U.S. patent application number 13/562091 was filed with the patent office on 2013-02-14 for systems and methods for electronic communication using unique identifiers associated with electronic addresses.
The applicant listed for this patent is Andrew Michael Phipps, Frederick Mitchell Thrower, III. Invention is credited to Andrew Michael Phipps, Frederick Mitchell Thrower, III.
Application Number | 20130041961 13/562091 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47678225 |
Filed Date | 2013-02-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130041961 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Thrower, III; Frederick Mitchell ;
et al. |
February 14, 2013 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION USING UNIQUE
IDENTIFIERS ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRONIC ADDRESSES
Abstract
A method and system for electronically communicating with a user
knowing only a unique identifier associated with that user is
described. An electronic message having an address based upon the
unique identifier and consistent with an assigned convention is
sent from a portable device and received by a server system. The
message sent may include attachments such as, for example,
pictures, audio and/or video files. The server system includes or
is capable of accessing an electronic repository in which a
plurality of unique identifiers are respectively associated with a
corresponding plurality of profiles. Upon receipt at the server
system, the message and any attachments are stored in association
with a profile corresponding to the unique identifier. The server
system then facilitates access to the message information and any
attachments in accordance with the profile.
Inventors: |
Thrower, III; Frederick
Mitchell; (US) ; Phipps; Andrew Michael;
(US) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Thrower, III; Frederick Mitchell
Phipps; Andrew Michael |
|
|
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
47678225 |
Appl. No.: |
13/562091 |
Filed: |
July 30, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13231760 |
Sep 13, 2011 |
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13562091 |
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61513415 |
Jul 29, 2011 |
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61382442 |
Sep 13, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
709/206 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 51/14 20130101;
H04L 51/28 20130101; G06Q 10/10 20130101; H04L 51/08 20130101; H04L
51/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
709/206 |
International
Class: |
G06F 15/16 20060101
G06F015/16 |
Claims
1. A computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication using unique identifiers, the method comprising:
establishing an electronic repository in which a plurality of
unique identifiers are respectively associated with a corresponding
plurality of profiles; receiving an electronic message having an
address based upon at least one identifier of the plurality of
unique identifiers; determining the address is of a predefined
address format specific to the plurality of unique identifiers;
storing message information included within the electronic message
in association with a profile included within the plurality of
profiles wherein the at least one identifier is associated with the
profile; and facilitating access to the message information in
accordance with the profile.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
sending a notification relating to the message information
consistent with the profile.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
storing the message information in a web-based stored messaging
system.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
sending the message information in an e-mail message addressed to
an e-mail address included within the profile.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
forwarding the message information to a messaging platform.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
placing a call to a telephone number included within the
profile.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein the call includes a notification
relating to the existence of the message information.
8. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
forwarding the message information to a social networking
platform.
9. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
posting the message information to a web site.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein the at least one identifier is
associated with multiple electronic addresses.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein the multiple electronic
addresses are respectively associated with multiple physical
addresses within an area defined by a zip code.
12. The method of claim 10 wherein the multiple electronic
addresses are respectively associated with multiple phone numbers
included in an area code.
13. The method of claim 1 further including determining that the
electronic message includes at least one attachment and storing the
at least one attachment separately from the message
information.
14. The method of claim 13 further including facilitating access to
the at least one attachment.
15. The method of claim 1 wherein the facilitating access includes
receiving a request to access the message information and verifying
legitimacy of the request.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the verifying legitimacy
includes verifying that a receiver of the request is rightfully
associated with the at least one identifier.
17. The method of claim 1 wherein the electronic message is
generated by a mobile device based upon barcode information
accessible to the mobile device, the barcode information
incorporating the at least one identifier.
18. A computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication using unique identifiers, the method comprising:
establishing an electronic repository in which a plurality of
unique identifiers are respectively associated with a corresponding
plurality of profiles; receiving an electronic message having an
address based upon at least one identifier of the plurality of
unique identifiers; storing message information included within the
electronic message in association with a profile included within
the plurality of profiles wherein the at least one identifier is
associated with the profile; and receiving a request to access to
the message information; and verifying legitimacy of the
request.
19. The method of claim 18 further including determining the
address is of a predefined address format specific to the plurality
of unique identifiers.
20. A computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication, comprising: receiving message information; receiving
a unique identifier corresponding to an electronic address wherein
the unique identifier is formatted consistent with predefined
identifier format included among a plurality of predefined
identifier formats; and sending an electronic message to the
electronic address.
21. A computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication, comprising: receiving message information; receiving
a unique identifier corresponding to an electronic address wherein
the unique identifier is formatted consistent with predefined
identifier format included among a plurality of predefined
identifier formats; and sending, to the electronic address, a
notification relating to the message information.
22. A computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication, comprising: receiving first message information;
receiving a first unique identifier corresponding to a first
electronic address wherein the first unique identifier is formatted
consistent with a first predefined identifier format; receiving
second message information; receiving a second unique identifier
corresponding to a second electronic address wherein the second
unique identifier is formatted consistent with a second predefined
identifier format; and sending the first message information to the
first electronic address and the second message information to the
second electronic address.
23. A computer program product comprising a computer-readable
medium including codes for causing a computer to: establish an
electronic repository in which a plurality of unique identifiers
are respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of
profiles; receive an electronic message having an address based
upon at least one identifier of the plurality of unique
identifiers; determine the address is of a predefined address
format specific to the plurality of unique identifiers; store
message information included within the electronic message in
association with a profile included within the plurality of
profiles wherein the at least one identifier is associated with the
profile; and facilitate access to the message information in
accordance with the profile.
24. A computer program product comprising a computer-readable
medium including codes for causing a computer to: establish an
electronic repository in which a plurality of unique identifiers
are respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of
profiles; receive an electronic message having an address based
upon at least one identifier of the plurality of unique
identifiers; store message information included within the
electronic message in association with a profile included within
the plurality of profiles wherein the at least one identifier is
associated with the profile; and receive a request to access to the
message information; and verify legitimacy of the request.
