U.S. patent application number 11/506907 was filed with the patent office on 2007-05-31 for information device.
Invention is credited to Yehuda Binder.
Application Number | 20070124418 11/506907 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33485412 |
Filed Date | 2007-05-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070124418 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Binder; Yehuda |
May 31, 2007 |
Information device
Abstract
A device for obtaining, storing and displaying information from
a remote server, the device has a modem for establishing
communication sessions with the remote server. A memory coupled to
the modem stores the obtained information, and a display is coupled
to the memory for displaying the stored information. The device
automatically and periodically communicates with the remote server
for obtaining the information.
Inventors: |
Binder; Yehuda; (Hod
Hasharon, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BROWDY AND NEIMARK, P.L.L.C.;624 NINTH STREET, NW
SUITE 300
WASHINGTON
DC
20001-5303
US
|
Family ID: |
33485412 |
Appl. No.: |
11/506907 |
Filed: |
August 21, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11017060 |
Dec 21, 2004 |
|
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11506907 |
Aug 21, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
709/217 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 65/60 20130101;
H04L 67/06 20130101; H04L 67/2842 20130101; H04L 67/02 20130101;
H04L 67/10 20130101; H04L 12/66 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
709/217 |
International
Class: |
G06F 15/16 20060101
G06F015/16 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 13, 2004 |
IL |
159838 |
Claims
1. A device for obtaining, storing and displaying information from
a remote server, the device comprising: a modem for establishing
communication sessions with said remote server, a memory coupled to
said modem for storing the obtained information, and a display
coupled to said memory for displaying the stored information;
wherein the device automatically and periodically communicates with
the remote server for obtaining the information.
2. The device according to claim 1 being configured for hanging on
a wall.
3. The device according to claim 1 wherein the modem is a dial-up
modem, and wherein the device further comprising a telephone
connection means coupled to said dial-up modem for connecting to
the PSTN for connecting to the remote server.
4. The device according to claim 3 further comprising an off-hook
detector coupled to said telephone connection means, and wherein
the device postpone the communication upon off-hook state
detection.
5. The device according to claim 3 further comprising means for
detecting the state of other device sharing the same telephone
connection switching to off-hook state, and wherein the device
terminate its communication upon detection of such a state.
6. The device according to claim 3 further being integrated with
another appliance comprising PSTN connection means.
7. The device according to claim 6 wherein the appliance is
selected out of telephone set, answering machine and facsimile
machine.
8. The device according to claim 3 further being powered from the
telephone connection.
9. The device according to claim 1 wherein the modem is a cellular
modem for connecting for connecting to the remote server using a
cellular network.
10. The device according to claim 9 wherein the device is
attachable to a cellular telephone set, and wherein the device
communicate using the cellular telephone set connected thereto.
11. The device according to claim 10 wherein the device further
comprises a cellular telephone set charger, operative to charge a
cellular telephone set connected thereto.
12. The device according to claim 9 further integrated within a
cellular telephone set.
13. The device according to claim 1 wherein the modem is one out of
xDSL modem and cable modem.
14. The device according to claim 1 wherein the device connects
using the Internet.
15. The device according to claim 14 wherein the remote server
information is organized as web-site, and the device communicate
with the web site URL.
16. The device according to claim 1 wherein the display is housed
within a separate device.
17. The device according to claim 16 wherein the display is
television set.
18. The device according to claim 16 wherein the information to be
displayed is multiplexed with other video channels.
19. The device according to claim 1 adapted to transmit
identification information for obtaining personalized information
from the remote server.
20. The device according to claim 1 adapted to communicate with
multiple remote servers for obtaining selected (distinct)
information for each remote server.
21. A system for obtaining information to a users sites from a
remote site, the system comprising one or more user sites and one
or more remote sites, and wherein: a user site comprises means for
communicating to the remote side, obtaining information therefrom
and displaying the information; a remote site comprises means for
storing information, communicating to the user side and
transmitting information thereto; and wherein a user site and a
remote site periodically and automatically communicates with each
other for transmitting information from the remote site to the user
site.
22. The system according to claim 21 wherein the communication uses
PSTN.
23. The system according to claim 21 wherein the communication uses
a cellular network.
24. The system according to claim 21 wherein the communication uses
the Internet.
25. The system according to claim 21 adapted to transmit
identification information for obtaining personalized information
from the remote site.
26. The system according to claim 21 adapted to allow one or more
user sites to communicate with multiple remote sites for obtaining
selected (distinct) information for each remote site.
27. For use with an information device comprising a communication
unit, information storage unit and display unit, a method for
obtaining information from a remote location, the method
comprising: communicating with the remote location; receiving
information therefrom; storing the received information; and
displaying the received information; wherein the above steps are
performed automatically and periodically.
28. The method according to claim 27 wherein the communication uses
PSTN.
29. The method according to claim 27 wherein the communication uses
a cellular network.
30. The method according to claim 27 wherein the communication uses
the Internet.
31. The method according to claim 27 adapted to transmit
identification information for obtaining personalized information
from the remote site.
32. The method according to claim 27 adapted to allow one or more
user sites to communicate with multiple remote sites for obtaining
selected information for each remote site.
33. An information repository for providing information to an
information device comprising a communication unit, an information
storage unit and a display unit, so as to allow the information
device automatically and periodically to communicate with a remote
location for receiving, storing and displaying information
therefrom.
34. A method for providing information to an information device
comprising a communication unit, an information storage unit and a
display unit, so as to allow the information device automatically
and periodically to communicate with a remote location for
receiving, storing and displaying information therefrom uses a
telephone network out of landline and cellular networks, said
method comprising: storing said information, automatically and
periodically connecting to the information device, and uploading
the information to the information device.
35. The method according to claim 34, further comprising offering a
toll-free number for communication by the information device.
36. The method according to claim 34, wherein the communication
uses a telephone network out of landline and cellular networks,
further comprising providing a distinct charged telephone number
used.
37. The method according to claim 34, wherein the communication
uses a telephone network out of landline and cellular networks, and
the information device is provided by said telephone network
operator.
38. The method according to claim 35, further comprising the step
of providing the information.
39. The method according to claim 34, wherein the information is
provided for free.
40. The method according to claim 34, wherein the information
comprises advertisements.
41. The method according to claim 34, wherein the charging for the
system operation is selected from: one time charge; flat
subscription fee; per the number of communication made; per the
cumulative communication time; per type of information received;
any combination of the above.
42. The method according to claim 34, wherein the information
device is offered as part of ISP services.
43. The method according to claim 34, wherein the information
device is offered as part of information services.
Description
[0001] This is a continuation of parent Application Ser. No.
11/017,060 filed Dec. 21, 2004.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates information devices. More
specifically, the invention relates to a method, device and system
for obtaining information from a remote location to an information
device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In modem life there is a continuous need for updated
information, such as weather forecasts, traffic reports, stock
market quotes, sports results and general news. Such information
may be obtained in various ways using many types of media and
communication means. Such communication means may include physical
delivery such as newspapers, or using networking such as landline
telephony, cellular telephony, radio and television. The Internet
is gradually being recognized as an important, reliable and rich
source of information.
