U.S. patent application number 13/715735 was filed with the patent office on 2013-07-11 for system and method for provisioning audiovisual works.
This patent application is currently assigned to BLOCKBUSTER L.L.C.. The applicant listed for this patent is Blockbuster L.L.C.. Invention is credited to Michael J. Doherty, Nigel A. Dufty, Alvin Eng, David M. Groves, Alistair Macrow, Malachi Simons, Nicholas F. Wilkins, Philip M. Williams, Dominic C. Wynn.
Application Number | 20130179496 13/715735 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35429072 |
Filed Date | 2013-07-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130179496 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wynn; Dominic C. ; et
al. |
July 11, 2013 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVISIONING AUDIOVISUAL WORKS
Abstract
A method for provisioning audiovisual works to a client includes
maintaining categorization information specifying, for each of
multiple audiovisual works, one or more of multiple categories. One
or more of the categories are associated with each of multiple
delivery slots in response to input from a client. For each of the
delivery slots, a first audiovisual work from one of the categories
associated with the respective delivery slot is provisioned for
delivery to a location associated with the client.
Inventors: |
Wynn; Dominic C.;
(Oxfordshire, GB) ; Williams; Philip M.;
(Berkshire, GB) ; Simons; Malachi; (Middlesex,
GB) ; Wilkins; Nicholas F.; (Middlesex, GB) ;
Macrow; Alistair; (Essex, GB) ; Dufty; Nigel A.;
(Berkshire, GB) ; Eng; Alvin; (London, GB)
; Doherty; Michael J.; (Hants, GB) ; Groves; David
M.; (West Sussex, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Blockbuster L.L.C.; |
Englewood |
CO |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
BLOCKBUSTER L.L.C.
Englewood
CO
|
Family ID: |
35429072 |
Appl. No.: |
13/715735 |
Filed: |
December 14, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10842147 |
May 10, 2004 |
8346673 |
|
|
13715735 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
709/203 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 67/42 20130101;
G06Q 30/0645 20130101; H04L 29/06047 20130101; G06Q 30/06
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
709/203 |
International
Class: |
H04L 29/06 20060101
H04L029/06 |
Claims
1. A method for provisioning audiovisual works to a client,
comprising: maintaining categorization information specifying, for
each of a plurality of audiovisual works, one or more of a
plurality of categories; associating one or more of the categories
with each of the plurality of delivery slots in response to input
from the client; and for each of the delivery slots, provisioning
an audiovisual work from one of the categories associated with the
respective delivery slot for delivery to a location associated with
the client.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] The application is a continuation application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/842,147, entitled SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR
PROVISIONING AUDIOVISUAL WORKS, filed on May 10, 2004, which is
incorporated by reference for any and all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to audiovisual
works, and, more particularly, to a system and method for
provisioning audiovisual works to clients.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Traditionally, the rental of audiovisual works such as
movies involves visiting a local retail establishment, such as a
video store. Recently, alternative arrangements, such as online
subscription services, have arisen.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In accordance with the present invention, techniques for
providing audiovisual works to clients are provided. According to
particular embodiments, these techniques enable the delivery of
audiovisual works according to categories created and/or selected
by clients and associated with delivery slots. For example,
audiovisual works may be organized into several categories, and a
delivery slot may be associated with one or more of the categories.
The return of an audiovisual work may trigger the delivery of a
subsequent audiovisual work, where both the returned audiovisual
work and the subsequent audiovisual work are in categories
associated with the same delivery slot. Alternatively or in
addition, these techniques may recommend and/or automatically
generate lists of audiovisual works for delivery to clients.
[0005] According to a particular embodiment, a method for
provisioning audiovisual works to a client includes maintaining
categorization information specifying, for each of multiple
audiovisual works, one or more of multiple categories. One or more
of the categories are associated with each of multiple delivery
slots in response to input from a client. For each of the delivery
slots, a first audiovisual work from one of the categories
associated with the respective delivery slot is provisioned for
delivery to a location associated with the client.
[0006] Embodiments of the invention provide various technical
advantages. For example, these techniques may eliminate or reduce
many difficulties associated with requiring clients to select
and/or reselect particular audiovisual works to receive. A list of
audiovisual works appropriate for a particular client may be
generated based on one or more factors such as preferences of the
client, inventory of available audiovisual works, evaluated
qualities and/or popularities of the audiovisual works, and/or
inventory history associated with the client. In some embodiments,
the list may be used continuously to provide audiovisual works to
the client after a list of expressly-selected audiovisual works
becomes short due to delivery of audiovisual works to the
client.
[0007] Other advantages include the ability to ensure that a client
maintains a particular inventory of audiovisual works. In some
embodiments, these techniques may ensure that clients maintain
diverse inventories of audiovisual works, such as movies, video
games, music, books, recorded books, and other appropriate
materials, to satisfy the desires of multiple individuals and/or
the changing moods of one individual. For example, these techniques
may ensure that the preferences of each member of a household are
met. If one member prefers action/adventure films, another prefers
comedies, and a third prefers Westerns, these techniques may ensure
that at least one of each type of film is available in the home at
any time. Thus, these techniques may resolve conflicts created by
disparate preferences between members of one household.
