U.S. patent application number 13/405715 was filed with the patent office on 2012-06-21 for file sharing system for use with a network.
Invention is credited to Jehan Bing, Jerome Dubreull, Luc Julia, Yohan Le Nerriec, Maklouf Serghine.
Application Number | 20120158917 13/405715 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46326247 |
Filed Date | 2012-06-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120158917 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Julia; Luc ; et al. |
June 21, 2012 |
FILE SHARING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A NETWORK
Abstract
A directory view component runs on a host terminal. The
directory view component is configured to interface with a file
manager application resident on the host terminal. The file manager
application provides an interface to a directory of the host
terminal. The directory view component interfaces with the file
manager to generate view data of the directory for use on a remote
device.
Inventors: |
Julia; Luc; (Oakland,
CA) ; Serghine; Maklouf; (Newark, CA) ; Le
Nerriec; Yohan; (Palo Alto, CA) ; Bing; Jehan;
(Menlo Park, CA) ; Dubreull; Jerome; (San
Francisco, CA) |
Family ID: |
46326247 |
Appl. No.: |
13/405715 |
Filed: |
February 27, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11538800 |
Oct 4, 2006 |
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13405715 |
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10888606 |
Jul 9, 2004 |
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11538800 |
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60723683 |
Oct 4, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
709/219 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/6125 20130101;
H04N 21/47202 20130101; H04L 67/104 20130101; H04L 67/06 20130101;
H04N 1/00127 20130101; H04N 21/4788 20130101; H04L 67/16 20130101;
H04L 67/24 20130101; H04L 67/1048 20130101; H04L 67/1046
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
709/219 |
International
Class: |
G06F 15/16 20060101
G06F015/16 |
Claims
1. A system for sharing data from a host terminal, the system
comprising: a directory view component that is configured to
interface with a file manager application resident on the host
terminal, wherein the file manager application provides an
interface to a directory of the host terminal, the directory
including a plurality of files; wherein the directory view
component interfaces with the file manager application to generate
view data of the directory.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/538,800, filed Oct. 4, 2006 which:
[0002] (i) claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/723,683, filed Oct. 4, 2005, and
[0003] (ii) is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/888,606, filed Jul. 9, 2004, U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/888,633, filed Jul. 9, 2004 and U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/888,745, filed Jul. 9, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No.
7,937,484, issued May 3, 2011; all of the aforementioned priority
applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety
for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0004] The disclosed embodiments relate generally to the field of
networks. In particular, the disclosed embodiments relate to a
system and method for remotely controlling network resources.
BACKGROUND
[0005] There are an increasingly large number of devices that have
network connectivity. Over the years, network connectivity has been
extended to appliances such as refrigerators, home entertainment
centers, and interactive box sets for use with television sets,
digital cameras, and cell phones. With the evolution of these
devices, there has been developments in home networks. For example,
WIFI technology enables users to interconnect various network
enabled devices wirelessly to form their own local area network.
Various services and applications currently exist with the goal of
establishing data connectivity between different network locations.
The growth of the Internet and other types of networks has
contributed to the numerous networking applications that currently
exist.
[0006] There is also an interest in extending network connectivity
to devices that can roam. These devices include cell phones,
personal digital assistants (PDAs), and stations that can be
assembled on vehicles or airplanes. While wireless networks for
such roaming devices exist, these networks tend to have limited
bandwidth, and can be expensive. In addition, it is difficult for
operators of such devices to interact with networks, given that
these devices often have poor user-interface features, and limited
processing/memory resources for tasks that are often desired from
them.
[0007] Currently, there are various interoperability issues when
different types of network enabled devices are coupled. Often, the
different devices operate on incompatible platforms or operating
systems. This can cause problems in how these devices share data
with one another. Furthermore, connected devices may use different
data types (.WAV versus MPEG) and/or data formats that hinder the
user's ability to share data amongst devices. As an example, the
size of the screen display on a cell phone is typically too small
to render images from a digital camera, even if the cell phone is
camera-enabled. Often, the result is that when users want to share
data amongst connected devices, that user must perform numerous
manual steps, such as manually converting data formats.
[0008] There are various network applications that have pertinence
to this application. One common network application is Instant
Messaging (IM)--the service that establishes connectivity amongst
users in different locations for purpose of enabling those users to
send instant messages to each other. IM allows users to maintain a
community list (e.g. "buddy list"), and the list can be configured
to inform the user of the status of members in the community. The
status information may correspond to the status of a particular
member's terminal (if that member's computer is off, the status of
that member on the community list may be "signed off"). The status
information may also correspond to the status of the IM service or
application as it is operated on a particular member's terminal.
For example, a user may choose to close an IM application, in which
case other members may be notified that the particular member is
not available for messaging. The status information may also be
provided manually by the user. For example, some IM applications
allow the user to select a status ("stepped away"). In each case,
the status information provides a mechanism by which a user can
inform other select other users of a community of his or her
status.
[0009] PC ANYWHERE is a troubleshooting application that allows an
expert technician to remotely view a terminal for purpose of
troubleshooting and software configuration. A user of a recipient
terminal may request assistance from an expert. The user may need
to be present in order to provide the expert permission to access
his or her computer. When the expert logs on to a recipient
terminal, the expert can use the PC ANYWHERE application to view
the screen of the recipient terminal. The expert can also
manipulate the recipient terminal, such as open files and operate
applications. In turn, the recipient terminal may perform a series
of refresh operations in order to transmit visual data of the
recipient terminal's screen to the technician.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a system on which a personal network can
be implemented, according to an embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 2A describes a methodology that illustrates how a
personal network can be established, according to an
embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 2B illustrates how the personal network can be
maintained by tracking when satellites disconnect or otherwise
become unavailable on the personal network, under an
embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a method that illustrates how members of
a community network can join and receive real-time information
regarding a presence of other members in the community
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates data structures that can be used to
inform individual satellites of a personal network information
about other members in the personal network, according to an
embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a personal network formed from a
plurality of heterogeneous members interconnected across numerous
data transfer mediums.
[0016] FIG. 6 provides an illustrative example of an embodiment of
the invention.
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a basic method illustrating how linked
memory resources on a personal network may be used, according to an
embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a system for forming and using a combined
memory, under an embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 9 is a method to link memory from different locations
of a personal network, and to associate actions with specific
portions of the linked memory, under one embodiment of the
invention.
[0020] FIG. 10 illustrates a system for presenting contents of
memory resources on a personal network, under an embodiment of the
invention.
[0021] FIGS. 11A-11G illustrate various user-interfaces for use
with embodiments described herein.
[0022] FIG. 12A illustrates a system for enabling one satellite to
remotely control another satellite, under an embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 12B illustrates a system for enabling one satellite to
remotely control the use of data amongst a series of satellites,
under another embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 12C illustrates a system for enabling one satellite to
remotely control the application and use of data between two
satellites in tandem, under an embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates a method for enabling a first satellite
to receive a data stream from a second satellite, through the
control of the first satellite, under an embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates a method for implementing a transducer
on a personal network in order to transmit content to various kinds
of devices, under an embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 15 illustrates a system for sharing documents between
satellites, or between a satellite and a non-satellite, under an
embodiment of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 16 illustrates a communication platform that combines
functionality for enabling sharing of media and files, under an
embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 17 illustrates a web page created by a server for a
remote terminal, under an embodiment of the invention
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] A system and method are described for enabling users to
establish and define a network of devices and resources that are
personal to the particular user or class of users. Such networks
may be referred to as personal networks. Embodiments described
herein enable such personal networks to be established using
heterogeneous elements, such as, personal computers, software
applications, Internet accounts, digital cameras, media stations,
and network enabled appliances. The heterogeneous elements include
hardware, software, data and other resources having different
primary usages, operating systems, and/or platforms. In addition,
the personal network may encompass elements that are interconnected
over various types of data networks, including for example, the
Internet, the public switched telephony network, or a cellular
network. The connectivity established amongst the elements enables
various seamless operations to be performed. Many functional
aspects and benefits can be attained as a result of the
connectivity established through the personal network.
[0031] Embodiments described herein provide that a personal network
of heterogeneous elements may be presented and used as a single
entity. The elements of the network may be referred to as
satellites. In one embodiment, individual satellites in the
personal network may communicate directly with some or all of the
other satellites. A given satellite may receive data indicating a
connectivity status for at least some of the other satellites. The
given satellite may also receive information indicating a
connectivity status for the one or more other satellites. In
addition, the given satellite is configured to enable at least one
other satellite in the personal network to be available for its
use. This allows the given satellite to use the capability of
another satellite.
[0032] The term "satellite" may includes a designated element for a
personal network that is capable of direct communications with one
or more other elements of the network. Examples of satellites that
can be used with embodiments described herein include a device, an
application, a set of data, or a resource such as a third-party
Internet account. In one embodiment, each satellite in a personal
network corresponds to an elements having an interface that enables
that satellite to communicate directly with other satellites,
particularly when the other satellites are provided the same or a
compatible interface. The direct communications amongst satellites
may correspond to peer-to-peer communications.
[0033] Embodiments described herein provide numerous advantages and
benefits. Among the advantages, users can operate the various
devices and applications that form their personal network through a
single interface and from multiple devices or network locations.
The functionality of the network devices can be made uniform and
simple, so that the user does not have to learn and apply different
operating procedures to accommodate different devices, operating
systems, data types and/or applications. Data can also be treated
more uniformly. For example, the user does not have to match
specific media players for select data types.
[0034] Additionally, the resources of the personal network,
including for example, the media library and media sources, can be
made available to multiple heterogeneous devices, including devices
that were not originally designed or suited for such functionality.
For example, television transmissions can be redirected to various
display-carrying elements of a user's personal network. But other
than displays, it is possible that the elements do not necessarily
have a primary or intended usage for displaying video and/or
television signals. For example, in the case of a cell phone, the
original manufacturing usage may be to enable users to view dialed
and received phone numbers, emails and text content, and possibly
low-resolution images. However, if such a device is configured as a
network satellite or element, the device may be modified to receive
media feeds.
[0035] Another embodiment described herein enable a user to control
one or more other applications, either at the same time or in
tandem. For example, a PDA can be provided a remote control
application to control another device, or how data is handled by
multiple devices in tandem. Various other benefits and advantages
will be made more clear in this application.
[0036] According to an embodiment, the establishment of a personal
network enables memory resources located at various locations and
on multiple devices to be combined so as to have the appearance of
a single entity. According to one embodiment, a combined memory may
be defined by linking memory provided at different network
locations of the personal network. The combined memory may traverse
across multiple machines, operating systems, networks and network
domains, and may even be distributed under the control of two or
more entities. An association may be formed between a memory
location in the combined memory and a known component or device
that can communicate with the personal network. The component may
correspond to a satellite or non-satellite. The association may be
between an action or event performed or detected by the component
and the memory location. Once the associated action or event is
detected as occurring by the component, data related to that action
or event may automatically be transmitted to and stored at the
first memory location.
[0037] A known component or device may correspond to a component
that has a known user (e.g. someone who has a password and login to
the personal network, or a gateway on the personal network). The
known component or device may also correspond to a device that has
a history of use with the personal network, or can otherwise be
verified as being trustworthy. In many cases described herein, a
roaming device may be a known component, but not a satellite.
Non-satellite devices may lack the interface, or otherwise be
precluded (such as by firewall) from forming direct, bi-directional
communications with other satellites. Non-satellite devices may
still include some components that permit a limited access to the
personal network, such as a browser to view web content, etc.
[0038] Other embodiments describe different uses and applications
for a personal network. The plurality of satellites may be
interconnected to form at least a part of a personal network. Each
satellite may an interface (such as an application program
interface) for communicating with one or more other satellites. On
a roaming device, an embodiment provides that data is automatically
received to indicate a connectivity status for one or more of the
plurality of satellites.
[0039] In another embodiment, data structures may be associated
with each of a plurality of satellites that form the personal
network. Each data structure may carry data that indicates a
connectivity status for at least some of the other satellites, and
a capability of at least some of the other satellites. The data
structure may be automatically updated on at least some of the
satellites in the personal network when (i) an additional satellite
is interconnected to be on the personal network, or (ii) another
satellite is disconnected from the personal network. According to
embodiments, the data structure may be in the form of a table,
database, or relational data structure.
[0040] Data stored in the data structure of one satellite and
corresponding to the capability of another satellite may provide
information about the other satellite's characteristics. These
characteristics may include, for example, a processor type or
capability used by the other satellite, a memory size available to
the other satellite, a display size, a display resolution, and a
bandwidth of network connection for the other satellite.
[0041] A personal network may be used to share information about
desired media and media programs. In an embodiment, a satellite of
a personal network may be configured to receive data corresponding
to select media programs. These media programs may be provided over
channels of an external media programming source (such as cable or
satellite television). The user may specify what programs are of
interest to him through interaction with a satellite in the
personal network. Through the interaction, a schedule may be made
available for one or more of the satellites. The schedule may also
be made available to registered components of the personal network,
such as roaming, non-satellite devices. The schedule may list
programs of interest for the user, based on the user's
interest.