[0004] In order to obtain updated information, and specifically to
obtain specific information required by a specific user, the user
is required to actively and repetitively seek for the information.
For example, in order to get the weather forecast via the
television the user is required to turn on the television set,
select a weather channel and watch until the relevant information
appears on the screen. Using the Internet to obtain a weather
forecast requires turning on a computer, connecting to the
Internet, running a web browser and selecting the relevant web
site.
[0005] It would be more convenient to obtain and display
information, and specifically information tailored towards specific
user preferences, automatically and periodically without any user
intervention. U.S. Pat. No. 6,442,573 to Schiller et al. discloses
an appliance which automatically and periodically connects to a
remote server for obtaining information. However, the appliance and
system taught by Schiller et al. is oriented towards mailing images
between users being part of a community.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a
method, device and system for periodically and automatically
obtaining information from a remote location.
[0007] An information device according to the present invention
comprises a communication unit for connecting to the remote
location, an info memory for storing the information obtained and a
display unit for displaying the stored obtained information. The
device periodically and automatically initiates a communication
session with the information-storing server in the remote location,
during which selected information is downloaded to the information
device.
[0008] The communication with the remote site may use the PSTN, to
which the information device is connected, by a dial up modem or a
cellular network, to which the device connected thereto by a
cellular modem. Other telephony connections or any other medium may
also be employed. Connection to a telephone outlet may either use
cable or be cordless. In addition to narrowband, any broadband
connection such as ADSL or cable modem may be employed. The
communication may be direct point-to-point connection (such as in
telephony) or via the Internet.
[0009] The information device may connect to a single remote site,
or alternatively may connect to multiple such sites, such as for
retrieving distinct information from each site. The communication
session may be initiated by the information device or by the remote
location.
[0010] Settings and parameters such as the telephone number to dial
or the URL to download from, the connection period interval as well
as the selection of required information may be set in production,
by the user (using on device controls) or by the remote
location.
[0011] In the case wherein the communication unit is a dial up
modem or cellular modem, various means may be employed in order to
avoid interference with other devices and services using the same
connection. The device may include means for delaying and stopping
the call initiation in the case wherein other devices (of higher
priority) requires the connection medium.
[0012] The information device may be powered from a regular AC
power, batteries or by extracting power from the telephone
connection.
[0013] The information device may be housed within a self-contained
stand-alone enclosure, or may be integrated with another appliance.
In such integration additional functionalities may be integrated
added to the shared housing. For example, the communication means
may be shared, the display, the control and the information memory
or any combination of the above. As such, the information device
may be integrated within a telephone set (either landline or
cellular), a PDA or a television set. Similarly, the information
device may share other appliances display or connection means.
[0014] A system according to the present invention comprises one or
more user sites, each employing an information device as described
below, and one or more remote sites, each comprising an information
server storing the information to download and connection means for
connecting to the information devices.
[0015] It is understood that other embodiments of the present
invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art
from the following detailed description, wherein are shown and
described only embodiments of the invention by way of illustration.
As will be realized, the invention is capable of other and
different embodiments and its several details are capable of
modification in various other respects, all without departing from
the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended
claims. Accordingly, the drawings and the detailed description are
to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as
restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The invention is herein described, by way of non-limiting
example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 shows a pictorial view of an exemplary information
device according to the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary single provider system according
to the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 4 shows a communication link in an exemplary single
provider system according to the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary multiple providers system
according to the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary flow chart to be executed by an
information device according to the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 6a shows a pictorial view of an exemplary operating
information device according to the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 7 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 8 shows part of an exemplary flow chart to be executed
by an information device according to the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 8a shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 8b shows a pictorial view of an exemplary cordless base
unit according to the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 8c shows a pictorial view of an exemplary cordless base
unit according to the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 9 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 10 shows a pictorial view of an exemplary telephone set
integrated information device according to the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 11 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device using television set as a display according to
the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 12 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 13 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 14 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 15 shows a pictorial view of an exemplary cellular
telephone set attachable information device according to the
present invention.
[0036] FIG. 15a shows a pictorial view of an exemplary PDA
attachable information device according to the present
invention.
[0037] FIG. 15b shows a pictorial view of an exemplary PDA and
cellular telephone set attachable information device according to
the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 16 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device according to the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 17 shows a functional block diagram of exemplary
information device using television set as a display according to
the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary flow chart to be executed by the
provider site according to the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 19 shows an exemplary flow chart to be executed by an
information device according to the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 20 shows a chart of exemplary business entities
involved with the information device providing and operating
according to the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] In the following description numerous specific details are
set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the
present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in
the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these
specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
[0044] The principles and operation of a device, system and method
according to the present invention may be understood with reference
to the drawings and the accompanying description. The drawings and
descriptions are conceptual only. In actual practice, a single
component can implement one or more functions; alternatively, each
function can be implemented by a plurality of components and
circuits. In the drawings and descriptions, identical reference
numerals indicate those components that are common to different
embodiments or configurations.
[0045] Information Device
[0046] A functional block diagram according to one or more
embodiments of the invention is shown in FIG. 1. The information
device 10 shown comprises a dial-up modem 15 for connecting the
information device 10 to a remote location over the PSTN (Public
Switched Telephone Network). The dial-up modem may use standard
common protocols such as ITU-T V.34, V.90 and V.92 known in the
art. The dial-up modem 15 connects to a telephone outlet 24 by
telephone plug 22 via cable 21. The information received from the
remote location is stored in the info memory 11, and displayed to
the user by display means 13. The display means 13 may be
alpha-numeric only or analog video display, and may use
technologies such as LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), FED (Field
Emission Display, or CRT (Cathode Ray Tube). The memory may be
volatile or non-volatile type, such as Flash, DRAM and RAM. In many
cases, an adaptor (not shown) is required in order to connect the
analog display to digital data device. For example, the adaptor may
convert to composite video (PAL, NTSC) or S-Video or HDTV signal.
The information device 10 is powered by the local AC power (110VAC
in North America, 220VAC in Europe) from a standard wall outlet 25,
connected thereto by a power plug 18 and power cable 19, feeding a
power supply 12 within the information device 10. The power supply
converts the AC power to the various voltages, usually DC type,
required for proper operation of the active circuits within the
device 10. In one or more embodiments, a small outlet plug-in
transformer may be used.
[0047] Operations of the information device 10 are controlled and
managed by a control unit 14, comprising a microprocessor as known
in the art. Various user controls 16 are available to allow the
user to control and effect the device 10 operations, such as on/off
switch, reset button and others. Other exemplary controls involve
display 13 settings such as contrast, brightness and zoom. Other
controls may involve selecting specific information to be shown,
changing the language displayed and so forth. Various indicators 17
are available to visually indicate to the user the status of the
device 10, such as power indication showing that the unit is
properly powered, indication when the device 10 communicates with
the remote location and so on. The control unit 14 couples to most
or all device components either for getting data and status
information, or for controlling/activating the sub-systems. The
control unit 14 may be based on CPU (Central Processing Unit) such
as a microprocessor or microcomputer, and coupling to the other
components may be serial or shared bus type.