[0008] Other technical advantages of the present invention will be
readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following
figures, descriptions, and claims. Moreover, while specific
advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may
include all, some, or none of the enumerated advantages.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] For a more complete understanding of the present invention
and its advantages, reference is made to the following description,
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a system for providing audiovisual works
in accordance with the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating functional components
of a host for the system;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing
audiovisual works to a client;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method for generating a
list of recommended audiovisual works for presentation to a
client;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing
audiovisual works to a client using an automatically generated list
of audiovisual works;
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates a graphical user interface for generating
categorization rules for use in providing audiovisual works to a
client;
[0016] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B illustrate graphical user interfaces for
selecting categories to organize a list of audiovisual works;
[0017] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate graphical user interfaces for
filtering a list of audiovisual works into categories;
[0018] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B illustrate graphical user interfaces for
providing audiovisual works to a client using an automatically
generated list of audiovisual works; and
[0019] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B illustrate a graphical user interfaces
for generating a list of recommended audiovisual works for
presentation to a client.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a system, indicated generally at 10, that
includes a host 12, a communications network 14, multiple clients
16, and multiple fulfillment centers 18. Clients 16 interact with
host 12 through network 14 to request audiovisual works, which may
be distributed by fulfillment centers 18. According to particular
embodiments, host 12 in conjunction with fulfillment centers 18
delivers audiovisual works to clients 16 according to
characteristics of audiovisual works. Audiovisual works and/or
categories of audiovisual works may be created and/or selected by
clients 16. Alternatively or in addition, host 12 may suggest or
automatically select audiovisual works and/or categories of
audiovisual works based on various factors.
[0021] Host 12 represents an entity, such as a person, a group of
persons, and/or any appropriate hardware and controlling logic,
capable of delivering and/or arranging delivery of audiovisual
works to clients 16. In some embodiments, host 12 may include a Web
server capable of hosting a computerized Web page that transmits
and receives information through network 14. In alternative
embodiments, host 12 may include a traditional telephone, personal
computer, or any other appropriate device able to communicate with
clients 16 and fulfillment centers 18 through network 14. For
example, host 12 may receive requests for delivery of audiovisual
works from clients 16 through network 14. Host 12 may generate
various lists of audiovisual works and/or organize lists of
audiovisual works by categories; determine which audiovisual works
to deliver to clients 16 according to various algorithms; and
communicate with fulfillment centers 18 to organize delivery of
audiovisual works to clients 16.
[0022] Network 14 represents any suitable collection of hardware,
software, and controlling logic to interconnect elements coupled to
network 14. Thus, network 14 provides an infrastructure to support
communications within system 10. In a particular embodiment,
network 14 may include one or multiple networks, such as a
telecommunications network, a satellite network, a cable network, a
local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet,
and/or any other appropriate networks.
[0023] Clients 16 each represent an entity, such as a person, a
group of persons, and/or any appropriate hardware and controlling
logic, capable of requesting and/or receiving audiovisual works
from host 12. In some embodiments, clients 16 may include Web
browsers capable of accessing a computerized Web page to transmit
and receive information through network 14. In alternative
embodiments, clients 16 may include traditional telephones,
personal computers, or any other appropriate device able to
communicate with host 12 through network 14. For example, clients
16 may transmit requests for delivery of audiovisual works to host
12 through network 14.
[0024] Fulfillment centers 18 each represent an entity, such as a
person, a group of persons, and/or any appropriate hardware and
controlling logic, capable of fulfilling requests or invoices for
audiovisual works. In some embodiments, fulfillment centers 18 may
include technology capable of transmitting and receiving
information through network 14, for example traditional telephones,
personal computers, or any other appropriate devices. Furthermore,
fulfillment centers 18 may include warehouses, central
distributions facilities, and/or traditional brick-and-mortar
audiovisual retail shops that may store audiovisual works for
delivery to clients 16.
[0025] In operation, host 12 may interact with clients 16 and/or
fulfillment centers 18 through network 14 to arrange for delivery
of audiovisual works to clients 16. As used herein, an audiovisual
work represents any material operable to communicate audio and/or
visual information. In some embodiments, audiovisual works may
include movies, video games, music, books, recorded books, and/or
any other specific type or types of material operable to
communicate audio and/or visual information. Thus, for example,
host 12 may include a Web site and/or telephone operators that
accept requests for deliveries of movies to clients 16.
[0026] Host 12 may generate a client list that identifies
audiovisual works client 16 desires to be delivered to client 16.
Generating client lists may take many forms. Clients 16 may select
audiovisual works to include on and/or exclude from client lists.
For example, clients 16 may manually select audiovisual works from
a library of audiovisual works stored by host 12. Similarly, host
12 may recommend audiovisual works to particular clients 16
according to various factors such as availability and popularity of
particular audiovisual works and the inventory history associated
with the particular client 16. Clients 16 may then select from the
recommended works. Alternatively or in addition, host 12 may
automatically generate lists of audiovisual works to deliver to
clients 16.
[0027] To assist clients 16 in selecting audiovisual works to add
to client lists, host 12 may generate lists of suggested or
recommended audiovisual works based on information obtained from
clients 16. For example, host 12 may request clients 16 to rate
multiple genres of audiovisual works. In one embodiment, clients 16
may rate each genre by selecting from one to five stars to indicate
personal preferences of each genre. Host 12 may use the provided
information to generate individualized recommended lists of
audiovisual works that reflect the preferences expressed by clients
16.
[0028] Host 12 may use various algorithms and may consider various
factors when generating the recommended list. Besides preferences
of clients 16, for example, host 12 may use availability
information to limit recommendations to available audiovisual
works. Availability information may be based on a requirement that
a particular number of audiovisual works be in stock in fulfillment
centers 18 before the audiovisual work will be included in a
recommended list. Furthermore, each iteration of the algorithm may
return different audiovisual works to ensure that inventories of
audiovisual works are not depleted. Host 12 may also ensure that a
particular ratio of well-known audiovisual works versus
lesser-known audiovisual works are included in the recommended list
using a configurable ratio input into the algorithm. In addition,
host 12 may filter the recommended list to prevent presentation of
audiovisual works client 16 has already received, or works that
client 16 received during some immediately preceding period of
time, such as within the past six months. The filtering may be
based on account information stored by host 12 concerning the
particular client 16 requesting the recommended list, and/or may be
based on feedback provided by the particular client 16 when
presented with the individualized recommended list. Once the
recommended list is generated, clients 16 may select audiovisual
works from the recommended lists to add audiovisual works to client
lists.
