U.S. patent application number 11/776940 was filed with the patent office on 2008-04-10 for methods and systems for compliance confirmation and incentives.
Invention is credited to Jack C. Crystal, Alan R. Neuhauser.
Application Number | 20080086533 11/776940 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38924192 |
Filed Date | 2008-04-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080086533 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Neuhauser; Alan R. ; et
al. |
April 10, 2008 |
METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR COMPLIANCE CONFIRMATION AND INCENTIVES
Abstract
Methods and systems for monitoring use of research devices by
users are disclosed. Systems and methods are disclosed that are
useful for monitoring use of research devices in accordance with
predetermined criteria, providing incentives for compliant use
thereof and/or analyzing data relating to the use thereof.
Inventors: |
Neuhauser; Alan R.; (Silver
Spring, MD) ; Crystal; Jack C.; (Owings Mill,
MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PATENT DOCKET CLERK;COWAN, LIEBOWITZ & LATMAN, P.C.
1133 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS
NEW YORK
NY
10036
US
|
Family ID: |
38924192 |
Appl. No.: |
11/776940 |
Filed: |
July 12, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60831744 |
Jul 12, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
709/206 ;
709/224 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/489 20130101;
G16H 40/63 20180101; A61B 5/02438 20130101; A61B 7/003 20130101;
G16H 40/20 20180101; A61B 3/14 20130101; A61B 5/1176 20130101; G16H
40/67 20180101; G16H 30/20 20180101; A61B 5/0077 20130101; G06Q
30/0201 20130101; A61B 5/4833 20130101; A61B 7/008 20130101; G16H
10/60 20180101; A61B 5/0816 20130101; G06Q 10/00 20130101; A61B
5/1172 20130101; A61B 7/02 20130101; G06Q 30/0203 20130101; A61B
5/0205 20130101; A61B 3/1216 20130101; A61B 5/6898 20130101; A61B
2503/12 20130101; G06Q 10/101 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
709/206 ;
709/224 |
International
Class: |
G06F 15/16 20060101
G06F015/16 |
Claims
1. A method of monitoring use by a user of a portable research
device in accordance with at least one predetermined use criterion
comprises communicating a request message to the portable research
device, the request message requesting data of a predetermined type
permitting an identification of the user of the portable research
device; receiving a response message communicated from the portable
research device including data of the predetermined type;
evaluating an identity of the user based on the received data to
produce identification data; and storing data indicating whether
the user is in compliance with the at least one predetermined use
criterion and/or a level of the user's compliance therewith based
on the identification data.
2. A system for monitoring use by a user of a portable research
device in accordance with at least one predetermined use criterion
comprises communications operative to communicate a request message
to the portable research device, the request message requesting
data of a predetermined type permitting an identification of the
user of the portable research device; the communications being
operative to receive a response message communicated from the
portable research device including data of the predetermined type;
a processor coupled with the communications to evaluate an identity
of the user based on the received data to produce identification
data; and storage coupled with the processor to receive and store
data indicating whether the user is in compliance with the at least
one predetermined use criterion and/or a level of the user's
compliance therewith based on the identification data.
3. A method of identifying a user of a portable research device,
comprises communicating a request message to the portable research
device, the request message requesting data of a predetermined type
permitting an identification of the user of the portable research
device; receiving a response message communicated from the portable
research device including data of the predetermined type;
evaluating an identity of the user based on the received data to
produce identification data; and storing the identification
data.
4. A system for identifying a user of a portable research device,
comprises communications operative to communicate a request message
to the portable research device, the request message requesting
data of a predetermined type permitting an identification of the
user of the portable research device; the communications being
operative to receive a response message communicated from the
portable research device including data of the predetermined type;
a processor coupled with the communications to evaluate an identity
of the user based on the received data to produce identification
data; and storage coupled with the processor to receive and store
the identification data.
5. A method of monitoring use by a pre-selected user of a portable
research device comprises producing monitored data by monitoring at
least one of a biometric parameter of the user, the user's data
input to the portable research device, sounds external to the
portable research device and a location or change in a location of
the portable research device; producing identification data
identifying the user based on the monitored data; and determining
whether the portable research device is being used by the user in
accordance with at least one predetermined criterion based on the
identification data.
6. A system for monitoring use by a pre-selected user of a portable
research device comprises a monitor operative to produce monitored
data by monitoring at least one of a biometric parameter of the
user, the user's data input to the portable research device, sounds
external to the portable research device and a location or change
in a location of the portable research device; and a processor
coupled with the monitor to receive the monitored data and
operative to produce identification data identifying the user based
on the monitored data and to produce compliance data indicating
whether the portable research device is being used by the user in
accordance with at least one predetermined criterion based on the
identification data.
Description
[0001] Methods and systems for monitoring use of research devices
by users are disclosed. Systems and methods are disclosed that are
useful for monitoring use of research devices in accordance with
predetermined criteria, providing incentives for compliant use
thereof and/or analyzing data relating to the use thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Research operations are conducted by establishing a panel of
participants, often referred to as panelists. In some research
operations, the panelists are provided with portable monitoring
devices to gather research data. In other research operations the
panelists' own portable devices are employed to gather research
data. In either case, the panelists are instructed to carry the
portable devices with them during the day for gathering research
data, such as data indicating exposure to media and/or other market
research data.
[0003] Those who pay to use such market research data want to be
assured that the data is reliable. In particular, if the portable
monitor was not actually carried about by a panelist during the
day, whatever data has been collected by the portable monitor does
not reflect the experience of a panelist. Accordingly, those who
pay for use of such research data want reasonable assurances from
the research organization that the portable monitors used to gather
the data have actually been carried about by individuals or at
least accompany individuals during the times that research data is
collected by such monitors.
[0004] Arbitron Inc., which pioneered the use of portable monitors
for gathering research data, has developed and implemented
techniques to provide such assurances to those who license its
research data. Such techniques are the subject of U.S. Pat. No.
5,483,276 issued Jan. 9, 1996 in the names of Brooks, et al., which
is owned by the assignee of the present application and is hereby
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
DISCLOSURE
[0005] For this application, the following terms and definitions
shall apply:
[0006] The term "data" as used herein means any indicia, signals,
marks, symbols, domains, symbol sets, representations, and any
other physical form or forms representing information, whether
permanent or temporary, whether visible, audible, acoustic,
electric, magnetic, electromagnetic or otherwise manifested. The
term "data" as used to represent predetermined information in one
physical form shall be deemed to encompass any and all
representations of corresponding information in a different
physical form or forms.
[0007] The terms "media data" and "media" as used herein mean data
which is widely accessible, whether over-the-air, or via cable,
satellite, network, internetwork (including the Internet), print,
displayed, distributed on storage media, or by any other means or
technique that is humanly perceptible, without regard to the form
or content of such data, and including but not limited to audio,
video, audio/video, text, images, animations, databases,
broadcasts, displays (including but not limited to video displays,
posters and billboards), signs, signals, web pages, print media and
streaming media data.
[0008] The term "research data" as used herein means data
comprising (1) data concerning usage of media, (2) data concerning
exposure to media, and/or (3) market research data.
[0009] The term "presentation data" as used herein shall mean media
data, content other than media data or a message to be presented to
a user.
[0010] The term "database" as used herein means an organized body
of related data, regardless of the manner in which the data or the
organized body thereof is represented. For example, the organized
body of related data may be in the form of a table, a map, a grid,
a packet, a datagram, a frame, a file, an e-mail, a message, a
document, a list or in any other form.
[0011] The term "correlate" as used herein means a process of
ascertaining a relationship between or among data, including but
not limited to an identity relationship, a correspondence or other
relationship of such data to further data, inclusion in a dataset,
exclusion from a dataset, a predefined mathematical relationship
between or among the data and/or to further data, and the existence
of a common aspect between or among the data.
[0012] The terms "purchase" and "purchasing" as used herein mean a
process of obtaining title, a license, possession or other right in
or to goods or services in exchange for consideration, whether
payment of money, barter or other legally sufficient consideration,
or as promotional samples. As used herein, the term "goods" and
"services" include, but are not limited to, data and rights in or
to data.
[0013] The term "network" as used herein includes both networks and
internetworks of all kinds, including the Internet, and is not
limited to any particular network or inter-network.
[0014] The terms "first," "second," "primary," and "secondary" are
used herein to distinguish one element, set, data, object, step,
process, function, activity or thing from another, and are not used
to designate relative position, arrangement in time or relative
importance, unless otherwise stated explicitly.
[0015] The terms "coupled", "coupled to", and "coupled with" as
used herein each mean a relationship between or among two or more
devices, apparatus, files, circuits, elements, functions,
operations, processes, programs, media, components, networks,
systems, subsystems, and/or means, constituting any one or more of
(a) a connection, whether direct or through one or more other
devices, apparatus, files, circuits, elements, functions,
operations, processes, programs, media, components, networks,
systems, subsystems, or means, (b) a communications relationship,
whether direct or through one or more other devices, apparatus,
files, circuits, elements, functions, operations, processes,
programs, media, components, networks, systems, subsystems, or
means, and/or (c) a functional relationship in which the operation
of any one or more devices, apparatus, files, circuits, elements,
functions, operations, processes, programs, media, components,
networks, systems, subsystems, or means depends, in whole or in
part, on the operation of any one or more others thereof.
[0016] The terms "communicate" and "communicating" as used herein
include both conveying data from a source to a destination, and
delivering data to a communications medium, system, channel,
network, device, wire, cable, fiber, circuit, and/or link to be
conveyed to a destination. The term "communications" as used herein
includes one or more of a communications medium, system, channel,
network, device, wire, cable, fiber, circuit and link.
[0017] The term "message" as used herein includes data to be
communicated, in communication or which has been communicated.
[0018] The term "processor" as used herein means processing
devices, apparatus, programs, circuits, components, systems and
subsystems, whether implemented in hardware, software or both, and
whether or not programmable. The term "processor" as used herein
includes, but is not limited to one or more computers, hardwired
circuits, signal modifying devices and systems, devices and
machines for controlling systems, central processing units,
programmable devices and systems, field programmable gate arrays,
application specific integrated circuits, systems on a chip,
systems comprised of discrete elements and/or circuits, state
machines, virtual machines, data processors, processing facilities
and combinations of any of the foregoing.
[0019] The terms "storage" and "data storage" as used herein mean
data storage devices, apparatus, programs, circuits, components,
systems, subsystems and storage media serving to retain data,
whether on a temporary or permanent basis, and to provide such
retained data.
[0020] The terms "panelist," "panel member" and "participant" are
interchangeably used herein to refer to a person who is, knowingly
or unknowingly, participating in a study to gather information,
whether by electronic, survey or other means, about that person's
activity.
[0021] The term "household" as used herein is to be broadly
construed to include family members, a family living at the same
residence, a group of persons related or unrelated to one another
living at the same residence, and a group of persons (of which the
total number of unrelated persons does not exceed a predetermined
number) living within a common facility, such as a fraternity
house, an apartment or other similar structure or arrangement.
[0022] The term "activity" as used herein includes, but is not
limited to, purchasing conduct, shopping habits, viewing habits,
computer, Internet usage, exposure to media, personal attitudes,
awareness, opinions and beliefs, as well as other forms of activity
discussed herein.
