U.S. patent application number 12/075603 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-25 for method and system for ordering customized cosmetic contact lenses.
Invention is credited to Daniel F. Broderick, Ann T. Foppe, James Santilli, Robert Carey Tucker.
Application Number | 20080235047 12/075603 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22921999 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080235047 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Broderick; Daniel F. ; et
al. |
September 25, 2008 |
Method and system for ordering customized cosmetic contact
lenses
Abstract
A method of configuring and ordering a customized contact lens
for a user. The method includes the steps of displaying a template
eye image to assist the user in visualizing selected options for a
customized contact lens, and displaying a plurality of contact lens
selection options to the user. The information includes a plurality
of selectable lens colors and lens design patterns. The method also
includes the steps of sending an ordering request to order a
contact lens incorporating lens colors and lens design patterns
selected by the user, receiving the ordering request, and
manufacturing a contact lens incorporating the lens colors and lens
design patterns selected by the user.
Inventors: |
Broderick; Daniel F.; (La
Jolla, CA) ; Foppe; Ann T.; (Elmhurst, IL) ;
Santilli; James; (Oak Park, IL) ; Tucker; Robert
Carey; (Arlington Heights, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CIBA VISION CORPORATION;PATENT DEPARTMENT
11460 JOHNS CREEK PARKWAY
DULUTH
GA
30097-1556
US
|
Family ID: |
22921999 |
Appl. No.: |
12/075603 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11443731 |
May 31, 2006 |
7364293 |
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12075603 |
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10792205 |
Mar 3, 2004 |
7083278 |
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11443731 |
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10040106 |
Oct 24, 2001 |
6746120 |
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10792205 |
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60244253 |
Oct 30, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/1.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0601 20130101;
G02C 13/003 20130101; G02C 7/046 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/1 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 99/00 20060101
G06Q099/00; G06Q 30/00 20060101 G06Q030/00 |
Claims
1-53. (canceled)
54. A method of using an intelligent agent to identify fashion
trends to a user, said method comprising the steps of: searching
one or more computer networks; identifying new products for sale on
said network; recognizing new product trends based on said
identification; and presenting the trends to a user.
55. The method of claim 54 wherein the intelligent agent searches
for purchasing activity data; recognizes trends in the purchasing
activity data; and presents the trends to a user.
56. The method of claim 54 wherein the trends are sent to customers
of contact lenses as a service by a seller of contact lenses.
57. A method of employing an intelligent agent to recommend a
cosmetic contact lens to a person, said method comprising the steps
of: assessing data relating to the person's facial characteristics;
accessing a file comprising information relating to types of
cosmetic lenses; incorporating the person's facial characteristics
into a recommendation for a cosmetic contact lens; and recommending
a contact lens to match the person's facial characteristics.
58. The method of claim 57 wherein the recommended contact lens
substantially changes the color of the person's eyes.
59. The method of claim 57 wherein the recommended contact lens
enhances the color of the person's eye's.
60. The method of claim 58 wherein the data as to the person's
facial characteristics is an image of the person.
61. The method of claim 60 wherein the facial characteristics are
selected from a list comprising hair color, skin tone, make-up,
beard color, eyebrow color, eyebrow thickness, eyelash color, and
eyelash thickness.
62. The method of claim 57 wherein the clothes of the person
wandering a particular season are assessed and incorporated into
the recommendation.
63. The method of claim 57 wherein weather or season is assessed
and incorporated into the recommendation.
64-68. (canceled)
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to contact lens fabrication.
In particular, the invention relates to an automated method and
system for providing customized cosmetic contact lenses to
users.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Colored cosmetic contact lenses blend, enhance, or mask the
colored portion of the wearer's iris to change the visible color of
the eye. Such lenses have become widely accepted fashion
accessories, and are even worn by users who do not require
prescription correction of their vision. In fact, such lenses may
be used to add detail to clothing outfits and other fashions such
as Halloween costumes.
[0003] Contact lenses recently have been manufactured with improved
pattern and color integration that greatly enhances the realism of
the resulting colored iris. For example, subtle color differences
may be implemented in multiple, superimposed pattern layers on the
lens. This gives the iris the illusion of depth of color and
improved integration with the wearer's natural eye colors.
[0004] While improved technology has resulted in more realistic
colors in lenses, there has been an increased demand for a wider
variety of colored contact lenses to more accurately reflect the
mood, personality or individual tastes of the wearer. This is
reflected in the increased popularity of "Tattoo" styled lenses
that include printed images on the iris portion. For example, some
tattoo lenses have included an inscription such as the text "2000"
annularly printed on the iris portion of a lens. Other such lenses
have included even opaque iris portions that mask out a portion of
the iris so that the pupil of the eye appears to have a vertical
ellipsoid shape to suggest the iris of a cat.
[0005] Thus, users of prescription contact lenses--or colored-lens
wearers who desire more unique and tailored fashion
accessories--would benefit from the ability to easily customize
cosmetic or corrective contact lenses to suit the individual's
tastes. Furthermore, the ability to customize contact lenses may
provide a wider market for potential colored contact lens wearers
who are unsatisfied with the color options presently available.
[0006] Typically, a contact lens must fit the size and shape of the
user's eye precisely in order for the lens to be safe to wear.
Because of this, contact lenses are typically manufactured in a
wide array of sizes and corrective prescriptions to accommodate a
majority of wearers. For example, the main parameters for selecting
a contact lens for a user includes the lens diameter, the base
curve of the lens and the corrective prescription. The corrective
prescription can include other parameters, such as the amount of
corrective magnification to compensate for myopic or hyperopic
vision, the degree of correction needed for astigmatism, the
presence or absence of bifocal or trifocal areas, or
vision-correcting tinting. Other options, as mentioned above,
include iris colorization patterns or other forms of tinting for
cosmetic use or convenience in handling. Consequently, the large
number of permutations and combinations of these features requires
a lens-care practitioner to keep a large inventory of lenses on
hand. The least-used lens permutation combinations are likely to
remain unused within this inventory.
[0007] Similarly, while a wide range of cosmetic color and pattern
combinations are available in pre-made packages of contact lenses,
the colors and patterns may not be ideally suited for a particular
wearer. For example, the skin color, hair color, and iris color of
a particular user may appear most cosmetically appealing when
accentuated by colored contact lenses having a particular color
shade. While multiple shades of colors are available in pre-made
stock lenses, the user may be required to settle for a close match
of the desired shade instead of an ideal shade if the ideal shade
lies somewhere between available successive shade gradients.
Moreover, corrective prescriptions such as corrective magnification
are available only in stepped increments. For example,
magnification is usually available in increments of + or -0.25
diopter. A patient requiring correction of -2.35 diopter would need
to choose between the inexact correction of either a -2.25 and
-2.50 diopter lens.
[0008] While the advent of the Internet and its many implemented
software routines have greatly increased consumers' ability to
purchase lenses from a wider variety of manufacturers, lens
wearers' choices are still restricted by the limitations of
pre-manufactured lenses.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The method and system of the present invention allows users
to efficiently order uniquely made customized contact lenses. The
method and system may be completely or partially automated, or
implemented on a web server and client environment on the
Internet.
