U.S. patent application number 12/571839 was filed with the patent office on 2010-07-29 for systems and methods for accessing hotel services using a portable electronic device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to Kaiann Drance, Stanley Carl Ng, Courtnee Westendorf.
Application Number | 20100191551 12/571839 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42354876 |
Filed Date | 2010-07-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100191551 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Drance; Kaiann ; et
al. |
July 29, 2010 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ACCESSING HOTEL SERVICES USING A PORTABLE
ELECTRONIC DEVICE
Abstract
This is directed to systems and methods for integrating hotel
services in a single application available to a portable electronic
device. Using the single application, a user can access and control
hotel services before arriving at the hotel, upon arriving at the
hotel, in the hotel room, in the local vicinity, and after leaving
the hotel. Such services can include, for example, checking-in and
checking out, purchasing in-room dining or in-room entertainment,
making reservations at local restaurants or local attractions,
scheduling hotel guest reminders, and controlling room setting
either within the room or outside of the room.
Inventors: |
Drance; Kaiann; (San Jose,
CA) ; Ng; Stanley Carl; (Los Altos, CA) ;
Westendorf; Courtnee; (Half Moon Bay, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KRAMER LEVIN NAFTALIS & FRANKEL LLP
1177 Avenue of the Americas
New York
NY
10036
US
|
Assignee: |
Apple Inc.
Cupertino
CA
|
Family ID: |
42354876 |
Appl. No.: |
12/571839 |
Filed: |
October 1, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61147355 |
Jan 26, 2009 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 10/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/5 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 10/00 20060101
G06Q010/00 |
Claims
1. A method comprising: receiving identifying information from a
user, wherein the information is transmitted via a portable
electronic device of the user located remote from a hotel;
receiving, from the user, a request to configure at least one room
setting; determining, based on the identifying information, that
the user is an authorized guest of the hotel; and configuring a
hotel room of the hotel with the at least one room setting in
response to determining the user is an authorized guest, wherein
the configuring is performed prior to the user arriving at the
hotel room.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the request comprises at least
one of adjusting a temperature setting of the hotel room, adjusting
a television setting of the hotel room, adjusting an audio setting
of the hotel room, adjusting a lighting setting of the hotel room,
and adjusting a bathtub setting of the hotel room.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the request comprises a
particular timeframe in which to complete the request.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein determining, based on the
identifying information, that the user is an authorized guest
further comprises: determining the user is one of a current hotel
guest and a hotel guest scheduled to check-in on the current
date.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein configuring a hotel room further
comprises: determining a particular hotel room is scheduled for
occupancy by the user; and configuring the particular hotel room
with the at least one room setting.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving, from the
user, a request to pre-order a room service item; and delivering
the room service item to the hotel room prior to the user arriving
at the hotel room.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining the user
is not checked into the hotel and is scheduled to check-in on the
current date; and automatically checking the user into the hotel in
response to determining the user is not checked into the hotel and
is scheduled to check-in on the current date.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining the user
is not checked into the hotel and is scheduled to check-in on the
current date; and transmitting, in response to determining the user
is not checked into the hotel and is scheduled to check-in on the
current date, a notification to the user requesting permission to
check-in the user.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: receiving permission
to check-in the user, wherein the permission is transmitted via the
portable electronic device; and checking the user into the
hotel.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: transmitting a
notification to the user offering an upsell opportunity.
11. A portable electronic device for interfacing with a hotel
system, the portable electronic device comprising: an input
component operable to receive a user request to adjust at least one
room setting of a hotel room; and communication circuitry operable
to: transmit the user request to the hotel system; transmit
identifying information to the hotel system for retrieving
reservation information of a particular hotel room; and receive a
confirmation from the hotel system indicating the particular hotel
room is configured with the at least one room setting.
12. The portable electronic device of claim 11, wherein the user
request comprises at least one of adjusting a temperature setting
of the hotel room, adjusting a television setting of the hotel
room, adjusting an audio setting of the hotel room, adjusting a
lighting setting of the hotel room, and adjusting a bathtub setting
of the hotel room.
13. The portable electronic device of claim 11, wherein the
communication circuitry is further operable to: receive an
electronic key operative to open a hotel room door, wherein the
electronic key is operable by the portable electronic device.
14. The portable electronic device of claim 13, further comprising:
a display component; and a processor, wherein the electronic key
comprises a particular optical pattern and wherein the processor is
operable to direct the display component to display the particular
optical pattern to unlock a door.
15. The portable electronic device of claim 12, further comprising:
a radio signal generator; and a processor, wherein the electronic
key comprises a particular radio signal and wherein the processor
is operable to direct the radio signal generator to generate the
particular radio signal to unlock a door.
16. The portable electronic device of claim 11, wherein the
communications circuitry is further operable to: transmit a request
to schedule a hotel service.
17. The portable electronic device of claim 16, wherein the hotel
service comprises one of a wake up call, an appointment at a hotel
spa, and a reservation of a hotel conference room.
18. The portable electronic device of claim 11, wherein the
communications circuitry is further operable to: transmit a request
to control an entertainment system of the particular hotel
room.