25. A computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication, comprising: scanning a barcode; determining, from
the barcode, a unique identifier corresponding to an electronic
address; receiving message information; and sending an electronic
message containing the message information to the electronic
address.
26. The method of claim 25 wherein the unique identifier is
formatted consistent with predefined identifier format included
among a plurality of predefined identifier formats.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/513,415, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ELECTRONIC
COMMUNICATION USING UNIQUE IDENTIFIERS ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRONIC
ADDRESSES, filed on Jul. 29, 2011, the content of which is hereby
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/231,760, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR
USER INTERACTION BASED ON LICENSE OR OTHER IDENTIFICATION
INFORMATION, filed on Sep. 13, 2011, which claims priority under 35
U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/382,442, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USER INTERACTION BASED
ON LICENSE OR OTHER IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION, filed on Sep. 13,
2010, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference
herein in their entirety for all purposes.
FIELD
[0002] This application is directed generally to methods and
systems for electronic communication. More particularly, but not
exclusively, the application relates to systems and apparatuses for
electronic communication using unique identifiers associated with
electronic addresses.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Electronic mail, or "e-mail", is used to transmit messages
over communication networks. Existing e-mail client applications
enable a user to compose a message to an intended recipient. The
message may then be sent to the intended recipient by entering the
recipient's email address into an address field presented by the
e-mail client application.
[0004] Unfortunately, however, an individual desiring to send an
e-mail message to, or otherwise electronically communicate with, an
intended recipient or recipient(s) may be unaware of the e-mail or
other electronic address(es) of such recipient(s). Moreover, the
e-mail or other electronic address of a particular intended
recipient may change, which may frustrate those desiring to
electronically communicate with such recipient to the extent they
are not apprised of such change.
SUMMARY
[0005] In one aspect the disclosure relates to a
computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication using unique identifiers. The method includes
establishing an electronic repository in which a plurality of
unique identifiers is respectively associated with a corresponding
plurality of profiles. The method further includes receiving an
electronic message having an address based upon at least one
identifier of the plurality of unique identifiers. It is then
determined whether the address is of a predefined address format
specific to the plurality of unique identifiers. The method further
includes storing message information included within the electronic
message in association with a profile included within the plurality
of profiles wherein the at least one identifier is associated with
the profile. Access to the message information is then facilitated
in accordance with the profile.
[0006] In a particular aspect access to the message information may
be facilitated by sending a notification relating to the message
information consistent with the profile. In another implementation
such access may be facilitated by storing the message information
in a web-based stored messaging system. Such access may
alternatively be facilitated by sending the message information in
an e-mail message addressed to an e-mail address included within
the profile. In other implementation such access may be facilitated
by, for example, forwarding the message information to a messaging
or social networking platform, placing a call to a telephone number
included within the profile, or posting the message information to
a web site.
[0007] In one implementation the identifier may be associated with
multiple electronic addresses. These multiple electronic addresses
may, for example, be respectively associated with multiple physical
addresses within an area defined by a zip code. The multiple
electronic addresses could also be respectively associated with
multiple phone numbers included in an area code.
[0008] The electronic message having an address based upon the
unique identifier may be sent by an electronic device in the form
of a terminal or a portable device, such as a cell phone, PDA, user
equipment, portable computer, tablet computer, or other device. In
one implementation the address is manually entered into the device
based upon the unique identifier. Barcode (UPC symbol), QR code, or
other information containing or representing the unique identifier
may also be captured by a camera or other sensing element of the
user device and the address may then subsequently generated based
upon the unique identifier.
[0009] The electronic message, which may comprise, for example, an
e-mail message, may be sent to an e-mail server or the equivalent
via a cellular connection, data connection, or other wired or
wireless network connection such as a CDMA, GSM, LTE, Wi-Fi
(802.11), Wi-Max, and/or other network connection.
[0010] Each unique identifier may comprise, for example, a street
address, a telephone phone number, an international standard book
number (ISBN), an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI),
an international mobile equipment identity (IMEI) or mobile
equipment identifier (MEI), a global trade item number (GTIN), an
electronic product code (EPC), a biometric identifier, an RFID tag,
a vehicle identification number (VIN), a patent number, a point of
sale or transaction identifier, a passport, a library of congress
control number, a license plate number, an international standard
musical work code (ISWC), a global location number, a location or
GPS coordinates, an international product serial number, a brand
name or trademark, an international standard recording code, an
electronic serial number, a credit card number, a rewards card, a
tracking number, a global release identifier (GRID), a digital
object identifier (DOI), a time stamp, a social security number, a
driver's license number, an iPhone unique user identifier, a
Blackberry Messenger PIN or a racing bib number.
[0011] In one embodiment the electronic address (e.g., e-mail
address) corresponding to each class of unique identifier is of a
predefined format. For example, in one implementation the
predefined format for an electronic address based upon a street
address is STREETADDRESS.CITY.STATE@BUMP.COM, the predefined format
for an electronic address based upon a VIN is
123456768901234567@VIN.BUMP.COM, the predefined format for an
electronic address based upon a passport number is
COUNTRY.PASSPORTNUMBER@PASSPORT.BUMP.COM, and so on.
[0012] In another aspect the disclosure relates to a
computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication using unique identifiers. The method includes
establishing an electronic repository in which a plurality of
unique identifiers are respectively associated with a corresponding
plurality of profiles. The method further includes receiving an
electronic message having an address based upon at least one
identifier of the plurality of unique identifiers. The message
information included within the electronic message is then stored
in association with a profile included within the plurality of
profiles wherein the at least one identifier is associated with the
profile. The method also includes receiving a request to access to
the message information and verifying legitimacy of the
request.
[0013] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a
computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication which includes receiving message information. The
method includes receiving a unique identifier corresponding to an
electronic address wherein the unique identifier is formatted
consistent with predefined identifier format included among a
plurality of predefined identifier formats. The method further
includes sending an electronic message to the electronic
address.
[0014] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a
computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication which includes receiving message information. The
method includes receiving a unique identifier corresponding to an
electronic address wherein the unique identifier is formatted
consistent with predefined identifier format included among a
plurality of predefined identifier formats. The method further
includes sending, to the electronic address, a notification
relating to the message information.
