RELATED PATENT DATA

This patent application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/569,361, filed May 11, 2000, entitled â€œApparatus for Distributing Information Over a Network-Based Environment, Method of Distributing Information to Users, and Method for Associating Content Objects With a Database Wherein the Content Objects are Accessible Over a Network Communication Medium by a Userâ€ , naming John R. Knapp and Edward K. E. Snyders as inventors, and which is now U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,010, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention pertains to electronic commerce and business. More particularly, the present invention relates to aggregating, enhancing, and distributing content objects with customers over a network-based environment such as via the Internet or some other form of interactive network.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The storage and retrieval of information has evolved from storing and retrieving information in textbooks and libraries, to storing and retrieving information from online networks such as the Internet. More particularly, the recent adoption and acceptance of online networks such as the Internet has led to a significant increase in the availability of information to the general public. Users frequently access information from the Internet using a personal computer (PC) and a modem. With such a computer, a user can search through the world's best libraries, connect into computer systems located anywhere on the planet, and read online magazines. Furthermore, users can shop for almost anything, located nearly anywhere in the world. However, this greatly expanded capability to retrieve information has led to a syndrome that can best be characterized as â€œsipping information from a fire hoseâ€ . As a result, users become overwhelmed and either fail to find the information they seek or they lose track of the information. As a result of losing track of the information, they cannot find it again at a later point in time. Several techniques have evolved in order to enable a user to collect desirable information from the Internet. However, each of these techniques falls far short of meeting the needs of information providers and information users.

More recently, the World Wide Web (WWW) has become the main vehicle for delivering information over the Internet to users. The World Wide Web (WWW) is a network system that enables easy access to distributed documents over the Internet using a client/server architecture. The World Wide Web provides an Internet facility that links documents locally and remotely. A Web document, referred to as a Web page, includes links in a page that let users jump from page to page (hypertext links) whether the pages are stored on the same server or on servers around the world. These Web pages are accessed and read via a Web browser such as Netscape Navigator or Internet Explorer.

A user often looks for information on the World Wide Web (WWW) during an online session using a Web search engine, such as AltaVista, Google, or Yahoo! In order to locate items of interest by way of hypertext links, many search engines gather information about content that is available on the Internet using Web crawlers. A Web crawler is a program that gathers information by following hypertext links that have been encountered by the program. The program sends a universal resource locator (URL), as well as document text, back to indexing software on the search engine for each encountered document. The indexing software extracts information from the documents. For example, words, document size and date of creation can be extracted by the indexing software. Such information has been organized into a database, typically based on the frequency of use of individual words present within a document. Accordingly, a keyword search that is implemented by a user with the search engine results in a database being searched, and a search result being generated without actually going directly to the World Wide Web (WWW). The search engine then generates a results page having hypertext links to the Web pages that were located in the database. A user then merely clicks on the link in order to go to the corresponding Web page. However, the World Wide Web (WWW) has merely increased the accessibility of large amounts of information to Internet users.

There is a need, therefore, to provide improvements in the way demand for information is identified, content is generated in response to a defined demand, and the way in which users access desired information.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system and method are provided to document and quantify demand for particular information that is a requested by an individual user by sampling a worldwide user community by way of a networked system. Accordingly, user demand is aggregated in order to learn what information is desired by people. The aggregated demand is then used to compel a contributor to contribute information such as content objects. Additionally, information in the form of content objects available on the networked system is enhanced by way of an approval process, by ranking content, and by categorizing content. Furthermore, content is distributed to users in several manners: by way of a primary Web site, and by way of predetermined but dynamic groups of aggregated content objects which are made available via banners and/or tokens.

According to one aspect, an apparatus is provided for distributing information over a network-based environment. The apparatus includes a first client, a server, and a second client. The server communicates with the first client via a communication link and includes a database operative to store indicia associated with at least one content object and user identifiers. The second client communicates with the server over a communication link. The second client is remote from the first client and is operative to submit indicia and a user identifier to the server. In response to submission of the indicia and the user identifier, at least one of: (a) a content object, and (b) a link to the content object are received into a personalized access point of the server. The user can access the personalized access point of the server with the first client.

According to another aspect, a method is provided for distributing information to users. The method includes: providing a database capable of being associated with content objects that are accessible over a communication medium by a user at a client; associating at least one content object with a distribution mechanism; requesting a desired one of the at least one content object; and receiving the requested content object into a network-based personalized access point.

According to yet another aspect, a method is provided for associating content objects with a database wherein the content objects are accessible over a network communication medium by a user. The method includes: receiving a suggestion for a new content object for addition to the database; approving the suggested content object; generating a list of information users desiring the approved content object; compelling an information provider to provide the desired content object based at least in part on demand identified by the generated list; and making the generated content object available to the database.