[0010] The invention preferably utilizes customized template images
showing the shape, color and surrounding features of a user's
actual eye so that the user's selected lens parameters may be
reviewed accurately before an order is placed. The template eye
images are preferably obtained by photographic means or by scanning
the patient's eyes. Furthermore, required parameters, such as
corrective prescription, lens diameter and base curve of the lens
may be obtained automatically from a confidential database or
through communications with an approved optometrist or eye care
provider. These parameters may be incorporated into the
template.
[0011] The user's selected lens parameters include an available
palette of iris patterns for use in overlapping, layered
arrangements. Other parameters include a wide array of colors for
use with or without the patterns. The user may also preferably
incorporate computer images or other image information into a
customized lens iris area. The user may preview how the lens will
look on the wearer's eye after each selection compare all
selections at one time, or compare the natural eye colors and
construct an arrangement that suits the wearer's needs, both
cosmetically and medically.
[0012] In one aspect of the present invention, a method of
configuring a customized contact lens for a user is provided. The
method includes the steps of displaying a template eye image to
assist the user in visualizing selected options for a customized
contact lens and displaying a plurality of contact lens selection
options to the user. The information includes a plurality of
selectable lens colors and lens design patterns. The method also
includes the step of sending an ordering request to order a contact
lens. In another embodiment, the lens may incorporate lens colors
and lens design patterns selected by the user, and the method
further may include the steps of receiving the ordering request and
manufacturing a contact lens incorporating the selected lens colors
and lens design patterns.
[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, the method may
include the steps of providing a choice of sample eyes for
selection by the user as a modeling template, selecting one or more
sample eyes as a template eye, selecting a pre-configured pattern
for superposition onto a portion of the template eye, selecting one
or more colors from a pallete of colors for superposition onto
coloring of the selected pattern, and adjusting the pattern and
colors to generate an image of a contact lens in accordance with
the user's selections.
[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, a method may be
provided that includes the steps of displaying a template eye,
allowing the user to modify the appearance of the eye, and deriving
a contact lens pattern that, when worn, modifies the appearance of
an eye according to the intentions of the user.
[0015] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of
configuring a customized contact lens for a user is provided
wherein the user is linked to a computer network interface. The
method includes the steps of providing a plurality of sample eye
templates for selection by the user via the computer network
interface, receiving a request from the user indicating selection
of at least one of the eye templates, providing the user with a
plurality of available colors for incorporation into a portion of
the selected template, receiving a request from the user indicating
selection of at least one of the colors, and providing the user
with an image of the selected eye template incorporating at least
one selected color. After receiving a request from the user to
order at least one contact lens made in accordance with the image
and the template, the method forwards information relating to the
image for fabrication of a contact lens made in accordance with the
image and the template.
[0016] The method may also provide recommendations of suitable or
cosmetically attractive content lenses to the user in accordance
with the person's facial characteristics or estimated cosmetic
effect of the lens.
[0017] The invention may also be embodied in a system for
configuring a customized contact lens for a user. The system
includes means for displaying a template eye image to assist the
user in visualizing selected options for a customized contact lens,
and means for displaying a plurality of contact lens selection
options to the user on the display. Preferably, this information
includes a plurality of selectable lens parameters. Means for
sending a request to order a contact lens incorporating lens
characteristics selected by the user are also included, together
with means for receiving the ordering request and means for
manufacturing a contact lens incorporating the characteristics
selected by the user.
[0018] The invention may further be embodied in a system including
an image input device for obtaining a graphical template eye image
from the user, and a graphical user display in communication with
the device for visualizing the template eye image. The user display
preferably displays one or more selectable lens characteristics in
conjunction with the template eye image. A user interface is linked
to the display for selecting one or more of the selectable lens
characteristics for display, and a server in communication with the
user interface is also provided. The server receives selections of
the lens characteristics from the user interface and incorporates
selected ones of the lens characteristics into a modified template
eye image. A database accessible by the server containing
information relating to the user and the available selectable lens
characteristics is provided, along with a fabrication system in
communication with the server for receiving information relating to
the modified template eye image and manufacturing a contact lens
based on the information.
[0019] As described in more detail herein, the invention includes
the implementation incorporating World Wide Web--enabled search
facilitators to assist users in compiling and utilizing widely
available information from the Internet. Such implementations
include intelligent agents, bots and other user assistants.
[0020] In another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for
tracking consumer preferences for contact lenses. The method
includes the steps of monitoring the activity of at least one
customer, and predicting the future purchasing behavior of
consumers based on such activity. Intelligent agents or mobile
software bots may be employed to track these customer
preferences.
[0021] In another aspect of the invention, a method may be provided
of using an intelligent agent to purchase a contact lens over a
computer network. The intelligent agent may perform one or more
tasks, including receiving one or more requirements related to a
contact lens, searching a computer network for one or more sources
of a contact lenses which satisfies one or more of the consumer's
requirements, and presenting the results of a search to the
consumer.
[0022] In yet another aspect of the invention, a method is provided
of performing a computer-based online purchase of a contact lens.
In this method, a client's computer issues a request and at least
one server computer serves the request. Preferably, an intelligent
agent performs the steps of searching the computer network for a
contact lens having a set of specifications relating to the
request, searching for additional contact lenses having that set of
specifications, comparing the prices of contact lenses found in the
searches, and informing the client computer of the contact lenses
available and the associated prices found in the searches.
[0023] In another aspect of the invention, a method of informing a
customer or potential customer of contact lenses of the
availability of a desired lens is provided. The method includes the
steps of monitoring the web site activity of the customer, and
sending a message to the customer when the customer views a web
site that relates to contact lenses.
[0024] In yet another aspect of the invention, a method of using an
intelligent agent to identify fashion trends is provided. The
method includes the steps of searching one or more computer
networks and identifying new products for sale on the network. The
intelligent agent then recognizes new product trends based on the
identifications made and presents these trends to a user.
[0025] In another aspect of the invention, a method of employing an
intelligent agent to recommend a cosmetic contact lens is provided.
The method includes the steps of assessing data relating to a
person's facial characteristics and accessing a file including
information relating to types of cosmetic contact lenses. Then, the
person's facial characteristics are incorporated into a
recommendation for a cosmetic contact lens, and a recommendation is
made to the person.
[0026] Advantages of the present invention will become readily
apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description
of the preferred embodiments of the invention which have been shown
and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the
invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its
details are capable of modifications in various respects.
Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as
illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a contact lens having a dotted color
pattern similar to that shown in the prior art;
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates a prior art color pattern overlay for a
contact lens for an inner iris portion;
[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a prior art color pattern overlay for a
contact lens for an outer iris portion;
[0030] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0031] FIG. 5 is systematic diagram illustrating a portion of an
embodiment of the present invention at a client location;
[0032] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a first embodiment of an eye
template as utilized in the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a second embodiment of an eye
template as utilized in the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a portion of the
embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram showing an overview of selection
routines utilized in embodiments of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a routine that enables a method
of ordering a customized contact lens in accordance with present
invention;
[0037] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a routine for selecting an eye
template as utilized in an embodiment of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of a routine for selecting pattern
overlays for contact lenses;
[0039] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a routine for selecting color
options for the pattern overlays of FIG. 12; and
[0040] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an overview of the
environment that may be utilized by a "bot" program that may be
implemented into the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE
INVENTION
I. Cosmetic Contact Lens Configurations
[0041] A. Printed Patterns
[0042] The present invention relates to the ordering and
manufacture of prescription contact lenses. Contact lenses made in
accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention disclosed
may be manufactured as shown in Knapp U.S. Pat. No. 4,582,402,
which is incorporated herein by reference. The '402 patent
discloses prior art colored hydrophilic contact lenses.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, a prior art contact lens 110 includes a
non-opaque pupil section 120 in the center of the lens 110. An
annular iris section 121 surrounds the pupil section 20. For most
hydrophilic contact lenses, a peripheral rim section 122 surrounds
the iris section 121. In colored contact lenses, a colored, opaque,
intermittent pattern is printed on the iris section 121, as shown.