[0029] Alternatively or in addition, host 12 may automatically
generate lists of audiovisual works to use when clients 16 activate
an automatic selection feature. By selecting the automatic
selection feature, client 16 indicates willingness to automatically
receive audiovisual works from a list generated by host 12. The
automatically generated list may include audiovisual works
identified by host 12 that client 16 may find desirable based on
ratings of genres. Similar to the feature described above with
regard to recommending audiovisual works for selection by clients
16, host 12 may request clients 16 to rate multiple genres of
audiovisual works. In one embodiment, clients 16 may rate each
genre by selecting from one to five stars to indicate personal
preferences of each genre. Host 12 may use the provided information
to automatically generate and use a list of audiovisual works that
reflects the preferences expressed by clients 16.
[0030] Host 12 may use various algorithms and may consider various
factors when automatically generating a list of audiovisual works
to deliver to clients 16. For example, in one embodiment, all
audiovisual works may be divided into multiple divisions reflecting
factors such as availability and popularity. Thus, for example,
audiovisual works may be divided into two divisions, a first
division and a second division. Assignment of audiovisual works to
divisions may be stored in an audiovisual library. Furthermore, to
reduce server load, assignment may be performed periodically, such
as every day. Based on the preferences indicated by client 16,
appropriate percentages for each division and for each genre may be
calculated. Then, audiovisual titles from each division and genre
may be identified using the percentages. To reduce repetitious
selection of particular audiovisual works, host 12 may mix results
and/or serially return audiovisual works from each division.
Furthermore, host 12 may utilize a filter to include or exclude
specific audiovisual works and/or types of audiovisual works based
on predefined indications received from client 16. Thus, host 12
may use different factors and algorithms to automatically generate
lists of audiovisual works to deliver to clients 16 versus the
factors and algorithms used to generate recommended lists of
audiovisual works for clients 16 to select. However, note that the
factors and algorithms may instead be similar or the same.
[0031] To further assist host 12 in determining which audiovisual
works to deliver to clients 16, host 12 and/or clients 16 may
organize audiovisual works into categories. Each category may group
a set of audiovisual works using a common characteristic.
Furthermore, in some embodiments filters may be used to include or
exclude audiovisual works from categories. For example, for movies,
appropriate categories may include particular genres, actors,
producers, directors, release dates, or ratings. Thus, in a
particular embodiment, a category may include comedies. For other
audiovisual works, similar or different categories may be used as
appropriate. Furthermore, as mentioned, host 12 may allow clients
16 to generate categories of audiovisual works. As such, each
category might include audiovisual works selected by client 16 that
may or may not be related in any obvious way other than the fact
that client 16 assigned the audiovisual works to the same category.
Thus, for example, in a particular embodiment client 16 may
generate three categories of audiovisual works, where each category
is associated with a family member in a household. Each household
member may select audiovisual works and include his or her
audiovisual works in his or her respective category. Thus, host 12
may allow categorization of client lists.
[0032] To make use of the categories created or selected, client 12
may assign one or more categories to a delivery slot maintained by
host 12. In this way, client 12 may create, and host 12 may
maintain, categorization rules for use when determining an
audiovisual work to deliver to client 16. Categorization rules
represent restrictions placed on host 12 that, at appropriate
times, cause host 12 to attempt to deliver audiovisual works to
client 16 that are from one or more selected categories. Delivery
slots identify one or more categories of audiovisual works from
which an audiovisual work may be selected and delivered to clients
16. Thus, before host 12 selects an audiovisual work from a client
list associated with a client 12 that has the categorization
feature activated, host 12 may be required to determine which
categories from which an audiovisual work may be selected for
delivery to client 16. In this way, client 16 may maintain a
predefined inventory of audiovisual works. Note that while
explained with regard to one delivery slot, categorization rules
may be used with multiple delivery slots.
[0033] As yet another way to assist host 12 in determining which
audiovisual works to deliver to clients 16, clients 16 and/or host
12 may rank audiovisual works in a particular order. For example,
audiovisual works in client lists may be placed in a particular
order selected by clients 16. Alternatively or in addition, clients
16 may organize and order audiovisual works within each selected
category within a client list. By ordering the audiovisual works,
host 12 may be instructed as to which audiovisual works should, if
possible or appropriate, be delivered to a particular client
16.
[0034] Audiovisual works may be delivered to client 16 at various
times. For example, host 12 may schedule delivery of audiovisual
works upon subscription to a service provided by host 12. Delivery
may also occur in response to returns of audiovisual works.
Delivery of audiovisual works may be conducted by host 12 alone or
in combination with fulfillment centers 18. For example, DVDs,
videos, CDs, video games, or other appropriate physical embodiments
of audiovisual works may be sent to client 16 by host 12 and/or
fulfillment centers 18. For example, the audiovisual works may be
mailed. In other embodiments, electronic embodiments of audiovisual
works may be communicated, for example, through network 14. Thus,
according to particular embodiments, a return of an audiovisual
work may include the physical return of a physical copy of the
audiovisual work or an electronic or other communication or
indication that client 16 has completed use of the audiovisual
work.
[0035] Host 12 may consult with a client list associated with
client 16 to determine which audiovisual work or works to provision
for delivery to client 16. When client 16 participates in a
subscription plan, a particular number of audiovisual works may be
requested by client 16 at any one time. Thus, host 12 may determine
an available number of audiovisual works for client 16 to receive
and select that number of audiovisual works from the client list
associated with client 16. The selection of audiovisual works to
deliver may involve an algorithm involving the order and
availability of audiovisual works included in the client list. When
client 16 chooses to associate categories with delivery slots,
audiovisual works from categories associated with each delivery
slot may be delivered to client 16.