According to even another aspect, a method is provided for distributing information to users. The method includes: providing a database on a server at a first location operative to store indicators that are associated with content objects, wherein the content objects are accessible over a communication link; presenting an indicator at a visually perceptible location to a user; while at a second location, submitting the indicator and a user identifier to the server at the first location; and in response to submitting the indicator and the user identifier, subscribing to one of: (a) a content object associated with the link, and (b) a link to the content object; and receiving one of the content object and the link into a personalized access point; wherein the personalized access point is viewable at a third location provided in communication with the web-based server over a communication link.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the following accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1

is a block diagram overview of a basic system configuration of an exemplary system for aggregating, organizing, ranking, and distributing content objects between information providers and information users over a network-based environment according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2

is a process flow diagram showing part of the logic processing for aggregating and distributing content objects.

FIG. 3

is second process flow diagram showing part of the logic processing for enhancing aggregated content objects by assessing demand for content and compelling content providers to contribute content objects to the network.

FIG. 4

is a third process flow diagram showing part of the logic processing for distributing aggregated content objects to users via a wireless Web appliance and product associated indicia that identify a set of predefined, yet dynamic aggregated content objects.

FIG. 5

is a diagram showing the assembly of

FIGS. 6A and 6B

together form a diagram of a screen display for a HowZone.com home page comprising a point of entry into a HowZone.com web site having a dynamically generated category network.

FIG. 7

is a diagram of a screen display for a Web page illustrating a â€œBusinessâ€ category page that is at a down-tree location from the screen display of

FIGS. 6A and 6B

FIG. 8

is a diagram of a screen display for a personal HowZone for a new user prior to selecting any content objects.

FIG. 9

is a diagram of a screen display for a content detail page having a link usable to add the described content object to a user's personal HowZone.

FIG. 10

is a diagram of a screen display for the personal HowZone of

FIG. 8

, after the addition of a content object to the user's personal HowZone.

FIG. 11

is a diagram of a screen display for a hosted, or distributed, HowZone which is located on another Web site, and showing an alternate method for displaying HowZone content objects.

FIG. 12

is a diagram of a screen display for the HowZone content detail page which is generated by selecting an item from the scrolling list of

FIG. 11

, and containing a link that enables a user to add the selected item to their personal HowZone.

FIG. 13

is a diagram of a screen display for the personal HowZone of

FIG. 10

showing the aggregation of content objects within the personal HowZone after selecting the link of

FIG. 12

which enables adding the selected item to the personal HowZone.

FIG. 14

is a diagram of a screen display showing one exemplary personal HowZone for a specific user containing a listing of all content objects previously selected by such user and showing a pop-up menu selected by a user for enabling the assignment of a ranking to a content object.

FIG. 15

is a diagram of the screen display of

FIG. 14

, but showing a user selecting the send ratings button in order to send ratings of the user's content objects to the HowZone server, or system.

FIG. 16

is a diagram of the screen display of

FIG. 7

illustrating a page from the content object listing and further illustrating the number of users, rating and cost for each content object.

FIG. 17

is a diagram of a screen display for a content detail page for a single content object of

FIG. 16

FIG. 18

is a diagram of a screen display used by HowZone administrators to add a new category to the category listing in the screen displays of

FIGS. 7 and 16

FIG. 19

is a diagram of a screen display illustrating the basic elements of an exemplary category network page for an â€œautomobilesâ€ category with a â€œtopâ€ parent category as viewed by a user.

FIG. 20

is a diagram of a dynamically generated category network corresponding with the screen displays of

FIGS. 7 and 16

, and illustrating the case where a dynamic category network includes two categories having multiple parents.

FIG. 21

is a diagram of a screen display for a â€œbusinessâ€ category page displaying â€œinclude filesâ€ for a header, a footer, and a commerce banner.

FIG. 22

is a diagram of the screen display of

FIG. 21

where the â€œbusinessâ€ category page includes a different commerce banner caused by using a different â€œincludeâ€ file for the commerce banner.

FIG. 23

is a diagram of a screen display similar to the screen display of

FIG. 22

, but wherein an original entry point is provided to the corresponding screen display, thereby illustrating a â€œmultiple-point-of-entryâ€ capability of the HowZone network.

FIG. 24

is a diagram of a screen display showing a link, found on each category page, and used to collect suggestions from users.

FIG. 25

is a diagram of a screen display for a user request form.

FIG. 26

is a diagram of a screen display for a HowZone administrative page used to approve user requests for new content.

FIG. 27

is a diagram of a screen display showing a freshly requested and approved content object provided within a HowZone category network.

FIG. 28

is a diagram of a screen display showing a content detail page for a content object which is not yet available on the HowZone system, and further showing information about the content object, and providing a link which enables a user to join a waitlist.

FIG. 29

is a diagram of a screen display showing a page where a user joins the waitlist.

FIG. 30

is a diagram of a screen display for a content detail page having a waitlist and showing a potential contributor that they can earn money for making this contribution.