[0023] The term "portable user appliance" (also referred to herein,
for convenience, by the abbreviation "PUA") as used herein means an
electrical or non-electrical device capable of being carried by or
on the person of a user or capable of being disposed on or in, or
held by, a physical object (e.g., attache, purse) capable of being
carried by or on the user, and having at least one function of
primary benefit to such user, including without limitation, a
cellular telephone, a personal digital assistant ("PDA"), a
Blackberry a device, a radio, a television, a game system (e.g., a
Gameboy.RTM. device), a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a GPS
device, a personal audio device (e.g., an MP3 player), a DVD
player, a two-way radio, a personal communications device, a
telematics device, a remote control device, a wireless headset, a
wristwatch, a portable data storage device (e.g., Thumb.TM. drive),
a camera, a recorder, a keyless entry device, a ring, a comb, a
pen, a pencil, a notebook, a wallet, a tool, a flashlight, an
implement, a pair of glasses, an article of clothing, a belt, a
belt buckle, a fob, an article of jewelry, an ornamental article, a
pair of shoes or other foot garment (e.g., sandals), a jacket, and
a hat, as well as any devices combining any of the foregoing or
their functions.
[0024] The term "research device" as used herein shall mean (1) a
portable user appliance configured or otherwise enabled to gather,
store and/or communicate research data, or to cooperate with other
devices to gather, store and/or communicate research data, and/or
(2) a research data gathering, storing and/or communicating
device.
[0025] The term "user-beneficial function" as used herein shall
mean a function initiated or carried out by a person with the use
of a PUA, which function is of primary benefit to that person.
[0026] A method of monitoring use by a user of a portable research
device in accordance with at least one predetermined use criterion
comprises communicating a request message to the portable research
device, the request message requesting data of a predetermined type
permitting an identification of the user of the portable research
device; receiving a response message communicated from the portable
research device including data of the predetermined type;
evaluating an identity of the user based on the received data to
produce identification data; and storing data indicating whether
the user is in compliance with the at least one predetermined use
criterion and/or a level of the user's compliance therewith based
on the identification data.
[0027] A system for monitoring use by a user of a portable research
device in accordance with at least one predetermined use criterion
comprises communications operative to communicate a request message
to the portable research device, the request message requesting
data of a predetermined type permitting an identification of the
user of the portable research device; the communications being
operative to receive a response message communicated from the
portable research device including data of the predetermined type;
a processor coupled with the communications to evaluate an identity
of the user based on the received data to produce identification
data; and storage coupled with the processor to receive and store
data indicating whether the user is in compliance with the at least
one predetermined use criterion and/or a level of the user's
compliance therewith based on the identification data.
[0028] A method of identifying a user of a portable research
device, comprises communicating a request message to the portable
research device, the request message requesting data of a
predetermined type permitting an identification of the user of the
portable research device; receiving a response message communicated
from the portable research device including data of the
predetermined type; evaluating an identity of the user based on the
received data to produce identification data; and storing the
identification data.
[0029] A system for identifying a user of a portable research
device, comprises communications operative to communicate a request
message to the portable research device, the request message
requesting data of a predetermined type permitting an
identification of the user of the portable research device; the
communications being operative to receive a response message
communicated from the portable research device including data of
the predetermined type; a processor coupled with the communications
to evaluate an identity of the user based on the received data to
produce identification data; and storage coupled with the processor
to receive and store the identification data.
[0030] A method of monitoring use by a pre-selected user of a
portable research device comprises producing monitored data by
monitoring at least one of a biometric parameter of the user, the
user's data input to the portable research device, sounds external
to the portable research device and a location or change in a
location of the portable research device; producing identification
data identifying the user based on the monitored data; and
determining whether the portable research device is being used by
the user in accordance with at least one predetermined criterion
based on the identification data.
[0031] A system for monitoring use by a pre-selected user of a
portable research device comprises a monitor operative to produce
monitored data by monitoring at least one of a biometric parameter
of the user, the user's data input to the portable research device,
sounds external to the portable research device and a location or
change in a location of the portable research device; and a
processor coupled with the monitor to receive the monitored data
and operative to produce identification data identifying the user
based on the monitored data and to produce compliance data
indicating whether the portable research device is being used by
the user in accordance with at least one predetermined criterion
based on the identification data.
[0032] Certain embodiments of the methods and systems are presented
in the following disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0033] FIG. 1A illustrates various monitoring systems that include
a portable user appliance ("PUA") used by a user and configured to
operate as a research device;
[0034] FIG. 1B is a block diagram showing certain details of the
monitoring systems of FIG. 1A;
[0035] FIG. 1C is a block diagram showing the monitoring systems of
FIG. 1A including a PUA coupled with a docking station;
[0036] FIGS. 2A and 2B are flow diagrams illustrating actions by
the monitoring systems of FIGS. 1A-1C which actively monitor use of
the PUA;
[0037] FIGS. 3A and 3B are flow diagrams illustrating actions by
the monitoring systems of FIGS. 1A-1C which passively monitor use
of the PUA;
[0038] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating actions by the
monitoring systems of FIGS. 1A-1C which actively and passively
monitor use of the PUA;
[0039] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a cellular telephone configured
to operate as a research device;
[0040] FIG. 5A is a functional block diagram for use in explaining
certain embodiments involving the use of the cellular telephone of
FIG. 5;
[0041] Numerous types of research operations carried out with the
use of research devices are possible, including, without
limitation, television and radio program audience measurement;
exposure to advertising in various media, such as television,
radio, print and outdoor advertising, among others; consumer
spending habits; consumer shopping habits including the particular
retail stores and other locations visited during shopping and
recreational activities; travel patterns, such as the particular
routes taken between home and work, and other locations; consumer
attitudes, beliefs, awareness and preferences; and so on. For the
desired type of media and/or market research operation to be
conducted, particular activity of individuals is monitored. In
research operations research data relating to two or more of the
foregoing are gathered, while in others only one kind of such data
is gathered.
[0042] Various monitoring techniques are suitable. For example,
television viewing or radio listening habits, including exposure to
commercials therein, are monitored utilizing a variety of
techniques. In certain techniques, acoustic energy to which an
individual is exposed is monitored to produce data which identifies
or characterizes a program, song, station, channel, commercial,
etc. that is being watched or listened to by the individual. Where
audio media includes ancillary codes that provide such information,
suitable decoding techniques are employed to detect the encoded
information, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,450,490 and
No. 5,764,763 to Jensen, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,579,124 to Aijala,
et al., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,574,962, 5,581,800 and 5,787,334 to
Fardeau, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,871,180 to Neuhauser, et al., U.S.
Pat. No. 6,862,355 to Kolessar, et al. issued Mar. 1, 2005 and U.S.
Pat. No. 6,845,360 to Jensen, et al., issued Jan. 18, 2005, each of
which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and
all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entireties.
[0043] Still other suitable decoding techniques are the subject of
PCT Publication WO 00/04662 to Srinivasan, U.S. Pat. No. 5,319,735
to Preuss, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,175,627 to Petrovich, et al.,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,828,325 to Wolosewicz, et al., U.S. Pat. No.
6,154,484 to Lee et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,932 to Smith, et al.,
PCT Publication WO 99/59275 to Lu, et al., PCT Publication WO
98/26529 to Lu, et al., and PCT Publication WO 96/27264 to Lu, et
al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,006,555 to Srinivasan, U.S. Pat. No. 6,968,564
to Srinivasan, PCT publication WO 05/99385 to Ramaswamy, et al.,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,879,652 to Srinivasan, U.S. Pat. No. 6,621,881 to
Srinivasan and U.S. Pat. No. 6,807,230 to Srinivasan all of which
are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
[0044] In some cases a signature is extracted from transduced media
data for identification by matching with reference signatures of
known media data. Suitable techniques for this purpose include
those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,612,729 to Ellis, et al. and in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,739,398 to Thomas, et al., each of which is
assigned to the assignee of the present application and both of
which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
[0045] Still other suitable techniques are the subject of U.S. Pat.
No. 2,662,168 to Scherbatskoy, U.S. Pat. No. 3,919,479 to Moon, et
al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,697,209 to Kiewit, et al., U.S. Pat. No.
4,677,466 to Lert, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,512,933 to Wheatley, et
al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,955,070 to Welsh, et al., U.S. Pat. No.
4,918,730 to Schulze, U.S. Pat. No. 4,843,562 to Kenyon, et al.,
U.S. Pat. No. 4,450,551 to Kenyon, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,230,990
to Lert, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,934 to Lu, et al., European
Published Patent Application EP 0887958 to Bichsel and PCT
publication No. WO 91/11062 to Young, et al., PCT Publication WO
05/006768 to Lee, et al., PCT Publication No. WO 06/023770 to
Srinivasan, and PCT Publication No. WO 05/046201 to Lee, all of
which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
[0046] One advantageous technique carries out either or both of
code detection and signature extraction remotely from the location
where the research data is gathered, as disclosed in US Published
Patent Application 2003/0005430 published Jan. 2, 2003 to Ronald S.
Kolessar, which is assigned to the assignee of the present
application and is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
[0047] If location tracking or exposure to outdoor advertising is
carried out, then various techniques for doing so are employed.
Suitable techniques for location tracking or monitoring exposure to
outdoor advertising are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,958,710 in the
names of Jack K. Zhang, Jack C. Crystal, and James M. Jensen,
issued Oct. 25, 2005, and US Published Patent Application
2005/0035857 A1 published Feb. 17, 2005 in the names of Jack K.
Zhang, Jack C. Crystal, James M. Jensen and Eugene L. Flanagan III,
filed Aug. 13, 2003, all of which are assigned to the assignee of
the present application and hereby incorporated by reference herein
in their entireties.
[0048] Where usage of publications, such as periodicals, books, and
magazines, is monitored, suitable techniques for doing so are
employed, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 11/084,481 in the names of James M. Jensen, Jack C. Crystal,
Alan R. Neuhauser, Jack Zhang, Daniel W. Pugh, Douglas J. Visnius,
and Eugene L. Flanagan III, filed Mar. 18, 2005, which is assigned
to the assignee of the present application and hereby incorporated
by reference herein in its entirety.
[0049] In addition to those types of research data mentioned above
and the various techniques identified for gathering such types of
data, other types of research data may be gathered and other types
of techniques may be employed. For example, research data relating
to consumer purchasing conduct, consumer product return conduct,
exposure of consumers to products and presence and/or proximity to
commercial establishments may be gathered, and various techniques
for doing so may be employed. Suitable techniques for gathering
data concerning presence and/or proximity to commercial
establishments are disclosed in US Published Patent Application
2005/0200476 A1 published Sep. 15, 2005 in the names of David
Patrick Forr, James M. Jensen, and Eugene L. Flanagan III, filed
Mar. 15, 2004, and in US Published Patent Application 2005/0243784
A1 published Nov. 3, 2005 in the names of Joan Fitzgerald, Jack
Crystal, Alan Neuhauser, James M. Jensen, David Patrick Forr, and
Eugene L. Flanagan III, filed Mar. 29, 2005. Suitable techniques
for gathering data concerning exposure of consumers to products are
disclosed in US Published Patent Application 2005/0203798 A1
published Sep. 15, 2005 in the names of James M. Jensen and Eugene
L. Flanagan III, filed Mar. 15, 2004.
[0050] Moreover, techniques involving the active participation of
the panel members may be used in research operations. For example,
surveys may be employed where a panel member is asked questions
utilizing the panel member's research device after recruitment.
