U.S. patent application number 11/266244 was filed with the patent office on 2006-03-30 for method and apparatus for playing video and casino games with a television remote control.
Invention is credited to Elliot A. Gottfurcht.
Application Number | 20060068919 11/266244 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36099982 |
Filed Date | 2006-03-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060068919 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gottfurcht; Elliot A. |
March 30, 2006 |
Method and apparatus for playing video and casino games with a
television remote control
Abstract
A method and apparatus to facilitate access to web content
including video games, shopping, multimedia and portal content.
Services to facilitate the navigation and access of content include
providing access to a set of video and casino games. A system to
allow one or more users to play the games using a remote control.
The system may execute the games at a central server and display
them through a local console device.
Inventors: |
Gottfurcht; Elliot A.;
(Santa Monica, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MORRISON & FOERSTER LLP
1650 TYSONS BOULEVARD
SUITE 300
MCLEAN
VA
22102
US
|
Family ID: |
36099982 |
Appl. No.: |
11/266244 |
Filed: |
November 4, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10757164 |
Jan 13, 2004 |
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11266244 |
Nov 4, 2005 |
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10646067 |
Aug 21, 2003 |
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10757164 |
Jan 13, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/42 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3239 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/042 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method comprising: displaying a web based game; and receiving
control input for the game from a television remote control.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying a set of
game control options in a matrix format.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying a set of
web based games as navigation options.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:, receiving control
input from a second television remote control.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the game is one of a video game
and a gambling game.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: tracking the online
status of a group of individuals designated by a user.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing a game
matching service to a user.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the control input is unique
input.
9. A method comprising: executing a game on a server; displaying
the game remotely at a first location-on a first television; and
receiving control input remotely from a first television remote
control at the first location.
10. The method of 9, further comprising: providing access to the
game from a simplified navigation interface for web content on a
television.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein the game is one of a video game
and a gambling game.
12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:. displaying the game
remotely at a second location on a second television.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: receiving control
input remotely from a second television control.
14. A machine readable medium having stored therein a set of
instructions which when executed cause a machine to perform a set
of operations comprising: displaying a web-based game; and
receiving control input for the game from a television remote
control.
15. The machine readable medium of claim 14 having further
instructions stored therein which when executed cause a machine to
perform a set of operations, further comprising: displaying a set
of game control options in a matrix format.
16. The machine readable medium of claim 14 having further
instructions stored therein which when executed cause a machine to
perform a set of operations, further comprising: displaying a set
of web based games as navigation options.
17. The machine readable medium of claim 14 having further
instructions stored therein which when executed cause a machine to
perform a set of operations, further comprising: receiving control
input from a second television remote control.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The application is a Continuation-In-Part of co-pending
application Ser. No. 10/646,067, filed Aug. 21, 2003 by applicant,
Elliot A. Gottfurcht, entitled "Simplified System of Purchasing
Merchandise From Multiple Sources Advertised on Television."
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The invention relates to electronic information services and
electronic commerce services. More specifically, the invention
relates to providing convenient access to web content and services
through a simplified interface for interactive television via web
appliances and consoles.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] The importance of the Internet as a tool of electronic
commerce can not be overstated. The ability of consumers to buy
products and obtain information from the comfort of their own home
is revolutionizing the way business is done. Increasingly, there is
a push to provide access to the Internet on standard television
monitors through the use of set top boxes. Over time, much like
cable-ready televisions, it is expected that Internet-ready
televisions will proliferate. Unfortunately, even on large screen
televisions the web surfing experience is poor, inasmuch as the web
content is illegible and/or unnegotiable, unless you happen to be
sitting very close to the television. Generally, this makes web
surfing impractical in more traditional television environments. As
the television web access systems proliferate, .improved navigation
and content access on the television is likely to become a
necessity.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A method and apparatus to facilitate access to web content
including video and casino games, shopping multimedia and portal
content on interactive television. Related services and tools may
include voice recognition, voice prompting, product tracking,
product location, video and casino game navigation, video
presentation of products, an enhanced remote control, content
organization and ranking, time based advertisement, navigation
tracking and cataloging, interface control techniques, three
dimensional representation user interfaces, user identification
tools, client cost determination functions, electronic messaging
systems and similar tools.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system employing one
embodiment of the invention.
[0008] FIG. 2a is an exemplary web page having a sister site
link.
[0009] FIG. 2b is an exemplary first matrix page of a sister
site-for the web page of FIG. 2a.
[0010] FIG. 2c is a web page having irregular segmentation.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of conversion of standard HTML
pages to a sister site format in one embodiment of the
invention.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a client hardware architecture
of one embodiment of the invention.
[0013] FIG. 5a is a flow diagram of server side segmentation in one
embodiment of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 5b is a flow diagram of client side manipulation of a
segmented page in one embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 5c is a diagram showing a system implementing the tab,
scroll, and zoom features of one embodiment of the invention.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a flow chart of operations of the navigation
system of one embodiment of the invention in a custom terminal
custom browser node.
[0017] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of operation of the sister site
server of one embodiment of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 8 is a diagram of the display of a graphical user
interface of one embodiment of the invention.
[0019] FIGS. 9a-d are examples of sister site matrix pages.
[0020] FIGS. 10a-g are a series of matrix layers displayed during
an exemplary navigation using one embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 11 shows a history window overlying a navigation matrix
layer.
[0022] FIGS. 12a and b are an example of a matrix layer of one
embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 13 is an e-mail composition matrix layer for one
embodiment of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 14 shows an alternative matrix of one embodiment of the
invention.
[0025] FIG. 15 is a diagram of a top level of a navigation
hierarchy interface for one embodiment of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 16 is diagram of an intermediate level of a navigation
hierarchy interface for one embodiment of the invention.
[0027] FIG. 17 is diagram of a second intermediate level of a
navigation hierarchy interface for one embodiment of the
invention.
[0028] FIG. 18 is diagram of a lower level of a navigation
hierarchy interface for one embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 19 is a diagram of a second lower level of a navigation
hierarchy for one embodiment of the invention.
[0030] FIG. 20 is a flowchart of a process for providing shopping
services via interactive television in one embodiment of the
invention.
[0031] FIG. 21 is a diagram of an interface for managing an account
for an advertiser for interactive television in one embodiment of
the invention.
[0032] FIG. 22 is a diagram of peripheral input device for use with
the simplified navigation system.
[0033] FIG. 23 is a diagram of purchase feedback screen in a
simplified navigation interface.
[0034] FIG. 24 is a diagram of an interactive media presentation in
a simplified navigation interface.
[0035] FIG. 25 is a diagram of a mapping and product tracking
screen in a simplified navigation interface.
[0036] FIG. 26 is a diagram of a three dimensional simplified
navigation interface.
[0037] FIG. 27 is an illustration of a system for playing video and
casino games using a television remote control.
[0038] FIG. 28 is a diagram of a simplified interface for
organizing multimedia.
[0039] FIG. 29 is a diagram of a simplified interface for
organizing, selecting and playing multimedia.
[0040] FIG. 30 is a diagram of a product tie in service.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0041] A simplified system for navigation of the Internet or other
content source allows access to the content and services available
thereon with greater ease; on, for example, a display more remote
from a user than in the use of the "traditional" personal computer
(PC) two foot paradigm.
[0042] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system employing one
embodiment of the invention. A wide-area networks (WAN) 10, such as
the Internet, couple together a plurality of communication nodes.
Some nodes, such as node 12, may be a standard prior art PC
executing any conventional web browser. Alternatively, node 12
might be a set top box and television, or an Internet appliance; or
a wireless device, such as a web-enabled cell phone. Additionally,
there are server nodes connected to WAN 10, such as server node 16,
which may be any conventional web server. Also coupled to WAN 10
are browser nodes 22 running a custom browser that facilitate
access to information and services provided to the custom browser
node 22. The custom browser node 22 as well as any browser nodes 12
are collectively referred to as client nodes. In another
embodiment, the WAN may be a closed network that is not accessible
via the Internet in order to maintain an increased level of control
on content and usage to minimize security and stability problems.
In addition, a closed network allows for the control of content to
exclude hate speech, pornography, violent images and similar
content. In a further embodiment, the simplified system may be used
on a local area network, or other type of network.
[0043] Content partners, such as content partner node 14 provide
content in a specified format that facilitates its use by the
client nodes 12, 22. In one embodiment, when a user accesses a
content partner home page, they have the option of linking to a
sister site. As used herein, "sister site" is deemed to mean a site
that provides for navigation of the site using a simplified
navigation system, such as matrix navigation described in more
detail below. In one embodiment, the sister site is traditional
HTML pages converted to a matrix format to permit matrix
navigation. This conversion may be done using an XML transcoding or
any other suitable language.