19. The portable electronic device of claim 11, further comprising:
a connector operable to couple the portable electronic device to a
dock of an entertainment system for at least one of audio and video
playback.
20. Machine-readable media comprising machine-readable instructions
recorded thereon for: receiving identifying information from a
user, wherein the information is transmitted via a portable
electronic device of the user located remote from a hotel;
receiving, from the user, a request to configure at least one room
setting; determining, based on the identifying information, that
the user is an authorized guest of the hotel; and configuring a
hotel room of the hotel with the at least one room setting in
response to determining the user is an authorized guest, wherein
the configuring is performed prior to the user arriving at the
hotel room.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/147,355, filed on Jan. 26, 2009, which is
hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] This is directed to providing access to hotel services using
a portable electronic device.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] As travelers stay in hotels or locations other than their
homes, many interactions between the travelers and the hotels can
take place. For example, a traveler can interact with a hotel to
make a reservation, check-in, order room service, control room
settings, use a concierge to identify attractions of interest in
the vicinity, purchase entertainment options, check-out, and
schedule subsequent aspects of a trip (e.g., order a taxi, reserve
a rental car, or check-in to a flight). All of these interactions
can require distinct actions from the user from different devices
or elements. For example, a user can call to make a reservation,
check-in in-person upon reaching the hotel, order entertainment
using a menu available from a television screen, identify
attractions from a telephone or through an in-person conversation
with a concierge, and check-out by receiving a receipt slipped
underneath the user's door.
[0004] Although this combination of approaches for interacting with
the hotel and with the available hotel services can be serviceable,
it remains cumbersome and requires the hotel to accommodate all of
the possible forms of interaction. From a user's perspective, the
lack of centralization of interactions with the hotel and with the
available hotel services can require more effort from the user
wishing to take advantage of hotel services, and perhaps even
dissuade the user from using available hotel services (thus at a
cost to the hotel).
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] This is directed to systems and methods for accessing hotel
services through a portable electronic device. In particular, this
is directed to providing an integrated application of an electronic
device for accessing hotel services in accordance with some
embodiments.
[0006] In some embodiments, the integrated application can
interface with one or more servers associated with the hotel. For
example, the electronic device can connect with distinct servers
associated with ordering services or goods from the hotel (e.g.,
room service), and with distinct servers associated with
attractions, shops or stores to allow a user to make reservations,
make purchases, or access information. As another example, the
electronic device can connect with the controls of a hotel room in
which the user is staying to configure aspects of the room such as
lighting, temperature, audio settings, video settings, bathtub
settings, any other suitable room settings, or any combination of
the above.
[0007] In some embodiments, the integrated application can allow a
user to create, access, and modify hotel reservations. In some
embodiments, the integrated application can allow a user to
remotely check into a hotel, for example, as a user is approaching
the hotel in a taxi. In this case, the electronic device can
function as a room key. For example, the electronic device can
transmit a signal using an appropriate protocol and radio (e.g.,
Bluetooth signal or other near field communication) to direct a
door to be opened. As another example, the electronic device can
display a pattern for an optical reader associated with a door. In
some embodiments, through the integrated application a user can
pre-order room service or other hotels services, control room
settings (e.g., lighting, audio settings, video settings,
temperature settings, and bath settings). For example, a user can
remotely control the room settings, remotely pre-order room
service, or both, before arriving at their room. Alternatively or
additionally, the electronic device can function as a remote
control to allow a user to control room settings and order hotel
services while the user is in their room.
[0008] In some embodiments, the integrated application can allow a
user to view concierge information (e.g., hotel amenities, nearby
shops and restaurants, and the like). A user may make reservations
and/or purchases at the shops and restaurants through the
integrated application. For example, the electronic device can be
used to interface with a menu providing access to hotel services
(e.g., displayed on the television screen of the user's room, shown
on a display of the electronic device, or both). Using the menu,
the user can order videos available for purchase, send requests to
schedule hotel services (e.g., schedule a wake up call, make an
appointment at the hotel spa, reserve a hotel conference room, and
the like), or purchase goods using the existing hotel interface. In
some embodiments, the integrated application can provide social
networking abilities by allowing a user to locate friends and
acquaintances (e.g., in the nearby area).