FIG. 31

is a diagram showing the assembly of

FIGS. 32A through 32C

together form a diagram of a screen display providing a form usable by an expert to indicate their interest in making a specific contribution to the HowZone system.

FIG. 33

is a diagram showing the assembly of

FIGS. 34A and 34B

together form a diagram of a screen display for a HowZone.com administrative page that enables approval of a potential contributor to the HowZone system.

FIG. 35

is a diagram of a screen display for a â€œbusinessâ€ category entry present within a category network and below a â€œtopâ€ category entry.

FIG. 36

is a diagram of a screen display similar to that depicted in

FIGS. 34A and 34B

, but illustrating a â€œmultiple-point-of-entryâ€ category tree capability wherein the parent category â€œtopâ€ does not appear above the category â€œbusinessâ€ .

FIG. 37

is a diagram of a screen display illustrating an alternative vehicle for distributing content comprising a content object window which will be embedded within pages of other web sites.

FIG. 38

is a simplified schematic diagram of a point-of-purchase customer at a bricks and mortar store, and further showing merchandise containing a HowZone.com content distribution token having product-associated indicia, enabling a customer to remotely select aggregated content objects for their personal HowZone via a wireless web appliance.

FIG. 39

is an enlarged partial view of the wireless web appliance of

FIG. 38

further showing the user interface.

FIG. 40

is a diagram of a screen display for a user's personal HowZone, and showing a user graphically selecting a contributions link.

FIG. 41

is a diagram showing the assembly of

FIGS. 42A and 42B

together form a diagram of a screen display showing an exemplary list of contributions made by a user.

FIG. 43

is a diagram of a screen display for a content builder for a content object type of link.

FIG. 44

is a diagram of a screen display for a user's personal HowZone and including a recently approved content object which has appeared within a HowZone.com category network, and selected by the user for addition to their personal HowZone.

FIG. 45

is a diagram of a screen display for a content object that has been selected by user from within the user's personal HowZone, and which is presented within a separate window from the user's personal HowZone.

FIG. 46

is a diagram of a screen display of a content builder for a content object type of tutorial.

FIG. 47

is a diagram of a screen display illustrating a user selecting a file from the user's hard disk in order to upload using a HowZone.com content builder, wherein the uploaded files are stored on a HowZone.com web server.

FIG. 48

is a diagram of a screen display for a completed tutorial page with graphics being uploaded to HowZone.com.

FIG. 49

is a diagram of a screen display showing a content builder having one page, and further showing the contributor adding a second page.

FIG. 50

is a diagram showing the assembly of

FIGS. 51A and 51B

together form a diagram of a screen display showing a completed tutorial being saved into the HowZone.com system.

FIG. 52

is a diagram of a screen display for an administrative page usable by HowZone.com personnel, or staff, to approve a content object.

FIG. 53

is a diagram of a screen display for a content object type of tutorial illustrating a HowZone.com navigation system extending across a top-most portion of the screen display.

FIG. 54

is a diagram of a screen display illustrating a dynamically generated pop-up navigation tool present within the HowZone.com tutorial delivery system.

FIG. 55

is a diagram showing the assembly of

FIGS. 56A and 56B

together form a diagram of a screen display illustrating another page which is just been selected using the pop-up navigation tool of

FIG. 54

FIG. 57

is a diagram of a screen display showing a dedicated discussion forum that is provided with each tutorial, wherein users can discuss things that the users are learning.

FIG. 58

is a diagram of a screen display showing that each tutorial has a dedicated student note taking function, where users can keep personal notes similar to margin notes a person might write in the margin of a textbook.

FIG. 59

is a diagram of a screen display showing that tutorials can contain links to external Web pages, and that access to such pages is implemented via the same pop-up navigational tool present within the HowZone.com system.

FIG. 60

is a diagram showing the assembly of

FIGS. 61A and 61B

together form a diagram of a screen display showing an external web page appearing within the HowZone.com tutorial display and navigation system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance of the constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent Laws â€œto promote the progress of science and useful artsâ€ (Article 1, Section 8).

I. Overview

A system and a method are described for aggregating, enhancing, and distributing content objects with users over a network-based environment. According to one implementation, the users are customers and the content objects are provided by experts who desire to share information with such customers. First, a determination is made as to specific information that is desired by individuals. Secondly, a provider of information is encouraged to contribute information that matches the information that has been determined to be desired by individuals. Furthermore, contributors are given the ability to contribute information by uploading content and/or by distributing links to content that is available over a network system. Contributed information is distributed to individuals by making such information perceptible to individuals at distributed information access points. One technique entails making the information visually perceptible to individuals.