[0044] Content partners may maintain a database of sister site web
pages corresponding to the pages in the general use site.
Alternatively, content partners may provide a facility for
converting web pages on the fly to the sister site format. Content
partners may also provide for segmentation of the base HTML web
pages and/or the matrix pages. A segmentation may be performed in a
number of ways. The page may be divided up based on content or
area. The net result, in any case, is that the web page is divided
into regions which are not necessarily, but may be, of equal size.
The individual regions may be brought into focus independently. By
"brought into focus," the concept of focus in this context is
analogous to the front window in a windowing system. The focus
region is deemed active and subject to client manipulation. In the
context of a matrix page, one suitable segmentation is by cell,
e.g., each cell corresponds to a region that may be independently
brought into focus. The borders of the regions may or may not be
visible on the web pages displayed. This segmentation facilitates
tab, scroll, and zoom features described in more detail below.
Alternatively, segmentation may be performed as part of a custom
browser on custom browser nodes or may be instantiated as a
hardware or firmware solution within, for example, the set top
box.
[0045] In another embodiment, a content partner or set of content
partners may produce the content of their websites or new content
in a format for use with the simplified navigation system. This
content may be generated in the form of HTML, XML or similar
scripting of description language based documents. This content may
closely mirror data from a sister site, it may contain additional
material, it may contain less material or the content may be
specifically for use with the simplified navigation system. Content
prepared for use with the simplified navigation system may be used
in any situation where content produced by the conversion process
is used. Content may be derived from any source for display on a
television, personal computer, wireless or cellular device or
similar device. Content may be prepared according to a template
format by a content provider. Content may reside in a central
server or be distributed across a network of computers. In one
embodiment, the navigation system provider may also provide a
template to be accessed by content providers for providing the
content to the navigation system provider. The template may be
downloadable or accessible through a browser or through the
simplified navigation system.
[0046] FIG. 2a is an exemplary web page having a sister site link.
By actuating the link, the client begins .receiving matrix pages as
described in more detail below. FIG. 2b shows an example first
matrix page reached by activating the sister site link in FIG. 2a.
FIG. 2c is a web page having irregular segmentation. Through
segmentation, the page is divided into regions. Individual regions
may then be brought into focus permitting simplified navigation,
viewing, and manipulation of the data within that region.
[0047] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of conversion of standard HTML
pages to a sister site format in one embodiment of the invention. A
hypertext markup language (HTML) page 40 is transcoded by a
transcoder 30 to yield, for example, an XML page 42 to which a
document type definition (DTD) 38 is applied. The DTD 38 specifies
the rules for the structure of the resulting XML document. The XML
page is then reformatted using extensible style language (XSL) 34
to corresponding format data 32. XSL is not currently supported by
all standard browsers. Thus, after formatting, the XML document is
translated to an extensible hypertext markup language (XHTML)
document for subsequent display by a client side browser on display
52. Alternatively, the XML page may have a cascading style sheet
(CSS) applied to achieve the desired format. One advantage of the
CSS is that it is supported by standard browsers. After application
of the CSS, the resulting formatted page can be displayed by the
client browser on display 52.
[0048] The above-described conversion may be done by a content
partner in advance of request for pages or may be done on the fly
responsive to requests for pages. The-determination of which to do
involves a trade off between latency in providing requested pages
and storage space required to store the additional pages. Some on
the fly conversion is desirable in the event that a user attempts
to access a web site that has not previously been converted. It is
also within the scope and contemplation of providing for conversion
on the client side.
[0049] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a client hardware architecture
of one embodiment of the invention. A processor 100 is coupled to
various memory units and an I/O bus bridge 110 by a local bus 102.
Among the expected memory units are random access memory (RAM) 106,
which may be any standard RAM, including standard dynamic random
access memory (DRAM), and may be symmetric or asymmetric. Also
coupled to bus 102 is a read-only memory (ROM) unit 108. The ROM
will typically include the boot code for the processor 100. A
non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) unit 104 is also coupled to the bus.
[0050] The I/O bus bridge 110 is coupled to the local bus 102 and
bridges to the I/O bus 112. A number of units may, reside on the
I/O bus, including a graphics module 114 that couples to a display
(not shown), a universal serial bus (USB) controller that may
couple the system to any number of additional USB devices. Common
USB devices include keyboards, mice, cameras, scanners, printers,
and other peripheral components and input/output devices.
Also-coupled to the I/O bus may be power management module 118,
which may be coupled to the power switch and may include
conventional power conservation protocols, ensuring the processor
100 is permitted to orderly conclude its current operation before
changing power states.
[0051] An infrared data association (IrDA) interface 120 permits
the terminal to be coupled to hand-held devices, if desired. In
some embodiments, a keyboard may be coupled by an Ir link. Storage
unit 122, which may, for example, be a flash memory unit, is used
for long-term storage of data or files. A transceiver 124 is used
to permit the processor to communicate with the hub, whether it be
a point-to-point link or across a network. The transceiver 124 may
be, but is not limited to, an ethernet transceiver, a modem,
digital subscriber line (DSL) or cable modem. It is expected that
the processor 100 will communicate through the transceiver 124 to
the server using transmission control protocol/internet protocol
(TCP/IP). Encryption and compression within the terminal may be
handled by conventional hardware or software solutions.
[0052] In one embodiment, Audio I/O interface 126 may include an
internal microphone and speaker which permits audio input and
output. This is particularly useful in the context of voice e-mail
or voice over IP communications. Additionally, some embodiments of
the invention will include speech to text (STT) capability 130 and
speech recognition (SR) capability 136. Various embodiments may
implement these capabilities as hardware or software or a
combination of both. In embodiments having SR capability, for
simplicity of use, it is desirable to use one of the multiple user
SR packages available today and expected to improve in the future,
as these packages avoid the necessity of "training" the system.
This permits recognition of content of speech and conversion to
text. In another embodiment, voice and audio input may be received
from a peripheral device electronically coupled to the system or
wirelessly coupled to the system.
[0053] For purposes of reduced cost, it may be desirable to use a
particularly simple speech recognition package, recognizing only,
for example, numbers and letters. A suitable speech recognition
package will permit a user to navigate the network as subsequently
described using voice commands and composed e-mails in a hands-free
manner. Such an embodiment has the additional advantage that it
enables Internet access to the physically challenged. In some
embodiments, SR 136 is present, but STT 130 is not. This may permit
the processor to respond to voice commands but would not permit
composition of e-mail, for example.
[0054] In one embodiment of the invention, the terminal has a
notebook form factor with an integrated LCD display. In an
alternative embodiment, the form factor is a set-top .box, which
relies on an external display, such as a television or external
monitor. In either case, a standard QWERTY keyboard could be used.
In the set top box embodiment, a wireless keyboard or remote is
desirable. Other peripheral devices may be used with the system
such as pointer or controller device. In a further embodiment, the
system may be internal to the display device.
[0055] FIG. 5a is a flow diagram of server side segmentation in one
embodiment of the invention. A request for a page is received at
functional block 400. A determination is made at decision block 402
whether the requested page has been segmented. If the page has not
been segmented, a determination is made at decision block 404
whether the requested page is a matrix page. If the requested page
is a matrix page, at functional block 406, the cells of the matrix
are each defined to be a region, thereby completing the
segmentation. If the page is not a matrix page, the page is
segmented either based on area or content. By "segmentation," it is
meant that the page is divided into a plurality of regions. The
regions may contain one or more links and/or some amount of
content. This segmentation facilitates usability as discussed in
more detail below. Once segmentation is complete, at functional
block 408, a determination is made if the boundaries of the regions
should be shown on the displayed page at decision block 410. If the
boundaries are to be shown, the boundaries are overlayed on the
page at functional block 412 after the overlay; or if no boundaries
are to be shown, the page is sent to the client node at functional
block 414.
[0056] FIG. 5b is a flow diagram of client side manipulation of a
segmented page in one embodiment of the invention. At functional
block 450, a segmented page is received at a client node. A
determination is made at decision block 452 if a tab input has been
received. As used herein, a tab input is any input which brings
about the functionality of moving the focus from one region to
another adjacent region. If no tab input has been received, a
determination is made at decision block 454 if the regions have
identifying symbols associated therewith. Particularly in the case
of matrix pages, the different cells typically have associated
therewith either an alphanumeric character or some symbol such as
an asterisk or other punctuation mark to identify the cell. If
there are identifications associated with the regions, a
determination is made at decision block 456 if such an
identification has been received as an input on the client node. If
the identification has been received the corresponding region is
brought into focus. The focus region is active, and in some
embodiments, the corresponding region is zoomed to increase its
size relative to the inactive regions at functional block 460. If
no identifications are associated with the region or no
identification is received, the client waits for a tab input at
decision block 452.