[0048] An exemplary illustrative configuration of an information
device 10 is shown in FIG. 2. A `hanging picture` like unit is
shown, suitable for hanging on a wall using wire 23. A screen 13
serves as the display means, located in the center of the unit.
Four controls named ON/OFF 16a, UPDATE 16b, UP 16c and DOWN 16d
pushbuttons are shown as examples of controls 16. Similarly,
indicators 17 are shown as POWER indicator 17a and STATUS
indicators 17b, illustrated as a small round shaped illuminating
units, such as common LEDs. A physical cables and connectors are
also shown, such as plug 18 and cable 19 connecting the device 10
to a power outlet and plug 22 and cable 21 connecting to telephone
outlet.
[0049] Information Network.
[0050] The information device 10 connects to an information
provider in a remote location for downloading information and
displaying it. An exemplary network 30 illustrating user and
provider equipments is shown in FIG. 3. Single provider location
comprising an information server 32a is described, serving multiple
information devices 10a, 10b and 10c, wherein each may be located
in a different premises and thus serving different users.
Information server 32 is any apparatus (e.g. computer) storing
information and connectable to an information device 10 for
transmitting the information thereto. Each such information device,
such as device 10a, connects to the PSTN 31 (via its dial up modem
15, cable 21 and telephone connector 22 shown in FIG. 1).
Similarly, the information server 32a in the information provider
location connects to the PSTN 31 via dial up modem 15a. In the case
wherein the information server 32a contains all the required
information to send to the information devices 10, no other
connections are required. However, in most cases the information
may not be available, thus requiring the information server 32a to
connect to other providers to get additional information. Network
30 suggests that information server 32a connects to other servers
32b, 32c and 32d via the Internet network 33 in order to receive
the required information. For example, server 32b may provide
weather related information, server 32c may contain news and server
32d may contain sport results information. In this case, each such
server may support an Internet web page providing the dedicated
information, gathered by the providers' information server 32a. It
should be understood that any other type of communication may be
employed in order to allow the information provider to get the
required information into the information server 32a, wherein it
can be retrieved by any information device 10 connected thereto via
the PSTN network 31.
[0051] As shown in system 40 in FIG. 4, in order to obtain
information from server 32a, information device 10b (for example)
communicates via the PSTN network 31 with the dial up modem 15a,
thus creating a communication link 41, enabling data transfer
between the information device 10b and server 32a.
[0052] An alternative exemplary embodiment of a network 50 is shown
in FIG. 5. In such configuration, the information device 10
directly connects to multiple providers (or a single provider
operating multiple locations/servers). Dedicated information
servers 32b, 32c and 32d are connected to the PSTN 31 via
respectively dial up modems 15b, 15c and 15d. In such a case,
information device 10a connects one at a time to each server 32 to
receive dedicated information.
[0053] While the invention has been described above with respect to
direct telephone connection between the user and the provider, it
will be appreciated that any other type of connection can be used,
allowing data communication session between the information device
10 and the provider server 32. In the particular case where the
connection uses the Internet, the user connects (through the PSTN,
ISDN or any other means) to an ISP (Internet service Provider) for
connection to the Internet. Similarly, the server 32 also connects
the Internet, thus allowing a communication session between the
information device 10 and the information server 10 using the
Internet.
[0054] Operational Sequence.
[0055] The operations carried out by an information device 10 are
shown in FIG. 6 as flow-chart 60. In most cases, the control unit
14 executes these operations. The general principle of operation
involves periodically contacting the information provider server,
downloading information therefrom, and displaying the received
information. Upon powering up or following device rest, the device
starts at step 61. A pre-determined connection-time is established.
In step 62, the device waits for the connection time to expire
before commencing communication. The connection timing may be
defined and executed in various forms:
[0056] a. A fixed time-of-day (TOD). In this configuration, the
device is set to communicate at a specific time of the day,
preferably during the night wherein the telephone traffic is low.
For example, a device 10 can be set to communicate on daily basis
at 2.00 AM. In such a case, every day at 2.00 AM the device will
commence communication (moving to step 63 in the flow chart 60). It
will be obvious that the device can be set to communicate a
plurality of times during a 24-hour day, or alternatively, to
commence communication less frequently than daily, such as once a
week, once a month and so forth. In such configuration, the control
unit 14 within device 10 should comprise a real-time clock keeping
track of the time, and store (preferably in non-volatile memory)
the parameter of the time of day wherein the communication should
be initiated.
[0057] b. Time interval. In this configuration, the next
communication is commenced as a fixed time interval after the last
communication session. For example, an interval period of 6 hours
may be selected, wherein every 6 hours the device commences a
communication session. The control unit 14 includes a timer being
reset after each communication session, and counting towards the
next session until the stored period value has elapsed.
[0058] One or both the above timing mechanisms may be supported.
Selection of the timing mechanism, as well as the values associated
(time of day or period value), may each be selected by: [0059] a.
Production set. In this configuration, the timing mechanism is set
during production and cannot be modified later. [0060] b. User set.
In this scenario the user may select the timing method (if such
selection is available and is not production set) as well as the
timing value. Such programming may use the device controls 16 or a
dedicated setting interface (not shown). [0061] c. Provider set. In
this case the provider may, during communication session, access
and modify the device timing mechanism.
[0062] In the, case wherein multiple information servers are
discussed as shown in network 50, a different timing mechanism may
be associated with each such server.
[0063] Upon a decision by the timing mechanism to commence a
communication session, the device 10 shifts to step 63, in which
the device dials the telephone number of the provider. Such a
number may be a toll-free number (1-800 in the U.S.). Upon an
off-hook response from the called dial-up modem (such as 15a in
network 30), physical layer communication is completed, and both
the calling device 10 and the called server 32 start a
communication session as part of step 64, during which the
authorization for information access is checked, for example. Upon
decision of the server 32 to provide information, the information
flows from the server 32 through the PSTN to the calling device 10,
as part of step 65, using agreed upon or standard protocol. For
example, the popular TCP/IP protocol may be used. In another one or
more embodiments, the World Wide Web (WWW) system using the
Internet protocol (commonly known as TCP/IP) is used, wherein the
provider uses a web server having a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
and the information device 10 client software is based on a common
web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer, used to transmit
and access the URL of the web site stored by the information
server. The information received is stored in the info memory 11 of
the device 10. After completing the information downloading, device
10 and the called server 32 end the session, as shown in step 67.
At this point, the calling device 10 or the respective called
server 32 dial up modem 15 disconnects the call as shown in step
68, thus ending the communication session. The calling device 10
then displays the new information received (step 69), and shifts to
step 62, waiting again until the time for the next session
elapse.
[0064] It will be understood that the operation sequence described
above results in a periodic automatic device operation to obtain
and display information, without the need for any manual
intervention. Furthermore, the information device 10 may be
operated in an `always on` mode, wherein it is continuously powered
and operative, obviating the need for turning it on and off.
[0065] For example, the information device may be used to get local
weather forecast. The device 10 contacts a weather server 32 daily
in 5.00 AM while the user is asleep. Upon getting up in 6.00 AM,
the device 10 displays the most updated weather forecast for the
day, as shown for example in FIG. 6a, enabling the user to plan his
activities accordingly.
