U.S. patent application number 10/782733 was filed with the patent office on 2004-12-16 for bio-photonic feedback control software and database.
Invention is credited to Breiter, David L., Distel, Marvin, Erickson, Joel, Fralick, John, Gilbert, Mindy, Newman, Ryan, Peterson, Jack.
Application Number | 20040254479 10/782733 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33513822 |
Filed Date | 2004-12-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040254479 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fralick, John ; et
al. |
December 16, 2004 |
Bio-photonic feedback control software and database
Abstract
A process, apparatus, and method for computerized detection,
tracking, and feedback control of nutritional supplements in an
animal, including humans relies on Raman scattering effects on skin
or other tissues to determine the content of carotenoids or other
nutrients as evidenced in that skin. Serum levels of nutrients may
vary dramatically with time, but skin tissues may average such
nutrition over time. Skin and other tissues may be scanned with
light to produce accurate measurements of carotenoids or other
nutrients accumulated in the skin based on the Raman scattering
affect of those nutrients in the skin. A score can be derived from
a properly calibrated bio-photonic scanner to reflect an averaged
effective uptake of the detected nutrient (e.g. such as the
carotenoid example). This feedback control is thus much more
immediate than any anecdotal, long-term, report of general well
being, which would vary so much between individuals as to be nearly
impossible to ascertain on an individual level, and difficult,
invasive, and expensive to determine individually in a conventional
clinical procedure.
Inventors: |
Fralick, John; (Salt Lake
City, UT) ; Breiter, David L.; (Orem, UT) ;
Peterson, Jack; (Provo, UT) ; Gilbert, Mindy;
(Cedar Hills, UT) ; Distel, Marvin; (Albuquerque,
NM) ; Newman, Ryan; (Elk Ridge, UT) ;
Erickson, Joel; (Spanish Fork, UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PATE PIERCE & BAIRD
215 SOUTH STATE STREET, SUITE 550
PARKSIDE TOWER
SALT LAKE CITY
UT
84111
US
|
Family ID: |
33513822 |
Appl. No.: |
10/782733 |
Filed: |
February 19, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60448996 |
Feb 20, 2003 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
600/477 ;
356/301 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 40/12 20131203;
A61B 5/0059 20130101; G16H 70/60 20180101; G16H 50/30 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/477 ;
356/301 |
International
Class: |
A61B 006/00 |
Claims
What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States Letters
Patent is:
1. A process for computerized feedback control of administration of
nutritional supplements in an organism, the process comprising:
providing a device effective to conduct a test comprising measuring
tissue of a subject non-invasively, non-destructively, and in vivo,
ascertaining the concentration of a selected molecular structure
therein, and outputting a value corresponding thereto; calibrating
the device by operating the device to illuminate calibrated test
samples to provide corresponding results by which to adjust
repeatability of operation of the device; illuminating tissue of a
user by the device and detecting by the device from a response
thereto a first measurement representing a first concentration of
the selected molecular structure in the tissue at a first time;
analyzing and storing by the device the first measurement to
provide to the subject a first output reflecting the first
concentration; selecting nutritional supplements corresponding to
the selected molecular structure; administering through ingestion
by the subject the nutritional supplements over a period of time;
calibrating the device using a dark scan and the calibrated test
samples to correct performance of the device over time;
illuminating tissue of a user and detecting by the device a second
measurement representing second concentration of the selected
molecular structure at a second time; and analyzing and storing by
the device the second measurement and outputting to the subject a
second output reflecting the second concentration.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein calibrating further comprises
providing a dark scan illuminating a target returning substantially
no significant signal corresponding to the selected molecular
structure in order to correct the first and second measurements
thereby.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein calibrating further comprises
providing a scan of a calibrated, artificial, test samples as
substitutes for subjects.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein calibrating further comprises
providing a scan of a plurality of test samples for scaling the
first and second measurements
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising tracking by the device
a compensation distribution to entities providing the nutritional
supplement.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing a server
configured to upload data gathered from the device and control
authorization for operation of the device.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the server is programmed to
calculate compensation owed to entities responsible for
distribution of the nutritional supplement.
8. The method of claim 6, further comprising providing a
communication interface to communicate between the device and a
communications link operably connected to the server.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising generating a
certificate redeemable as compensation exchangeable for conducting
a test.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising distributing the
certificate to a subject.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising redeeming, by the
subject the certificate by conducting a test to determine the first
measurement.
12. The method of claim 10, further comprising distributing the
certificate to a subject and redeeming thereof by the subject by
conducting a test to determine the second measurement.
13. The method of claim 10, further comprising: distributing the
certificate to a subject and redeeming thereof by the subject by
conducting a first test to determine the first measurement; and
distributing a second certificate to a subject and redeeming
thereof by the subject by conducting a second test to determine the
second measurement; and distributing to the subject the nutritional
supplement directed to altering a third measurement to a value
greater than the second measurement.
14. An apparatus for testing by non-destructive, non-invasive,
illumination and re-radiation response of concentrations of
selected molecular structures in biological tissue, the apparatus
comprising: a testing device configured to take measurements of a
selected molecular structure present in biological tissue of a
subject; a computing device operably connected to the testing
device to provide an analysis of the measurements to determine a
level of nutrient intake and delivery to the biological tissue
corresponding to the selected molecular structure; and a
communications device to transmit data reflecting the analysis to a
remote location for storage and processing.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising a computer
readable medium providing for execution on the server an executable
to track, analyze, and distribute funds for administration of
nutritional supplements.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising: a plurality of
testing devices assigned to operators thereof, wherein: testing
devices of the plurality of testing devices are mobile and
independent from one another, and each testing device is configured
to perform tests by illuminating and measuring a radiant response
from live tissue and to determine a corresponding value reflecting
concentration of a selected molecular structure relating to
nutrition of subjects.
17. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a server at the
remote location configured to receive directly uploaded data
gathered by the plurality of testing devices, the server being
programmed to track and calculate compensation due to each operator
corresponding to tests performed thereby.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a communications
link to operably connect each testing device to the server.
19. A method for testing individuals for levels of nutrients, the
method comprising: providing, to an operator, a testing device
effective to measure a selected indicator of a subject; measuring,
by the operator, the selected indicator; classifying the subject
within a class of individuals having common characteristics;
comparing the selected indicator measured in the subject to others
in the class; inferring, from the measurement, a level of nutrients
existing in the subject; and providing, to the subject, a health
supplement directed to altering the level.
20. An apparatus for tracking and distributing royalty payments
owed to a licensor for use of a product, the apparatus comprising:
a plurality of testing devices licensed from a licensor thereof,
wherein: each testing device of the plurality of testing devices is
structured to be mobile and independent from one another, and each
testing device is further configured to measure selected molecular
structures in live tissues of each subject tested thereby; a server
configured to upload directly data corresponding to use of the
testing devices, wherein the server tracks data accumulated by each
testing device, data corresponding to each subject, compensation
due to each operator of each testing device, and royalty payments
due to the licensor in accordance with the use the the plurality of
testing devices; and a communications link operably connecting each
testing device to the server.
Description
1. RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/448,996 entitled SEAMLESS GLOBAL
COMPENSATION SYSTEM filed Feb. 20, 2003.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to digital computers and photonic
scanners, and more particularly, to unique apparatus and methods
for timely, computerized, detection, tracking, and feedback control
of the biological uptake of targeted nutrients.
[0004] 2. The Background Art
[0005] The world of electronics and optical measurement systems is
broad, varied, and has a long, colorful history. Systems for
detection of optics by virtue of radar signatures, infrared
signatures, and other spectral signatures have been used for
decades. Accordingly, methods of detection and signal processing
are plentiful.
[0006] In ancient times, nutrition and the art or science of the
use of various herbs and naturally occurring compositions has been
useful to the human race. In modern times, nutrition has received
much public exposure as a science. The public is educated through
schools, advertising, publications, government programs, and the
like in order to improve nutritional habits. The field of
pharmaceuticals, typically perceived to be either synthetic or
processed drugs and medicaments has blended with nutritional
sciences, and the art or science of herbal treatments and remedies.
Nutriceuticals are products that fall in the area of nutritional
and herbal materials that may provide additional remedial
benefits.
[0007] Multi-level marketing has been a method of direct sale of
products for many years. Multi-level marketing is built upon
incentive programs whereby rewards are allocated to individuals and
entities for the sale of product and the management of
organizations. Typically, all proceeds derived from product sales
are distributed according to an organizational genealogy relating
various sales persons or dealers to managers and directors
responsible for recruiting, training, motivating, supplying, and so
forth, the front-line dealers. Compensation systems are themselves
an art form of sorts. Moreover, management systems in organizations
of all types have developed into various art forms, sciences, and
the like, depending on one's view point and approach.
[0008] In the area of optics and detectors, U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,354
B1 issued Mar. 20, 2001 to Gellerman et. al. is directed to a
method and apparatus for non-evasive measurement of carotenoids and
related chemical substances and biological tissue. This patent is
incorporated herein by reference. The method and apparatus of
Gellerman et al. provide a non-invasive, rapid, accurate and safe
determination of carotenoid levels, which, in turn, can provide
diagnostic information regarding risk of disease or markers for
conditions, such as carotenoids, or other antioxidant compounds.
The method and apparatus utilize the technic of Resonance Raman
Spectroscopy to measure the levels of carotenoids and similar
substances in tissue.
[0009] In this technique, laser light is directed upon an area of
tissue of interest. A small fraction of the scattered light is
scattered inelastically, producing the carotenoid Raman signal,
which is at a different frequency than the incident laser light.
The Raman signal is collected, filtered, and measured. The
resulting Raman signal can be analyzed such that the background
fluorescent signal is subtracted and the results displayed and
compared with known calibration standards.
[0010] Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,831 issued Feb. 23, 1999 to
Bernstein et. al. is directed to a method and system for
measurement of macular carotenoid levels. This system, method, and
apparatus provide for the determination of macular carotenoid
levels. The invention measures the levels of macular carotenoid
pigments, as well as other retinal materials. Monochromatic laser
light is projected onto a retina, preferably in the macular area. A
very sensitive detection system then takes the light scattered on
the retina. Raman scattered light is selected and routed to a
detection system, where the results are calibrated into actual
standards for the particular retinal material being tested.