[0057] If a tab input is received, the next region is brought into
focus. If no region is currently in focus, a first region, e.g.,
the uppermost leftmost region, will be brought into focus at
functional block 458. At functional block 462, the regions are
scaled so that the in focus region is enlarged relative to the
regions which are not in focus. This is particularly desirable for
web browsing in a television context where distance from the set
may make reading the unscaled page difficult or impossible. Thus,
by scaling region by region, readability within the region can be
enhanced to permit use and browsing from a distance.
[0058] At functional block 464, a, first link in the focus region
is highlighted. As used herein, "highlighted" means made active
such that a subsequent input, such as a predefined key press
activates the link. Highlighting in the link context is analogous
to focus in the region context. Highlighting may, but need not
include, changing the link's appearance in any manner on the
display such as, for example, changing size, color, shading, etc. A
determination is made at decision block 466 if an enter signal has
been received. However, if no enter signal has been received, a
determination is made at decision block 468 if a scroll signal has
been input at the client node. If a scroll signal has been input, a
next link, is highlighted at functional block 472. If an enter
signal is received at functional block 466, then a highlighted link
is activated at functional block 474 and a next segmented page is
received, and the process begins again. Alternatively, if no scroll
signal input is received at decision block 468, a determination is
made at decision block 470 whether a tab or identification input
has occurred. If it has, the system continues processing at blocks
458 or 460, respectively.
[0059] FIG. 5c is a diagram showing a system implementing the tab,
scroll, and zoom features of one embodiment of the invention. A set
top box 500 is coupled to a television monitor 502 and is
responsive to remote. control 504. Remote control 504 may be a
custom remote control, a wireless keyboard, or even a standard
universal remote control. Remote control 504 may be equipped with a
microphone for accepting voice commands or may merely provide push
button inputs. In frame one, television 502 is displaying a web
page 510 that has been segmented into eight equally dimensioned
regions A-H. Remote control 504 includes a tab function 520, a
scroll function 522, and an enter function 524. Responsive to
actuation of the tab function, region A is brought into focus, as
shown in the second frame. Link one is highlighted and A is
enlarged, while the remaining regions are scaled so that A is much
larger relative to the other regions, thereby accomplishing a zoom
function and improving readability of the information contained in
region A. This is shown as web page 512. If, when A is in focus,
the user actuates scroll function 522, a second link in region A is
highlighted as shown on page 514. In one embodiment, scrolling
within the focus region does not effect the size or representation
of the non-focus regions. In the event that, at web page 512 or web
page 514, the enter function 524 is actuated, link.sub.1 or
link.sub.2 would be traversed, respectively. If the segments are
actually associated with their alphanumeric designator, and that
remote control 504 has alphanumeric keys, for example, letter key F
526, web page 516 shows a web page that would be reached from web
page 510, 512, or 514 responsive to actuation of the F key. In web
page 516, the F region is in focus, and the remaining regions are
scaled to be much smaller than the F region.
[0060] These are merely illustrative examples of the tab, scroll,
and zoom features of one embodiment of the invention. While the
shown embodiment tiles the regions, it is within the scope and
contemplation of the invention to overlay the focus region on one
or more of the other regions. It is also within the scope of the
invention to permit a user to increase the zoom of the focus region
to exceed the physical space. In such case, scrolling within the
region may be required to view the entire contents of the region.
Such scrolling need not effect the display of the non-focused
regions.
[0061] FIG. 6 is a flow chart of operations of the navigation
system of one embodiment of the invention in a custom terminal
custom browser node. Upon power-up at functional block 602, a
content partners home page is accessed. In some embodiments, it may
be possible to bypass access of the home page and go directly to
the sister site home page. At functional block 604, a node
establishes communication with a sister site server (SSS). At
functional block 605, a first matrix layer is received from the
SSS. At decision block 606, the node waits for a keypress. If at
decision block 606, a determination is made that a key has been
pressed, a determination is made at decision block 607 whether the
keypress corresponds to a composition cell. A composition cell is
deemed to be a cell in the navigation matrix which permits a user
to enter additional data. For example, a search cell or e.g., a
purchase order form or an e-mail may have one or more composition
cells. If the cell is a composition cell, the system enters
composition mode at functional block 632. In composition mode, the
digits of the keypad represent the digits themselves, rather than
navigation options. The cursor will also appear in the composition
field of the composition cell. At decision block 634, a
determination is made if the enter key has been pressed. The enter
key is defined in one embodiment of the invention to signify the
end of a composition. Thus, if the enter key has not been pressed,
the system remains in composition mode. However, if at decision
block 634, the enter key has been pressed, the system returns to
navigation mode at functional block 636. It is also within the
scope and contemplation to define other keys to instigate return to
the navigation mode.
[0062] If a keypress is received and not found to correspond to a
composition cell at decision block 607, a determination is made at
decision block 608 whether the matrix layer corresponding to the
keypress exists within the cache. In this connection, it is
determined whether a representation of that matrix layer, even if
in the cache, is stale and therefore needs to be freshly
downloaded. If the data is stale or not present in the cache at
all, the keypress event is sent to the SSS. In one embodiment, the
entire navigation path, including the keypress event, is sent with
each keypress. When the navigation path is sent with each keypress
event, the SSS is able to identify the requested matrix layer
rapidly on the fly.
[0063] Subsequently, at functional block 612, the client node
receives the updated matrix layer corresponding to the keypress
event. That matrix layer is loaded to the memory at functional
block 614 and the cache is time-stamped at functional block 616. At
functional block 618, new ads may be received from the SSS.
Notably, the receipt of the ads is asynchronous with the matrix
layer receipt and may occur at any time without being prompted by a
keypress event. At functional block 620, the incoming matrix layer
is rendered to a temporary buffer by using a double-buffering,
technique. The actual rendering is transparent to the user. At
functional block 622, the status bar for the load is updated to
indicate the percent complete of the matrix layer rendering. At
functional block 624, a determination is made if the rendering is
complete. If it is not, the buffer continues to render and the
status bar continues to update. By regularly updating the status
bar, the user is not left wondering if the device is working. This
is expected to limit the frustration experienced by many new users
during the wait while matrix layers are rendered. If the rendering
is complete, the temporary buffer is swapped with the frame buffer
and the new matrix layer is displayed at functional block 626. Then
at functional block 628, the history of the navigation path is
updated to reflect the new matrix layer. The system then returns to
await a next keypress to indicate further navigation. By
iteratively pressing appropriate keys, a user may navigate to any
desired depth up to a maximum depth along any navigation path and
obtain content relevant to the path navigated. If instead, the
matrix layer was validly in the cache at decision block 608, the
matrix layer is rendered from the cache at functional block 630 and
the system awaits the next keypress.
[0064] "Maximum depth" as used herein applies on a cell by cell
basis for primary navigation options. A maximum depth is reached
for a cell in a navigation path when pressing a corresponding key
will not take a user to a deeper matrix layer in the matrix. While
content, as distinguished from the matrix layer and their cell
headings, will be displayed once a maximum depth is reached, it is
within the scope and contemplation of the invention to display some
content in cells of an intermediate matrix layer, i.e. one that is
not at the maximum depth.
[0065] "Primary navigation options" as used herein are those
navigation options that necessarily change between successive
matrix layers, changing from general to more specific with
increases in depth in the matrix.
[0066] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of operation of the sister site
server of one embodiment of the invention. A determination is made
if the keypress event has been received at decision block 702. If
the keypress event has been received, a determination is made if
the matrix has reached maximum depth at decision block 704. If the
matrix has not reached the maximum depth, a matrix layer
corresponding to the keypress is sent at functional block 706. Such
matrix layers may or may not include content in cells with
navigation choices. If the matrix has reached maximum depth for
that navigation path, a content layer corresponding to the keypress
event is sent to the client node at functional block 708. A content
layer may or may not include matrix cells in addition to the
content. New ads are sent to the client node at functional block
710. The system then awaits the next keypress event from a client
node.