[0036] Upon return of a delivered audiovisual work, host 12 may
determine whether to provide another audiovisual work to client 16.
According to particular embodiments, host 12 may identify
audiovisual works for delivery to client 16 based upon
characteristics of audiovisual works returned by client 16. When
client 16 participates in a subscription plan, host 12 may identify
an audiovisual work from the client list associated with client 16
to provide to client 16. As discussed above, host 12 may consider
various factors when making this determination. For example, host
12 may identify a characteristic of the returned audiovisual work.
Using the characteristic, host 12 may identify a delivery slot
associated with the returned movie. Then, host 12 may select and
deliver an audiovisual work from a category associated with the
same delivery slot. In this way, client 16 may continuously
maintain an inventory of audiovisual works from various categories
associated with delivery slots.
[0037] Other factors host 12 may consider in determining which
audiovisual work to delivery after receiving a returned audiovisual
work include availability of particular audiovisual works, an order
of audiovisual works selected by client 16, qualities of movies as
identified, for example, by critics, or any other appropriate
techniques. Host 12 may also filter a list of audiovisual works for
audiovisual works previously delivered, rented, and/or otherwise
obtained by client 16. However, a filter for previously obtained
items may include a time limit so that popular audiovisual works
may be delivered multiple times.
[0038] For purposes of explanation, consider a particular client 16
that desires to maintain a particular inventory of movies. For
example, assume client 16 desires to maintain an inventory of three
movies, where one is a comedy, one is a movie in which the actor
Tom Cruise acted, and one is either a horror movie or a war movie.
Host 12 may associate categories with delivery slots. A first
delivery slot may be associated with the category of the genre
comedy. A second delivery slot may be associated with the category
of movies in which Tom Cruise acts. A third delivery slot may be
associated with the categories of the genres horror and war. When a
movie is returned to host 12, host 12 may, for example, determine
that the movie is a comedy. Since the movie is a comedy, host 12
may determine that the first delivery slot is now open. Thus, host
12 may select an audiovisual work from the category of comedy,
which is associated with the first delivery slot, to deliver to
client 16. In this way, client 16 may maintain a predefined
inventory of movies at practically all times. Note that when
returned movies may have characteristics associated with multiple
delivery slots, host 12 may analyze various other information such
as inventory history of client 16 to attempt to determine which
delivery slot should be used. Furthermore, note that the preceding
example is used for illustrative purposes only, and the techniques
described herein may be used in various ways to provide various
types of audiovisual works to clients 16.
[0039] Thus, system 10 enables the selection and delivery of
audiovisual works using a client list that may be generated in
various ways. Furthermore, system 10 provides for maintaining an
inventory of audiovisual works associated with predefined
categories.
[0040] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating functional components
of a particular embodiment of host 12. In general, host 12
communicates with clients 16 and fulfillment centers 18 to identify
and arrange delivery of audiovisual works to clients 16. More
specifically, host 12 may be used to delivery audiovisual works to
clients 16 based on characteristics of returned audiovisual works,
categories of audiovisual works, and delivery slots. In the
embodiment illustrated, host 12 includes a processor 44, an
interface 46, and a memory 48.
[0041] Processor 44 controls the operation and administration of
elements within host 12. For example, processor 44 operates to
process information and/or commands received from interface 46 and
memory 48. Processor 44 includes any hardware and/or logic elements
operable to control and process information. For example, processor
44 may be a microcontroller, processor, programmable logic device
and/or any other suitable processing device. As discussed above, in
some embodiments host 12 may operate to host a Web page on the
Internet.
[0042] Interface 46 communicates information to and receives
information from network 14. For example, interface 46 may
communicate through network 14 to clients 16 and/or fulfillment
centers 18. When communicating with clients 16, interface 46 may
transmit and receive information regarding audiovisual works, such
as instructions to include audiovisual works in particular client
lists and/or categories. When communicating with fulfillment
centers 18, interface 46 may transmit or receive information
related to delivery of audiovisual works. For example, fulfillment
centers 18 may communicate information related to availability of
particular audiovisual works. Thus, interface 46 represents any
suitable hardware or controlling logic used to communicate
information to or from elements linked to host 12.
[0043] Memory 48 stores, either permanently or temporarily, data
and other information, such as information for processing by
processor 44 and transmission by interface 46. Memory 48 represents
any one or a combination of volatile or nonvolatile local or remote
devices suitable for storing information. For example, memory 48
may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM),
magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, or any other
suitable information storage device or combination of these
devices. Memory 48 may store information in one or more modules.
For example, in the embodiment illustrated, memory 48 maintains
code 50, audiovisual library 52, account information 54, and
inventory information 56. However, while memory 48 as illustrated
includes particular data elements, it should be understood that
memory 48 may maintain any suitable information for use in
operation of host 12.
[0044] Code 50 includes software, executable files, Web pages,
and/or appropriate logic modules capable when executed to control
the operation of host 12. For example, code 50 may include Web
pages capable of receiving requests from clients 16 for host 12 to
deliver audiovisual works. In addition, code 50 may include
algorithms capable of determining audiovisual works to delivery to
clients 16. Code 50 may also include executable files capable of
communicating delivery requests with fulfillment centers 18.
[0045] Audiovisual library 52 includes information related to
audiovisual works. For example, audiovisual library 52 may include
titles and summaries of audiovisual works. In addition, audiovisual
library 52 may include other information related to audiovisual
works, such as actors, producers, directors, release dates, and
other appropriate information. Audiovisual library 52 may be
organized in various manners, including groupings of audiovisual
works by genre and/or other categories.
[0046] Account information 54 includes information related to
particular clients 16. For example, account information 54 may
include client lists indicating audiovisual works selected by
clients 16. Any particular client list may be organized or divided
into categories, such as by genre of audiovisual works or by
individual people associated with particular audiovisual works.