[0015] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a
computer-implemented method for facilitating electronic
communication. The method includes receiving first message
information receiving a first unique identifier corresponding to a
first electronic address wherein the first unique identifier is
formatted consistent with a first predefined identifier format. The
method further includes receiving second message information and a
second unique identifier corresponding to a second electronic
address, wherein the second unique identifier is formatted
consistent with a second predefined identifier format. The method
also includes sending the first message information to the first
electronic address and the second message information to the second
electronic address.
[0016] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a computer
program product comprising a computer-readable medium including
codes for causing a computer to establish, at a server system, an
electronic repository in which a plurality of unique identifiers
are respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of
profiles; receive an electronic message having an address based
upon at least one identifier of the plurality of unique
identifiers; store message information included within the
electronic message in association with a profile included within
the plurality of profiles wherein the at least one identifier is
associated with the profile; receive a request to access to the
message information; and verify legitimacy of the request.
[0017] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a computer
program product comprising a computer-readable medium including
codes for causing a computer to scan a barcode; determine, from the
barcode, a unique identifier corresponding to an electronic
address; receive message information; and send an electronic
message containing the message information to the electronic
address.
[0018] Additional aspects, details, features and functions are
further described below in conjunction with the appended
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0019] For a better understanding of the nature and objects of
various embodiments of the invention, reference should be made to
the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system in which various
embodiments in accordance with the disclosure may be
implemented;
[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary device configuration for a
mobile device on which may be implemented various embodiments in
accordance with the disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary server configuration on
which may be implemented various embodiments in accordance with the
disclosure;
[0023] FIGS. 4A and 4B show an exemplary process for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
physical address;
[0024] FIGS. 5A and 5B show an exemplary process for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
phone number;
[0025] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a biometric
identifier;
[0026] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a brand name;
[0027] FIG. 8 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a credit card
number;
[0028] FIG. 9 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Digital Object
Identifier (DOI);
[0029] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a drivers license
(DL);
[0030] FIG. 11 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an Electronic
Product Code (EPC);
[0031] FIG. 12 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an Electronic
Serial Number (ESN);
[0032] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Global Location
Number (GLN);
[0033] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Global Release
Identifier (GRID);
[0034] FIG. 15 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Global Trade
Item Number (GTIN);
[0035] FIG. 16 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Global
Positioning System (GPS) coordinate;
[0036] FIG. 17 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an International
Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number;
[0037] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an International
Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) number;
[0038] FIG. 19 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an International
Product Serial Number (PSN);
[0039] FIG. 20 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an International
Standard Book Number (ISBN);
[0040] FIG. 21 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an International
Standard Music Number (ISMN);
[0041] FIG. 22 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an International
Standard Musical Work Code (ISWC);
[0042] FIG. 23 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with an International
Standard Recording Code (ISRC);
[0043] FIG. 24 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Library of
Congress Control Number (LCCN);
[0044] FIG. 25 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a License
Plate;
[0045] FIG. 26 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a specific
location/establishment;
[0046] FIG. 27 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Media Access
Control (MAC) number;
[0047] FIG. 28 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Mobile Equipment
Identifier (MEI);
[0048] FIG. 29 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a passport;
[0049] FIG. 30 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a patent
number;
[0050] FIG. 31 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a physical
address;
[0051] FIG. 32 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Point Of
Sale/Transaction (POS) identifier;
[0052] FIG. 33 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a published patent
application;
[0053] FIG. 34 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) Tag;
[0054] FIG. 35 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a rewards
card;
[0055] FIG. 36 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Social Security
Number (SSN);
[0056] FIG. 37 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a telephone
number;
[0057] FIG. 38 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Time Stamp
(TS);
[0058] FIG. 39 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a tracking
number;
[0059] FIG. 40 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Trademark
Number.TM.;
[0060] FIG. 41 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN);
[0061] FIG. 42 shows an exemplary process for sending messages to
one or more electronic addresses associated with a QR Code; and
[0062] FIGS. 43A and 43B show another exemplary process for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a QR
Code.
[0063] In the appended figures, similar components and/or features
may have the same reference label. Further, various components of
the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label
by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar
components. If only the first reference label is used in the
specification, the description is applicable to any one of the
similar components having the same first reference label
irrespective of the second reference label.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0064] In general, this disclosure describes a method and system
for electronically communicating with a user or users knowing only
a unique identifier associated with that user or users. An
electronic message having an address based upon the unique
identifier and consistent with an assigned convention is sent from
a portable or other electronic device and received by a server
system. The sending device could comprise, for example, a computer
terminal, a cell phone, a tablet, an iPad, an iPod, a conventional
telephone, a facsimile machine, and the equivalent. The message
sent may include attachments such as, for example, pictures, audio
and/or video files. The server system includes or is capable of
accessing an electronic repository in which a plurality of unique
identifiers are respectively associated with a corresponding
plurality of profiles. Upon receipt at the server system, the
message and any attachments are stored in association with a
profile corresponding to the unique identifier. The server system
then facilitates access to the message information and any
attachments in accordance with the profile. For example, the server
system may send the message information and attachments to one or
more e-mail addresses and/or to user accounts maintained by one or
more social networking platforms. Alternatively or in addition, the
server system could facilitate access to the message information by
providing appropriate notification to one or more electronic
devices or electronic accounts. Following such notification the
intended recipient(s) could then either check their respective
electronic accounts for communications containing the message
information or otherwise access the message information through a
web site or stored message server.
[0065] The server system may comprise one or more servers or other
computer systems that may be integral or distributed. The server
system may be configured to provide one or more modules for
performing the various processes, methods, stages, steps and/or
other functions as further described herein, which may be
implemented in hardware, software, firmware or combinations of
these. The server system may include or be connected to one or more
databases on which application data and information, such as, for
example, user information, information relating to unique
identifiers and associated profile information, and/or other
information may be stored.