[0009] In some embodiments, the integrated application can allow a
user to check out remotely (e.g., by displaying their bill and room
charges). In some embodiments, the integrated application can
provide other post-checkout functions such as allowing a user to
access rewards information, allowing a user to request
transportation (e.g., to and/or from an airport), providing
bounceback offers, and storing travel receipts (e.g., so a user can
be reimbursed for travel expenses).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The above and other features of the present invention, its
nature and various advantages will be more apparent upon
consideration of the following detailed description, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an illustrative electronic
device for providing an application operative to interface with a
hotel system in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of several situations during
which a user can make use of a single, integrated application in
the context of a hotel stay in accordance with some embodiments of
the invention;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a diagram of advantages of an integrated
application for enhancing a user's hotel experience in accordance
with some embodiments of the invention;
[0014] FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic views of functions available
to a user before arrival in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention;
[0015] FIG. 5 is an illustrative process for configuring a room
setting in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of functions available to a user
upon arriving at a hotel in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of functions available to a user
within the hotel room in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an electronic device
integrated in an audio system in accordance with some embodiments
of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of an electronic device
integrated in a video system in accordance with some embodiments of
the invention;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of functions available to a user
for accessing hotel amenities and nearby destinations in accordance
with some embodiments of the invention; and
[0021] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of functions available to a user
after leaving the hotel in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an illustrative electronic
device for providing an application operative to interface with a
hotel system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
Electronic device 100 can include control circuitry 102, storage
104, memory 106, I/O circuitry 108 ("I/O circuitry 108"), and
communications circuitry 110. In some embodiments, one or more of
the components of electronic device 100 can be combined or omitted
(e.g., storage 104 and memory 106 can be combined). In some
embodiments, electronic device 100 can include other components not
combined or included in those shown in FIG. 1 (e.g., motion
detection components, a power supply such as a battery or kinetics,
a display, a bus, a positioning system, or an input mechanism), or
several instances of the components shown in FIG. 1. For the sake
of simplicity, only one of each of the components is shown in FIG.
1.
[0023] Electronic device 100 can include any suitable type of
electronic device. For example, electronic device 100 can include a
portable electronic device that the user may hold in his or her
hand, such as a digital media player (e.g., an iPod.TM. made
available by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif.), a personal e-mail
device (e.g., a Blackberry.TM. made available by Research in Motion
of Waterloo, Ontario), a personal data assistant ("PDA"), a
cellular telephone, a handheld gaming device, and a digital camera.
As another example, electronic device 100 can include a larger
portable electronic device, such as a laptop computer. As yet
another example, electronic device 100 can include a substantially
fixed electronic device, such as a desktop computer.
[0024] Control circuitry 102 can include any processing circuitry
or processor operative to control the operations and performance of
electronic device 100. For example, control circuitry 102 can be
used to run operating system applications, firmware applications,
media playback applications, media editing applications, or any
other application. In some embodiments, control circuitry 102 can
drive a display and process inputs received from a user
interface.
[0025] Storage 104 can include, for example, one or more storage
mediums including a hard-drive, solid state drive, flash memory,
permanent memory such as ROM, any other suitable type of storage
component, or any combination thereof. Storage 104 can store, for
example, media data (e.g., music and video files), application data
(e.g., for implementing functions on electronic device 100),
firmware, user preference information data (e.g., media playback
preferences), authentication information (e.g. libraries of data
associated with authorized users), lifestyle information data
(e.g., food preferences), exercise information data (e.g.,
information obtained by exercise monitoring equipment), transaction
information data (e.g., information such as credit card
information), wireless connection information data (e.g.,
information that can enable electronic device 100 to establish a
wireless connection), subscription information data (e.g.,
information that keeps track of podcasts or television shows or
other media a user subscribes to), contact information data (e.g.,
telephone numbers and email addresses), calendar information data,
and any other suitable data or any combination thereof.
[0026] Memory 106 can include cache memory, semi-permanent memory
such as RAM, and/or one or more different types of memory used for
temporarily storing data. In some embodiments, memory 106 can also
be used for storing data used to operate electronic device
applications, or any other type of data that can be stored in
storage 104. In some embodiments, memory 106 and storage 104 can be
combined as a single storage medium.
[0027] I/O circuitry 108 can be operative to convert (and
encode/decode, if necessary) analog signals and other signals into
digital data. In some embodiments, I/O circuitry 108 can also
convert digital data into any other type of signal, and vice-versa.
For example, I/O circuitry 108 can receive and convert physical
contact inputs (e.g., from a multi-touch screen), physical
movements (e.g., from a mouse or sensor), analog audio signals
(e.g., from a microphone), or any other input. The digital data can
be provided to and received from control circuitry 102, storage
104, memory 106, or any other component of electronic device 100.
Although I/O circuitry 108 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as a single
component of electronic device 100, several instances of I/O
circuitry 108 can be included in electronic device 100.
[0028] Electronic device 100 can include any suitable interface or
component for allowing a user to provide inputs to I/O circuitry
108. For example, electronic device 100 can include any suitable
input mechanism, such as for example, a button, keypad, dial, a
click wheel, or a touch screen. In some embodiments, electronic
device 100 can include a capacitive sensing mechanism, or a
multi-touch capacitive sensing mechanism.
[0029] In some embodiments, electronic device 100 can include
specialized output circuitry associated with output devices such
as, for example, one or more audio outputs. The audio output can
include one or more speakers (e.g., mono or stereo speakers) built
into electronic device 100, or an audio component that is remotely
coupled to electronic device 100 (e.g., a headset, headphones or
earbuds that can be coupled to communications device with a wire or
wirelessly).
[0030] In some embodiments, I/O circuitry 108 can include display
circuitry (e.g., a screen or projection system) for providing a
display visible to the user. For example, the display circuitry can
include a screen (e.g., an LCD screen) that is incorporated in
electronics device 100. As another example, the display circuitry
can include a movable display or a projecting system for providing
a display of content on a surface remote from electronic device 100
(e.g., a video projector). In some embodiments, the display
circuitry can include a coder/decoder (Codec) to convert digital
media data into analog signals. For example, the display circuitry
(or other appropriate circuitry within electronic device 100) can
include video Codecs, audio Codecs, or any other suitable type of
Codec.