Account information may also include information related to
delivery slots. Each client 16 may be associated with one or more
delivery slots. Delivery slots identify one or more categories of
audiovisual works from which an audiovisual work may be selected
and delivered to clients 16. In addition, account information 54
may include information related to a subscription plan, such as a
total number of delivery slots associated with client 16. Account
information 54 may also include payment information and other
appropriate information related to clients 16. Furthermore, account
information 54 may include inventory histories of clients 16. Each
inventory history identifies audiovisual works already obtained by
a particular client 16.
[0047] Inventory information 56 includes information related to
availability of audiovisual works. For example, inventory
information 56 may associate titles with available quantities of
audiovisual works held by one or more fulfillment centers 18.
Inventory information 56 may be dynamically determined, such as in
real time. Furthermore, inventory information 56 may be local or
remote information. For example, host 12 may be operable to
communicate with remote fulfillment centers 18 through network 14
to obtain inventory information 56. Thus, inventory information 56
may be based upon actual inventories. Alternatively or in addition,
inventory information 56 may be based upon projections and
forecasts of future inventories.
[0048] In operation, processor 44 executes instructions found in
code 50 to support identification and provision of audiovisual
works. For example, processor 44 may execute software stored in
code 50 to host a Web site for use by clients 16. Interface 46 may
transmit and receive information communicated between host 12 and
network 14. Thus, clients 16 may interact with a Web site hosted in
memory 48 to access audiovisual library 52 to select audiovisual
works for inclusion in client lists stored in account information
54. Alternatively or in addition, processor 44 may execute
instructions stored in code 50 to generate recommended lists
identifying recommended audiovisual works for inclusion in client
lists. Clients 16 may select audiovisual works identified in the
recommended lists for inclusion in client lists. Furthermore,
processor 44 may execute instructions stored in code 50 to identify
audiovisual works for automatic inclusion in client lists.
[0049] Processor 44 may execute instructions in code 50 to identify
audiovisual works listed in client lists stored in memory 48 for
delivery to clients 16. As discussed above, various algorithms and
factors may be utilized. For example, when audiovisual works are
returned to fulfillment centers 18, processor 44 may be notified
using messages communicated to interface 46. When a particular
client 16 utilizes categories, processor 44 may identify a
characteristic of the returned audiovisual work, associate the
returned audiovisual work with a delivery slot, identify one or
more categories associated with the identified delivery slot, and
select another audiovisual work from one of the identified
categories to be delivered to client 16. Processor 44 may send a
communication through interface 46 to fulfillment centers 18 to
send the particular audiovisual work to client 16.
[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates a method 60 for providing audiovisual
works to clients 16. A client list is generated at step 62 that
identifies a number of audiovisual works. The client list may be
generated in multiple ways. For example, client 16 may browse
audiovisual library 52 and make selections from listed audiovisual
works. Alternatively or in addition, host 12 may generate a
recommended list of audiovisual works and client 16 may make
selections from the recommended list. Still another way of
generating the client list may include automatically generating a
list of audiovisual works using various factors such as preferences
for and availability and popularity of audiovisual works.
[0051] Client 16 is allowed to order the audiovisual works in the
client list at step 64. For example, client 16 may desire to obtain
certain audiovisual works more than other audiovisual works, and
the client list may be ordered to reflect this. Furthermore, client
16 may desire to obtain certain audiovisual works in a particular
order. For example, in the case of movies, client 16 may desire
only to watch a sequel after watching the original movie.
Similarly, in the case of a television series, client 16 may desire
only to watch a particular show or season of shows after watching a
previously released show or series.
[0052] A determination is made whether to use categorization rules
at step 66. For example, client 16 may indicate to host 12 whether
to use categorization rules. Categorization rules represent
restrictions placed on host 12 that cause host 12 to attempt to
deliver audiovisual works to client 16 that are from one or more
categories. In some embodiments, client 16 selects the categories
and associates categories with delivery slots. Thus, categorization
rules attempt to maintain a particular inventory of audiovisual
works at client 16 by controlling what audiovisual works are
delivered by host 12.
[0053] If categorization rules are not used, a first available
audiovisual work is provided to client 16 from the client list at
step 68. For example, host 12 may compare audiovisual works
included in the client list in the order specified by client 16
with inventories of fulfillment centers 18. A first audiovisual
work found to be available may be provided to client 16. As
discussed above, delivery of the audiovisual work may take many
forms. For example, the audiovisual work may be mailed, couriered,
or electronically communicated to client 16. At step 70 host 12
determines whether an audiovisual work has been returned. Once an
audiovisual work has been returned, a next available audiovisual
work from the client list is identified and provided to client 16
at step 72.
[0054] Now returning to step 66, if a determination is made to use
categorization rules, host 12 organizes the audiovisual works
identified in the client list into categories at step 74. As
described above, the categories may be created and maintained by
host 12 and/or created and maintained by client 16. For example,
client 16 may choose predetermined categories presented by host 12.
For movies, example categories may include horror, comedy,
action/adventure, family, or any other appropriate genres.
Alternatively or in addition, categories for movies may include
names of actors, directors, producers, release dates, or any other
appropriate category. Furthermore, categories may include movies
selected by different people.
[0055] At step 76, host 12 associates a delivery slot with one or
more categories of audiovisual works. As discussed above, delivery
slots identify one or more categories of audiovisual works from
which an audiovisual work may be selected and delivered to clients
16. Thus, according to particular embodiments, client 16
communicates to host 12 which categories client 16 wishes to
associate with a particular delivery slot. Note that multiple
delivery slots may be associated with categories. For example, if
client 16 wishes to maintain an inventory of three audiovisual
works, three delivery slots may be configured.