[0067] FIG. 8 is a diagram of the display of a graphical user
interface of one embodiment of the invention. The screen is divided
into a plurality of cells. In this embodiment, there are fifteen
cells that represent navigation options and one messaging cell for
displaying messages from the server, the progress or status bar,
and a title block. The cells can further be subdivided between the
digit keys 1-9 keys which, in this embodiment, represent the
primary set of, navigation options and the keys designated by
letters A-C which represent secondary navigation options and *, 0
and # keys that may be additional navigation options or provide
specialized functions. For example,, the * key may return the user
to the server home site, thereby leaving matrix navigation. The ABC
cells will typically hold advertising, and selecting one of those
cells will generate a matrix layer with primary navigation cells
directed to that advertiser or the product line being advertised.
While the interface is designed to be fully accessible with minimal
key strokes from a key pad, it is also within the scope and
contemplation of the invention to permit selection with a mouse or:
other pointer device.
[0068] FIGS. 9a-d are example sister site matrix pages. In FIG. 9a;
an advertising cell 900 is the focus region of the displayed image.
Ten advertisements are displayed within the regions. The first
advertisement 902 is highlighted. From this matrix page, the *
returns a user to the amazon.com home page. The # reveals the
contents of a user's shopping cart. In FIG. 9b, the contents of the
focus window have been enlarged (zoomed) such that only four
advertisements are displayed in ad cell 900. The no
links/advertisements are highlighted. In FIG. 9c, advertisement 902
is again highlighted. This may occur, for example, by a user
pressing a scroll key from FIG. 9b. In FIG. 9d, a user has pressed
a scroll key several times from FIG. 9c. Thus, advertisement 902
has scrolled out of view and advertisement 904 is highlighted.
While in this example, ten advertisements were present, the number
of links within such a cell may be arbitrarily large. In the shown
embodiment, scrolling through the links in the focus cell and
scaling the focus cell content does not effect the user's view of
the remaining cells.
[0069] FIGS. 10a-g are a series of matrix layers displayed during
an exemplary navigation using one embodiment of the invention. In
this example, navigation begins at the Shopping and Products matrix
layer and shown in FIG. 10a. A selection of 5 on the 10a matrix
layer yields an Electronics matrix layer shown in FIG. 10b.
[0070] Selecting 1 on the keypad when the matrix layer of 10b is
displayed yields the Audio matrix layer of FIG. 10c. By selecting
an 8 on the keypad when 10c is displayed, the system displays a
Receivers matrix layer of FIG. 10d, which breaks down receivers
into price categories and also provides the option of navigating,
in this embodiment, into Consumer Reports industry reports related
to receivers. Notably, in FIG. 10d, the number of primary
navigation options is reduced to 4. Thus, it is not necessary that
all layers of the matrix have the same number of cells, nor is it
required that all cells have the same size. A user can select
Stereo Only by pressing 1 on the keypad, which yields a stereo only
matrix layer shown in FIG. 10e.
[0071] In one embodiment of the invention, the products are ordered
based on some ranking system, such as Consumer Reports. Thus, for
example, in FIG. 10e, Technics received the highest ranking of
receivers in the selected category from Consumer Reports. It is
expected that for any particular product class, potential
purchasers are likely to only be interested in the top several
products within that class, not for example, the 15.sup.th best
receiver in the $150-$290 range. However, it is within the scope
and contemplation of the invention to permit a "more" option which
allows a user to get a set of the next most highly ranked products
and possibly unranked products as well. It is expected that
supplying product options in a user-friendly ranked order will
encourage users to be more willing to conduct e-commerce. In one
embodiment, products and services may be ranked according to
quality and other characteristics based on merchant or user
reviews. Ranking may also bee provided based on critic, neutral
party, and other similar review sources. A verbose review or a
simplified rating system such as a star or point system may be made
available. In a further embodiment, users may directly input
feedback and ratings into the system to dynamically update the
ranking system.
[0072] By selecting a 1 on the keypad when matrix layer 10e is
displayed, a user reaches the matrix layer of FIG. 10f, as well as
reaching the maximum depth for that navigation path. Thus, pressing
1 on the keypad in response to matrix layer 10f does not move the
user deeper into the multi-dimensional matrix, and content is
displayed in cell 1 indicating the model, price, picture, and
possibly other, information about the Technics product. Cell 1 is
also larger than the other cells.
[0073] Other navigation options are provided in additional matrix
cells surrounding cell 1 and its content. The additional cells
represent navigation paths that have not reached their maximum
depth. For example, by pressing a 3, one would get to a features of
the Technics product content layer. Such screen would display
features of the Technics system. The various navigation paths
typically have a maximum depth at which content is displayed.
However, reaching the maximum, depth of a particular navigation
path does not indicate that another navigation path may not have
yet a deeper matrix layer. For example, while the maximum depth of
the navigation path corresponded to cell 1 has been reach in FIG.
10f, selecting a 9 on the keypad will move a-user to a Technics
purchase matrix layer, shown in FIG. 10g. By selecting digits on
the keypad, a user can move between fields to fill out a purchase
form which, as discussed above, is one example of a matrix layer
including composition cells. In some embodiments, the form can be
filled in using keyboard input. In other embodiments, the speech to
text capabilities of the terminal will permit the user to fill out
the electronic purchase form orally.
[0074] FIG. 11 shows a history window overlying a navigation
matrix. The history window would appear if the history button on
the keypad were actuated. By using the up/down arrow key on the
keypad, the user may then select a prior matrix to jump to directly
without moving backwards or forwards iteratively. In one
embodiment, the history window may present a set of navigation
options corresponding to unique inputs allowing a user to select a
matrix layer in the history. In a further embodiment, a user may
select which positions or locations in the navigation interface are
stored in a favorites menu or display. History and favorite
locations may be stored in a console device, web appliance or
controller device. History and favorite locations may be stored at
a server and accessible by a user when using any console or web
appliance providing the simplified interface. A user may edit and
categorize favorites and history locations. A user may also
designate a location as a start point or a quick link mapped to a
unique input for quick navigation to favorite locations.
[0075] FIGS. 12a and b are an example matrix after a selection of 0
from the main menu screen,, which allows one to conduct a search
through cell 1. On this figure, advertisements for Jaguar appear in
the ABC cells. In one embodiment .of the invention, the ABC
designation appears initially (as shown in FIG. 12a) when the
screen is first refreshed and then fades away to reveal solely the
advertisement in each of those cells (as shown in FIG. 12b). In
this example, pressing an A on the keypad would take the user to a
matrix reflecting company information about Jaguar. Pressing B
would take the user to a matrix for the virtual showroom, and C
would take the user to a purchase screen for the advertised
item.
[0076] In some cases, the advertising cells are merged as a single
cell showing a single advertisement and permitting navigation to
only a single matrix layer therefrom. In one embodiment, the
background can be an advertisement. This is also shown in FIGS. 12a
and b. Significantly, the advertisement can be targeted by
modifying the ad responsive to the apparent navigation path of the
user. This leaves the potential of showing the user an
advertisement for a product or service more likely to be of
interest. For example, when a user selects Electronics in the
example of FIGS 10a-g, the next screen may have as background an
advertisement, e.g. for Circuit City.
[0077] In another embodiment, advertisements displayed in a cell
may change over time. The navigation option corresponding to the
displayed advertisement if selected leads to a different matrix
layer dependent on the advertisement displayed at the time the
navigation option was chosen. For example, a navigation option may
have alternating advertisements displayed for an automobile or for
clothing. If the automobile advertisement is being displayed at the
time that the corresponding navigation option is selected, then a
new matrix layer may be displayed containing information about the
automobile and further navigation options related to the
automobile. In another embodiment, when a navigation option is
selected with changing advertisements, a new matrix layer may be
displayed containing each advertisement as a separate option. This
new matrix layer allows a user to select a desired advertisement
without time constraints or timing issues. Categories and other
navigation option types may also be time sensitive or change over
time. A user may select to disable this option or alter the time
constraints to their individual preferences.
[0078] FIG. 13 shows the e-mail creation screen for one embodiment
of the invention. This would be reached by pressing 3 on the keypad
when the matrix layer of FIG. 9d is displayed. Again, all e-mail
functions other than actually entering the text and the address can
be performed using the simple interface with numerical digits and
the letters ABC corresponding to inbox, the outbox, and the sent
features of standard e-mail, respectively. Entering a message may
be done in a composition mode where the controller inputs are
mapped to a set of alpha-numeric characters. In one embodiment, the
simplified navigation interface may provide forms to support
instant messaging, electronic mail, Internet relay chat (IRC), and
other chat applications. These electronic messages may be sent
through a private network or a WAN such as the Internet to users on
any type of machine capable of receiving the messages including
other users of console devices and web appliances that provide the
simplified navigation interface.