Thus, it is to be understood that both the exemplary types of
research data to be gathered discussed herein and the exemplary
manners of gathering research data as discussed herein are only
illustrative and that other types of research data may be gathered
and that other techniques for gathering research data may be
employed.
[0051] Certain research devices, including many disclosed in the
patents and applications incorporated herein by reference, are
intended solely for use in conducting research operations and do
not implement functions of primary benefit to the user. Other
research devices are implemented by, in or in combination with a
PUA.
[0052] Various PUA's already have capabilities sufficient to enable
the implementation of the desired monitoring technique or
techniques to be employed during the research operation to enable
their use as research devices. As an example, cellular telephones
have microphones which convert acoustic energy into audio data and
GPS receivers for determining their locations. Various cellular
telephones further have processing and storage capabilities.
[0053] In certain embodiments, various existing PUA's are modified
merely by software and/or minor hardware changes to carry out a
research operation. In certain other embodiments, PUA's are
redesigned and substantially reconstructed for this purpose.
[0054] In certain embodiments, the research device itself is
operative to gather research data. In certain embodiments, the
research device emits data that causes another device to gather
research data. Such embodiments include various embodiments
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,958,710 and in U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 11/084,481, referenced above, as well as U.S. provisional
patent application No. 60/751,825 filed Dec. 20, 2005 assigned to
the assignee of the present application and hereby incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety. In certain embodiments, the
research device is operative both to gather research data and to
emit data that causes another device to gather research data.
[0055] Various embodiments of methods and systems for monitoring
use of a research device by one or more users are described herein
below. Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic
illustrations of a monitoring system 1 that includes a PUA 2, which
is used by a user 3, and a processor 5. In certain embodiments
otherwise corresponding to the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the
PUA 2 is replaced by a research device that does not comprise a
PUA. The processor 5 may include one or a plurality of processors
which are located together or separate from one another disposed
within or controlled by one or more organizations. As shown, the
PUA 2 may be coupled to the processor 5 via communications 7 which
allows data to be exchanged between the PUA 2 and the processor 5.
In certain embodiments, the PUA 2 is wirelessly coupled via
communications 7 to the processor 5.
[0056] In some embodiments, the monitoring system 1 also includes
storage 6 for storing data including, but not limited to, data
received and/or processed by the central processor 5. In certain
embodiments storage 6 includes one or more storage units located
together or separate from one another at the same or different
locations. In certain embodiments storage 6 is included with
processor 5.
[0057] FIG. 1B is a more detailed illustration of an embodiment of
the monitoring system 1 in which the PUA 2 is adapted to
communicate wirelessly with the processor 5 using wireless
communications 8. The PUA 2 includes a communication interface 9
for communicating and receiving data through communications 8. As
shown, the PUA 2 also includes a message input 11 to allow the user
of the PUA 2 to input a message into the PUA 2. The message input
11 is coupled with the communication interface 9 of the PUA 2, so
that a message inputted using the message input 11 can be
communicated from the PUA 2 via communications 8. It is understood
that messages inputted using the message input 11 may be
communicated to the processor 5, or to another PUA 2, or to another
location or device coupled with communications 8. In the
illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the message input 11
comprises a plurality of keys 11a in the form of a keypad. However,
the configuration of the message input 11 may vary, such that, for
example, the message input 11 may comprise one or more of a key, a
button, a switch, a keyboard, a microphone, a video camera, a touch
pad, an accelerometer, a motion detector, a touch screen, a tablet,
a scroll-and-click wheel or the like.
[0058] In the illustrative configuration shown in FIG. 1B, the PUA
2 also comprises a sensor or a detector 13 for detecting one or
more parameters. The parameter or parameters detected by the
sensor/detector 13 include, but are not limited to, the remaining
power capacity of the PUA 2, one or more of a user's biometric
functions or parameters, a location of the PUA 2, a change in
location of the PUA 2, data input to the PUA by the user, sounds
external to the PUA 2, motion of the PUA 2, pressure being applied
to the PUA 2, or an impact of the PUA 2 with another object. In
certain embodiments, sensor/detector 13 detects a presence
indication signal or a personal identification signal emitted by a
signal emitter 14 carried in or on the person of the user. In
certain ones of these embodiments, the signal emitter 14 comprises
a device worn or carried by the user, such as a ring, a necklace,
or other article of jewelry, a wristwatch, a key fob, or article of
clothing that emits a predetermined signal indicating a user's
presence or the identity of the user wearing or carrying the
device. The signal may be emitted as an acoustic signal, an RF or
other electromagnetic signal, or a chemical signal that
sensor/detector 13 is operative to receive, or an electrical
signal. In certain embodiments, the signal emitter 14 comprises a
device implanted in the user, such as under the user's skin. In
certain embodiments, the sensor/detector 13 includes a plurality of
sensors or detectors each for detecting one or more of a plurality
of parameters.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 1B, the sensor/detector 13 is coupled with
the communications interface 9 of the PUA 2 so that data produced
as a result of the sensing or detecting performed by the
sensor/detector 13 can be communicated from the PUA 2 to the
processor 5. Although the PUA 2 shown in FIG. 1B includes both the
message input 11 and the sensor/detector 13, it is understood that
in other embodiments, one of these elements may be omitted
depending on the design of the PUA 2 and the requirements of the
monitoring system 1.
[0060] As in FIG. 1A, the illustrative configuration of the
monitoring system 1 shown in FIG. 1B includes storage 6 coupled or
included with the processor 5 to store data, including data
received and/or processed by the processor 5. Data stored in
storage 6 can also be retrieved by the processor 5 when needed.
[0061] The PUA 2 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B may be supplied with
power from an A/C power source or other power supply, or using one
or more batteries or other on-board power source (not shown for
purposes of simplicity and clarity). It is understood that
batteries used to supply power to the PUA 2 may include any type of
batteries, whether rechargeable or not, that are suitable for use
with the particular PUA 2. In certain embodiments, the PUA 2
receives power from rechargeable batteries or another kind of
rechargeable power supply, such as a capacitor, and/or from a
radiant energy converter, such as a photoelectric power converter,
or a mechanical energy converter, such as a microelectric
generator. In certain embodiments, the PUA 2 is connected with a
docking station from time to time, which is used for charging the
PUA 2 and/or transmitting data stored in the PUA 2 to the processor
5. FIG. 1C shows an embodiment of the PUA 2 used with the docking
station 15. The docking station 15, which is typically not carried
by the user and not coupled with the PUA 2 while the PUA is being
carried by the user, is adapted to couple with the PUA 2 via a
coupling 16. The coupling 16 can be a direct connection between the
PUA 2 and the docking station 15 to allow recharging of the PUA 2
and/or communication of data between the PUA 2 and the docking
station 15. In certain embodiments, data is communicated from the
PUA to the docking station by a wireless infra-red, RF, capacitive
or inductive link. In certain embodiments, data is communicated
from the PUA 2 to the processor 5 by cellular telephone link or
other wired or wireless network or device coupling.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 1C, in certain embodiments the docking
station is connected to a power supply 17 to provide power for
charging the PUA 2 when the PUA 2 is coupled with the docking
station 15. In addition, in certain embodiments the docking station
15 includes a communication interface 19 adapted to communicate
with the processor 5 through communications 7. When the PUA 2 is
coupled with the docking station 15 via the coupling 16, data
stored in the PUA 2, such as data collected by the PUA 2 when it
was carried by the user, is transferred to the docking station 15
using the coupling 16 and thereafter communicated using the
communication interface 19 to the processor 5 through
communications 7. In these embodiments, the use of the docking
station 15, rather than the PUA 2, to communicate to the processor
5 data collected by the PUA 2 enables conservation of power by the
PUA 2 or the use of an internal power supply having a relatively
low power capacity. In certain embodiments, the docking station 15
is also used to receive data from the processor 5 via
communications 7, and to transfer the received data from the
docking station 15 to the PUA 2 via the coupling 16 when the PUA 2
is coupled with the docking station 15.
[0063] As can be appreciated, the configuration of the docking
station 15 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 1C and
may vary from one embodiment to another. For example, in certain
embodiments, the docking station is used only for charging the PUA
2 and does not include a communication interface 19. In such
embodiments, the docking station 15 is implemented variously as a
cradle receiving the PUA 2 or as a standard AC-to DC converter,
like a cellular telephone charger. In other embodiments, the
docking station 15 is used only for communication of data between
the PUA 2 and the processor 5 and does not charge the PUA 2. In
such embodiments, the PUA 2 may be connected to a power supply,
separate from the docking station 15, for charging, or charged
using an internal power converter, or by replacing one or more
batteries.
[0064] In certain embodiments, the PUA 2 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C
optionally includes an output (not shown for purposes of simplicity
and clarity) for outputting a message to the user. The output can
be in the form of a display for displaying text, or one or more
symbols and/or images, a speaker or earphone for outputting a
voicemail or a voice message, or one or more LED's or lamps for
indicating a message to the user. It is understood that the output
or outputs are not limited to the examples provided herein and can
comprise any suitable output or outputs adapted to provide a
message to the user.
[0065] The monitoring system 1 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B is used in
certain embodiments for monitoring use by a user of the PUA 2 in
accordance with at least one predetermined use criterion, namely,
that the PUA 2 is being carried and/or used by a specific user. In
certain embodiments, the monitoring system 1 is used to determine
the identity of the user, whether or not a specific user, so that
the data gathered by or with the use of the PUA 2 can be associated
with the identity of the actual user. In certain embodiments, the
monitoring system 1 monitors use of the PUA 2 in accordance with
one or more of the following criteria: that the PUA 2 is being
carried and/or used, that the PUA 2 is turned "on," that the PUA 2
is charged, that the PUA 2 maintains a minimum power capacity, that
the PUA 2 is, or has been, docked at, or connected with, the
docking station 15 for a predetermined length of time, at certain
times or during a predetermined time period, that the PUA is
functioning properly to provide a benefit to the user, and that the
PUA 2 is capable of collecting, storing and/or communicating
research data, or of cooperating with one or more other devices to
do so. Other predetermined use criteria not mentioned above may
also be employed in monitoring the PUA's use.
[0066] In certain embodiments, the method of monitoring use by a
user of a research device such as PUA 2 in accordance with at least
one predetermined use criterion comprises communicating a request
message to the research device, the request message requesting data
of a predetermined type permitting an identification of the user of
the research device, receiving a response message communicated from
the research device including data of the predetermined type;
evaluating an identity of the user based on the received data to
produce identification data; and storing data indicating whether
the user is in compliance with the at least one predetermined use
criterion and/or a level of the user's compliance therewith based
on the identification data.
[0067] In certain embodiments, the method of identifying a user of
a research device such as PUA 2 comprises communicating a request
message to the research device, the request message requesting data
of a predetermined type permitting an identification of the user of
the research device; receiving a response message communicated from
the research device including data of the predetermined type;
evaluating an identity of the user based on the received data to
produce identification data; and storing the identification
data.