[0031] The display circuitry also can include display driver
circuitry, circuitry for driving display drivers, or both. The
display circuitry can be operative to display content (e.g., media
playback information, application screens for applications
implemented on the electronic device, information regarding ongoing
communications operations, information regarding incoming
communications requests, or device operation screens) under the
direction of control circuitry 102. Alternatively, the display
circuitry can be operative to provide instructions to a remote
display.
[0032] Communications circuitry 110 can include any suitable
communications circuitry operative to connect to a communications
network and to transmit communications (e.g., voice or data) from
electronic device 100 to other devices within the communications
network. Communications circuitry 110 can be operative to interface
with the communications network using any suitable communications
protocol such as, for example, Wi-Fi (e.g., a 802.11 protocol),
Bluetooth.RTM., radio frequency systems (e.g., 900 MHz, 1.4 GHz,
and 5.6 GHz communication systems), infrared, GSM, GSM plus EDGE,
CDMA, quadband, and other cellular protocols, VOIP, or any other
suitable protocol.
[0033] In some embodiments, communications circuitry 110 can be
operative to create a communications network using any suitable
communications protocol. For example, communications circuitry 110
can create a short-range communications network using a short-range
communications protocol to connect to other devices. For example,
communications circuitry 110 can be operative to create a local
communications network using the Bluetooth.RTM. protocol to couple
electronic device 100 with a Bluetooth.RTM. headset.
[0034] Electronic device 100 can include one more instances of
communications circuitry 110 for simultaneously performing several
communications operations using different communications networks,
although only one is shown in FIG. 1 to avoid overcomplicating the
drawing. For example, electronic device 100 can include a first
instance of communications circuitry 110 for communicating over a
cellular network, and a second instance of communications circuitry
110 for communicating over Wi-Fi or using Bluetooth.RTM.. In some
embodiments, the same instance of communications circuitry 110 can
be operative to provide for communications over several
communications networks.
[0035] In some embodiments, electronic device 100 can be coupled a
host device for data transfers, synching the communications device,
software or firmware updates, providing performance information to
a remote source (e.g., providing riding characteristics to a remove
server) or performing any other suitable operation that can require
electronic device 100 to be coupled to a host device. Several
electronic devices 100 can be coupled to a single host device using
the host device as a server. Alternatively or additionally,
electronic device 100 can be coupled to several host devices (e.g.,
for each of the plurality of the host devices to serve as a backup
for data stored in electronic device 100).
[0036] In some embodiments, an electronic device (e.g., electronic
device 100 of FIG. 1) may include an application operative to
interface with a hotel system to provide access to different
services provided by the hotel. In some embodiments, this access to
the different hotel service can be provided through a single,
integrated application of the electronic device. For example,
through the integrated application, a user can connect to a hotel
registration system to allow a user to check-in and check-out
remotely (e.g., from a taxi on the way to the hotel). As another
example, the integrated application can allow the user to access
services available to hotel guests, such as a concierge service,
room service, or other services for enhancing a user's hotel
experience. As a further example, the integrated application can
allow a user to access and control room settings such as lighting,
heat, audio settings, video settings, and bath settings. In some
embodiments, the electronic device can allow a user to access the
settings, services, or both remotely (e.g., by functioning as a
remote control). Also, in addition to hotels, it is to be
understood that a user can make use of a single, integrated
application in the context of any other type of travel experience,
in accordance with other embodiments of the invention.
[0037] The electronic device can interface with the hotel system
using any suitable approach. In some embodiments, the electronic
device can securely connect to one or more servers associated with
the hotel. For example, the electronic device can connect with
distinct servers associated with ordering services or goods from
the hotel (e.g., room service). As another example, the electronic
device can connect with distinct servers associated with
attractions, shops, or store, for which the user can make
reservations, purchases, or access information (e.g., replacing the
introduction binder typically found in hotel rooms). As another
example, the electronic device can connect with the controls of a
hotel room in which the user is staying to configure aspects of the
room such as lighting, temperature, audio settings, video settings,
bathtub settings, any other suitable room settings, or any
combination of the above.
[0038] Accordingly, through an integrated application of an
electronic device, a user can perform different operations to
enhance the user's hotel experience. FIG. 2 shows diagram 200 of
several situations during which a user can make use of a single,
integrated application in the context of a hotel stay. These
situations may include, for example, pre-arrival scenario 202
before a user has checked into a hotel (e.g., while planning the
reservation, traveling to the hotel, or both). Other situations can
include arrival scenario 204 when a user initially arrives at a
hotel, in-room scenario 206 when a user is in their room, and hotel
amenities and destination scenario 208 (e.g., when a user is taking
part in hotel amenities such as hotel restaurants and bars, when a
user is visiting local destination attractions such museums, shows,
and restaurants outside of the hotel, and the like). Another
situation can include post trip scenario 210 after a user has
checked-out of a hotel.