[0056] Host 12 and/or fulfillment centers 18 provide audiovisual
works to client 16 from the categories associated with the delivery
slots at step 78. For example, host 12 or fulfillment centers 18
may mail audiovisual works to client 16. Audiovisual works may be
selected from categories associated with delivery slots using
various factors, such as popularity, availability, inventory
history associated with client 16, and/or any other appropriate
factors. Furthermore, the number of audiovisual works provided to
client 16 may be limited to an overall number of audiovisual works
and/or a number of audiovisual works per delivery slot, such as
one.
[0057] At step 80, host 12 determines whether audiovisual works
have been returned. When an audiovisual work has been returned,
host 12 may identify a characteristic of the returned audiovisual
work at step 82. For example, host 12 may determine that a returned
video game includes a particular rating or a music CD is of a
particular genre. Furthermore, host 12 may identify a particular
client 16 that returned the audiovisual work. At step 84, host 12
identifies a delivery slot based on the determined characteristic
or characteristics. For example, host 12 may identify that the
returned video game having the particular rating is associated with
a particular delivery slot, since the delivery slot is associated
with video games of the same ratings classification. Similarly,
host 12 may identify a particular delivery slot associated with the
returned music CD based on the genre of the returned music CD.
[0058] Host 12 may provide a next available audiovisual work from
the category or categories associated with the identified delivery
slot at step 86. For example, if a horror movie is returned, a next
available horror movie on the client list may be provided to client
16 if horror is a category associated with the identified delivery
slot. Similarly, if the categories correspond to individuals in a
household and an audiovisual work associated with one person is
returned, a next available audiovisual work associated with that
person may be provided to the household.
[0059] Thus, method 60 illustrates one example of providing
audiovisual works to clients 16. By using categorization rules,
client 16 may maintain a certain number of audiovisual works
associated with particular categories at practically any given
time.
[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates a method 90 for generating the client
list. The particular method illustrated is described below with
respect to the operation of host 12. However, the present method
may be performed by one or more other elements from system 10 alone
or in combination with host 12. For example, when appropriate,
clients 16 and/or fulfillment centers 18 may perform the described
operation.
[0061] Host 12 determines at step 92 whether to use an assisted
selection function. When the assisted selected function is not
used, host 12 allows client 16 to browse audiovisual library 52 at
step 94. Host 12 receives selections of audiovisual works from
client 16 at step 96. Using the selections, host 12 generates the
client list at step 110.
[0062] Returning to step 92, if host 12 determines to use the
assisted selection function, host 12 determines client preferences
at step 98. In some embodiments, client 16 may communicate
preferences by rating genres of audiovisual works. Host 12
determines the inventory history of client 16 at step 100. The
inventory history may indicate dates particular audiovisual works
were last obtained by client 16. Host 12 determines the
availability of audiovisual works at step 102. For example, host 12
may identify inventories of fulfillment centers 18. Thus,
determining availability may include communicating with fulfillment
centers 18 and/or analyzing inventory information 56 to determine
specific audiovisual works available to be provided to client 16.
Host 12 determines popularity of audiovisual works at step 104. For
example, ratings of audiovisual works by critics and/or popularity
of audiovisual works among renters, subscribers, and/or other
individuals may be used to identify highly sought audiovisual
works. Host 12 generates a recommended list of audiovisual works
using the preferences, inventory history, availability, and
popularity of audiovisual works at step 106. Various algorithms
stored in code 50 may be used. Furthermore, host 12 may display the
recommended list to client 16.
[0063] At step 108, host 12 receives a selection of audiovisual
works from the recommended list. Client 16 may pick and choose
audiovisual works from the recommended list or accept the
recommended list in whole. Host 12 generates the client list using
the received selections at step 110.
[0064] Thus, method 90 illustrates one manner of generating the
client list. The client list may be used by host 12 to identify and
select audiovisual works to deliver to clients at any time, such as
upon receiving a returned audiovisual work.
[0065] FIG. 5 illustrates a method 120 for automatically selecting
an audiovisual work to deliver to client 16. Again, the particular
method illustrated is described below with respect to the operation
of host 12. However, the present method may be performed by one or
more other elements from system 10 alone or in combination with
host 12. For example, when appropriate, clients 16 and/or
fulfillment centers 18 may perform the described operation.
[0066] Host 12 and/or fulfillment centers 18 receive a returned
audiovisual work at step 122. Host 12 determines whether an
available audiovisual work is identified in the client list at step
124. When the client list does identify an available audiovisual
work, host 12 arranges for delivery of a next available audiovisual
work in the client list at step 126.
[0067] On the other hand, if the client list does not identify any
available audiovisual works, host 12 determines client preferences
at step 128. As discussed above, in some embodiments, client 16 may
communicate preferences by rating genres of audiovisual works. Host
12 determines the inventory history of client 16 at step 130.
Again, as discussed above, the inventory history may indicate dates
particular audiovisual works were last obtained by client 16. Host
12 determines the availability of audiovisual works at step 132.
For example, inventories of fulfillment centers 18 may be
identified. Thus, determining availability may include host 12
communicating with fulfillment centers 18 and/or analyzing
inventory information 56 to determine specific audiovisual works
available to be provided to client 16. Host 12 determines the
popularity of the audiovisual works at step 134. For example, as
discussed above, ratings of audiovisual works by critics and/or
popularity of audiovisual works among renters, subscribers, and/or
other individuals may be used by host 12 to identify highly sought
audiovisual works. Host 12 generates an automatic selection list of
audiovisual works using the preferences, inventory history,
availability, and popularity of audiovisual works at step 136.
Various algorithms stored in code 50 may be used to fulfill this
step.
[0068] Host 12 and/or fulfillment centers 18 provide an audiovisual
work selected from the automatic selection list at step 138.
Furthermore, host 12 may notify client 16 that the client list is
empty at step 140. The notification may request that client 16
select audiovisual works to include in the client list if client 16
desires to avoid host 12 automatically selecting audiovisual works.
