital information system includes receiving clinical information from one selected from the group consisting of (a) a workflow/guideline management system, (b) a decision support module, (c) an electronic patient record system, and (d) a system user device, and further wherein receiving from one or more source external to the hospital information system includes receiving clinical information from a remote device. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein repeatedly analyzing the clinical information includes continuously analyzing the clinical information throughout at least a critical portion of treatment of the particular clinical problem. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the clinical actions comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of (a) clinical actions performed, (b) clinical actions currently being to performed, and (c) clinical actions yet to be performed. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more healthcare providers include at least one selected from the group consisting of a doctor, nurse, healthcare professional, and healthcare assistant. 10. The method of claim 2, wherein the protocol and time map region further highlights an adherence to time constraints of the clinical workflow by horizontally aligning one or more individual steps of the clinical workflow with a corresponding time on the time map. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the protocol and time map region further provides, in connection with the time map, a visualization of a deviation of a current step from its ideal timing in the clinical workflow. 12. The method of claim 2, wherein each row of the log of clinical findings, events, and actions provides an indication of a date and time, a description, results, and an identification of a party that performed a corresponding one of the clinical findings, events, and actions, further wherein entries within the log of clinical findings, events, and actions are internally tagged by definable categories to enable filtering of the entries using a corresponding tab for a desired one of the categories, and still further wherein the definable categories include one or more selected from the group consisting of history, physical, medical, laboratory, images, ECGs, and orders. 13. The method of claim 2, wherein the differential diagnosis region lists possible diagnoses vertically, wherein each diagnosis is identified by its name and a bar having a length representative of a current probability of the corresponding diagnosis. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein a diagnosis can further be structured hierarchically into a set of sub-diagnoses that are graphically accounted for by one of expanding or collapsing a diagnosis in a tree-view like manner. 15. The method of claim 2, wherein the suggested next step information comprises one selected from the group consisting of (a) a suggested next action derived from a current state of execution of the clinical workflow and currently available clinical information, and (b) a suggested next action resulting from a query to a decision support module in connection with a differential diagnosis of the differential diagnosis region, the query configured for finding one or more suitable diagnostic steps to discriminate between multiple differential diagnoses. 16. The method of claim 2, wherein suggested next step information is presented in one or more rows characterized by a description of an action of a corresponding next step, identification of a party responsible for performing the action of the corresponding next step, and a check mark box, wherein an occurrence of a check mark within the check mark box indicates that the corresponding next step has been completed. 17. The method of claim 16, further wherein completed steps of the suggested next step information are modified in a manner to visually indicate completion of the same. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the suggested next step information further includes an optional button that, in response to being selected, executes a corresponding action of the suggested next step automatically. 19. A computer program product comprising computer readable media having a set of instructions that are executable by a computer, wherein the instructions are configured for carrying out clinical workflow management and decision making according to the method of claim 1. 20. A clinical workflow management and decision making system comprising:
an input for receiving clinical information from a hospital information system, the clinical information including a variety of information relevant to management of a particular clinical problem of a patient under consideration; a processor for combining and reconciling the clinical information for use during the management of the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration, wherein the combining and reconciling comprises repeatedly analyzing the clinical information for: (a) determining an overview of clinical actions as a function of the clinical information, (b) examining whether clinical actions adhere to a predetermined protocol, the predetermined protocol including (i) one or more ideal clinical actions and (ii) a timing for an occurrence of the one or more ideal clinical actions as a function of the clinical information and the particular clinical problem, and (c) determining suggested next step information suitable for use in assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers in conjunction with treatment of the particular clinical problem, and a graphical user interface for providing access to the combined and reconciled clinical information, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a plurality of interactive display regions that comprise: (i) a protocol and time map region for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow representative of the predetermined protocol, wherein the clinical workflow has been reconciled as a function of the overview of clinical actions, the protocol and time map region further for providing a graphical representation of a clinical workflow time map, wherein the time map includes a correlation between a progression of the clinical workflow with (a) a time that has elapsed from a symptom onset of the particular clinical problem and (b) a time that is remaining within a period of time for treatment of the particular clinical problem, (ii) a clinical findings region for providing a log of clinical findings, events, and actions pertinent to the particular clinical problem, wherein the clinical findings, events, and actions are based upon the clinical information, (iii) a differential diagnosis region for providing a representation of probabilities for one or more differential diagnoses as a function of currently available clinical information, (iv) a suggested next step region for providing the suggested next step information having been determined to assist with diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to be made by one or more healthcare providers, and (v) a high-level patient data overview region for providing important information about the patient under consideration, wherein the important information includes the patient's name, gender, information from which the patient's age can be discerned, and the patient's current physical location, the high-level patient data overview region further for providing a graphical bar representation of a time since onset of an event giving rise to the particular clinical problem of the patient under consideration. | 3,600 |
13,389 | 13,389 | 15,686,395 | 3,651 | A conveying system transports items, such as postal items, along a main conveying direction. A conveying route includes segments that are arranged one behind the other along the main conveying direction. The segments have conveyors arranged parallel to one another and the segments are offset relative to one another in a transverse direction. The conveyors are driven and activated individually by a control unit. The items are conveyed along the main conveying direction by transferring an item from a preceding segment to a following segment that is offset relative to the preceding segment and then transporting the item on the following segment. Items with small dimensions, which rest on just one conveyor can also be manipulated during the transportation. | 1. A conveying system for transporting items to be conveyed along a main conveying direction, the conveying system comprising:
a control unit; a conveying route formed of a plurality of segments; said segments being arranged one behind another along the main conveying direction and said segments being offset relative to one another perpendicularly to the main conveying direction; each of said segments including a plurality of conveyors arranged substantially in parallel with one another and configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction; and said conveyors being connected to said control unit and individually driven and individually activated by said control unit. 2. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein said conveyors comprise conveyor belts and the system is configured for transporting postal items. 3. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein a segment comprises one or more conveyors, which are configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction. 4. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein said segments are offset relative to one another transversely to the main conveying direction in that said conveyors of adjacent said segments are offset relative to one another. 5. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein a respective said conveyor of a preceding segment is aligned to lead into two or more said conveyors of a following segment. 6. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein one or more segments comprise similar conveyors. 7. The conveying system according to claim 1, which further comprises at least one sensor configured to detect at least one of a position or an alignment of the items to be conveyed and wherein said control unit is configured to activate said conveyors in response to a detected position and/or alignment of the items to be conveyed. 8. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein said control unit is configured to rotate and/or singulate items to be conveyed by controlling a conveying speed of said conveyors. 9. The conveying system according to claim 8, wherein said control unit is configured to selectively control the conveying speed of said conveyors on which the item to be conveyed rests and/or directly adjacent said conveyors. 10. A method for transporting items to be conveyed along a conveying route of a conveying system, wherein:
the conveying route is formed of segments that are arranged one behind another along a main conveying direction; the segments having conveyors arranged substantially in parallel with one another and being configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction; the method comprising: individually driving and activating the conveyors; and a) transporting an item to be conveyed on a preceding segment; b) transferring the item to be conveyed along the main conveying direction from the preceding segment to a following segment that is offset relative to preceding segment; and c) transporting the item to be conveyed on the following segment. 11. The method according to claim 10, which comprises transporting postal items along conveyors in the form of conveyor belts. 12. The method according to claim 10, wherein a segment comprises one or more conveyors configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction. 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the following segment is offset relative to the preceding segment in that the conveyors of the following segment are offset relative to the conveyors of the preceding segment. 14. The method according to claim 12, wherein a respective conveyor of the preceding segment leads into two or more conveyors of the following segment. 15. The method according to claim 10, wherein the conveyors of mutually adjacent segments are arranged such that an item to be conveyed is transferred from one conveyor of the preceding segment to two conveyors of the following segment. 16. The method according to claim 10, which comprises detecting a position and/or alignment of the items to be conveyed on the conveying system and activating the conveyors in response to the detected position and/or alignment of the items to be conveyed. 17. The method according to claim 10, which comprises rotating and/or separating the items to be conveyed by controlling a conveying speed of the conveyors. 18. The method according to claim 17, which comprises controlling the conveying speed of the conveyors on which the items to be conveyed rest, and/or the directly adjacent conveyors. 19. The method according to claim 10, which comprises transferring the items from one preceding segment to a following segment by involving two or more conveyors. | A conveying system transports items, such as postal items, along a main conveying direction. A conveying route includes segments that are arranged one behind the other along the main conveying direction. The segments have conveyors arranged parallel to one another and the segments are offset relative to one another in a transverse direction. The conveyors are driven and activated individually by a control unit. The items are conveyed along the main conveying direction by transferring an item from a preceding segment to a following segment that is offset relative to the preceding segment and then transporting the item on the following segment. Items with small dimensions, which rest on just one conveyor can also be manipulated during the transportation.1. A conveying system for transporting items to be conveyed along a main conveying direction, the conveying system comprising:
a control unit; a conveying route formed of a plurality of segments; said segments being arranged one behind another along the main conveying direction and said segments being offset relative to one another perpendicularly to the main conveying direction; each of said segments including a plurality of conveyors arranged substantially in parallel with one another and configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction; and said conveyors being connected to said control unit and individually driven and individually activated by said control unit. 2. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein said conveyors comprise conveyor belts and the system is configured for transporting postal items. 3. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein a segment comprises one or more conveyors, which are configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction. 4. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein said segments are offset relative to one another transversely to the main conveying direction in that said conveyors of adjacent said segments are offset relative to one another. 5. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein a respective said conveyor of a preceding segment is aligned to lead into two or more said conveyors of a following segment. 6. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein one or more segments comprise similar conveyors. 7. The conveying system according to claim 1, which further comprises at least one sensor configured to detect at least one of a position or an alignment of the items to be conveyed and wherein said control unit is configured to activate said conveyors in response to a detected position and/or alignment of the items to be conveyed. 8. The conveying system according to claim 1, wherein said control unit is configured to rotate and/or singulate items to be conveyed by controlling a conveying speed of said conveyors. 9. The conveying system according to claim 8, wherein said control unit is configured to selectively control the conveying speed of said conveyors on which the item to be conveyed rests and/or directly adjacent said conveyors. 10. A method for transporting items to be conveyed along a conveying route of a conveying system, wherein:
the conveying route is formed of segments that are arranged one behind another along a main conveying direction; the segments having conveyors arranged substantially in parallel with one another and being configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction; the method comprising: individually driving and activating the conveyors; and a) transporting an item to be conveyed on a preceding segment; b) transferring the item to be conveyed along the main conveying direction from the preceding segment to a following segment that is offset relative to preceding segment; and c) transporting the item to be conveyed on the following segment. 11. The method according to claim 10, which comprises transporting postal items along conveyors in the form of conveyor belts. 12. The method according to claim 10, wherein a segment comprises one or more conveyors configured to transport the items to be conveyed along the main conveying direction. 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the following segment is offset relative to the preceding segment in that the conveyors of the following segment are offset relative to the conveyors of the preceding segment. 14. The method according to claim 12, wherein a respective conveyor of the preceding segment leads into two or more conveyors of the following segment. 15. The method according to claim 10, wherein the conveyors of mutually adjacent segments are arranged such that an item to be conveyed is transferred from one conveyor of the preceding segment to two conveyors of the following segment. 16. The method according to claim 10, which comprises detecting a position and/or alignment of the items to be conveyed on the conveying system and activating the conveyors in response to the detected position and/or alignment of the items to be conveyed. 17. The method according to claim 10, which comprises rotating and/or separating the items to be conveyed by controlling a conveying speed of the conveyors. 18. The method according to claim 17, which comprises controlling the conveying speed of the conveyors on which the items to be conveyed rest, and/or the directly adjacent conveyors. 19. The method according to claim 10, which comprises transferring the items from one preceding segment to a following segment by involving two or more conveyors. | 3,600 |
13,390 | 13,390 | 14,635,321 | 3,669 | A system may include an in-vehicle component, including a first control set to configure the component, configured to identify a device associated with a user approach to the component; and send an interaction request to the device to cause the device to display a user interface for the component including a second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. A personal device may receive, from an in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the component, a user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the component; and receive, from the component, a request to display a user interface for the component including the second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. | 1. A system comprising:
an in-vehicle component, including a first control set to configure the component, configured to
identify a device associated with a user approach to the component; and
send an interaction request to the device to cause the device to display a user interface for the component including a second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the second control set is a superset of the first control set. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the in-vehicle component includes a proximity sensor, and the device associated with the user approach to the component is detected according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of the device detected according to the proximity sensor. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the in-vehicle component includes a proximity sensor, and the device associated with the user approach to the component is detected according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of a wearable device paired to the device detected according to the proximity sensor. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the in-vehicle component includes a sensor configured to identify the user approach despite no increasing wireless signal intensity from the device. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the sensor is one of a touch sensor and a proximity sensor. 7. The system of claim 5, wherein the in-vehicle component is further configured to, responsive to the user approach with no increasing wireless signal intensity:
receive wireless signal intensity information for in-vehicle devices from other proximity sensors of the vehicle; and identify the device from the one of the in-vehicle devices as the one of the in-vehicle devices having a highest wireless signal strength at the in-vehicle component compared to the wireless signal strength for the identified device at the other proximity sensors of the vehicle. 8. A system comprising:
a personal device, configured to
receive, from an in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the component, a user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the component; and
receive, from the component, a request to display a user interface for the component including the second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the personal device is further configured to:
display the user interface; receive a user interaction to the user interface requesting a function from the second control set; and send a request to the component to perform the function from the second control set. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the personal device is further configured to:
receive, from a second in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the second component, a second user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the second component; and aggregate the user interface definition and the second user interface definition to combine, in the user interface, functions in common between the user interface definition and the second user interface definition. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the personal device is further configured to request the user interface definition descriptive of the second control set from the in-vehicle component, responsive to connection of the personal device to the in-vehicle component. 12. The system of claim 8, wherein the personal device is further configured to receive the request to display the user interface for the component responsive to at least one of: (i) a user approach to the component detected, by the component, according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of the device, and (ii) a user approach to the component detected, by the component, according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of a wearable device paired to the device; and (iii) a user approach to one of a touch sensor and a proximity sensor of the component, despite no increasing wireless signal intensity from the device or the wearable device detected by the component. 13. The system of claim 8, wherein the user interface definition is encoded using at least one of: (i) hypertext markup language (HTML), (ii) extensible markup language (XML), (iii) JavaScript Object Notation (JSON), and (iV) view and viewgroup user interface definitions. 14. The system of claim 8, wherein the user interface definition includes at least two of: (i) attributes descriptive of available control functions, (ii) names for presentation of attributes of the functions in the user interface, (iii) allowed ranges of values for the attributes, (iv) layout information descriptive of grouping and ordering of the control functions, and (v) suggested controls to use to display the control functions in the user interface. 15. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving, by a personal device from an in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the component, a user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the component; and receiving, from the component, a request to display a user interface for the component including the second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising:
displaying the user interface; receiving a user interaction to the user interface requesting a function from the second control set; and sending a request to the component to perform the function from the second control set. 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising:
receiving, from a second in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the second component, a second user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the second component; and aggregating the user interface definition and the second user interface definition to combine, in the user interface, functions in common between the user interface definition and the second user interface definition. 18. The method of claim 15, further comprising requesting the user interface definition descriptive of the second control set from the in-vehicle component, responsive to connection of the personal device to the in-vehicle component. | A system may include an in-vehicle component, including a first control set to configure the component, configured to identify a device associated with a user approach to the component; and send an interaction request to the device to cause the device to display a user interface for the component including a second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. A personal device may receive, from an in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the component, a user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the component; and receive, from the component, a request to display a user interface for the component including the second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set.1. A system comprising:
an in-vehicle component, including a first control set to configure the component, configured to
identify a device associated with a user approach to the component; and
send an interaction request to the device to cause the device to display a user interface for the component including a second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the second control set is a superset of the first control set. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the in-vehicle component includes a proximity sensor, and the device associated with the user approach to the component is detected according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of the device detected according to the proximity sensor. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the in-vehicle component includes a proximity sensor, and the device associated with the user approach to the component is detected according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of a wearable device paired to the device detected according to the proximity sensor. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the in-vehicle component includes a sensor configured to identify the user approach despite no increasing wireless signal intensity from the device. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the sensor is one of a touch sensor and a proximity sensor. 7. The system of claim 5, wherein the in-vehicle component is further configured to, responsive to the user approach with no increasing wireless signal intensity:
receive wireless signal intensity information for in-vehicle devices from other proximity sensors of the vehicle; and identify the device from the one of the in-vehicle devices as the one of the in-vehicle devices having a highest wireless signal strength at the in-vehicle component compared to the wireless signal strength for the identified device at the other proximity sensors of the vehicle. 8. A system comprising:
a personal device, configured to
receive, from an in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the component, a user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the component; and
receive, from the component, a request to display a user interface for the component including the second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the personal device is further configured to:
display the user interface; receive a user interaction to the user interface requesting a function from the second control set; and send a request to the component to perform the function from the second control set. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the personal device is further configured to:
receive, from a second in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the second component, a second user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the second component; and aggregate the user interface definition and the second user interface definition to combine, in the user interface, functions in common between the user interface definition and the second user interface definition. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the personal device is further configured to request the user interface definition descriptive of the second control set from the in-vehicle component, responsive to connection of the personal device to the in-vehicle component. 12. The system of claim 8, wherein the personal device is further configured to receive the request to display the user interface for the component responsive to at least one of: (i) a user approach to the component detected, by the component, according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of the device, and (ii) a user approach to the component detected, by the component, according to an increasing wireless signal intensity of a wearable device paired to the device; and (iii) a user approach to one of a touch sensor and a proximity sensor of the component, despite no increasing wireless signal intensity from the device or the wearable device detected by the component. 13. The system of claim 8, wherein the user interface definition is encoded using at least one of: (i) hypertext markup language (HTML), (ii) extensible markup language (XML), (iii) JavaScript Object Notation (JSON), and (iV) view and viewgroup user interface definitions. 14. The system of claim 8, wherein the user interface definition includes at least two of: (i) attributes descriptive of available control functions, (ii) names for presentation of attributes of the functions in the user interface, (iii) allowed ranges of values for the attributes, (iv) layout information descriptive of grouping and ordering of the control functions, and (v) suggested controls to use to display the control functions in the user interface. 15. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving, by a personal device from an in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the component, a user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the component; and receiving, from the component, a request to display a user interface for the component including the second control set to configure the component, the second control set including at least one function unavailable in the first control set. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising:
displaying the user interface; receiving a user interaction to the user interface requesting a function from the second control set; and sending a request to the component to perform the function from the second control set. 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising:
receiving, from a second in-vehicle component including a first control set to configure the second component, a second user interface definition descriptive of a second control set to configure the second component; and aggregating the user interface definition and the second user interface definition to combine, in the user interface, functions in common between the user interface definition and the second user interface definition. 18. The method of claim 15, further comprising requesting the user interface definition descriptive of the second control set from the in-vehicle component, responsive to connection of the personal device to the in-vehicle component. | 3,600 |
13,391 | 13,391 | 13,620,510 | 3,625 | A method and apparatus is disclosed that provides an Internet wish list for deferred purchasing. A user clicks on an add to wish list button located on locations, such as, a product page, a banner ad, or search results to add an item to the wish list. A reminder system is used to remind a user to purchase an item at a future time. The shopping list service may be integrated at a high level of integration and a low level of integration. On a low level of integration a proxy platform is used to add functionality to a website. | 1. An apparatus for providing an Internet shopping list service comprising:
a shopping list capable of containing items from at least two websites, retained on a computer memory; a computer for adding and subtracting at least one item on said shopping list; buttons for adding and subtracting said item onto, and off of, said shopping list; and a connection for connecting said computer onto said Internet. 2-31. (canceled) | A method and apparatus is disclosed that provides an Internet wish list for deferred purchasing. A user clicks on an add to wish list button located on locations, such as, a product page, a banner ad, or search results to add an item to the wish list. A reminder system is used to remind a user to purchase an item at a future time. The shopping list service may be integrated at a high level of integration and a low level of integration. On a low level of integration a proxy platform is used to add functionality to a website.1. An apparatus for providing an Internet shopping list service comprising:
a shopping list capable of containing items from at least two websites, retained on a computer memory; a computer for adding and subtracting at least one item on said shopping list; buttons for adding and subtracting said item onto, and off of, said shopping list; and a connection for connecting said computer onto said Internet. 2-31. (canceled) | 3,600 |
13,392 | 13,392 | 12,368,747 | 3,681 | An apparatus comprising a controller configured to provide a first advertisement statement; receive a motion signal; and provide a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal is provided. | 1. An apparatus comprising a controller configured to:
provide a first advertisement statement, receive a motion signal, and provide a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. 2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said controller is further configured to provide said advertisement statement as graphic data. 3. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said controller is further configured to provide said advertisement statement as audio data. 4. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said motion signal represents a shaking gesture. 5. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said motion signal represents a threshold being exceeded by the sum of amplitudes of gestures over a time. 6. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first advertisement statement is related to a first context and said second advertisement statement is related to said first context. 7. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said first context is related to one of the items in a group comprising: speed of travel, direction of travel, capabilities, network capabilities and time displayed for related advertisements. 8. A method for providing an advertisement comprising
providing a first advertisement statement, receiving a motion signal, and providing a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. 9. A method according to claim 8 further comprising providing said advertisement statement as graphic data. 10. A method according to claim 8 further comprising providing said advertisement statement as audio data. 11. A method according to claim 8, wherein said motion signal represents a shaking gesture. 12. A method according to claim 8, wherein said motion signal represents a threshold being exceeded by the sum of amplitudes of gestures over a time. 13. A method according to claim 8, wherein said first advertisement statement is related to a first context and said second advertisement statement is related to said first context. 14. A method according to claim 13, wherein said first context is related to one of the items in a group comprising: speed of travel, direction of travel, capabilities, network capabilities and time displayed for related advertisements. 15. An apparatus comprising means for
providing a first advertisement statement, means for receiving a motion signal, and means for providing a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. 16. A computer readable medium comprising software code for
providing a first advertisement statement, software code for receiving a motion signal, and software code for providing a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. | An apparatus comprising a controller configured to provide a first advertisement statement; receive a motion signal; and provide a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal is provided.1. An apparatus comprising a controller configured to:
provide a first advertisement statement, receive a motion signal, and provide a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. 2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said controller is further configured to provide said advertisement statement as graphic data. 3. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said controller is further configured to provide said advertisement statement as audio data. 4. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said motion signal represents a shaking gesture. 5. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said motion signal represents a threshold being exceeded by the sum of amplitudes of gestures over a time. 6. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first advertisement statement is related to a first context and said second advertisement statement is related to said first context. 7. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said first context is related to one of the items in a group comprising: speed of travel, direction of travel, capabilities, network capabilities and time displayed for related advertisements. 8. A method for providing an advertisement comprising
providing a first advertisement statement, receiving a motion signal, and providing a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. 9. A method according to claim 8 further comprising providing said advertisement statement as graphic data. 10. A method according to claim 8 further comprising providing said advertisement statement as audio data. 11. A method according to claim 8, wherein said motion signal represents a shaking gesture. 12. A method according to claim 8, wherein said motion signal represents a threshold being exceeded by the sum of amplitudes of gestures over a time. 13. A method according to claim 8, wherein said first advertisement statement is related to a first context and said second advertisement statement is related to said first context. 14. A method according to claim 13, wherein said first context is related to one of the items in a group comprising: speed of travel, direction of travel, capabilities, network capabilities and time displayed for related advertisements. 15. An apparatus comprising means for
providing a first advertisement statement, means for receiving a motion signal, and means for providing a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. 16. A computer readable medium comprising software code for
providing a first advertisement statement, software code for receiving a motion signal, and software code for providing a second advertisement statement in response to receipt of said motion signal. | 3,600 |
13,393 | 13,393 | 14,453,547 | 3,694 | Methods and apparatuses are provided for facilitating fairnetting and the distribution of currency trades. In one example, the method may include: (i) estimating non-provided trade information for each trade type of aggregated sets of trades of a plurality of trades using a market mid-rate; (ii) determining a netted amount and a market amount to transact based on received trade information and the estimated non-provided trade information; (iii) executing one or more trades for the market amount at a market rate; and (iv) distributing the market amount and the netted amount proportionally amongst the plurality of trades. | 1. An exchange system, comprising:
a reception module configured to receive trade information describing one or more trades to be executed; a trade organization module configured to organize the one or more trades by currency pairs; and a trade netting module configured to:
generate a plurality of netting plans, wherein each netting plan offsets at least one trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs against at least one other trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs to reduce the value of a market trade related to the one or more trades, and
estimate, for each netting plan, a total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the netting plan. 2. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein the reception module is further configured to receive a selection of a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 3. The exchange system of claim 2, wherein the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the first netting plan is lower than the total costs associated with executing the one or more trades according to a second netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 4. The exchange system of claim 3, further comprising a trade execution module that is configured to execute the market trade based on the first netting plan. 5. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a simple netting plan that:
nets all buy base trades included in the one or more trades against all sell base trades included in the one or more trades; and nets all buy term trades included in the one or more trades against all sell term trades included in the one or more trades. 6. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base amount expressed in a base currency of a currency pair; identifies a second trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the second trade specifies a term amount expressed in a term currency of the currency pair; generates a third trade that includes an estimated base amount expressed in the base currency corresponding to the term amount of the second trade; and nets the first trade against the third trade. 7. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term plus cross-currency netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base currency and a term currency of a first currency pair; splits the first trade into a second trade for a second currency pair associated with the base currency and an intermediate currency and a third trade for a third currency pair associated with the intermediate currency and the term currency; and nets at least one of:
the second trade against a fourth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fourth trade corresponds to the second currency pair; and
the third trade against a fifth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fifth trade corresponds to the third currency pair. 8. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein the trade netting module is further configured to:
obtain current market rates associated with the one or more trades as the market rates change; and update the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades estimated for each netting plan based on based on the current market rates. 9. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to:
receive trade information describing one or more trades to be executed; organize the one or more trades by currency pairs; and generate a plurality of netting plans, wherein each netting plan offsets at least one trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs against at least one other trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs to reduce the value of a market trade related to the one or more trades, and estimate, for each netting plan, a total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the netting plan. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to receive a selection of a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the first netting plan is lower than the total costs associated with executing the one or more trades according to a second netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 11, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to execute the market trade based on the first netting plan. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a simple netting plan that:
nets all buy base trades included in the one or more trades against all sell base trades included in the one or more trades; and nets all buy term trades included in the one or more trades against all sell term trades included in the one or more trades. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base amount expressed in a base currency of a currency pair; identifies a second trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the second trade specifies a term amount expressed in a term currency of the currency pair; generates a third trade that includes an estimated base amount expressed in the base currency corresponding to the term amount of the second trade; and nets the first trade against the third trade. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term plus cross-currency netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base currency and a term currency of a first currency pair; splits the first trade into a second trade for a second currency pair associated with the base currency and an intermediate currency and a third trade for a third currency pair associated with the intermediate currency and the term currency; and nets at least one of:
the second trade against a fourth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fourth trade corresponds to the second currency pair; and
the third trade against a fifth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fifth trade corresponds to the third currency pair. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to:
obtain current market rates associated with the one or more trades as the market rates change; and update the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades estimated for each netting plan based on based on the current market rates. 17. An exchange system, comprising:
a reception module configured to receive a request from a user device to roll a spot rate transaction associated with a current value date forward to a future value date; and a trade execution module configured to:
generate a swap transaction associated with the future date that includes a front leg transaction and a back leg transaction,
fix a near rate associated with the front leg transaction such that no residual component remains after executing the spot rate transaction and the front leg transaction, and
transmit, to a provider device, at least one of a first quote request for the spot rate transaction, a second quote request for the front leg transaction based on the fixed near rate, and a third quote request for the back leg transaction. 18. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the reception module is further configured to receive a quote for at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction from the provider device. 19. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the trade execution module is further configured to execute at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction. 20. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the trade execution module is further configured to cause adjusted forward points associated with the back leg transaction to be calculated. 21. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the trade execution module is further configured to cause a far rate associated with the back leg transaction to be calculated. 22. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to:
receive a request from a user device to roll a spot rate transaction associated with a current value date forward to a future value date; and generate a swap transaction associated with the future date that includes a front leg transaction and a back leg transaction, fix a near rate associated with the front leg transaction such that no residual component remains after executing the spot rate transaction and the front leg transaction, and transmit, to a provider device, at least one of a first quote request for the spot rate transaction, a second quote request for the front leg transaction based on the fixed near rate, and a third quote request for the back leg transaction. 23. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to receive a quote for at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction from the provider device. 24. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to execute at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction. 25. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to calculate adjusted forward points associated with the back leg transaction. 26. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to calculate a far rate associated with the back leg transaction. | Methods and apparatuses are provided for facilitating fairnetting and the distribution of currency trades. In one example, the method may include: (i) estimating non-provided trade information for each trade type of aggregated sets of trades of a plurality of trades using a market mid-rate; (ii) determining a netted amount and a market amount to transact based on received trade information and the estimated non-provided trade information; (iii) executing one or more trades for the market amount at a market rate; and (iv) distributing the market amount and the netted amount proportionally amongst the plurality of trades.1. An exchange system, comprising:
a reception module configured to receive trade information describing one or more trades to be executed; a trade organization module configured to organize the one or more trades by currency pairs; and a trade netting module configured to:
generate a plurality of netting plans, wherein each netting plan offsets at least one trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs against at least one other trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs to reduce the value of a market trade related to the one or more trades, and
estimate, for each netting plan, a total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the netting plan. 2. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein the reception module is further configured to receive a selection of a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 3. The exchange system of claim 2, wherein the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the first netting plan is lower than the total costs associated with executing the one or more trades according to a second netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 4. The exchange system of claim 3, further comprising a trade execution module that is configured to execute the market trade based on the first netting plan. 5. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a simple netting plan that:
nets all buy base trades included in the one or more trades against all sell base trades included in the one or more trades; and nets all buy term trades included in the one or more trades against all sell term trades included in the one or more trades. 6. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base amount expressed in a base currency of a currency pair; identifies a second trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the second trade specifies a term amount expressed in a term currency of the currency pair; generates a third trade that includes an estimated base amount expressed in the base currency corresponding to the term amount of the second trade; and nets the first trade against the third trade. 7. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term plus cross-currency netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base currency and a term currency of a first currency pair; splits the first trade into a second trade for a second currency pair associated with the base currency and an intermediate currency and a third trade for a third currency pair associated with the intermediate currency and the term currency; and nets at least one of:
the second trade against a fourth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fourth trade corresponds to the second currency pair; and
the third trade against a fifth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fifth trade corresponds to the third currency pair. 8. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein the trade netting module is further configured to:
obtain current market rates associated with the one or more trades as the market rates change; and update the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades estimated for each netting plan based on based on the current market rates. 9. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to:
receive trade information describing one or more trades to be executed; organize the one or more trades by currency pairs; and generate a plurality of netting plans, wherein each netting plan offsets at least one trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs against at least one other trade included in the one or more trades organized by currency pairs to reduce the value of a market trade related to the one or more trades, and estimate, for each netting plan, a total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the netting plan. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to receive a selection of a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 11. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades according to the first netting plan is lower than the total costs associated with executing the one or more trades according to a second netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans. 12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 11, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to execute the market trade based on the first netting plan. 13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a simple netting plan that:
nets all buy base trades included in the one or more trades against all sell base trades included in the one or more trades; and nets all buy term trades included in the one or more trades against all sell term trades included in the one or more trades. 14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base amount expressed in a base currency of a currency pair; identifies a second trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the second trade specifies a term amount expressed in a term currency of the currency pair; generates a third trade that includes an estimated base amount expressed in the base currency corresponding to the term amount of the second trade; and nets the first trade against the third trade. 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein a first netting plan included in the plurality of netting plans comprises a base/term plus cross-currency netting plan that:
identifies a first trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the first trade specifies a base currency and a term currency of a first currency pair; splits the first trade into a second trade for a second currency pair associated with the base currency and an intermediate currency and a third trade for a third currency pair associated with the intermediate currency and the term currency; and nets at least one of:
the second trade against a fourth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fourth trade corresponds to the second currency pair; and
the third trade against a fifth trade included in the one or more trades, wherein the fifth trade corresponds to the third currency pair. 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to:
obtain current market rates associated with the one or more trades as the market rates change; and update the total cost associated with executing the one or more trades estimated for each netting plan based on based on the current market rates. 17. An exchange system, comprising:
a reception module configured to receive a request from a user device to roll a spot rate transaction associated with a current value date forward to a future value date; and a trade execution module configured to:
generate a swap transaction associated with the future date that includes a front leg transaction and a back leg transaction,
fix a near rate associated with the front leg transaction such that no residual component remains after executing the spot rate transaction and the front leg transaction, and
transmit, to a provider device, at least one of a first quote request for the spot rate transaction, a second quote request for the front leg transaction based on the fixed near rate, and a third quote request for the back leg transaction. 18. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the reception module is further configured to receive a quote for at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction from the provider device. 19. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the trade execution module is further configured to execute at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction. 20. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the trade execution module is further configured to cause adjusted forward points associated with the back leg transaction to be calculated. 21. The exchange system of claim 17, wherein the trade execution module is further configured to cause a far rate associated with the back leg transaction to be calculated. 22. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to:
receive a request from a user device to roll a spot rate transaction associated with a current value date forward to a future value date; and generate a swap transaction associated with the future date that includes a front leg transaction and a back leg transaction, fix a near rate associated with the front leg transaction such that no residual component remains after executing the spot rate transaction and the front leg transaction, and transmit, to a provider device, at least one of a first quote request for the spot rate transaction, a second quote request for the front leg transaction based on the fixed near rate, and a third quote request for the back leg transaction. 23. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to receive a quote for at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction from the provider device. 24. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to execute at least one of the spot transaction, the front leg transaction, and the back leg transaction. 25. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to calculate adjusted forward points associated with the back leg transaction. 26. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, further storing program instructions that, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to calculate a far rate associated with the back leg transaction. | 3,600 |
13,394 | 13,394 | 15,337,943 | 3,661 | The disclosure is directed to systems and methods for applying fire retardant using aerial vehicles. More particularly, the disclosure is directed to systems and methods for applying fire retardant using onboard sensing and decision making processes with application of the fire retardant using aerial vehicles. | 1. A system, comprising:
a plurality of sensors provided on an aerial aircraft to sense weather, terrain, and fire characteristics; and a controller to determine optimal location of application of fire retardant based on the weather, terrain and fire characteristics. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors include fire hot spot sensors. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the fire hot spot sensors include at least one of infrared (IR) cameras and Electro Optical Sensors (EO) onboard the aerial vehicle. 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of sensors include terrain sensors. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the terrain sensors include at least one of RADAR, LIDAR, Acoustic Ranging and Radar Altimeters. 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of sensors include environmental sensors. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the environmental sensors include wind, temperature, and moisture content sensors. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the controller and plurality of sensors communicate with a guidance system. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the guidance system is an onboard guidance system. 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the guidance system is an off board guidance system. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of sensors communicate with ground based systems. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the aerial vehicle is an unmanned aerial vehicle and the plurality of sensors includes multi-spectral sensing capabilities. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the aerial vehicle is a manned aerial vehicle. 14. A system, comprising:
a plurality of sensors encompassing multi-spectral sensing capabilities of external environmental conditions, provided on an aerial aircraft; and a controller to determine optimal location of application of fire retardant based on the external environmental conditions as sensed by the plurality of sensors. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors sense weather, terrain, and fire characteristics and the controller determines optimal location of application of fire retardant based on the weather, terrain and fire characteristics. 16. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors include fire hot spot sensors comprising at least one of infrared (IR) cameras and Electro Optical Sensors (EO) onboard the aerial vehicle. 17. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors include terrain sensors including at least one of RADAR, LIDAR, Acoustic Ranging and Radar Altimeters. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors include at least one of wind, temperature, and moisture content sensors. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein at least one of the controller and plurality of sensors communicate with an onboard guidance system which directs the aerial aircraft to a general location of the wildfire and the location to release the fire retardant. 20. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of sensors communicate with ground based systems to coordinate ground efforts to control the wildfire. | The disclosure is directed to systems and methods for applying fire retardant using aerial vehicles. More particularly, the disclosure is directed to systems and methods for applying fire retardant using onboard sensing and decision making processes with application of the fire retardant using aerial vehicles.1. A system, comprising:
a plurality of sensors provided on an aerial aircraft to sense weather, terrain, and fire characteristics; and a controller to determine optimal location of application of fire retardant based on the weather, terrain and fire characteristics. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors include fire hot spot sensors. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the fire hot spot sensors include at least one of infrared (IR) cameras and Electro Optical Sensors (EO) onboard the aerial vehicle. 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of sensors include terrain sensors. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the terrain sensors include at least one of RADAR, LIDAR, Acoustic Ranging and Radar Altimeters. 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of sensors include environmental sensors. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the environmental sensors include wind, temperature, and moisture content sensors. 8. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the controller and plurality of sensors communicate with a guidance system. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the guidance system is an onboard guidance system. 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the guidance system is an off board guidance system. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of sensors communicate with ground based systems. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the aerial vehicle is an unmanned aerial vehicle and the plurality of sensors includes multi-spectral sensing capabilities. 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the aerial vehicle is a manned aerial vehicle. 14. A system, comprising:
a plurality of sensors encompassing multi-spectral sensing capabilities of external environmental conditions, provided on an aerial aircraft; and a controller to determine optimal location of application of fire retardant based on the external environmental conditions as sensed by the plurality of sensors. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors sense weather, terrain, and fire characteristics and the controller determines optimal location of application of fire retardant based on the weather, terrain and fire characteristics. 16. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors include fire hot spot sensors comprising at least one of infrared (IR) cameras and Electro Optical Sensors (EO) onboard the aerial vehicle. 17. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors include terrain sensors including at least one of RADAR, LIDAR, Acoustic Ranging and Radar Altimeters. 18. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensors include at least one of wind, temperature, and moisture content sensors. 19. The system of claim 14, wherein at least one of the controller and plurality of sensors communicate with an onboard guidance system which directs the aerial aircraft to a general location of the wildfire and the location to release the fire retardant. 20. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of sensors communicate with ground based systems to coordinate ground efforts to control the wildfire. | 3,600 |
13,395 | 13,395 | 14,813,529 | 3,689 | A domestic appliance comprising communication circuitry and a processing system, including at least one processor, may be coupled to the communication circuitry. The processing system may be configured to: receive, using the communication circuitry, service data from a server, the service data including a service code identifying one or more services that need to be performed on the domestic appliance; disable, based on the received service code, one or more features of the domestic appliance; and in response to an input indicating that the one or more services corresponding to the service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled. | 1. A domestic appliance comprising:
communication circuitry; a processing system, comprising at least one processor, the processing system coupled to the communication circuitry and being configured to:
receive, using the communication circuitry, service data from a server, the service data including a service code identifying one or more services that need to be performed on the domestic appliance;
disable, based on the received service code, one or more features of the domestic appliance; and
in response to an input indicating that the one or more services corresponding to the service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled. 2. The domestic appliance of claim 1, further comprising a display coupled to the processing system, and wherein the processing system is further configured to:
control the display to display the service code included in the received service data; and in response to the user input indicating that the services associated with the received service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, control the display to stop displaying the service code. 3. The domestic appliance of claim 1, further comprising a display coupled to the processing system, and wherein the processing system is further configured to control the display to display the service code and a description of the service code included in the received service data. 4. The domestic appliance of claim 1, further comprising a display coupled to the processing system, and wherein the processing system is further configured to:
in response to a request sent to a server for information about the service code included in the received service data, receive a description of the service code; and control the display to display the received description of the service code. 5. The domestic appliance of claim 4, wherein the description of the service code includes contact information to request service for the domestic appliance, contact information to obtain more information about the service code, and/or contact information to replace the domestic appliance. 6. The domestic appliance of claim 1, wherein the processing system is further configured to:
in response to the user input indicating that the services associated with the received service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, transmit, to the server, data indicating that services associated with the service code have been performed on the domestic appliance. 7. The domestic appliance of claim 1, wherein the input indicating that the one or more services identified in the service data have been performed on the domestic appliance is a predefined code associated with the one or more services identified in the service data. 8. The domestic appliance of claim 1, wherein the received service data includes a predefined code and the processing system is further configured to:
compare the input to the predefined code; and enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled when the input corresponds to the predefined code. 9. A domestic appliance comprising:
communication circuitry; a processing system, comprising at least one processor and memory, the processing system coupled to the communication circuitry and being configured to: transmit, using the communication circuitry, a request for recall information for the domestic appliance; in response to the request, receive, from a server, recall information for the domestic appliance; and display, on a display coupled to the domestic appliance, the received recall information for the domestic appliance. 10. The domestic appliance of claim 9, wherein the recall information includes a service code and the processing system is configured to display, on the display, the service code. 11. The domestic appliance of claim 10, wherein the recall information includes information about the service code and the processing system is configured to display, on the display, the information about the service code. 12. The domestic appliance of claim 11, wherein the information about the service code includes a description of the service code, contact information to request service for the appliance, contact information to obtain more information about the service code, and/or contact information to replace the domestic appliance. 13. The domestic appliance of claim 11, wherein the processing system is further configured to:
when the received service code includes a flag indicating that it is an important service code, transmit, using the communication circuitry, a notification to a mobile device registered in the memory. 14. The domestic appliance of claim 11, wherein the processing system is further configured to:
when the received service code includes a flag indicating that it is an important service code, disable one or more features of the domestic appliance which are associated with the important service code. 15. The domestic appliance of claim 14, wherein the received recall information includes a predefined code and the processing system is further configured to:
compare an input received at an input device associated with the domestic appliance to the predefined code; and enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled when the input corresponds to the predefined code. 16. A device for providing service data to one or more domestic appliances, the device comprising:
communication circuitry; storage storing recall notices for a plurality of domestic appliances, each recall notice being associated with one or more domestic appliances; and a processing system, comprising at least one processor, the processing system coupled to the communication circuitry and the storage, the processing system being configured to:
receive, using the communication circuitry, a service data request from a domestic appliance, the service data request including appliance identification information of the domestic appliance;
determine, based the appliance identification information, whether one or more of the recall notices stored in storage apply to the domestic appliance requesting service data; and
when a determination is made that the one or more of the recall notices stored in the storage apply to the domestic appliance requesting the service data, transmit, using the communication circuitry, the service data with information identifying the one or more of the recall notices applying to the domestic appliance requesting the service data. 17. The device of claim 16 wherein, the service data request from the domestic appliance includes information about a user associated with the domestic appliance and the processing system is configured to store information indicating which recall notices were sent to the user associated with the domestic appliance. 18. The device of claim 16 wherein, the processing system is further configured to store, in the storage, information indicating which recall notices have already been sent to the domestic appliance requesting the service data. 19. The device of claim 18 wherein, the processing system is further configured to transmit, to the domestic appliance, the service data with information identifying only one or more of the recall notices applying to the domestic appliance requesting the service data and which have not been sent to the domestic appliance. 20. The device of claim 16 wherein, the processing system is further configured to receive, from the domestic appliance, information indicating which services, corresponding to the recall notices transmitted with the service data, have been performed on the domestic appliance. | A domestic appliance comprising communication circuitry and a processing system, including at least one processor, may be coupled to the communication circuitry. The processing system may be configured to: receive, using the communication circuitry, service data from a server, the service data including a service code identifying one or more services that need to be performed on the domestic appliance; disable, based on the received service code, one or more features of the domestic appliance; and in response to an input indicating that the one or more services corresponding to the service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled.1. A domestic appliance comprising:
communication circuitry; a processing system, comprising at least one processor, the processing system coupled to the communication circuitry and being configured to:
receive, using the communication circuitry, service data from a server, the service data including a service code identifying one or more services that need to be performed on the domestic appliance;
disable, based on the received service code, one or more features of the domestic appliance; and
in response to an input indicating that the one or more services corresponding to the service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled. 2. The domestic appliance of claim 1, further comprising a display coupled to the processing system, and wherein the processing system is further configured to:
control the display to display the service code included in the received service data; and in response to the user input indicating that the services associated with the received service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, control the display to stop displaying the service code. 3. The domestic appliance of claim 1, further comprising a display coupled to the processing system, and wherein the processing system is further configured to control the display to display the service code and a description of the service code included in the received service data. 4. The domestic appliance of claim 1, further comprising a display coupled to the processing system, and wherein the processing system is further configured to:
in response to a request sent to a server for information about the service code included in the received service data, receive a description of the service code; and control the display to display the received description of the service code. 5. The domestic appliance of claim 4, wherein the description of the service code includes contact information to request service for the domestic appliance, contact information to obtain more information about the service code, and/or contact information to replace the domestic appliance. 6. The domestic appliance of claim 1, wherein the processing system is further configured to:
in response to the user input indicating that the services associated with the received service code have been performed on the domestic appliance, transmit, to the server, data indicating that services associated with the service code have been performed on the domestic appliance. 7. The domestic appliance of claim 1, wherein the input indicating that the one or more services identified in the service data have been performed on the domestic appliance is a predefined code associated with the one or more services identified in the service data. 8. The domestic appliance of claim 1, wherein the received service data includes a predefined code and the processing system is further configured to:
compare the input to the predefined code; and enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled when the input corresponds to the predefined code. 9. A domestic appliance comprising:
communication circuitry; a processing system, comprising at least one processor and memory, the processing system coupled to the communication circuitry and being configured to: transmit, using the communication circuitry, a request for recall information for the domestic appliance; in response to the request, receive, from a server, recall information for the domestic appliance; and display, on a display coupled to the domestic appliance, the received recall information for the domestic appliance. 10. The domestic appliance of claim 9, wherein the recall information includes a service code and the processing system is configured to display, on the display, the service code. 11. The domestic appliance of claim 10, wherein the recall information includes information about the service code and the processing system is configured to display, on the display, the information about the service code. 12. The domestic appliance of claim 11, wherein the information about the service code includes a description of the service code, contact information to request service for the appliance, contact information to obtain more information about the service code, and/or contact information to replace the domestic appliance. 13. The domestic appliance of claim 11, wherein the processing system is further configured to:
when the received service code includes a flag indicating that it is an important service code, transmit, using the communication circuitry, a notification to a mobile device registered in the memory. 14. The domestic appliance of claim 11, wherein the processing system is further configured to:
when the received service code includes a flag indicating that it is an important service code, disable one or more features of the domestic appliance which are associated with the important service code. 15. The domestic appliance of claim 14, wherein the received recall information includes a predefined code and the processing system is further configured to:
compare an input received at an input device associated with the domestic appliance to the predefined code; and enable the one or more features of the domestic appliance that were disabled when the input corresponds to the predefined code. 16. A device for providing service data to one or more domestic appliances, the device comprising:
communication circuitry; storage storing recall notices for a plurality of domestic appliances, each recall notice being associated with one or more domestic appliances; and a processing system, comprising at least one processor, the processing system coupled to the communication circuitry and the storage, the processing system being configured to:
receive, using the communication circuitry, a service data request from a domestic appliance, the service data request including appliance identification information of the domestic appliance;
determine, based the appliance identification information, whether one or more of the recall notices stored in storage apply to the domestic appliance requesting service data; and
when a determination is made that the one or more of the recall notices stored in the storage apply to the domestic appliance requesting the service data, transmit, using the communication circuitry, the service data with information identifying the one or more of the recall notices applying to the domestic appliance requesting the service data. 17. The device of claim 16 wherein, the service data request from the domestic appliance includes information about a user associated with the domestic appliance and the processing system is configured to store information indicating which recall notices were sent to the user associated with the domestic appliance. 18. The device of claim 16 wherein, the processing system is further configured to store, in the storage, information indicating which recall notices have already been sent to the domestic appliance requesting the service data. 19. The device of claim 18 wherein, the processing system is further configured to transmit, to the domestic appliance, the service data with information identifying only one or more of the recall notices applying to the domestic appliance requesting the service data and which have not been sent to the domestic appliance. 20. The device of claim 16 wherein, the processing system is further configured to receive, from the domestic appliance, information indicating which services, corresponding to the recall notices transmitted with the service data, have been performed on the domestic appliance. | 3,600 |
13,396 | 13,396 | 15,481,756 | 3,668 | A computing device in a vehicle can emit a sequence of light pulses having a first speed, then receive a signal from another vehicle. Following this, the computing device can emit a message as a sequence of light pulses having a second speed based on the signal received from the vehicle, wherein the first speed is different from the second speed. | 1. A method, comprising:
transmitting a sequence of light pulses having a first speed; receiving a second sequence of light pulses from a vehicle; and transmitting a message as a sequence of light pulses having a second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle and selected at least in part to be different from the first speed. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a computing device determines the second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle that is slower than the first speed. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the computing device determines when the vehicle is no longer in proximity and transmits a sequence of light pulses having a third speed, wherein the third speed is faster than the second speed. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the computing device receives a third sequence of light pulses from a third vehicle and transmits the message as a sequence of light pulses having a third speed based on the third sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle, wherein the third speed is different from the second speed. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the light pulses are modulated IR radiation. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the message includes information regarding vehicle position, motion, size, safety events, path history and vehicle status, encoded into light pulses as binary bits, wherein the encoding is independent of message transmission speed. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the message is also transmitted via a wireless vehicle-to-vehicle network. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the sequences of light pulses are received via an IR video sensor. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the sequences of light pulses are received from two or more vehicles. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
emitting the message as a sequence of light pulses having a fourth speed based on the sequences of light pulses, wherein the fourth speed is set equal to the slowest of the sequences of light pulses. 11. An apparatus, comprising:
a processor; a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the processor to: transmit a sequence of light pulses having a first speed; receive a second sequence of light pulses from a vehicle; and transmit a message as a sequence of light pulses having a second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle and selected at least in part to be different from the first speed. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein a computing device determines the second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle that is slower than the first speed. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the computing device determines when the vehicle is no longer in proximity and transmits a sequence of light pulses having a third speed, wherein the third speed is faster than the second speed. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the computing device receives a third sequence of light pulses from a third vehicle and transmits the message as a sequence of light pulses having a third speed based on the third sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle, wherein the third speed is different from the second speed. 15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the light pulses are modulated IR radiation. 16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the message includes information regarding vehicle position, motion, size, safety events, path history and vehicle status, encoded into light pulses as binary bits, wherein the encoding is independent of message transmission speed. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the message is also transmitted via a wireless vehicle-to-vehicle network. 18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the sequences of light pulses are received via an IR video sensor. 19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the sequences of light pulse are received from one or more vehicles. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising:
emitting the message as a sequence of light pulses having a fourth speed based on the sequences of light pulses, wherein the fourth speed is set equal to the slowest of the sequences of light pulses. | A computing device in a vehicle can emit a sequence of light pulses having a first speed, then receive a signal from another vehicle. Following this, the computing device can emit a message as a sequence of light pulses having a second speed based on the signal received from the vehicle, wherein the first speed is different from the second speed.1. A method, comprising:
transmitting a sequence of light pulses having a first speed; receiving a second sequence of light pulses from a vehicle; and transmitting a message as a sequence of light pulses having a second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle and selected at least in part to be different from the first speed. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a computing device determines the second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle that is slower than the first speed. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the computing device determines when the vehicle is no longer in proximity and transmits a sequence of light pulses having a third speed, wherein the third speed is faster than the second speed. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the computing device receives a third sequence of light pulses from a third vehicle and transmits the message as a sequence of light pulses having a third speed based on the third sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle, wherein the third speed is different from the second speed. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the light pulses are modulated IR radiation. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the message includes information regarding vehicle position, motion, size, safety events, path history and vehicle status, encoded into light pulses as binary bits, wherein the encoding is independent of message transmission speed. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the message is also transmitted via a wireless vehicle-to-vehicle network. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the sequences of light pulses are received via an IR video sensor. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the sequences of light pulses are received from two or more vehicles. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
emitting the message as a sequence of light pulses having a fourth speed based on the sequences of light pulses, wherein the fourth speed is set equal to the slowest of the sequences of light pulses. 11. An apparatus, comprising:
a processor; a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the processor to: transmit a sequence of light pulses having a first speed; receive a second sequence of light pulses from a vehicle; and transmit a message as a sequence of light pulses having a second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle and selected at least in part to be different from the first speed. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein a computing device determines the second speed based on the second sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle that is slower than the first speed. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the computing device determines when the vehicle is no longer in proximity and transmits a sequence of light pulses having a third speed, wherein the third speed is faster than the second speed. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the computing device receives a third sequence of light pulses from a third vehicle and transmits the message as a sequence of light pulses having a third speed based on the third sequence of light pulses received from the vehicle, wherein the third speed is different from the second speed. 15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the light pulses are modulated IR radiation. 16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the message includes information regarding vehicle position, motion, size, safety events, path history and vehicle status, encoded into light pulses as binary bits, wherein the encoding is independent of message transmission speed. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the message is also transmitted via a wireless vehicle-to-vehicle network. 18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the sequences of light pulses are received via an IR video sensor. 19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the sequences of light pulse are received from one or more vehicles. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising:
emitting the message as a sequence of light pulses having a fourth speed based on the sequences of light pulses, wherein the fourth speed is set equal to the slowest of the sequences of light pulses. | 3,600 |
13,397 | 13,397 | 14,653,743 | 3,619 | Disclosed is a method of testing the effectiveness of perforations and well treatments to enhance production, wherein tomographic image data is collected while fluid flow tests are conducted on a formation sample and thereafter three dimensional images are created and analyzed. | 1. A method for determining effects of perforation on a subterranean formation sample, comprising:
selecting a formation sample; creating a perforation tunnel in the formation sample; flowing fluid into the formation sample; and thereafter conducting tomographic scans of flow in the formation sample while fluid is flowing in the sample. 2. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising making a series of tomographic images of the progression of flow through the formation sample. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the flowing fluid step comprises flowing a marker fluid into the formation sample. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the fluid flowing step comprises flowing fluid containing iodine. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the fluid flowing step comprises flowing fluid containing barium. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the flowing fluid step comprises flowing fluid in the gaseous state. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the gas comprises nitrogen gas. 8. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising the steps of:
discontinuing flow through the formation sample after conducting tomographic scans; flowing stimulation treatment fluid through the perforation tunnel and into the formation sample; and flowing fluid into the formation sample; conducting tomographic scans of flow in the formation sample while fluid is flowing in the sample; and comparing the data from the tomographic scans before formation treatment and after formation treatment. 9. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising collecting data from the tomographic scans and processing the data to form images of the fluid flow. 10. The method of claim 2, additionally comprising collecting data from the tomographic scans and processing the data to form images of the fluid flow. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the formation sample comprises solid material. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the formation sample comprises granular material. 13. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising the step of discontinuing flow into the formation sample, then injecting treatment fluid into the perforation tunnel and formation sample; next conducting tomographic scans; and thereafter conducting additional tomographic scans of flow in the treated formation sample. 14. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising the steps of:
discontinuing flow through the formation sample after conducting tomographic scans; flowing stimulation treatment fluid through the perforation tunnel and into the formation sample; flowing fluid into the formation sample; conducting tomographic scans of flow in the formation sample while fluid is flowing in the sample; and comparing the data from the tomographic scans before formation treatment and after formation treatment. 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the perforation tunnel formation is conducted while the formation sample is subjected to an elevated pressure. 16. The method of claim 2, wherein the perforation tunnel formation is conducted while the formation sample is subjected to an elevated pressure. 17. The method of claim 1, wherein the perforation tunnel formation, fluid flowing and tomographic scans are conducted while the formation sample is subjected to an elevated pressure. 18. The method of claim 1, wherein the perforation tunnel formation, fluid flow in the formation sample, and tomographic scanning is conducted while the formation sample is located inside a pressure vessel that made from material that does not substantially attenuate X-Rays. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the pressure vessel material comprises aluminum. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the pressure vessel material comprises carbon fiber. 21. A method for determining effects of perforation on a subterranean formation sample, under elevated pressure conditions, comprising:
maintaining the sample at elevated pressure conditions corresponding to a subterranean pressure; and while maintaining the sample at the elevated pressure:
(a) creating a perforation tunnel in the formation sample by using an explosive charge;
(b) flowing fluid into the formation sample and out of the perforation tunnel;
(c) conducting tomographic scans and collecting image data as the fluid flow progresses through the sample and into the perforation tunnel; and
thereafter, processing the image data to create images of the flow in the sample. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the perforation tunnel creating step comprises damaging the sample around the perforation to form a crush zone and wherein the tomographic scan steps comprise conducting tomographic scans to collect data relating to the fluid flow through the crush zone of the sample. 23. The method of claim 21, additionally comprising flowing a marker fluid into the sample and wherein the tomographic scan steps comprise utilizing a stop frame scanning process to record the flow of the marker fluid. 24. The method of claim 23, additionally comprising processing the data to create a three dimensional movie of the progression of marker fluid flow into the sample. 25. A method for determining effects of perforation on a subterranean formation sample, under elevated pressure conditions, comprising:
subjecting the sample to an elevated pressure while creating a perforation tunnel in the formation sample; and using tomographic scans to make a three dimensional image of the walls of the perforation tunnel in the formation sample. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the perforation tunnel creating step comprises damaging the sample around the perforation and creating a crush zone in the sample and wherein the tomographic scan steps comprise conducting tomographic scans to collect data relating to the fluid flow through the crush zone in the sample. 27. The method of claim 25, additionally comprising the step of flowing fluid through the sample while conducting tomographic scans to collect data relating to the crush zone. 28. The method of claim 25, additionally comprising flowing a marker fluid into the sample and wherein the tomographic scan step comprises utilizing a stop frame scanning process to record the flow of the marker fluid. 29. The method of claim 28, additionally comprising processing the data to create a three dimensional movie of the progression of marker fluid flow into the sample. | Disclosed is a method of testing the effectiveness of perforations and well treatments to enhance production, wherein tomographic image data is collected while fluid flow tests are conducted on a formation sample and thereafter three dimensional images are created and analyzed.1. A method for determining effects of perforation on a subterranean formation sample, comprising:
selecting a formation sample; creating a perforation tunnel in the formation sample; flowing fluid into the formation sample; and thereafter conducting tomographic scans of flow in the formation sample while fluid is flowing in the sample. 2. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising making a series of tomographic images of the progression of flow through the formation sample. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the flowing fluid step comprises flowing a marker fluid into the formation sample. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the fluid flowing step comprises flowing fluid containing iodine. 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the fluid flowing step comprises flowing fluid containing barium. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the flowing fluid step comprises flowing fluid in the gaseous state. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the gas comprises nitrogen gas. 8. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising the steps of:
discontinuing flow through the formation sample after conducting tomographic scans; flowing stimulation treatment fluid through the perforation tunnel and into the formation sample; and flowing fluid into the formation sample; conducting tomographic scans of flow in the formation sample while fluid is flowing in the sample; and comparing the data from the tomographic scans before formation treatment and after formation treatment. 9. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising collecting data from the tomographic scans and processing the data to form images of the fluid flow. 10. The method of claim 2, additionally comprising collecting data from the tomographic scans and processing the data to form images of the fluid flow. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the formation sample comprises solid material. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the formation sample comprises granular material. 13. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising the step of discontinuing flow into the formation sample, then injecting treatment fluid into the perforation tunnel and formation sample; next conducting tomographic scans; and thereafter conducting additional tomographic scans of flow in the treated formation sample. 14. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising the steps of:
discontinuing flow through the formation sample after conducting tomographic scans; flowing stimulation treatment fluid through the perforation tunnel and into the formation sample; flowing fluid into the formation sample; conducting tomographic scans of flow in the formation sample while fluid is flowing in the sample; and comparing the data from the tomographic scans before formation treatment and after formation treatment. 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the perforation tunnel formation is conducted while the formation sample is subjected to an elevated pressure. 16. The method of claim 2, wherein the perforation tunnel formation is conducted while the formation sample is subjected to an elevated pressure. 17. The method of claim 1, wherein the perforation tunnel formation, fluid flowing and tomographic scans are conducted while the formation sample is subjected to an elevated pressure. 18. The method of claim 1, wherein the perforation tunnel formation, fluid flow in the formation sample, and tomographic scanning is conducted while the formation sample is located inside a pressure vessel that made from material that does not substantially attenuate X-Rays. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the pressure vessel material comprises aluminum. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the pressure vessel material comprises carbon fiber. 21. A method for determining effects of perforation on a subterranean formation sample, under elevated pressure conditions, comprising:
maintaining the sample at elevated pressure conditions corresponding to a subterranean pressure; and while maintaining the sample at the elevated pressure:
(a) creating a perforation tunnel in the formation sample by using an explosive charge;