[0039] Advantages of such a single, integrated application can
include, as indicated by diagram 300 of FIG. 3, creating a unique
experience 302. For example, the integrated application can create
a hotel experience that is personal and connected to a shopper
(e.g., by promoting continuity with a certain hotel or hotel chain
based on a shopper's personal preferences and habits). Advantages
of a single, integrated application may also include monetization
304. For example, upgrades and special services that may be
purchased by a user can be offered through the integrated
application. Another advantage can include customer retention 306.
For example, the integrated application can build customer
relations and promote customer retention (e.g., by addressing a
traveler's needs 24 hours a day and 7 days a week to provide the
utmost satisfaction). Yet another advantage can include affiliate
opportunities 308. For example, since a portable electronic
device's simplicity, affordability, and portability may appeal to a
broad scope of travelers, a broad scope of travelers may be using
the integrated application. Affiliate companies may then be given
the opportunity to reach this wide range of travelers through the
integrated application. In this manner, a single, integrated
application can control and enhance the user's experience with that
hotel.
[0040] FIG. 4A shows diagram 400 of functions available to a user
before arriving at a hotel in accordance with some embodiments of
the invention. For example, the functions of FIG. 4A may be
available to a user during pre-arrival scenario 202 of FIG. 2 and
may be used to initiate contact with the guest. However, one
skilled in the art could appreciate that the functions of FIG. 4A
are not limited to a pre-arrival scenario or to the particular
functions listed in FIG. 4A, and rather may include any suitable
functions or be used in any suitable scenario.
[0041] As generally indicated in diagram 400, a user can create,
access, and modify hotel reservations through an integrated
application of the user's electronic device. For example, interface
402 shows an exemplary interface to allow a user to access a hotel
reservation through electronic device 404. As one illustration, a
user can enter identifying information in one or more input boxes
406. The information can be entered through any suitable input
component such as input 408. The user's hotel reservation can then
be accessed (e.g., for viewing, editing, or for any other suitable
function) by selecting input 410. In some embodiments, an
integrated application can aid a user in booking a hotel
reservation by allowing a user to, for example, browse available
hotels, view hotel information, or otherwise suitably be presented
with various options and information regarding a hotel reservation.
In some embodiments, the integrated application can aid in
destination planning by providing local area information (e.g.,
information about local restaurants, shops, and attractions). The
provided information can be free or can be available for purchase
(e.g., tour guide books available for purchase). For example, a
user can perform a secure transaction through the integrated
application (e.g., by using a credit card) to purchase the
information.
[0042] As is also generally indicated in diagram 400, a user can be
provided with upsell opportunities through the integrated
application. For example, a user can be provided with an
opportunity to upgrade their room, purchase pre-paid meals (e.g.,
pre-pay for breakfast at the hotel), or purchase any other suitable
upsell opportunities. The upsell opportunities can be delivered to
the user in any suitable manner such as, for example, an e-mail
sent to the user's e-mail account, a pop-up notification, a push
notification (e.g., a notification that utilizes an internet
protocol ("IP") connection to forward notifications from the
servers of third party applications to an electronic device), or
any combination of the above.
[0043] In some embodiments, a user can remotely check-in and/or
check-in early through the integrated application. For example, a
hotel system can detect when a user who is scheduled to check into
the hotel on the current date is approaching the hotel. In some
embodiments, the user's electronic device can include a positioning
system with which the hotel system can communicate to determine the
user's location. The positioning system can include any suitable
system such as, for example, a global positioning system ("GPS")
receiver for accessing a GPS application function call that returns
the geographic coordinates (i.e., the geographic location) of the
electronic device. As another illustration, the positioning system
can utilize any suitable trilateration or triangulation technique
to determine the geographic coordinates of the electronic device.
In some embodiments, the positioning system can determine various
measurements (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio ("SNR") or signal
strength measurements) of a network signal (e.g., a cellular
telephone network signal, a wireless network access point or "hot
spot," or any other suitable network signal) associated with the
electronic device to determine its location.
[0044] Accordingly, by determining the user's current location
(e.g., through a positioning system of the user's electronic
device), the hotel system can determine when the user is
approaching the hotel. In response to determining the user is
nearby (e.g., within a predetermined distance of the hotel), the
hotel system may automatically check-in the user. Alternatively,
the hotel system can send a notification to the user requesting
permission to check-in the user when the hotel system determines
the user is within a predetermined distance of the hotel. For
example, FIG. 4B shows notification 412 that can be provided via
electronic device 414 to request permission to check-in a user.
Notification 412 can include, for example, a pop-up notification, a
push notification, or any other suitable notification provided via
electronic device 414.