[0011] In the nutritional supplement area, much has been stated in
technical, academic, trade, and consumer literature regarding
antioxidants. Carotenoids are considered to be an antioxidant. Many
herbs, foods, and processed compositions thereof provide
antioxidants, including carotenoids.
[0012] In the area of multi-level marketing, U.S. Pat. No.
6,421,648 B 1 issued Jul. 16, 2002 to Gagnon et. al. is directed to
a data processing system for the management of a differential
continuous compensation claim. This patent identifies a data
processing system provided for monitoring and recording information
flow and data, and making calculations necessary for maintaining a
differential continuous compensation plan identified therein.
[0013] Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 6,415,265 B1 issued Jul. 2, 2002 to
Shell et. al., along with its sibling U.S. Pat. No. 6,408,281 B1
and parent U.S. Pat. No. 6,134,533 are directed to a multi-level
marketing computer network server to integrate collection of a
payment via the network and automatically distribute product with
the calculation of commissions via the network.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,734,838 issued Mar. 31, 1998 to Robinson et.
al. is directed to a database computing architecture for managing
an incentive award program, and checking float of funds at the time
of purchase. U.S. Pat. No. 5,537,314 issued Jul. 16, 1996 to Kanter
is directed to a referral recognition system for an incentive award
system. U.S. Pat. No. 5,202,826, issued Apr. 13, 1993 to McCarthy
is directed to a centralized consumer cash accumulation system for
multiple merchants, wherein credit value may be based upon
predetermined incentives associated with a transaction such as
coupons, rebates, discounts, credit rate, or a combination
thereof.
[0015] Individuals often consult a doctor. The medical world is
often reputed to be directed toward management by exception. That
is, medical professionals are typically consulted for, and
typically respond to, either acute or chronic symptoms of
imbalance, trauma, stress, or ill condition. The nutritional
science community is directed toward proper nutrition and
maintenance of good health. Often, a non-medical health or
nutrition inventory is simply not considered or done. It may be
useful to a healthy individual to determine a status of
antioxidants or carotenoid concentrations in the body.
[0016] Accordingly, it would be an advance in the art to provide a
system for timely, non-medical diagnostic measurements of
antioxidants, such as carotenoid content, as represented by the
carotenoid content in skin. It would be a further advance in the
art to couple this evaluation process with availability of
nutritional supplements recognized for their antioxidant content,
such as carotenoids.
[0017] It would be yet a further advance in the art to combine such
a system with a marketing management and incentive system to
compensate those who perform such inventories on healthy subjects,
and those who market nutritional supplements associated with or
directed to increasing amounts of targeted nutritional constituents
(e.g., antioxidants, carotenoids, minerals, etc.), while managing
the data relating the technological devices, the operators, the
subjects, the consumers, and the marketing organizations.
BRIEF SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0018] Accordingly, a method and apparatus in accordance with the
present invention provide an integration of a technological device
in accordance with the work of Gellerman, et al., applied to a
process of inventory scanning of individuals for particular content
of selected nutritional elements in the skin. One such nutritional
element is the class of substances characterized as antioxidants
and more particularly, a class of substances classified as
carotenoids.
[0019] In certain embodiments, a system and method in accordance
with the invention may provide computer code for communication
between various computer systems. The system may include a laser
illumination device and appropriate detection system, each
including sufficient controller capacity for execution of their
functions, and connected to other computational capacity to process
the signals of the detector. Accordingly, such a system make take
data, remove error, compensate for background noise, and ultimately
fit the data to a curve or histogram providing an intensity value
corresponding to a range of optical or other frequencies.
[0020] A computation system may be programmed to provide controls
for the laser scanner and detection system, along with software to
control the prompting and instruction of an operator, thus
minimizing the skill level required of an operator. That is, much
instrumentation is created strictly for the use of those highly
skilled in the science to which it pertains. Moreover, much
instrumentation is sufficiently complex, with only rudimentary
controls, thus requiring a high level of skill and knowledge of
both the science and the hardware in order to conduct operations.
In a method and apparatus in accordance with the invention, a user
interface programmed into a computer connected to a laser scanner
may provide for simplified operation by a non-professional and
non-technical operator.
[0021] Accordingly, the scanner takes data, provided to the master
or host computer, and processes that data to determine the
intensity of a Raman-Scattering response of the skin of a subject,
as a result of laser illumination in a particular spectral band.
The computer thus processes the data and provides a display to a
user or operator regarding the content of the skin of a subject.
For example, the carotenoid level may be identified directly, or
identified in a relative sense as a score that may be compared with
previous and subsequent scanning results.
[0022] The master computer may log data and upload it to a
centrally based computer operated by an owner or affiliated company
or other entity. For example, over a direct link or a world wide
web link, the master computer may upload data regarding one or more
scanning sessions to the central computer. Thus, many subjects over
long periods of time may be tracked and recorded in a database.
[0023] Meanwhile, a system of method in accordance with the
invention may provide for computer programs comprising executables
and operational data for tracking and allocating compensation
transfers between licensors of technology, operators of scanning
devices used for taking inventory, sellers of nutritional
supplements, and management organizations and individuals
responsible for distributing nutritional supplements and motivating
or training sales forces.
[0024] The central computing facility may track subjects,
operators, sellers of nutritional supplements, organizational
entities and individuals, managing, training, and distributing to
supplement dealers, in order to allocate commissions for tasks
performed thereby. Likewise, where technology such as a scanning
device may be leased or licensed, royalties payable to owners of
intellectual property may be calculated by a central computing
facility. Likewise, systems may be programmed to allocate financial
distributions to all entities involved. They may provide data for
computers to actually apply credits or print checks, compensating
individual entities having an association with the scanning
process, the sales process, the manufacturing process, the
distribution process, and so forth, associated with a cycle of
scanning, and delivering supplements.
[0025] In one embodiment, a system and method in accordance with
the invention may provide a scanner conducting multiple dozens of
scans over some period of time. For example, in one embodiment,
thirty scans of a subject may occur in approximately twenty
seconds. Many data points may be collected. In one embodiment,
2,048 data points are collected with each scan for reading. Thus,
thirty scans in approximately twenty seconds, each with 2,048 data
points, may represent various pixels on a detector. That is, a
detector may detect a light intensity for each of multiple
frequencies received. In one embodiment, a charge-coupled device
provides multiple pixels, each identified with a specific
frequency, and each capable of integrating an intensity during a
particular scan. Thus, the intensity of photons in a pixel identify
the intensity at the subject frequency corresponding to the
pixel.
[0026] Relying on Raman-Scattering, a frequency shift occurs
between the input signal, illuminating the skin of a subject
(consumer), resulting in an output back to a detector at a
different end characteristic frequency. The curve fit of the
overall detection spectrum can be processed to identify the
intensity over the frequency range corresponding to carotenoid
content of the user. In certain embodiments, noise may be
calibrated out by comparing illuminations of neutral, opaque
materials, and materials of known carotenoid content as well as
unilluminated backgrounds in order to adjust the device field.
[0027] In certain embodiments, the scanner self-controls itself at
some level of hardware. Typically, the hardware level is quite low,
and the computational requirement is minimal for the self-control
of a laser illumination source and a detector, such as a charged
coupled device (CCD). A scanner containing a laser illumination
source and a detector with the basic level of controls may connect
to additional computation facility in another digital computer,
such as a laptop, personal digital assistant, desktop computer, or
the like. In the main computer or master computer to which the
detector may connect, a dynamic link library may contain the
processing applications required in order to take, process, log,
and manage data. Meanwhile, other applications may connect through
API (application programming interfaces) in order to access library
routines, objects, or other executables.
[0028] Processing may include averaging multiple scan intensities,
conducting dark scans to measure environmental noise, calibrating
the reading of neutral background and a pre-determined level of
detectible carotenoids in a calibration sample, compensating for
temperature or other environmental factors, and the like.
[0029] The master computer may also include a user interface to
provide prompting of a user (operator) in scanning a subject.
Likewise, user interface may provide for prompts in database intake
templates to obtain subject data, demographic information,
environmental information, or any other data that may be useful
either to the scanner or to the organization that may ultimately
interact with the subject in marketing and tracking delivery of
nutritional supplements. The user interface may provide a variety
of processes for security, authorization, and other controls in
order to ensure proper and authorized usage, reporting, and other
compliance.
[0030] In one embodiment, a scanner may be operated by an operator
who provides to a subject (consumer, visitor, customer, etc.) a
result representing a score corresponding to antioxidant content
such as carotenoid content in the skin of the subject. A consumer
may pay to have a scan conducted. That is, individuals have their
blood pressure checked at clinics, stores, and various other
locations. Similarly, a consumer may go to a nutrition supplement
store and have a carotenoid scan conducted.
[0031] In some embodiments of an apparatus and method in accordance
with the invention, a purveyor of nutritional supplements may
provide a certificate, such as a gift certificate, to a consumer or
prospective customer, which certificate may be redeemed with any
one of members of a network of people who operate scanners.
Accordingly, the certificate, once redeemed, results in a
certificate number or other identification corresponding to the
operator and scanning machine that conducted the scan. Likewise,
the certificate may have already been identified with the purveyor
of nutritional supplements. By conducting intake questioning of the
subject, the scanning operator can also link to the scan and
certify the identification of the subject.
[0032] Subsequently, if and when a subject determines to purchase
nutritional supplement products, a database system provided with
the identification and information corresponding to the scanner,
the operator, the certificate, and the subject may link a seller of
product. Accordingly, a database system may contain enough
information for processing of compensation systems for all parties
and devices involved in the scanning, motivation, and delivery
corresponding to the traditional supplements purchased by a
customer.