[0042] In an embodiment, the user may change his or her selection
of media programs. This change may be detected by the user. The
schedule may then be updated for use by one or more of the
plurality of interconnected satellites
[0043] According to another embodiment, a user may interconnect a
plurality of satellites to form a personal network. A plurality of
locations may be identified that form at least a part of the
personal network. The satellites may be provided at the network
locations. A plurality of items may be selected by the user and
provided at each of the plurality of network locations. A plurality
of items may be selected by the user and provided at each of the
plurality of network locations. An aggregate presentation of the
plurality of items may be formulated and provided.
[0044] Change to the items in the combined memory may in turn
generate an automatic update or change in the aggregated
presentation of the content. These changes may include the addition
or deletion of a particular item.
[0045] Another embodiment enables applications for to use one
satellite (including a device or application) to remotely control
one or more other satellites. Additional embodiments enable one
satellite to control multiple satellites in tandem.
[0046] According to one embodiment, a satellite interconnected to
form part of the personal network is enabled to (i) access media
resources on at least a second satellite in the plurality of
satellites, (ii) initiate the second satellite to perform an
operation for generating a media output from one or more of the
media resources, (iii) direct the second satellite to stream data
corresponding to the media output to the first satellite, and (iv)
generate a remote media output from the streamed data.
[0047] Furthermore, one or more embodiments described herein may be
implemented through the use of instructions that are executable by
one or more processors. These instructions may be carried on a
computer-readable medium. Machines shown in figures below provide
examples of processing resources and computer-readable mediums on
which instructions for implementing embodiments of the invention
can be carried and/or executed. In particular, the numerous
machines shown with embodiments of the invention include
processor(s) and various forms of memory for holing data and
instructions. Examples of computer-readable mediums include
permanent memory storage devices, such as hard drives on personal
computers or servers. Other examples of computer storage mediums
include portable storage units, such as CD or DVD units, flash
memory (such as carried on many cell phones and PDAs), and magnetic
memory. A computer-readable medium as used herein may extend across
multiple machines. For example, the medium may be distributed
between client and server in order to perform a stated task or
operation.
[0048] Architecture Overview
[0049] FIG. 1 illustrates a system on which a personal network can
be implemented, according to an embodiment. As shown, a personal
network 102 is formed in part by a first satellite 110, second
satellite 120, and third satellite 130. In one embodiment, each
satellite 110, 120, 130 is provided on a separate device (see e.g.
FIG. 3). However, a satellite may also correspond to an application
or data set residing on a particular device, so that the particular
device can include multiple satellites. In one embodiment, a
satellite corresponds to any application, sequence of instructions,
or set of data which can be provided an interface (such as an
application program interface or API) for other use by other
applications. In particular, two or more heterogeneous applications
may be enabled to communicate with one another through use of a
similarly configured API for purpose of allowing at least one
application to control or otherwise use another application. For
example, a satellite may correspond to a commercially available
media player application that has been recompiled to include a
reconfigured API for use with other similarly configured (but
perhaps heterogeneous) applications. As will be described, an
embodiment provides that the API accommodates a heterogeneous
network.
[0050] A repository 140 is coupled to communicate with each
satellite 110, 120, 130. As will be described, the repository 140
maintains an identification of each satellite actively connected to
the personal network 102, as well as a description of a capability
of each such satellite. The repository 140 may correspond to a
satellite that performs, as part of its operations, the task of
maintaining a table or master list of such information about all
other satellites in the personal network. Each satellite 110, 120,
130 may also communicate with one or more of the other satellites
directly. In one embodiment, communications between the repository
140 and each of the satellites 110, 120, 130 is of a server-client
relationship, while communications amongst satellites is of a
peer-to-peer nature. In the context of embodiments described, one
difference between client-server and peer-to-peer communications is
that with client-server communications, communications between two
satellites (that are not servers) requires communications with at
least one intermediary--that being the server. First, one satellite
would have to exchange communications with the server, then the
server would forward that communication by exchanging
communications with the other satellite. In many situations, this
can be disadvantageous, because the server can create a
bottle-neck. In peer-to-peer communications, the intermediary
server can be avoided, as communications between two satellites is
direct.
[0051] The personal network 102 may be formed by interconnecting
satellites across multiple types of communication mediums. In an
example provided by FIG. 1, a local area network (LAN) 112 is used
to couple (indirectly or directly) the first satellite 110 to the
repository 140. A local communication link 122 is used to couple
the second satellite 120 to the repository 140. A public network
132, such as the Internet, is used to couple the third satellite
130 to the repository 140. Once the personal network 102 is
established, access to satellites and/or the resources of the
personal network may be made through use of public networks such as
the Internet. In one embodiment, resources available on the
personal network are presented, made viewable or otherwise
accessible to the user (or to those with permission to access the
network) as a single entity. For example, files, content, programs
and other resources may be presented in an aggregated fashion,
under a single user-interface, so that the user is unaware where
the different resources originated from. Thus, for example, a user
may define the satellites of the personal network 102, then
subsequently access the personal network 102 from any remote
location to view resources on the personal network as if the
personal network was one computer or network element.
[0052] In an embodiment, satellites 110, 120, 130 may communicate
with repository 140 and with each other. While satellites 110, 120,
130 are connected and disconnected, the repository 140 may always
be active on the personal network. Accordingly, the repository 140
may be made redundant, and running on different locations. In
addition, the contents of the repository 140 may be archived. The
communication amongst satellites or between a particular satellite
and the repository may be direct or indirect. For example, while
FIG. 1 illustrates the local communication link 122 extending
between the second satellite 120 and the repository 140, the local
communication link 122 may actually extend between the second
satellite 120 and another satellite. Thus, for example, the first
satellite 110 and the second satellite 120 may be connected using
the local communication link 122, so that the second satellite 120
may be interconnected to one or both of the other satellites 110,
130 and the repository 140 using both the local communication link
and the LAN 112.
[0053] In FIG. 1, the third satellite 130 is illustrated as a
non-mobile or non-roaming device that connects to form part of the
personal network 102 over the Internet. In an embodiment, the third
satellite 130 communicates with one or more other satellites 110,
120 and the repository 140 using a gateway or proxy 128. For
example, the gateway 128 may provide access to a home network, on
which the repository 140 and one or more of the other satellites
resides. The third satellite 130 may use the gateway 128 to
establish communications with the other satellites and the
repository 140. Resources of the personal network may be made
available to other types of remote network sites. Furthermore,
other remote sites may be made part of the personal network, or
otherwise used to contribute to the personal network. In one
embodiment, a roaming device 135 may access the personal network
102. The roaming device 135 may be a satellite, in that it includes
an API that can communicate with or receive communications from
other satellites. Alternatively, the roaming device 135 may be a
non-satellite, in that it includes no API, but has other
applications with limited ability to use or work with certain
resources on the personal network. For example, the roaming device
135 may include a browser to enable it to view content from the
personal network, and perhaps perform certain actions (such as send
files that are handled by the personal network). Still further, the
roaming device 135 may correspond to a quasi-satellite, in that it
may have limited permissions or usability on the personal network
as compared to other satellites, but otherwise includes an API is
used to communicate with or receive communications from other
satellites. The roaming device 135 may also use the Internet, or a
wireless network (such as a cellular network) to establish the
connection. While third satellite 130 may have a designated
location of known IP address, roaming devices may connect to the
personal network 102 from any location.
[0054] In addition to roaming device 135, access to the personal
network 102 may be made through a web-service 133. In an
embodiment, an Internet site may be provided as a service to enable
or assist subscribers/users to establish personal networks. The
users may provide content, resources, configuration instructions,
and/or other information to establish, configure, and/or provide
resources or content on their own respective personal network. In
an embodiment, the user may also have limited use (such as to view
or otherwise consume content) of the personal network, similar to
that of a non-satellite roaming device, described above. In another
embodiment, the web service 133 can be used to make any Internet
terminal a point form which a user can provide such information for
his or her personal network. It is possible for the web service 133
to act as an interface to provide satellite or quasi-satellite
functionality to any Internet terminal.
[0055] In an embodiment, personal network 102 may comprise
resources, and in particular, user-designated resources, which are
made available over public networks, such as the Internet. For
example, a designated, third-party Internet site 138 on which a
user's data or application is maintained may be made an element of
the personal network 102. An example of the designated network
location 138 may be a personal account for maintaining files (such
as pictures or media) on a storage medium provided by a third party
Internet site (e.g. YAHOO! BRIEFCASE). These locations may be
linked with the satellites 110, 120, 130 to form the personal
network 102. Once linked, content may be selected or otherwise
provided from the designated network location 138 to other
satellites on the personal network 102. Alternatively, resources
such as memory may be made available to other satellites in the
personal network 102.
[0056] As described by embodiments, personal network 102 combines
the interoperability and availability of heterogeneous elements. In
operation, elements of the personal network 102 may aggregate
content, data, applications, and resources to maintain an
appearance a single entity. Furthermore, as will be described in
greater detail, satellites in the personal network 102 may
cooperate with and use each other's capabilities even though the
satellites are heterogeneous elements. Thus, the satellites
cooperate with one another in a manner that is seamless and
platform independent.
[0057] According to an embodiment, at least some of the
capabilities for each satellite are known and accounted for in the
personal network 102. The repository 140 maintains a record of each
satellite's known capabilities, including the operations it can
perform, and the limitations or requirements that must be accounted
for in using that satellite. This includes specific functionality
provided by each satellite, interoperability requirements of each
satellite, any hardware limitations presented by a satellite or a
device on which the satellite is provided, and bandwidth
limitations of the particular satellite. Information about each
satellite's capabilities may be provided in the form of code. In
one embodiment, a natural language code is used to record
information about each device's capabilities. In addition to
satellite identification and capability information, the repository
140 may maintain status information and location information for
each satellite. The status information may indicate whether a
satellite is connected or not connected to the personal network.
Alternatively, the status information may be maintained by only
recording the presence of active satellites on the personal network
102. The location information may correspond to the local IP
address of a device on which the satellite resides. In the case of
satellite 120, which is connected to the personal network 102 via
local link 122, the location information may correspond to an
identifier of that satellite and an IP address of the device or
network location to which that satellite is connected.
[0058] While some capabilities are known, an embodiment provides
that other capabilities of individual satellites are determined
on-the-fly. This is particular the case with capabilities that are
prone to fluctuate, such as bandwidth. For example, the bandwidth
of a wireless device may vary, depending on the time of day or
location of the wireless device. One embodiment provides that
another satellite queries or tests a satellite of interest for a
particular set of capabilities. For example, the testing satellite
may attempt to send the satellite of interest a file, and measure
the time or amount of bandwidth that was available for that
operation. Once the determination is made, the testing satellite
can pass the information to a satellite that actually wants to use
the satellite of interest. In one embodiment, the testing satellite
has a dedicated function or role, although other embodiments
provide that the testing satellite and the satellite that wants to
use the satellite of interest are the same. The testing satellite
may correspond to the repository 140, or to a dedicated
satellite.
[0059] While satellites in the personal network 102 may communicate
with one another and use each other's capabilities, it may be
assumed that each satellite does not need to communicate or use
every other satellite. Rather, each satellite may have a set of
pertinent satellites on the personal network 102 that it may
communicate with and use. For example, a digital camera application
may require use of satellites that include photo imaging
application and photograph printer driver, but the camera
application will have no need of an audio playback component. Thus,
the set of pertinent satellites for the digital camera do not
include the audio playback component.
[0060] In an embodiment, each satellite 110, 120, 130 includes an
associated data structure that maintains information about the
pertinent set of satellites for that satellite. The first satellite
110 includes a first local data structure 114, second satellite 120
includes a second local data structure 124, and third satellite 130
includes a third local data structure 134. It is also possible for
two satellites to share a local data structure, such as in the case
where two satellites reside on a common machine or are
interconnected by local connections. Each of the satellites 110,
120, 130 may use their respective local data structures 114, 124,
134 in order to access, locate and use other satellites in the
personal network. The local data structures 114, 124, 134 may each
receive their information from the repository 140. Thus, the
information maintained in the local data structures 114, 124, 134
may be in the same form as the information maintained in the
repository 140. In either case, the local data structure may serve
as a means to reduce the amount of information that needs to be
maintained for a particular satellite. Once information is
transferred from the repository 140 to the local data structures
114, 124, 134, the respective satellites 110, 120, 130 may avoid
having to make requests for such information from the repository.
While it is possible to provide information to the satellites
exclusively from the repository 140 without implementing local data
structures 114, 124, 134, the use of the local data structures
provides a more efficient and secure means for making necessary
information available to the respective satellites 110, 120, 130.
This is particularly true in the case where satellites are
interconnected through large or public networks.
[0061] It should be noted that while a home network is one context
for the personal network 102, implementations may be used in which
the personal network exists separate from the home network. For
example, a user's personal network and home network may share some
satellites, but some devices or applications of the home network
may not be shared with the personal network, and vice-versa.
[0062] Establishing the Personal Network
[0063] FIG. 2A describes a methodology that illustrates how a
personal network, such as described in FIG. 1, may be established.
The satellites and components described with FIG. 2A may or may not
coincide with elements of FIG. 1. For brevity, the connectivity
medium of the satellites described in FIG. 2A, or specifics as to
how the satellites operate with other satellites, will not be
detailed again.