[0068] Certain embodiments of these monitoring methods that require
the active participation of the user are illustrated in more detail
in FIG. 2A, which shows a block diagram of the actions performed by
the monitoring systems shown in FIGS. 1A-1C.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 2A, a request message is first communicated
100 to a PUA having a two-way communication capability with a
remotely-located processor, such as processor 5 of FIGS. 1A-1C,
requesting a response from a user of the PUA including data of a
predetermined type from which the user's identity can be
determined. In certain embodiments, the request message comprises a
text message, a telephone call, a voice mail, an e-mail, a voice
message, a sound, a plurality of sounds, a web page, an image, a
light alert, or a combination thereof, or any other data presented
to the user via the PUA which indicates to the user that a response
is being requested. The request message is presented to the user
using an appropriate output (for example, a sound reproducing
device, such as a speaker or earphone) if the message is a
telephone call, a voice mail, a voice message, a sound or a
plurality of sounds; a visual display, if the message is a text
message, an e-mail, a web page or another image; and/or one or more
light emitting devices (for example, LED's or lamps) if the message
is a light alert. In certain embodiments, the request message
requests a pre-determined response from the PUA user. In certain
embodiments, the request is accompanied by data of interest to the
user, such as access to certain web sites or content, such as
music, video, news, or electronic coupons. In certain ones of such
embodiments, access to such data is conditioned on providing the
requested response according to parameters expressed in the request
message or otherwise predetermined. In certain embodiments, the
processor is implemented as one or more programmable processors
running a communications management program module serving to
control communications with the PUA and/or its user, along with
other PUA's, to request a response including data from which
compliance can be assessed. In certain ones of such embodiments,
such communications are scheduled in advance by the programming
module with or without reference to a database storing schedule
data representing a schedule of such communications, and carried
out thereby automatically by means of communications 7. In certain
ones of such embodiments, such communications are scheduled in
advance and notified to human operators who initiate calls to the
PUA's and/or the PUA's users according to the schedule, to solicit
data from which compliance can be assessed. In certain ones of such
embodiments, both automatic communications and human-initiated
communications as described above are carried out.
[0070] In response to the request message, a response message is
generated 102 in the PUA. In certain embodiments, the response
message is generated by inputting the response message by an action
of the user using the message input of the PUA providing data from
which the user's identity can be evaluated. In particular, in
certain embodiments in which the response message comprises a code
identifying the user, including letter characters, number
characters or symbols, or a combination thereof, the response
message is generated using the message input of the PUA.
Alternatively, the response message comprises data stored in the
PUA, in which case, the response message is generated by selecting
the stored data using the message input. In other embodiments, the
response message is a response signal generated by activating the
message input, such as, for example, by switching one or more
switches or by pressing one or more buttons of the message input.
Where the response message comprises one or more audible sounds,
the response message is generated by inputting the sounds using the
message input. In such embodiments, the message input comprises an
audio input device, such as an acoustic transducer.
[0071] After the response message is generated in the PUA, the
response message is communicated from the PUA through
communications thereof and is received 104 in the remotely-located
processor, such as processor 5. In certain embodiments, such
communications comprises cellular telephone communications, PCS
communications, wireless networking communications, satellite
communications, or a Bluetooth, ZigBee, electro-optical or other
wireless link. In certain embodiments, such communications
comprises as Ethernet interface, a telephone modem, a USB port, a
Firewire connection, a cable modem, an audio or video connection,
or other network or device interface. In certain embodiments, when
the response message from the PUA is received (with or without data
from which the user's identity can be determined), or a
predetermined time period passes without receiving the response
message, the processor provides data indicating whether the use of
the PUA is in compliance with at least one predetermined criterion
and/or the level of the user's compliance. The data provided by the
processor is then stored 106 by the processor. In certain
embodiments, the processor provides data indicating a user's
compliance and/or the level of a user's compliance based on whether
or not the response message from the PUA was received. In other
embodiments, the processor provides compliance and/or level of
compliance data based on the content of the response message in
addition to or in the absence of data from which the user's
identity can be determined, and/or the length of time passed before
the response message from the PUA is received, and/or other factors
discussed in more detail herein below. In certain embodiments the
processor is implemented as one or more programmable processors
running a compliance analysis program module which receives the
data returned by the PUA and/or the user of the PUA to the
communications management program module and serves to analyze the
compliance of the user based on such data and in accordance with
compliance rules stored in a storage, such as storage 6 of FIGS.
1A-1C. Based on such analysis, the compliance analysis program
module produces compliance data indicating whether the user
complied with the predetermined use criteria and/or a level of such
compliance.
[0072] In certain embodiments, a reward may be provided to a user
when the user's use of the PUA is in compliance with the
predetermined use criteria or when the user's level of compliance
is above a pre-selected compliance level. The reward may be in the
form of cash, credit, a prize or a benefit, such as a free service
or points usable to make purchases or receive prizes, either by
means of the PUA or through a different means or service. In
certain ones of such embodiments, the reward comprises data of
interest to the user, such as access to certain web sites or
content, such as music, video, news, or electronic coupons. As
shown in FIG. 2A, when data indicating compliance or a level of
compliance above a pre-selected compliance level is produced and/or
stored, a reward to the user is determined 108. The reward to the
user, including the type of the reward and/or an amount or quality
of the reward, is determined by the processor of the monitoring
system based on the stored data indicating user's compliance or the
level of user's compliance. Where the reward is determined based on
the level of the user's compliance, in certain embodiments the
reward is provided to the user if the user's level of compliance is
higher than a predetermined level and/or the type and/or the amount
of the reward determined in 108 is varied as the level of the
user's compliance increases or decreases. For instance, in certain
embodiments a number of points awarded to the user that may be used
to purchase goods or services, is greater where the user responds
to a larger percentage of request messages, or is increased as the
number of request messages that the user responds to increases.
[0073] Providing rewards to PUA users for use of the PUA in
compliance with the predetermined use criteria provides an
incentive for the users to comply with the use requirements so as
to earn a reward or to earn a higher reward. Therefore, providing a
reward to the PUA user for the correct use of the PUA also promotes
correct use of the PUA in the future in accordance with the
predetermined usage criterion or criteria.
[0074] In certain embodiments, the monitoring system also
communicates a message to the PUA user indicating compliance and/or
the level of compliance with the predetermined use criteria for the
PUA and/or the reward earned by the user 110. The message
communicated to the user can be in the form of a text message, a
telephone call, a voice mail, a voice message, an e-mail, an image
or a combination thereof communicated via the PUA or otherwise. In
some embodiments, the message can be in form of a light indication,
such as by lighting up an LED or lamp to indicate whether the use
of the PUA is in compliance or whether a reward has been earned by
the user. As shown in FIG. 2A, the determination of the reward to
the user 108 and the communication of the message to the user 110
are optional actions by the monitoring system in monitoring the
user's use of the PUA. In some configurations, for example, the
determination of the reward is omitted and the monitoring system
proceeds to communicating the message to the user indicating the
user's compliance and/or level of compliance. In other
configurations, however, the monitoring system determines the
reward to the user and automatically provides the reward to the
user, such as by sending the reward directly to the user or
applying the reward to the user's account, without communicating
any messages to the user indicating the user's compliance, level of
compliance or reward earned. In certain embodiments, where the
monitoring system has determined that a user has failed to comply,
it sends one or more messages to the user and/or to the user's PUA
noting such failure, with or without further message content
encouraging compliance in the future. In certain ones of such
embodiments, the message noting failure to comply is sent in a
plurality of different forms, such as both a text message and a
voice call, which can be generated either automatically or by human
intervention. In certain embodiments, the determination of a reward
is made by one or more programmable processors running a reward
determination program module that receives the compliance data
produced by the compliance analysis program module and serve to
produce reward data based on stored rules, such as rules stored in
storage 6, specifying what rewards (including kind and amount), if
any, to accord to the user for whom the compliance data was
produced. Based on the reward data, the communications management
program module communicates a reward notification to the PUA and/or
its user, and/or communicates an order to a service (such as a
supplier of goods or services, which can include content and other
data) to provide the determined rewards to the user or credit an
account of the user with such rewards.
[0075] In certain embodiments, the use of a research device is
monitored by communicating a request message to the research
device, the request message requesting a response from the user of
the research device, receiving a response message communicated from
the research device in response to the request message, and
determining whether the use of the research device by the user is
in compliance with the at least one predetermined use criterion.
FIG. 2B illustrates this embodiment of monitoring use of a research
device, namely, a user's PUA, by the monitoring system. In certain
other embodiments otherwise corresponding to the embodiment of FIG.
2B, the user's PUA is replaced by a research device that does not
comprise a PUA.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 2B at 200, a request message is sent to a
PUA from a monitoring system, a response message is generated 202
in the PUA and communicated thereby to the monitoring system, in
response to the request message and the response message is
received 204 by the monitoring system from the PUA (or its
non-receipt is recorded). These actions performed by the monitoring
system are similar to those, i.e. 100, 102 and 104, described above
with respect to FIG. 2A, and therefore a detailed description
thereof is omitted for purposes of clarity and simplicity. As
further shown in FIG. 2B, when the response message is received
from the PUA, the monitoring system determines 205 whether the
user's use of the PUA complies with at least one predetermined use
criterion, namely, that the PUA is being carried by a specific
user. This determination 205 is performed by a processor of the
monitoring system. As mentioned herein above, in certain
embodiments the predetermined criteria includes, but is not limited
to, the PUA being carried, the PUA being turned "on," the PUA being
charged, the PUA maintaining a minimum charge or power capacity,
the PUA being docked at, or connected with, the docking station for
a predetermined length and/or period of time, or at certain times,
the PUA functioning properly and the PUA being capable of
collecting, storing and/or communicating research data, or of
cooperating with one or more other devices to do so.
[0077] In certain embodiments, the determination 205 whether the
use of the PUA is in compliance with the predetermined criteria is
based on at least one of the receipt or non-receipt 204 of the
response message from the PUA, the time of receipt of the response
message and the content of the response message. For example, when
the determination 205 is based on the receipt or non-receipt of the
response message from the PUA, the processor determines that the
use of the PUA is not in compliance with the predetermined criteria
if the receipt message is not received within a predetermined
period of time from the sending of the request message to the PUA
in 200. In certain ones of such embodiments, a request message
requesting a response from the user (such as a text message or
voice prompt) is sent to the PUA at regular intervals during the
day, at intervals determined according to dayparts or according to
a pseudorandom schedule, and the promptness of the user's response,
if any, is used to determine an amount or quality of a reward to
the user.
[0078] When the determination of compliance with predetermined use
criteria is based on the time of receipt of the response message,
the processor determines how much time had elapsed between the time
of sending of the request message to the PUA and the time of
receipt of the response message from the PUA and compares it to a
selected compliant response time. The compliant response time in
certain embodiments is a constant duration for all users, all
PUA's, all types of request messages, all places and all times. In
certain other embodiments, the compliant response time is selected
based on user demographics or an individual profile. In certain
embodiments, the compliant response time is based on the type of
request message and/or its contents. In certain ones of such
embodiments, the compliant response time is specified in the
message, for example, "Please respond within ten minutes." In
certain embodiments the compliant response time is selected based
on the type of PUA that receives it, for example, a cellular
telephone or Blackberry device for which a relatively short
response time can be expected, as compared to a personal audio or
DVD player, for which a longer response time may be appropriate. In
certain embodiments, the compliant response time is selected
depending on the manner in which the request message is to be
presented to the user. For example, if receipt of the message is
indicated to the user by an audible alert or device vibration, a
shorter response time can be expected than in the case of a message
presented only visually. In certain embodiments, the compliant
response time is selected based on the time of day. For example,
during morning or afternoon drive time, the response time may be
lengthened since the user may not be able to respond as quickly as
during the evening when the user is at home. In certain
embodiments, the compliant response time is selected based on the
user's location. For example, in certain places it may be customary
to respond to messages more quickly than in others. In certain
embodiments, the compliant response time is selected based on a
combination of two or more of the foregoing factors.