[0045] As generally indicated by diagram 400, a user can pre-order
in-room dining (e.g., room service) or request any other suitable
hotel services through the integrated application. For example,
oftentimes a user may be arriving at a hotel during late or unusual
hours (e.g., due to a long travel time, traveling to a different
time zone, or both). Accordingly, local restaurants and hotel
restaurants may already be closed when the user arrives at the
hotel. Thus an arriving guest, who may potentially be tired and
hungry from traveling, may be unable to order food. Through the
integrated application of the user's device, however, a user can
pre-order a room service item while the room service is still
available. The room service item may then be delivered to the
user's room. For example, the room service item can be delivered to
the user's hotel room prior to the user's arrival. In this manner,
the room service order can be ready and waiting for the user when
he arrives at his room. Alternatively or additionally to a room
service order, any other suitable hotel service can be
pre-ordered.
[0046] In some embodiments, a user can remotely control room
settings of their hotel room through the integrated application.
The room settings can include, for example, temperature settings,
audio settings (e.g., radio), video settings (e.g., television,
movies, and the like), light settings, bath settings (e.g., filling
up a bathtub with water at a desired temperature), or any other
suitable room settings. For example, the electronic device can be
used to interface with a menu providing access to the room
settings. Using the menu, the user can suitably configure the room
settings as desired when the user is not in the room (e.g., the
user can turn on the air conditioning in the room in order that the
room has cooled down by the time the user checks-in and arrives at
the hotel room). One skilled in the art could appreciate that the
room settings can be remotely configured at any suitable time, and
is not limited to the timeframe before a user initially checks-in.
For example, a user may have already checked into a hotel, yet has
left the hotel room for the day (e.g., to go skiing, to go to work,
and the like). On the way back to the hotel room, a user can
remotely configure the room settings to increase the temperature in
the hotel room, (e.g., since the user may be cold from skiing all
day). In this manner, the hotel room may already be warmed by the
time the user arrives at the hotel room.
[0047] FIG. 5 shows process 500 for configuring a room setting. At
step 502, identifying information can be received from the user.
For example, the identifying information can be received by a
server of the hotel system. The identifying information can include
a credit card number, a hotel reservation number, the user's name,
the user's birth date, the user's social security number, the
user's login information (e.g., to log into a server of the hotel
system), any other suitable identifying information, or any
combination of the above. The information can be transmitted by,
for example, communication circuitry of an electronic device of the
user (e.g., communication circuitry 110 of FIG. 1) to the hotel
system.
[0048] At step 504, a request to configure at least one room
setting can be received from the user. Similar to step 502, the
request can be received by, for example, a server of the hotel
system. The room setting requested for configuration can include a
temperature setting, an audio setting, a video setting, a light
setting, a bath setting, any other suitable room setting, or any
combination of the above. In some embodiments, the request can
include a certain timeframe in which to complete the request (e.g.,
"turn on the room lights in 15 minutes."). In this manner, a user
can time a room setting configuration to occur at a desired time
such as, for example, shortly before the user arrives at the hotel
room (e.g., in order to save electricity).
[0049] At step 506, the hotel system can determine whether the user
is an authorized guest of the hotel (e.g., and thus may be
authorized to configure a room setting). For example, based on the
identifying information received at step 502, the hotel system can
determine whether the user is currently checked into the hotel. As
another example, based on the identifying information received at
step 502, the hotel system can determine whether the user is
scheduled to check into the hotel on the current date. In some
embodiments, in response to determining the user is scheduled to
check into the hotel on the current date but is not yet checked in,
the hotel system can automatically check the user into the hotel.
Alternatively, in this scenario, the hotel can send a notification
to the user requesting permission to check the user into the hotel
(e.g., notification 412 of FIG. 4B).
[0050] At step 508, in response to determining the user is an
authorized guest of the hotel, a hotel room can be configured with
the requested room setting that was received at step 504. For
example, one or more lights can be turned off or on, the room
temperature can be raised or lowered, a radio can be turned on,
off, or have its volume adjusted, a television can be turned on,
off, or have its volume adjusted, a particular movie can be loaded
into an entertainment system (e.g., loaded into a DVD or Blu-ray
player), a bathtub can be filled with water of a desired
temperature, or any other suitable room settings can be configured
as requested.
[0051] The particular hotel room whose settings are to be
configured can be determined in any suitable manner. For example,
if a user is already checked into the hotel, the room settings can
be applied to the user's hotel room. If the user is currently being
checked into the hotel (e.g., checked in remotely through a
suitable interface, such as notification 412 of FIG. 4B), the user
can be assigned to a particular room at this time. The room
settings may then be applied to this particular room.
[0052] FIG. 6 shows diagram 600 of functions available to a user
upon arriving at a hotel in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention. For example, the functions of FIG. 6 may be available to
a user during arrival scenario 204 of FIG. 2. However, one skilled
in the art could appreciate that the functions of FIG. 6 are not
limited to an arrival scenario or to the particular functions
listed in FIG. 6, and rather may include any suitable functions or
be used in any suitable scenario.
[0053] As generally indicated in diagram 600, a user can complete a
check-in through the integrated application. For example, as
illustrated by user interface 602, a notification such as
notification 604 can be received on the user's electronic device
606. The notification can include information such as information
on where to pick up a room key, an arrival confirmation, an option
such as option 608 to allow the user to reply to the notification
or otherwise communicate with the hotel, or any other suitable
information.