[0033] Accordingly, each consumer (customer) may be tracked and
further motivated by subsequent delivery of certificates valid for
subsequent scanning in order to monitor skin carotenoid content in
accordance with on-going ingestion of nutritional supplements
directed thereto.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] The foregoing and other objects and features of the present
invention will become more fully apparent from the following
description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments
in accordance with the invention and are, therefore, not to be
considered limiting of its scope, the invention will be described
with additional specificity and detail through use of the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a digital computer
system such as may be used in various components in an apparatus
and method in accordance with the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a seamless, global,
compensation system operable over a system of computers for
managing a multi-level marketing system and a consumer scanning
process;
[0037] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an alternative
embodiment of a seamless, global, compensation system operating
both over the Internet and through direct connection to the
system;
[0038] FIG. 4 is an alternative embodiment of a seamless, global,
compensation system in accordance with the present invention,
operable completely over Internet connections;
[0039] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of an alternative
embodiment of a seamless, global, compensation system in
conjunction with a scanner system operable over the Internet and
through direct connections;
[0040] FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of a process for
generating and redeeming certificates as a motivation for purchase
of products related to conditions scanned in accordance with the
invention;
[0041] FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a process for
demonstrating a coordinated scanning system and a product system in
order to scan for a condition addressed by the product;
[0042] FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a service core
including data and executables for managing and presenting
multi-level marketing information and associated scanning
information;
[0043] FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
process in accordance with the invention for allocating financial
distributions in accordance with a product, a scanning system, and
a global network of relationships between individual entities;
[0044] FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
scanner and master processor that may operate as a scanning system
and user-interface host in accordance with the invention;
[0045] FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a process for
controlling authorization and operation of a scanner in accordance
with the invention;
[0046] FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
method of operation of a scanner and associated user-interface host
connected thereto; and
[0047] FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
system of modules resident in memory of a computer in order to
operate and integrate a system of scanning in accordance with the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0048] It will be readily understood that the components of the
present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the
Figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed
description of the embodiments of systems and methods in accordance
with the present invention, as represented in FIGS. 1 through 13,
is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed,
but is merely representative of certain examples of presently
contemplated embodiments in accordance with the invention. The
presently described embodiments will be best understood by
reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by
like numerals throughout.
[0049] Many of the functional units described in this specification
have been labeled as modules, executables, systems, servers, and
the like in order to more particularly emphasize their
implementation independence. For example, modules may be
implemented in software for execution by various types of
processors. An identified module of executable code may, for
instance, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of
computer instructions which may, for instance, be organized as an
object, procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executables of an
identified module need not be physically located together, but may
comprise disparate instructions stored in different locations
which, when joined logically together, comprise the module and
achieve the stated purpose for the module. For example, a module of
executable code may be a single instruction, or many instructions,
and may even be distributed over several different code segments,
among different programs, and across several memory devices.
[0050] Modules may also be implemented in hardware as electronic
circuits comprising custom VLSI circuitry, off-the-shelf
semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete
components. A module may also be implemented in programmable
hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays,
programmable array logic, programmable logic devices or the
like.
[0051] Similarly, operational data may be identified and
illustrated herein within modules, and may be embodied in any
suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data
structure. The operational data may be collected as a single data
set, or may be distributed over different locations including over
different storage devices, and may exist, at least partially,
merely as electronic signals on a system or network.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 1, an apparatus 10 may implement the
invention on one or more nodes 11, (client 11, computer 11)
containing a processor 12 (CPU 12). All components may exist in a
single node 11 or may exist in multiple nodes 11, 52 remote from
one another. The CPU 12 may be operably connected to a memory
device 14. A memory device 14 may include one or more devices such
as a hard drive or other non-volatile storage device 16, a
read-only memory 18 (ROM 18) and a random access (and usually
volatile) memory 20 (RAM 20 or operational memory 20).
[0053] The apparatus 10 may include an input device 22 for
receiving inputs from a user or from another device. Similarly, an
output device 24 may be provided within the node 11, or accessible
within the apparatus 10. A network card 26 (interface card) or port
28 may be provided for connecting to outside devices, such as the
network 30.
[0054] Internally, a bus 32, or plurality of buses 32, may operably
interconnect the processor 12, memory devices 14, input devices 22,
output devices 24, network card 26 and port 28. The bus 32 may be
thought of as a data carrier. As such, the bus 32 may be embodied
in numerous configurations. Wire, fiber optic line, wireless
electromagnetic communications by visible light, infrared, and
radio frequencies may likewise be implemented as appropriate for
the bus 32 and the network 30.
[0055] Input devices 22 may include one or more physical
embodiments. For example, a keyboard 34 may be used for interaction
with the user, as may a mouse 36 or stylus pad 37. A touch screen
38, a telephone 39, or simply a telecommunications line 39, may be
used for communication with other devices, with a user, or the
like. Similarly, a scanner 40 may be used to receive graphical
inputs, which may or may not be translated to other formats. The
hard drive 41 or other memory device 41 may be used as an input
device whether resident within the node 11 or some other node 52
(e.g. 52, 54, etc.) on the network 30, or from another network
50.
[0056] Output devices 24 may likewise include one or more physical
hardware units. For example, in general, the port 28 may be used to
accept inputs into and send outputs from the node 11. Nevertheless,
a monitor 42 may provide outputs to a user for feedback during a
process, or for assisting two-way communication between the
processor 12 and a user. A printer 44, a hard drive 46, or other
device may be used for outputting information as output devices
24.
[0057] In general, a network 30 to which a node 11 connects may, in
turn, be connected through a router 48 to another network 50. In
general, two nodes 11, 52 may be on a network 30, adjoining
networks 30, 50, or may be separated by multiple routers 48 and
multiple networks 50 as individual nodes 11, 52 on an internetwork.
The individual nodes 52 (e.g. 11, 48, 52, 54) may have various
communication capabilities.
[0058] In certain embodiments, a minimum of logical capability may
be available in any node 52. Note that any of the individual nodes
11, 48, 52, 54 may be referred to, as may all together, as a node
11 or a node 52. Each may contain a processor 12 with more or less
of the other components 14-46.
[0059] A network 30 may include one or more servers 54. Servers may
be used to manage, store, communicate, transfer, access, update,
and the like, any practical number of files, databases, or the like
for other nodes 52 on a network 30. Typically, a server 54 may be
accessed by all nodes 11, 52 on a network 30. Nevertheless, other
special functions, including communications, applications,
directory services, and the like, may be implemented by an
individual server 54 or multiple servers 54.
[0060] In general, a node 11 may need to communicate over a network
30 with a server 54, a router 48, or nodes 52. Similarly, a node 11
may need to communicate over another network (50) in an
internetwork connection with some remote node 52. Likewise,
individual components 12-46 may need to communicate data with one
another. A communication link may exist, in general, between any
pair of devices.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, a system 60 or a
seamless, global compensation system 60 may include various
elements of hardware and software in order to implement integration
of marketing, tracking of management structures, tracking and
execution of compensation, consumer testing and motivation,
allocation and tracking of royalty payments, and delivery of
nutritional supplements. In one embodiment, a system 60 may include
hardware and software suitable to connect to the Internet 62. For
example, an Internet service provider 64 may connect through an
Internet service provider (ISP) interface 66 to the system 60.
Alternatively, or in addition, a telecommunications interface 68
may connect to a conventional telecommunications network 69. In
either event or both, the system 60 provides for communication with
a network of customers, operators, dealers, managers, suppliers,
and so forth.
[0062] In certain embodiments, the system 60 may rely on a database
system 70. The database system 70 may be configured to operate in
any of a host of modes. For example, object-oriented databases may
embed both executables and attributes (operational data) into a
single object associated with a particular function, purpose,
entity or the like. Similarly, relational databases may operate by
virtue of tables populated and managed by independent executables
or database engines. Other applicable, logical constructs may be
used instead.
[0063] Regardless of whether a database engine 72 is independent
from database records 74 or embedded such that the database engine
72 and database records 74 are implemented with individual objects
as executables and attributes, respectively, is not determinative.
The database system 70 needs to provide the functionality of a
database engine 72 capable of moving data in and out of database
records 74 and providing for searching, indexing, and so forth of
the database records 74 by whatever technological mechanism
provides suitable functionality. Thus, the specific architecture of
the database system 70 may be selected in order to provide desired
functionality in view of available technology and the costs of
creation and maintenance.
[0064] In certain embodiments, a server 76 may be programmed in
software, hardware, or both to handle uploaded data files received
from operators operating in accordance with the invention. For
example, data files to be received for processing, or for inclusion
directly into the database 74 may be uploaded from the Internet 62
or from a telecommunications network 69 from other users
(customers, dealers, operators, etc.) into the server 76.
[0065] Software updates may be needed for interacting with the
system 60 or for software for operating a scanner (see FIGS. 3-5,
10, scanner 102, for example). A server 78 may provide software
updates to be downloaded to those in need, such as customers,
operators especially, dealers or the like for whom software may be
available. Typically, software updates may be provided by the
server 78 to operators in order to provide the most recent
operating characteristics for the scanner 102.
[0066] In certain presently contemplated embodiments, an
authorization server 80 may manage and provide authorizations to
operators, in order to properly conduct scans using the scanner
102. That is, for example, the intellectual property associated
with the scanner is the subject of various patents, licenses,
ownership, and the like. Accordingly, several mechanisms may be
implemented in order to obtain financial returns on the efficacious
use of a scanner 102. For example, if royalties are to be provided
on the basis of use of a scanner 102, then the authorization server
80 may allocate, track, and otherwise control use, in order that
royalties may be based upon use.
[0067] On the other hand, if machines are sold, then royalties may
be paid based on the sale price of a scanner 102. Thus, an
authorization server 80 may be tasked with responsibilities for
allocating authorization on an ongoing or on a specific incident
basis. Depending on the architecture selected, the servers 76, 78,
80 may all be connected to the database system 70. In an
alternative embodiment, the data files server 76 may be connected
to the database system 70 and may communicate with the
authorization server 80 in order to properly perform the
controlling functions thereof. Similarly, the software update
server 78 may stand independently, or may be connected to other
modules or elements of the system 60 in order to integrate the
providing, tracking, and accounting for various services.
[0068] In certain embodiments, a certificate distribution system 82
may be configured in one of many ways. For example, the system 82
may actually be another server 82. In alternative embodiments, the
system 82 may be a standalone hardware system. In certain
embodiments, the certificate distribution system 82 may simply be
embodied in certain executables that coordinate with or are
incorporated within the authorization server 80. In other
embodiments, a certain security process may be embodied to control
a certificate distribution system 82 as a part of the database 70
itself.
[0069] In one presently contemplated embodiment, the certificate
distribution system 82 may be embodied in the server or processor
that connects to the server 76, in order that the server 76 may
then interact with an operator to provide all of the necessary
information, and collect all of the appropriate data with respect
to the operator.
[0070] Similarly, the server 76 may connect to the authorization
server 80, with the authorization server 80 providing the gate
keeping function, and serving to an operator with the necessary
authorization in exchange for the files to be uploaded to the
server 76. Thus, a variety of connection and control schemes may be
implemented in order to effect each of the functions of serving
updated software to an operator, uploading files from an operator
(or more properly from the computer thereof), serving
authorizations to an operator and the computer of an operator, and
distributing certificates for redemption by subjects who provide
them to an operator in return for the scanning service.