[0064] FIG. 2A illustrates a first satellite 210, second satellite
220, and third satellite 230, each of which is interconnected to a
repository 240. Each satellite 210, 220, 230 corresponds to one of
a data set, application or device. Furthermore, each satellite 210,
220, 230 includes a corresponding application program interface
(API) 212 to enable one satellite to communicate with another
satellite, or to provide access to the other satellite. The API 212
enables connectivity amongst satellites 210, 220, 230 in order to
enable the satellites to share and/or receive capabilities, content
and other resources. The API 212 also enables the satellites 210,
220, 230 to communicate with the repository 240 in order to receive
connectivity information and other information about the other
satellites. Each satellite 210, 220, 230 is one of a data set,
application or device that either includes the API 212 as an
integrated component, or is capable of being used when the API 212
is provided to it. In the latter case, the satellite may correspond
to a commercially available application (perhaps provided by a
third party) that can be recompiled or reconfigured to include API
212.
[0065] In an embodiment, a personal network may be established by
individual satellites joining the personal network. Initially, the
repository 240 may be established, and additional satellites are
added to form the personal network on which the second satellite
220 and third satellite 230 are already members. FIG. 2A
illustrates a case where first satellite 210 is added to the
personal network. A request 202 is made by the first satellite 210
to the repository 240 to join. The request 202 is a client-server
type communication. Included in the request are instructions
containing information about the capabilities of the first
satellite 210. Additional information describing the first
satellite 210 to the repository 240 may also be included. The
additional information may include data identifying a location of
the first satellite (e.g. IP address).
[0066] The repository 240 receives request 202, and records the
information, including the instructions and the location of the
first satellite 210. In response to receiving the request 202, the
repository 240 sends out a communication 204. According to one
embodiment, the communication 204 is sent out to all of the
satellites that are actively connected to be in the personal
network. The communication 204 includes information about all of
the active satellites in the personal network. As such, the
communication 204 provides information to each satellite about what
satellites are part of the personal network at a given moment when
the first satellite 210 joins. The information in the communication
204 may also include the capabilities and location of each device
actively connected to be part of the personal network.
[0067] According to another embodiment, the repository 240 includes
intelligence to be able to determine what satellites are pertinent
to the newly joined first satellite 210. The communication 204 may
only be sent out to the pertinent satellites, rather than broadcast
to all satellites. This provides one mechanism by which the
satellites can maintain local data structures (e.g. 114, 124, 134)
that omit information about non-pertinent satellites. In one
embodiment, repository 240 may acquire the intelligence for
determining what satellites are pertinent to the first satellite
from the first satellite itself, and specifically from the request
202 or other notification from the first satellite. Alternatively,
the repository 240 may maintain or have access to a master library
that includes lists of pertinent satellites for any given
satellite. Still further, as another alternative, each satellite
may include its own intelligence to determine what information
contained in communication 204 is about non-pertinent satellites
and can be omitted.
[0068] Once communication 204 is completed, the first satellite 210
can be assumed to be part of the personal network 202. It is then
possible then for communications to be made to the first satellite
210 from other satellites. In the personal network, one satellite
may use a service provided by another satellite. A service is part
of the capabilities described for a particular satellite. Thus, the
capabilities of each satellite may include the service provided by
that satellite, as well as limitations or features of the
particular satellite. In, for example, a case where first satellite
210 needs a service from second satellite 220, the first satellite
makes a request 206 directly to the second satellite. The request
206 may be a peer-to-peer communication, as opposed to a
client-server communication. The second satellite 208 may then
generate a response 208, which establishes that the second
satellite 220 will provide the requested service to the first
satellite 210.
[0069] As an alternative, request 206 may not be specific to second
satellite 220, but rather a broadcast or announcement sent on the
personal network. This may occur in an embodiment where the first
satellite 210 does not know the capabilities of other satellites,
or when more than one satellite can provide the requested service.
An available satellite that is capable of providing the requested
service may then generate the response 208.
[0070] According to an embodiment illustrated by FIG. 2B, the
personal network may be maintained by tracking when satellites
disconnect or otherwise become unavailable on the personal network.
For example, second satellite 220 may be disconnected. In an
embodiment, second satellite 220 may be disconnected from the
personal network in a manner similar to the first satellite 210
joining the personal network. That is, second satellite 220 sends a
notification 212 to be disconnected. Since the request is to be
discontinued, the notification 212 may not include information,
such as a description of the capabilities or location of the second
satellite. Upon receiving the notification 212, the repository 240
may provide a communication 214. The communication 214 may be
broadcast to all of the satellites (excluding first satellite 210).
The communication 214 may contain information about the satellites
that are actively connected to the personal network. In one
embodiment, communication 204 and 214 are substantially similar,
except they include information from the repository 240 at
different times. As with communication 204, an embodiment may
provide that the communication 214 is sent to the satellites that
are pertinent to second satellite 220.
[0071] FIG. 3 is a method that illustrates how members of a
community network can join and receive real-time information
regarding a presence of other members in the community. An example
of the community referenced herein includes a personal network. An
example of an application of such a method is the participation of
any satellites 210, 220, 230 in the personal network described with
FIGS. 2A and 2B.
[0072] In step 310, a member joins the community. In joining the
network, a central location (such as repository 240 in FIGS. 2A and
2B) is provided information about the new member. This information
may be provided by the new joining member. The information may
include instructions that other members in the community can use to
communicate with the new joining member. The event of the member
joining the community may occur automatically when the member is
activated. For example, each of the satellites 210, 220, 230 (see
FIGS. 2A and 2B) may include instructions that cause that satellite
to automatically seek out and join a designated community or
personal network whenever a device of that satellite is turned on.
Alternatively, the member may be directed to the personal network
manually, or on the occurrence of some event such as a schedule or
alarm. Depending on the capabilities of the member, the member may
seek out the personal network over the Internet, a LAN, home
network, cellular network or other data-carrying network.
[0073] Once the member joins the community, step 320 provides that
information regarding all members in the community at that
particular instance is broadcast to all other members in the
community. In an embodiment, the information may be determined from
a structure such as repository 240. Since the community may extend
across numerous types of networks (e.g. LAN and Internet), the
broadcast may be made so that it can be transmitted across various
types of networks. In one implementation, a hypertext transfer
protocol (HTTP) message is transmitted, with the root path of the
message specifying the network (Internet, LAN etc.) on which the
recipient is connected. The newly joined member also receives the
broadcast. In an embodiment, each member retains information from
the broadcast about other members in the community that are
pertinent to that member.
[0074] After joining the community, step 330 provides that the new
member may request a service from the other members. The new member
may maintain a list of other members in the community that are
pertinent to it. The list may include specific capabilities or
services offered by other members, and instructions for
communicating with each pertinent member. The list may also provide
a location of each pertinent member. The service that is requested
may be in response to an action that is to be performed or has been
performed by the new member. For example, a user may request an
action to be performed that requires the cooperation of another
member. In one application, a user may request to view a set of
digital pictures using a photo-editor service. While using the
photo-editor service, the user may request another service to print
select pictures at a remote site. As an alternative, the new member
may provide access to another service provided by another member at
a different location. For example, the user may request a digital
video recorder to record a television program from the user's
office.
[0075] After use, step 340 provides that the member may also be
disconnected from the community. For example, the member may
correspond to a particular service that runs on a user's work
station. When the user leaves work and logs-off, the particular
member may disconnect from the remainder of the personal network,
which may include elements from the user's home network. According
to an embodiment, a member disconnects by first sending a request
to a central location (such as the repository 240 in FIGS. 2A and
2B). The request is processed from the central location.
[0076] In response to processing the request, step 350 provides
that the other active members in the community are informed of the
member that disconnected. In one embodiment, a broadcast is sent to
the active members. The broadcast simply includes a list of the
active members (as well as their capabilities, location and other
information). The other members receive the broadcast and reset
their understanding of the other members in the community.
[0077] FIG. 4 illustrates data structures that can be used to
provide information to satellites about other members in the
personal network, according to an embodiment of the invention. In
FIG. 4, a repository 410 (may correspond to repository 140 in FIG.
1) shares data with data structures 420, 430 and 440 (which may
correspond to the data structures 114, 124, 134 of respective
satellites). As mentioned, the repository 410 maintains a master
list of the satellites and other elements of the personal network,
while the respective data structures maintain subsets of the master
list. In an embodiment, the data structures 420, 430, 440 are each
maintained in association with one or more corresponding
satellites. While FIG. 4 illustrates use of separate data
structures for individual satellites, it is possible for satellites
that reside at a common location, or on a common device to share a
common data structure. It is also possible for satellites that are
closely integrated (such as executable on a shared platform) but on
different platforms to share a common data structure.
[0078] In an example provided by FIG. 4, each of the repository 410
and the data structures 420, 430 and 440 are structured as tables.
With respect to repository 410, there is a first column 412
containing identifiers to individual satellites and other members
of the personal network. While satellites 412 may correspond to
services that run on a user of the personal network's device or
resource, elements identified in the first column 412 may also
include third-party services offered over public networks. Examples
of such networks include POP Internet email accounts, YAHOO! PHOTOS
and BRIEFCASE, online music services (APPLE iTUNES) and public file
sharing networks. At least with respect to satellites, a second
column 414 may be provided in which a capability of the satellite
is provided. While the contents of second column 414 (or other
columns) may be in code, the code may also be descriptive to an
administrator. One type of capability listed in the column 414 may
be a service that can be performed by the satellite. The service
may be described as a list of functions or operations. Another type
of capability listed in the column 414 may provide considerations
or aspects on the satellite and/or the device on which the
satellite resides on. This information may be listed explicitly, or
implicitly via reference to a library. In addition to the
capabilities, other information such as the location of the
satellite may be provided in a third column 416. Other columns may
be added as needed.
[0079] The capabilities listed in second column 414 may be
processed by other satellites who wish to use the particular
satellite being described. In one embodiment, the information
provided in the repository 410, and with the second column 414 in
particular, are provided as a natural language code. The natural
language code presents code with syntax and semantics that
correlate to a natural language, such as English. For example, a
natural English code facilitates users to view and edit the
repository 410. The natural language code may be created so as to
not discriminate between devices, platforms, and/or operating
systems.
[0080] In FIG. 4, three examples of satellites are described in
repository 410. A first satellite in the repository 410 is for a
printer driver. The printer driver may be for an associated printer
that is connected on the personal network. The service described in
second column 414 for the printer driver is "display". The location
of the printer driver in the third column 416 may be provided in
the form of a LAN address. A second satellite in the repository 410
is for a photo server. The service described for the photo server
is to retrieve (locate and copy) photo files. The location of the
photo server may correspond to the same LAN address as the printer
server, as both satellites may be located on a common computer in
the personal network. In an example provided, a third satellite in
the repository 410 may be for a media player. The service described
is to playback media. The location of the third satellite may
coincide with the location of the other satellites.
[0081] In an embodiment, the data structures 420, 430, 440 list
rows from the repository 410 that are pertinent to the particular
satellite associated with the respective data structure.
Non-pertinent satellites (those providing services that will never
be used by a given satellite) may be omitted from the data
structure of the given satellite. With respect to the first data
structure 420 for the first satellite, the rows listed may include
the photo server, as the printer driver may need the photo server
to locate a particular file (see an example provided with FIG. 6).
With respect to the second data structure 430 for the second
satellite, the printer driver and the media player may both be
pertinent satellites, as the media player may be used to display
images, provided by the photo server. The third data structure 440
may list the photo server as a relevant service.
[0082] Heterogeneous Aspect
[0083] FIG. 5 illustrates a personal network formed from a
plurality of heterogeneous members interconnected across numerous
data transfer mediums. The heterogeneous members (or satellites)
may be provided on and/or correspond to devices that operate on
different platforms (e.g. wireless) or use different operating
systems. The heterogeneous members may also correspond to
applications or data that are configured for such different
platforms or operating systems, as well as applications that are
otherwise not capable of being interfaced with one another, without
external intervention. A personal network may be established by a
user, or a community of users, based on devices, applications, and
data of that user or community.
[0084] In an example such as shown in FIG. 5, the personal network
includes a local network domain 502 and a public network domain
504. Additional or fewer domains may be used, depending on the
needs of the user or the community. Satellites in the personal
network, either individually or in combination with other
satellites, may provide one or more service. FIG. 5 illustrates
examples of devices that may be interconnected by the personal
network, either as satellites or through the user of satellites. In
the example provided, the devices include a video recorder 510, a
digital camera 512, a printer 514, a media center 516, a personal
computer 518, a personal digital assistant (PDA) 520, a portable
computer (e.g. laptop) 522, a digital video recorder 524 (such as
provided by TiVo). In the example provided, the devices are
interconnected on the local network domain 502. Other network
domains may be added to the personal network, using networks such
as the Internet, or the public switched telephony network (PSTN).
In addition, the resources available on the public network domain
504 (such as the Internet) may be provided for use in the personal
network. These resources include, for example, network locations
505 on which files are stored (e.g. YAHOO! BRIEFCASE), Internet
email accounts, and Internet media services (APPLE iTUNES).