[0054] In some embodiments, the electronic device itself can
function as a room key. For example, the electronic device can
transmit a signal using an appropriate protocol and radio signal
(e.g., RFID signal or other near field communication) to direct a
hotel room door to be opened. As another example, the electronic
device can display a pattern for an optical reader associated with
a hotel room door. The electronic device can receive the
appropriate electronic key at any suitable time, including for
example upon checking-in remotely (e.g., through notification 412
of FIG. 4). In this scenario, the key can be securely transmitted
to the electronic device through, for example, a secure wireless
network. As an illustration, this may allow a user to proceed
directly to their room rather than necessitating a trip to the
front desk to pick up their room key.
[0055] As is also generally indicated by diagram 600, a user can
view hotel amenities through the integrated application. For
example, interface 610 shows an exemplary user interface for
showcasing hotel amenities. In addition to hotel amenities, a user
can view and browse local restaurants, shops, attractions, and
other suitable services that are nearby the hotel. For example, an
integrated or associated mapping application can be used to allow a
user to search and browse the local services. In some embodiments,
a user can make reservations, purchases, or both at any suitable
hotel and local shops, restaurants, attractions, or other services.
For example, the electronic device can provide for a secure
connection to allow a user to transmit payment information (e.g.,
credit card information), or a reservations (e.g., restaurant
reservation) can be made over a wireless network, thus removing the
need for a user to telephone the restaurant.
[0056] In some embodiments, as is also indicated by diagram 600, a
user can find social acquaintances in the vicinity through the
integrated application. For example, a friend's electronic device
can include a positioning system to determine the friend's
location. The friend's electronic device can then transmit this
location information to the user's electronic device. In response
to determining that a friend is in the nearby vicinity, the
integrated application may then provide a notification to the user
that the friend is nearby, display a map showing the location of
the friend, provide contact information for the friend (e.g., from
a address book stored on or accessible by the electronic device),
or any combination of the above.
[0057] FIG. 7 shows diagram 700 of functions available to a user
within the hotel room in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention. For example, the functions of FIG. 7 may be available to
a user during in-room scenario 206 of FIG. 2. However, one skilled
in the art could appreciate that the functions of FIG. 7 are not
limited to an in-room scenario or to the particular functions
listed in FIG. 7, and rather may include any suitable functions or
may be used in any suitable scenario.
[0058] As shown in diagram 700, a user can control power, audio,
and video available in the room and enhance room settings. For
example, through the integrated application, the electronic device
can function as a universal remote controller allowing a user to
control audio and video available for playback. For example,
interface 702 shows an exemplary interface allowing a user to
control the channels of a television through electronic device 704.
Through interface 702, a user can additionally or alternatively
control a radio, a DVD player, a CD player, a coffee maker, or any
other suitable electronics and appliances within the hotel
room.
[0059] As another illustration, through the integrated application,
the electronic device can function as a universal remote to control
room settings. For example, a user can control light switches,
bathroom appliances or fixtures (e.g., start a bath with water at a
user defined temperature), temperature settings, or the settings of
other appliances of the hotel room. For example, interface 706
shows an exemplary interface allowing a user to control room
settings through electronic device 708. One skilled in the art
could appreciate that interface 706 may also allow a user to
control room settings when they outside of the hotel room or are in
a location outside of the hotel premises.
[0060] In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of using the
electronic device a universal remote controller, a user can connect
the electronic device to a dock for providing audio playback, video
playback, or both. For example, FIG. 8 shows audio system 800. In
audio system 800, electronic device 802 can couple to one or more
of speaker 804 through dock 806. As another example, FIG. 9 shows
video system 900. In video system 900, electronic device 902 can
couple to one or more video playback systems 904 (e.g., a
television, DVD player, Blu-ray player, any other suitable video
playback system, or any combination of the above) through dock 906.
Through audio system 800 and video system 900, a user can, for
example, play video and audio stored on electronic device 902
through video playback system 904 (e.g., play a movie that was half
finished on an airplane ride to the hotel).
[0061] In some embodiments, the electronic device can be used to
interface with a menu providing access to hotel services (e.g., a
menu displayed on the television screen of the user's room,
displayed on the electronic device, or both). Using the menu, the
user can order videos (e.g., movies available for purchase such as
movies-on-demand or movies available for free viewing), send
requests to the hotel (e.g., schedule a wake up call), or purchase
goods (e.g., toiletries, souvenirs, meals, or other goods) using
the existing hotel interface. For example, through the menu, a user
can browse various media (e.g., movies, music, or other suitable
media) available for purchase. The user may then access information
such as media title, media description, media price, media genre,
or other suitable information. After ordering a media item, the
media can be presented to the user through a system such as, for
example, audio system 800 of FIG. 8 or audio system 900 of FIG.
9.