[0071] In one presently contemplated environment, the server 80 may
be regarded as the web server, and may receive information, provide
authorizations, and forward to the database 70 from the server 76
the files uploaded to the server 76 by the computer 100 and
operator. Nevertheless, regardless of the particular hardware and
software that controls or executes the particular function, the
database 70 may operate in accordance with an enterprise resource
planning system 90. The planning system 90 may incorporate the
software, data, or both that allocates, manages, tracks, and
accounts for the resources of the enterprise served by the system
60.
[0072] For example, lease payments on hardware, commissions for
sales, economic distributions to licensors owning property that is
licensed, authorization of operation of scanners 102 within
regions, geographical areas, market segments, and the like, and so
forth, may all be considered resources. Likewise, financial streams
are also resources. Accordingly, the enterprise resource planning
system 90 may contain or create the plan, formula, or the control
also for the allocation of resources in a system. Accordingly, the
system 90 may provide to the database system 70 periodic updates of
the plan incorporated therein.
[0073] Similarly, a royalty module 92 may be provided as an
executable, system of objects, a server, or the like that provides
for royalty controls and data with respect to licensed technology.
For example, patented scanners 102 may derive royalties in
accordance with the royalty schedule provided by, contained in,
stored by, created by, enforced by, or delivered by the royalty
module 92.
[0074] Similarly, a commission system 94 may contain, create,
store, generate, allocate, control, deliver, or enforce a schedule
of commissions, bonuses, and other financial or other remunerations
to entities involved in the enterprise. For example, operators, in
redeeming certificates, may obtain rights to financial
compensation. Similarly, sales of product result in compensation to
the sales people, managers, recruiters, and others who may be
involved in the marketing enterprise. Thus, the enterprise resource
planning system 90, the royalty module 92, and the commission
system 94 provide the functionality to allocate financial and other
resources among the entities that may be involved in the
enterprise. Similarly, the authorization server 80, the certificate
distribution system 82, as well as the uploaded data files server
76 and the software updates 78 handle the information data
resources flowing into and out of the system 60.
[0075] In certain embodiments, a dealer portal 86 may include a
volumes and genealogy module 87. The volumes and genealogy module
87 is responsible for publishing for the benefit of dealers,
marketing products, as well as others who may have a need and right
to know the allocations of the volumes of sales, however
represented. Likewise, the genealogy portion of the volumes and
genealogy module 87 provides the information regarding the
relationships between networks of dealers, operators, and the
like.
[0076] Accordingly, the genealogy of a multi-level marketing
organization may be published for review of those who have
responsibility or relationships with the organization and
individuals. Similarly, the sales volumes of an individual dealer,
or individual manager, and the portion of the network for which any
individual or organization may have responsibility, may be made
available in order that current, useful, appropriate information be
made available for management and accounting purposes. In certain
embodiments, the dealer portal 86 may be embodied in a web server
as software, hardware, or both within the system 60. In certain
embodiments, the entire system 60 may be hosted on a single
computer, wherein each module or element is simply a programmed
functionality, such as a software application.
[0077] The consumer portal 88 may likewise publish web pages 89
(e.g. 89a, 89b) for consumers. That is, the consumer portal 88 may
allow a consumer to track purchases, scanning data from various
inventories executed by a scanner 102, product information, dealer
contact information, and so forth. A consumer portal 88 may be
available to all consumers in general, specific consumers having
authorization, or a combination thereof, as allocated by software,
security, rights, and so forth.
[0078] In certain embodiments, a modem server 84 may provide a bank
of modems for access by computers connecting through a
telecommunications network 69. Accordingly, a modem server 84 may
be operable within the system 60 through the telecommunication or
wide area network interface 68.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 3, one embodiment of the system 60 may
include a user-interface host 100 connecting over a
telecommunications network 69 to a telecommunications interface 68.
In some embodiments, the interface 68 may be referred to as a wide
area network (WAN) interface 68. Accordingly, the user interface
100 may be a computer, such as a desktop computer, a laptop
computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or other processor.
In certain presently contemplated embodiments, the user-interface
100 may be a portable, digital computer dedicated to the control
and operation of the scanner 102.
[0080] The scanner 102 may be configured in accordance with the
technology in U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,354 to Gellerman et. al.
incorporated herein by reference. The scanner 102 directs a
radiation beam 103 in a suitable spectrum onto a subject 104. A
subject 104 may be, for example, the skin of a hand or arm of a
prospective consumer. Due to Raman-Scattering, a shifted wavelength
of light is returned from the input spectrum 103, as a beam 104.
The beam 104 is accordingly detected by the scanner 102 and the
data from the detector is processed accordingly, as discussed
herein below.
[0081] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3, a user-interface
host 100 connects by a telecommunication interface 68 directly to
the system 60. Thus, in this embodiment, the information provided
by the scanner to the host 100 is received by the system 60 over a
direct line, rather than over a less-secure Internet 62.
[0082] Meanwhile, a consumer computer 106 may connect to the
Internet 62 in order to access from the system 60 the consumer
portal 88. For example, the system 60 may engage through an
Internet service provider 64 to publish web pages 89 over a
consumer portal 88 on the Internet 62. These web pages 89 may be
accessed by a consumer through the consumer's computer 106.
[0083] Similarly, a dealer computer 108 in possession of a dealer
in nutritional supplements, for example, can connect to the
Internet 62 in order to access a dealer portal 86. The dealer
portal 86 may provide to the dealer computer 108 the volumes and
genealogy programs 87 or the volumes of genealogy data 87 to which
the dealer is entitled. Similarly, in the web pages 89 that the
dealer should see may be published over the Internet 62 as part of
the dealer portal 86 accessible to the dealer computer 108.
[0084] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3, the system 60 may
be configured with any connection scheme described with respect to
FIG. 2. Nevertheless, for the sake of illustration, the
illustration of FIG. 3 shows the database 70 as a "centerpiece" of
the system 60, receiving and exchanging information with the
enterprise resource planning system 90 and the royalty system 92.
Similarly, the database exchanges information with the commission
system 94 and the consumer portal 88. Intervening applications or
connections may be implemented as appropriate.
[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the dealer portal 86 may have
access to the commission system 94 in order to publish to
authorized dealers the information for which those dealers are
authorized. Some methods of security may be implemented in a
typical system 60 in order to provide secure access by only those
entitled to receive it.
[0086] Similarly, the authorization server 80 may be connected over
a line 109a to the telecommunication interface 68. Similarly, the
uploaded data server 76 may be connected over a line 109b to the
telecommunication interface 68. Thus, in the illustrated
embodiment, representing one option, the authorization server 80 is
connected to exchange information with the certificate distribution
server 82 as well as with the uploaded data files server 76.
[0087] In this illustrated embodiment, the authorization server 80
connects to the database 70 and the certificate distribution server
82 and the uploaded data server 76, do not. Nevertheless, depending
on the allocation of responsibilities between the database engine
72 and the authorization server 80, as well as the other servers
76, 78, 82, a suitable connection scheme and management scheme may
be used to optimize the flow of data, the processing thereof, and
the serving of appropriate information.
[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the modem server 84 is
directly connected by the line 109C to the telecommunication
interface 68. In some embodiments, a modem server 84 may operate as
a telecommunication interface 68, providing a bank of modems. Calls
through multiple lines 69 offer access to a variety of
user-interface hosts computers 100.
[0089] Referring to FIG. 4, in an alternative embodiment, the
system 60 may connect strictly through the Internet 62. That is,
consumer computers 106, and dealer computers 108 may access the
Internet 62 in order to obtain access to the respective portals 88,
86 of the system 60. In yet another alternative embodiment, the
consumer computer 106 and the dealer computer 108 may either one or
both be connected through the telecommunication interface 68 to the
system 60. However, with the ubiquitous presence of the Internet
62, along with the ability to cache web pages 89 locally, certain
efficiencies accrue to publication of web pages 89 by the system 60
over the Internet 62 for the benefit of consumer computers 106 and
dealer computers 108.
[0090] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the user-interface
host 100 connects to the system 60 through the Internet 62. In this
embodiment, the system 60 may still host physically the information
of the dealer portal 86 and the consumer portal 88 within the
physical hardware at a central location of a system 60. The
user-interface host 100 thus connects to deliver data from the
scanner 102 to the system 60 through the Internet 62.
[0091] In general, the user-interface host 100 may be a general
purpose digital computer. In other embodiments, the user-interface
host 100 may be a special purpose computer. It may be programmed
specifically to do only the functions allocated to it, and to be
disabled from performing other functions. In this way, the host 100
may become a special purpose digital computer of limited capacity
for purposes of security, control, license requirements, or the
like.
[0092] Referring to FIG. 5, in yet another alternative embodiment,
the system 60 may connect through a telecommunication interface 68
to one or more user-interface hosts 100a, supporting a scanner 102a
for scanning a subject 104a. By the same token, the user-interface
host 100b may connect through the Internet 62 and an ISP 64 in
order to access the system 60. Many consider the Internet 62,
absent appropriate measures, to be less secure than a direct line
69. Thus, in order obtain equivalent security, connecting through
the Internet 62 may require additional software, signatures, and
the like.
[0093] For simplicity, many prefer the direct dial system through a
dedicated telecommunications line 69 to the telecommunication
interface 68. Nevertheless, connecting through the Internet 62, as
illustrated for the user-interface host 100b, is nevertheless a
tractable option. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumer
portal 88 and the dealer portal 86 may actually be connected to the
Internet 62 at a location different from the majority of the
hardware, software, or both of the system 60. In this embodiment,
the dealer portal 86 and consumer portal 88 may actually be mere
cache images published to local servers, in order to minimize the
cost, complexity, time, and unreliability that may otherwise be
encountered with global connections.
[0094] Thus, the dealer portal 86 and consumer portal 88 may
actually be caches of identical or caches of a portion of another
portal 86, 88 actually physically located within the system 60.
Again, not illustrated here is the option wherein either the
consumer computer 106, the dealer computer 108, or both connect
through the telecommunication interface 68 in order to access the
embedded dealer portal 86 or consumer portal 88 of the system 60,
as illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0095] Referring to FIG. 6, a process 110 for implementing
certificates may provide a mechanism for compensation to dealers,
operators of scanners 102, and others involved in the enterprise of
taking inventories of the constitution of the skin of subject
(potential consumers, consumers, etc.). The invention may provide
motivation for the purchase of appropriate nutritional supplements.