[0066] While the invention has been so far described with respect
to automatic information obtaining without any user intervention,
alternative embodiments of the invention involve initiating a
communication session upon a user request. For example, a button
`UPDATE` shown as control 16b in FIG. 2 may be used for such a
function. Upon user pushing this button, the information device 10
will immediately initiate a communication session by executing step
63 in the flow chart 60, rather than waiting for the next scheduled
communication session. In one or more embodiments, the information
device 10 initiates a communication session only upon user request.
Yet in another one or more embodiment, both mechanisms are
supported. In the latter case, a session is initiated by either a
scheduled operation or by a user request.
[0067] Information Types and Selection.
[0068] `Public information` is any information that is available to
the general public. Public information may be available for free
(`free public information`), such as information available in most
of the Internet WWW web sites. Major newspapers, radio stations and
television stations, as well as other information providers
frequently operate a web site wherein updated information may be
accessed. Printed newspapers and other some web sites in the
Internet require payment in exchange for providing access to the
information (`paid public information`). Public information
includes any information which may accessed, either for free or for
a fee.
[0069] `Non-public information` is information which is not
included in the above definition of public information. For
example, information which is owned by a person who is not willing
to share this information with the public, but rather to a small
pre-selected group (e.g. family, friend) or with no one. The term
`information` as used herein includes both public information (both
free and paid) as well as non-public information.
[0070] Updated information with respect to the present invention
refers to information which was not available in the last
communication session, but was created since.
[0071] Non-limiting examples of public and updated information
types may include any information found in periodicals such as
newspapers, such as: [0072] Weather forecast. [0073] Sport event
results. [0074] Stock market quotes. [0075] News. [0076] Traffic
information. [0077] Lottery results. [0078] Personal ads. [0079]
Exchange rates. [0080] Travel information. [0081] Future events
(sport, culture, entertainment) [0082] TV/radio guide.
[0083] The term information herein includes both public information
(both free and paid) as well as non-public information. In one or
more embodiment, the information includes updated information.
[0084] The information device 10 comprises inherently limited info
memory 11, and a display 13 of limited visual area, and in order to
reduce communication session length, the size of the information
content to be downloaded in a single communication session is
limited. Hence, in most cases there is a need to clearly define the
required information to be obtained from the server 32. Such
selection can make use of:
[0085] a. No selection. In this case the user cannot select the
required information, and the content is fixed and determined by
the server 32 settings.
[0086] b. User set. In this scenario the user may select the
information to obtain. Such programming may use the device controls
16 or a dedicated setting interface (not shown).
[0087] c. Information provider set. In this case the information
provider transmits the selected information based on the
identification of the specific information device 10.
[0088] Dial-up Connection.
[0089] In many cases, an external telephone connection is shared
between few telephone devices such as telephone sets, facsimile and
answering machines and others. In the case wherein the telephone
connection is in use, for example by a person having a telephone
conversation using a telephone device connected thereto, the
information device 10 will interfere with the telephone connection
usage upon its trying to connect. In order to obviate such
scenario, an off-hook detector 71 is added to the information
device 70 shown in FIG. 7. The off-hook detector 71 connects to the
external telephone connection (using cable 21 and connector 22) and
couples to the control unit 14. Basically, the off-hook detector 71
measures the voltage over the telephone lines. While nominally the
voltage is about 40-60 VDC, in the case of any connected device
switching to off-hook state, the voltage drops under 15 VDC. As
such, the information device 70 first measures the voltage over the
telephone lines by the off-hook detector 71, and if low voltage is
detected, meaning off-hook condition of a connected device, the
dial-up modem 15 operation is postponed by a pre-determined time.
Most existing dial-up modems integrate the off-hook detector
functionality described above.
[0090] The operational sequence 60 described above applies also to
the information device 70, wherein steps 81 and 82 are added
between steps 62 and 63, as described in the partial flow chart 80
in FIG. 8. In step 81, the device 70 checks the telephone
connection status using the off-hook detector 71. In the case
wherein on-hook status is detected, the device continues to
initiate the communication session. Detection of off-hook state
will cause the device to shift to step 82, wherein the
communication initiation is delayed by a fixed period. The time
delay may be set in the production phase, by the user or by the
provider as described above.
[0091] In most cases, the operation of the information device 10 is
considered to be of low priority versus other uses of a telephone
connection. As such, in the case wherein other devices connected to
the telephone line switch to off-hook, as is the case wherein a
user picks up a telephone headset, the information device should
halt its operation to allow the other device to use the telephone
connection.
[0092] In one or more embodiments, the device 10 stores multiple
telephone numbers for connecting to a provider. In the case wherein
a telephone connection cannot be obtained after a few attempts
(such as due to a busy line or malfunctioning connection), the
device 10 dials alternate telephone numbers according to a
predefined priority.
[0093] Cordless Connection.
[0094] As explained and shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 above, the
information device 10 requires two cables for proper connection,
one for telephony and the other for power. Such cabling may be not
aesthetic and also complicates the installation and operation of
the device. Telephone cable may be eliminated by using non-wired
telephone connection such as cellular telephony, as will be
described below. In one or more embodiments, a cordless telephone
scheme is used.
[0095] Cordless telephones are long known as means to eliminate the
telephone cord. A cordless telephone is basically a combination of
a telephone and radio transmitter/receiver, and has two major
parts: a base unit and a handset. The base is connected to the
phone jack and to a power jack, and converts the telephone signals
to radio frequency signals. The handset converts the radio
frequency signals to audio signals. The radio frequency used may be
27, 43-50, 900, 2400 or 5800 MHz, and the communication may use
Digital Spread Spectrum (DSS) scheme.
[0096] In one or more embodiments, an ordinary cordless base unit
is used. Part of the handset functionality is integrated into the
information device 10. In such a configuration, the dial up modem
15 communicates cordlessly with the base unit, eliminating the need
for a connecting cable. Such information device 85 is shown in FIG.
8a. The dial-up modem 15 is coupled to a radio transceiver 86,
cordlessly communicating with the base unit (not shown) via antenna
87. In addition to the full duplex audio/telephony carried between
the device 85 and the base unit, various control signals such as
on-hook, off-hook, ring, dial-tone, busy tones and other telephony
related signals are communicated as known in the art. In such a
way, the same functionality of corded coupling is obtained, yet
without using any cable.
[0097] Cordless telephone set base units commonly employ, in
addition to the radio transceiver and the telephony associated
functionalities, a charger which is used to charge a rechargeable
battery within the handset. Since in most cases there may not be a
direct contact between the base unit and the information device 85,
such charger is not required. As such, a dedicated base unit may be
used, pictorially shown in FIG. 8b. The base unit 88 is shaped as a
power outlet plug-in unit, plugged into a power outlet 25 using the
power prongs 18. The base unit 88 connects to the telephone outlet
24 via a cable and telephone connector 22, and communicates
wirelessly with the information device 85 via antenna 88.
Similarly, the base unit may be shaped as telephone plug-in unit 84
as shown in FIG. 8c.