One suitable distributed information access point is provided by a token placed on a product, product packaging, a sign or an advertisement. Other distributed information access points comprise viewer perceptible screen displays on client computers or wireless web appliances. Distributed information access points enable placement of visually perceptible information in front of individuals, with distribution of such information being centralized through the network-based system. One form of a distributed information access point comprises a rich media banner ad. Another form of a distributed information access point involves co-branding information by placing a visually perceptible medium on a third-party web site where it can be viewed by an individual.

In order to organize links and/or uploaded content so that it can be viewed by individuals, a dynamically generated category network is implemented to sort and distribute information. By using a category network, portions of the network can be utilized to co-brand specific information using distributed access points.

A web site provided by Applicant's invention enables users to select links and/or content objects from the dynamically generated category network, placing such selections into a personalized access point. One form of such personalized access point comprises a personal web page present on Applicant's web site.

Yet another feature described below entails users ranking selected information, with the rankings giving indications that help other users select desirable information from Applicant's web site.

In order to learn more information about the specific information that individuals desire, a system and a method are provided to document and quantify demand for particular information that has been requested by an individual user. The quantification and documentation is carried out by sampling a world-wide user community which accesses Applicant's web site within a network environment and through use of a network system. Such a system and method use a user comment form, a centralized editorial and approval function, and a â€œJoin the Waitlistâ€ function. All of these functions are accessed through a distributed stand-alone access point, as will be described below with reference to the following figures and embodiments.

In operation, a user requests information, Applicant's web site (via a system administrator/staff) checks the requested information, then posts the request in public where other users can join a waiting list. The waiting list, or waitlist, publicly displays a proven demand to potential contributors of information.

In order to entice a potential contributor to contribute information that has been documented as being desired by specific individuals, a system and method are provided to use documented and quantified world-wide user demand for particular information in order to compel an individual and/or organization to contribute the particular information using a network system. In other words, a perspective contributor is shown a â€œwaiting listâ€ of users who desire particular information.

The system and method allow anyone to make a contribution by uploading web pages with graphics to be stored on Applicant's web site and system. The system and method then present the information to individuals who potentially desire such information. Additionally, users are allowed to provide links to other pages, and to add such links to Applicants' web site.

The system and method uses distributed information access points to more effectively reach a world-wide user community. User convenience is increased by providing a greater number of access points to information that is demographically selected to be more highly desired by users at that particular distribution point. The system and method uses a host web site that is connected to a world-wide network system in order to provide space for the distributed access points. The system and method also uses a centralized server system that is connected to a world-wide network system in order to provide the information and functionality found within the distributed access points. However, any type of network environment can be used. Applicant's system creates subsets of information, and loads the subsets of information into a file which can be included in a web page. A server on Applicant's web site then drives the information and functionality located in such file.

The use of a dynamically generated category network supports co-branding, wherein a portion of a category network is presented on a third-party web site. Information contained within distributed information access points is provided to a world-wide user community through the use of such dynamically generated category network and within a network system.

Personal web pages on Applicant's web site provide a system and method that allows any individual user within the world-wide user community to select information from any distributed stand-alone access point that is capable of being accessed within a network system. The information selected by any individual user is added to their own personalized, centralized consumption access point that is accessed with a network system. In one form, the personalized access point comprises a personal web site. Typically, such access is carried out using a client, such as a client computer. Accordingly, a user's personal web page keeps all of their collected information in one place, on a server of Applicant's web site.

Enabling users to rank selected information and drive content ranking simplifies the content object selection process of other users. Accordingly, contributors will be encouraged to do a good job so that they receive a relatively high ranking, and are listed higher within a listing on Applicant's web site that ranks orders from contributors based upon how highly they are ranked by previous users.

As will be described below in greater detail, staff and administrators at Applicant's web site are able to manage content categories, manage suggestions for content objects, manage content contributors, manage content objects, co-brand categories, and place commerce on content categories. Accordingly, the operation of Applicant's web site, as well as related web properties, is highly automated and is browser based. Accordingly, such administrative implementation scales, or can be increased in capacity or size, without limitation.

Content categories provide an organizational framework for Applicant's web site. The categories can be added, moved, hidden, deleted and have their appearance modified using a web browser by way of a dial-up or other Internet connection. Accordingly, a user does not need to be trained with HTML programming in order to carry out such tasks.

In order to manage suggestions for content objects, site visitors make suggestions which staff at Applicant's web site review and approve. The process consists of displaying an administrative page, as will be discussed below in greater detail. The administrative page contains suggestions, and the staff review and optimally reword such suggestions, then approve the content object for posting within one or more categories. This task is also performed using a web browser via an Internet connection.

For purposes of managing content contributors, content contributors are the organizations and individuals who contribute content objects to Applicant's web site. It is required that the content contributors be approved before they are allowed to make contributions to Applicant's web site. The process comprises displaying an administrative page that shows qualifications submitted by the contributors, reviewing the contributors, and approving the contributors. This task is also performed using a web browser and an Internet connection.