[0085] Satellites may be used to enable the devices to interface
and cooperate with one another in an active and responsive manner.
To this end, individual satellites may reside on one or more
devices to interface with a corresponding device, including to
retrieve or accept data from the corresponding device, to provide
data to the corresponding device, and/or to control the
corresponding device. A satellite may either be configured to
interface with the corresponding device, or the corresponding
device may be provided an interface for accepting communications
with the corresponding satellite. The location of the satellites
may be distributed and/or centralized. In one embodiment, the
location of the satellites are focused in a location selected by
the user. A primary location of the satellites may correspond to
the most powerful and connected computer machine on the personal
network. In the example provided by FIG. 5, this location may
correspond to the user's personal computer, laptop or media center.
However, specialized satellites may be configured especially for
smaller devices. For example, a remote control application with a
remote control interface may be provided for the PDA 520. The PDA
520 may use a network connection to control applications, or other
devices on the network.
[0086] In an embodiment, the personal network, its resources,
and/or its elements may be accessible from external sites via the
Internet or any other data network. Additionally, another web
service 530 may be provided to enable a user to configure the
personal network based on the user's desired capabilities,
services, and devices. The web service 530 may receive
user-information on (i) what devices, applications, and data sets
the user wishes to make available on the personal network, (ii)
information about the specific models the user has, including the
capabilities of such devices, (iii) account information for the
accounts on the public network domain 504. The user-information may
provide additional configurations as well. These may include
selections of media files or media sources, what may be viewed as
channels, and what devices may perform functions or use particular
services. In one embodiment, any user-input for specifying,
configuring or otherwise enabling an aspect or service of the
personal network may be made through the web service 530.
[0087] In an embodiment, access to elements of the personal network
may be provided to a roaming device 540. Roaming devices may
include, for example, smart phones (such as web-enabled cellular
phones), or WIFI enabled devices that locate and communicate with
the personal network from a WIFI station. Services may be provided
to extend functionality of the roaming device 540 with respect to
the personal network. For example, the services may enable the
roaming device 540 to deliver files to the personal network for
storage and/or consumption by other devices, to view files and
content stored on the personal network, to playback or reproduce
media from media files stored on the personal network, and to
playback media from the various media sources. Embodiments
described herein provide that a roaming device has access to a
personal network either as a satellite, or as a non-satellite. As a
satellite, the roaming device is equipped with an API to handle
communications with other satellite. But since the roaming device
connection is temporary, network security preferences may designate
the roaming device to have certain limited functions as a
non-satellite. These functions include browser capabilities to view
data on the personal network. To accommodate this, a web-service or
other satellite may format data to accommodate browsers. In
addition, certain actions that are native to applications on the
roaming device may be configured into and accommodated by the
personal network. For example, as described in later embodiments,
the roaming device may include a program to cause it to
automatically send a captured image or recorded media to the
personal network. A satellite on the personal network may also be
configured to handle and store the captured image or media at an
appropriate place.
[0088] In addition to interfacing one or more local network domains
502 and public network domains 504, the personal network may be
configured to handle media, including to accept media from
different sources, to store and distribute media, and to make media
available to the different devices. To this end, the media sources
may be include one or more of the following: cable media feed 532
(e.g. television and radio channels), satellite media feed 534
(e.g. television and radio channels, XM radio), live streaming
events 536 delivered from the World Wide Web (e.g. Internet
television), broadcast media 538 (FM radio, AM radio, regular
television), and streaming media sources 542 on the Internet
(NAPSTER, APPLE iTUNES). In an embodiment, the different media
sources are fed to the media center 516, which then processes the
various forms of data. Services provided on or made available to
the media center 516 may be used to then make various media from
the different sources available to the personal network.
[0089] Creating a Personal Network
[0090] An embodiment provides that a user (or a community of users)
may establish a personal network by installing an open repository
proprietary ("ORB") application on one or more devices that are to
be part of the user's personal network. One installation results in
the formation of the repository (see element 240 FIGS. 2A and 2B).
An embodiment provides that on each device, the installation
creates one or more satellites that provide corresponding services.
In one scenario, the installation may provide a newly installed
application on a device, while in another scenario, the
installation causes the recompilation of one or more existing
applications. The recompilation provides an interface to enable the
existing application to communicate with the repository. Such an
application is sometimes referred to as being "ORB-enabled". In
either case, the interface provides the mechanism by which
individual satellites (whether newly installed or recompiled
existing application) communicate with one another.
[0091] Each ORB application or interface may include a set of
instructions that are redundant in objective, but written for a
particular operating system, programming language and/or platform.
For example, an ORB application may include different sets of
instructions for providing an interface, where each set of
instruction is written in C, C+, C++, JAVA and PERL. Furthermore,
ORB applications may be scaled down for particular devices. For
example, devices with limited hardware or small form factors may
receive a minimal set of instructions. Lastly, the interface
provided by the ORB applications may be configured to provide
browser-compatible data or content. In this way, certain devices,
such as small cell phones that are web-enabled, may access and view
some data or content generated by individual satellites without
having to execute an actual ORB application.
[0092] For third-party network accounts and resources that the user
or community wish to make part of the personal network, the user
may specify network locations and information necessary for
accessing and using those resources. For example, the user may
provide a HOTMAIL email address, including log-in and password
information, an APPLE iTUNES login and password, and a YAHOO!
PHOTOS login and password. In an embodiment, a web-service may be
provided in conjunction with the ORB applications. Part of the
functions of the web service may include communicating the third
party information for a particular user to one or more satellites
or services on the personal network. Alternatively, the web service
may retrieve the content (e.g. emails, MPEG files and photographs)
for the user's personal network, and deliver the content to
specific memory locations on the user's personal network.
[0093] Example Usages of Personal Network
[0094] The following are examples of how satellites may combine to
provide services and interconnect the heterogeneous elements of the
personal network. Various other examples will be described in
greater detail with additional embodiments described below.
[0095] In FIG. 6, the use of three services is described as an
illustrative example of how an embodiment described herein may be
implemented. In FIG. 6, the services provided on the personal
network includes an interface service 610, a printer driver service
620, and a photo server 630. The three services may be combined
order to enable a user to print photographs. The interface service
610 may be configured to enable the user to select, and possibly
view a list of available photographs, and also to instruct the
personal network to print selected photographs at a printer of the
printer driver service 620. By selecting the file using the
interface service 610, the user may also specify file location
and/or location of the file. Using the interface service 610, the
user may also provide or indicate the command of "print" for one or
more selected items. Entry of the commands causes the interface
service 610 to pass a request 652 that identifies a file 642 of the
user's selection to the printer driver service 620. In turn the
printer driver service 620 references its own data structure to
identify the service that is capable of locating the requested file
642. In the example provided, the printer driver service 620 would
identify the photo server as being the appropriate service or
satellite. A request 654 would be forwarded to the photo server
630, which in turn would send a communication 656 to a shared
memory 640 in order to retrieve file 642. The photo server 630
receives a response 658 corresponding to the file 642 from the
shared memory 640 and delivers a copy 660 to the printer driver
620. In locating the file 642, the photo server 630 may use an
identifier and possible a location provided for the file by the
user. The printer driver 620 rasterizes data retrieved by the photo
server and causes the associated printer device to make a hard copy
of the file 642. The printer driver then makes a request 654 from
the photo server 630 for the identified file printer driver service
620 to make a request 622 that specifies a file 642 from a memory
644. Upon the items being printed, a communication may be provided
from the printer driver service 620 to the interface service 610
indicating completion of that particular print job.
[0096] The flexibility of the personal network, as devised herein,
enables the personal network to provide services such as the
interface service 610 at numerous locations. For example, the
interface service 610 may exist in multiple forms for different
devices and/or operating systems. For example, the interface
service 610 may be configured to be presentable as an application
for use with a user's connected PDA. To this end, the interface
service 610 may be configured to receive input from the PDA. The
input may, for example, be a text entry, touch selection or voice
command. Alternatively, the interface service 610 may exist on or
through a web-site or other network site available through the
Internet. In either case, the interface service 610 may have
knowledge of the different satellites and their capabilities. This
knowledge may be received from announcements of the repository,
such as shown by FIG. 4.
[0097] In another embodiment, the interface service 610 is
distributed amongst the web-service and multiple satellites
residing on different devices of a given personal network. In such
an embodiment, the user may be able to select from the web-based
portion of the interface service 610 the locations from which the
interface service 610 is to be made active. Once made active, the
user may access the interface service 610 from that location.
[0098] Other examples of the cooperation and interoperability of
satellites may be provided. In one example, a service may
automatically access and/or receive digital pictures on the digital
camera and make the images available to all devices that are
capable of viewing images. Another service may correspond to a
printer driver that interfaces with the printer to print the
images. Access to view the images, to control the camera into
taking pictures, to cause the pictures to be made available on the
personal network, and to edit the pictures may be provided from any
location that can access the personal network. In an embodiment,
access to the personal network may be provided over the Internet,
or from the PSTN system.
[0099] Another service may enable selection of different media
sources as channels. For example, real-time video captured by the
camcorder may be one channel, cable feed may be another channel,
and the user may select which channel they wish to view. Extending
the example further, another service may transcode the different
media feeds for different devices. For example, media from the
media feeds may be transmitted from the media center to cell phone,
PDA, and the public network domain 504. Depending on the bandwidth,
processing resources, display size and resolution, audio
capabilities, and/or memory of the destination, the transcoding
service compresses and reduces resolution of the media feed based
on the destination.
[0100] Linked Memory
[0101] Embodiments allow for memory devices and resources available
on a personal network to be linked so as to form a combined memory.
The combined memory may have the appearance of being a single
memory medium, when in fact the memory devices and/or resources may
be distributed throughout the personal network. The locations of
the memory resources and devices may extend to multiple devices
residing at multiple locations on a local area network, to memory
devices that are coupled to the personal network across the
Internet or other public network, and to memory resources provided
on third-party sites, such as on web portals. Moreover, embodiments
described herein allow for the memory devices and resources to
operate on different platforms or operating systems.
[0102] FIG. 7 illustrates a basic method illustrating how linked
memory resources on a personal network may be used, according to an
embodiment. In step 710, the locations of memory resources on the
personal network are identified. These locations may, at least
initially, be identified by designations of the user. For example,
the user may specify certain memory components that are under his
control or use, and for which the user wishes to make available for
use on the personal network. The locations may, for example,
correspond to portions of a home computer system, a media center, a
connected appliance (e.g. digital camera or camcorder), an Internet
memory account (e.g. YAHOO! PHOTOS), and a work computer which is
accessible over the Internet or some other data network. In one
embodiment, the portions of memory identified may correspond to a
branch or segment of a directory structure, including nodes on
which files and other items are provided.
[0103] In step 720, a combined memory space is formed by linking
the memory associated with each of the locations identified in the
previous step. The memory resources may be linked by making the
memory accessible to one or more satellites (or services) that are
cooperatively coupled to one another. In one embodiment, satellites
interconnected in a manner described with FIGS. 1-2A and 2B may be
considered cooperatively coupled, and memory resources made
available to those satellites would therefore be linked. In a
scenario where a user establishes a personal network with several
ORB-enabled satellites, the user may establish the combined memory
using memory resources associated with individual satellites.
Memory resources associated with individual satellites may include
memory, including portions of a device memory (e.g. personal
computer hard drive, removeable memory in a laptop, flash memory in
a PDA or memory stick) in which content, data and other items are
stored. Such memory resources may structured in the form of a
directory. In one example, a user may select media folders on the
hard drive of a personal computer, photographs stored on a PDA,
media files stored on a local drive of a work computer, and so
forth.
[0104] Step 730 allows for exchanges to occur between satellites,
and/or locations having access to the personal network, and the
combined memory. For example, embodiments of the invention allow
for a user to store and/or retrieve content, files, documents and
other item from any device that is a satellite in the personal
network. This may correspond to any device on which ORB-enabled
applications or interfaces is provided on. In an embodiment, a
web-based service may access portions of the combined memory to
retrieve content and other items. One embodiment provides that the
content and other items is converted into a format that is viewable
from any device having a browser (or other component capable of
viewing documents and items in a markup language format). Thus, for
example, embodiments enable exchanges to occur between the combined
memory and remote Internet sites.
[0105] FIG. 8 illustrates a system for forming and using a combined
memory, under an embodiment. The system includes a plurality of
linked memory resources, including a first memory 810, second
memory 820, third memory 830, and fourth memory 840. Each of the
memory is coupled to one or more servers in a cluster of servers on
the personal network. As shown, a first server 812 is provided for
first memory 810, second server 822 is provided for second memory
820, third server 832 is provided for third memory 830, and fourth
server 842 is provided for fourth memory 840. The servers may each
be software based, and can reside on one or more machines. However,
the servers 812, 822, 832, 842 may each include an API that
interconnects that server to one or more other satellites on the
personal network, including to a repository 850.