[0098] While the above cordless related apparatus and method have
been so far described with respect to information device 10, it
will be appreciated that such cordless apparatuses and methods are
applicable to other types of devices, including any devices which
automatically or periodically communicate with a remote
location.
[0099] Powering.
[0100] While the invention has been described wherein the
information device is being AC powered, in one or more embodiments
the information device 10 is powered by batteries.
[0101] Other embodiments may involve extracting power from the
telephone line. In most cases, only limited power may be extracted
from a telephone line in an on-hook state, since the current flow
is also used an off-hook indication. Such limitation is imposed by
the FCC in the USA. However, in the case of a very low power
consumption implementation of the information device 10, the
allowed power may suffice for its operation. Much higher power
consumption from a telephone connection may be obtained during
off-hook state. Hence, the device 10 may extract power during its
communication session or when other devices connected to the same
telephone line switch into off-hook state, as detected by the
off-hook detector 71 or any other means.
[0102] It should be understood that any combination of the above
powering schemes may be used. In one or more embodiments, a
combination of off-hook power extraction and rechargeable batteries
is used, as shown as device 90 in FIG. 9. The information device 90
connects solely to the telephone connection via telephone connector
22, obviating the need for AC power connection 18. During off-hook
state, a charger 93 (connected to the telephone connection) is
operated to extract power from the telephone line and charge
rechargeable battery 91. The battery 91 in turn feeds a power
supply 92 which in turn feeds all power consuming components of the
device 90. Whenever off-hook state is detected by detector 71,
either initiated by the device 90 itself or by any other device
connected to the same telephone connection, and as long as the
battery 91 is not fully charged, power is consumed to charge the
battery 91.
[0103] In order not to allow the battery stored energy to be
reduced below the level enabling proper operation of the device 90,
a battery energy monitor 94 may be used. The monitor 94 detects low
energy level in the battery 91, and signals the control unit 14
accordingly. Upon detection that the stored power is lower than a
predefined threshold, the device initiates an off-hook state in
order to consume power to charge the battery. Upon the predefined
energy level being restored, the device disconnects itself and
resumes on-hook state. These `dial for power` powering cycles
preferably coincides with the communication sessions described
above. However, some embodiments may require more powering cycles
than information ones, or vice versa.
[0104] It should be understood that such the above powering
mechanisms may be used in any appliance having a telephone
connection, and are not limited to the information device 90
described above. Furthermore, any combination of the above powering
schemes may be used.
[0105] While the above powering related apparatus and method have
been so far described with respect to information device 10, it
will be appreciated that such powering apparatuses and methods are
applicable to other types of devices, including any devices which
automatically or periodically communicate with a remote
location.
[0106] Appliance Integration.
[0107] While the information device 10 has been described above as
a stand-alone self-contained dedicated appliance, it will readily
be understood that the device may be integrated with various other
appliances. In one exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the
device is integrated into the housing of a telephone device 100.
Display 13 of the device 10 is shown. Similarly, the information
device 10 may be integrated into any appliance, and preferably into
devices which also require telephone connection such as fax,
answering machine and personal computer with dial-up modem, as well
as ADSL modem and Residential Gateway known in the art.
[0108] Several levels of integration with appliances may be
implemented: [0109] a. Mechanical integration. This type of basic
level of integration involves the housing of the device 10 and the
appliance in a single physical packaging, and sharing the same
telephone connection (if also required by the appliance). No
additional components or functionality are involved. [0110] b. HMI
(Human Machine Interface) sharing. In these embodiments various HMI
components are shared and are used by both the device 10 and the
other appliance. For example, the device 100 shown in FIG. 10 may
share the screen 13 for displaying both device-related information
and telephone-related information (such as Caller-ID telephone
number). Similarly, telephone numbers buttons may be doubly used as
controls 16, and dual-function visual indicators may also be used.
[0111] c. Information sharing. This configuration involves
interface between the device 10 and the appliance allowing for
sharing at least part of the available information. For example,
the device 10 housed within the device 100 may download telephone
numbers, which are programmed into speed dialing within the
telephone set. [0112] d. Full integration. In these embodiments
various components are used for both functions. For example, a
processing unit within an appliance may also implement the control
unit 14 functionalities. In such a case, all or part of the above
integration levels are also implemented.
[0113] Display Appliance Integration.
[0114] In other embodiments, the device 10 uses other appliances
display, preferably existing ones. Such configuration can reduce
the cost, complexity and space requirements of a device 10. Common
existing displays within premises include a personal computer
screen and television sets. An exemplary embodiment of the latter
case is described in FIG. 11. The information device 110 shown in
the figure does not comprise any display means 13, but rather only
employ a video adapter 111, connectable to any external video
monitor. Such device 110 may be used with a dedicated external
video monitor. Another embodiment using existing television set is
shown as system 119 in FIG. 11. The video output of device 110 is
connected to an RF modulator 112 producing a video signal carried
over a television channel. The signal is multiplexed with the
existing TV signal by a splitter/combiner 114, whereby the
multiplexed signal is fed to the television set 115. The
information received by the information device 110 may then be
shown on one of the television channels. System 119 may be fed from
any TV signal source 116, which may be a set top box connected to a
CATV or satellite network, or local video source such as VCR and
DVD players.
[0115] Information Personalization.
[0116] The information downloaded by an information device 10 can
be general and identical to all information devices 10 connected to
a provider. Alternatively, the information can be `personalized`:
different information being tailored for the requirements of each
user. For example, a user may be interested in the weather forecast
in his local neighborhood, rather than nation-wide general weather
forecast.
[0117] In order to support the providing of personalized
information, the information server 32 needs to identify the
calling device 10 and to accordingly provide the relevant
information. An information device 10 may be individually
identified or as part of a group, all group members requiring the
same information type. Identification of a calling information
device 10 (either as individual or as a group member) may be
communication related, such as: [0118] a. Using Caller-ID: The user
is identified by her calling telephone number using Caller-ID
feature. For example, by identifying the caller telephone number,
the provider can associate a relevant geographical location (e.g.
zip code info), and provide weather forecast specifically for that
location. [0119] b. Time of dialing in: Each group (or individual)
is assigned a specific time for dialing in. Hence, by noting the
calling time the provider can associate and identify the caller or
its group. For example, all users calling between 2.00 AM and 2.10
AM are all located in a specific geographical region, hence the
relevant weather forecast for that location will be provided.
[0120] c. Telephone number dialed: The provider uses a plurality of
telephone numbers, wherein the information is dependent upon the
telephone number called. For example, telephone number XXX-XXX-XX01
will relate to a specific region or county, and number XXX-XXX-XX02
to another defined geographical region.
[0121] In communication related identification, all the information
devices 10 are identical to each other, thus easy to manufacture
and handle.
[0122] In alternative embodiments, the information 10 device
transmits its identification as part of the communication session,
during the start session step 64. The identification may consist
of: [0123] a. A unique identification code (`address`), associated
with a single information device 10. Such mechanism may be based on
the popular and standard IP/Ethemet MAC/IP address structure, or
may be of a proprietary nature. Similarly, a user name, password
and other personalization techniques known in the art may be used.