[0079] If the time elapsed between the sending of the request
message and the receipt of the response is less than the selected
response time, it is determined that the user's use of the PUA is
in compliance with the pre-determined criteria. However, if the
elapsed time is greater than the selected response time, it is
determined that the use of the PUA is not in compliance with the
predetermined criteria. In certain embodiments, the amount of time
elapsed between the sending 200 of the request message and the
receiving 204 of the response message is used to determine a level
of the user's compliance with the predetermined use criteria. In
particular, the level of compliance determined by the processor
will depend on how quickly the response message is received by the
processor, such that the level of compliance is greater as the
amount of time elapsed between the sending 200 of the request
message and the receipt 204 of the response message is less.
[0080] When the determination whether the user's PUA use is in
compliance with one or more predetermined criteria is based on the
content of the response message, the processor determines whether
the content of the response message complies with predetermined
parameters. In such embodiments, a selected response message,
complying with predetermined parameters, is requested 200 by the
request message communicated to the PUA, and in determining
compliance and/or the level of compliance, the processor compares
the response message received 204 from the PUA with the requested
response. In one illustrative embodiment, the request message
communicated 200 to the PUA comprises a request for the user's
password or for a particular code, such as a user' screen name or
real name, and the response message received 204 in response to the
request message is compared by the processor to pre-stored data,
such as a password, code, screen name or real name stored in a
database, to determine 205 whether the use of the PUA is in
compliance with the predetermined criteria. If the received
response message matches the stored message, i.e. password, a name
(such as a screen name selected by the user or the user's real
name) or a code, stored in the database, then the processor
determines that the user is in compliance with the predetermined
criteria. By requesting a selected response message, such as a
password, name or code, the monitoring system is capable not only
of confirming that the PUA is being carried and/or used, but also
of confirming that the PUA is being carried and/or used by a
specific user.
[0081] In certain embodiments, in addition to or instead of other
requested information, the requested response comprises information
from the user, such as what the user is doing when the message is
received or at other times, the user's location or locations at
various times, media or products to which the user has been
exposed, has purchased or used, or plans to purchase or use, the
user's beliefs and/or the user's opinions. In certain embodiments,
in addition to or instead of other requested information, the
requested response comprises information concerning an operational
state of the PUA (for example, as indicated thereby or as
determined by the user), whether and/or when the user performed
some action (such as docking or recharging the PUA), and/or whether
and/or how the user is carrying the PUA.
[0082] In certain embodiments, the processor determines 205 the
level of the PUA user's compliance based on the content of the
message. In this illustrative embodiment, the response message
received 204 is compared with stored data, such as a password, name
or code stored in the database, and determines the level of
compliance based on how closely the response message matches with
the stored data. In certain ones of such embodiments, a first, or
highest, level of compliance is determined if the response message
matches the stored message, a second level of compliance, which is
lower than the first level, is determined if the response message
does not match the stored message, and a third, or lowest, level of
compliance is determined if no response message is received 204
from the PUA. In some embodiments, a plurality of different
intermediate levels of compliance may be determined instead of the
second level of compliance, if a response message is received but
does not match the stored message. In such embodiments, the level
determined is based on the extent of similarity between the
response message and the pre-stored data. Thus, for example, the
intermediate level of compliance will be higher in a case where the
response message received 204 from the PUA differs from the stored
message by only one character than in a case where the response
message received from the PUA is completely different from the
stored message.
[0083] In certain embodiments, the user's compliance and/or level
of compliance is determined not only based on the content of the
response message but also on the time of receipt of the response
message. In certain ones of such embodiments, the user's compliance
will depend on whether the response message matches with the stored
data, as well as on how quickly the response message is received
from the PUA. In certain ones of such embodiments, the highest
level of compliance is determined if the response message received
from the PUA matches the stored data, and if the time elapsed
between the sending of the request message to the PUA and the
receipt of the response message is less than a selected time. If
the response message does not match the stored data and/or the time
elapsed between the sending of the request message and the receipt
of the response message is greater than the selected time, then the
level of compliance determined 205 is selected at a level
intermediate a highest level of compliance and a lowest level. If
no response message is received from the PUA, then the lowest level
of compliance, or non-compliance is determined by the monitoring
system.
[0084] In some embodiments, the monitoring system also determines
and/or provides 206 a reward to the user for complying with
predetermined criteria 206 and/or sends a message to the user
indicating at least one of the user's compliance, the level of
compliance and the reward to the user 208. In particular, after the
monitoring system determines whether the PUA use complies with the
predetermined use criteria and/or the level of the user's
compliance, the monitoring system proceeds to determine and/or
provide 206 a reward to the user of the PUA. The system then
communicates 208 a message to the user indicating the user's
compliance, level of compliance and/or the reward earned by the
user. These actions performed by the monitoring system are similar
to those (106 and 108) described above with respect to FIG. 2A, and
thus a detailed description thereof is omitted. As in the
embodiments described with respect to FIG. 2A, the determination
and/or provision 206 of the reward and the communication 208 of the
message indicating compliance, level of compliance and/or the
reward are optional. Moreover, as in the embodiments described with
respect to FIG. 2A, in certain embodiments, the determination
and/or provision of the reward is performed without communicating
the message to the user, while in other embodiments, the
communication 208 of the message is performed without determining
and/or providing 206 the reward.
[0085] In certain embodiments of monitoring methods and systems,
the monitoring system monitors one or more parameters, such as
biometric parameters, sounds external to a research device, an
impact of the research device with another object, motion of the
research device, proximity of the research device to the person of
a user, pressure applied to the research device, recharging of the
research device, its power capacity, docking of the research
device, data input (e.g., messages) to the research device,
location of the research device and/or changes in the research
device's location, to determine whether the use of the research
device is in compliance with at least one predetermined criterion.
In one illustrative embodiment, the monitoring system produces
monitored data by monitoring at least one of a user's heart
activity, a user's brain activity, a user's breathing activity, a
user's pulse, a user's blood oxygenation, a user's borborygmus
(gastrointestinal noise), a user's gait, a user's voice, a user's
key, keypad or keyboard usage characteristics (e.g., keystroke
recognition), a user's vascular pattern, a user's facial or ear
patterns, a user's signature, a user's fingerprint, a user's
handprint or hand geometry, a user's retinal or iris patterns, a
user's airborne biochemical indicators (sometimes referred to as a
user's "smellprint"), a user's muscular activity, a user's body
temperature, sounds external to the research device, motion of the
research device, pressure applied to the research device,
recharging of the research device, docking of the research device,
its power capacity, an impact of the research device with another
object, data input to the research device by a user, location of
the research device and a change in a location of the research
device, and determines whether use of the research device by the
user is in accordance with at least one predetermined criterion
based on the monitored data. The operations of the monitoring
system in these illustrative embodiments to monitor use of a PUA
are shown in FIG. 3A. It will be appreciated that the embodiment of
FIG. 3A is also applicable to a research device that is not a
PUA.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 3A, at least one of a biometric parameter
222, proximity of the PUA to the person of a user, external sounds
224, PUA location, PUA location change 226, data input 228 and
impact of the PUA with another object, pressure applied to the PUA,
power capacity, motion, recharging, docking 230 are monitored to
produce monitored data. When one or more biometric parameters is
monitored 222, these parameters include, but are not limited to,
one or more of the user's heart activity, the user's brain
activity, the user's breathing activity, the user's pulse, the
user's blood oxygenation, the user's borborygmus, the user's gait,
the user's key, keypad or keyboard usage characteristics, the
user's voice, the user's fingerprint, the user's handprint or hand
geometry, the user's retinal or iris patterns, the user's
smellprint, a vascular pattern of the user, the user's facial or
ear patterns, a pattern of muscle activity of the user, the user's
signature, and the user's body temperature.
[0087] Referring again to FIG. 1B, the monitoring of the biometric
parameters 222, external sounds, PUA location, PUA location changes
226, data input 228 and/or impact of the PUA with another object,
pressure applied to the PUA, motion of the PUA, recharging, power
capacity, docking 230 is performed in the PUA 2 by the
sensor/detector 13 in cooperation with a processor of the PUA (not
shown for purposes of simplicity and clarity). As mentioned above,
the sensor/detector 13 in certain embodiments includes a plurality
of sensors and/or detectors which monitor a plurality of
parameters. In the embodiments in which the sensor/detector 13
monitors one or more biometric parameters of the PUA user 222, the
sensor/detector 13 comprises one or more of a heart monitor for
monitoring heart activity of the user, an EEG monitor for
monitoring the user's brain activity, a breathing monitor for
monitoring the user's breathing activity including, but not limited
to, the user's breathing rate, a pulse rate monitor, a pulse
oximeter, a sound detector for monitoring the user's borborygmus
and/or the user's voice, a gait sensor and/or a gait analyzer for
detecting data representing the user's gait, such as a motion
sensor or accelerometer (which may also be used to monitor muscle
activity), a video camera for use in detecting motion based on
changes to its output image signal over time, a temperature sensor
for monitoring the user's temperature, an electrode or electrodes
for picking up EKG and/or EEG signals, and a fingerprint or
handprint scanner for detecting the user's fingerprint or
handprint. Where the user's retinal or iris patterns are monitored,
sensor/detector 13 comprises a low-intensity light source, for
scanning, detecting or otherwise sensing the retinal or iris
patterns of the user. Where the user's hand geometry is detected,
sensor/detector 13 comprises a device configured with an optical
sensor or other imaging device to capture predetermined parameters
of the user's hand, such as hand shape, finger length, finger
thickness, finger curvature and/or any portion thereof. Where the
user's smellprint is detected, sensor/detector 13 comprises an
electronic sensor, a chemical sensor, and/or an electronic or
chemical sensor configured as an array of chemical sensors, wherein
each chemical sensor may detect a specific odorant or other
biochemical indicator. Where a vascular pattern of the user is
detected, sensor/detector 13 comprises an optical or other radiant
energy scanning or imaging device for detecting a vascular pattern
or other tissue structure, or blood flow or pressure characteristic
of the user's hand or other body part. Where the user's facial or
ear patterns are detected, the sensor/detector 13 comprises a video
camera, optical scanner or other device sufficient to recognize one
or more facial features or one or more features of the user's ear
or other body part. In certain ones of these embodiments, the
sensor/detector 13 is mounted in or on the PUA 2, while in others
the sensor/detector 13 is arranged separately from the PUA 2 and
communicates therewith via a cable or via an RF, inductive,
acoustic, infrared or other wireless link.
[0088] In the embodiments in which the sensor/detector 13 of the
PUA 2 monitors sounds external to the PUA 224, the sensor/detector
13 comprises an acoustic sensor such as a microphone or any other
suitable sound detector for detecting external sounds. In certain
embodiments, the sensor/detector 13, which monitors external
sounds, cooperates with the processor for analyzing the detected
external sounds. The external sounds detected by the
sensor/detector 13 include, but are not limited to, environmental
noise, rubbing of the PUA 2 against the user's clothing or other
external objects, vehicle sounds (such as engine noise and sounds
characteristic of opening and closing car doors), the user's voice
print, dropping of the PUA, average ambient noise level, and the
like.