[0106] For purpose of description, the first memory 810 is an
Internet memory resource, such as provided by portals, and on
Internet email accounts. A network connection 814 may include the
Internet. The first memory 810 may, for example, be located by a
uniform resource locator (URL). The second memory 820 and third
memory 830 may be coupled to the personal network using LAN
connections 824, 834 respectively. The fourth memory 840 may be
located on yet another machine or machine resource, but at a
separate network domain. For example, the fourth memory 840 may
coincide with a portion of the hard drive belonging to the user's
machine at his work. The fourth memory 840 may be accessible to the
server cluster of the personal network across using a public
network connection 844, such as the Internet. Its location may be
identified by an IP address. A URL or other mechanism may be used
to locate the fourth memory 840.
[0107] Individual servers in the server cluster may be dedicated to
retrieve, modify, and delete content, files and other items based
on a data type of the file or item being retrieved. As an
alternative, or additional level of operation, individual servers
in the server cluster may be assigned to specific memory resources
or locations. Thus, the individual servers may retrieve, modify,
delete and add items/content to assigned memory resources, or
regions of specific memory resources. For example, first server 812
retrieves files from the first memory 810. Each server may be
assigned to retrieve files and other items from a specific memory
in the combined memory. Still further, other embodiments may, as an
alternative or additional level of operation, provide that specific
servers retrieve files based on other factors, such as the
directory location of the files in respect to the location of other
files.
[0108] The cluster of servers may be made available to one or more
services 850 (as provided by individual or combined operations of
satellites) on the personal network. In one embodiment, the cluster
of servers are seamlessly integrated with the services of the
personal network. The satellite or service may therefore use the
linked memory resources as if the memory resources where combined
and residing on one machine, as one resource. In an embodiment
shown by FIG. 9, the server clusters perform operations in response
to requests from different services. These operations may include
the retrieval of files, documents and other items. In one
embodiment, an operation requiring use of the linked memory may be
performed without the user having to specify the location of the
memory resource. For example, the user may perform the operation
without taking any separate action to specify the actual location
of the item (such as identifying a directory path of the item).
When a request to perform an operation on an item is received by
the cluster of servers, one of the servers in the cluster may
retrieve the item from the portion of the linked memory that it is
assigned. In one implementation, each server may attempt to locate
the requested item based on an identifier of the item, and the
server that does locate the item returns the item to the requesting
service. In another implementation, each server recognizes from the
identifier whether the item is in that server's real of operation.
For example, only first server 812 may retrieve MPEG files. A
request for retrieval of a specific MPEG file may therefore be
handled by first server 812. The first server 812 may check one or
more memory resources in retrieving the desired files, but the
first server 812 may also have knowledge on where to look for that
particular file. Examples of operations that may be performed using
the linked memory resources include operations to store items, to
read items, and to edit or delete items. In one embodiment, the
operation and the item may be specified, but the location of the
memory resource where the item resides may be of no relevance, at
least to the user. In such a scenario, a user's specification of
the operation and item is all that is necessary for the cluster of
servers to locate the item and perform the operation. Thus, the
aspect of locating a particular item, or a particular location in
the linked memory, may be automated, or at least made independent
of the fact that the memory resources may be distributed on
multiple machines and across multiple network domains.
[0109] Various types of services are contemplated for a system such
as shown in FIG. 8. A service includes one that renders images or
plays back audio and/or video media. Such a service may use the
cluster of servers to retrieve image/media files for consumption by
individual satellites and/or devices that are interconnected on the
personal network. Another example of a service that can use the
linked memory includes a server that captures media (such as audio,
video, or image) and stores the media at a designated location in
the combined media. In the latter scenario, the user may specify an
address or location on which the captured file is to be stored by
making reference to the combined memory. But the steps of locating
the actualmedia resource is done automatically, even though several
media resources on different locations and network domains may
exist on a given personal network. In this way, the combined memory
may be viewed and operated as a single memory resource or
entity.
[0110] A search service may also be provided for a system described
in FIG. 8. The search service may enable a user to enter a search
term on a connected device. The search term may be matched to
identifying features of files, documents and media stored on the
different memory locations. One or more servers 812, 822, 832, 842
may be used to inspect the identifying features of the items in the
memory sources. Alternatively, a database or other data structure
may store identifying features of items in the memory sources. A
combination of servers may populate such a database. Search terms
provided by the user may be compared against the database for
matches. For example, a search string specified by the user may be
matched to metadata associated with media files.
[0111] FIG. 9 illustrates a general application for a combined
memory formed from linking memory resources located at different
locations. An application such as illustrated in FIG. 9 enables for
items to be added to a combined memory of a personal network.
[0112] In step 910, a plurality of locations on the personal
network are identified. Each location has an associated memory
resource. As described in FIG. 8, the memory resources may reside
on a local domain, on the Internet and/or at a remote location.
[0113] Step 920 provides that a combined memory is formed from
linking the memory resources associated with the locations
identified in step 910.
[0114] Step 930 provides that an event is defined that is to result
in data being generated and stored in a designated memory location.
In one embodiment, the event may be defined for a specific device
or satellite. The manner in which the event is defined may be
numerous, and configurable by the user. Embodiments of the
invention provide that the event corresponds to an action taken by
or on a specific set of satellites, or devices on which the
satellites execute.
[0115] In step 940, the designated location for storing data from
the event is identified. The designation may be made in reference
to the combined memory. But the location in the combined memory may
actually reside on one of the memory resources that form the
combined memory. However, the actual location may be hidden, or
represented in some an alternative manner to reflect the linking
and combined nature of the memory resources.
[0116] In step 950, transmission and other operations are defined
for data generated from the associated event. This may include
operations that cause the data to be transferred to the identified
location. Performing this step may require configuring the
satellites (or devices on which they reside) to detect the event
and to perform one or more additional operations, such as copying
data and transmitting copied data to servers from which the data
may be stored and subsequently retrieved from the specified memory
location.
[0117] In step 960, the occurrence of the event is detected. For
example, the event may occur to the performance of an action by a
specified satellite or device.
[0118] In step 970, additional operations that are to be performed
upon the occurrence of the event are performed. Then in step 980,
data generated for or by the event is transferred and stored in the
associated location of the combined memory.
[0119] Several applications may be implemented using a method such
as described in FIG. 9. In one embodiment, the event may correspond
to a roaming device capturing a digital image. For example, a
method such as described in FIG. 9 may be applied to a cellular
phone with digital camera functionality. The event defined in step
930 may then correspond to the camera application capturing an
image, or even to the cellular phone receiving a captured image
(e.g. the cellular phone receives an image file from another
cellular phone via email, SMS, attachment, infrared etc.). For step
940, images captured on the cellular phone may previously be
designated for a particular memory location. For example, the user
may specify the location of YAHOO! PHOTOS for all digital images
captured by that users cellular phone. In step 950, the additional
operations may correspond to an application or configuration that
would cause the cellular phone to automatically transmit the data
corresponding to the captured image to the personal network using a
cellular network. For steps 960 and 970, when the image is captured
or received, the transmission of the data corresponding to the
image may be initiated. Step 980 is performed by one of the servers
on the personal network transmitting the data corresponding to the
image to the user's YAHOO! PHOTOS account.
[0120] Numerous other examples may be determined requiring some or
all of the steps recited in FIG. 9. For example, a method such as
described in FIG. 9 may be extended to a voice or audio recording
capability on a roaming device, such as a WIFI enabled PDA. Audio
recordings captured on such devices (or anywhere else) may be
designated for storage on one of the memory locations associated
with one or more of the satellites in the personal network. When a
voice or audio recording is received, the PDA may be configured to
use the WIFI connection to transmit the data corresponding to the
recording to the personal network, where the recording may be
stored at the designated location.
[0121] Viewer for Combined Memory
[0122] FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment in which a combined
memory may be formed in order to provide a viewer of content in the
multiple memory resources that form the combined memory. The viewer
enables the user to combine various sources of information,
including information from sources not included in the memory
resources. For example, the user may create lists of content items
using content listings in the combined memory, in combination with
content listing from one or more external, non-personal network
items.
[0123] In FIG. 10, a system is provided that combines data from
different sources for a viewer 1050. The viewer 1050 corresponds to
a data structure that contains data representing the contents of
the different memory sources that form the combined memory.
Examples of such data structures include text metadata (such as
file name) and thumbnail views of files. In addition, an embodiment
provides that the viewer 1050 presents data representing content
and media from sources other than the combined memory.
[0124] The combined memory may include first memory source 1010, a
second memory source 1012, a first network memory resource 1020,
and a second network memory resource 1022. The first and second
remote memory resources 1020, 1022 may corresponding to, for
example, Internet storage accounts, such as those provided by email
services. A first set of one or more servers 1014 may perform
server operations for the first memory resource 1010, and a second
set of one or more servers 1016 may perform server operations for
the second memory resource 1020. In addition, one or more servers
1024 may be provided for the first and second remote memory
resources 1020, 1022.
[0125] According to an embodiment, each of the sets of servers
1014, 1016, 1024 perform read operations to scan the content items
in their respective memory domains. The read operations may be
performed automatically, such as periodically or according to a
schedule. In one embodiment, the sets of servers 1014, 1016, 1024
retrieve information that includes the names of content items in
the respective memory sources 1010, 1012, 1020, 1022. It is also
possible for the sets of servers 1014, 1016, 1024 to each retrieve
metadata from those content items. Examples of the metadata include
the size of the file, the dates in which the files or items were
modified or created, and the format of the data in the file or
item. In an embodiment, it is also possible for the sets of servers
1014, 1016, 1024 to retrieve content or payload data from the items
in their respective domains, either for all of individual items or
portions thereof. The information read from the different memory
sources is provided to the viewer 1050. The viewer 1050 may
correspond to a data structure such as a table or directory. In one
embodiment, select information from the operations performed by the
sets of servers 1014, 1016, 1024 are presented to the user. The
information may be provided as a table, or in an interface where
multiple pages are provided. Features such as icons or menus may be
used to access and view more information about select items.
[0126] It is also possible for the information contained in the
viewer 1050 to be hierarchical in nature. For example, the viewer
1050 may present information in a directory format, where nodes in
the directory correspond to memory resources 1010, 1012, 1020,
1022. The arrangement of the nodes in the directory may be
determined by the user. In addition, the viewer 1050 may be
provided as hierarchical interface where users may use features
such as selectable icons and pull-down menus to view information
retrieved from the sets of servers 1014, 1016, 1024 in some
hierarchical fashion.
[0127] In addition to content items from the combined memory, the
viewer 1050 may be used to show information about content items
from one or more media sources 1070. For example, a media service
1072 (cable or satellite media), a port 1074 for receiving
broadcast media, and a streaming media service 1076 from the
Internet may be accounted for in the viewer 1050. In one
embodiment, an interface 1062 used to gather information about
select media provided from the different sources. For example,
interface 1062 may be used to present schedule information from the
different media sources on the viewer 1050. As another example, the
interface 1062 may read guide information from a website or
television screen to view when select programs are to be provided
from a given source. The schedule information may correspond to
what is made viewable on the viewer 1050. In this example, the user
may sort or select from the guide information that is made
available for display in order to view schedule information for
media programs of interest. Once the user has configured the
schedule information to his preferences, he can specify the
schedule information (via a graphic user interface) to be available
for viewing from select or all satellites in the personal network.
The user may even go outside of the satellites and make the
schedule available on, for example, an Internet account or a
non-satellite roaming device.
[0128] Data contained in the viewer 1050 may in turn be provided to
other services that form the personal network. In an embodiment
shown by FIG. 10, the other services include, for example, an
interface service 1052 and a search interface 1054. The interface
service 1052 formats a presentation of the viewer for display on
one or more types of display platforms. For example, the interface
service 1052 may provide a presentation to accommodate the
capabilities and features of a cell phone or web page. In one
embodiment, the search interface 1054 enables users to search for
items, including files, media, media sources, and documents, based
on identifying information that is retrieved from those items and
provided in the viewer 1050. The identifying information may
include, for example, file names, media name, and data types.
[0129] In an embodiment, the user of the personal network may
configure a presentation of the viewer to display various items and
media in anyone of a number of ways. A user may configure separate
interfaces for different kinds of media, documents and files (e.g.
radio media, music files, video sources, email etc.) to display the
contents of certain segments of memory or select sources of media
and/or data. The user may also order the items being presented on
an interface, and select the representations of items (e.g.
directory names or icons). Various other forms of configuration are
also possible.
[0130] One purpose of viewer 1050 is to organize the presentation
of content and items that the user may wish to have readily
available when accessing the personal network from a satellite or
roaming device. The viewer 1050 then provides an updated view of
the media and content available to a user from his personal
network. In addition to providing an updated view, the viewer 1050
enables users to select media or items for consumption from one of
the satellites or roaming devices. In other words, the items
presented by a viewer on a given interface may be selectable by
some user-action. Once selected, the item may be retrieved and
delivered to the satellite specified by the user. This satellite
may correspond to a device that the user is using to connect to the
personal network. Alternatively, the satellite on which consumption
occurs may correspond to another location remote from the location
of the user. For example, the user may request a media file to be
played back on his home computer from a location at work.