The notification may further include suggestions, promotions, and
other appropriate information for use by client 16. According to
particular embodiments, the notification may be in the form of an
electronic message sent by host 12 through network 14.
[0069] Thus, method 120 illustrates one manner of automatically
selecting an audiovisual work from the client list or an automatic
selection list to deliver to client 16. Method 120 may enable
client 16 to obtain audiovisual works without having to
continuously replenish the client list.
[0070] The preceding flowcharts illustrate particular methods used
to identify and provide audiovisual works. However, these
flowcharts illustrate only exemplary methods of operation, and
system 10 contemplates individuals and/or devices using any
suitable techniques, elements, and applications for performing
these functions. Thus, many of the steps in the flowcharts may take
place simultaneously and/or in different orders than as shown. In
addition, methods may include additional steps or fewer steps, so
long as the methods remain appropriate. Moreover, one or more
devices of system 10 may work independently and/or in conjunction
with other elements of system 10 to identify and provide
audiovisual works to clients.
[0071] FIG. 6 illustrates a graphical user interface (GUI) 160 that
graphically depicts a categorization feature. GUI 160 includes
various features, such as links, buttons, and checkboxes, that
together enable client 16 to view and input settings for
categorization rules. As discussed above, categorization rules
control what audiovisual works host 12 selects to deliver to
clients 16. For example, categorization rules associate delivery
slots with one or more categories of audiovisual works. When host
12 attempts to select and deliver an audiovisual work, for example,
when an audiovisual work has been returned by client 16, host 12
may be required to comply with activated categorization rules.
Thus, these rules may influence what audiovisual work host 12 may
deliver to client 16.
[0072] GUI 160 includes a categorization rule section 162 that
allows client 16 to select one or more predetermined categories
using drop-down boxes 164. Drop-down boxes 164 therefore may be
used to associate categories with delivery slots. For example, as
illustrated, client 16 may select three genres of movies using
drop-down boxes 164, such as comedy, action/adventure, and
thriller. In the embodiment illustrated, therefore, three delivery
slots have been created, where the first delivery slot is
associated with the category of comedy, the second delivery slot is
associated with the category of action/adventure, and the third
delivery slot is associated with the category of thrillers. While
GUI 160 shows only one genre being associated with each delivery
slot, note that in some embodiments multiple categories may be
associated with a delivery slot. Furthermore, in some embodiments,
drop-down boxes 164 may allow client 16 to associate a delivery
slot with any category.
[0073] Client 16 may check checkbox 166 to activate or deactivate
use of the categorization rules. After client 16 adjusts drop-down
boxes 164 and/or switch 166, client 16 may operate one of update
buttons 168 to update account information 54 stored by host 12. In
this way, account information 54 related to client 16 may be
updated to reflect the selections made by client 16. By checking
checkbox 166 and operating update button 168, client 16 may
indicate a desire to receive movies from the categories indicated
in drop-down boxes 164. Thereafter, when client 16 returns a movie
to host 12 or fulfillment centers 18, host 12 may identify delivery
slot associated with the returned movie, and therefore one or more
categories associated with the identified delivery slot.
Thereafter, host 12 may deliver another movie from one of the
identified categories.
[0074] To change screens, client 16 may select "New/Hit Movies"
link 170, "Auto Choose" link 172, or "Your Top 10s" link 174. Each
of these links may direct client 16 to a subsequent Web page. For
example, New/Hit Movies link 170 may direct client 16 to a Web page
providing access to audiovisual library 52. Auto Choose link 172
may direct client 16 to a Web page associated with automatic
selection of audiovisual works to include in a client list. Your
Top 10s list 174 may direct client 16 to a Web page presenting a
recommended list of audiovisual works from audiovisual library
52.
[0075] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B illustrate a GUI 180 that graphically
depicts a client list. GUI 180 includes various features, such as
links, buttons, and checkboxes, that together enable client 16 to
select and order audiovisual works into a custom client list.
[0076] GUI 180 includes multiple sections. "Movie Mix" section 182
summarizes settings for categorization rules. Movie Mix section 182
indicates three delivery slots, where each delivery slot is
associated with one category. Furthermore, Movie Mix section 182
shows how many movies in the client list are included in each
category, and a first listed audiovisual work within each category.
The first listed audiovisual work will be the next audiovisual work
from the respective category delivered to client 16 if client 16
activates the categorization feature in GUI 160 and that
audiovisual work is available. Client 16 may filter the client list
by category by selecting filtering links 183. Note that in this
embodiment, Movie Mix section 182 indicates three delivery slots
with each delivery slot associated with one category, where the
categories correspond to movie genres. However, note that any
number and type of categories may be associated with a delivery
slot. "My Movies" section 184 indicates audiovisual works currently
held by client 16. While none are listed in the illustrated
embodiment, titles of audiovisual works may be listed when client
16 maintains a current inventory.
[0077] Below Movie Mix section 182 and My Movies section 184, the
client list is represented by multiple audiovisual work sections
186. Each section 186 includes the order of a particular
audiovisual work, a name and brief description of the audiovisual
work, and various input/output devices. For example, ordering
indicator 188a indicates the order of the particular audiovisual
work in the client list. Up and down arrows 188b allow client 16 to
reorder the audiovisual work in the client list. "First-to-Last"
checkbox 190 allows client 16 to require that particular
audiovisual works are delivered to client 16 in a fixed order. For
example, particular movies, especially sequels, usually are watched
in a particular order. Thus, First-to-Last checkbox 190 may be used
to instruct host 12 to deliver audiovisual works such as sequels in
a particular order, for example, regardless of availability. After
selecting or deselecting First-to-Last checkboxes 190, to activate
this feature client 16 may select "Update First-to-Last" button
192. In addition, client 16 may check "Select" checkbox 194 and
"Remove Selected Movies" button 196 to remove selected audiovisual
works from the client list.