Sellers (dealers) of the supplements, the managers of dealers, the
inventors of the scanner 102, and the suppliers of the nutritional
supplements, and so forth may benefit by providing certifications.
A certificate may be implemented in order to reallocate the cost of
operating the scanner 102.
[0096] For example, a subject 104 may desire to have a scan
conducted in order to determine the antioxidant or carotenoid
content of one's skin. On the other hand, a dealer may be motivated
to pay for the cost of a scan, in the hope of, or out of the
proceeds of, a sale of nutritional supplements calculated to
increase the antioxidant or carotenoid content of the subject's
skin. Accordingly, a certificate may be purchased by a dealer.
Likewise, certificates may be purchased by an operator of a scanner
102. Likewise, certificates may be produced by a manufacturer,
supplier, or other purveyor of nutritional supplements as a
motivation of the marketing chain.
[0097] Accordingly, a party having the resources and control, or
simply the authorization or contractual opportunity to pay, an
operator of a scanner 102, may generate 112 a certificate.
According to any desired scheme, whether for direct cash payment,
as a motivation for sales, as a reward, as a stimulant to
re-purchase, as a reward for sales volumes, as a part of
compensation, or otherwise, one may distribute 114 certificates to
consumers, dealers, managers, operators, or the like.
[0098] In one embodiment, a supplier of nutritional supplements may
generate 112 certificates. The generator (supplier) will compensate
an operator of a scanner 102 according to the number of those
certificates that are redeemed by the operator, and submitted back
to the supplier. In another embodiment, an operator may purchase
certificates as a mechanism for distribution 114. The operator may
sell them directly to subjects 104, as a product in and of
themselves.
[0099] Similarly, a dealer may purchase certificates in order to
seed the market, knowing that some number of those certificates
will result in scans that result in sales of nutritional
supplements. Thus, by any and all appropriate methods, distribution
114 of certificates ultimately results in redeeming 116 those
certificates.
[0100] When a certificate is redeemed 116, a subject 104 may
provide 118 certain subject data relating thereto. For example, at
the time of redemption 116, the certificate number may be provided.
The certificate number allows for linking together a subject 104,
and the scanner 102 or operator thereof that takes the scan, as
well as the distribution 114 that obtained the certificate
originally. Similarly, a subject 104 may provide demographic data
that can be useful in targeting marketing, tracking trends, and
observing the ultimate influence of nutritional supplements on
populations and individuals. Likewise, identification data may be
provided 118 by a subject 104 in order to positively identify a
particular subject 104.
[0101] In certain embodiments, providing 118 subject data may be
more or less intrusive. That is, the least intrusive collection
might be some minimum amount of identification data associated with
a certificate number. In other embodiments, long questionnaires
with detailed data may be provided. In some embodiments, part of
the purpose of motivation provided by a certificate may be the
motivation to provide 118 the desired data. In other embodiments,
the motivation to be provided by the certificate may reside more
with an interest in one's personal score related antioxidant (e.g.
carotenoid) to content of the skin.
[0102] Thus, at redemption 116, a scanner operator may conduct 120
a scan of a subject (person). After appropriate processing of the
information by the host computer 100, an output 122 or receipt of
results by a user provides a number. The number or score
corresponds to the subject's carotenoid content in the skin. The
output 122 may simply be a number to be compared with previous or
subsequent scans of the same subject 104. In alternative
embodiments, the output 122 may provide comparisons between a
population at large, a world population, a comparative demographic
population, or the like. Accordingly, the output 122 may provide
motivation to a subject 104 to use nutritional supplements in order
to effect the values of the output 122.
[0103] Ultimately, over a long or short period of time, the output
122 may result in a motivation to place 130 an order. Typically,
and as shown in brackets as an option, placement 130 may be that of
a recurring order. That is, a subject 104 may purchase a single
order of product or may purchase a subscription for continuing
delivery of product on a particular schedule.
[0104] Accordingly, upon placement 130 of an order for a delivery
or a subscription for delivery of a product, the process 110 may
assign 132 an identification to a user. Likewise, the system 110 or
process 110 may obtain input 134 of information related to the
subject 134. At this point, more information may reasonably be
required, or expected, as the level of commitment to the results of
the output 122 is exhibited.
[0105] In certain embodiments, the assignment 132 of an
identification may include assignment of a user or consumer
identification number. Similarly, dealers, operators, and the like
may also have identification numbers that permit the database 70 to
relate and track the activities of persons and organizations with
respect to the operation of scanners 102 and the distribution of
products.
[0106] In response to placement 130 of an order, packaging 136 of
product consequently occurs, typically with a periodicity
appropriate thereto. For example, a monthly shipment of product or
a shipment keyed on a number of days, may correspond to the
quantity of a daily supply of product provided. As part of
packaging 136, or possibly as an independent activity, inclusion
138 of a certificate may occur periodically.
[0107] For example, a certificate may be bundled in the packaging
136 of a product shipment to a consumer (subject 104). Likewise,
product may be packaged 136 in one manner and the certificate
inclusion 138 may actually be conducted by another. Certificates
may move by mail, e-mail, facsimile, or the like. Thus, the
periodicity of packaging 136 of a shipment, and the inclusion 138
or the distribution 138 of a certificate may be linked, may be
synchronous, may be non-synchronous, but may actually be physically
packaged 136 together.
[0108] Upon shipment 140 of a product to a customer, records may be
updated 142 on a regular basis. Updating 142 may include records
associated with not only the purchaser 104, but with the dealer
involved, the management structure associated with the dealer, the
originator of the certificate distributed 114, the scanner operator
involved, and so forth.
[0109] If the placement 130 of an order can be by subscription,
then the test 144 determines whether or not the order is to be
repeated. If so, then after a delay period 146, preparation 148 of
a communication or promotional material may occur. Ultimately, on
schedule, processing 149 of order information results in packaging
136 of the next shipment. Again, inclusion 138 of an additional
certificate may be on a corresponding schedule. For example, in one
embodiment, every alternate shipment may receive inclusion 138 of a
certificate. Thus, after two shipment cycles, a subject 104 may
obtain a pre-test in order to verify that the nutritional
supplements have indeed resulted in a different score as an output
122 of the scanning 120.
[0110] Optionally, preparation 148 of communications or promotional
materials may be independent from a natural order. Thus, processing
149 of ordering information in certain embodiments may simply be
processing of a proposed order in order to include it as a
motivation to order. In any event, as certificates are made
available, a return 124 to redemption 116 of the associated
certificate may occur. The redemption 124 need not be in strict
synchronization with the cycle of packaging 136 and shipping 140.
That is, an order might not be a recurring order. Similarly, orders
may have been cancelled. Likewise, the return 124 may be out of
schedule, even if the shipment 140 or inclusion 138 of a
certificate is on schedule. Moreover, a certificate may actually be
given to a customer that does not have the need for a repeat of the
scan 120 on schedule. Thus, in general, the return 124 may occur
regularly as a result of motivation of an individual, and the
availability of certificates, but may also take on a schedule of
it's own, according to the convenience of a subject 104.
[0111] Referring to FIG. 7, a process 150 for the development of a
network of individuals in a multi-level marketing organization may
begin with the development 152 of contacts who may be approached at
some point. Accordingly, a dealer or manager in a marketing
organization may set 154 appointments in advance or impromptu in
order to conduct demonstrations 156. Demonstrations may occur in
numerous areas. Likewise, a single demonstration may include
different types of information in a single demonstration 156.
[0112] For example, in a method and apparatus in accordance with
the invention, a demonstration 156 may include demonstration of an
array of nutritional supplement products or the like. Likewise, a
demonstration 156 may involve presentation of information related
to the manufacturer, the marketing organization, the compensation
system, or the like. Similarly, a demonstration 156 may include a
demonstration of a scanner 102, along with the compensation system
whereby an operator may operate a scanner 102 as a service. The
service may be a standalone service, or may be provided in
conjunction with sales of product.
[0113] Thus, as a result of a demonstration 156, various
opportunities may be provided to attendees or participants in the
demonstration 156. For example, a test 158 determines whether or
not the demonstration 156 results in the sign up of a customer. If
so, then a dealer may facilitate 160 the order. Since a method and
apparatus in accordance with the invention may be embodied in
various ways, facilitating 160 an order may involve assisting a
customer to navigate the Internet, filling out an order form,
logging on to a direct dial connection, or other mechanism for
placing an order. Accordingly, a dealer may facilitate 160 the
placement of an order by any suitable mechanism implemented over
the Internet, by a direct dial connection, on paper, by telephone,
or the like.
[0114] If the demonstration 156 results in signing a dealer, then
the test 162 results in a dealer facilitating 164 enrollment on the
new dealer. That is, a customer or consumer may be enrolled by
facilitating 164 enrollment of that customer as a dealer by any of
the mechanisms available. For example, paper, e-mail, Internet
browser access, direct dial access, or the like, or some
combination thereof, may be used for enrollment. Accordingly, one
conducting a demonstration 156 may use any and all available
methods as appropriate to facilitate 164 the enrollment of a new
dealer.
[0115] If the demonstration 156 results in signing up an operator,
the test 166 results in facilitating 168 enrollment of an operator.
Facilitating 168 may involve a number of steps, including obtaining
access to a scanner 102 in order to conduct scans. Similarly, with
some degree of training, some degree of commitment, contracting, or
the like, may be appropriate. Accordingly, over a direct line
connection, the Internet, through paper, or the like, an individual
demonstration 156 may facilitate 168 enrollment of an operator.
[0116] Consequently, participation 170 within a program, as a
customer, as a dealer, as an operator, or any combination thereof,
is contemplated. In any event, suppliers can provide product, sales
materials, information, and devices, in order to participate 170 as
a customer, dealer, operator, or combination thereof.
[0117] Referring to FIG. 8, a method and apparatus in accordance
with the invention may include a service core 180. In order to
operate the system 60, entities data 182 may be maintained by the
database 70. Entities data 182 may include information regarding
dealers, operators, customers, licensors, manufacturers, suppliers,
and others. Accordingly, identification information, locations,
contact information, as well as other business information and
financial information may prove useful or necessary to complete the
data 182.
[0118] Relationship data 184 may be some of the most important.