The non-opaque or clear areas of the iris section 121 appear white
in FIG. 1. The single-layered pattern elements shown in the prior
art of preferably overlapping dots are printed onto the contact
lens 110. The density and sizes of the dots vary depending on their
location relative to border areas such as the iris area 121 or the
peripheral rim section 122.
[0044] B. Overlapping Patterns
[0045] While the above patterns shown in FIG. 1 have been used on
colored contact lenses that appear to change the visible color of
the wearer's iris, a more natural-looking and cosmetically
acceptable iris color results when the lens incorporates multiple
layers of irregular printed patterns having varying or contrasting
color shades. The combination of these pattern overlays results in
a coloring effect having depth, which is closer to the natural look
of the human iris.
[0046] An exemplary description of the multiple patterns and colors
that may be arranged in overlapping fashion to produce a more
realistic lens is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,414,477 to Jahnke and
owned by the Wesley-Jessen Corp., which is the assignee of the
present application. The disclosure of the '477 patent is
incorporated by reference into the present application. FIGS. 2 and
3 herein, which are taken from the prior art '477 patent,
illustrate these overlapping patterns. As shown in FIG. 2, a first
pattern element having a first shaded color is preferably located
on the inner portion of the iris section 221. A jagged border is
located on the annular portion in the outside of the pattern
elements 210 and comprises spiked portions 224, valley portions 225
as shown. The pattern elements of FIG. 2 may be overlapped so that
the center of the pattern element 310 is aligned over the center
323 of the pattern element 210 of FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 3, the
annular region 330 of the pattern element 310 contains a jagged
border portion. Preferably, the pattern element 310 of FIG. 3 is
colored a different or contrasting shade from that of the pattern
element 210 of FIG. 2. When the two pattern elements are overlapped
in this fashion, a depth of color and realism is achieved.
II. Custom Lens Ordering System Configuration
[0047] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an overview of the
method and system of a first embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 4, a client 420 and a server 430 operate via a
communications network 440. The communications network may be a
land-based telephone network, a conventional LAN network
environment or the Internet. The client 420 preferably includes a
user interface 450 located at the client location 452. In the
preferred embodiments, the server 430 is located remotely from the
client location 452. Preferably, the server 430 is in turn
preferably linked via a communications link 440 a to a prescription
verification server 454.
[0048] Preferably, the server 430 is linked via the communications
network 440 to a manufacturing facility 456. Thus, the server 430,
the manufacturing server 456 and the prescription verification
server 454 may be located remotely from each other or at the same
location. Preferably, the manufacturing location 460 includes
server 456. Customized contact lenses fabricated to the client's
specifications may be produced at the manufacturer location 460 as
shown. Using conventional delivery methods 480, the finished
customized lenses may then be delivered back to the client
location.
[0049] Thus, in the preferred embodiments of the system 400 of the
present invention, a user 410 at the client location 452 may
specify customized contact lens parameters by using a user
interface 450 to select customization parameters for client 420 via
the processing server 430. The processing server 430 checks various
databases to verify client and user information and checks the
prescription verification server 454. Once the proper approval
verification is obtained by the server 430, the order for the
customized contact lenses is sent via the network connection 440b
to the manufacturing server 456 at the manufacturer location 460.
The lenses are fabricated at the location 460, and the finished
customized lenses are delivered back to the client location
452.
[0050] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of system components preferably
present at the client location 452 of FIG. 4 in an embodiment of
the invention. As shown in FIG. 5, a user 510 may use a plurality
of user interface means to provide an active rendering of the
customized contact lenses desired before committing the lenses for
fabrication. A primary user interface 520 is preferably provided
that includes a client system terminal 530 linked to a visual
display 532. The client 530 preferably comprises a personal
computer such as a Microsoft Windows-based PC having a local hard
drive, microprocessor, and resident memory capacity. Of course,
those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of
terminals may be utilized for the client 530, such as Windows
NT.RTM.-based terminals, UNIX-based terminals, or Apple
Macintosh.RTM. systems. Palm.RTM.-based handheld computers, or
handheld computers running other operating systems, may be
particularly useful in conjunction with the client 530 or for use
as the client 530. The visual display 532 may be a conventional CRT
video monitor, preferably with the capacity to show a wide range of
accurate colors at high-resolution. Such monitors are also
well-known in the art.
[0051] Preferably, the client 530 includes a network interface link
534 to provide a connection to the Internet, local Internet service
provider, a local area network, or other connection link to the
processing server 430. Exemplary network connections 534, which are
in turn linked to the network 440 as shown in FIG. 4, may be
land-based telephone lines that provide links to the Internet.
Other links may include T1, T3, ISDN or other links to Internet or
network service providers. Note that other links may be provided
for wireless connection to Internet service providers or for
shorter links between the client and a handheld terminal.
[0052] The user 510 may input text or select menu items by
operating one or more user input devices for the client 530, such
as a keyboard 536 or mouse 538. Other input devices, such as
touchpads, touchscreens or numeric keypads may also be utilized. It
is important to note that the user 510 may be a doctor,
optometrist, clinician or service technician who is trained to
operate the client 530 for a patient 540. In the present
embodiment, the patient 540 is the subject that will wear the
customized contact lenses made in accordance with the present
invention. Of course, another embodiments, the patient 540 may
operate the client 530 on his or her own, thereby becoming the same
person as the user 510 shown in the diagram.
[0053] In the preferred embodiments, the user 510 and the patient
540 may view the customized contact lenses as various parameters
for the lenses are selected via the display 532. To provide a more
realistic and cosmetically accurate representation of the
customized lenses to the user 510 in the patient 540, the system
400 preferably utilizes an eye "template" that can show the patient
540 and user 510 how the contact lenses will look in the particular
patient's eyes. Examples of such eye templates are shown in the
drawings of FIGS. 6 and 7.
[0054] Turning now to FIG. 6, a photographic template image 600 of
the eye 610 of the patient 540 is shown. Preferably, the image 600
appears on the user display 532 or other display means. The eye 610
in the image 600 clearly shows the iris portion 620 and the colored
areas 630 of a colored contact lens in place over the iris portion
620. Note that the eyelid 640, eyelashes 642, eyebrows 644, lower
lid 646, white eye portions 648 and the surrounding facial skin
tones 649 are visible on the image 600. These other visible
portions of the eyes' surrounding features may prove important to
the user 510 and the patient 540 when selecting the parameters for
a cosmetically pleasing customized contact lens. In the
alternative, the complete face of the patient 540 may be shown, and
the user interface may allow the patient to manipulate makeup
features such as lipstick, blush, eyeliner, etc. This allows the
patient to see the selected lenses in varying facial
environments.