[0062] In some embodiments, a user can specify user preferences and
profile information such as, for example, preferred genre,
preferred movie length, favorite music, favorite shows, age,
gender, or any other suitable information. Based on the user
preferences and profile information, the menu items of the
electronic device can be personalized for the user. For example,
the movies available for purchased can be prioritized such that
preferred movies are displayed more prominently (e.g., are
displayed at the top of the list, are the only movies displayed,
are displayed in bold, and the like). As another example, when the
electronic device is being used as a universal remote to control
television channels (e.g., interface 702 of FIG. 7), preferred
channels can be displayed more prominently. The preferred media and
channels can be determined based directly on the user preferences
and profile information (e.g., the preferred media matches a
preferred genre in the user preferences), may be determined
indirectly from user preferences and profile information (e.g.,
based on the user's age, media generally enjoyed by users of that
age group can be chosen), or a combination of the above.
[0063] FIG. 10 shows diagram 1000 of functions available to a user
for accessing hotel amenities and information regarding nearby
destinations in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
For example, the functions of FIG. 10 may be available to a user
during hotel amenities and destination scenario 208 of FIG. 2.
However, one skilled in the art could appreciate that the functions
of FIG. 10 are not limited to a hotel amenities and destination
scenario or to the particular functions listed in FIG. 10, and
rather may include any suitable functions or may be used in any
suitable scenario.
[0064] As generally indicated in diagram 1000, the user can make
restaurant reservations and view restaurant recommendations for
local restaurants through the integrated application. Moreover, the
user can book hotel amenities and on-site services such as, for
example, spa appointments, hotel restaurant reservations,
conference room reservations, or any other suitable hotel
amenities.
[0065] Moreover, in some embodiments, a user can view and browse
location based entertainment (e.g., local entertainment) through
the integrated application. For example, interface 1002 shows an
exemplary user interface for allowing a user to browse local
entertainment and attractions. Through an interface such as
interface 1002, a user can locate information on local restaurants,
movies, theatres, museums, or any other local attractions and
entertainment. In this manner, as the location information can be
provided through a portable electronic device carried by a user, a
user can be provided with a portable and convenient source of
"concierge information to go." Moreover, in addition to viewing and
browsing local entertainment, a user can make purchases. For
example, through a secure network for authorizing payment, (e.g.,
through a credit card system) a user can purchase movie tickets,
sports tickets, museum tickets, show tickets, theme park tickets,
or purchase any other suitable items.
[0066] As is also generally indicated in diagram 1000, guest
reminder can be provided to a user through the integrated
application of the electronic device. For example, a reminder such
as a wake-up call can be provided through the electronic device
(e.g., the electronic device can vibrate, sound an alarm, or
otherwise alert a user at the time of the wake-up call). As another
example, reminders of scheduled appointments can be provided
through the integrated application. For example, user interface
1004 shows an exemplary reminder 1006 that can be provided through
electronic device 1008. Reminder 1006 can be provided through any
suitable notification such as, for example, an e-mail notification,
a phone call, a pop-up notification, a push notification, or any
other suitable notification.
[0067] FIG. 11 shows diagram 1100 of functions available to a user
after checking out of a hotel in accordance with some embodiments
of the invention. For example, the functions of FIG. 11 may be
available to a user during post trip scenario 210 of FIG. 2.
However, one skilled in the art could appreciate that the functions
of FIG. 11 are not limited to post trip scenario or to the
particular functions listed in FIG. 11, and rather may include any
suitable functions or may be used in any suitable scenario.
[0068] As generally indicated in diagram 1100, the user can
checkout remotely through an "easy checkout." For example, as
illustrated by interface 1102, through the electronic device a user
can see information such as their hotel bill and room charges. A
user may then access additional or more detailed information
regarding room charges by choosing selections such as input 1104. A
user may complete a checkout by choosing a suitable option such as
input 1106.
[0069] Moreover, as is also indicated by diagram 1100, a user can
request transportation to a destination (e.g., a taxi to an
airport), and view rewards information. For example, as illustrated
by user interface 1108, a user can be provided with an opportunity
to enter, view, and modify rewards information. In some
embodiments, through the integrated application, and user can be
provides with offers from affiliate programs, purchase post-trip
items (e.g., souvenirs or other memorabilia), and view bounceback
offers. For example, FIG. 11 shows illustrative bounceback offer
1110 that can be received by electronic device 1112. A user can
accept a bounceback offer through any suitable means such as, for
example, through selectable option 1114.
[0070] In some embodiments, the electronic device can automatically
save and store receipts from the hotel and other service providers
(e.g., restaurants, transportation, entertainment, and attractions)
to facilitate the user's post-trip experience. For example, the
receipts can be gathered to aid a user in updating their budget or
to facilitate the reimbursement of expenses incurred on a business
trip.
[0071] The process discussed above is intended to be illustrative
and not limiting. Persons skilled in the art could appreciate that
steps of the process discussed herein can be omitted, modified,
combined, or rearranged, and any additional steps can be performed
without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0072] In addition, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill
in the art that methods involved in the invention may be embodied
in a computer program product that includes a machine readable
and/or usable medium. For example, such a computer usable medium
may consist of a read-only memory device, such as a CD ROM disk or
conventional ROM device, or a random access memory, such as a hard
drive device or a computer diskette, or flash memory device having
a computer readable program code stored thereon.
[0073] The above-described embodiments of the invention are
presented for purposes of illustration and not of limitation.
* * * * *