[0078] After client 16 finalizes appropriate settings using any of
these checkboxes, buttons, arrows, and other devices, client 16 may
press "Activate My List" button 200. Selection of Activate My List
button 200 indicates to host 12 that client 16 desires for host 12
to store the indicated settings and the client list into account
information 54. Host 12 may then delivery audiovisual works to
client 16 according to the settings and client list.
[0079] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate a GUI 240 that graphically
depicts a client list filtered by category. As illustrated, GUI 240
filters the client list according to movie genre. Similar to GUI
180, GUI 240 includes various features, such as links, buttons, and
checkboxes, that together enable client 16 to select and order
audiovisual works into a custom client list. In the embodiment
illustrated, GUI 240 filters action/adventure movies from the
client list. To remove filtration, client 16 may select "Remove
Filter" link 242. While GUI 240 graphically depicts a client list
filtered by category, various filtering may be helpful, such as
filtering according to categorization rules. Furthermore, since
only one category may be associated with each delivery slot, GUI
240 may simultaneously depict filtration according to
categorization rules.
[0080] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B illustrate a GUI 260 that graphically
depicts an automatic selection feature. GUI 260 includes various
features, such as links, buttons, and checkboxes, that together
enable client 16 to activate automatic selection of audiovisual
works for delivery to client 16.
[0081] In the embodiment illustrated, various genres of movies are
presented to client 16 for client 16 to rate. As illustrated,
selections of stars 264 by client 16 indicate preferences for each
genre. Five stars may represent a high preference for a particular
genre, while one star may represent a low preference for the genre.
For example, as illustrated, client 16 may indicate a high
preference for action/adventure movies using stars 264a and a low
preference for children's movies using stars 264b.
[0082] GUI 260 also includes ratings classifications checkboxes
266. Using ratings classifications checkboxes 266, client 16 may
include or exclude movies of particular ratings classifications.
For example, as illustrated, client 16 has indicated to include
movies of every ratings classification except one. Ratings systems
may rate audiovisual works in various ways. For example, a rating
may indicate age appropriateness and/or content elements. The
rating may be directed toward parents. In addition, ratings systems
may be developed by independent and/or governments. Various
classification rating systems may be used for various audiovisual
works. For example, the Motion Picture Association of America rates
movies into classifications such as G, PG, PG-13, R, and NC-17.
Alternate ratings classifications may be used for movies, for
example, the ratings depicted in GUI 260 correspond with ratings
classifications for movies in the United Kingdom. Furthermore,
alternate types of audiovisual works, such as video games and
television, may include other ratings classification systems. In
similar ways, client 16 may indicate audiovisual works to include
or exclude during automatic selection or using any other
appropriate technique.
[0083] "Auto-choose" checkbox 270 may be selected or deselected to
indicate to host 12 to activate the automatic selection function.
Using update button 272, client 16 may indicate to host 12 when
client 16 has finished rating movie genres, including or excluding
ratings classifications, and determining whether to use the
automatic selection feature. By selecting update button 272, client
16 allows host 12 to record information indicated in GUI 260 in
account information 54.
[0084] When client 16 has indicated to activate automatic
selection, the feature may be used at various times by host 12. In
some embodiments, automatic selection occurs when the client list
becomes short or empty due to delivery of audiovisual works on the
client list. In some embodiments, host 12 may update the automatic
selection list at appropriate times to include newly released
audiovisual works in the client list. Host 12 may use various
algorithms to generate an automatic selection list.
[0085] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B illustrate a GUI 280 that graphically
depicts a feature to generate a list of recommended audiovisual
works for presentation to client 16 for selection. GUI 280 includes
various features, such as links, buttons, and checkboxes, that
together enable client 16 to generate a suggested or recommended
list audiovisual works according to preferences of client 16 and
various other factors.
[0086] In the embodiment illustrated, various genres of movies are
presented to client 16 for client 16 to rate. As illustrated,
selections of stars 284 by client 16 indicate preferences for each
genre. Five stars may represent a high preference for a particular
genre, while one star may represent a low preference for the genre.
For example, as illustrated, client 16 may indicate a low
preference for action/adventure movies using stars 284a and a high
preference for children's movies using stars 284b.
[0087] GUI 280 also includes ratings classifications checkboxes
286. Using ratings classifications checkboxes 286, client 16 may
include or exclude movies of particular ratings classifications.
For example, as illustrated, client 16 has indicated to include
movies of every ratings classification except one. As discussed
above, various classification rating systems may be used for
various audiovisual works.
[0088] Using continue button 288, client 16 may indicate to host 12
when client 16 has finished rating movie genres and including or
excluding ratings classifications. By selecting continue button
288, client 16 allows host 12 to record information indicated in
GUI 280 in account information 54. Host 12 may then use various
algorithms to generate a recommended list of audiovisual works to
present to client 16. As discussed above, the algorithms used to
generate the recommended list may be the same, similar, or
different when compared with the algorithms used to automatically
select audiovisual works to deliver to clients 16. According to
some embodiments, the recommended list may be limited by host 12 to
a particular number of audiovisual works, such one hundred, and
displayed in sets, such as sets of ten. Client 16 may rerun the
selection process any number of times, and randomization features
included in the algorithms may result in different lists being
generated each time. Once the recommended list is presented to
client 16, client 16 may select one or more of the recommended
audiovisual works to include in the client list.
[0089] The preceding GUIs illustrate particular embodiments of Web
pages that enable provision of audiovisual works. However these
GUIs illustrate only exemplary interfaces, and system 10
contemplates devices using any suitable GUIs or other devices for
performing these functions.
[0090] Although the present invention has been described in several
embodiments, a myriad of changes and modifications may be suggested
to one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the present
invention encompass such changes and modifications as fall within
the present appended claims.
* * * * *