[0124] b. A code identifying the type of information requested. In
this configuration, the information device 10 transmits a code that
identifies the required info rather than the individual user. For
example, a device 10 may request the info about the weather in a
specific location, and the results of a specific sport event.
[0125] In both cases, each information device 10 may be different
from other ones, having a specific identification value (or
values). Furthermore, multiple communication sessions and the
information types obtained may be different for the same device 10
during different sessions based on parameters or values. Such
values (or parameters) may be assigned to the device by any of the
following: [0126] a. Production set. In this configuration, the
identification value is set during production and cannot be
modified later. [0127] b. User set. In this scenario the user may
change the identification value. Such programming may use the
device controls 16 or a dedicated setting interface (not shown).
[0128] c. Provider set. In this case the provider may, during
communication session, access and modify the identification
value.
[0129] The above identification mechanism may also serve for
authorization and billing purposes. After the above values or
parameters are set, all following communication sessions will use
the set parameters/values.
[0130] Community Application.
[0131] While personalization has been described above relating to a
single user/information device, the same may be applied to a group
of users/information devices. Such community may all be
personalized for a specific type of information, either exclusively
or in addition to another information (which may also be
individually personalized or not). For example, all students in a
school may subscribe to school-related information such as
no-school announcements. Similarly, a municipality may broadcast
emergency information to all its residents. In addition to
geographically grouping, interest-based groups may be formed,
allowing all group members to obtain the same information
simultaneously.
[0132] While the personalization related apparatus and method has
been so far described with respect to information device 10, it
will be appreciated that such apparatuses and methods are
applicable to other types of devices, including any devices which
automatically or periodically communicate with a remote
location.
[0133] Cellular Connection.
[0134] While the invention has been so far described with respect
to wired telephone connection, it should be understood that the
invention can be equally applied to any other telephone connection,
including non-wired based telephone service such as cellular
telephony.
[0135] Information device 120 modified to use a cellular telephone
service rather than wired telephony is shown in FIG. 12. The dial
up modem 15 (together with the wired connection cable 21 and
connector 22) are eliminated and substituted with a cellular modem
121, connected to a cellular antenna 122. In such a configuration,
the information device 120 uses the cellular medium to
communication with the information provider.
[0136] FIG. 13 shows another embodiment where, instead of a
dedicated cellular modem 121 and antenna 122, a cellular telephone
set 132 is used as the communication means. While the mechanical
and electrical connections to the telephone set 132 may be fixed,
this limits the usage of the telephone set 132 as a mobile device.
In a one preferred embodiment, the cellular telephone set 132 is
detachable from the device 130. Cellular adaptor 131 is used to
electrically mediate between the device 130 and the cellular
telephone 132. This mediation can make use of known implementations
commonly used for telephone cradles and `hands-free` systems.
[0137] In the case wherein a cellular telephone set 132 is used as
the communication means, and assuming this is the sole
communication means, the information device 130 may be required to
operate only upon attaching the cellular telephone set 132 thereto.
Since cellular telephone sets 132 commonly require periodic
charging time, the device 130 may be modified to comprise such a
charger. In such configuration, attaching a cellular telephone set
132 to an information device supports two functions: charging and
communication. Such a device 140 is shown in FIG. 14. The power
supply 13 feeds a charger 141, connected to the cellular telephone
132 via the adaptor 131. An exemplary pictorial view is shown in
FIG. 15. Mechanical adaptor 152 is shown, enabling attaching and
detaching the cellular telephone set 132 to the information device
140. Upon attaching the telephone set 132, the telephone is charged
and may be also used by the device 140 for communication
purposes.
[0138] In one or more embodiments, the information device 120 is
partially or fully integrated with the cellular telephone set 132.
All the functions of the device 120 are available in a cellular
telephone set 132. The number keys and other function buttons can
also serve as controls 16, and existing visual indicators may
doubly function as indicators 17. Since commonly cellular telephone
set 132 comprises at least small alphanumeric screen for displaying
the dialed number, this screen can doubly function as display means
13. Similarly, the microcontroller controlling the telephone set
132 functions can double to perform the control unit 14. As such,
adding the information device 120 functionality to an existing
design of a telephone set 132 may only require software update in
order to execute at least part of flow chart 60.
[0139] While the invention has been described above with respect to
cellular telephone set, it will be appreciated that PDA (Personal
Digital Assistant) may be equally used. Such a device 150 is shown
in FIG. 15a, involving PDA 151. In one or more embodiments, the PDA
charger is included in the device 150. In one or more embodiments,
the PDA 151 is used as communication means, utilizing its built-in
communication means (e.g. cellular modem, wireless modem or wired
network connection). In one or more embodiments, the PDA 151
doubles to implement part or all of the information device 10
functionalities. Similarly, other devices may be employed with the
information device 10. Furthermore, multiple devices may be
employed either independently or in combination, as shown in FIG.
15b describing an information device 155 and both a PDA 151 and
cellular telephone set 132.
[0140] Broadband Connection: ADSL.
[0141] While the invention has been so far described with respect
to cases wherein the connection to the information provider uses
dial-up or cellular telephony, it will be appreciated that any
connection may be used, either narrow- or broadband, and being
either wired-based or wireless. One common telephone-line based
broadband connection uses xDSL (Digital Subscriber Line)
technology. ADSL (Asymmetric DSL) is popular for residential and
office connections. Other versions include VDSL (Very high speed
DSL), RADSL (Rate Adaptive DSL), HDSL (High speed DSL) and others.
While ADSL will be discussed hereinafter, any other xDSL may as
well be used.
[0142] An information device 160 comprising an ADSL modem 161 is
shown in FIG. 16. The ADSL modem 161 substitutes the dial-up modem
15 described above, still connecting via a telephone connection. In
one or more embodiments, the information device 160 periodically
initiates physical layer ADSL connection, and disconnect the
connection upon session completion. Such implementation requires a
`start up` period for modem training in the beginning of each such
session. However, multiple ADSL modems may connect to a single
telephone connection one at a time. Alternative embodiments use the
`always on` feature of the ADSL connection, wherein the physical
layer ADSL connection is always on, but higher layers remain
inoperative until being `logged on` by the connected device. In
this case, there is no need for any `start up` period, but no other
ADSL modem can concurrently use the telephone connection.
[0143] Similar to the above description, the information device can
be integrated with any other device having ADSL modem such as
stand-alone dedicated ADSL modem, Residential Gateway and so
forth.
[0144] Broadband Connection: CATV.
[0145] Another popular broadband connection is based on the CATV
(Cable Television) cabling, dedicating part of the carried spectrum
to data networking in addition to the video channels. Most
available systems are based on CableLabs.TM. DOCSIS standards.
Information device 170 comprising a cable modem 171 is shown in
FIG. 17. The device 170 shown comprises video adapter 111 for
connecting to an external video display. However, built in display
means 13 may alternatively be used. The cable modem 171 typically
connects to a CATV outlet for connecting to the CATV in-building
wiring, connected in turn to external CATV signal source 172, for
coupling to the data channel carried over the CATV wiring.