[0089] In certain ones of the embodiments in which the
sensor/detector 13 monitors the user's data input 228 (e.g.,
messages or inputs to control a diverse operation of the PUA, such
as to make use of an application running thereon, like a game), the
sensor/detector 13 comprises a pressure sensor for sensing pressure
applied to the message input by the user. Alternatively or in
addition, the sensor/detector 13 comprises a utility, such as a key
logger, running on the processor of the PUA to determine and record
its usage.
[0090] In the embodiments in which location change is being
monitored 226, the sensor/detector 13 directly or indirectly
detects the change in the PUA's location. Direct detection of the
PUA's location is accomplished by detecting the location of the PUA
and the change in PUA's location over time. In this case, the
sensor/detector 13 comprises a satellite location system, such as a
GPS receiver, an ultra wideband location detector, a cellular
telephone location detector, an angle of arrival location detector,
a time difference of arrival location detector, an enhanced signal
strength location detector, a location fingerprinting location
detector, an inertial location monitor, a short range location
signal receiver or any other suitable location detector. The same
means can also be employed to determine the PUA's location.
Indirect detection of the PUA's location change is accomplished by
detecting a predetermined parameter which is directly or indirectly
related to the location of the PUA and determining from variations
in the predetermined parameter whether a change in the location of
the PUA has occurred. One of such predetermined parameters detected
by the sensor/detector 13 can be variations in the strength of a RF
signal received by the PUA, and in such case, the sensor/detector
13 comprises a RF signal receiver. Where location change data is
available such data is used in certain embodiments to determine
whether and when the PUA was or is being carried.
[0091] In embodiments in which the sensor/detector 13 monitors the
impact of the PUA 2 with another object 230, the sensor/detector 13
comprises an impact detector for measuring pre-determined levels of
impact of the PUA 2 with other objects. In certain embodiments, the
sensor/detector 13 comprises an accelerometer for detecting a
relatively large acceleration upon impact of the PUA 2 with another
object.
[0092] In embodiments where pressure applied to the PUA is
monitored, a pressure sensor is placed on an enclosure of the PUA
or mechanically coupled therewith to receive force applied to such
enclosure. In certain ones of such embodiments, the magnitude of
the pressure as it varies over time and/or with location on the
enclosure are analyzed to determine if the PUA is being or was
carried and/or the manner in which it was used and/or the event of
non-use.
[0093] In certain embodiments where motion of the PUA is monitored,
a video camera of the PUA is used as a motion sensor. In certain
ones of such embodiments, changes in the image data provided at the
output of the video camera (either the entire image or one or more
portions thereof) are processed to determine movement or an extent
of movement of the image over time to detect that the PUA is being
moved about, either by translation or rotation. Techniques for
producing motion vectors indicating motion of an image or an extent
of such motion are well known in the art, and are used in certain
embodiments herein to evaluate whether the PUA is moving and/or the
extent of such movement. In certain ones of such embodiments,
changes in the light intensity or color composition of the image
data output by the video camera (either the entire image or one or
more portions thereof) over time are used to detect motion of the
PUA. In certain embodiments where motion of the PUA is monitored, a
light sensitive device, such as a light sensitive diode of the PUA,
is used as a motion sensor. Changes in the output of the light
sensitive device over time that characterize movement serve to
indicate that the PUA is being carried.
[0094] In certain embodiments, the one or more parameters also
include power remaining in the PUA, recharging of the PUA and/or
the event of docking of the PUA by coupling the PUA with the
docking station, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 1C. In such
embodiments, the monitoring system produces monitored data by
monitoring the power remaining in the PUA and/or by monitoring the
docking of the PUA at the docking station. In the embodiments in
which the docking of the PUA is monitored, the monitoring system
monitors the length of time the PUA was coupled with the docking
station, the time period during which the PUA was coupled with the
docking station, a time at which the PUA is docked, a time at which
the PUA was undocked, whether or not the PUA is coupled with the
docking station and/or the length of time passed since the PUA was
last docked at the docking station.
[0095] In certain embodiments, monitored data comprises data which
can be used to confirm the identity of the PUA user. For example,
if one or more biometric parameters of the user are monitored by
the sensor/detector, the monitored data includes data indicating or
relating to one or more of the user's heart rate or other heart
activity or parameter, EEG, blood oxygenation, breathing rate or
other breathing activity or parameter, borborygmus, gait, voice,
voice analysis, key, keypad or keyboard usage characteristics,
fingerprints, handprints, hand geometry, pulse, retinal or iris
patterns, olfactory characteristics or other biochemical
indicators, patterns of muscular activity, vascular patterns,
facial or ear patterns, signature, and/or body temperature detected
once or a plurality of times over a predetermined period of time.
In certain embodiments, the user is identified by a signal from
signal emitter 14. In another example, if the PUA location change
is being monitored, then monitored data can include data relating
to the specific locations or changes in location of the PUA and/or
relating to the specific RF signal strengths of the PUA detected
one or a plurality of times over a predetermined period of
time.
[0096] Referring now back to FIG. 3A, the monitored data produced
by monitoring at least one of a user's biometric parameters,
external sounds, PUA location or location change, data input,
pressure applied to the PUA, impact of a PUA with another object, a
signal from signal emitter 14, PUA motion, PUA power level,
recharging and docking of the PUA at the docking station is used to
determine whether the user's use of the PUA is in compliance with
the predetermined criteria and/or the user's level of compliance
242. In certain embodiments, the determination of compliance and/or
level of compliance is performed in the PUA by its processor, while
in other embodiments, the monitored data produced in the PUA is
communicated to the processor 5 via its communications and the
processor 5 then determines the user's compliance and/or level of
compliance.
[0097] In certain embodiments, the determination of compliance
and/or level of compliance is performed based on the detection or
non-detection of one or more monitored parameters, as indicated by
monitored data, to determine whether the PUA was carried and/or was
charged at the monitoring times and/or whether the PUA was docked
and/or undocked at predetermined times or time periods. In certain
embodiments in which, as mentioned above, monitored data includes
more specific or extensive data, the determination of compliance
and/or level of compliance includes not only a determination
whether the PUA was carried but also a confirmation that the PUA
was carried by a specific user. In such embodiments, the compliance
determination is performed by comparing the monitored data with
pre-stored data relating to the specific user to determine whether
the PUA was carried and whether the user carrying the PUA was the
specific user. In particular, if the monitored data corresponds to
the stored data for the specific user, then it is determined that
the user carrying the PUA was the specific user. However, if the
monitored data does not correspond to the stored data for the
specific user, then it is determined that the user carrying the PUA
was not the specific user. The determination whether the PUA use is
in compliance with the predetermined criteria and/or the
determination of the level of the user's compliance is then based
on the determinations whether the PUA was carried and whether the
user carrying the PUA was the specific user.
[0098] In certain embodiments, the PUA use is determined to be in
compliance with the predetermined criteria if it is determined that
the PUA was carried by the specific user and not in compliance if
it is determined that the PUA was not carried. Depending on
requirements of the monitoring systems and the predetermined
criteria, in some embodiments the PUA use is determined to be in
compliance, or in partial compliance, if it is determined that the
PUA was carried by someone other than the specific user. However,
in other embodiments, the monitoring system determines that the PUA
use does not comply with the predetermined criteria if it is
determined that the PUA was carried by someone other than the
specific user.
[0099] With respect to the determination of the level of
compliance, in certain embodiments, the highest level of compliance
is determined if it is determined that the PUA was being carried by
the specific user and the lowest level of compliance is determined
if it is determined that the PUA was not carried. In certain
embodiments, if the PUA was carried by someone other than the
specific user at all or some of the monitoring times, then an
intermediate level of compliance that is lower than the highest
level and higher than the lowest level is determined. The value of
the intermediate compliance level may depend on whether the PUA was
carried by someone other than the specific user at all or some of
the times and the number of times that it is determined that the
PUA was carried by someone other than the specific user, if a
plurality of determinations are made.
[0100] As shown in FIG. 3A, the user of the PUA may optionally be
rewarded for the user's compliance with the predetermined use
criteria. As discussed above, providing a reward to the user in
return for the compliant use of the PUA provides an incentive for
the user to comply with the PUA use requirements in the future. In
the embodiments where the monitoring system provides a reward to
the user, the reward to the user is determined 244 after the
determination of compliance and/or level of compliance 242 is made.
The determination of the reward is based on whether the user has
complied with the predetermined use criteria and/or based on the
level of user's compliance, and can be performed in the PUA or in
the processor. As mentioned above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B,
the reward to the user can include cash, credit, points usable to
make purchases, services or other benefit to the user.
[0101] As also shown in FIG. 3A, in certain embodiments, the
monitoring system optionally communicates a message to the PUA user
indicating compliance and/or level of compliance and/or a reward
earned by the user 246. In these embodiments, the message can be in
the form of a telephone call, a text message, a voice mail, a voice
message, an image, an email, a web page, a paper notification or
any other suitable indication to the user. In certain ones of such
embodiments, a light is illuminated or blinks, or a sound is
emitted (similar to a voice mail notification) at intervals (such
as an interval from one to five minutes) to indicate compliance or
non-compliance. Where the light or sound notification indicates
non-compliance, its intensity and/or frequency increases over time
to gain the user's attention. Referring now to FIG. 1B, if the
determination of compliance, level of compliance and/or reward is
performed by the processor of the PUA, the message indicating
compliance, level of compliance and/or reward can be communicated
to the user by the PUA. If, on the other hand, the determination of
compliance, level of compliance and/or reward is performed by the
processor 5, the message can be communicated to the PUA to provide
the message to the user, or the message can be communicated to the
user by another means.
[0102] As discussed above, the determination of a reward to the
user 244 and the communication of a message to the user 246 are
optional. Thus, it is understood that the monitoring system may
perform both, none or only one of these actions, depending on the
arrangement of the PUA and the requirements of the monitoring
system.
[0103] In certain other embodiments, methods and systems for
monitoring use by a user of a research device comprise producing
monitored data by monitoring one or more parameters, producing
identification data identifying the user based on the monitored
data and determining, based on the identification data, whether the
research device is being used by the user in accordance with at
least one predetermined use criterion. FIG. 3B illustrates the
actions performed by the monitoring system of this embodiment
wherein the research device comprises a PUA, but it will be
appreciated the monitoring system is also applicable to embodiments
in which the research device does not comprise a PUA. In FIG. 3B,
actions performed by the monitoring system similar to those
illustrated in FIG. 3A are indicated by the same reference numbers
as in FIG. 3A.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 3B, the monitoring system monitors at least
one of a user's biometric parameter 222, external sounds, a
presence indication signal, a personal identification signal 224,
PUA location, PUA location change 226, data input to the PUA 228
and impact of the PUA with another object, motion of the PUA,
pressure applied to the PUA 230. As discussed herein above with
respect to FIG. 3A and referring to FIG. 1B, the monitoring is
performed by the sensor/detector 13 in the PUA 2, and as a result
of this monitoring, monitored data relating to the parameters
monitored is provided. In certain ones of these embodiments, the
monitor stores one or more signatures, feature sets or other
characteristic data of the panelist assigned to the PUA (and thus
the person who should be its sole user) to which the monitored data
is compared to determine if the data match. This comparison
provides an indication whether the PUA in fact is being carried
and/or used by the correct user. If, for example, the monitoring
system monitors the sounds external to the PUA, the monitored data
will include not only an indication that an external sound was
detected, but also data relating to the sound that was detected,
such as analysis of the detected sound, the frequency of the
detected sound, voice identification data and/or other data
relating to the detected sound, from which a sound signature or
feature set can be produced for comparison against a stored
signature or feature set to assess whether the PUA is in the
possession of the correct user. In certain embodiments, the
monitored data is used to determine whether the PUA is being
carried. Thus, for example, if the monitoring system monitors the
location change of the PUA, the monitored data will include data
not only indicating a change in the PUA's location, it may be
inferred that the monitor is in the possession of a user who is
carrying it about.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 3B, the monitored data produced by
monitoring one or more of the above-mentioned parameters is used to
provide identification data which is, in turn, used to identify the
user of the PUA 251. In certain embodiments, the identification
data is provided by the PUA and/or the docking station, while in
other embodiments, the monitored data is communicated from the PUA
to the processor 5 via the communications and the processor 5
provides the identification data based on the monitored data. In
certain embodiments, the identification data is provided by
comparing the monitored data with pre-stored data relating to at
least one PUA user so as to determine the identity of the PUA user
and/or to confirm that the PUA user is the specific user
corresponding to the pre-stored data. The pre-stored data may be
based on data relating to the PUA user obtained from the specific
user in advance, or may be based on previously collected monitored
data. By providing the identification data relating to the identity
of the user, the monitoring system is adapted to confirm that a
specific person, and not someone else, is carrying and/or using the
PUA.