[0055] FIG. 7 shows an additional embodiment of a photographic
template image 700 of both eyes 610 and 610a of the patient 540.
Note that in the present image 700, more of the patient's skin 749
surrounding the eyes is visible, including a greater portion of the
nose 741 and both eyebrows 744. The image 700 used for the template
is preferred, so that the patient 540 and the user 510 may view a
more accurate rendition of the effect that the various colors of
the contact lenses 730 will have on the overall appearance of the
patient's face.
[0056] Referring back to FIG. 5, the various template images shown
in FIGS. 6 and 7 may be obtained through a variety of image
interface options. For example, to obtain the most accurate image
of the eye area of the patient 540, a clinician or user can scan
the patient's eye using an opthalmoscope connected to a digital
camera 550. The camera 550 can be a standard digital still camera,
videocamera or other standard camera imaging apparatus. Standard
and widely available software such as Adobe Photoshop.RTM., Adobe
Illustrator.RTM., Sigma Scanpro.RTM., Media Cybernetics Image
Pro.RTM., UTHSCA Image Tool.RTM., or other software, for example,
could be used to present the resulting image to the patient and
user nearly instantaneously on the display 532 where alteration or
enhancement of the patient's iris would take place. In the
alternative, a scanner 560 may be linked to the client 530 to scan
images of the patient 540 from photographs or other fixed images.
In a further alternative, the client 530 may retain a database of
sample eye templates. The user 510 and the patient 540 may thus
scroll through sample images on the display 532 and select a
template image that is suitable for the patient 540, either through
closeness of the selected image to the patient's own eyes, or by
selecting the eyes of celebrities, etc. As is known in the art,
other image acquiring means or methods may be utilized to provide a
template image to the client 530.
[0057] FIG. 8 is the block diagram that illustrates an additional
embodiment of the system of the present invention. In particular,
the figure shows a server 830 and a client 852 preferably located
at different locations. Preferably, the client 852 and other
clients (not shown) are connected via communications links 40 to
the Internet 842. The server 830 is in turn preferably linked via
communications link 840(a) to the Internet 842. Preferably, the
server 830 can serve a plurality of clients via the Internet and
the World Wide Web.
[0058] The server 830 preferably includes at least one processor
860 and a plurality of databases 862 resident on the server and in
communication with the processor 860. The databases include a
customer database 864, a manufacturer database 866, a security and
verification database 868, an image storage database 870, an
inventory database 872 and a plurality of stored Web pages 874.
Preferably, the server processor 860 receives requests in HTTP
format for Web pages stored within the server 830. The Web pages
are used to graphically present to the user 510 at the client 852
the various selection options, images, and ordering information
used in carrying out the method of the present invention. The
customer database 864 includes information specific to various
users or patients. This information can include previous order
information, prescription verification information, credit card or
insurance information, and information relating to the patient's
cosmetic characteristics and preferences. Of course, other
information may be retained within this database to provide more
convenient service for recognized customers or users on the system.
The manufacturer database 866 includes information relating to
various manufacturers of the customized contact lenses, including
their inventory, production capabilities, and other information
relevant to carrying out customized lens orders received from the
client. The security and verification database 868 stores
recognized user information such as passwords and usernames.
Preferably, this information is linked to the customer database and
associated with table items therein. The image database 870
includes stored images and patient eye templates for use in
conjunction with interactive lens creation or selection. The
inventory database 872 contains information related to lens
availability in particular inventory facilities.
[0059] The client system 852 preferably includes a processor 880
which runs browser software such as Netscape Communicator.RTM. or
Microsoft.RTM. Internet Explorer.RTM.. As noted previously in
conjunction with the description of FIG. 5, the client 852 includes
a local storage system in communication with the processor 880 for
storing user interface software 882. Client identifier information
884, identification information for various patients and
information identifying the particular client server 852 may be
stored on the system. In present embodiment, therefore, the server
830 can communicate with the client 852 via the Internet 842 and
communications links 840(a) and 840 using the client identifier
information 884 so that the server 830 can identify the source of
communications from the particular client 852. Furthermore, the
server 830 can also identify and keep track of the ordering process
with the client 852 via this identification information.
III. The Selection of Customizable Lens Characteristics
[0060] FIGS. 9 through 13 are flow diagrams of routines that enable
the selection and ordering of customized contact lenses for users
in accordance with the present invention. When selecting the
various customizable options for contact lenses, the user may, in
general, follow at least three separate selection paths. When
choosing which particular selection paths to follow, the user may
evaluate skills such as whether lenses have been previously ordered
using the method herein, whether the user is familiar with user
interfaces or other computer environments, or simply whether the
user has a particular contact lens configuration in mind when
placing the order.
[0061] In the routines discussed below, in a preferred embodiment
of the invention, the various integrated images are provided by the
databases residing on the remote server. Preferably, the integrated
and previewed images that are generated by the routines discussed
herein are displayed in the form of Web pages sent via the Internet
to the client reviewing them on the visual display 532.
[0062] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating the general selection
paths 910 which may be taken by the user during the lens parameter
selection processes described further below. At the juncture of
every major selection of parameters in the preferred method, the
user may either choose from a simple list of selections in step
920, proceed with an interactive suggestion routine to provide a
more customized approach in step 930, or scroll through a plurality
of pre-configured sample images incorporated into the user's eye
template in step 940. In step 920, the user may simply choose from
a presented selection of color, pattern or other lens parameter
options. These options may or may not be presented along with
images of these options. If the user decides to select such
options, step 920 incorporates them into the user's template eye so
that the user can view an image of the lens with the chosen option
on the wearer's eye. Thus, the various presented options, as
integrated into the template image, may be displayed to the user
for evaluation. The interactive process of step 930 utilizes the
various qualities associated with the user's template image (such
as skin color, eyebrow and eyelash color, eye shadow color, hair
color, lipstick color, blush color and natural iris color) to
suggest intelligently the best color or pattern options. As will be
described in more detail below, these suggestions may be based on
stored associations, intelligent software routines or intelligent
search agents implemented to search information on the Internet. In
the alternative, the options may be integrated into the templates
and presented to the user in a scrolled fashion so that the user
may select the desired parameter in step 940.
[0063] A. Ordering Method and Processing Routines
[0064] FIG. 10 illustrates a flow diagram of one embodiment of the
customized contact lens ordering method of the present invention.
The diagram illustrates an overall routine that may be implemented
in software running on the server 430 or the client 420 as
illustrated previously in FIG. 4. As noted above, the method or
routine is preferably performed by a user working with the patient
at the client location. At the client location 452, the client
system 420 preferably communicates with the processing server 430
via the Internet. At step 1002, the routine checks resident
databases either at the server or the client to determine whether
it recognizes the user and/or the patient from previous orders or
registered account information. In step 1004, if the user is
recognized by the server 430, the appropriate patient profile is
retrieved for use in assisting the client and patient with the
order. If the profile of the patient is not available, or if the
patient is a new user, a subroutine may be executed to create a new
user profile for the patient. Preferably, the patient profile
selected in step 1004 will include sizing and corrective
prescription parameters that are necessary for the proper,
medically safe fitting of the resulting contact lens. These
prescription parameters may include options such as lens
magnification, the presence or absence of astigmatism correction,
the lens diameter, and the base curve of the lens.