That is, dealers, customers, operators, and the like, often times
operate together, or have various relationships that result in
business connections, financial connections or the like.
Accordingly, relationship data 184 may include genealogy
(multi-level marketing relationship lines, etc., for example), rank
(e.g., based on organizational size, depth, production volume,
etc.) of an individual or entity on which compensation (for
example) may be based. Licensure, including licensors and
licensees, contracts, and other information may be included in
relationship data 184. The relationship data 184 is particularly
important for communication and for compensation.
[0119] Sales data 186 may include dates of events, such as
presentations, sales, scans, and the like. Likewise, the data 186
may include product identification, volume amounts of particular
products, a normalized volume amount that relates more to dollar
volume, and cumulative data over various periods of interest in
sales or other activity. Similarly, sales data 186 may include
scanner identification, customer identification, certificate
numbers, dealer identification, and other information that may
assist in relating sales to entities 182 and relationships 184.
[0120] Likewise, volume data 188 may be thought of as any and all
information that may be useful in determining sales performance of
individuals and entities. Since relationship data 184 includes
genealogy relationships between dealers in the organization, the
volume data 188 associated with each of those individuals may
depend on those relationships. For example, the commission for a
sale directly to a consumer dealer may be a higher, typically, than
a commission paid to that same dealer on the same sale.
[0121] Nevertheless, as volumes increase within a particular dealer
or manager's organization, the rates of compensation for volumes
may increase, as an incentive. Thus, the volume data 188 may be
dated that operates as intermediate information from sales data 186
to identify key information that may be required for compensation
schemes and schedules. Volume data 188 may be the inputs, outputs,
or both for compensation equations. The volume data 188 may be raw
data, or may be intermediate data incorporating both sales data 186
and relationship data 184, or may be a combination thereof.
[0122] Inasmuch as marketing is becoming a global enterprise,
currency data 189 may be important. For example, in the service
call 180, currency data 189 will be needed in order to provide
compensation between individuals or other entities who have
relationships defined by the relationship data 184 that span
different countries. For example, Asia has several currencies.
Similarly, Europe has had various currencies, although it is now
trying to standardize on the Euro.
[0123] Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for individuals to have
contacts across national boundaries and language boundaries, due to
the availability of travel, and the communication of language.
Thus, Latin American countries may have relationships spanning one
or more countries. Similarly, dealers or others within the United
States may have relationships with Europeans, Asians, Africans,
Latin Americans, and so forth. Thus, the currency data 189 and the
service call 180 provides for manipulation of compensation schemes
in order to account for credits of payments in proper
currencies.
[0124] The data 182, 184, 186, 188, 189 may be maintained in the
database 70. Nevertheless, presentation systems 190 are typically
required in order to provide presentation graphics, data,
formatting thereof, and the like. Accordingly, a presentation
engine 192 may be programmed to provide presentation data 194 to
any visitor to a consumer portal 88 or a dealer portal 86.
Similarly, any individual access to the system 60 for any reason,
and by any mechanism, may need to have presentation of
information.
[0125] Likewise, the user-interface host 100 requires a
presentation engine 192 in order to interact with an operator. The
presentation data 194 may be thought of as including formatting
196, and content 198. Typically, content 198 is often the subject
of database storage. In other embodiments, formatting information
196 may also be included in the database 70. The sophistication of
the database records 74 may be increased or decreased, according to
exactly how much presentation data 194 and which types (e.g.,
formats 196, vs. content 198) will be included therein.
[0126] Likewise, processing systems 200 are important for handling
information transfer. For example, a database engine 72 often
contains very sophisticated programming in a number of different
library or other executable programs in order to intake, output,
and manage database records 74. Some of the requirements presently
contemplated for a processing system 200 may include a processing
engine 202 that is programmed to process information. Some of the
information to be processed may include financial information 204
and report information 206.
[0127] For example, financial information 204 may include raw data,
partially processed data, personal data, and the like for any
individual consumer, dealer, organizational person, entity, or the
like. Similarly, report information 206 may include information
regarding sales volumes, current multi-level marketing network
affiliations and individuals, and the like. Thus, the processing
engine's operating on financial information 204, report information
206, or other information that should be presented to management,
consumers, dealers, licensors, or the like, may be managed by
various processing engines 202. Similarly, the financial
information 204, or report information 206, may be raw data or
finished data, and thus may be the same as database records 74, or
processed further for output as content 198 by presentation engines
192.
[0128] Typically, Internet systems available widely benefit from a
security system 210. Executables 212 or algorithms 212 implementing
security may operate in accordance with data 214 such as passwords,
rights, classifications or classes of entities and individuals,
classes of information, and the like. Thus, a security system 210
may execute algorithms 212 in order to verify, obtain, or operate
in accordance with data 214 on which a security system 210
depends.
[0129] Referring to FIG. 9, a process 220 for managing compensation
may include recording 222 data corresponding to various entities.
That is, whenever any dealer is enrolled, a customer places an
order for product or a subscription for product, or when an
operator is enrolled, data may be recorded 222 in order to
identify, manage, support, and compensate that entity.
[0130] Likewise, recording 224 relationship data 184 may be
conducted before or after the recording 222 of entity data.
Nevertheless, since entities are typically known first, and
relationships develop thereafter, relationship data 224 may be
recorded 224 simultaneously or subsequent to the recording 222 of
entity data 182.
[0131] Input 226 of currency data may include initial input 226 as
well as updates 226 of currency data 189. Inputs 228, including
subsequent updates 228 of sales data 186 may be input as necessary,
and appropriate. Determining 230 volumes of sales by dealers and
entities is a processing operation to calculate sales volumes that
will determine compensation, based on an individual entity as
identified in the entity data 182, other related entities,
relationship data 184 relating the entities together, and the sales
data 186 giving rise to the sales and subsequent compensation.
Accordingly, determining 230 the volume data 188 sets the stage for
allocating 232 financial distributions. Financial distributions may
include payments 234 to dealers, allocations 236 to operators,
allocations 238 to licensors, payments 240 to manufacturers,
payments 242 to suppliers, and so forth. Similarly, credits 244 may
be made to customers as a result of purchase volumes in some
compensation systems. Similarly, all other distributions 246 may
similarly be allocated 232 based on the available volumes 230.
[0132] Likewise, in certain embodiments, certain accounts may be
credited 248, rather than making payments immediately. For example,
allocating 232 may be thought of as the process of determining
financial transfers in accordance with the determination 230 of the
determination 230 of the volumes associated with various entities
182. At some point, accounts must be credited 248 in accordance
with the allocations 232.
[0133] Therefore, ultimately, statements may be generated 250.
Statements may be generated 250 on some periodic schedule, such as
monthly. Accordingly, the total credits 252 and the currency
conversion 254 may be selected as of the date of crediting 248, or
the date of the generation 250 of the statement. Any suitable and
equitable process, that can be managed in view of currency
fluctuations, may be implemented in the timing and conversion of
crediting 248, totaling 252 the credits, and conversion 254 of
currencies.
[0134] Ultimately, distribution 256 of payments is hoped for by all
of those laboring in the enterprise. Accordingly, distribution 256
may be by electronic, paper, or cash mechanisms, as well as others.
For example, sometimes, distribution 256 may be taken in product,
rather than cash. Thus, one may inventory credits in product,
rather than taking pay-outs in cash. For example, product given
away as a promotional item, thus does not show up except as an
inventory flow. In a largely electronic system, distributing 256 of
payments may actually occur by wire transfers between accounts.
Online banking is being promoted by financial institutions to
reduce paper, and to reduce the labor associated with processing
paper. Accordingly, distribution 256 may be partially or entirely
by financial credits to electronic accounts by financial
institutions.
[0135] Referring to FIG. 10, a user-interface host 100 or simply a
host 100 may operate in conjunction with a scanner 102 as a system
260 for taking a survey or inventory of the hand, arm or other part
of the skin of a subject 104. The subject 104 is typically a
prospective consumer. The details of operation of the scanner 102
are disclosed by Gellerman (U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,354). A simplified
schematic will suffice here. In general, a master processor 262 may
be thought of as the CPU or processor within a host computer 100.
Typically, the master processor 262 needs to accomplish several
functions.
[0136] For example, a management module 264 may be programmed to
execute on a processor 262 in order to manage the entire process.
For example, a presentation 190 may be programmed to run on the
processor 262 of the host 100. Similarly, a processing system 200
may be programmed into the processor 262 to handle various
information. In the case of the host 100, financial information is
of less consequence, and may be irrelevant.
[0137] That is, primarily technical information is processed from
the scanner 102, and information available to a user is presented.
Accordingly, a management module 264 may manage the order of
presentation information, may include the control in order to
process both the information received from the scanner 102, and the
input and output information to a user (operator). Thus, in one
embodiment, the management module 264 is responsible for any of the
functionality and allocation of resources of the processor 262.
[0138] Meanwhile, a user interface module 266 provides the
presentation graphics, the information, the prompts, and the intake
and outflow of information required to step through the sequence of
events in which the host 100 and scanner 102 operate together.
Similarly, a detector module 268 may be allocated any or all of the
processing of information coming from the scanner 102, as well as
processing the information to be provided to the user interface
module 266 as output.
[0139] The architecture of the master processor 262 as shown is in
a very gross format. Numerous details are discussed later with
respect to FIG. 13. Nevertheless, as a general proposition, the
detector module 268 is responsible for data processing of
information coming from the scanner 102. The user-interface module
266 is responsible for information presented to and retrieved from
an operator. The management module 264 may control the operation of
the processor 262, including control of the sequence of events
conducted by the scanner 102. Thus, the management module 264 may
be programmed to provide management of the interface between the
user, the host 100, and the scanner 102.
[0140] A user-interface 270 may include any input and output
systems reasonably required or helpful for an operator to interact
with the host 100. For example, keyboards, a mouse, data input and
output devices, drives, screens, printers, and the like, may all be
used in suitable arrangement as input, output, or both devices for
interacting with an operator.
[0141] In general, a scanner 102 includes a laser source 272, which
may be provided by any suitable means. For example, lasers may be
large or small. Light emitting diodes can produce laser light. A
laser source 272 may have some degree of control embedded in it or
connected with it by way of a controller 274 or controller 100.
Nevertheless, typically, a laser source 272 may have some degree of
local low level physical control embodied in a controller 274
directly associated or embedded therewith. Other hardware in the
scanner 102 or the host 100 may provide additional instructions at
a higher level to control the controller 274.