[0146] FIG. 17 further illustrates a system 179, wherein the
television set is used for both displaying the video channels
carried as part of the CATV network, and as a display means of the
information received by the information device 170. The
splitter/combiner 114 combines the video signal from the
information device 170 modulated by the RF modulator 112 with the
CATV video channels enabling displaying of all channels in the
television set 115 (it is assumed that the television set is `Cable
Ready` and there is no need for converter or set top box). The
various components shown, such as the information device 170, the
RF modulator 112 and the splitter/combiner 114 may be in full or in
part integrated into television set, to a set top box or to a stand
alone cable modem.
[0147] While the invention has been so far described with respect
to modem embedded within the information device 10 which connects
directly to the remote server 32, it will be appreciated that such
external connection (either narrow or broad-band, Local- or Wide
area network) may be shared with other networked appliances over a
home network. As known in the art, in such a configuration a single
device, commonly known as Residential Gateway connects to the
external connection, whereby multiple in-home appliances share this
external pipe by means of an in-home network. Home networks may use
dedicated wiring commonly known as `structured wiring` and
employing Ethernet IEEE802.3 protocols. Other implementations
involve wireless RF based network such as standardized in
IEEE802.11x or BlueTooth. Other alternatives involve using existing
wiring structure such as telephone wiring (e.g. HomePNA
technology), powerlines (e.g. HomePlug) and CATV wiring. Adapting
the information device 10 to support a home network basically
requires substituting the dial-up modem 15 with a modem appropriate
for the home network media, such as Ethernet transceiver for wired
Ethernet network, IEEEE802.11x wireless transceiver or HomePlug
compliant transceiver.
[0148] Provider Push.
[0149] While the invention has been so far described with respect
to `user pull`, wherein the periodic communication session is
initiated by the information device 10, it will be appreciated that
the communication sessions can be equally initiated by the
information provider (`provider push`). In such a case, the
communication can be charged to the provider (being the call
initiator) and not to the user. In one or more embodiments, the
provider server 32a (together with the provider site dial-up modem
15a) executes the flow chart 180 shown in FIG. 18. After starting
(e.g. power up or reset) step 181 the server 32a executes step 182
which results in waiting until expiry of the time to the next
session schedule as explained above. Then the server initiates a
call as part of the step 183, and starts the session in step 184.
During the communication session the pre-defined information is
transmitted (step 185) to the user information device 10. After the
required information has been submitted, the server 32a disconnects
and the communication session is terminated. This operational
sequence is periodically repeated as explained above.
[0150] In the case of `provider push` the operational sequence
executed by the information device 10 is similar to the `user pull`
sequence described above in flow chart 60 (shown in FIG. 6). The
modified flow chart 190 is shown in FIG. 19. Rather than initiating
a call, the device 10 waits until being called by the provider as
shown in step 192. Session start 192, and receive information 195
respectively correlates with the provider states 184 start session
184 and send information 185. The received information is stored
(step 196). Thereafter the communication session is ended 197 and
the communication disconnected 198, as a response to provider
disconnect call step 186. Then the information is displayed 199,
and the device 10 rests until the next session initiation.
[0151] In the case wherein `always on` broadband connection type is
employed such as ADSL or cable modem, the provider can initiate the
communication session by accessing the device 10 identification
value, as discussed above. In the case wherein the Internet is
used, the IP (Internet Protocol) address of the device 10 may be
used to target the information to a specific device 10.
[0152] In the case wherein telephone connection (such as landline
or cellular telephony) is used for linking the provider server 32a
to a user information device 10, an inherent unique telephone
number is assigned to each such connection: a telephone number for
a cellular telephone set and a telephone number for each landline
telephone connection. In such a case, the provider server 32a dials
the telephone number assigned to the information device 10, using
dial up modem 15a, in order to establish the communication
link.
[0153] In the case the telephone connection is solely used by the
information device 10, no other entities may respond to the
provider dialing in signal. Such configuration may be expensive
since the telephone connection costs are not shared. However, in
the case wherein multiple appliances share the same connection,
such as in a residence wherein multiple telephone sets (or
answering or facsimile machines) are connected in parallel to the
same telephone lines, calling in will possibly interfere with the
normal operation. Furthermore, calling in will produce a disturbing
telephone ringing. In a similar way, regular cellular telephony
service may be disturbed.
[0154] In one or more embodiments, the information device 10 is
caller-ID capable and can identify the calling provider telephone
number (or numbers). The device 10 responds immediately to an
incoming call only if the information provider call is identified,
and is silent in all other calls. Hence, minimum intervention with
the regular telephony (either landline or cellular) is
obtained.
[0155] While the invention has been so far described with respect
to exclusive `user pull` or `provider push`, wherein in the former
the user device 10 initiates the call and in the latter the
provider server 32a initiates the call, it will be appreciated that
any combination of both may also be considered. In one or more such
embodiments, the user device 10 initiates the call and starts
communication session. During the session, the server 32a
identifies the device 10 calling number either automatically by
Caller-ID or by the information sent to the server 32a. As a
response, the server 32a initiates a call to this number (either
immediately or after a pre-defined delay) and starts a session as
described above. One advantage of such mechanism is that the longer
session is billed to the provider (being the caller) and not to the
user.
[0156] While the `provider-push` apparatus and method has been so
far described with respect to information device 10, it will be
appreciated that such apparatuses and methods are applicable to
other types of devices, including any devices which automatically
or periodically communicate with a remote location.
[0157] Business Method.
[0158] The entities involved in the business aspects of the
information device according to the invention are described in
diagram 200 in FIG. 20. The vendor 203 provides the information
device 10, and may be the actual manufacturer (either directly or
via subcontracting) of the device. The user 201 may purchase the
information device 10 through any distribution channels 202, such
as wholesale or retail stores. However, the user may or may not be
the owner of the device 10. However, the terms `user` and `owner`
are used interchangeably hereinafter. Any distribution channel
dealing with electronic or electrical appliances, in particular
those channels involving distribution of communication equipment,
may include the information device 10 as part of their product
portfolio. Generally, any business model or method used to in
distributing appliances may be used for the information device
10.
[0159] In the cases described below wherein the information device
10 is not self-contained dedicated device but rather is integrated
with other appliances such as telephone set 100, cellular telephone
set 132 or PDA, the same business channels and methods used for
distributing the attached appliance may be used for the added
information device 10 functionality, either for free (as improved
appliance) or for increased price.
[0160] In order to allow for the communication session to take
place, the information device 10 connects to the `external` world
by connection through a communication service provider 204. In the
case of connecting using dial-up (or ISDN) modem as well as ADSL
modem, the communication service provider is the local telephone
company (`telco`) owning the connecting telephone wiring. In the
case of cellular modem, the cellular telephone company is the
communication service provider 204. Similarly, the CATV provider is
the communication service provider in the case of DOCSIS based
cable modem. The information server 32, owned by the information
provider 206, may be directly connected to (e.g. through the PSTN),
such as described in configurations 30 and 50 above. In other
embodiments, the Internet is used for communication between the
information device 10 and the information server 32. In such a
case, Information Service Provider (ISP) 206 is involved for
connecting the user to the Internet.
[0161] In addition to the equipment cost, the costs associated with
the operation of the information device are as follows: [0162] a.