[0065] In step 1006, the template eye is selected by the patient.
The patient can select either photographic template eye images or
provide scanned images of the patient's own eyes in accordance with
the system described in conjunction with FIG. 5 above. In step
1008, the patient may choose the desired iris pattern layers for
each contact lens that is positioned over the eye template selected
in step 1006. Preferably, as each pattern is selected in step 1008,
the pattern is automatically adjusted to fit the template and is
shown to the user integrated with the template eye so that an
accurate rendition of the patient's eyes wearing the contact lenses
may be reviewed as options are selected. In step 1010, the user may
choose one or more colors to integrate into the pattern chosen in
step 1008. The colors may be presented in the form of a palette,
color patches, or as pre-colored patterns presented to the user for
selection. As with the previous steps, after the image and color
are properly adjusted for fit and realism of rendition, the user
and the patient can review the selected colors integrated with the
chosen patterns from step 1008 on the patient's template eye.
Finally, in step 1012, the user/patient may choose other options
for the customized contact lenses. These options include color
intensity, corrective prescription changes, tinting, or even the
selection of pre-designed images for integration into the iris area
of the contact lens. In step 1014, the user may view the final
configuration of the lens on the template eye including all of the
parameters selected for the template in previous steps 1006 through
1012. The user may further view other options, such as comparing
various alternative options with the final configuration, or
comparing the final configuration to the natural eye color of the
user as shown in the template eye. It's important to note that the
presently described method steps need not necessarily occur in the
described order. For example, particular color patterns may be
chosen before or after other lens options, and viewing of lens
configurations may be made at any time.
[0066] In step 1016, the user is asked to confirm the approval of
the order to queue the lenses for ordering and fabrication. At this
time, the user may be prompted to enter payment information and the
quantity of lenses to be ordered. This information previously may
have been entered in connection with previously created user
profiles. If the order is not confirmed at step 1016, the user may
be brought back to the start of the selection routine at step 1006
and given the opportunity to change any of the selected parameters
to the user's or patient's liking. If the order is approved by the
user, the routine determines in step 1018 whether prescription
approval is necessary to process the order. Prescription approval
would be necessary if, for example, a new user orders a lens with a
corrective prescription, the user's prescription has changed, or if
any prescription-related parameter has been changed since the last
prescription approval was performed. If in step 1018 the routine
determines that prescription approval is necessary, prescription
approval is obtained in step 1020. If the user and patient are at
the same location, and the user is a certified optometrist or
ophthalmologist, the user himself can approve the order
immediately. Otherwise, prescription approval may be obtained by
sending for approval by telephone or message to the certified
optometrist or ophthalmologist listed in the patient's user
profile. If the prescription approval was denied in step 1022,
other attempts to obtain prescription approval may be undertaken in
step 1020. Such steps can include revising the order, conferring
with the physician, or setting up an appointment for consultation
with the physician. If approval has been obtained at step 1022, or
if prescription approval is not deemed necessary at step 1018 of
the routine, the completed user's order for contact lenses is sent
to the manufacturer in step 1030. In the alternative, the order may
be sent to a peer for further approval and tracking, or to any
number of other intermediate entities, such as a marketing or
consumer tracking service. Furthermore, instead of sending the lens
order to a manufacturer, the order may instead be sent to a
clearing house, inventory service or lens ordering service which
can process the order and interface with a variety of manufacturers
or suppliers to obtain the necessary product.
[0067] In FIG. 11, a flow diagram is shown illustrating a routine
that processes the selection of the eye template for use in the
embodiment of the present invention. This routine is shown in the
overall method of FIG. 10 in step 1006. In step 1102, the user
chooses the method by which the eye template is selected. As
described above, a variety of methods may be chosen, such as
directly scanning and digitized in the image of the patient's eyes
at step 1104, choosing the template high from a palette of sample
eyes at step 1106, choosing from a selection of celebrity eyes at
step 1108, or scanning and digitizing a photograph or other
pre-printed image of an eyes at step 1110. Once the method of
choosing a template eye is selected, the user selects the
particular template eyes in step 1112. Once the particular template
eyes are selected, the routine adjusts the size, shape and other
features of the eyes, particularly with respect to the enhancements
and accuracy of the iris portion. In this way, the pattern and
color overlays which will be integrated into the image will be
shown as accurate representations of the way the finished contact
lenses will look while being worn by the patient. In step 1116, the
adjusted template images are presented to the user, preferably via
the visual display 532. In step 1118, the user is prompted to
approve the eye template image that has been selected. If the user
does not approve the image, the routine repeats. If the user
approves of the eye template image, the routine ceases at step
1120.
[0068] B. Routines for Facilitating the Selection of Customization
Lens Options
[0069] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of the routine that processes the
selection of pattern options by the user in a preferred embodiment
of the invention. The routine may be utilized in conjunction with
the flow diagram of FIG. 10 described above. When selecting
patterns for the user's customized contact lens, the user may
proceed in at least three separate ways as noted above in FIG. 9.
First, the user may view individual patterns applied incrementally
to the user's eye template in step 1202. In step 1204, the user is
presented with the pattern options or a palette of available
colorization patterns. In step 1206, the user selects one of the
patterns that are presented. In step 1208, the routine displays the
selected pattern from step 1206 integrated onto the image of the
user's eye template. In step 1210, the user is prompted as to
whether to add another pattern overlay to the eye template. If the
user chooses to do so, the image selected in step 1206 is
integrated into the template image in step 1212. Thus, subsequent
overlay patterns chosen from the selection made at 1204 will be
integrated with previously selected patterns on the eye template.
Once the user determines that further pattern overlays are not
desired at step 1210, the routine displays the final refreshed
image of the user's eye template before stopping the routine at
step 1216.
[0070] C. Intelligent Selection of Customizable Lens Options
[0071] 1. The Use of Intelligent Routines
[0072] In the alternative, the user may request that the pattern
options be selected via interactive suggestions provided by the
routine beginning with the choice of the selection method at step
1218: In step 1220, the routine reads the various qualities of the
user's eye template. These qualities may, for example, include skin
color, true iris color and eyebrow colors. In step in 1222, the
analyzed qualities of the eye template are matched with records in
the database residing at the server. Suggestions for cosmetically
appealing pattern variations are then made and shown on the visual
display integrated with the eye template in step 1224. Preferably,
the suggestions are made in accordance with cosmetically appealing
options in light of the facial characteristics for "an estimated
cosmetic effect" of the best or most cosmetically acceptable
contact lens on the person or the eye template. In step 1226, the
user may then decide whether or not to select the suggested pattern
or combination of patterns. If the user does not wish to use the
selected pattern, another suggestion is chosen at step 1228. If the
user does select the suggested pattern at step 1226, the user may
be prompted in step 1230 to indicate completion of the selection
process. If not completed, further suggestions may be made in step
1228 after the selected pattern is integrated into the eye template
in step 1232. Once the user determines that the pattern selection
is complete in step 1230, the routine stops at step 1216.
[0073] Finally, the user may choose to simply scroll through a
selection of random or complete pattern overlay combinations that
have been found by intelligent agents, surveys or other information
to be the most popular or cosmetically appealing combinations in
step 1240. In step 1242, the user views the various preconfigured
combinations and makes a selection at step 1244. The combination is
selected in step 1244, and the routine ends at step 1216. In the
alternative, as shown in box 1260, the user may manually draw via a
freehand or object-oriented drafting interface, his or her own lens
pattern for superposition onto a cosmetic contact lens. The user
may view the sample image generated from the pattern in step 1262
and chose to select the pattern in step 1264.