[0079] In one embodiment, a console or web appliance that can run
the simplified interface may provide a visual or audio indicia to a
user when a message is received. The console or web appliance may
display the indicia in connection with any channel on a television.
For example, a user may receive a message from another user while
watching a television program. A symbol, a part of the message or
the whole message may be display over the program or in place of
the program. The indicia may be displayed in a non-intrusive manner
to avoid interrupting the viewing of the program. The console
system may also support the display of a set of indicia to indicate
a set of users is utilizing their console device, or online using
another type of computer, web appliance or console device.
[0080] FIG. 14 shows an alternative matrix page of one embodiment
of the invention. In this embodiment, the matrix occupies only a
portion of the screen real estate. The remaining real estate may be
occupied by content, a zoom of the focus cell, or advertising.
[0081] The simplified navigation system may be used for specific
applications and systems. In one embodiment, the simplified
navigation system is used as an interface for an interactive
television shopping system. In this embodiment, the content from
multiple providers may be interleaved to form a hierarchy of
content. This interleaving of content organizes the shopping
experience such that a user can easily browse the shopping system
using the simplified navigation interface. Products and services
may be grouped by sellers and categories in order to assist the
user in finding a desired product or service. This system may
utilize primary navigation options and allow a user to select
categories, products, services, and sellers using a unique input. A
primary navigation option in this context may be an option that is
correlated with a specific-category, seller, product or similar
content. In another embodiment, the system uses scrolling
mechanisms, pulldown menus, rolling displays, pointing mechanisms,
hot keys, enter commands or similar interfaces or navigation
options. Navigation options that the alternative interface
mechanisms may be applied to include ordinary navigation options
and navigation options related to advertisements. Advertisements
may be navigable content. The content of advertisements may be web
based, specialized format or similar content. A navigation option
related to an advertisement may be selected by a user in order to
obtain a further matrix level containing further information or
navigation options related to the advertisement. In a further
embodiment, combinations of these interfaces or navigation options
may be utilized. The simplified matrix navigation system is used
herein with the exemplary interactive television shopping
mechanism. Other interface and navigation options may be used in
combination with or in place of the simplified matrix navigation
system. The interfaces may be used with the email and search
systems of the simplified navigation interface.
[0082] The interactive television shopping system utilizes the
physical system of servers and clients described in regard to the
simplified navigation system. The interactive television shopping
system is not limited to use with televisions. The system may also
be used with web devices, console systems, (e.g., gaming systems,
set top, boxes, and similar systems) and similar devices. The
communication data including matrix layer content, user data and
similar information relevant to the system may be transmitted and
received over a network as described in the previous exemplary
embodiments. In another embodiment, other communication methods may
be used to transmit at least a portion of the data related to the
system. In one embodiment cable systems, telephone systems,
cellular or wireless systems including wireless fidelity (WIFI)
systems and similar communication systems may be used to deliver a
navigation interface to a user, obtain data (e.g., purchase
information) from a user, or compile user data from a set top box,
television service providers or similar source.
[0083] FIG. 15 is an illustration of a simplified navigation
interface to be displayed on a television or similar display
device. Matrix layer 1511 includes a set of navigation options
intended to allow a simple search or browsing of products and
services offered by a single or multiple manufacturers, retailers
or distributors. Exemplary initial matrix layer 1511 may be a
starting or top level matrix layer. In this embodiment, a user
starts at this layer of the navigation hierarchy when shopping.
Matrix layer 1511 includes a set of options that are each related
to a unique input. The unique input may be received from a remote
control, peripheral device or similar input mechanism. Each option
corresponds to a broad classification of goods or services. For
example, option `1` 1501 is related to Apparel & Accessories.
Other options presented to a user include access to a search page.
1503, access to reports and reviews 1509, access to a displayed
advertisement 1507 and similar options. Each interface screen may
include a limited set of options in order to maintain the overall
simplicity of the navigation. A user selects an option presented at
the top level matrix 1511, which results in a new matrix layer
being generated based on that selection. In one embodiment, each
matrix layer may present an option to display additional options at
the same level of the navigation hierarchy. In a further
embodiment, multiple top level or start matrices may be supported
by the interactive television shopping network. Separate top level
matrices may be related to separate television or sponsor channels
and represent separate or interleaving navigable hierarchies of
products.
[0084] FIG. 16 is an illustration of an intermediate level of a
navigation hierarchy. In one embodiment, matrix layer 1611 may be
generated when a user selects a top level category. In another
embodiment, matrix layer 1611 may be generated as a result of a
search. Matrix layer 1611 includes a set of options corresponding
to a set of sellers of products related to the category chosen from
matrix layer 1511 or related to a keyword or other search indicator
input into a search page. As used in the context of the interactive
television shopping system a product may be a service offered by a
seller or an item offered for sale by the seller. Sellers in this
context may be retailers, distributors, manufacturers, processing
centers or fulfillment houses offering products or service for
sale. Matrix layer 1611 may present a set of sellers of electronics
as options, option `9` from top matrix layer 1511. Intermediate
level matrix layer 1611 may include options offering a search page
1603, reports and review of material present in the matrix (e.g.,
stores, retailers and other sellers of merchandise), additional
options and similar options. Matrix layer 1611 may also display
advertisements 1609. Selecting an option from intermediate level
matrix 1611, such as Best Buy 1601, may result in the generation of
an additional intermediate level matrix with information that
presents options with greater specificity. The navigation system
may include any number of levels in its hierarchy. In another
embodiment, the intermediate levels of matrices may include
additional subcategories of products and services. In a further
embodiment, sellers may be options in a top level matrix of a
navigation hierarchy and the intermediate level matrices may
include categories of products offered by the seller. Similar
combinations of categories and seller options within the hierarchy
may also be used.
[0085] FIG. 17 is a diagram of an intermediate level of a
simplified navigation interface for use in shopping in an
interactive television system. In this embodiment, of the
invention, sellers of products are presented that are related to
the category of products selected from a top level matrix. In this
embodiment, sellers are selected and displayed based on the
location of a user. Sellers may be presented as options in a matrix
layer if they are within a specified geographic distance from the
location of a user. For example, in one exemplary embodiment,
sellers sharing a zip code with the residence of a user are
presented as options in the matrix layer. Matrix layer 1711
presents an exemplary embodiment of the invention, where a set of
local electronics sellers are listed after the Electronics option
is selected at a top or higher level in the hierarchy than the
current matrix layer 1711. In one embodiment, advertisement 1709 is
present in matrix layer 1711. This advertisement may also be
selected based on geographical proximity of the advertiser to the
residence of the user. Additional sellers may be accessed by
selecting an option 1705 that alters the geographical location or
distance utilized by the system to find sellers local to the user.
In one embodiment, the location of a user is obtained via a cable
or set top box provider, subscription service provider or similar
intermediary service provider. A user may call the interactive
television shopping service provider to indicate the location of a
user. In a further embodiment, the user may alter or set the
location data including residence address, base search address for
proximity determinations, proximity range and similar data through
a settings screen or matrix layer accessible as an option from a
layer of the hierarchical navigation system or through a set top
box or similar physical device related to the interactive
television system. In one embodiment, the user may switch between a
local and national or regional presentation of content. The
navigation interface may include an option that switches between a
local and regional display.
[0086] FIG. 18 is a diagram of an intermediate level of a
hierarchical navigation interface for use in shopping in an
interactive television system. Matrix layer 1811 is an exemplary
embodiment of the invention where an intermediate level of the
navigation hierarchy displays categories of goods and services
offered by a seller. An option 1801 may be selected by a user to
display a lower level matrix layer of the navigation hierarchy that
lists the goods and services in that category offered by the
seller. In one embodiment, the seller is a local seller and the
categories, goods and services displayed as options for a user are
available at the local seller's store or establishment. In one
embodiment, each seller provides the interactive television
shopping provider with inventories, lists and similar data
detailing the goods and services available at each location of the
seller. For example, matrix layer 1811 may be the matrix layer
below matrix layer 1711 where the `Best Buy` option has been
selected. Matrix layer 1811 includes a set of options 1801 related
to the types of goods sold by Best Buy at its Culver City store
which in this example is the closest store to a user having a zip
code of 90066.