For purposes of managing content objects, content objects are assigned to one or more categories, with the content objects appearing within the category network for review, selection and use by site visitors. The content objects can be added, moved, edited, hidden or deleted using a web browser on an Internet connection.

With respect to co-branding of content categories, content categories are dynamically generated, database-driven web pages whose appearance is driven by separate files. Once these files have been assigned to a content category, the content category takes on the respective appearance assigned by such files. Based on input from sales and marketing personnel, staff at Applicant's web site will assign such files to these categories using a web browser on an Internet connection. According to one implementation, such files can be resident on a client's server, and can be maintained by the client. Alternately, such files can be uploaded and stored within the Applicant's system or another web server.

When placing commerce on content categories, content categories support commerce by assigning separate files which appear on the content categories. Once these commerce files have been assigned to respective content categories, commerce carried out within these categories is made visible to site visitors. Based on input from customers and sales and marketing personnel, staff at Applicant's web site will assign these commerce files to respective categories using a web browser and an Internet connection. The commerce files can also reside on a client's server, and can be maintained by such client.

II. Implementation Details

Reference will now be made to a preferred embodiment of Applicant's invention. One exemplary implementation is described below and depicted with reference to the drawings comprising a system and method for aggregating demand for information, compelling contributors to contribute content that satiates the demand, aggregating content so that users can easily access the aggregated content, enhancing the existing content, and distributing the content to users over a network system. While the invention is described by way of a preferred embodiment, it is understood that the description is not intended to limit the invention to this embodiment, but is intended to cover alternatives, equivalents, and modifications such as are included within the scope of the appended claims.

In an effort to prevent obscuring the invention at hand, only details germane to implementing the invention will be described in great detail, with presently understood peripheral details being incorporated by reference, as needed, as being presently understood in the art.

A. Client/Server Exemplary Architecture

FIG. 1

illustrates a preferred embodiment of Applicant's invention wherein a basic system configuration is provided for aggregating demand, enhancing content, and distributing content objects with customers, and is identified with reference numeral 100. System 100 is usable with an online network 102 within a network-based environment in the form of a networked computer system 104. According to one construction, network 102 is provided by the Internet 106, and more particularly, the World Wide Web (WWW) 108.

According to one construction, network 102 is a client/server network having one or more clients, such as clients 110 and 112, and a web server 114. According to one construction, client 110 comprises a client computer 111, client 112 comprises a client wireless system 113, and web server 114 comprises a web server computer 115. One suitable wireless system 113 comprises a cellular system.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term â€œclientâ€ is understood to include a workstation or a computer, such as a personal computer, a hand-held computer, or a portable electronic device such as a wireless web appliance having computing capabilities, and provided within a client/server environment. A â€œclientâ€ is also intended to include a device present in a network, such as the Internet, that includes a software program for enabling a user to interact with the network and send and receive files, electronic mail, and/or data. Even furthermore, â€œclientâ€ is intended to include, in a network environment, a computer or workstation connected to the network and the server and including web-enabled appliances, or any other device having processing capabilities. It is further understood that a â€œclientâ€ can include a software component such as a web browser.

Also for purposes of this disclosure, the term â€œserverâ€ is understood to include one or more computers located at one or more physical locations and having a hardware component that serves code and data to the World Wide Web (WWW), and includes a web server computer including a software program that receives, manages, and responds to requests for documents and files. For example, such request can be structured using Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), wherein the requests are processed and then sent back to the client. Furthermore, for the purposes of this disclosure, the term â€œserverâ€ is understood to include computers located at one or more physical locations. These computers are understood to have a hardware component that serves data from a relational database as well as computers which provide the logic processing to access database information that is used to dynamically generate the code and data served to the World Wide Web (WWW) by the web server computer.

As shown in

FIG. 1

, it is understood that one form of online network 102 comprises a networked computer system 104. Networked computer system 104 includes a web server computer 115 as well as client computer 111 and client wireless system 113.

More particularly, client computer 111 includes a web browser 120, including a web document 122. According to one construction, web browser 120 comprises a software program configured to enable a user to access files from any computer that is interconnected with the Internet 106. Web document 122 comprises an electronic page or document that is visually perceptible by a user as an image on a visually perceptible interface for a client, such as a client computer.

Similarly, client wireless system 113 includes web browser 120 and web document 122, wherein web browser 120 and web document 122 are provided within a wireless web appliance 126. Wireless web appliance 126 remotely communicates via a wireless network 124 and a communication medium, or link, 117 via the Internet 106 with online network 102. Furthermore, web server 114 communicates with Internet 106 via communication medium, or link, 118.