[0074] It is important to note that in all of the previous
embodiments, the user may also modify the eye template by using a
variety of manual modification techniques with the aid of a mouse,
lightpen, or other device. Manual modification methods include
selecting a color and drawing on the template. Commercial computer
programs offer a wide variety of drawing tools, some of which are
designed to simulate a pen, pencil, airbrush, highlights, dotted
lines, and erasures. Adobe Photoshop also offers the user the
ability to create a custom pallet of brushstrokes that include
adjustable diameter, hardness, spacing, and splatter patterns.
Colors can also be customized by specifying and RGB or CMYK values,
or by clicking on a color space.
[0075] Manual modifications may also be performed with the addition
of patterns that are provided by the system, such as those in FIG.
1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 discussed previously. For example, the user
may wish start by incorporating an inner starburst (FIG. 2) into
the template eye, selecting and incorporating a color for the inner
starburst, followed by the modification of the middle section of
the eye using a computer brushstroke technique, followed by the
addition of a dark outer zone such as in FIG. 3. The user may then
wish to add finishing touches to any part of the eye before sending
an order for her custom contact lens.
[0076] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a routine that processes the
selection of various color options for the selected patterns chosen
in the routine of FIG. 12. Preferably, this routine may be utilized
in the embodiment of the present invention shown above in FIG. 10.
In the alternative, the selection of colors may be made in
conjunction with the selection of patterns or within the same
routine as shown above in FIG. 12. In step 1302, the user may
choose to select color options from a palette of colors. The user
begins in step 1304 by selecting the chosen pattern overlay layer
to which the color selection will apply. For example, the user may
specify that the color selection will apply to an inner-ring
pattern for an iris such as that shown in the pattern of FIG. 2
above. Once the applicable pattern layer is chosen, the user may
view the palette of colors in step 1306. In step 1308, the user may
select the particular desired color from the palette. Once the
color is selected, the routine displays the selected color
integrated with the eye template in step 1310. If the user is
satisfied with his selection, but wishes to continue choosing
colors for other layers in the template, the user may choose to
proceed to the next layer or pattern overlay in step 1312. In step
1314, the chosen color for the previously selected pattern layer is
added to the template. The user may then select another pattern
layer in step 1304 and continue cycling through the routine. If the
user is satisfied with the color selections and does not choose to
proceed to another layer in step 1312, the routine displays the
refreshed template image in step 1316, thus displaying the eye
template image with a fully integrated set of pattern layers having
selected colors. The routine then ceases at step 1318.
[0077] The user may select in step 1320 the option of following
interactive, or intelligent suggestions for color combinations for
the previously selected pattern overlays. In step 1322, the routine
analyzes the previously chosen pattern overlays in conjunction with
the various color features and qualities present in the eye
template. This analysis similar to the analysis undertaken in step
1220 in FIG. 12 above. Using these readings, the routine consults
databases residing in the server in step 1324 to determine one or
more suggested color combinations that the user may view in step
1326 and select in step 1328. As discussed above, the suggested
lens color combinations preferably are based on the estimated
cosmetic effect of the lens on the eye template, or various other
facial features. If the user wishes to proceed through further
suggestions, the routine will scroll through succeeding suggestions
in step 1330. Once a suggestion is selected for coloring the
pattern overlays, the routine may cease in step 1318. As a further
alternative, the user may choose in step 1340 to simply scroll
through popular colorization options which may be pre-chosen to be
cosmetically acceptable when combined with previously selected
pattern overlay combinations. In step 1342, the user may view the
various pre-selected options, and the user may select options in
step 1344. In step 1346, succeeding options may be selected for
display. In the alternative, in step 1360, the user may manually
create his or her own color for the chosen patterns by utilizing an
RGB user interface control panel to readily mix colors for various
multicolored palettes. In step 1362, the user may view the various
created color options on the selected pattern overlay combinations,
and the user may select further options in step 1362. After the
selection is made, the routine may stop in step 1318. The selection
of other options for the customized contact lenses as shown by step
1012 in FIG. 10 may be made in similar fashion to the selection
routines as shown and described in conjunction with FIGS. 12 and
13.
[0078] 2. The Use of Internet-Based Information
[0079] The information used by the above routines is not restricted
to information residing on the server. Information on the Internet,
in particular the Web, may be searched by the preferred embodiments
to supplement the database set(s) residing on the server of the
preferred system.
[0080] One method of searching for information on the Internet
involves the use of publically available search tools, or
proprietary Web sites. Of the publicly available Internet search
engines, those with the highest profile include AltaVista
(www.altavista.digital.com), Lycos (www.lycos.com), Yahoo
(www.yahoo.com) and Infoseek (www.infoseek.com). In these systems,
keywords are typed in by the user and through various search tools
and databases and analyze the results for information that may
prove useful. When a user performs an Internet search using a
particular tool, the query is actually made against the index that
the tool has built and maintained over time. Most indexes record
only a small portion of the information found in the actual
Internet site. Some search tools limit themselves to information
contained in the site's first page. Others will only index words
appearing in the first paragraph. Still others record only the
titles of major sections.
[0081] Given the increasing amount and complexity of information on
the Internet, coupled with the increasing value of such
information, the need to automate the searching of and analysis of
recovered Internet information has been recognized and can be used
to assist in the implementation of Internet search capabilities
with the preferred embodiments herein. One solution to this problem
is the employment of user interface intelligent computer agents
that can simplify and automate the exploitation of the Internet by
Internet interrogation processes and the translating of information
on the Internet from computer-readable to human-readable format.
These types of programs are given names such as robots, wanders,
spiders or crawlers. They act as "automated browsers," requesting
and archiving data for later use, either by the server routines of
the preferred embodiments herein or by the user directly.
[0082] 3. Intelligent Agents and Bots
[0083] Intelligent agents, or bots (short for "robots"), have the
capability to automatically scan the Internet on a continuous basis
for new information, enabling users to specify the types of
information they wish to follow on an ongoing basis. As shown in
FIG. 14, a bot program element or module 1402 may reside at a
client base 1404. From the client 1404, the bot 1402 can scan the
internet 1450 or other clients 1460, 1470, databases or servers
1480 and return to the client 1404 to report or collect its found
data. The intelligent agent can monitor events in real-time and
notifies the user when something has happened that matches their
submitted pre-established criteria. Most of the major Internet
search tools now offer some intelligent agent capabilities.
[0084] The intelligent agent exhibits aspects of the mind (e.g.,
intelligence) in performing its tasks, and acts independently on
behalf of its owner. Agents are viewed as autonomous--they can make
decisions while working toward a goal. Ultimately, agent technology
will help individuals and corporations cope with information
complexity. For example, agents are suited to the administrative
tasks associated with a large network, such as collecting hardware
and software inventories, distributing software and selectively
taking backups. Agents can also find information and applications,
shop for the best price on a product, and orchestrate events (e.g.,
order flowers or deliver a message).