[0066] In accordance with one aspect, a user may enter an
electronic address containing a unique identifier into an e-mail or
other messaging client executing on the user's mobile or other
electronic device. This electronic address will preferably be of a
predefined format consistent with the type of unique identifier
being utilized. For example, in the case in which a user is
attempting to send a message to a street address for receipt by an
individual or entity rightfully associated with the street address,
the predefined format or convention of the electronic address could
be STREETADDRESS.CITY.STATE@BUMP.COM. In the case in which a user
is attempting to send a message to a VIN for receipt by an
individual or entity rightfully associated with the vehicle
corresponding to the VIN, the predefined format or convention of
the electronic address could be, for example,
123456768901234567@VIN.BUMP.COM, where the numerical string
"123456768901234567" represents the particular VIN.
[0067] In other embodiments an application on a user's mobile
device may be configured to capture an image, such as an image of a
barcode, QR code or other machine-readable-representation of a
unique identifier, and automatically generate an electronic address
corresponding to such a unique identifier. In other embodiments a
user's mobile device may be adapted to electronically read the
unique identifier using other technological means (e.g., using RFID
or NFC techniques).
[0068] The user could then enter message information and the
electronic address into, for example, an e-mail client.
Alternatively, the application could automatically create an
addressed message template (or invoke an e-mail or other messaging
client to create such an addressed message template) and provide
the user the opportunity to enter desired message information into
the body portion of the addressed message template.
[0069] In one embodiment the server system includes a mail server
for receiving the electronic message sent by the portable or other
electronic device. The mail server may function as a central
repository for receiving all the electronic messages sent to the
fully qualified domain name used in the electronic address. The
server system may also include a web server configured to host a
computer readable script for pulling all messages directed to the
fully qualified domain name mail inbox. A computer readable script
will also generally determine if the message was sent using a valid
unique identifier convention. A computer readable script also
separates out the unique identifier and processes the message body.
A computer readable script further determines if the message
includes any attachments (i.e. audio, picture, video). A computer
readable script processes the attachments. A computer readable
script uploads any attachments to a data storage web server.
[0070] A computer readable script determines if there is an
existing profile in the database hosted on a web server. If a
profile does not exist in the database matching the unique
identifier, then a computer readable script creates a profile in
the database. The message information is then stored in the
database and associated to the unique identifier profile in the
database. A recipient user claims the message by, for example,
electronic certification of being the rightful holder of the unique
identifier. A computer readable script can match data of the
rightful holder associated name and the unique identifier to other
existing data stored on a web server that further verifies that the
recipient user is the actual rightful holder of the unique
identifier.
[0071] Attention is now directed to FIG. 1, which illustrates
details of a system 100 in which various embodiments may be
implemented. System 100 includes a server system comprised of a
mail server system 110 and a web server system 112 communicatively
coupled to a network 113. The network 113 may be comprised of
various data and/or telecommunications networks. The system 100
further includes a sending user device 120 as well as user devices
associated with one or more message recipients, such as a first
recipient user device 130 and a second recipient user device 140.
The sending user device 120 may comprise, for example, a mobile
device 122, personal computer 124, or other device capable of
electronic communication. Similarly, the first recipient user
device 130 may comprise, for example, a mobile device 132, personal
computer 134, or other device capable of electronic communication.
Likewise, the second recipient user device 140 may comprise, for
example, a mobile device 142, personal computer 144, or other
device capable of electronic communication.
[0072] In one embodiment the mail server system 110 includes a mail
server 114 and a central repository 115 designed to hold messages
received from a sending user device 120. The web server system 112
may include a web server 118 and associated data storage 119.
Various other elements (not shown) may be included in system 100,
including multiple other users and their associated mobile (or
fixed) devices, as well as other interconnected systems, such as
databases, record storage sites or data warehouses, or systems
associated with other social networking systems.
[0073] In operation, the sending user device 120 sends, to the mail
server 114, message information targeted to a unique identifier
associated with one or more recipient user devices such as the
first recipient user device 130 and/or the second recipient user
device 140. For example, the sending user device 120 may send, to
the mail server 114, an e-mail message having an address directed
to a specific domain name (e.g., BUMP.COM, VIN.BUMP.COM,
ISBN.BUMP.COM, PATENT.BUMP.COM, RFID.BUMP.COM, GPS.BUMP.COM, etc.)
and containing one of the above-referenced unique identifiers. In
some implementations, the message information within such an e-mail
message may be stored in the central repository 115 until such time
as the recipient user device creates an account or otherwise
interacts with web server system 112, such as by accessing a web
page provided by or from web server 118.
[0074] In one embodiment the web server 118 is configured to host a
computer readable script for pulling from the central repository
115 all messages directed to one or more specific domain names. A
computer readable script executed by the web server 118 may also
generally determine if the message was sent using a valid unique
identifier convention. A computer readable script running on the
web server 118 may also separate out the unique identifier and
process the message body. A computer readable script executed by
the web server 118 further determines if the message includes any
attachments (i.e. audio, picture, video). A computer readable
script processes the attachments and stores them within data
storage 119.
[0075] A computer readable script executed by the web server 118
determines if an existing profile within data storage 119 is
associated with the unique identifier in the message sent by the
sending user device 120 and received by the mail server 114. If a
profile does not exist in the database matching this unique
identifier, then a computer readable script executed by the web
server 118 creates a profile in a database within the data storage
119. The message information is then stored in the database and
associated to the unique identifier profile in the database. A
recipient user claims the message by, for example, electronic
certification of being the rightful holder of the unique
identifier. A computer readable script can match data of the
rightful holder associated name and the unique identifier to other
existing data stored on a web server that further verifies that the
recipient user is the actual rightful holder of the unique
identifier.
[0076] FIG. 2 illustrates details of an embodiment of a mobile
device 220, which may, for example, correspond to mobile devices
122, 132, 142 as shown in FIG. 1. In an exemplary embodiment,
mobile device 220 includes one or more application programs that
implement the various mobile device functions as further described
herein. The application program may be in the form of a computer
readable medium including instructions for execution on one or more
processors of the mobile device, such as processor module 221. The
instructions may be stored in a memory 226 of the mobile device,
and corresponding display and interaction screens may be presented
on display module 224. A transmitter/receiver module 223 may be
includes to provide connectivity between mobile device 220 and a
server system, such as mail server 114 or web server 118 of FIG. 1.