(b) flowing fluid into the formation sample and out of the perforation tunnel;
(c) conducting tomographic scans and collecting image data as the fluid flow progresses through the sample and into the perforation tunnel; and
thereafter, processing the image data to create images of the flow in the sample. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the perforation tunnel creating step comprises damaging the sample around the perforation to form a crush zone and wherein the tomographic scan steps comprise conducting tomographic scans to collect data relating to the fluid flow through the crush zone of the sample. 23. The method of claim 21, additionally comprising flowing a marker fluid into the sample and wherein the tomographic scan steps comprise utilizing a stop frame scanning process to record the flow of the marker fluid. 24. The method of claim 23, additionally comprising processing the data to create a three dimensional movie of the progression of marker fluid flow into the sample. 25. A method for determining effects of perforation on a subterranean formation sample, under elevated pressure conditions, comprising:
subjecting the sample to an elevated pressure while creating a perforation tunnel in the formation sample; and using tomographic scans to make a three dimensional image of the walls of the perforation tunnel in the formation sample. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the perforation tunnel creating step comprises damaging the sample around the perforation and creating a crush zone in the sample and wherein the tomographic scan steps comprise conducting tomographic scans to collect data relating to the fluid flow through the crush zone in the sample. 27. The method of claim 25, additionally comprising the step of flowing fluid through the sample while conducting tomographic scans to collect data relating to the crush zone. 28. The method of claim 25, additionally comprising flowing a marker fluid into the sample and wherein the tomographic scan step comprises utilizing a stop frame scanning process to record the flow of the marker fluid. 29. The method of claim 28, additionally comprising processing the data to create a three dimensional movie of the progression of marker fluid flow into the sample. | 3,600 |
13,398 | 13,398 | 14,498,894 | 3,688 | An online system receives a plurality of business rules from a third party system, each of which includes one or more conditions for associating a user of the online system with an audience group. The online system generates a decision tree including the business rules. Contextual information describing an interaction between a user of an online system and content of the third party system is received from a client device of the user. The online system determines, using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the received contextual information. An advertisement is selected for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user, and the selected advertisement is provided to the client device of the user. | 1. A method comprising:
receiving, from a third party system, a plurality of business rules specifying criteria for whether a user of an online system is to be included in each of a plurality of audience groups, each business rule including one or more conditions for associating a user with an audience group and each audience group including one or more users; generating a decision tree including the plurality of business rules; receiving contextual information from a client device associated with a user of the online system, the contextual information describing an interaction between the user and content of the third party system; determining, using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the received contextual information; selecting an advertisement for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user; and providing the selected advertisement to the client device of the user. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a plurality of nodes in the decision tree identify audience groups, a path from a root node of the decision tree to a node that identifies at least one audience group representing the one or more conditions for associating a user with the at least one audience group. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein generating the decision tree comprises:
generating one or more paths for a business rule, a node terminating each path identifying the audience group associated with the business rule; and combining the paths corresponding to the plurality of business rules. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein generating the one or more paths for the business rule comprises:
generating a tree structure comprising the one or more conditions associated with the business rule; extracting one or more rule fragments from the tree structure; and generating a path for each of the extracted rule fragments. 5. The method of claim 2, wherein determining using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user comprises:
traversing one or more paths of the decision tree using the contextual information; storing identifiers of nodes traversed; and associating the user with the audience groups corresponding to the traversed nodes. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the decision tree comprises:
sorting the conditions associated with the plurality of business rules; and generating the decision tree based on the sorted conditions. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the contextual information comprises:
receiving the contextual information responsive to the client device executing one or more instructions included in the content of the third party system to communicate the contextual information to the online system. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
accessing a plurality of advertisement requests, each advertisement request specifying targeting criteria comprising one or more audience groups; wherein selecting the advertisement for presentation to the user comprises selecting an ad request having targeting criteria specifying the one or more audience groups associated with the user. 9. A method comprising:
receiving, from a client device associated with a user of an online system, contextual information describing an interaction between the user and content of a third party system; determining one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the contextual information and a decision tree, a plurality of nodes in the decision tree identifying audience groups and a path from a root node of the decision tree to a node that identifies at least one audience group representing one or more conditions for associating a user with the at least one audience group; selecting an advertisement for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user; and providing the selected advertisement to the client device of the user. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the decision tree is generated by the online system based on a plurality of business rules received from the third party system, each business rule including one or more conditions for associating a user with an audience group. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein determining one or more audience groups associated with the user comprises:
traversing one or more paths of the decision tree using the contextual information; storing identifiers of nodes traversed; and associating the user with the audience groups corresponding to the traversed nodes. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein receiving the contextual information comprises:
receiving the contextual information responsive to the client device executing one or more instructions included in the content of the third party system to communicate the contextual information to the online system. 13. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
accessing a plurality of advertisement requests, each advertisement request specifying targeting criteria comprising one or more audience groups; wherein selecting the advertisement for presentation to the user comprises selecting an ad request having targeting criteria specifying the one or more audience groups associated with the user. 14. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions encoded thereon that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
receive, from a third party system, a plurality of business rules specifying criteria for whether a user of an online system is to be included in each of a plurality of audience groups, each business rule including one or more conditions for associating a user with an audience group and each audience group including one or more users; generate a decision tree including the plurality of business rules; receive contextual information from a client device associated with a user of the online system, the contextual information describing an interaction between the user and content of the third party system; determine, using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the received contextual information; select an advertisement for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user; and provide the selected advertisement to the client device of the user. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein a plurality of nodes in the decision tree identify audience groups, a path from a root node of the decision tree to a node that identifies at least one audience group representing the one or more conditions for associating a user with the at least one audience group. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the instructions causing the processor to generate the decision tree comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
generate one or more paths for a business rule, a node terminating each path identifying the audience group associated with the business rule; and combine the paths corresponding to the plurality of business rules. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the instructions causing the processor to generate the one or more paths for the business rule comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
generate a tree structure comprising the one or more conditions associated with the business rule; extract one or more rule fragments from the tree structure; and generate a path for each of the extracted rule fragments. 18. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the instructions causing the processor to determine using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
traverse one or more paths of the decision tree using the contextual information; store identifiers of nodes traversed; and associate the user with the audience groups corresponding to the traversed nodes. 19. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the instructions causing the processor to generate the decision tree comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
sort the conditions associated with the plurality of business rules; and generate the decision tree based on the sorted conditions. 20. The computer program product of claim 14, further comprising instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
access a plurality of advertisement requests, each advertisement request specifying targeting criteria comprising one or more audience groups; wherein the instructions causing the processor to select the advertisement for presentation to the user comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to select an ad request having targeting criteria specifying the one or more audience groups associated with the user. | An online system receives a plurality of business rules from a third party system, each of which includes one or more conditions for associating a user of the online system with an audience group. The online system generates a decision tree including the business rules. Contextual information describing an interaction between a user of an online system and content of the third party system is received from a client device of the user. The online system determines, using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the received contextual information. An advertisement is selected for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user, and the selected advertisement is provided to the client device of the user.1. A method comprising:
receiving, from a third party system, a plurality of business rules specifying criteria for whether a user of an online system is to be included in each of a plurality of audience groups, each business rule including one or more conditions for associating a user with an audience group and each audience group including one or more users; generating a decision tree including the plurality of business rules; receiving contextual information from a client device associated with a user of the online system, the contextual information describing an interaction between the user and content of the third party system; determining, using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the received contextual information; selecting an advertisement for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user; and providing the selected advertisement to the client device of the user. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a plurality of nodes in the decision tree identify audience groups, a path from a root node of the decision tree to a node that identifies at least one audience group representing the one or more conditions for associating a user with the at least one audience group. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein generating the decision tree comprises:
generating one or more paths for a business rule, a node terminating each path identifying the audience group associated with the business rule; and combining the paths corresponding to the plurality of business rules. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein generating the one or more paths for the business rule comprises:
generating a tree structure comprising the one or more conditions associated with the business rule; extracting one or more rule fragments from the tree structure; and generating a path for each of the extracted rule fragments. 5. The method of claim 2, wherein determining using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user comprises:
traversing one or more paths of the decision tree using the contextual information; storing identifiers of nodes traversed; and associating the user with the audience groups corresponding to the traversed nodes. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the decision tree comprises:
sorting the conditions associated with the plurality of business rules; and generating the decision tree based on the sorted conditions. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the contextual information comprises:
receiving the contextual information responsive to the client device executing one or more instructions included in the content of the third party system to communicate the contextual information to the online system. 8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
accessing a plurality of advertisement requests, each advertisement request specifying targeting criteria comprising one or more audience groups; wherein selecting the advertisement for presentation to the user comprises selecting an ad request having targeting criteria specifying the one or more audience groups associated with the user. 9. A method comprising:
receiving, from a client device associated with a user of an online system, contextual information describing an interaction between the user and content of a third party system; determining one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the contextual information and a decision tree, a plurality of nodes in the decision tree identifying audience groups and a path from a root node of the decision tree to a node that identifies at least one audience group representing one or more conditions for associating a user with the at least one audience group; selecting an advertisement for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user; and providing the selected advertisement to the client device of the user. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the decision tree is generated by the online system based on a plurality of business rules received from the third party system, each business rule including one or more conditions for associating a user with an audience group. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein determining one or more audience groups associated with the user comprises:
traversing one or more paths of the decision tree using the contextual information; storing identifiers of nodes traversed; and associating the user with the audience groups corresponding to the traversed nodes. 12. The method of claim 9, wherein receiving the contextual information comprises:
receiving the contextual information responsive to the client device executing one or more instructions included in the content of the third party system to communicate the contextual information to the online system. 13. The method of claim 9, further comprising:
accessing a plurality of advertisement requests, each advertisement request specifying targeting criteria comprising one or more audience groups; wherein selecting the advertisement for presentation to the user comprises selecting an ad request having targeting criteria specifying the one or more audience groups associated with the user. 14. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions encoded thereon that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
receive, from a third party system, a plurality of business rules specifying criteria for whether a user of an online system is to be included in each of a plurality of audience groups, each business rule including one or more conditions for associating a user with an audience group and each audience group including one or more users; generate a decision tree including the plurality of business rules; receive contextual information from a client device associated with a user of the online system, the contextual information describing an interaction between the user and content of the third party system; determine, using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user based on a portion of the received contextual information; select an advertisement for presentation to the user based on the one or more audience groups associated with the user; and provide the selected advertisement to the client device of the user. 15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein a plurality of nodes in the decision tree identify audience groups, a path from a root node of the decision tree to a node that identifies at least one audience group representing the one or more conditions for associating a user with the at least one audience group. 16. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the instructions causing the processor to generate the decision tree comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
generate one or more paths for a business rule, a node terminating each path identifying the audience group associated with the business rule; and combine the paths corresponding to the plurality of business rules. 17. The computer program product of claim 16, wherein the instructions causing the processor to generate the one or more paths for the business rule comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
generate a tree structure comprising the one or more conditions associated with the business rule; extract one or more rule fragments from the tree structure; and generate a path for each of the extracted rule fragments. 18. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the instructions causing the processor to determine using the decision tree, one or more audience groups associated with the user comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
traverse one or more paths of the decision tree using the contextual information; store identifiers of nodes traversed; and associate the user with the audience groups corresponding to the traversed nodes. 19. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the instructions causing the processor to generate the decision tree comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
sort the conditions associated with the plurality of business rules; and generate the decision tree based on the sorted conditions. 20. The computer program product of claim 14, further comprising instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to:
access a plurality of advertisement requests, each advertisement request specifying targeting criteria comprising one or more audience groups; wherein the instructions causing the processor to select the advertisement for presentation to the user comprise instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to select an ad request having targeting criteria specifying the one or more audience groups associated with the user. | 3,600 |
13,399 | 13,399 | 14,930,643 | 3,629 | A system and software for scheduling courses at an institution that offers a variety of courses in different semesters. Scheduling software is provided that is accessible to a student through a computer network. The scheduling software filters courses being offered by eliminating courses that have been previously completed by the student. Courses that do not serve as one of the student's course requirements are also filtered. Likewise, courses that have prerequisites yet unattained by the student are filtered. After the initial filtering process, the student is presented with filtered course offerings. The student selects courses from the filtered course offerings, therein creating scheduled courses. The scheduling software automatically updates the filtered course offerings after each selection of a course to eliminate any of the offered courses that conflict in date and time with scheduled courses. | 1. A method of scheduling courses for an institution that offers a variety of courses in different semesters and has various course requirements for graduation, said method comprising the steps of:
maintaining a computer database containing said variety of courses and said course requirements for graduation, wherein said computer database is accessible through a computer network; providing a scheduling software that is accessible to a student through said computer network, wherein the student has a major and has previously completed some of a variety of courses offered by the institution; having the student run said scheduling software to schedule courses for an upcoming semester, wherein said scheduling software initially filters said variety of courses available for selection by eliminating courses that have been completed by the student, eliminating courses that do not serve as one of said course requirements for said major of the student, and eliminating courses that have prerequisites yet unattained by the student, therein creating filtered course offerings; having the student select courses from said filtered course offerings, therein creating scheduled courses, wherein said scheduling software automatically updates said filtered course offerings after each selection of a course to eliminate any of said variety of courses that conflict in date and time with scheduled courses. 2. The method according to claim 1, further including the step of categorizing said filtered course offerings, therein presenting said filtered course offerings in categories divided into topics of study. 3. The method according to claim 2, further including the step of indicating how many course credits are required in each of said categories to obtain said course requirements for graduation in said major of the student. 4. The method according to claim 3, further including the step of indicating how many course credits have been completed by the student in each of said categories. 5. The method according to claim 2, further including the step of prioritizing said categories from a category with a highest priority to a category with a lowest priority, wherein said scheduling software requires that the student select courses from said category with said highest priority first and progressing in selection toward said category with said lowest priority. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein said step of prioritizing said categories includes making courses in said major of the student said highest priority. 7. The method according to claim 1, further including the step of having the student select a graduation date and indicating to the student whether or not said scheduled courses are sufficient to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein said step of indicating to a student includes generating a credit score that indicates how many credits should be taken in the semester being scheduled to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein said credit score is presented as a graph. 10. A method of scheduling courses for an institution that offers a variety of courses in different semesters and has various course requirements for graduation, said method comprising the steps of:
maintaining a computer database containing said variety of courses and said course requirements for graduation, wherein said computer database is accessible through a computer network; having a student with a selected major run scheduling software through said computer network to schedule courses for an upcoming semester, wherein said scheduling software initially filters said variety of courses available for selection by eliminating courses that have been completed by the student, eliminating courses that do not serve as one of said course requirements for said major of the student, and indicating courses that have prerequisites yet unattained by the student, therein creating filtered course offerings; categorizing said filtered course offerings into separate topics of study; assigning priorities to said topics of study; having the student select courses from said filtered course offerings using said priorities, therein creating scheduled courses, wherein said scheduling software automatically updates said filtered course offerings after each selection of a course to eliminate any of said variety of courses that conflict in date and time with scheduled courses. 11. The method according to claim 10, further including the step of indicating how many course credits are required in each of said topics of study to obtain said course requirements for graduation for said major of the student. 12. The method according to claim 11, further including the step of indicating how many course credits have been completed in each of said topics of study by the student. 13. The method according to claim 10, wherein said step of assigning priorities to said topics of study include prioritizing said topics of study from a highest priority to a lowest priority, wherein said scheduling software requires that the student select courses from said topic of study with said highest priority first and progressing in turn toward lowest priority. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein said step of prioritizing said topics of study includes making courses in said major of the student said highest priority. 15. The method according to claim 10, further including the step of having the student select a graduation date and indicating to the student whether said scheduled courses are sufficient to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein said step of indicating to a student includes generating a credit score that indicates how many credits should be taken in the semester being scheduled to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein said credit score is presented as a graph. | A system and software for scheduling courses at an institution that offers a variety of courses in different semesters. Scheduling software is provided that is accessible to a student through a computer network. The scheduling software filters courses being offered by eliminating courses that have been previously completed by the student. Courses that do not serve as one of the student's course requirements are also filtered. Likewise, courses that have prerequisites yet unattained by the student are filtered. After the initial filtering process, the student is presented with filtered course offerings. The student selects courses from the filtered course offerings, therein creating scheduled courses. The scheduling software automatically updates the filtered course offerings after each selection of a course to eliminate any of the offered courses that conflict in date and time with scheduled courses.1. A method of scheduling courses for an institution that offers a variety of courses in different semesters and has various course requirements for graduation, said method comprising the steps of:
maintaining a computer database containing said variety of courses and said course requirements for graduation, wherein said computer database is accessible through a computer network; providing a scheduling software that is accessible to a student through said computer network, wherein the student has a major and has previously completed some of a variety of courses offered by the institution; having the student run said scheduling software to schedule courses for an upcoming semester, wherein said scheduling software initially filters said variety of courses available for selection by eliminating courses that have been completed by the student, eliminating courses that do not serve as one of said course requirements for said major of the student, and eliminating courses that have prerequisites yet unattained by the student, therein creating filtered course offerings; having the student select courses from said filtered course offerings, therein creating scheduled courses, wherein said scheduling software automatically updates said filtered course offerings after each selection of a course to eliminate any of said variety of courses that conflict in date and time with scheduled courses. 2. The method according to claim 1, further including the step of categorizing said filtered course offerings, therein presenting said filtered course offerings in categories divided into topics of study. 3. The method according to claim 2, further including the step of indicating how many course credits are required in each of said categories to obtain said course requirements for graduation in said major of the student. 4. The method according to claim 3, further including the step of indicating how many course credits have been completed by the student in each of said categories. 5. The method according to claim 2, further including the step of prioritizing said categories from a category with a highest priority to a category with a lowest priority, wherein said scheduling software requires that the student select courses from said category with said highest priority first and progressing in selection toward said category with said lowest priority. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein said step of prioritizing said categories includes making courses in said major of the student said highest priority. 7. The method according to claim 1, further including the step of having the student select a graduation date and indicating to the student whether or not said scheduled courses are sufficient to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein said step of indicating to a student includes generating a credit score that indicates how many credits should be taken in the semester being scheduled to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein said credit score is presented as a graph. 10. A method of scheduling courses for an institution that offers a variety of courses in different semesters and has various course requirements for graduation, said method comprising the steps of:
maintaining a computer database containing said variety of courses and said course requirements for graduation, wherein said computer database is accessible through a computer network; having a student with a selected major run scheduling software through said computer network to schedule courses for an upcoming semester, wherein said scheduling software initially filters said variety of courses available for selection by eliminating courses that have been completed by the student, eliminating courses that do not serve as one of said course requirements for said major of the student, and indicating courses that have prerequisites yet unattained by the student, therein creating filtered course offerings; categorizing said filtered course offerings into separate topics of study; assigning priorities to said topics of study; having the student select courses from said filtered course offerings using said priorities, therein creating scheduled courses, wherein said scheduling software automatically updates said filtered course offerings after each selection of a course to eliminate any of said variety of courses that conflict in date and time with scheduled courses. 11. The method according to claim 10, further including the step of indicating how many course credits are required in each of said topics of study to obtain said course requirements for graduation for said major of the student. 12. The method according to claim 11, further including the step of indicating how many course credits have been completed in each of said topics of study by the student. 13. The method according to claim 10, wherein said step of assigning priorities to said topics of study include prioritizing said topics of study from a highest priority to a lowest priority, wherein said scheduling software requires that the student select courses from said topic of study with said highest priority first and progressing in turn toward lowest priority. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein said step of prioritizing said topics of study includes making courses in said major of the student said highest priority. 15. The method according to claim 10, further including the step of having the student select a graduation date and indicating to the student whether said scheduled courses are sufficient to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein said step of indicating to a student includes generating a credit score that indicates how many credits should be taken in the semester being scheduled to complete said course requirements for graduation by said graduation date. 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein said credit score is presented as a graph. | 3,600 |
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