[0085] Agents come in different types and varying capabilities. One
method of classification is their "sense of agency." Weak agency
implies capabilities such as autonomy, socialization (communication
with other agents), reactivity (events, stimulation), proactivity
and programmability. Strong agency, more closely aligned with
traditional artificial intelligence (AI), includes the
characteristics mentioned above plus more "mental/humanistic"
qualities, such as knowledge, beliefs, intentions and even
emotions.
[0086] Web robots are normally stationary programs that operate
from a specific machine. For example, in the preferred embodiments
above, in FIG. 4, can reside on the server 430, or server 830 in
FIG. 8. These robots connect to remote Web sites in the network and
constantly search for information. While these programs can be
directed to a list of one or more sites, often they "crawl" through
the network instead. For example, a robot may begin at an
explicitly defined site and download a server's default (HTML)
page. From there, the "bot" proceeds automatically by examining the
first document. The robot then discovers links to other pages and
sites (i.e., URLs) and then downloads more pages. More
sophisticated intelligent agents have the capability of traveling
from machine to machine, returning to the machine that requires the
presentation of what the bot has accomplished.
[0087] Web robots perform several tasks when acting as agents. They
can index, format and archive information gathered from the
network, search for obsolete pages and sites or gather statistics
about the network itself. The information can then be used by a
client or server-based program and presented to the user.
[0088] Agents that are mobile may in some instances be more
advantageous than stationary agents. Mobile agents have the
following benefits: [0089] 1. Process Closer to Resources: This
reduces network traffic and improves throughput. Rather than
sorting a large database through the network, for example, the
search could be conducted locally. [0090] 2. Minimizes the Damage
of Network Outages: Once an agent reached a location it could work
for extended periods of time, unaffected by network disturbances
around it. [0091] 3. Workload Distribution: Since agents are
programs, distributing them in a controlled manner helps balance
the overall workload. [0092] 4. Software Distribution: Agents can
deliver software upgrades via the network.
[0093] 4. Marketing and Commerce Implementations of Intelligent
Agents
[0094] In order to secure a transaction, bots may require currency
and the authorization to spend money. There are several methods for
bots to handle this requirement. One method is for bots to have
secure "e-wallets," containing virtual money, that will be carried
by bots. The digital currency is used to complete customers'
purchases. Information about digital cash and electronic wallets
may be found at (www.ewallet.com).
[0095] In conjunction with the presently described embodiments, a
user who frequently purchases contact lenses on the Internet may
utilize digital cash accounts and electronic wallets such as those
described above to purchase contact lenses. In the embodiments
described herein, these digital accounts may be automatically
debited or supplied with rebates or discounts automatically
depending on various frequent purchasing configurations,
promotionals or other advertising initiatives.
[0096] 5. Preventing Intelligent Agent Overreaching
[0097] Autonomous, intelligent agents may cause several problems on
a network. Web servers can be overwhelmed by aggressive robots,
where each robot fires requests in rapid succession. To help
control robot behavior, a set of voluntary design guidelines has
been established, with the following four primary directives:
[0098] 1. Show Identification: Robots can be identified by specific
HTTP request headers sent to the server (From, Referer,
User-Agent).
[0099] 2. Reduce Resource Consumption at Server: Use techniques
like limiting the amount and type of data requested, or pacing the
requests.
[0100] 3. Report Errors: Errors encountered by the robot, including
dead-end links, should be reported to the site's webmaster.
[0101] 4. Conform to the Standard for Robot Exclusion (SRE): The
essential function of SRE is to protect a Web server by restricting
access to all or part of its files. The SRE protocol requires
support of both the robot author and a site's webmaster.
[0102] SRE works as follows. First, the site administrator creates
a set of definitions and places them in a file available to
incoming robots. When a robot accesses a site, it first must
download and decode that file. The definitions are interpreted
sequentially, essentially declaring which robot or robots are
restricted and not allowed to access specific directories at the
site.
[0103] The desire for security and privacy can lead to markets for
"trust." This function addresses the needs of both buyers and
sellers of services. One dimension of privacy issues is economic in
nature; in that some consumers can "sell" their data to vendors and
"infomediaries" in exchange for services or goods, while others who
desire more privacy can elect to have limited participation in the
market.
[0104] b. Agent and Bot Development Languages
[0105] The development language for implementing intelligent agents
and bots selected must be widely supported, not only by
general-purpose operating systems such as Unix or Windows NT, but
by any device with a microprocessor.
[0106] Two application-layer protocols are also chosen to enable
mobility so that agents can safely move from machine to machine.
Associated with this type of transfer protocol are other
supplemental programming to enable, including network
security--encryption, authentication and agent identification.
Several experimental or prototype agent languages have been
developed, which fall into the category of Agent-Oriented
Programming (AOP). Under such regimes, agents are viewed
essentially as objects with specific enhancements, such as
mobility, knowledge and awareness, and the ability to exchange
messages. Several proposals for a universal Agent Communication
Language (ACL) have been put forward to standardize messaging among
mobile agents. The federally funded ARPA Knowledge Sharing Effort
leads the way with two major standards designed to represent and
share information--Knowledge Query and Manipulation Language (KQML)
and Knowledge Interchange Format (KIF).
[0107] KQML allows each agent to represent a virtual view of its
knowledge to the outside world. The agents can then exchange
messages and attempt to query or alter each other's knowledge. The
protocol defines operations and the format of the messages
exchanged between agents. KQML forms a consistent interface between
agents regardless of how each agent stores knowledge
internally.
[0108] The Java language, created by Sun Microsystems, can be
applied to the creation of intelligent agents. Java can easily be
extended to allow a programmer to "plug into" optional capabilities
in each run-time environment. Those creating Java-based agent
technologies include FTP Software (Andover, Mass.), IBM and
Stanford University. Java is object-oriented, and is compiled into
processor-independent byte codes. These programs, held in "class"
files, can then be moved through the network and interpreted at a
target machine. Therefore, Java is first compiled and then
interpreted. In addition to its mobility, Java offers broad
support. Java programs can be used not only in browsers but also as
a processor-independent language (develop once, deploy anywhere)
and as the basis for the "network computer," that has been promoted
and released by Oracle (Redwood Shores, Calif.), IBM and
others.
[0109] An example of a functionally rich, commercially supported
JAVA product is CyberAgent from FTP Software. CyberAgent allows
Java agent applications to be created through tools and additional
classes, and then to be selectively launched into the network.
[0110] C. Hardware and Software Tools for the Development of
Bots
[0111] When designing an intelligent agent for a given range of
applications, the following factors must be addressed: [0112]
Enabling the intelligent agent to interrogate and exchange
information to and from the website or target; [0113]
Cyber-negotiating capabilities to provide the agent with
negotiating mechanics and strategy; [0114] The traveling of the
agent from one website to another. A Meeley or Moore state machine
is one general solution to this problem; and [0115] Presentation of
the results of the agent's activities to the entity interested in
receiving the results.
[0116] IBM alphaworks (www.alphaWorks.ibm.com) has made available
two new Java tools in XML messaging and intelligent software for
developer feedback--SOAP for Java Q and ABLE. SOAP for Java Q
XML-based messaging technology is linked with other Internet
standards and ABLE provides a framework and graphical editor for
constructing intelligent software agents in Java. The SOAP
specification defines a simple, Internet-friendly method of using
XML to send messages and to access services. With XML and SOAP,
each business can choose its own internal implementation
technology, such as Enterprise JavaBeans, Microsoft's Component
Object Model (COM), or traditional languages such as COBOL.