Communication service. The costs associated with the communication
sessions. [0163] b. ISP, in the case of using the Internet. [0164]
c. Information service. The costs associated with operating the
information provider's site, including obtaining the information,
storing it and allowing for communication with the information
devices 10. In general, these costs are to be covered by the user
201, as described below.
[0165] Communication Service Costs.
[0166] a. In one or more business methods, the information device
10 uses no user associated cost communication, such as toll-free
(1-800 numbers in the U.S.). In such a case, the communication cost
is usually paid for by the vendor 203.
[0167] b. In one or more business methods, wherein the information
device 10 uses direct communication method such as PSTN wherein the
information device 10 dials an associated specific information
provider 206 number, the information provides 206 may use a service
paid number, such as area code 900 in the U.S.
[0168] c. In one or more business methods, the user 201 pays to the
communication service provider 204 for the communication services.
For example, in the case wherein the information device 10 uses
telephony communication method such as PSTN or cellular telephony,
communication charge are imposed by the provider 204. Since
periodical calls are initiated, a constant and continuous charge is
incurred.
[0169] Such Added Revenue Per User (ARPU) is mostly beneficial to
most communication service provider, since the additional revenues
do not require any additional infrastructure investment. As such, a
business method wherein the communication service provider (e.g.
Telco) 204 provides the information device 10 for nominal cost or
even lower than nominal (e.g. free) is viable, wherein the ARPU
covers the initial cost after a time.
[0170] Furthermore, since in some embodiments the dialing time may
be set to be in low telephone traffic periods (e.g. nights,
weekends), the additional traffic due to information device 10
initiated traffic do not degrade the regular service and does not
require any upgrade or additional investment in the existing
infrastructure.
[0171] In general, billing the user 201 for communication services
by the provider 204 may be: [0172] a. One time fee. [0173] b. Flat
fee for a period (e.g. monthly). [0174] c. Per communication
session. [0175] d. Per lengths of communication sessions. [0176] e.
Any combination of the above.
[0177] Furthermore, the provider 204 may use a contract to provide
the user 201 with the information device 10, in order to `lock` for
a predetermined period (wherein changing provider will result in a
fee). Such a model is commonly employed by many communication
service providers in order to reduce churn (e.g. cellular telephone
service providers with respect to cellular telephone set).
[0178] The business methods associated with selling via
distribution channels 202 (e.g. retail store) commonly involve
changing ownership of the information device 10, wherein after
completion of the buying transaction the device 10 is fully owned
by the user 201. However, common to other communication service
associated devices, one or more business methods involved the
ownership of an information device 10 may comprise owning by the
communication service provider. Such a model is commonly used
regarding Set Top Boxes provided by CATV providers. In some of
these methods, the user is requested to pay a periodic (e.g.
monthly) fee for renting the device.
[0179] In one or more business methods, the information device 10
may comprise a unique addressing means, allowing it to communicate
only through a specific service provider. This is similar to
cellular telephone sets which may work only in conjunction with a
specific cellular telephony provider.
[0180] ISP Service Costs.
[0181] ISP 205 is required wherein the communication uses the
Internet. However, the term ISP should be interpreted to include
any network (additional to the communication network described
above) required to be used in order to access the server 32. All
business methods described above with respect to communication
service provider 204 may equally be employed with respect to ISPs.
The costs associated with the ISP 205 may also be covered by the
vendor 203. Most ISPs charge a flat fee for their services.
[0182] Information Service Costs.
[0183] a. Free information service. In this case, there is no cost
to the user 201 due to the information obtained. Most existing
Internet web pages are available at no charge, including most of
the major newspaper and radio/TV news stations. Hence, in one or
more embodiments, the information device 10 may download
information from such web pages.
[0184] In one or more embodiments, the vendor 203 serves also as
information provider 206 (line 207). For example, the vendor 203
may operate a web page containing information to be downloaded to
the information devices 10.
[0185] b. Commercial publication based service. In this case the
information obtained comprises publicity information. Such a
business method is commonly used in television and radio station
broadcasting.
[0186] c. Paid information service. In this case the user 201 is
charged for the information obtained. In general, billing the user
201 for information services by the provider 206 may be: [0187] a.
One time fee. [0188] b. Flat fee for a period (e.g. monthly).
[0189] c. Per communication session. [0190] d. Per lengths of
communication sessions. [0191] e. Per the information required:
Type and quantity. [0192] f. Any combination of the above.
[0193] In order to allow such paid information the connecting
information device should be authorized to obtain the required
information, such as a password or transmitting device address or
other identification means as described above and as known in the
art.
[0194] The invention embraces any combination of the above
embodiments. Furthermore, while the above business methods have
been so far described with respect to the information device 10, it
will be appreciated that such methods are applicable to other types
of devices, including any devices which automatically or
periodically communicate with a remote location.
[0195] Distinction Over Prior Art.
[0196] U.S. Pat. No. 6,442,573 to Schiller et al. describes a
device which automatically and periodically communicates to obtain
and display information. However, the following aspects distinguish
the present invention over Schiller et al.: [0197] a. The system
described by Schiller et al. is oriented towards sending data
(images) from one user to another through a provider server, while
the present invention relates to information sent solely from a
provider to a user. [0198] b. In Schiller et al. the information
received is considered private and is solely targeted towards a
specific user, and uses secured mechanism in order not to be shared
by any other users, while the present invention refers to public
information that may be accessed by multiple users. [0199] c. The
information discussed by Schiller et al. comprises images. Images
are known to require large files, hence requiring large memory and
long communication sessions. Furthermore, the display means
oriented towards displaying images requires high quality, high
resolution and large screens. In contrast, the information
transported as part of the present invention may be of any type,
such as simple text data requiring relatively small, low-resolution
display means. [0200] d. The system described by Schiller et al. is
based on mail delivery system over the Internet. No such limitation
is imposed by the present invention since no mailing services are
discussed. [0201] e. The information transported in the system
described by Schiller et al. (e.g. the images) is generated by a
user, and is usually not of interest to the general public. The
information in the present invention is mostly oriented towards
general public (or a user's group) interest information, which in
most cases may be accessed through other communication channels.
[0202] f. The system described by Schiller et al. is based on
multiple devices working in concert (community/family type).
Devices according to the present invention are not related to each
other in any way.
[0203] There are many prior-art solutions known as `push
technology`, such as by PointCast (currently Infogate Inc., of
San-Diego, Calif. USA). Such solutions involve `pushing`
information to a personal computer via the Internet using an
Internet browser. It will be appreciated that the present invention
is distinguished over such solutions since a dedicated device is
used rather than a personal computer. Furthermore, the information
device according to the present invention is `always on` and
obtains the information continuously while a personal computer
needs to be manually turned on and the browser must be operative
for obtaining data.
[0204] Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have
been described, this should not be construed to limit the scope of
the appended claims. Those skilled in the art will understand that
various modifications may be made to the described embodiment.
Moreover, to those skilled in the various arts, the invention
itself a described herein will suggest solutions to other tasks and
adaptations for other applications. It is therefore desired that
the present embodiments be considered in all respects as
illustrative and not restrictive, reference being made to appended
claims rather than the foregoing description to indicate the scope
of the invention.
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