With respect to client computer 111 and client wireless system 113, two variations of a client 110 and 112 are illustrated which are suitable for implementing the features of Applicant's invention. For purposes of explanation, client 110 will be used for the following discussion. More particularly, web server computer 115 comprises a hardware component capable of serving code and data to the World Wide Web (WWW) 108. Web server computer 115 enables the implementation of web server 114, and includes a software program that receives, manages, and responds to client requests for web documents and files. Accordingly, web server 114 includes system 100 for aggregating, enhancing, and distributing content objects that are consumed by users over a network-based environment. Web server 114 includes a web site 128 upon which system 100 is implemented, and is viewable by a user with a web browser 120 at clients 110 and 112, respectively. Web site 128 includes one or more web pages 130 and a database 132, in which links of searchable content objects are catalogued, and from which such links and/or content objects can be retrieved by a user at client 110.

As shown in

FIG. 1

, web site 128 includes one or more web pages 130 and a database 132. Each web page 130 includes a unit of information provided in the form of a data unit that includes text and/or graphics, audio, video, and/or other dynamic media. Client 110 and/or 112 can be used by a user in order to present such a data unit on a screen to a user, such as an individual searching for content objects identified by links which are retrieved from database 132.

For purposes of this disclosure, individual web pages can be active and include â€œhot buttonsâ€ , or â€œclickable iconsâ€ , or â€œlinksâ€ which will also be referred to hereafter as â€œtriggersâ€ . â€œTriggersâ€ enable the launching of a simple application-software program and/or access to linked pages. It is understood that database 132 includes a collection of inter-related and/or non-related data including links that are stored together on web server computer 115, and which can include individual web sites that are accessible by a user via clients 110 and/or 112.

As also shown in

FIG. 1

, it is understood that a client computer 110 or 112 forms a general purpose machine capable of processing data by way of a set of instructions that is stored in a data storage device, such as memory. For the case where a computer is involved, the computer and peripheral components include hardware on which one or more software programs are implemented. Such hardware can include a processor or microprocessor; a hard disk drive; interface devices such as a display screen, a keyboard and a tactile input device; and other associated components that are readily understood in the art.

Furthermore, it is understood that web server computer 115 can include hardware such as one or more processors, or microprocessors; one or more data storage devices, such as a hard disk drive (HDD); memory, such as random access memory (RAM); and interface devices, such as a display screen, keyboard and/or a tactile input device.

As shown in

FIG. 1

, a visually perceptible medium 133, such as a token 134, can be applied directly on a product or on provided packaging, or printed on advertising materials, brochures, flyers or other notices. According to one construction, medium 133 comprises token 134, which is in the form of an adhesive applique or sticker on which an indicator 136 comprising indicia 135 is printed. In one form, indicia 135 includes an identification number that identifies a specific set of content objects, a single content object, or a link to one or more content objects. A user identifier 138, such as a user identification element, is presented by a user along with indicia 135 which has been retrieved by the user from token 134 at a visually perceptible location for submission to a client 110 or 112.

As utilized herein, the term â€œindicatorâ€ refers to anything that indicates, points out, shows or reveals something. Furthermore, the term â€œindiciaâ€ refers to an indicator such as an identifying marking or statement used to single out one thing from another thing, or to serve as a directional guide that shows the location, nature, quality or existence of something, such as an item.

According to

FIG. 1

, client computer 111 communicates with Internet 106 by way of a communication medium, or link, 116, such as an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) telecommunications line, or a landline telephone line. ISDN is an international telecommunications standard for transmitting voice, video and data over digital telephone lines. However, it is understood that communication medium 116 can also include an analog telephone line, or any other communication medium or communication link capable of interconnecting a client 110 with an online network 102.

According to the implementation illustrated by client wireless system 113, communication medium 117 comprises a wireless communication link provided between a wireless network 124, such as a cellular network, and the Internet 106. One presently commercially available implementation for client wireless system 113 is provided by Sprint PCS Wireless Web, a wireless internet solution comprising a client wireless system 113 presently available from Sprint PCS, P.O. Box 140, London, Ky. 40744-7960, with further information available on the World Wide Web (WWW) at http://www.sprintpcs.com/wireless/index.html. Such client wireless system 113 includes a wireless web appliance 126 comprising a wireless telephone, including a wireless web browser 120 on which web documents 122 are visually perceptible and viewable by a user remotely, and in a wireless manner with web server computer 115. Accordingly, such solution includes a wireless web connection that is provided between wireless web appliance 126 and wireless network 124. It is further understood that web browser 120 comprises a compact web browser that is capable of being implemented on a wireless web-enabled telephone. However, it is understood that wireless web appliance 126 can take the form of a laptop computer, a pen computer, a hand-held computer, an electronic organizer, or any other device having wireless connectivity and a web browser capable of being interconnected with the Internet 106.