[0117] In addition to HTTP, SOAP services can be accessed through a
variety of message transports. For example, bindings could be
defined to IBM's MQseries, or to electronic mail messages (SMTP).
SOAP data representations and structures have been aligned with the
proposed W3C XML Schema language, and it is now possible to apply
those encodings in a much broader range of message patterns (e.g.,
streaming, one-way, multicast, etc). Using SOAP, any business can
access a service, such as a parts catalog, or send a purchase
order, to or from any other business. SOAP simplifies the binding
of the programming language or object system of the developer's
choice. SOAP's built-in support for Remote Procedure Calls (RPC)
also simplifies the use of methods on remote objects, using XML and
HTTP, so developers can use SOAP to create distributed systems
within their own organizations.
[0118] Other agent development tools include: Network Query
Language.TM. (NQL.TM.), by AlphaServ.com, a development platform
used for the creation of intelligent agent software for network
management and e-commerce applications; INTEGRITY, enterprise
intelligent software by Vality Technology Inc. (www.vality.com),
allows companies to analyze, match and reconcile data and transform
it into a strategic information asset; SST-Resource Availability
Version 3.3, by SOFTWORKS Inc. (Alexandria, Va.;
www.softworks.com), proactively monitors storage resources across
the enterprise and provide customers with the means to maximize
storage utilization and business application availability;
BroadVision One-To-One, a software application system and
management tools for rapid development and real-time operation of
one-to-one relationship management applications for large user and
content databases, high transaction volumes, intelligent agent
matching, and integration with existing business systems; and
NeuroStudio from Neuromedia Inc. (San Francisco, Calif.;
www.neurostudios.com), a line of authoring tools and server
software that enables non-programmers to create automated software
agents that mimic human service representatives over the Web.
[0119] D. Shop Bots
[0120] Shopping robots, called "shop bots," are software agents
used to search the Web for the lowest-priced products. Shop bots
are currently used to find the lowest-priced products on the Web.
In addition to price, shopbots may also evaluate several factors,
such as product features, warranty, delivery time and return
policy, as well as the power to complete transactions
automatically. Agents may also find the best buys for users before
they remember they need something. The Agent can automatically
order cyclical cosmetics, toiletries, drugs, or groceries and have
them delivered.
[0121] In addition, it is important to note that several auction
sites are now available for online shopping, including
Priceline.com, Amazon.com, Ebay, Dealtime (www.dealtime.com),
Bidder's edge (www.biddersedge.com) and Yahoo.com. These sites, and
others, can be searched or viewed to provide information relating
to consumer demand, fashion trends or aftermarket sales
activities.
[0122] From a presentation standpoint, the shopbot intelligent
agent may also direct users to a site, or automatically produce a
multimedia presentation that will strategically bundle the package
of information in an engaging way, and the online decision support
tool will persuade the person to buy.
[0123] E. Commercially Available Bots
[0124] Early attempts to create intelligent agents include
Microsoft's "Firefly," wherein users fill out a profile about their
likes and dislikes. A Firefly-enabled online storefront can keep
track of a person's favorite authors, brands, birth date or
anniversary. It may even know a person's favorite flower or
perfume.
[0125] As an example, the intelligent agent technology in Movexe is
designed to not only collect but also to communicate information
among channel partners. A manufacturer, for example, can use the
retailer's sales information to determine demand for some component
of a retail product. Agents may also find the best buys for users
before they remember they need something. The IA will automatically
order cyclical cosmetics, toiletries, drugs, or groceries and have
them delivered.
[0126] Continuous speech recognition, natural language
understanding, problem solving and animated personalities are
further enhancements to this technology, and may routinely assist
with finding information, answering questions, and conducting
transactions. An example of a bot with speech recognition
capability is Artificial Life's Smartengine.RTM. technology, which
gives the bots the capability of behaving intelligently and
communicating with Internet users in natural language. Because the
bot will learn what customers have already bought and where their
interests lie, it can address them actively with a specific
objective in mind and recommend the ideal mobile telephone
product.
[0127] Other popular shop bots include, for example,
www.mysimon.com, Net-tissimo.com (www.net-tissimo.com), Universus
by Geobot, Zegenie.com, Artificial Life Inc. (Alife.com),
CyberAgent from FTP Software, Allaire Corporation's ColdFusion, and
Net Perceptives Group Lens. Others may offer additional
enhancements to the searching function. Intelligent agents are
available in a continually increasing range of personality choices.
Sapir's company uses bots with natural language comprehension
technology to carry on a limited but functional conversation
between a customer and the bot, represented on-screen as a
character, or avatar, as it is referred to in the art. For example,
Imp Character Technology enables creation of characters who offer
easy and natural interaction through conversation and animated
gestures, active assistance and other sorts of expertise and the
color, warmth and entertainment value of distinctive character
personas. By offering these compelling functional, human and social
qualities, Imp Characters build multifaceted two-way relationships
between a company and its customers. In hopes of enhancing the
holiday online shopping experience, Extempo (www.extempo.com), a
creator of interactive characters and intelligent agent technology,
produces a variety of shopping characters, such as "Chat with
Santa," a Santa Claus character for e-commerce Web sites.
[0128] F. Applications
[0129] In the context of the present embodiments, it is desirable
for the present system and method to track customer attitudes,
preferences and behavior, in both a static and dynamic sense. It is
also important to determine what influences consumers and their
cosmetic lens choices, and to what extent.
[0130] One efficient way to use pull technology to gather
information on prospective clients involves the use of specialized
databases. Searching a variety of databases often leads to the
discovery of some "common ground" between the sales person and the
prospect. For example, if a salesperson has knowledge of or
personal contacts with the members of certain charitable boards,
this can be all that is needed to establish a higher level of
credibility. In addition, having detailed background data prior to
an initial meeting with a prospective client makes a positive first
impression and sets the salesperson apart from competitors who
arrive with minimal knowledge and expect the client to bring them
up to speed.
[0131] A virtual customer consultant is another potential
application of intelligent agents. Bots can be integrated into
existing Internet shops and advise customer and buyers on products,
actively offering products in various Web shops. When necessary,
the virtual customer consultant will pass the customer on to a live
operator who then continues the sales discussion without
interruption.
[0132] A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the method
and system of the present invention may be utilized in environments
other than the Internet. For example, the method may be implemented
in conjunction with a local wireless radio network using handheld
mobile units or computing devices. Other communication methods such
as point-to-point connections, local area networks, wide area
networks or combinations thereof may be used to implement the
invention. Furthermore, the method can also be utilized in
conjunction with electronic mail systems where in the orders and
image templates may be sent back and forth between the user and a
server. Note also that the server system 430 may include a
combination of hardware and software to assist in providing
interactive feedback for generating orders in response to requests
from clients. In addition, other more traditional modalities may be
used to implement or supplement the method herein, such as mail,
telephone orders, magazine ads, and rebates.
[0133] Of course, it should be understood that a wide range of
changes and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments
described above. For example, the method steps described above can
occur in a different order than those disclosed. Thus, it is
intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as
illustrative rather than limiting, and that it be understood that
it is the following claims, including all equivalents, which are
intended to define the scope of this invention.
* * * * *
References