[0131] Live Views
[0132] An embodiment enables a personal network to provide the most
updated views of all data items in the personal network to all
nodes on the personal network. In one embodiment, each device on
the personal network that has browser capabilities can access and
view the contents of viewer 1050. The viewer 1050 may maintain a
view of each item in its most updated form. In addition to media
files, items that can be maintained in the viewer 1050 include
records (such as tasks and calendar information), messages (email
or voicemail), and documents (word document). By providing the most
updated view of each such item, embodiments provided herein reduce
or even obviate the need to "synchronize" files. For example, a PDA
may carry in the personal network a view of the calendar records on
a personal computer. No local copy is needed. Any edits made to the
view of the record on the PDA are transferred to the location of
the actual record, where the change is made.
[0133] Interfaces
[0134] FIG. 11A-11G illustrate examples of interfaces for
displaying contents from the viewer 1050. FIG. 11A illustrates an
example of an interface 1101 for displaying sources, titles (and
other information) and/or schedule of audiovisual media feeds. In
contrast to program listings such as provided with cable
television, an embodiment described herein lists audiovisual media
feeds from numerous sources. Examples of audiovisual media feeds
(referred to as "programs" for simplicity) include cable or
satellite television programs, live webcam feeds, and Internet
television. With reference to FIG. 11A, a window 1102 may contain a
list of programs 1105, or partial list, of programs at a given
instance of time. The programs 1105 may include cable programs 1106
and Internet television programs 1108. Webcam feeds may also be
provided. A scroll bar 1109 may be provided to enable the user to
scroll and view different programs. The programs listed programs
are each available to the user from the personal network at a
particular time. The user may select one or more times (e.g. right
now, or at 8:00 PM) on which the list of programs are to be shown.
Thus, the list of programs in the window 1102 may provide schedule
information and/or current information, and also audiovisual media
feeds from multiple sources. While the user's input may determine
the what channels or program information is displayed, the user's
input may be information other than a desired time. For example,
the user may manually select programs or content feeds of choice.
Alternatively, the user may select to view what programs are
showing based on other sort criteria, such as title, genre
(Comedy), channel etc.
[0135] In an embodiment, the items listed in window 1102 are
selected by the user. According to one implementation, the user may
select items by interacting with the viewer 1050 (FIG. 10), for
example, by using an interface service. Thus, the user does not
have to include in his personalized listings programs that he or
channels that he is not interested in. This is particularly
advantageous when the user is using a device that has a small form
factor, such as a cellular phone. The user can limit program
listings for the particular interface to programs and other
audiovisual media feeds of interest, thereby saving display space
on the cellular phone, and limiting his interaction with the
interface 1101.
[0136] A summary segment 1109 may be provided for interface 1101.
In one embodiment, the summary segment 1109 corresponds to
electronically published descriptions of programs from the actual
media source. For example, the Guide feature on cable programs
provided such published descriptions. As described in FIG. 10, the
interface 1062 may read the Guide information from the media feeds
when available.
[0137] The interface 1101 may include a set of interface items 1103
for enabling manipulation of the interface. The set of interface
items 1103 include on/off, moving forward and backward in time, a
"now" feature (to display programs on select channels at a current
time), and another feature to enable date or time selection of
programs. Additional features may be provided for the interface
1101. For example, the ability to select channels may be provided
on the interface 1101.
[0138] In addition, interfaces provided from viewer 1050 may
provide remote control functionality. As will be described with
embodiments below, satellites may be used to control other
satellites. The interface 1101 may provide interface features that
serve to control another satellite. For example, a set of interface
controls 1107 for controlling a digital video recorder (DVR) may be
provided. The set of interface controls 1107 include individual
features for directing the DVR to record or to stop recording. A
search feature 1104 may also be provided to enable a user to search
information provided in the window 1101.
[0139] FIG. 11B illustrates an interface 1111 for displaying
musical work and other audio based media of a user's personal
network. As with an embodiment described above, the items 1114
listed in interface 1111 may correspond to a selected subset of the
overall media provided on the personal network. While interface
1111 may list items 1114 on a common interface, the actual
locations of the items 1114 may be on different machines and
network items. For example, some musical items may be on a user's
local machine, others with a third-party musical provided such as
APPLE iTUNES. Furthermore, the interface may list items even though
they have different file formats (e.g. MPEG and .wav) The manner of
listing the musical media is shown as a directory or hierarchy, but
other lists and organization formats may be used. Furthermore, the
manner in which items are organized for display on interface 1111
does not have to correspond to the manner in which the items are
organized in the actual memory sources, or even in the viewer. The
user may select what items are listed. An embodiment also provides
that the user may select the manner or format (directory, table,
iconic, menu etc,) in which items are listed.
[0140] FIG. 11C shows an interface 1121 for displaying audiovisual
files 1124, such as movies, television programs, home movies, and
video clips. In an embodiment, these items may be displayed on a
separate interface than audio files (see e.g. interface 1111), or
the two types of media may be combined. In the example provided,
video files corresponding to a DVR recording (TiVO), a family
vacation recorded using a home video recorder, a web video clip,
and a DVD movie are listed as the items 1124. In one embodiment,
the interface 1121 (or any other interface) may provide a listing
of the actual media device (DVD disc) on which a particular item is
provided. For example, viewer 1050 may interface with a DVD player
that is connected and available to certain services on the personal
network. The media contained on the DVD player may be what is
listed in the interface 1121. Interface 1121 may also provide a
display area 1125 in which information about the media clip is
provided.
[0141] FIG. 11D illustrates an interface 1131 for a digital photo
album that a user can maintain on his personal network. As with the
other types of media, the actual locations of the photos may be
scattered across various locations of the personal network. The
photos may be selected from a larger set in appearing on the
interface 1131. The interface 1131 may be used to display
identifiers and/or links to photographs selected by the user.
Selection by the user of the identifiers or links may initiate a
service to display the photograph.
[0142] FIG. 11E illustrates an interface 1141 for radio type media.
The interface 1141 displays different channels 1144 from which
radio media may be received. The channels 1144 may be from
different sources, such as FM radio, AM radio, satellite radio,
cable radio, or the Internet. An embodiment such as shown enables a
user to select channels from different sources for display on a
common interface. The user may also select channels in order to
listen to the audio media using interface 1141. Radio media may
include broadcast audio media from radio stations, satellites,
Internet stations, or other sources. Any device on the personal
network that is capable of receiving radio feeds and storing the
feeds digitally may be used in providing
[0143] FIG. 11F illustrates another interface 1151 on which
voicemail and email may be listed. This interface assumes that a
satellite or a service exists on the personal network that can
aggregate emails from one or more email accounts, as well voicemail
messages, such as provided with IP telephony. Selection of items
listed in the interface 1151 may cause the items to be opened,
played back, or otherwise reproduced. In an embodiment, the type
and location of the messages does not matter. As such, both
voicemail and email from different accounts may be listed.
[0144] FIG. 11G illustrates a multi-pane display for a
user-interface, according to another embodiment. A multi-pane
display 1161 may be provided as a convenient mechanism for enabling
a user to view and select a channel or file. The display 1161 may
be provided on any satellite having sufficient display resources.
While an embodiment such as shown in FIG. 11G has nine panes, other
embodiments may have more or fewer panes. Selection of one pane may
cause a resource associated with the selected pane to be retrieved
and opened. While the resources associated with the panes are
presented on one interface, the actual locations of the resources
may be varied. For example, one resource may be located on a home
computer, another on an Internet account. The resources may
correspond to files (particularly media files), media feeds (cable
television channels or web cam), individual satellites (e.g.
printer or camera), and other resources of the personal
network.
[0145] An embodiment provides that the panes 1163 are current on
the status of the resource. For example, if an individual pane 1163
corresponds to a file, then deletion of the file may make the pane
disappear from the display 1161. The panes may display thumbnails,
corresponding to a sample of data retrieved from the individual
resources associated with the panes. The thumbnail images may be
updated (particularly in the case where the resources or media
programs) to show the most current state (such as the current
program being shown) of the underlying resource. Selection of
resources underlying the individual panes 1163 may be iconic (e.g.
double click with mouse-pointer, or single display tap on PDA).
[0146] According to another embodiment, portions of any of the
interfaces shown in FIGS. 11A-11G, or items from each respective
interface, may be combined or aggregated into one interface.
[0147] Remote Control of Components
[0148] FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate different control applications in
which one component u may control other components through the
connectivity of a personal network. In one embodiment, satellites
on a personal network may be configured so that a first satellite
can control a second satellite, even if the first and second
satellites are remotely located from one another. Since each
satellite contains an API or interface (see FIGS. 2A and 2B), each
satellite can receive and process communications from other
satellites. According to embodiments such as shown in FIGS.
12A-12C, one satellite can control another satellite using
communications that pass over the personal network, regardless of
the connectivity medium that connects that satellite to the
personal network. Embodiments such as described below also provide
that satellites can communicate and control/be controlled by other
satellites, even if the other satellite has a different operating
system, different platform and/or a different usage.
[0149] In FIG. 12A, a system is shown in which a first satellite
1210 causes another satellite 1220 to perform one or more
operations. The first satellite 1210 may send control signals 1212
to the second satellite 1220. The control signals 1212 may be based
on user-commands received on the first satellite. Data 1222
resulting from the second satellite 1220 performing the operations
is streamed to the first satellite 1210. Thus, the second satellite
1220 may perform the operations, while the first satellite 1210
receives a resulting data stream 1222 from the second satellite's
operations.
[0150] It is also possible for a non-satellite or quasi-satellite
component to use the personal network to control other satellites
and components. For example, a cellular device, with limited
processing and memory resources, may be used to connect to and
cause the playback of media files through a user's personal
network. Data resulting from the playback may be streamed to the
cell phone, so that the cell phone can reproduce the audio and
media of the file. However, the playback of the source media file
occurs at the location of the second satellite 1220. In the context
of media playback, the terminal that is controlled to perform the
original playback may alternatively be referred to as the
originating terminal, while the other terminal is referred to as
the receiving terminal. In an example provided, the second
satellite may correspond to a media station or personal computer,
which are systems that can access a very large media library. The
cell phone is an example of a receiving terminal that has more
limited access to a media library, because the cell phone may not
have the same bandwidth resources, memory, or audio playback
resources as the personal computer or media station. An embodiment
such as described enables the cell phone to borrow the media
library from another device or system. Furthermore, second
satellite 1220 may know of the capabilities of the cell phone, and
thus be able to stream data to the cell phone in a manner that
allows audio output to occur on the cell phone. For example, the
rate at which data is streamed may be configured to suite the
bandwidth and/or processing resources of the cell phone. As an
example, a full media output operation may be performed on the
second satellite 1220 at the control of the cell phone, resulting
in rich audio generation and possible video display. No user is
needed on the second satellite 1220. But From the output of the
second satellite 1220, a set of data may be streamed to the cell
phone that enables the same media being played on the second
satellite 1220 to be played on the cell phone. However, differences
may exist in the audio generated on the cell phone, as compared to
the second satellite. One difference may be that the compression
used to send the set of data to the cell phone may be of a lower
quality, since the cell phone may have lower graphic and audio
equipment quality, processing speed, and/or bandwidth. Therefore,
the quality of the audio output on the cell phone may be less than
that of the second satellite.
[0151] In an embodiment, for a satellite or other component to be
able to control other satellites remotely, the satellite needs to
be equipped with capabilities that allow for it to be a controller.
This may include the ability to process and send control signals,
to process user-commands that are converted to control signals, and
to receive resulting data as a result of the other satellite
performing its operations. To this end, an embodiment provides that
a controller satellite may be created for deployment on a personal
network.
[0152] As mentioned, the result of the second satellite 1220
performing the operations commanded by the first satellite is that
data is streamed from the second satellite to the first satellite.
Streaming data 1222 means that the data is buffered and dispersed
from the second satellite 1220 so that the data is continuously
processed on the first satellite in a proper time sequence. In the
case where data stream 1222 corresponds to audio and/or video
media, the result is that the data stream can reproduce the audio
and/or video media to replicate playback of the original media
resource at the second satellite 1220. In streaming data, the
second satellite 1220 buffers the data before sending it. The
second satellite 1220 may initiate the stream operation, including
the buffering of the data. Alternatively, the first satellite 1210
assists in performing the stream operation. Because the data is
streamed, the data may be carried more efficiently and quickly, and
received more richly. This compares to previous approaches to carry
refresh data from an originating terminal to a recipient terminal.
Refresh data usually corresponds to a snap shot of a visual
presentation, such as a screen shot. When refresh and transmit
operations are performed rapidly on the originating terminal, a
video feel can be recreated on the recipient terminal. But this
form of data sharing requires large amounts of data to be
transferred, and the video feel is poor, since the refresh
operations really only correspond to a series of snap shots. Also,
audio data cannot be recreated with the refresh operation. The
refresh and transmit operation offers little opportunity to
configure the data transmission for the needs of the recipient
terminal. For example, if the recipient terminal has a small
screen, there is no opportunity to shrink the video media. In
contrast, embodiments described herein enable the originating
terminal (where second satellite 1220 resides) to configure the
data stream for the recipient (cell phone or first satellite).
[0153] In addition to playback of audio or video files, other
examples of applications for an embodiment such as shown in FIG.