[0087] FIG. 19 is a diagram .of a low level matrix of a
hierarchical navigation interface for use in shopping in an
interactive television system. Matrix layer 1911 includes a display
section 1901 where details including price, product information,
images, usage information and similar information regarding the
product may be displayed. In one embodiment, the display section or
other section of a matrix display including an advertising option,
may include audio or video content. The video or audio content may
be played when a matrix layer is accessed. The video or audio may
be replayed by selecting an option. Additional options such as an
option 1921 to provide additional details regarding the product may
be presented as well. Additional options may include but are not
limited to availability of the product at a location or set of
locations, a presentation of additional product information, a
presentation of similar products, price comparisons at a set of
stores and similar information. In one embodiment, the low level
matrix 1911 includes an option 1903 to enable a user to initiate
the purchase of the displayed item. In, one embodiment, the
navigation system tracks the items that a user has indicated an
interest in purchasing. The navigation system may display an
interface for inputting purchase. information. In one embodiment,
low level matrix layer 1911, or higher level matrix layers display
contact information such as a telephone number for initiating a
purchase of the products displayed via the navigation system.
[0088] In another embodiment, the content accessible in the
interactive television shopping system may-be accessible through
other interfaces, including web browsers, specialized applications
and similar interfaces. The content may be accessible through a
personal computer, web appliance, hand held device or similar
system. The content accessible through these systems may be
filtered based on the location of a user. The location of the user
may be input into the interface. This embodiment allows for the
same access to searches, email, purchasing and other features of
the matrix simplified navigation system.
[0089] FIG. 20 is a flowchart depicting a system for enabling a
user to purchase items using an interactive television shopping
system, including enabling the purchase of multiple products from
different sellers. In one embodiment of the invention, a simplified
navigation system including a hierarchy of categorization for
sellers and products is made available via a television, web
appliance or similar display mechanism (block 2001). A user
indicates the products that are desired to be purchased by
selecting an option related to the product (block 2003). A user may
indicate products to be purchased by selecting a corresponding
option displayed in relation to the product to be purchased. In one
embodiment, the user may select multiple products to be purchased,
which are tracked by the navigation system provider. Navigation
system provider may include options and displays that allow a user
to manage the set of products that are to be purchased by a user.
In one embodiment, the navigation system may display a list of
products selected and allow a user to remove a product or modify
the number of products to be purchased. Navigation system may
maintain a shopping cart for each user.
[0090] When a user is prepared to complete a purchase of products
that have been selected the user may select a method of purchasing
the products (block 2005). The user may choose to utilize a
displayed phone number to call a call center provided by navigation
system provider (block 2007). A user may indicate the products to
be purchased by informing a call center operator of a unique
identifier for each product to be purchased. The navigation system
assigns a unique identifier to each product in the hierarchy. In
one embodiment, navigation, system unique identifiers may indicate
the product type, seller and similar information related to the
product. The identifier may encode these details about a product. A
call center operator records the unique identifiers for the
products to be purchased by the user (block 2009).
[0091] In one embodiment, during the process of obtaining purchase
data from the user the call center operator enters the data into
the navigation and shopping system to generate a display screen
sent to a user that displays the information provided by the user
including the list of products selected by the user (block 2011).
In one embodiment, the information obtained by the call center
operator is by verbal communication. In another embodiment,
information may be gathered with the assistance of electrical
devices such as electronic card readers (e.g. credit card readers),
facsimile devices or similar input or communication devices. The
call center operator also obtains information needed to complete
the purchase including but not limited to: credit card information,
shipping address, quantity, warranty options, delivery options and
similar purchasing information (block 2013). When a user calls a
call center, data related to the user may be retrieved based on a
matching of the user's telephone number with the data stored
regarding that user. In another embodiment, the user may be
identified by a personal identification number, through a system
provider back channel, or similar system for associating a user
with the navigation feed sent to the user. In a further embodiment,
a telephone or voice communication system may be integrated with a
console or similar system supporting the interactive television
shopping service. The console includes identification information
in the voice communications with the call center.
[0092] The purchase information given by the user, including
payment information, product information and delivery information
may also be displayed via the interactive television shopping
system (block 2011). The user may be asked to confirm the purchase
by reviewing the purchase information displayed through the
interactive television system (block 2015). In another embodiment,
the information is not displayed via the interactive television
system.
[0093] A user may choose to complete a purchase using an online
method. In this scenario the selected products are displayed via
the interactive television system (block 2011). A user may confirm
or edit the list of displayed products by removing or altering the
amount of the products to be purchased. In one embodiment, the user
may adjust the seller of a product to choose another seller that
also provides the product. Alternate sellers may be available by
selecting an option associated with a listed product. A user may
confirm the purchase list provided by the interactive television
system by selecting a confirmation option. Payment information may
then be obtained though forms or similar interactive input
mechanisms (block 2013). A user confirms the input information and
the purchase is completed (block 2015).
[0094] In another embodiment, purchase information including
payment information such as credit card numbers as well as shipping
addresses and similar data is obtained through a cable or set top
box service provider, subscription service provider or similar
source. This information is stored by the interactive television
shopping system provider and displayed when a user calls a call
center or confirms a product list to be purchased. The user then
confirms and may modify any of the data displayed by the system.
When the user is satisfied that the information is correct the user
may confirm the purchase information and the purchase will then be
processed.
[0095] In a further embodiment, the call center may be automated
using recorded voice messages and options that allow a user to
enter personal and purchase information through a touch tone phone
or similar mechanism. Products to be purchased may be identified by
entering in the unique identifier associated with the product. The
user may be presented with a series of options allowing them to
choose between services offered by the automated call center
including product purchasing information, order status information,
customer service and similar options. A user may elect to bypass
the automated system by selecting to speak with a human operator.
In one embodiment, the call center or automated call center may
utilize a videophone, computer based phone or similar apparatus. In
this embodiment, the call center operator or system present options
for the user visually to be selected verbally by the user or
through an input system such as a keypad.
[0096] Finalized purchases may cause interactive shopping
television provider to forward the purchase information to the
sellers of the products purchased by the user. Sellers may then
fulfill the orders made by the user by reserving the items
purchased at a designated store or by shipping the item to the user
dependent on the delivery options selected by the user. Similarly,
the system provider may handle billing of the purchases in a
centralized manner or may distribute the purchases to the sellers
and allow the sellers to separately bill a user for the products
purchased. Billing may be coordinated through a call center,
network server, local store, seller service center or similar
establishment. Interactive television shopping system provider may
have an established relationship with the seller such that the
system provider may coordinate the shipping of the items and handle
customer service including order returns, modifications, exchanges,
shipping questions and similar matters.
[0097] FIG. 21 is a diagram of an interface for the management of
advertising and seller client accounts with the interactive
television shopping system. In one embodiment, interactive
television shopping network bases the order and level of sellers
and advertisers in the navigation hierarchy on a set of factors
including the bid by an advertiser or seller for a category, search
keyword, location, time of day, date and similar factors. An
advertiser may be a client that pays for the display of ads or
listings in the navigation system. A seller may be a retailer,
vendor, distributor, manufacturer, fulfillment house or similar
entity that seeks to have its .products and services listed in the
navigation hierarchy.
[0098] In one embodiment, advertisers and sellers manage their
accounts with the interactive television shopping system using
interface 2111. An advertiser or seller may select a set of search
keywords or hierarchy categories that a product is to be listed
under or an advertisement to be displayed in connection with that
keyword or category when it is input or selected by a user 2101.
The advertiser or seller may place a bid for the use of the keyword
or category 2103. This system may be a keyword auction system where
keywords and categories are given to a highest bidder. Interactive
television shopping provider may determine the order or frequency
in which an advertisement, seller or product is displayed based on
ranking the bids amongst the clients (i.e., advertisers and
sellers) of the interactive television shopping provider 2105. The
system of ranking or ordering the categories, sellers, products or
similar content may be a bid for placement system where the
placement of the content is determined by the bidding of the
clients though the auction keyword system. In addition, an
advertiser or seller may designate a geographic location to which
an advertisement or product is tied 2109. Also, the product or
advertisement display may further be dependent on a time frame
designated by the advertiser or seller 2107. The bidding system may
utilize any time frame for categorizing advertisements and
listings. The time criteria may include date, day of the week,
year, week, month, time of day, hour or similar unit of time or
combinations thereof.
[0099] In this manner the advertiser or seller may closely target
an intended audience or users that have known locations, shopping
times or similar patterns of behavior. Other criteria that may be
used to target advertising and product listings include, dates,
shopper profile information, shopping cart information, related
search or category designations and similar factors useful in
targeting products and advertisements at a desired user group. For
example, an ice cream store advertising using the interactive
television shopping network may designate summer months, afternoon
times, and locations within a seven mile radius of its store. An
advertiser or seller may set separate bids for each permutation of
the targeting criteria in order to set their bids in order to reach
their target audience at a cost commensurate with expected returns.