According to another construction, it is envisioned that client wireless system 113 utilizes a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP). WAP comprises a carrier-independent, transaction-oriented protocol provided for wireless data networks, and designed for substantially all types of networks. One version of WAP has been initially implemented on GSM networks. Suitable wireless telephones, such as digital wireless telephones, are presently available from Nokia Americas, of Irving, Tex.; Erickson North America, of Richardson, Tex.; and Motorola, Inc., of Schaumburg, Ill., which are capable of being utilized with WAP Version 1.1, which was released in June 1999. These web telephones include relatively large viewable screens and a scrolling mouse such that a visually interactive computer telephony system is provided to a user that enables remote and wireless connectivity via web browser 120 with web sites such as web site 128 on web server computer 115. However, it is understood that other wireless technologies can also be used.

As illustrated in

FIG. 1

, a visually perceptible medium 133 is presented for visual identification to a user of client 110 or client 112. Where a user visually perceives medium 133 at client 110, typically medium 133 comprises a portion of a screen display which is displayed to a user on a monitor of client computer 111 by way of web browser 120. As will be described below with reference to

FIGS. 5-59

, there exist a number of embodiments for presenting medium 133 in a visually perceptible manner to a user at client 110.

According to another implementation, medium 133 is presented to a user in a visually perceptible manner. The user visually identifies indicia 135, then logs into web site 128 via Internet 106 and wireless web appliance 126. The user then submits an identification number 136, comprising indicia 135, and their user identifier 138 to web server computer 115 such that content objects associated with identification number 136 are made available to this user via a network-based personalized access point within web site 128, as will be discussed below in greater detail. It is further understood that such selection of content objects may be carried out on behalf of the User by another user or automated selection system as directed by the user.

For example, the selection of content objects may be carried out by a clerk at a cash register within a store on behalf of a customer. Similarly, the selection of content objects can be carried out by a salesperson at a sales booth within a trade show on behalf of a user wherein the user carries a smart card that identifies the user and the user's personal web page, and the salesperson swipes the smart card into a card reader in order to retrieve the user's identification. An even further example contemplates such selection of content objects being carried out when a user purchases a product at a web site, and the web site checkout page requires an inputting of personal user and payment information, and includes a checkbox that directs the transfer of information into the user's personal web page when the user checks the box.

According to such implementation, a user selects indicia 135 at one location using appliance 126, and consumes information that corresponds with indicia 135 at another location. For example, a user submits indicia 135 via web appliance 126, then receives content objects and/or links to content objects and consumes content objects corresponding with indicia 135 when they return home from the store using their home-based personal computer. The content objects can be consumed directly by viewing received content, or by accessing content objects using links.

Accordingly, client wireless system 113 comprises a mobile internet service that allows access by way of links which are retrieved from web site 128 to content objects present within online network 102. The collection of such content objects, the provision of such content objects, and the availability with which such content objects are aggregated, ranked, distributed, dispersed, and received by the user falls within the novel aspects of Applicant's invention, as described below with reference to

FIGS. 2-61

Accordingly, system 100 of

FIG. 1

enables the aggregation of content objects according to the process flow diagram of

FIG. 2

, and as detailed in

FIGS. 5-61

. Furthermore, system 100 enables the enhancement of aggregated content objects by assessing demand for content and compelling content providers to contribute content objects to the network, as described below with reference to the process flow diagram of

FIG. 3

, and further in reference to

FIGS. 5-61

. Even furthermore, system 100 illustrates one technique for distributing aggregated content objects to users by way of a wireless web appliance, and by using product-associated indicia that identify a set of predefined, yet dynamic aggregated content objects, as shown in the process flow diagram of

FIG. 4

and in reference to

FIGS. 5-61

It is understood that system 100 aggregates content objects in a number of different ways.

FIG. 2

illustrates one implementation for aggregating content objects, as will be described below with reference to

FIG. 2

. System 100 also enhances aggregated content objects by assessing the demand for content and compelling content providers to contribute content objects to the network.

FIG. 3

illustrates one exemplary implementation for enhancing aggregated content objects in such manner. System 100 also distributes aggregated content objects to users by way of a wireless web appliance and product-associated indicia that identify a set of predefined, yet dynamic aggregated content objects.

FIG. 4

illustrates one exemplary implementation for distributing such aggregated content objects to users. However, it is understood, with respect to the implementations depicted in

FIGS. 2-4

, that other implementations are readily known for aggregating, enhancing and distributing content objects to users, as will be described below with reference to screen displays 5-61. Furthermore, it is understood that alternative implementations will be readily understood with reference to the following general discussion relating to the novel aspects of Applicant's invention.

In order to better understand the claimed aspects of Applicant's invention, a detailed example is presented below for aggregating content objects, enhancing aggregated content objects, and distributing aggregated content objects with respect to

FIGS. 2-4

, respectively.

FIG. 2

forms a process flow diagram showing the logic processing for aggregating content objects using system 100 (of

FIG. 1

). More particularly,

FIG. 2

illustrates logic processing used to aggregate content objects.

As shown in

FIG. 2

, a logic flow diagram illustrates the steps implemented by the system of Applicant's invention when aggregating content objects.