In addition, a camera/video module 222 may be included in mobile
device 120. The application program(s) may use the camera module to
capture images or video, such as images or video of unique
identifier information (whether in plain text or encoded in a
barcode or other encoded representation). The application programs
may further include modules configured to process the images to
generate information such as, for example, the unique identifier or
a blank e-mail message template addressed to an electronic address
corresponding to the unique identifier. Alternately or in addition,
this unique identifier information may be input by a user as part
of an e-mail address or other electronic address comporting with a
predefined convention.
[0077] Attention is now directed to FIG. 3, which illustrates
details of an embodiment of a server 300, such as mail server 114
or web server 118 of FIG. 1. Server 300 may include a processor
module 311 and associated program modules 316-1 configured to
perform the various functions as described further herein. In
addition, server 300 may include one or more display modules 314,
and one or more send/receive modules configured to send and/or
receive information from users, such as from the users' computer
systems. In addition, server 300 may include a send/receive module
313 configured to send and/or receive information to mobile devices
122, 132, 142.
[0078] Referring again to FIG. 1, in one embodiment the central
repository 115 includes a plurality of unique identifiers
respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of
electronic addresses. Each such electronic address may comprise,
for example, an electronic mail address (e.g., AZ.PL8STR@BUMP.COM),
an SEO-optimized posting on a website, a computer-generated URL
(e.g., http://bump.com/AZ/PL8STR), an instant messaging chat
address (e.g., Skype.RTM.), a phone number associated for direct
call or text message, an associated social networking identity
(e.g., Facebook.RTM., MySpace.RTM., Ebay.RTM.), or an electronic
link to online information associated with the unique identifier
(e.g., an electronic link to a profile, to other links, to
information associated with the make/model/year of a car, to
insurance information, to VIN information, or to mechanic
information).
[0079] The mail server system 110 and web server system 112 may
cooperate in order to facilitate access to message information sent
by a sending user device 120 to an electronic address embodying a
unique identifier associated with one or more recipient user
devices. Such access may be facilitated by, for example, storing
and/or forwarding the message information (e.g., text, audio,
picture, and/or video) in full or in abbreviated form using one or
more of the following approaches: [0080] 1. Storing the message
information on a web-based stored messaging system. [0081] 2.
Forwarding/associating the message information to a recipient
registered email address. [0082] 3. Forwarding/associating the
message information to an instant messenger platform. [0083] 4.
Forwarding/associating the message information to a text based
messaging platform. [0084] 5. Forwarding/associating the message
information to a telephone number. [0085] 6. Forwarding/associating
the message information to a social networking platform. [0086] 7.
Forwarding/associating the message information to an electronic
news feed. [0087] 8. Forwarding/associating the message information
to a micro-blogging service. [0088] 9. Forwarding/associating the
message information to an Internet-connected mobile application.
[0089] 10. Posting the message information to a website. [0090] 11.
Printing the message information and forwarding via postal mail.
[0091] 12. Creating a hyperlink corresponding to that message
information. [0092] 13. Providing related data corresponding to the
unique identifier; a user is presented with a graphical display on
a website or on a mobile device and/or a phone prompt for audio
ratings. [0093] 14. Providing the message information to a
web-based (or cloud-based) stored voicemail messaging system.
[0094] In one embodiment the profile associated with a particular
unique identifier may map the identifier to, or otherwise associate
the identifier with, certain defined regions, segments, areas, area
codes. For example, a unique identifier could be associated with
all unique physical addresses within a select zip code. Similarly,
the identifier could be associated with all unique phone numbers in
a select area code. In another example, the identifier could be
mapped to a subset of the license plate numbers in a given state
(e.g., to the alphanumeric license plate codes assigned to
government-owned vehicles, to the license plate codes assigned to
vehicles within a particular county, or to the license plate codes
assigned to taxis or other commercial vehicles).
[0095] As an example of a potential application of the messaging
infrastructure and methods described herein, consider the case in
which a car manufacturer desires to electronically deliver recall
information to a car owner. Using a graphical display on an
Internet-connected electronic device, the car manufacturer sends a
communication access request relating to one of the VINs associated
with the manufacturer. The communication access request relating to
the VIN is received by a server, such as by the mail server 114.
The legitimacy of the communication access request may then be
validated and electronic communication established to an electronic
address corresponding to the VIN. In one embodiment both the
legitimacy of the communication access request originating from a
sending device and a request to access the message information
accompanying the access request are validated. In other embodiments
only a request to access message information sent with respect to a
particular identifier is validated.
[0096] In another embodiment the operators of an adventure park
(e.g., LegoLand.RTM.) may desire to deliver an electronic coupon in
bulk to all physical addresses in a select zip code range. Using a
graphical display on an Internet-connected electronic device, the
operators send a communication access request relating to all
physical addresses in a select zip code. The communication access
request relating to the plurality of physical addresses is received
on a network-connected server (e.g., mail server 114) is received.
The legitimacy of the communication access request sent from the
Internet-connected device and/or a request by a recipient user
device associated with a physical address in the select zip code
range may then be validated in the manner described herein.
Following such validation a server system (e.g., mail server 114
and/or web server 118) may then facilitate electronic communication
of the electronic coupon to the electronic address corresponding to
the validated physical address.
[0097] In another example, a postal Global Location Number could be
used as a unique identifier or utilized in connection with a
process of verifying the corresponding address consistent with the
teachings herein.
[0098] The teachings herein could also be utilized by a
governmental entity desiring to quickly deliver an alert message to
a group of cell phone numbers. A government agency could, using a
graphical display on an Internet-connected electronic device, issue
a communication access request relating to a plurality of ESNs
(Electronic Serial Numbers). The communication access request
relating to the plurality of ESNs is received on a
network-connected server (e.g., mail server 114) is received. The
legitimacy of the communication access request sent from the
Internet-connected device and/or a request by a recipient user
device associated with one of the plurality of ESNs may then be
validated in the manner described herein. Following such validation
a server system (e.g., mail server 114 and/or web server 118) may
then facilitate electronic communication of the alert message to
each validated recipient electronic address.