[0106] When the identification data is produced in 251, the
monitoring system determines whether the use of the PUA is in
compliance with at least one predetermined use criterion and/or the
level of the user's compliance 242. This determination 242 is made
based on the identification data identifying the user. In some
embodiments, in which the identification data indicates that the
person carrying and/or using the PUA is the corresponding, or
correct, PUA user, the monitoring system determines in 242 that the
PUA user has complied with at least one predetermined use
criterion. The level of the user's compliance can be determined
based on whether or not the PUA was carried and/or used in
accordance with the predetermined criteria and based on whether or
not identification data indicates that the person carrying and/or
using the PUA matches the corresponding user for the PUA, as well
as based on the frequency of compliant use indications. Thus, for
example, a first level of compliance is determined if the
identification data indicates that the PUA was carried by the user
corresponding to the specific user for the PUA, a second level of
compliance which is lower than the first level of compliance is
determined if the identification data indicates that the PUA was
carried by a user who does not correspond to the specific user of
the PUA and a third level of compliance, which is lower than both
the first and the second levels, is determined if the
identification data indicates that the PUA was not carried by any
user. It is understood that these compliance levels are
illustrative and that the number of levels and how these levels are
determined may vary.
[0107] As in FIG. 3A, in certain embodiments, the monitoring system
provides a reward to the user for complying with the predetermined
criteria 244 and/or sends a message to the user indicating at least
one of compliance, level of compliance and the reward 246. In
particular, after the user's determination of compliance and the
level of compliance, in certain embodiments the monitoring system
determines a reward to the user of the PUA 244 and/or communicates
a message to the user indicating the user's compliance, level of
compliance and/or the reward to the user 246. These actions are
similar to those described above with respect to FIG. 3A, and also
to 108 and 110 described above with respect to FIG. 2A and to 206
and 208 described above with respect to FIG. 2B. Accordingly, a
detailed description thereof is unnecessary.
[0108] In certain embodiments described herein, the methods and
systems for monitoring use of a research device in accordance with
at least one predetermined use criterion comprise actively
monitoring use of the research device by the user by communicating
a message to the user requesting a response and passively
monitoring use of the research device by the user by sensing at
least one parameter indicating whether the research device is being
used in accordance with the at least one predetermined criterion.
FIG. 4 illustrates the actions performed by the monitoring system
in these embodiments where the research device comprises a PUA. In
other embodiments, the monitoring system monitors the use of a
research device that does not comprise a PUA.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 4, the monitoring system actively and
passively monitors the use of the PUA. Active monitoring 260 of the
PUA use includes requesting an action by the user to show
compliance with at least one predetermined use criterion and, in
particular, comprises communicating a request message to the user
requesting a response to the request message. Such active
monitoring is similar to the actions 100, 102 and 104 of the
monitoring system described with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B herein
above, and detailed descriptions thereof are unnecessary.
[0110] Unlike active monitoring 260, passive monitoring 262 does
not request any specific action to be performed by the user so as
to indicate compliance with the PUA use criteria, and comprises
sensing or detecting one or more parameters that indicate whether
the PUA is being used in compliance with at least one predetermined
criterion. Referring to FIG. 1B, the sensing or detecting is
performed in the PUA 2 by the sensor/detector 13, and includes, but
is not limited to, one or more of sensing a biometric parameter of
the user, detecting a presence indication signal or a personal
identification signal, sensing external sounds, detecting location
of the PUA, detecting location change of the PUA, detecting motion
of the PUA, detecting data input, sensing pressure applied to the
PUA, detecting recharging, power capacity and/or docking of the PUA
and detecting impact of the PUA with another object. These passive
monitoring activities are similar to those described herein above
with respect to FIGS. 3A and 3B, and therefore detailed description
thereof is unnecessary.
[0111] In certain embodiments, the PUA carries out passive
monitoring to produce passively monitored data, the monitoring
system communicates a request message to the PUA, the PUA
automatically produces a response including and/or based on the
passively monitored data and communicates the response to the
monitoring system and the monitoring system determines whether the
use of the PUA complies with at least one predetermined use
criterion based on the passively monitored data. In certain ones of
such embodiments, the PUA communicates its response at a time when
the PUA is to be carried in accordance with a predetermined
schedule. In certain ones of such embodiments, the monitoring
system communicates the request at a time when the PUA is to be
carried in accordance with a predetermined schedule.
[0112] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a cellular telephone 20
modified to carry out a research operation. The cellular telephone
20 comprises a processor 30 that is operative to exercise overall
control and to process audio and other data for transmission or
reception and communications 40 coupled to the processor 30 and
operative under the control of processor 30 to perform those
functions required for establishing and maintaining a two-way
wireless communication link with a respective cell of a cellular
telephone network. In certain embodiments, processor 30 also is
operative to execute applications ancillary or unrelated to the
conduct of cellular telephone communications, such as applications
serving to download audio and/or video data to be reproduced by
cellular telephone 20, e-mail clients and applications enabling the
user to play games using the cellular telephone 20. In certain
embodiments, processor 30 comprises two or more processing devices,
such as a first processing device (such as a digital signal
processor) that processes audio, and a second processing device
that exercises overall control over operation of the cellular
telephone 20. In certain embodiments, processor 30 employs a single
processing device. In certain embodiments, some or all of the
functions of processor 30 are implemented by hardwired
circuitry.
[0113] Cellular telephone 20 further comprises storage 50 coupled
with processor 30 and operative to store data as needed. In certain
embodiments, storage 50 comprises a single storage device, while in
others it comprises multiple storage devices. In certain
embodiments, a single device implements certain functions of both
processor 30 and storage 50.
[0114] In addition, cellular telephone 20 comprises a microphone 60
coupled with processor 30 to transduce the user's voice to an
electrical signal which it supplies to processor 30 for encoding,
and a speaker and/or earphone 70 coupled with processor 30 to
convert received audio from processor 30 to an acoustic output to
be heard by the user. Cellular telephone 20 also includes a user
input 80 coupled with processor 30, such as a keypad, to enter
telephone numbers and other control data, as well as a display 90
coupled with processor 30 to provide data visually to the user
under the control of processor 30.
[0115] In certain embodiments, the cellular telephone 20 provides
additional functions and/or comprises additional elements. In
certain ones of such embodiments, the cellular telephone 20
provides e-mail, text messaging and/or web access through its
wireless communications capabilities, providing access to media and
other content. For example, Internet access by the cellular
telephone 20 enables access to video and/or audio content that can
be reproduced by the cellular telephone for the user, such as
songs, video on demand, video clips and streaming media. In certain
embodiments, storage 50 stores software providing audio and/or
video downloading and reproducing functionality, such as iPod.RTM.
software, enabling the user to reproduce audio and/or video content
downloaded from a source, such as a personal computer via
communications 40 or through Internet access via communications
40.
[0116] To enable cellular telephone 20 to gather research data,
namely, data indicating exposure to audio such as programs, music
and advertisements, research software is installed in storage 50 to
control processor 30 to gather such data and communicate it via
communications 40 to a research organization. The research software
in certain embodiments also controls processor 30 to store the data
for subsequent communication
[0117] In certain embodiments, the research software controls the
processor 30 to decode ancillary codes in the transduced audio from
microphone 60 using one or more of the known techniques described
hereinabove, and then to store and/or communicate the decoded data
for use as research data indicating encoded audio to which the user
was exposed. In certain embodiments, the research software controls
the processor 30 to extract a signature from the transduced audio
from microphone 60 using one or more of the known techniques
identified hereinabove, and then to store and/or communicate the
extracted signature data for use as research data to be matched
with reference signatures representing known audio to detect the
audio to which the user was exposed. In certain embodiments, the
research software both decodes ancillary codes in the transduced
audio and extracts signatures therefrom for identifying the audio
to which the user was exposed. In certain embodiments, the research
software controls the processor 30 to store samples of the
transduced audio, either in compressed or uncompressed form for
subsequent processing either to decode ancillary codes therein or
to extract signatures therefrom. In certain ones of these
embodiments, the compressed or uncompressed audio is communicated
to a remote processor for decoding and/or signature extraction.
[0118] Where the cellular telephone 20 possesses functionality to
download and/or reproduce presentation data, in certain
embodiments, research data concerning the usage and/or exposure to
such presentation data as well as audio data received acoustically
by microphone 60, is gathered by cellular telephone 20 in
accordance with the technique illustrated by the functional block
diagram of FIG. 5A. Storage 50 of FIG. 5 implements an audio buffer
54 for audio data gathered with the use of microphone 60. In
certain ones of these embodiments storage 50 implements a buffer 56
for presentation data downloaded and/or reproduced by cellular
telephone 20 to which the user is exposed via speaker and/or
earphone 70 or display 90, or by means of a device coupled with
cellular telephone 20 to receive the data therefrom to present it
to a user. In some of such embodiments, the reproduced data is
obtained from downloaded data, such as songs, web pages or
audio/video data (e.g., movies, television programs, video clips).
In some of such embodiments, the reproduced data is provided from a
device such as a broadcast or satellite radio receiver of the
cellular telephone 20 (not shown for purposes of simplicity and
clarity). In certain ones of these embodiments storage 50
implements a buffer 56 for metadata of presentation data reproduced
by cellular telephone 20 to which the user is exposed via speaker
and/or earphone 70 or display 90, or by means of a device coupled
with cellular telephone 20 to receive the data therefrom to present
it to a user. Such metadata can be, for example, a URL from which
the presentation data was obtained, channel tuning data, program
identification data, an identification of a prerecorded file from
which the data was reproduced, or any data that identifies and/or
characterizes the presentation data, or a source thereof. Where
buffer 56 stores audio data, buffers 54 and 56 store their audio
data (either in the time domain or the frequency domain)
independently of one another. Where buffer 56 stores metadata of
audio data, buffer 54 stores its audio data (either in the time
domain or the frequency domain) and buffer 56 stores its metadata,
each independently of the other.