[0142] Eventually, the laser source 272 is controlled by signals
received through a port 276 connecting the host 100 to the scanner
102. The module 264 may handle inputs, outputs, or both of the
controller 274. Meanwhile, the laser source 272 projects a beam 278
to a director 280. The director 280 may or may not be necessary in
various embodiments. In several embodiments, a splitter mirror may
operate as a director 280 in order to pass the beam 278 through to
become a beam 282 impinging on a subject 184.
[0143] As a result of the beam 282 striking the subject 184, a
re-radiated or scattering beam (e.g. according to Raman scattering
principles) returns as a beam 284 redirected by the director 280.
The director 280 directs the beam 284 to become a beam 286
impinging on a director 288. Many intervening pathways, splitters,
directors, filters, polarizing elements, and the like, may be
implemented to meet the optical requirements of the beams 278, 282,
284, 286, any derivatives thereof, or contributions thereto. Again,
the Gellerman patent provides additional details of various
embodiments for implementing a scanner 102.
[0144] Ultimately, a beam 286 impinges on a detector 288 providing
a representation or signal output corresponding to intensities and
frequencies of energy contained in the beam 286. As with the
controller 274 on the laser source 272, the detector 288 typically
will have some low level hardware controller 292 connected thereto
in order to facilitate communication with other hardware within the
scanner 102, the host 100, or both.
[0145] The detector 288 provides a signal 289 that may pass through
a pre-processor 290. That is, depending on the sophistication
desired to be programmed into hardware, firmware, or software
within the scanner 102 proper, a pre-processor 290 may execute
analysis of the information that is output as raw electrical
signals 289 from the detector 288. Typically, a pre-processor 290
may include functions such as sampling, smoothing, filtering, and
the like. Information from a pre-processor 290 is ultimately passed
to the host 100, and specifically to the detector module 268. The
detector module 268 is responsible for processing data originating
with the detector 288. Again, the schematic of the system 260 of
FIG. 10 is for logical and gross representation of the
functionality. Many separate components in multitudinous
arrangements can be used to implement the functional requirements
of the system 260 in order to provide a reading. That reading or
output may be characterized as a body defense score (BDS)
corresponding to the carotenoid content in the subject 104.
[0146] In general, the device of Gellerman is directed toward
detection of carotenoids in the skin. Nevertheless, other systems
260 may scan different parts of subjects 104, including other
tissues, and the like. Thus, although one embodiment of an
apparatus and method in accordance with the invention would include
a licensure of the Gellerman technology for implementation in the
system 260 as the scanner 102, other technologies may also be
applied in other embodiments.
[0147] Referring to FIG. 11, a process 300 may control the scanner
102 and host 100 from a business perspective. For example, as
discussed hereinabove, the system 60 may assert control over
authorization received 302 in order to facilitate operation of the
host 100 and scanner 102. In certain embodiments, the host 100 may
be a dedicated computer. That is, it may be programmed with only a
sufficient operating system and software to operate the scanner
102, and to interface with the operator and with the system 60. The
host may have limited software by way of a connection to the
Internet 62 or a telecommunication interface 68.
[0148] After receiving 302 authorization, an operator may operate
304 the scanner 102. The scanner 102, in the process of generating
information to pass through the port 276 to the host 100, may
receive subsequent programming, control, and the like. Meanwhile,
the host 100 will log 306 all data in an appropriate order. That
is, depending on the pre-processor 290, raw data may be logged.
Processed data may also be logged.
[0149] Similarly, data may be logged from user information, subject
information, and so forth. Ultimately, in the process of operating
a scanner 102 and processing the information provided thereby, the
host 100 will output 308 results of value to the subject. The
results may be described graphically, in text, symbols, and the
like. In one embodiment, the output 308 may occur by way of a
graph.
[0150] In an alternative embodiment, that may be used in associated
with such a graph, or independently, or instead of a graph, a
number called a body defense score (BDS) may be output for a
subject (potential customer, customer) to use for comparison with
subsequent and previous BDS outputs received. In certain
embodiments, a BDS of an individual may be compared to a BDS of a
particular population in general, a world population, or a
comparison standard of some particular type.
[0151] Data and machinery are most reliable and best for comparison
when used under virtually identical circumstances with a minimum of
changes in operating variables. That is, in general, a BDS output
for an individual is best compared with a subsequent or previous
BDS output from the same machine, rather than changing times,
persons, machines, conditions all at once, and the like. Typical
engineering principles recommend minimizing the number of altered
conditions. Nevertheless, as data is collected and processed, more
comparisons and more meaningful comparisons may be made. However,
as a motivation for a subject 104 to participate in purchasing and
ingesting nutritional supplements, a subject 104 need only receive
an output 308 of a BDS number corresponding to relative amounts of
carotenoids detected in the tissues (e.g., skin of the user). Lest
false negative correlations or data result, however, machines
should be reliably and repeatably operable and so calibrated.
[0152] A reset step 310 may involve simply setting up the host 100
to run a scan for another individual, or may involve shutting off
the machine between multiple days or other periods of operation. A
test 312 may determine whether or not a user (operator) desires to
upload data that has been logged 306 during a previous particular
time period or session. Sessions may be timed, numbered, or the
like. That is, a session may be defined as a certain number of
scans. Similarly, a session may be defined as a period of time
during which the host 100 and scanner 102 are programmed to
operate.
[0153] Ultimately, much or all data logged 306 is logged 306 with
the intent to be uploaded. Accordingly, if the machine 260, or the
operator determines to upload 314 data to the file server 109, the
system 60 may on its own or through the host 100 check 316 for the
status of regarding authorization. If authorization is okay, the
test 318 results in a return to operation 304. Since authorization
has been received, renewed, or otherwise activated.
[0154] If, on the other hand, the check 316 results in a revocation
of authorization, or detects that an authorization time or number
has been exceeded, then the test 318 may result in an end 320 to a
session. The end 320 may result in the end of all operation of the
scanner 102, host 100, or both.
[0155] One purpose for continuing checks 316 of authorization is
that use is a proper licensing measurement for a patented
invention. The scanner 102 may be sold, but also may be used, with
throughput as a licensing measurement (metric). Accordingly,
authorization can be checked 316 in order to verify that a machine
102 is being operated within its licensing authority. If the test
312, whether done manually, mentally, by virtue of programming
within the host 100 results in no upload 314, then session
authorization must still continue to be valid or operation ceases.
If the session authorization is not valid, then a test 322 will
typically permit only upload 314 operations. That is, if a user has
not determined to reauthorize timely, or a corresponding prompt has
been denied, then the test 312 may result in only one option,
uploading 314, since the authorization tests out as invalid in the
test 322.
[0156] Similarly, the check 316 for the status regarding
re-authorization may include reporting back to the system 60 in
order to verify the authorization status, whether new
authorizations need to be granted, and the like. Ultimately, the
process 300 results in several valuable functions. Examples are
logging 306 data, outputting 308 results to a subject to provide
motivation and progress reporting, uploading 314 data to the system
60 from the host 100, and testing 322 for authorization provide
control by the system 60 of the remote operation of the scanner 102
and host 100.
[0157] However, implementation details may vary widely. Sequences
of events may vary widely. Whether a single machine, multiple
machines, a single software package, multiple software packages, a
single machine instruction, or a massive multi-media package are
involved, the illustrated logical functionality of the system may
accomplish the valuable functions with the desired minimum or
maximum fanfare, splash, ease, presentation graphics, and so
forth.
[0158] Referring to FIG. 12, operation methods 324 for the scanner
260 may include powering up 326 or turning on 326 the scanner 102.
Although certain calibrations occur during manufacture, field
calibration 328 may be valuable with each test, or each power up
event 326, or periodically over time. Ultimately, field calibration
328 may be required by an operator, or calibration may simply be a
hidden and automated process. In some embodiments, the field
calibration 328 may be executed by an operator with test samples
(surrogate subjects) for measuring the operation, noise, scale, and
the like of the scanner 102.
[0159] In other embodiments, a scanner 102 may have embedded within
it, certain test samples, sequence of events, and a means to
illuminate and test calibrated samples in order to set calibration
factors. Nevertheless, by whatever means, a field calibration 328
may improve the accuracy and repeatability of readings over time,
through different environmental conditions, across different
subjects, and so forth.
[0160] In general, presentation 330 of a subject may or may not
involve presentation of a certificate, shown in brackets as an
optional step. That is, a subject may walk into a nutritional
supplement or other type store and request a scan to be done as a
service at a price. Alternatively, a certificate may be paid for by
a party seeking to motivate a subject to obtain a scan and purchase
products. The certificate may substitute as financial
consideration. The certificate identification provides a traceable
number or other symbol for identifying the obligations and payments
associated with performing a scan.
[0161] The host 100 provides prompts 332. The prompts 332 may
include various commands or images to direct the user, subject, or
both. For example, indications of starting, locating a subject, or
moving a subject's hand or arm closer, further, laterally about, in
order to obtain a proper and reliable scan may be provided through
prompts 332. Similarly, an operator may be provided indications of
steps, waiting periods, operations to be conducted, keys to be
struck, and other actions to be taken during, before, after, or in
relation to the operation of the scanner. For example, prompted
operational sequences may include operation of the scanner 102 as
well as interaction with the SCG system 60, or even the sequence of
dialing up the home system 60 in order to upload data.
[0162] Similarly, browsers, wizards, menus, steps through
processes, and the like, may all be implemented with prompts 332 in
order to reduce the level of complexity, and the degree of training
required. In certain embodiments, the problems 332 may be largely
graphical in order to transcend languages, and provide universal
information.
[0163] A fundamental purpose of the scanner 102 is to scan 334 a
subject 104. Accordingly, the scanner 102, among other processes,
may illuminate the subject, detect a response (illumination
re-radiating or scattering back according to the Raman scattering
theory from the subject 104), to provide a detectible result. With
delivery of data by the scanner 102 into the host 100, data may be
recorded, and the process may be repeated any specified number of
times. That is, any given scan 334 of an individual subject 104 may
actually involve multiple scans. In one embodiment, 30 scans may be
taken over a period of less than 30 seconds in order to get a
statistically significant sample of intensities at multiple
frequencies across various pixels of a CCD (charge coupled device)
or other detector 288.