[0099] Consider next an example in which the management of a retail
store desires to communicate with persons shopping in their store.
In this example the retail store would like to deliver a special
coupon to each patron of the store for which a security camera has
captured their facial image. In this example facial recognition
software is used to capture the face of each patron thereby
creating an associated unique identifier tag. An electronic
repository is established in which a plurality of these facial
recognition unique identifiers (i.e. numeric templates) are
respectively associated with a plurality of electronic addresses.
The store management could, using a graphical display on an
Internet-connected electronic device, issue a communication access
request relating to a particular one of the customer faces captured
by the facial recognition software. The communication access
request is received on a network-connected server (e.g., mail
server 114) is received and the legitimacy of a request by a
recipient user device is validated (e.g., by matching against a
facial recognition database). Following such validation a server
system (e.g., mail server 114 and/or web server 118) may then
facilitate electronic communication to the electronic address
corresponding to the user's face.
[0100] Attention is now directed to FIG. 4, which is a flow chart
400 representative of a process for sending messages to one or more
electronic addresses associated with a physical address. In a stage
410 (FIG. 4A), a sending user sends an electronic message to a
physical address using a pre-defined convention of <STREET
ADDRESS.CITY.STATE>@BUMP.COM. The electronic message is received
by a mail server acting as a central repository for receiving the
electronic messages sent to the fully qualified domain name (stage
414). A computer readable script hosted on a web server pulls all
messages directed to the fully qualified domain name mail inbox
(stage 418). A computer readable script determines if the address
used in the email message has a valid <STREET
ADDRESS.CITY.STATE> convention (stage 422). A computer readable
script splits the physical address into <STREET
ADDRESS.CITY.STATE> (stage 426). In a stage 430, a computer
readable script processes the message body and determines if the
message has any attachments (i.e. audio, picture, video). A
computer readable script then processes the attachments and uploads
any attachments to a data storage web server (stage 434).
[0101] In a stage 438 (FIG. 4B), a computer readable script
determines if the <STREET ADDRESS.CITY.STATE> has an existing
profile in the database hosted on a web server. If a profile does
not exist in the database matching the <STREET
ADDRESS.CITY.STATE>, then a computer readable script creates a
<STREET ADDRESS.CITY.STATE> profile in the database (stage
442). The electronic message is stored in the database to the
<STREET ADDRESS.CITY.STATE> profile (stage 446). In a stage
450, a recipient user claims the message by electronic
certification of being the rightful holder of the <STREET
ADDRESS.CITY.STATE> identifier. A computer readable script can
match data of the rightful holders associated name and address to
other existing data stored on a web server that further verifies
that the recipient user is the actual rightful holder of the
physical address, such as verifying a pin number on a pre-mailed
physical letter to the physical address. In a stage 454, a
recipient user may associate an email address, a phone number, an
instant messaging address to be further notified of new messages
and based on user preferences of receiving those notifications.
Access to the message information is then facilitated by, for
example, either sending an electronic communication containing the
message information (e.g., an e-mail message) to a device of the
recipient user or by sending such device a notification of the
existence of such message information. In the latter case the
notification may include, for example, instructions relating to
access to the message information and/or an electronic link to a
network address at which the information is available.
[0102] Attention is now directed to FIG. 5, which is a flow chart
500 representative of a process for sending messages to one or more
electronic addresses associated with a phone number. In a stage 510
(FIG. 5A), a sending user sends an electronic message to a physical
address using a pre-defined convention of <PHONE
NUMBER>@BUMP.COM. The electronic message is received by a mail
server acting as a central repository for receiving the electronic
messages sent to the fully qualified domain name (stage 514). A
computer readable script hosted on a web server pulls all messages
directed to the fully qualified domain name mail inbox (stage 518).
A computer readable script determines if the address used in the
email message has a valid <PHONE NUMBER> convention (stage
522). A computer readable script splits the address into <PHONE
NUMBER> (stage 526). In a stage 530, a computer readable script
processes the message body and determines if the message has any
attachments (i.e. audio, picture, video). A computer readable
script then processes the attachments and uploads any attachments
to a data storage web server (stage 534).
[0103] In a stage 538 (FIG. 5B), a computer readable script
determines if the <PHONE NUMBER> has an existing profile in
the database hosted on a web server. If a profile does not exist in
the database matching the<PHONE NUMBER>, then a computer
readable script creates a <PHONE NUMBER> profile in the
database (stage 542). The electronic message is stored in the
database to the <PHONE NUMBER> profile (stage 546). In a
stage 550, a recipient user claims the message by electronic
certification of being the rightful holder of the <PHONE
NUMBER> identifier. A recipient user claims the message by
electronic certification of being the rightful holder of the
<PHONE NUMBER> identifier. A computer readable script can
match data of the rightful holders associated name and address to
other existing data stored on a web server that further verifies
that the recipient user is the actual rightful holder of the phone
number, such as verifying a code phoned to the phone number or sent
via an SMS message.
[0104] In a stage 554, a recipient user may associate an email
address, a phone number, an instant messaging address to be further
notified of new messages and based on user preferences of receiving
those notifications. Access to the message information is then
facilitated by, for example, either sending an electronic
communication containing the message information (e.g., an e-mail
message) to a device of the recipient user or by sending such
device a notification of the existence of such message information.
In the latter case the notification may include, for example,
instructions relating to access to the message information and/or
an electronic link to a network address at which the information is
available.
[0105] Attention is now directed to FIG. 6, which is a flow chart
representative of a process 600-1 for sending messages to one or
more electronic addresses associated with a biometric identifier.