In one embodiment, bids are the rates for fees that are charged to
clients of the interactive television shopping system provider
based on the number of clicks, purchases, or similar performance
indicators that result from the display of the seller or its
products via the system. This system may be used for a pay for
performance system where fees and billing to a client is based on
the tracking of the performance data. In one embodiment, the
simplified navigation system may tally the number of clicks
associated with each client at each level of the navigation system
and generate an associated charge to the account of the client or
to add to the bill of a client.
[0100] In another embodiment, flat fees for advertising related to
keywords, categories, dates, times or other targeting criteria may
be charged to a client. In one embodiment, a client may have a
national or international account with the interactive television
shopping provider. A national or international account places
listings and advertisements on keyword search result pages,
navigation matrix layers and similar displays of the system for
users in most or all locations that the service is provided.
Advertisements and listings may be designated for any location type
including countries, states, provinces, regions and similar
locations. A client may also have a local account that allows a
designation of advertisement or listings for a small regions such
as a city, postal code area or similar region. A combination of
local and national or international advertising and listings is
also allowed by the system.
[0101] In one embodiment, account management interface 2111
includes an input and modification form or similar updating or
modifying mechanism in order to add, cancel or modify the set of
bids established by the client. In a further embodiment, the
account management interface 2111 allows the monitoring and
production of reports based on profiling information collected by
the interactive television shopping system provider. In this
embodiment, the system provider tracks the individual information
of user including personal information such as age, gender, income
and similar factors and correlates the information with the
browsing pattern of the user and the purchases of the user.
Additional information collected by the system includes but is not
limited to times of shopping by users, locations of users,
locations of purchases, related purchases of a user and similar
information about a user and the user shopping patterns. This
information may be used to allow advertisers and sellers to tailor
their advertisements and product placement in the navigation
systems in order to correlate their display with the browsing and
purchase patterns of the users.
[0102] In one embodiment, the system may utilize user profile
information to target advertising at an individual user. The system
may track the purchasing history of a user and the viewing and
usage habits of the user. The system may also track the viewing
habits of the user for television programming. Similar products,
product types, and brands to prior purchased or viewed products may
be displayed in ads directed at a specific user. Any user profile
data may be used by the system to target ads for a specific
user.
[0103] In one embodiment, the identity of a user may be linked with
an identification system. A user may select or have assigned a
unique identifier. This unique identifier can be linked with
profile information of the user. The unique identifier may also be
used as a security measure such as a password or similar system or
may be linked with a security measure such as a password or similar
system. The identifier may be any combination of alphanumeric
symbols or other symbols. In one embodiment, the unique identifier
may be used to provide financial data such as credit card
information during purchase of products or services.
[0104] In a further embodiment, the navigation system and content
of the interactive television shopping system may be utilized and
displayed as a directory lookup service. The sellers are
categorized by their service and goods. When a seller is selected,
contact information including telephone, address and website
information may be displayed. This system may be integrated with
the interactive television shopping system or accessible as a
separate system. The directory look up service may also have
listings ordered according to a keyword auction system and
utilizing a pay for performance system. The directory lookup
service may filter displayed searches based on the location of the
user. For example, a user living in the zip code of 90066 who is
looking for a plumber using the directory lookup services may
choose to filter the directory based on locality. Only plumbers in
90066 or surrounding areas are then listed in the directory.
[0105] In a further embodiment, the interactive television shopping
system may be used in conjunction with an auctioning system,
reverse auctioning system or similar system for bidding on goods
and services. The interactive television shopping system may also
support providing a simplified navigation and interactive display
for use with gaming systems including gaming systems that allow for
gambling on events such as horse races, games such as blackjack,
the lottery and, similar services. The interactive television
shopping and navigation system may also be used as an interface for
providing access to online video and gambling games and similar
services.
[0106] FIG. 22 is a diagram of input device 2200 for use with the
simplified navigation system. Device 2200 may be a wireless device,
utilizing IR communication, RF communication, wireless fidelity or
similar modes of communication with a television, television set
top device, console device, web appliance or similar system. Device
2200, includes a set of keys or buttons 2201 for generating unique
inputs that correlate with displayed options of a navigation
system. Device 2200 may have any number of keys 2201 including
digit keys, alphanumeric keys, symbol keys or similar keys. Device
2200 may include specialized navigation keys 2205 such as a `back`
key, `forward` key or similar key. In one embodiment, device 2200
may include a pointer device such as a roller ball 2203. Pointer
device 2203 may be used to move a cursor over the navigation matrix
layer in order to select an option. Device 2200 may include an
enter key to confirm selections. In another embodiment, depressing
pointer device 2203 functions as an enter key. In one embodiment,
as the cursor moves over a navigation option the navigation option
is highlighted by changing the color of the option, the color or
contrast of the boarder of the option or through similar visual
cues.
[0107] In another embodiment, a voice recognition or activation
system may be used with the interactive television shopping system.
A user may select a navigation option by audibly reciting the
option. The option is recognized by the set top box, console, web
appliance or similar device that displays the system over a
television, liquid crystal display or similar display device. In
one embodiment, device 2200 includes a microphone or similar audio
sensor 2207 to receive audio input. This input may be used to
navigate the simplified interface.
[0108] In a further embodiment, the audio sensor 2207 may be used
in device 2200 to communicate with the user of another device 2200,
a user of a console or web appliance implementing the simplified
navigation system for another television, locally or remotely, with
a call center operator or any other telecommunication device.
Device 2200 may be used to facilitate the purchasing of a product
or service or the obtainment of information by allowing a user to
speak with a customer service agent or salesperson. Device 2200 may
relay voice input to a console device or web appliance to be sent
to the intended receiver. The communication session may be
initiated through the simplified interface by navigating to or
selecting an appropriate interface option. Device 2200 may also
include a speaker device to facilitate communication between a user
of a device and another telecommunication device. In another
embodiment, the incoming audio may be output through the speakers
of a television, a console device or speaker system connected to a
console device or television.
[0109] In one embodiment, device 2200 may be used in combination
with other services and tools to provide easy communication with
customer service agents, sales people, friends, family and others.
Navigation options may provide quick-dial options to call these
individuals. The simplified interface may provide a general dial
pad to call any telecommunications device via a conventional
telephone number or similar method.
[0110] In one embodiment, device 2200 may include a memory device
2209 to store user information, voice messaging and similar data.
Memory device 2209 may be removable from device 2200 to allow
upgrading of the functionality or capacity device 2200. Memory
device 2209 may act as a storage device for voice or similar input
or may store program information for the control of device 2200 or
for facilitating communication with a console device or web
appliance. Memory device 2209 may store user preferences and
profile information. This may allow a user to utilize the
preferences and profile data in other devices, including with a
device 2200 of another user, or the console or web appliance of
another user. For example, a user may store credit card information
used for purchasing products in memory device 2209. When visiting
the house of a friend with an interactive television system and
device 2200, the user may insert memory device 2209 and utilize the
system as if in the users own home or using the users own
devices.
[0111] FIG. 23 is an illustration of feedback screen. In one
embodiment, feedback screen 2301 may be utilized in connection with
an audible prompt. An audible prompt may be a short alerting sound
to draw the attention of a user to the feedback screen. A feedback
screen may be a display of the simplified navigation system that
provides or reiterates information to a user related to a recent
task of a user. For example, if a user is using the interface to
purchase a product the feedback screen may display purchase
information such as a product list, credit card information or
similar purchase information. The feedback screen may also include
information requesting the confirmation 2305 or cancellation 2307
of an action of the user to which the audible prompt draws
attention.
[0112] In another embodiment, the audible prompt may be a recorded
or simulated human voice. The voice message may draw the attention
of the user to important information or request confirmation of a
previous input or previously provided information. The voice
message may audibly repeat the information or prompt the user to
review displayed information. For example, after the user indicates
a desire to purchase a product through the simplified navigation
interface an audible prompt may request that the user provide a
specific input, such as a 1 on a keypad, to confirm the
purchase.
[0113] In a further embodiment, an audible prompt may be any
simulated, original, or recorded sound. A user may customize the
interface to use a sound or set of sounds that are preferred by the
user. The user may also elect to disable the audible prompts. The
audible prompts may be used by any aspect of the simplified
navigation interface. The audible prompt may serve as a feedback
mechanism by indicating that an input has been received and which
input was received by the interface. The simplified interface may
use an audible prompt or part of a service for visually impaired
users. Full readback of any visual material such as text and
description of illustration and pictures may be provided.
[0114] FIG. 24 is an illustration of an interface for a video or
interactive media presentation. In one embodiment, the simplified
navigation interface may display video or interactive media 2401.