12A include the following. The second satellite 1120 may receive
live media, in the form of cable or satellite feeds. The first
satellite 1210 may control the second satellite 1220, and other
satellites as well, in directing the second satellite to forward
data from the live feed to the first satellite, where it can be
replicated. Additional description of such an embodiment is
provided below. The second satellite 1220 may also correspond to an
application that generates a document, such as a word processor.
The control signals 1212 may initiate the second satellite 1220 to
execute, thereby opening the document and streaming it (or portions
thereof) to the first satellite.
[0154] The control signals 1212 may also be used to manipulate an
operation of the second satellite 1220. For example, a user may
interact with the first satellite 1210 in order to send a signal to
the second satellite 1220 to manipulate a play-list, by for
example, skipping a song or repeating it. As another example, the
user may also interact with the first satellite 1210 in order to
control edits or input into a document handled by the second
satellite 1220.
[0155] While an embodiment shown in FIG. 12A illustrates data 1222
being streamed from the second satellite 1220 to the first
satellite 1210, another embodiment provides that the data 1222 can
be streamed to a third location, either instead of or concurrently
with streaming the data to the first location. Thus, for example,
first satellite 1210 can direct second satellite 1220 to stream
data to a web-site, a roaming device or other location accessible
to the personal network.
[0156] FIG. 12B illustrates an extension of a concept illustrated
in FIG. 12A. In FIG. 12B, one satellite controls multiple
satellites. In one embodiment, the satellites correspond to
multiple applications, which may or may not reside at the same
location. In an example provided by FIG. 12B, a first satellite
1240 is provided at a first location. A second satellite 1250 is
provided at a second location, and a third satellite 1260 is
provided at a third location that may or may not correspond to the
second location. In an embodiment, the first satellite 1240 is
configured to use control signals 1242 to control the second
satellite 1250 and the third satellite 1260 independently of one
another. Still further, an embodiment provides that an action 1262
of the third satellite 1260 that is controlled by the first
satellite 1240 is conditioned on a corresponding action 1252 that
is to be performed of the second satellite. The first satellite
1240 may control the second satellite to perform the action 1252,
and the action 1252 may be used by the first satellite 1240 in
causing the third satellite to perform the action 1262. The manner
in which multiple satellites may be controlled from a common
satellite in a cascaded or serial fashion may be extended to
multiple satellites.
[0157] One application for an embodiment such as shown in FIG. 12B
includes a roaming device (first satellite 1240) that connects to a
personal network and direct a text document application (second
satellite 1250) to retrieve a specified document. The text document
application may correspond to a word application, a web-based text
content retrieval application, or an email application. A
user-input may specify, for example, what document is to be
retrieved. Once the document is retrieved (action 1252), the
document may be used by a text-audio application (third satellite
1260) to generate an audio output (action 1262) based on the
contents of the document. The audio may be outputted at the
location of the third satellite, or alternatively streamed to the
location of the first satellite 1240. Still further, the audio may
be streamed to a third or fourth one or more additional satellites
1265. A user may, for example, use his cell phone to direct a
server on the personal network to retrieve a news item from the
web. The cell phone may direct the server to send the document to a
text-audio application, which then can convert the document into an
audio file. The audio file may then be streamed back to the cell
phone. Alternatively, the user may select another device to receive
the audio file. For example, the user may use his cell phone to
direct the audio file to be delivered from the text-audio
application to a connected radio player in the user's car.
[0158] In embodiments such as shown in FIGS. 12A-12C, the
controlling satellite may be able to control the other satellites
despite the satellites being heterogeneous. For example, in FIG.
12B, the first satellite 1240 may operate on a device having one
type of platform or operating system, while the second satellite
operates on a second device having another platform or operating
system.
[0159] FIG. 12C illustrates another embodiment in which an element
1266 of a personal network creates, designates, or otherwise
enables a first satellite 1270 to send control signals 1272 to a
second satellite 1280. In an embodiment, the element 1266 may
correspond to a web-service, a browser-enabled device, or another
satellite. For example, a user of the personal network may access
the first satellite 1270 using a centralized web-service where
users can establish their personal networks. A sever or other
machine may seek out the first satellite 1270 in order to enable
that satellite to have control over the second satellite 1280. Once
controller and controlled satellites are established, a system may
operate in a manner such as described with FIGS. 12A and 12B.
[0160] FIG. 13 illustrates a method in which a first satellite
receives media data (such as audio data) from a second satellite
that is directed to playback a media file containing the media
data. In step 1310, satellites that are to form the personal
network are interconnected. This may be accomplished in a manner
such as described with FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B.
[0161] In step 1320, a first satellite is enabled to control the
consumption of media files on a second satellite. This step may
include enabling the first satellite to access media resources on
the second satellite, and to initiate the second satellite to
perform operations of playing back the media files. The access to
the media resources may also include the ability to enable a user
on the first satellite to select a media resource on the second
satellite.
[0162] In step 1330, the first satellite is also be enabled to
direct the second satellite to stream data corresponding to the
media output to the first satellite. The second satellite may also
be configured to stream the data generated from the playback to the
first satellite.
[0163] Step 1340 provides that the first satellite reproduces the
media of the media file using the data streamed from the second
satellite. The first satellite may use a smaller application to
playback the media, since the data for reproducing the audio has
been streamed to the first satellite. The result may be that the
first satellite and the second satellite both reproduce media from
the media file concurrently. As such, both audio and video data may
be reproduced at the first satellite, using an application that is
executing on the second satellite, and a media file that also
resides on the second satellite.
[0164] Transducer
[0165] FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment in which a satellite is
provided on a personal network in order to provide a transducer
service. The transducer service redirects streaming data that is
sent to one location over to a designated satellite. A transducer
service may be implemented on a media source such as a cable or
satellite media feed, or a streaming event on the Internet.
However, a transducer service may be implemented for any media file
that can be streamed.
[0166] In step 1410, a media source on a personal network from
which streaming media can be obtained is identified.
[0167] In step 1420, a transducer satellite interfaces with the
media source. The transducer satellite may either interface with
the media source directly, or interface with another satellite that
provides the transducer satellite streaming media from the media
source (see embodiments described with FIGS. 12A-12C).
[0168] In step 1430, the transducer satellite identifies a target
satellite to receive the media feed. The target satellite may
reside on a device, such as a roaming device. The identification of
the target satellite may be specified by the user, such as the case
where the user is operating the intended target device.
[0169] In step 1440, the transducer satellite accesses a repository
(e.g. element 140 in FIG. 1) of the personal network in order to
determine the capabilities of the target satellite, including the
amount of data it can receive, and any information about the device
that corresponds to the target satellite. The repository may make
reference or contain a library with information that includes a
data rate that the target satellite can handle (based on processing
speed or bandwidth to the target), a display size or a display
resolution. Other pertinent information about the device or
platform of the target satellite may also be used.
[0170] In step 1450, the transducer satellite formats or otherwise
prepares the data from the media source for the target satellite,
based on the information it obtains about the device. For cell
phone devices, as an example, the transducer satellite may reduce
the resolution and format the streaming data to accommodate the
specific display size of the target satellite or its device. In
many cases, the transducer may also take no action, as the target
satellite may have full capability to receive the stream with no
modifications.
[0171] Step 1460 provides that the formatted data (if any) is
streamed to the target satellite. The formatting of the media
enables media resources from various sources, such as television or
media files, to be formatted and delivered for instant playback on
virtually any kind of recipient terminal, such as, for example,
cell phones.
[0172] Multi-File Type Sharing
[0173] Directory View and File Sharing with Remote Device
[0174] As described with, for example, an embodiment of FIG. 10, a
personal network may establish file sharing between satellites, or
even between satellites and non-satellite. In the latter case, one
implementation provides for a web interface to enable the
non-satellite to communicate with other satellites and/or the
personal network via a web browser. Examples of files that can be
shared include word processing documents, media files, image files,
power point files, and "PDF" documents (may collectively be
referred to as "documents"). In addition to documents, files that
can be shared include media, such as streaming media, which can be
played back.
[0175] One or more embodiments provide for a directory view
component that runs on a host terminal. The directory view
component is configured to interface with a file manager
application resident on the host terminal. The file manager
application provides an interface to a directory of the host
terminal. The directory view component interfaces with the file
manager to generate view data of the directory for use on a remote
device. As will be described, the directory view component may form
part of a communication platform that communicates data from a host
terminal or system to a server and/or remote device. Furthermore,
the directory view component forms may also form part of an overall
all system that includes a server for enabling communications and
view sharing with a remote device.
[0176] FIG. 15 illustrates a system for sharing documents between
satellites, or between a satellite and a non-satellite, under an
embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment such as shown by FIG.
15, a system is formed by the combination of a host terminal 1510
and a remote terminal 1550. The host terminal 1510 may operate a
directory view component 1512 for use with other web enabled
devices. The directory view component 1512 may be part of a larger
system for enabling various kinds of remote access and data sharing
with the host terminal 1510. In particular, one or more embodiments
provide that the directory view component 1512 is part of a
communication platform 1525 operating on the host terminal that can
stream or otherwise communicate data from files to a server or
another computer. A system such as shown by FIG. 15 assumes that
the host terminal 1510 and the remote terminal 1550 are connected
across one or more networks 1502 (which may include the Internet).
As described with one or more other embodiments, a server 1505 may
be used to establish connectivity or communications between the
remote terminal 1550 and the host terminal 1510.
[0177] Under one embodiment, the directory view component 1512 may
include functionality, or be included within a platform (i.e. the
communication platform), that enables either the host terminal 1510
or its resources to behave as a satellite on a network of
interconnected satellites. Under one implementation, the remote
terminal 1550 may omit the directory view component 1512 and
utilize only a browser. However, as an alternative, a system such
as shown by FIG. 15 may actually form operating elements of a
personal network, such as described elsewhere in this application.
Thus, one implementation provides that the system may be formed at
any instance by two elements of a personal network communicating
with each other, as described with various other embodiments in
this application.
[0178] In an embodiment, host terminal 1550 includes the directory
view component 1512, a resident file manager 1520, and a directory
1530. The file manager 1520 may correspond to a third-party
application, such as WINDOWS EXPLORER (manufactured by the
MICROSOFT CORPORATION). The file manager 1520 provides a
user-interface to the directory 1530, so as to enable the user to
perform file management operations. As such, file manager 1520
enables organized viewing and management of the directory 1530.
More specifically, one or more embodiments provide that the
resident file manager 1520 can be independently operated by users
to view the nodes and branches of directory 1530, as well as to
perform various other functions such as: (i) moving files from one
branch to another, (ii) copying and deleting files, and (iii) file
searching. The file manager 1520 may be independent from the
directory view component in that it may be a third-party
application. The directory view component 1512 interfaces with the
file manager 1520 to identify the files and structure contained in
the directory 1530. The contents of the directory 1530 may include
documents 1532, as well as media files 1534 such as images, audio
and/or video files.
[0179] From the file manager 1520, the directory view component
1512 may capture directory data 1536 to determine identifying
information about individual files stored in the directory file
name, metadata associated with the files, and the arrangement of
files as nodes in the directory. The identifying information
includes the file name, as well optionally identifying metadata
information, including the modification or create date of the file.
The metadata information may include, for example, the file type
and size. From this information provided by the file manager 1520,
the directory view component 1512 creates a view of the directory
1530.
[0180] As an alternative, the directory view component 1512 may
only capture an image of a view that is provided by the file
manager 1520. The directory data 1536 may include data for
generating display content and/or images. Thus, for example, the
directory view component 1512 may not make an intelligent
determination of the directory 1530, but rather capture an image of
view of the directory 1530 as represented by the file manager 1520.
The directory view component 1512 may execute the file manager 1530
in order to capture the view of the directory 1530. For example, in
response to receiving a request from the remote terminal 1550, the
directory view component 1512 may launch or execute the file
manager 1530 in order to receive an updated view of the directory
1530.
[0181] In either case, contents of the directory 1530 may be
communicated as directory view data 1542. The directory view data
1542 may be generated in response to an action from the remote
terminal 1550 upon the remote terminal connecting to the host
terminal 1510. As an example, the action may correspond to a user
of the remote terminal 1550 selecting to view the directory 1530.
As described with one or more other embodiments, for example, the
user may select an icon or other user-interface feature on the
remote terminal 1550, and this selection is then translated as
input to direct the host terminal 1510 to generate the directory
view data 1542 from the file manager 1520. The directory view data
1542 is then communicated to the remote terminal 1550 upon the
remote terminal connecting to the host terminal 1510.
[0182] Alternatively, the view data may be created regardless of
whether a connection to the remote terminal 1550 is in place. The
directory view data 1542 may be contained as a frame of an image,
and when connection occurs with the remote terminal, the frame (or
other formulation of the directory view data 1542) is communicated
to the remote terminal.
[0183] In one embodiment, the host terminal 1510 identifies the
capabilities of the remote terminal 1550 to display the directory
view data 1542, and conforms the view data to those capabilities.
For example, in one embodiment, the size of an image formed by the
directory view data 1542 is sized to a display size of the remote
terminal 1550. In such a scenario, the remote terminal 1550 may
correspond to a cell phone, or small form-factor device. In another
embodiment, the host terminal 1510 is aware that the remote device
1550 is not capable of using certain files, and omits these files
from the directory view data 1542. As described with other
embodiments, the capabilities (e.g. display size, bandwidth
available) of the remote terminal 1550 may be determined or known
by the host terminal 1510.