At a stage 605-1, a sending user sends an electronic message to a
biometric identifier using a pre-defined convention of
UNIQUENUMERCALID@FACE.BUMP.COM. At stage 610-1, the electronic
message is received by a mail server acting as a central repository
for receiving the electronic messages sent to the fully qualified
domain name. Also at stage 610-1, a computer readable script hosted
on a web server pulls all messages directed to the fully qualified
domain name and stores them in a mail inbox. At stage 615-1, a
computer readable script determines if the address used in the
email message has a valid <UNIQUENUMERICALID> convention. At
stage 620-1, a computer readable script splits the physical address
into <UNIQUENUMERICALID>. At stage 625-1, a computer readable
script processes the message body in order to determine if the
message has any attachments (i.e. audio, picture, video). At
decision block 630-1, if it is determined that the message has
attachments, the process proceeds to stage 635-1 where a computer
readable script then processes the attachments and uploads any
attachments to a data storage web server. If there are no
attachments, the process proceeds to stage 640-1.
[0106] At stage 640-1, a computer readable script determines if the
<UNIQUENUMERICALID> has an existing profile in the database
hosted on a web server. At decision block 645-1, if it is
determined that a profile does not exist in the database matching
the <UNIQUENUMERICALID>, then a computer readable script
creates a <UNIQUENUMERICALID> profile in the database at
stage 650-1, otherwise the process proceeds to stage 655-1. At
stage 655-1, a computer readable script stores the electronic
message in the database to the <UNIQUENUMERICALID> profile.
At stage 660-1, a recipient user claims the message by electronic
certification of being the rightful holder of the
<UNIQUENUMERICALID> identifier. A computer readable script
can match data of the rightful holder's associated name and address
to other existing data stored on a web server that further verifies
that the recipient user is the actual rightful holder of the
physical address, such as verifying a pin number on a pre-mailed
physical letter to the physical address. At stage 665-1, a
recipient user may associate an email address, a phone number, an
instant messaging address to be further notified of new messages
and based on user preferences of receiving those notifications.
Access to the message information is then facilitated by, for
example, either sending an electronic communication containing the
message information (e.g., an e-mail message) to a device of the
recipient user or by sending such device a notification of the
existence of such message information. In the latter case the
notification may include, for example, instructions relating to
access to the message information and/or an electronic link to a
network address at which the information is available.
[0107] FIGS. 7-41 are flow charts representative of exemplary
processes 600-2 through 600-36 for sending messages to electronic
addresses associated with various different types of unique
identifiers. The processes 600-2 through 600-36 are basically the
same as the process 600-1 in FIG. 6, but using different
conventions and identifiers.
[0108] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary process 600-2 for sending messages
to one or more electronic addresses associated with a brand
name.
[0109] FIG. 8 shows an exemplary process 600-3 for sending messages
to one or more electronic addresses associated with a credit card
number.
[0110] FIG. 9 shows an exemplary process 600-4 for sending messages
to one or more electronic addresses associated with a Digital
Object Identifier (DOI).
[0111] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary process 600-5 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
drivers license (DL).
[0112] FIG. 11 shows an exemplary process 600-6 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
Electronic Product Code (EPC).
[0113] FIG. 12 shows an exemplary process 600-7 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
Electronic Serial Number (ESN).
[0114] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary process 600-8 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Global Location Number (GLN).
[0115] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary process 600-9 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Global Release Identifier (GRID).
[0116] FIG. 15 shows an exemplary process 600-10 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Global Trade Item Number (GTIN).
[0117] FIG. 16 shows an exemplary process 600-11 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinate. In other embodiments
the electronic addresses could be associated with a specified
latitude/longitude/elevation and/or a specified
latitude/longitude/elevation/time rather than with GPS
coordinates.
[0118] FIG. 17 shows an exemplary process 600-12 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.
[0119] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary process 600-13 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) number.
[0120] FIG. 19 shows an exemplary process 600-14 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
International Product Serial Number (PSN).
[0121] FIG. 20 shows an exemplary process 600-15 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
International Standard Book Number (ISBN).
[0122] FIG. 21 shows an exemplary process 600-16 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
International Standard Music Number (ISMN).
[0123] FIG. 22 shows an exemplary process 600-17 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
International Standard Musical Work Code (ISWC).
[0124] FIG. 23 shows an exemplary process 600-18 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with an
International Standard Recoding Code (ISRC).
[0125] FIG. 24 shows an exemplary process 600-19 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN).
[0126] FIG. 25 shows an exemplary process 600-20 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
License Plate.
[0127] FIG. 26 shows an exemplary process 600-21 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
specific location/establishment.
[0128] FIG. 27 shows an exemplary process 600-22 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Media Access Control (MAC) number.
[0129] FIG. 28 shows an exemplary process 600-23 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Mobile Equipment Identifier (MEI).
[0130] FIG. 29 shows an exemplary process 600-24 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
passport.
[0131] FIG. 30 shows an exemplary process 600-25 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
patent number.
[0132] FIG. 31 shows an exemplary process 600-26 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
physical address.
[0133] FIG. 32 shows an exemplary process 600-27 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Point Of Sale/Transaction (POS) identifier.
[0134] FIG. 33 shows an exemplary process 600-28 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
published patent application.
[0135] FIG. 34 shows an exemplary process 600-29 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Tag.
[0136] FIG. 35 shows an exemplary process 600-30 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
rewards card.
[0137] FIG. 36 shows an exemplary process 600-31 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Social Security Number (SSN).
[0138] FIG. 37 shows an exemplary process 600-32 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
telephone number.
[0139] FIG. 38 shows an exemplary process 600-33 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a Time
Stamp (TS).
[0140] FIG. 39 shows an exemplary process 600-34 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
tracking number.
[0141] FIG. 40 shows an exemplary process 600-35 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Trademark Number (TM).
[0142] FIG. 41 shows an exemplary process 600-36 for sending
messages to one or more electronic addresses associated with a
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
[0143] FIG. 42 shows an exemplary process 700 for sending messages
to one or more electronic addresses associated with a QR Code. At a
stage 705, a user scans an image of a QR code or captures the QR
code with a QR barcode reader on a mobile device for the purpose of
sending an electronic message to a receiving user. At stage 710, a
computer readable script compares the unique captured QR code
against a central repository (e.g., a database hosted on a web
server on a communication network. At a decision block 715, if it
is determined that the unique QR Code has a match and already has
an associated profile, the process continues to stage 730,
otherwise the process proceeds to stage 720. At stage 720, a
computer-readable script creates a unique identifier profile in a
database that is associated to the unique QR Code. At stage 725, a
unique email address convention, qrcodeUID@qrcode.bump.com, is
given the QR Code unique identifier <qrcodeUID> and is
associated to the unique QR Code via a computer readable
script.