Video may be used to display or describe the properties of a
product being sold or may be a product or service itself. Video may
be compressed, live, recorded or similar types of video. Video
formats may include MPEG, AVI, Quicktime and similar formats. The
media may be a streaming media, a Flash presentation, Shockwave
presentation or similar display format or system. Playback of the
media may include a set of controls for playing pausing, stopping,
fast forwarding or rewinding the media. In one embodiment, the
media may be a motion picture television show or similar video
program. The video may be supplied in an on-demand basis. A user
may use the interface to select and view a portion of a video
feature. If the feature is selected, then the full feature may be
played.
[0115] In one embodiment, the media may be interactive and allow a
user to manipulate the viewing angle, magnification and similar
attributes of the presentation of the media. The simplified
interface may include a set of controls 2403 to manipulate the
media. For example, controls may correspond to unique input options
and control the rotation of a product being viewed horizontally,
vertically and allow zoom in and zoom out. The presentation of the
displayed information may be in the form of a three dimensional
model or similar presentation.
[0116] FIG. 25 is an illustration of a simplified navigation
interface for mapping and product tracking. In one embodiment, the
interface displays a map 2501 of a location. The map may display
the location of a product or service. Map 2501 may display the
location of a store providing the product or service. In one
embodiment, the simplified interface may include product tracking
information 2505. Product tracking information may include location
of a product, shipping route of a product, shipping or tracking
number, carrier information, packaging information, return
information, pick tip information delivery information, inventory
information about a product and similar product information. In one
embodiment, the simplified interface may provide additional
navigation options or information that detail product tracking
information and options.
[0117] In one embodiment, the simplified interface may provide
controls for adjusting the view of map 2501. Map 2501 may display
the location of a product or store using a symbol 2503 such as a
star. Map 2501 may be zoomed in, zoomed out, re-centered, shifted
east, west, north or south. Map 2501 may offer varying level of
detail. The simplified interface may also provide directions, for
example driving directions, to the location of a store, product or
service.
[0118] FIG. 26 is an illustration of a three dimensional simplified
interface. In one embodiment, the simplified navigation interface
may be three dimensional. Navigation options 2601 may lie in
different planes from one another. A user may rotate or alter the
viewing angle of a three dimensional model representing a set of
navigation options. Selecting a navigation option may alter the
three dimensional representation by changing the shape of the
representation, changing the set of navigation options associated
with the model or similar transformation may be made to alter the
set of available navigation options to the user. In one embodiment,
three dimensional model 2605 may be cube shaped or a three
dimensional rectangular shape. In another embodiment, any three
dimensional geometric shape may be used. Model 2605 may be rotated
such that one side of model 2605 may be highlighted and its
navigation options activated. A set of navigation options displayed
by model 2065 that are currently active may have a corresponding
category 2603. Model 2605 may be rotated and present additional
categories. In one embodiment, the number of categories is not
limited to the number of surfaces of the object. A category rotated
out of view may be replaced with a new category to be rotated into
view.
[0119] FIG. 27 is an illustration of a system for providing video
and gambling games and similar entertainment through a television.
The games may be delivered over a public or private network, cable
system, or similar communication system. Gambling and video games
2703 may be executed on a server 2701 at a service provider
location such as a central office of a cable provider or similar
broadcart service. Display information may be sent across a network
2705 to a console device 2707 or similar appliance. Console 2707
may execute a portion of the video game code or facilitate display
of the gambling or video game on an associated television 2709. In
another embodiment, the game may be primarily executed at central
server 2702. Central server 2701 and console may be separated from
one another by any distance.
[0120] In one embodiment, central server 2701 may provide any
number of different video or gambling games. The simplified
navigation interface may be used to access a menu of available
games and initiate the games by selection as a navigation option.
The games may be full screen or partial screen displays. A video
game may be any type of interactive game played by one or more
users including first person shooting games, logic games,
simulation games, adventure games and similar games. A gambling
game may be any type of gambling interface or system. A gambling
game may include an interface to take bets on live sports games,
horse racing and similar events. Gambling games may also include
card games, dice games and similar casino games such as black jack,
poker, roulette, and other casino games played by one or more
users.
[0121] A user may utilize a remote control such as a television
remote control to pay the video or gambling game. Control input may
be received from remote control 2711 and sent to server 2701.
Multiple players may play any instance of a game using a second
remote control with console 2207 or a separate system 2713. The
separate system may be located anywhere. In one embodiment, the
simplified interface may be, used to provide additional game play
tools to the game selection menus and options. The simplified
interface may provide information about the "on-line" status of
other users through a `buddy list," game match up tools to assist a
user in finding a game, game tournaments, ladders, chat rooms,
messaging, email .and similar game assistance tools.
[0122] FIG. 28 is a diagram of a simplified interface for
organizing multimedia. In one embodiment, the simplified interface
may be used to organize multimedia files. The multimedia files may
be stored locally in a console device or web appliance executing
the simplified interface or may be store in a device in
communication with the console device or web appliance. For
example, a console device may be in wireless communication with a
DVD player or similar device and be able to access the multimedia
files stored on a removable disk in the DVD drive. The simplified
interface may categorize the multimedia files by file type, author,
size, genre or similar category. For example, the simplified
navigation interface may categorize music files into a set of
navigation options 2801 such as rap, R&B, rock, country, pop,
world and similar music categories.
[0123] FIG. 29 is a diagram of a simplified interface for
organizing and playing multimedia. In one embodiment, a set of
multimedia files may be presented as a set of navigation options
2901 that indicated a file name or similar identification of the
multimedia files. If a greater number of files are available than
can be shown in a single screen, the additional files may be
accessible by navigating to a next or deeper level of the
interface. In one embodiment, selecting a navigation option
corresponding to a multimedia file will play the multimedia file
through the television or a device in communication with the
console or web appliance. In one embodiment, the console or web
appliance may facilitate the transfer of multimedia files from one
location to another. For example, a remote console device or server
may make accessible a set of multimedia files. Selecting a
multimedia file available from a remote location may allow a user
to purchase that file and transfer the file to a local storage
space.
[0124] In one embodiment, the simplified navigation system may
support the uploading of digital pictures for display on
television. The digital pictures may be grouped or categorized
using the simplified interface. The simplified interface may
support the creation of picture slide shows, online photo albums
and similar services. A console device executing a simplified
navigation interface may have a port to communicate with a digital
camera to allow the transfer of images from a camera to the console
device or web appliance. In one embodiment, the port may be a
universal serial bus port. The digital images may be stored locally
on the console device or web appliance or remotely on a server. The
digital pictures may be used in connection with auctioning services
to demonstrate the condition and look of an item to be auctioned.
The digital pictures may be attached to electronic messages to be
sent to other individuals. The digital pictures may also be made
web accessible.
[0125] FIG. 30 is a diagram of a product tie in service. This
system may be used in conjunction with the simplified interface. A
user may retrieve information including purchasing information
about an item in a media presentation such as a broadcast
television show, motion picture, music video or similar
entertainment. The entertainment media may be full screen on a
television. A user may utilize a remote control or similar input
device to activate an interface such as the simplified navigation
interface to obtain more information about a product. The
navigation interface may be used to cycle through a set of product
on screen, recently on screen or generally associated with an
entertainment media. In another embodiment, the user may utilize an
input device to select a region of the screen showing the
entertainment media to indicate the product in which the user is
interested. For example, different regions of a television show
shown in FIG. 30 may have a matrix overlaid. A user may select a
navigation option 3001 to highlight a product to display 3003
additional information. A user may return to normal viewing at any
time by an input to the console device or web appliance executing
the tie in system.
[0126] In one embodiment, tie-in system providers, entertainment
providers or product merchants provide mappings for the
entertainment media correlating products with the timing and
location of the products on screen in the media. The tie-in system
may utilize the mappings to search for the products at merchants
sites that may provide additional information or offer the product
for sale. In another embodiment, the tie-in system includes image
recognition software to capture the image of an item in a media and
attempt to correlate that item to a product in a local or remote
database.
[0127] The system may be implemented in software, for example, in a
simulator, emulator or similar software. A software implementation
may include a microcode implementation. A software implementation
may be stored on a machine readable medium. A "machine readable"
medium may include any medium that can store or transfer
information. Examples of a machine readable medium include a ROM, a
floppy diskette, a CD-ROM, an optical disk, a hard disk, a radio
frequency (RF) link, and similar media and mediums.
[0128] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been
described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. It will,
however, be evident that various modifications and changes can be
made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of
the invention as set forth in the appended claims. The
specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an
illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. Therefore, the scope
of the invention should be limited only by the appended claims.
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