[0184] As an alternative, the determination as to whether the
remote terminal 1550 can handle a document transfer may not be
needed. The directory view component 1512 may respond to all
requests, regardless of the capabilities of the remote terminal
1550.
[0185] When connectivity is established between the host terminal
1510 and the remote terminal 1550, one embodiment provides the
directory view data 1542 is communicated as display content to the
browser 1554. The directory view data 1542 is rendered by the
browser as web content. For example, under one implementation, the
directory view data 1542 may be incorporated as part of an overall
web page 1576 that includes display content from directory 1530 or
selected files.
[0186] In one embodiment, nodes that represent files in the
directory 1530 are included as selectable objects that the user on
the remote terminal 1550 can select. Selection of an object
representing a node is communicated as input 1582 to the host
terminal 1510, which maps the input to the node of the directory
1530 and then causes the file of that node to be communicated out.
Selection of an object representing a node may result in one of two
actions: (i) the underlying file 1584 is transferred (i.e. copied
and communicated) to the remote terminal 1550, or (ii) the
underlying file 1584 is rendered as web content that is downloaded
and viewed on the remote terminal 1550. The transfer or rendering
of a file may be performed by the directory view application 1512,
or alternatively by a file sharing or transfer component (not
shown) of the larger communication platform 1525. As shown with
embodiments described below, the communication platform 1525 may
organize and display various kinds of files from directory 1530,
including media files. The communication platform 1525 may scan or
otherwise identify media and other files, and have knowledge of
some or all of the files independent of the directory view
application 1512.
[0187] In the file transfer usage, the underlying file may be
communicated to the remote terminal 1550 as a socket or direct
connection. A download manager 1555 of the manager may receive the
incoming file 1572 and enable the user of the remote terminal 1555
to either open the file or save the file. If the user opens the
file 1572, the file type of the underlying file may be recognized
and the download manager 1555 may invoke an application that is
pre-selected to handle files of the particular type. For example,
the download manager 1555 may transfer audio and video files to a
media player 1560 when the incoming file 1572 is a media file, and
the media manager 1560 may render the media file independent of the
browser rendering.
[0188] In the case where the remote terminal 1550 downloads and
views the file as web content, the server 1505 may render the file
as display content and incorporate the display content as part of
the overall web page 1576 that is communicated to the browser
1554.
[0189] Under an embodiment, another activity that can occur in a
system such as shown by FIG. 15 is the uploading of a file from the
remote terminal 1550 to the host terminal 1510. The directory view
component 1512 may include an upload feature to enable browser 1554
to perform an upload transfer. An uploaded file 1586 may be
communicated from the remote terminal 1550 to the host terminal
1510 and stored in the directory 1530. The user may specify the
node and/or path for the file's location in the directory 1530.
Under one embodiment, uploading operations may be performed when
the requesting component 1510 is capable of transmitting the file
to be uploaded. In an implementation in which the components shown
by FIG. 15 are satellites, the file transfer application 1512 may
know of the status of the file manager 1520 and the directory 1530,
so that upload operations are only possible when the status of
those satellites are available. Any transport protocol may be used,
including HTTP transport, UDP, or FTP transport.
[0190] According to one alternative embodiment, the directory view
component 1512, and possibly the manager 1530 and/or the directory
1530 are satellites that form elements of a larger network. As
satellites, each component or element may have an interface to
enable it to communicate and operate cooperatively with other
components and devices that have the same interface. With specific
reference to the directory view component 1512, the component may
have its functionality available to other satellites and components
that can communicate with the personal network on which the file
manager is a part of. As such, directory 1530 may include or list
directories from more than one computer, or even list memory
locations from online accounts. Furthermore, status information of
the directory view component 1512 and the file manager 1520 may be
known to components and/or devices that can use the file
manager.
[0191] As mentioned, one or more embodiments contemplate directory
1530 being for a combined memory (as described with other
embodiments) so that nodes that comprise the directory have various
physical locations. These locations may include nodes on the remote
terminal 1550 (particularly when the remote terminal is also a
satellite (i.e. includes a directory view component or other
satellite component)). Alternatively, the directory 1530 may be
distributed across multiple network locations, such as on Internet
accounts and multiple computers connected by LAN or Internet
connections. The directory 1530, or components of the directory
1530 (including nodes or specific documents) may thus have separate
physical locations. Connectivity between the directory view
component 1512, the file manager 1520 and portions or all of the
directory 1530 may be over one or more networks, such as a LAN, the
Internet, or other public network. It is thus possible for the file
manager 1520 to be on the same device or machine as the directory
1530. For example, a desktop computer may host both the file
manager 1520 and the directory 1530. Another implementation
contemplates the desktop computer to include the file manager 1520
and portions of the directory 1530, but other portions of the
directory 1530 are distributed across multiple locations and
possibly across more than one network or gateway. For example,
portions of the directory 1530 may be distributed on an Internet
account, or on the user's work station. As mentioned with other
embodiments, satellite configuration for components enable
components to operate together in an integrated fashion,
independent of physical and network location, platform in use, or
device.
[0192] The type of file transfers that may occur may be standard in
the network environment, and include HTTP transfers or streaming
transfers. In addition to transfers, the file transfer application
1512 may format the directory view data 1542 or transferred files
1572 to accommodate a platform or native browser or other
application on the remote terminal 1550. With regard to formatting
functions performed by the transport component for documents,
different type of format operations are possible. An application
conversion may be performed to make, for example, a document
compatible between two types of applications (e.g. MICROSOFT WORD
document, manufactured by the MICROSOFT CORP. converted to POCKET
PC, manufactured by the MICROSOFT CORP). As an alternative or
addition, a platform conversion may be performed, to enable a
document formatted for a particular platform suitable for another
platform. An example of this type of formatting may correspond to
transferring a document from a WINDOWS based device to a PALM OS
(manufactured by PALMSOURCE, INC.). The conversion may be enabled
because the file transfer application 1512 knows the platform or
application type of the remote terminal 1550. The transport
component (or an equivalent) may perform formatting operations
based on knowing the format of the requested document, and the
format of the requesting component 1510.
[0193] Still further, formatting operations may be performed to
accommodate device capabilities of the requesting device. For
example, a document may be formatted to enable a small form factor
device to view the document, using a smaller screen. As satellites,
one embodiment provides that the file transfer application 1512
knows of the device limitations of the requesting component, and
performs size fitting formatting operations to enable the document
to be viewed on the requesting device. All of the formatting
operations described may be part of a larger library of
functions.
[0194] Under an embodiment, the remote terminal 1550 may be
correspond to any one of a plurality of different kinds of web
enabled devices. The remote terminal 1550 may correspond to a fully
functioning computer (e.g. desktop computer) or a roaming device,
such as a cellular device. Such a device may be a satellite, or
non-satellite that communicates with the file manager via (i) a
browser, and/or (ii) separate interface (e.g. web interface). In
the case where the remote terminal 1550 is a non-satellite with a
web browser and web interface, upload and/or downloading may be
performed in a manner described above and elsewhere in this
application. If formatting and other conversion operations are
needed to make either upload or download operations effective, such
information may be determined from the original request or
communication from the remote terminal 1550. For example, the type
of web browser used may communicate significant information about
the device's capabilities and platform.
[0195] FIG. 16 illustrates a communication platform that combines
functionality for enabling sharing of media and files, under an
embodiment of the invention. A communication platform 1625 may
operate on a host terminal, or alternatively, on shared computing
resources that comprise a host personal network. In one embodiment,
the platform 1625 includes a directory viewing component 1612, a
media manager 1640, and a server component 1644. The directory
viewing component 1612 may interface with a resident file manager
1620 that provides an interface to a directory 1630.
[0196] In one embodiment, the communication platform is provided as
a software component or suite that a user can download on a host
terminal. Once downloaded, the platform 1625 establishes
communications with a server 1605. The platform 1625 may use
background processes to identify the host terminal, and perform
various processes such as retrieve select content from network
locations, and repeatedly poll for a remote user seeking access to
the host terminal.
[0197] According to one implementation, the media manager 1640
scans the hard drive of the host terminal for media files. The
media manager 1640 may leverage of the operating system of the host
terminal by checking files that are known to be dedicated to
storing media files. For example, in the WINDOWS environment,
folders corresponding to MY PICTURES, MY VIDEOS and MY MUSIC are
known to contain respective kinds of files. As an alternative or
addition, the media manager 1640 may scan the hard drive for file
extensions that correspond to music, images, and videos.
Furthermore, as described with, for example, an embodiment of FIG.
10, the media manager 1640 may be configured to identify files in
various remote memory locations, such as Internet accounts and work
stations and terminals that the user identifies. The media manager
1640 may also include components to interface and handle incoming
data from external streaming sources and broadcasts. Collectively,
these sources are referred to as media sources 1635.
[0198] The communications between the communication platform 1625
and the server 1605 may be communicated through a client-side
server component 1644. Data corresponding to media files or
generated by the directory view component 1612 may be transmitted
to the server 1605 from the server component 1644. In one
embodiment, the server maintains a connection and sends streams of
data representing content from media files or directory view data
to the server 1605.
[0199] In one embodiment, a system comprising the combination of
the server 1605 and the communication platform 1625 combine to
communicate data originating from the host terminal (or personal
network) to a remote terminal.
[0200] Another remote terminal may establish communications with
the host terminal through use of the server 1605. In one
embodiment, server 1605 is accessible through a website where the
user can enter password and login information. Once the information
is entered, the server 1605 couples the remote terminal to the host
terminal. Data from the host terminal may be communicated through
any one of numerous ways. In one embodiment, display content may be
rendered on the server 1605 and incorporated into a web page 1665
that is downloaded on the remote terminal. The result is that the
pictures, videos, or even audio files are delivered as web content
that the browser of the remote terminal handles and renders on the
remote terminal.
[0201] The view data 1614 generated by the directory view
application 1612 may be communicated through the server component
1644 to the server 1605, where it is rendered and made part of the
web page. In one embodiment, nodes displayed with the view on the
web page 1665 are active and selectable. Selection of a node
through the view may result in either the opening of a file on the
host terminal, or the transfer of the file. The directory view
application 1612 may interface with a document represented by a
selected node to generate view data 1614 representing the contents
of the document. The view data 1614 may also be formulated into web
content by the server 1605.
[0202] Media data 1642, generated from media servers 1635, may be
communicated (i.e. as streaming) to the server 1605. The server
1605 may identify and relay such data to an appropriate component
of the device, such as an identified media player operating on the
remote device.
[0203] Other embodiments provide for file transfer outputs 1675. In
one embodiment, file transfer are requested by the user when
viewing the directory on the remote terminal. The user can select
an object representing a file or node of the directory, and trigger
an operation (i.e. through a "right click") indicating a desire to
have the file represented by the selected node transferred to the
remote terminal. To communicate a file transfer, the server
component may independently, or through use of another component
(e.g. directory view component) copy the file and stream or
otherwise communicate it tot the server 1605. The server 1605 may
relay it to the download manager of the browser of the remote
terminal, where the user can either save the file or open it.
[0204] As mentioned with other embodiments, the communication of
some or all of the data from the host terminal may be configured or
structured for capabilities (e.g. display size, processing
capabilities, type of browser or media player, network bandwidth)
of the receiving remote terminal. These configurations may be
performed by the server 1605, the server component 1644 (or other
component of the communication platform 1625), or a combination
thereof.
[0205] As an alternative to server 1605, embodiments contemplate
use of other architectures, including peer-to-peer systems. In the
latter case, the server component 1644, for example, is capable of
peer-to-peer communications with remote terminals (which may or may
not be satellites).
[0206] FIG. 17 illustrates a web page created by a server for a
remote terminal, under an embodiment of the invention. According to
one or more embodiments, a web page 1710 such as shown by FIG. 17
may be created by the server 1605 (FIG. 16) from data communicated
to it by the communication platform 1625 (FIG. 16). Web page 1710
includes various features that include listings of media files
1712, and Internet service information 1714 (such as stocks or
weather). The listing of media files 1712 may be organized
independently of how the media files may be organized in their
native environment. For example, a MY MUSIC list on the web page
may list all music files on the host terminal or personal network
by favorites, or alphabetically.
[0207] In addition, one embodiment provides that the web page 1710
includes a trigger feature 1720 to trigger the directory view
component 1612 (FIG. 16) to interface with the file manager 1720.
Selection of the feature enables the web page 1710 to include at
least some display space that shows what the file manager would
show on the host terminal if operated directly by the user.
CONCLUSION
[0208] Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been
described in detail herein with reference to the accompanying
drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited
to those precise embodiments. As such, many modifications and
variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in this art.
Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of the invention be
defined by the following claims and their equivalents. Furthermore,
it is contemplated that a particular feature described either
individually or as part of an embodiment can be combined with other
individually described features, or parts of other embodiments,
even if the other features and embodiments make no mentioned of the
particular feature. This, the absence of describing combinations
should not preclude the inventor from claiming rights to such
combinations.
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