[0164] Similarly, the host 100 will process 336 the information in
conjunction with the scanner 102. That is, some pre-processing may
occur in a pre-processor 290. Ultimately, filtering may occur
within the beams 278, 282, 284, 286, or in signals 289 received
from the detector 288. Similarly, filtering may occur through
applying software to data. Accordingly, data may be adjusted or
filtered or the like. Similarly, data may be fit to a curve in
order to provide a statistically reliable integration of the
multiple laser scans accomplished within a single scan 334 of a
subject 104. That is, multiple scans by a laser source 272 and
detector 288 in conjunction with one another actually results in
what would be termed a scan 334 of an individual subject 104.
[0165] Accordingly, once the data has been fitted, then extraction
of the target frequency data may be more useful. That is, after
filtering of noise and background, and reducing data by a general
curve or histogram of intensities across all frequencies, a
frequency of particular interest in detection of carotenoids may be
isolated. Accordingly, extraction of data in the target frequency
most commonly associated with the Raman scattering or other
scattering technique that might be used by a scanner 102, may
result in an ability to evaluate the intensity. Of most interest is
the base and peak values, for example, of a particular portion of
the charted intensity.
[0166] One objective is the correlation of the data to a score that
is repeatable and meaningful to a subject 104. Accordingly, the
correlation process and output on the BDS score or other meaningful
output to a user may be part of the processing 336 of the
significant data. Thus, an output 338 of a body defense score or
other output metric may be done by a printed writing, a displayed
image on a screen, a picture, a graph, or the like. If anew subject
104 is to be scanned, then a test 340 may return the process 324 to
present 330 subject for scanning. Otherwise, the system may be shut
down and end 342 its operation.
[0167] Referring to FIG. 13, a user-interface host 100, used to
interface a scanner 102 to the global compensation system 60, may
be implemented using a laptop, notebook, personal digital
assistant, such as a Palm Pilot or Ipaq, a digital tablet, or other
dedicated computing device. In certain embodiments, the
user-interface host 100 is an independent computing device that is
physically separate from the scanner 102. However, in other
contemplated embodiments, the user-interface host 100 may be
integrated with the scanner 102 into a single device.
[0168] The user-interface host 100 may include various memory
modules 14, including volatile memory such a RAM, or more permanent
memory such as ROM, or magnetic storage such as floppy disks or
hard drives. Memory 14 may contain executable and operational data
352, 354, 356 effective to control and operate the scanner 102,
provide a graphical interface 358 for an operator, and communicate
back to the seamless global compensation system 60.
[0169] For example, in certain embodiments, memory 14 may include
an operating system 352 to perform basic system tasks, operate a
file system, and provide an interface between applications and
hardware components. The operating system 352 may be a common
operating system 352, such as Windows or Linux, or may be a
dedicated operating system 352 designed specifically to operate the
scanner 102.
[0170] In certain embodiments, memory 14 may optionally include a
browser 354. The browser 354 may be used in web-based systems to
communicate with a central server 60, or servers 60. The browser
354 may also be used to directly communicate with a dealer portal
86, a consumer portal 88, or other Internet sites.
[0171] In accordance with the invention, a scanner interface module
356 may be provided in memory 14 to interface with the scanner 102.
For example, a scanner interface module 356 may include a graphical
user interface 358 for use by an operator. The graphical user
interface 358 may display data to the operator, and may include
forms or templates to receive inputs such as subject demographic
information, operating variables, and the like.
[0172] An initialization module 360 may be used to initialize the
scanner 102 before operation. For example, an initialization module
360 may read in parameter files and initialize key coefficients and
variables used to operate the scanner 102. Some of these files may
be created during a factory calibration process and copied to the
user-interface host 100 upon "mating" a scanner 102 thereto.
Selected files may be used while operating the scanner 102. Since
every scanner 102 may have distinct characteristics and calibration
specifications, a serial number may assigned to each scanner 102.
When a scanner is operated, the serial number thereof may be
compared to serial numbers stored in a configuration file to ensure
that files correspond to the scanner 102 connected. Moreover, the
initialization module 360 may verify that a scanner 102 is
compatible with a version of software used in conjunction
therewith.
[0173] The initialization module 360 may also initialize one or
several communication ports between the user-interface host 100 and
the scanner 102. In addition, coefficients and parameters may be
read from the scanner's memory for analysis on the user-interface
host 100.
[0174] A status checking module 362 may be used to retrieve various
status from the scanner 102. For example, a status checking module
362 may retrieve the serial number, or other identifying value, of
an attached scanner 102 to verify that the scanner 102 is the
device originally initialized. Additionally, the status checking
module 362 may check various status of the laser 272, such as
temperature, or may verify that the scanner 102 is sufficiently
"warmed up." Certain returned values may indicate that a scanner
102 is connected and communicating with the user-interface host
100. Other values may indicate that operation parameters are within
prescribed limits, thus ensuring that subsequent scans will return
accurate and consistent data. The status checking module 362 may be
primarily dedicated to checking values of key indicators at any
selected point in time.
[0175] A noise filtering module 364 may be used to filter noise
from data gathered by a scan. For example, in certain embodiments,
a "dark scan" may be used to filter noise from subject 104 scans.
Raw data values collected during a dark scan may be subtracted from
raw data values collected during a subject 104 scan, pixel by
pixel, thereby producing a "dark corrected" scan.
[0176] The noise filtering module 364 may perform a "dark scan" in
response to various conditions. For example, a dark scan may be
performed during a warm up period, wherein consistent results from
one dark scan followed by another may be used to indicate that a
scanner 102 is sufficiently warm and stable. A dark scan may also
be performed whenever a scanner 102 is recalibrated. Also, a dark
scan may be used if readings appear to be drifting with respect to
previous readings. If drift is detected, the results of a scan may
be inaccurate. In such a case, a normal scan may be repeated after
performing a dark scan.
[0177] A reference measuring module 366 may perform scans used in a
calibration process. For example, a reference scan may establish
variable and coefficient values, such that results (e.g. scores
provided to scanned customers) are substantially equivalent to
values that would have been produced at the factory. Various
routines may be used to verify that the results are reasonably
accurate when the new reference values (variable and coefficient
values) are used. Other routines may verify that the scanner 102
produces repeatable results that are reasonably constant from scan
to scan. If the results are not reasonably constant, the scanner
102 may be considered unreliable. In such cases, the scanner 102
may be locked down such that further scans are prevented, thereby
requiring an operator to have the scanner 102 repaired.
[0178] A calibration module 368 may be provided to calculate,
modify, and test important parameters used in the computation of a
subject score. A subject score refers to an assessment or
measurement of the health of some aspect of a subject 104
(customer). For example, in accordance with the present invention,
a scanner 102 may provide a score indicating the amount of
carotenoids present in the skin of a subject 104. However, the
score need not refer to carotenoids, but may refer to any
measurement or assessment of the health of a patient.
[0179] Referring more particularly to scanning for carotenoids, the
scanner 102 may compute a score, such as a body defense score of a
subject 104. In addition to raw data measured from the subject 104,
the score may be calculated using inputs generated by the factory
calibration process, the reference measurements 366, and the noise
filtering 364. Proper calibration is needed to ensure that a
subject 104 is provided with a valid score.
[0180] A verification module 370 may be used to verify that a
scanner 102 is properly calibrated. For example, a reference
material, such as a card or other material having a known
concentration or level of carotenoids, may be used to calibrate the
scanner 102. The scanner 102 may be calibrated with the reference
material at the factory. When recalibrated, the scanner 102 may
again measure the concentration in the reference material.
[0181] If the measurement is not reasonably close to the original
factory reading, the scanner 102 may no longer be producing
accurate and consistent results and the scanner 102 may be
disabled. This will prevent further scanning and encourage the
operator to have the scanner 102 repaired. Since this may be a
relatively significant undertaking, it may be desirable to attempt
recalibration several times before concluding that the scanner 102
is in need of repair.
[0182] A subject scanning module 372 may be responsible for
performing scans on subjects 104. For example, the subject scanning
module 372 may enable a normal scan on the skin of a subject's hand
in order to return a body defense score. The subject scanning
module 372 may also verify that the serial number from an attached
scanner 102 is the same as the scanner 102 originally initialized
to further ensure accuracy of the score. Various operating
parameters such as temperature, laser status, and the like, may be
checked to verify that the scanner 102 is ready to produce reliable
data.
[0183] In certain embodiments, the subject scanning module 372 may
perform a pre-scan for a prescribed period, such as 20 seconds, to
"bleach" the subject's skin. Next, a data acquisition scan may be
performed various times, such as 3 times. A body defense score may
be calculated after each scan. These scores may be averaged to
produce a final body defense score. Only the final body defense
score may be presented to a user or operator of the scanner 102.
However, each individual body defense score may be saved since
these may provide valuable diagnostic information with respect to
the functioning of the scanner 102.
[0184] Various steps may be performed for each individual scan. For
example, an operation may be performed to check for scan
transmission errors. The scan may also be "dark corrected" using
data calculated by the noise filtering module 364. If excessive
luminescence is detected that is out of range of the scanner 102, a
scan may be aborted. If a scan is successful, data obtained
therefrom may be analyzed to calculate a body defense score. A test
may be performed on data received from a scan to determine if there
is a significant difference in any of the 3 body defense scores of
a subject 104. If a significant difference is detected, an error
message may be generated notifying an operator of the excessive
spread of values.
[0185] A diagnostic module 376 may be provided to diagnose
problems, settings, or status of the scanner 102. For example, a
diagnostic module may determine or set a communications rate, or
baud rate, of the scanner 102. Various commands may be sent to the
scanner 102 to monitor the response thereof, in order to ascertain
that the scanner 102 is operating correctly.
[0186] Other commands may be sent to retrieve the serial number of
the scanner 102, or to retrieve the version numbers of scanner
firmware and hardware components. Yet other commands may retrieve
the temperature, set integration times, set coefficients, turn a
laser 272 on or off, return a recently computed body defense score,
return raw data, or return peak data computed from raw data.
[0187] An upload/download module 376 may function to upload subject
data, such as body defense scores or demographic data, to a remote
server, such as to the uploaded data files server 76. The module
376 may further coordinate the download, from remote servers such
as the software update server 78, of newer versions of software to
operate the scanner 102.
[0188] The scanner interface module 356 may be further programmed
to store data 378. Data 378 may include raw data gathered by the
scanner 102, processed data such as body defense scores and the
like, and subject data, such as demographic data corresponding to
each subject 104.
[0189] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its essence or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope
of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims,
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
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