[0144] At stage 730, a computer readable script forwards the
electronic message to the associated email address
qrcodeUID@qrcode.bump.com. At stage 735, a mail server acts as a
central repository and receives the electronic message sent to the
fully qualified domain name. At stage 740, a computer readable
script hosted on a web server stores all messages directed to the
fully qualified domain name in a mail inbox. At stage 745, a
computer readable script separates out the unique identifier
<qrcodeUID> from the email address convention, and processes
the message body in order to determine if the message has any
attachments. At stage 750, any identified attachments and the
electronic message are stored in a data storage web server in
association with the <qrcodeUID> profile. At stage 755, the
receiving user claims the message by electronic certification of
being the rightful holder of the QR Code and its associated
<qrcodeUID>. A computer readable script can, for purposes of
verification, match associated data contained in the QR Code to the
rightful holder's data. At stage 760, the receiving user may
associate an Email address, a phone number or an instant messenger
address to be further notified of new notification messages and,
based on user preferences, to receive those notification
messages.
[0145] FIGS. 43A-43B comprise a flow chart which illustrate another
exemplary process 800 for sending messages to a QR code.
[0146] While some specific teaching is included here on methods of
both authenticating recipients' identities and validating their
legitimate associations with their respective unique identifiers,
it is understood that use cases of the present invention may
include other authentication and validation techniques known to
those skilled in the arts of identity verification, biometrics,
information security, and fraud prevention. Moreover, it is
understood that such techniques to duly register, authenticate, or
validate the identities of correspondents may apply to both
recipients and senders.
[0147] In certain embodiments it may be effective to use
identifiers that do not necessarily uniquely identify a particular
item or device (e.g., a model number of a product) but which would
none the less be useful in determining message recipients (e.g.,
identifying a manufacturer of a product when reporting a product
defect). Additional purposes may include supply chain management
optimization, business intelligence collection, or other economic
analysis. Classes of recipients that may be validated for computer
products, for example, may include designated manufacturers,
distributors, retailers, regulators, support/repair organizations,
recyclers, buyers, brokers, sellers, and, of course, owners.
[0148] In other embodiments it may be desired to offer different
classes of correspondence for different classes of senders. For
example, a charity desiring to communicate with a physical street
address could use the address schema of
charitymail.streetaddress.city.state@domain and be offered a
particular rate in connection with such communication. Similarly, a
current vendor could be offered a different rate, a solicitation
offered yet another rate, and so on. This approach may also involve
authentication of sender identity, enforcement of contract terms
and/or the leving of a service fee.
[0149] The present disclosure also contemplates automated methods
of opting in and out of such linkages (such as upon purchase or
disposal of an object) including but not limited to machine to
machine communication. Automated discovery and mapping (and
removal) of unique identifiers to profile, such as at point of sale
or using a smart phone camera or audio application to capture
unique identifiers.
[0150] In addition, the teachings herein may be combined with all
available methods of preventing illegitimate parties from hacking
or compromising the integrity and privacy of the communication
described herein.
[0151] It should be apparent that the teachings herein may be
embodied in a wide variety of forms and that any specific
structure, function, or both being disclosed herein is merely
representative. Based on the teachings herein one skilled in the
art should appreciate that an aspect disclosed herein may be
implemented independently of any other aspects and that two or more
of these aspects may be combined in various ways. For example, an
apparatus may be implemented or a method may be practiced using any
number of the aspects set forth herein. In addition, such an
apparatus may be implemented or such a method may be practiced
using other structure, functionality, or structure and
functionality in addition to or other than one or more of the
aspects set forth herein. Furthermore, an aspect may comprise at
least one element of a claim.
[0152] In one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions, methods
and processes described may be implemented in hardware, software,
firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software,
the functions may be stored on or encoded as one or more
instructions or code on a computer-readable medium.
Computer-readable media includes computer storage media. Storage
media may be any available media that can be accessed by a
computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such
computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or
other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic
storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or
store desired program code in the form of instructions or data
structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Disk and disc,
as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical
disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and blu-ray disc
where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs
reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above
should also be included within the scope of computer-readable
media.
[0153] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of
steps or stages in the processes and methods disclosed are examples
of exemplary approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is
understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the
processes may be rearranged while remaining within the scope of the
present disclosure. The accompanying method claims present elements
of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be
limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.
[0154] Those of skill in the art would understand that information
and signals may be represented using any of a variety of different
technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions,
commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may
be referenced throughout the above description may be represented
by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or
particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination
thereof.
[0155] Those of skill would further appreciate that the various
illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may
be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or
combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability
of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks,
modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in
terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is
implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular
application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.
Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in
varying ways for each particular application, but such
implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a
departure from the scope of the disclosure.
[0156] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and
circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed
herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose
processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application
specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array
(FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or
transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination
thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A
general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the
alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor,
controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also
be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a
combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of
microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a
DSP core, or any other such configuration.
[0157] The steps or stages of a method, process or algorithm
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may
be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by
a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module may
reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory,
EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or
any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary
storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor
can read information from, and write information to, the storage
medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to
the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in
an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a user terminal In the alternative,
the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete
components in a user terminal
[0158] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects
shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with
the language of the claims, wherein reference to an element in the
singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless
specifically so stated, but rather "one or more." Unless
specifically stated otherwise, the term "some" refers to one or
more. A phrase referring to "at least one of" a list of items
refers to any combination of those items, including single members.
As an example, "at least one of: a, b, or c" is intended to cover:
a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; and a, b and c.
[0159] The previous description of the disclosed aspects is
provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the
present disclosure. Various modifications to these aspects will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects without
departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the
disclosure is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown
herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the
principles and novel features disclosed herein.
* * * * *
References