[0119] Processor 30 separately produces research data 58 from the
contents of each of buffers 54 and 56 which it stores in storage
50. In certain ones of these embodiments, one or both of buffers 54
and 56 is/are implemented as circular buffers storing a
predetermined amount of audio data representing a most recent time
interval thereof as received by microphone 60 and/or reproduced by
speaker and/or earphone 70, or downloaded by cellular telephone 20
for reproduction by a different device coupled with cellular
telephone 20. Processor 30 extracts signatures and/or decodes
ancillary codes in the buffered audio data to produce research
data. Where metadata is received in buffer 56, in certain
embodiments the metadata is used, in whole or in part, as research
data 58, or processed to produce research data 58. The research
data is thus gathered representing exposure and/or usage of audio
data by the user where audio data is received in acoustic form by
the cellular telephone 20 and where presentation data is received
in non-acoustic form (for example, as a cellular telephone
communication, as an electrical signal via a cable from a personal
computer or other device, as a broadcast or satellite signal or
otherwise).
[0120] In certain embodiments, the cellular telephone 20 is
provided with a research data source 96 coupled by a wired or
wireless coupling with processor 30 for use in gathering further or
alternative research data to be communicated to a research
organization. In certain ones of these embodiments, the research
data source 96 comprises a location data producing device or
function providing data indicating a location of the cellular
telephone 20. Various devices appropriate for use as source 96
include a satellite location signal receiver, a terrestrial
location signal receiver, a wireless networking device that
receives location data from a network, an inertial location
monitoring device and a location data producing service provided by
a cellular telephone service provider. In certain embodiments,
research data source 96 comprises a device or function for
monitoring exposure to print media, for determining whether the
user is at home or out of home, for monitoring exposure to
products, exposure to displays (such as outdoor advertising),
presence within or near commercial establishments, or for gathering
research data (such as consumer attitude, preference or opinion
data) through the administration of a survey to the user of the
cellular telephone 20. In certain embodiments, research data source
96 comprises one or more devices for receiving, sensing or
detecting data useful in implementing one or more of the foregoing
functions, other research data gathering functions and/or for
producing data ancillary to functions of gathering, storing and/or
communicating research data, such as data indicating whether the
panelist has complied with predetermined rules governing the
activity or an extent of such compliance. Such devices include, but
are not limited to, motion detectors, accelerometers, temperature
detectors, proximity detectors, satellite positioning signal
receivers, video cameras, image scanners using visible or infra-red
light or other radiant energy, chemical sensors, digital writing
tablets, blood flow sensors, pulse oximeters, pulse monitors, RFID
readers, RF receivers, wireless networking transceivers, wireless
device coupling transceivers, pressure detectors, deformation
detectors, electric field sensors, magnetic field sensors, optical
sensors, electrodes (such as EEG and/or EKG electrodes), audio
sensors, and the like. In certain embodiments, such devices are
supplied in cellular telephones to provide a user-beneficial
function, so that their capabilities can also be employed to gather
research data and/or to gather data indicating whether the panelist
has complied with predetermined use criteria. Such devices include
but are not limited to, microphones, video cameras and satellite
positioning signal receivers.
[0121] In certain embodiments dedicated devices are included in or
with the cellular telephone 20 to gather data for assessing
compliance, such as sensor/detector 13 described above in
connection with FIGS. 1B, 3A and 3B. In certain ones of such
embodiments, sensor/detector 13 comprises a digital writing tablet
that is used to input a digital handwritten signature from the user
to assess whether the cellular telephone 20 is being carried by the
correct person. In accordance with known handwriting identification
techniques, storage 50 stores signature recognition software to
control processor 30 to compare the current user's signature input
by means of the digital writing tablet against a stored template of
the correct user's handwritten signature to determine if there is a
match. Based on the results of the matching process, data is
produced indicating whether the current user's signature matches
the signature represented by the stored template to assess whether
the current user of the cellular telephone 20 is the same as the
panelist who has agreed to carry and use cellular telephone 20 to
gather research data. The template of the panelist's signature is
produced in a training mode of the signature recognition software,
in which the panelist inputs one or more signatures using the
digital writing tablet from which the template is produced by
processor 30 and then stored in storage 50. In certain ones of such
embodiments, the cellular telephone 20 includes a digital writing
tablet to enable a user-beneficial function, such as note taking
and it is then unnecessary to provide a dedicated digital writing
tablet as the sensor/detector 13.
[0122] In certain ones of such embodiments, a voiceprint
recognition technique is used to assess whether the cellular
telephone 20 is being carried by the correct person. In accordance
with known voiceprint recognition techniques, storage 50 stores
voice recognition software to control processor 30 to compare the
current user's voice input by means of the microphone 60 against a
stored voiceprint of the correct user's voice to determine if there
is a match. Based on the results of the matching process, data is
produced indicating whether the current user's voice matches the
voice represented by the stored voiceprint to assess whether the
current user of the cellular telephone 20 is the same as the
panelist who has agreed to carry and use cellular telephone 20 to
gather research data. The voiceprint of the panelist's voice is
produced in a training mode of the voice recognition software, in
which the panelist speaks into microphone 20 to produce data from
which the voiceprint is produced by processor 30 and then stored in
storage 50. Various ones of such embodiments extract the user's
voiceprint under different conditions. In one such embodiment, the
user's voiceprint is extracted when the user places a voice call
using the cellular telephone in response to a request message from
a monitoring system. In other such embodiments, the processor 30
extracts voiceprints continuously from the output of microphone 60,
or at predetermined times or intervals, or when a telephone call is
made using cellular telephone 20 or when the output from microphone
60 indicates that someone may be speaking into it (indicated, for
example by the magnitude of the output, and/or its time and/or
frequency characteristics). The extracted voiceprints are compared
to the stored voiceprint to assess whether the correct person is
using the cellular telephone 20.
[0123] In certain ones of such embodiments, sensor/detector 13
comprises an imagining device, such as a video camera, or other
radiant energy detector, such as a line scanner implemented by
means of a CCD or an array of photodiodes, that is used to input
data representing an image or line scan of a physical feature of
the user, such as an iris, a retina, an image of all or portion of
the user's face, finger, palm, hand or ear to assess whether the
cellular telephone 20 is being carried by the correct person. In
the case of an iris or retinal image, the input data is processed
to extract an iris or retinal pattern code. A facial image is
processed to extract data unique to the user such as a signature or
feature set representing facial bone structure. An image of a
finger, palm or hand is processed to extract a fingerprint or palm
print, or other characteristic data such as hand geometry or tissue
vascular structure. In accordance with known pattern recognition
techniques, storage 50 stores pattern recognition software to
control processor 30 to compare the current user's iris or retinal
pattern code, facial signature or feature set or other
characteristic data input by means of the sensor/detector 13
against a stored pattern code, signature, feature set or other
characteristic data of the correct user, as the case may be, to
determine if there is a match. Such characteristic data may be
stored in storage 50 or in a storage of a separate device, system
or processing facility. Based on the results of the matching
process, data is produced by processor 30 operating under control
of the pattern recognition software to assess whether the current
user of the cellular telephone 20 is the same as the panelist who
has agreed to carry and use cellular telephone 20 to gather
research data. The pattern code, signature, feature set or other
characteristic data of the correct user is produced in a training
mode of the pattern recognition software, in which the appropriate
physical feature of the panelist is imaged or scanned one or more
times using the sensor/detector 13 from which the desired data is
produced by processor 30 and then stored in storage 50. In certain
embodiments the physical feature concerned is scanned or imaged at
a plurality of different orientations to produce the desired data.
In certain ones of the foregoing embodiments, the cellular
telephone 20 includes a digital camera to enable a user-beneficial
function, such as digital photography or video imaging and it is
then unnecessary to provide a dedicated imaging device or scanner
as the sensor/detector 13.
[0124] In certain ones of such embodiments where user input 80
comprises one or more keys, a keyboard dynamics technique is used
to assess whether the cellular telephone 20 is being used by the
correct person. In accordance with known keyboard dynamics
techniques, storage 50 stores keystroke monitoring software to
control processor 30 to collect characteristic keystroke
parameters, such as data indicating how long the user holds down
the keys of input 80, the delay between one keystroke and the next
(known as "latency"), and frequency of using of special keys, such
as a delete key. Still other parameters, such as typing speed and
the manner in which the user employs key combinations (such as
keyboard shortcuts), may be monitored by processor 30. These
parameters are processed in a known manner to produce a feature set
characterizing the user's key usage style which is then compared
against a stored feature set representing the style of the correct
user. Based on the results of this comparison, data is produced
indicating whether the current user's key usage style matches that
of the correct user as represented by the stored feature set to
assess whether the current user of the cellular telephone 20 is the
same as the panelist who has agreed to carry and use cellular
telephone 20 to gather research data. The feature set representing
the usage style of the panelist is produced in a training mode of
the software, in which the panelist makes use of the key or keys of
user input 80 to produce data from which the feature set is
produced by processor 30 and then stored in storage 50.
[0125] In certain ones of such embodiments, sensor/detector 13
comprises a motion sensitive device, such as an accelerometer, that
produces data related to motion of the cellular telephone 20. This
data is used to produce a feature set characterizing motion of the
cellular telephone 20, and thus the gait of the person carrying the
cellular telephone. In accordance with known gait identification
techniques, storage 50 stores pattern recognition software to
control processor 30 to compare the current user's gait feature set
against a stored reference feature set representing the gait of the
correct user to determine if there is a match. Based on the results
of the matching process, data is produced indicating whether the
current user's gait matches the gait represented by the stored
feature set to assess whether the current user of the cellular
telephone 20 is the same as the panelist who has agreed to carry
and use cellular telephone 20 to gather research data. The feature
set of the panelist's gait is produced in a training mode of the
pattern recognition software, in which the panelist walks about
carrying the cellular telephone 20 while the sensor/detector 13
produces data from which processor 30 produces a reference feature
set which it stores in storage 50. In certain ones of such
embodiments, the cellular telephone 20 includes an accelerometer as
an input device to enable a user-beneficial function, such as a
gaming input or scrolling command input, and it is then unnecessary
to provide a dedicated accelerometer as the sensor/detector 13.
[0126] In certain ones of such embodiments, multiple devices and
pattern recognition techniques are employed to produce a more
accurate and reliable identification of the user than is possible
using only one such pattern recognition technique. In certain
embodiments, one or more of such pattern recognition techniques or
other passive data gathering technique is employed to assess when
cellular telephone 20 possibly is not in the possession of the
correct user. Such detection may be based on an amount by which a
monitored feature set differs from a stored feature set
representing a characteristic of the correct user as determined by
processor 30. When the processor 30 produces data indicating that
the cellular telephone 20 might not be in the possession of the
correct user, in certain embodiments either processor 30 controls a
speaker, earphone or visual display of the cellular telephone 20 to
present a message to the user requesting a response from which the
user's identity as the correct user or as a different person may be
determined, or processor 30 sends a message via communications 40
to a monitoring system indicating that such a message should be
presented to the user. In the latter case, the monitoring system
responds to such message from the processor 30 to send a message to
the cellular telephone 20 for presentation to the user to request
an appropriate response from the user from which the user's
identity as the correct user or someone else may be determined,
either by processor 30 or by the monitoring system. The user's
response to such message is used to determine whether the actual
user is the correct user.
[0127] Although various embodiments of the present invention have
been described with reference to a particular arrangement of parts,
features and the like, these are not intended to exhaust all
possible arrangements or features, and indeed many other
embodiments, modifications and variations will be ascertainable to
those of skill in the art.
* * * * *