In Step â€œS1â€ , a web site on a web server provides a database capable of being associated with content objects that are accessible over a communication medium. One such database comprises database 132 of web site 128, accessible over one or more of communication links 116, 117, and 118 (of

FIG. 1

). After performing Step â€œS1â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œS2â€ .

In Step â€œS2â€ , the system associates one or more content objects with a distribution mechanism. One suitable distribution mechanism is provided by a visually perceptible medium 133 in the form of token 134 having indicia 135 such as identification number 136. It is understood that identification number 136 can take a number of forms, including numerical code, alpha-numeric code, alpha code, universal product code (UPC), electronic product code (EPC), or bar code. Another form of distribution mechanism is the utilization of any other form of visually perceptible medium 133, such as presenting an icon, window, banner, or electronic token over a visually perceptible interface to a user, such as a display of a client computer 111 (of

FIG. 1

). After performing Step â€œS2â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œS3â€ .

In Step â€œS3â€ , an individual requests a desired content object for personal consumption from distributed information access points such as a visually perceptible medium. Various forms of a visually perceptible medium are envisioned, including one or more objects and/or links located within a web page, a portion of a co-branded web page, a banner, a button, a clickable icon, a clickable graphic, or a hypertext link located on someone else's web page, a content object token, and/or a networked device such as a networked cash register, bar code scanner or electronic product code reader. After performing Step â€œS3â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œS4â€ .

In Step â€œS4â€ , requested content objects or links to content objects are received into a network-based personalized access point. One such network-based personalized access point comprises a personal web page located within a web site 128 of a web server computer 115 in system 100 (of

FIG. 1

). After performing Step â€œS4â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œS5â€ .

In Step â€œS5â€ , the requested content objects are dynamically modified to provide subscribing users with access to current or modified information within their personalized access point. After performing Step â€œS5â€ , the aggregating of content objects of Applicant's invention terminates.

It is understood that

FIG. 1

illustrates one aspect of Applicant's invention. However, it is also understood that Applicant's invention can be applied to any device that is capable of connecting to a network-based environment such as intranets, or any interconnected arrangement of devices capable of aggregating and distributing information to users.

FIG. 3

forms a process flow diagram showing the logic processing for enhancing aggregated content objects by assessing demand for content and compelling content providers to contribute content objects to a network.

In Step â€œSS1â€ , a server of Applicant's web site receives a suggestion from a user for a new content object for addition to a database. For example, database 132 of web site 128 can be accessed by a user via client 110 in order to suggest a new content object which is to be added to database 132 (of

FIG. 1

). Optionally, client 112 can be used to access database 132 where full web browser capabilities are provided on the corresponding wireless web appliance. After performing Step â€œSS1â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œSS2â€ .

In Step â€œSS2â€ , a third party, such as a provider and/or web site administrator for web site 128, approves the suggested content object. For example, a web administrator can review the suggested new content object of Step â€œSS1â€ , then approve the suggested content object, thereby presenting the suggested content object onto a web page 130 of web site 128 (of

FIG. 1

). After performing Step â€œSS2â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œSS3â€ .

In Step â€œSS3â€ , a list of information users desiring the content object, or a waitlist, is generated or created which includes information users that desire the suggested or approved content object. After performing Step â€œSS3â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œSS4â€ .

In Step â€œSS4â€ , an information provider is compelled to generate the desired content object which was suggested, approved and placed onto a waitlist, based at least in part on demand that is identified by the generated waitlist. After performing Step â€œSS4â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œSS5â€ .

In Step â€œSS5â€ , the generated content object is contributed, or made available, to the database. For example, a generated content object is consequently added to database 132 of web site 128 (of

FIG. 1

). After performing Step â€œSS5â€ , the process proceeds to Step â€œSS6â€ .

In Step â€œSS6â€ , users placed on waitlists are notified of the availability of a requested content object. Accordingly, users who have previously joined a waiting list, or waitlist, are notified that a content object that they are waiting for is now available. Such users can then gain access to the content object. For example, one notification technique involves notifying the users by e-mail where an e-mail message contains a clickable link that allows a user to add the content object to their personal web page by clicking on the link. After performing Step â€œSS6â€ , the process is terminated.

As shown in

FIG. 4

, a logic flow diagram illustrates the steps implemented by the system of Applicant's invention showing part of the logic processing for distributing aggregated content objects to users by way of a wireless web appliance and product-associated indicia that identify a set of predefined, yet dynamic aggregated content objects.

In Step â€œSSS1â€ , a database is provided on a server at a first location. The database is operative to store indicators that are associated with the content objects. The content objects are accessible over a communication link. After performing Step â€œSSS1â€ , the proceeds to Step â€œSSS2â€ .

In Step â€œSSS2â€ , an individual or user observes a visually perceptible medium in the form of a token upon which an indicator such as visually perceptible indicia is/are provided or pres