U.S. patent application number 14/027069 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-16 for monitoring capabilities for mobile electronic devices.
This patent application is currently assigned to Apple Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to William E. Bull, Policarpo Wood.
Application Number | 20140018107 14/027069 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40851459 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140018107 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bull; William E. ; et
al. |
January 16, 2014 |
MONITORING CAPABILITIES FOR MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Abstract
Improved computer-implemented techniques for providing relevant
information to mobile electronic devices are disclosed. According
to one aspect, usage of mobile electronic devices can be monitored
and usage data can be formed. The usage data can then be used to
perform an action. The action can operate to provide more relevant
information, such as digital (e.g., online) information or rewards,
to the user. In one embodiment, usage of mobile electronic devices
can be monitored and users of such mobile electronic devices can be
provided with rewards based on their usage. Another aspect pertains
to monitoring locations of a mobile electronic device for a
duration of time and then providing location-specific information
based on the locations of the device.
Inventors: |
Bull; William E.; (Mountain
View, CA) ; Wood; Policarpo; (San Jose, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Apple Inc. |
Cupertino |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Apple Inc.
Cupertino
CA
|
Family ID: |
40851459 |
Appl. No.: |
14/027069 |
Filed: |
September 13, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12014552 |
Jan 15, 2008 |
8548925 |
|
|
14027069 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
455/456.3 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/02 20130101;
H04W 4/029 20180201; G06Q 30/0207 20130101; H04W 4/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
455/456.3 |
International
Class: |
H04W 4/02 20060101
H04W004/02 |
Claims
1.-15. (canceled)
16. A method for providing location-based information to an
electronic device, said method comprising: monitoring a location of
a mobile device; determining location-based information that is
related to the monitored location of the mobile device; and
providing the location-based information to the electronic
device.
17. A method as recited in claim 16, wherein said providing
comprises: receiving the location-based information at the
electronic device from an information server.
18. A method as recited in claim 18, wherein the electronic device
is a personal computer or is the mobile device.
19. A method as recited in claim 16, wherein said providing
comprises: receiving the location-based information at a host
computer from an information server; and sending at least a portion
of the location-based information from the host computer to the
mobile device.
20. A method as recited in claim 18, wherein said method comprises:
storing multiple locations of the mobile device provided by said
monitoring over a period of time.
21. A method for acquiring location-specific information, said
method comprising: detecting connection of a mobile device to a
host computer; transferring, to the host computer, a set of
locations that the mobile device has visited; sending the set of
locations from the host computer to a remote information server;
receiving, at the host computer, the location-specific information
from the remote information server, the location-specific
information being determined based at least in part on the set of
locations; and sending at least a portion of the location-specific
information from the host computer to the mobile device.
22. A method as recited in claim 21, wherein the portion of the
location-specific information is a digital information feed that is
related to one or more of the locations of the mobile device within
the set of locations.
23. A method as recited in claim 21, wherein said sending of the
set of locations from the host computer to the remote information
server comprises: sending a request for location-specific
information from the host computer to a remote information server,
the request including or associating with the set of locations.
24. A method for accessing location-based information, said method
comprising: monitoring a location of a mobile device associated
with a user; storing multiple locations of the mobile device
provided by said monitoring over a period of time; subsequently
connecting the mobile device with a host device; transferring,
following said connecting, the multiple locations from the mobile
device to the host computer; determining digital information that
is related to one or more of the multiple locations of the mobile
device by analyzing the multiple locations of the mobile device;
and facilitating access to the determined digital information.
25. A method as recited in claim 24, wherein said transferring is
part of a synchronization between the mobile device and the host
computer.
26. A method as recited in claim 24, wherein the digital
information is a coupon of a merchant having a place of business at
or proximate to one or more of the multiple locations.
27. A method as recited in claim 24, wherein the digital
information comprises a recommendation that is dependent on one or
more of the multiple locations.
28. A method as recited in claim 24, wherein the digital
information is a digital information feed.
29. A method as recited in claim 24, wherein said facilitating
comprises presenting the digital information to the user via the
mobile device or the host computer.
30. A method as recited in claim 24, wherein said determining
comprises analyzing the multiple locations at the host device to
determine the digital information that is related to at least a
plurality of the multiple locations of the mobile device.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to mobile electronic devices
and, more particularly, to usage or location monitoring of mobile
electronic devices.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Many people carry at least one mobile electronic device
every day and through out the day. These mobile electronic devices
tend to be very important digital tools or companions for users.
Examples of some common mobile electronic devices are Personal
Digital Assistants (PDAs), digital media players, mobile phones,
and portable computers.
[0005] Today, merchants can track customer buying patterns. If
customers make purchases during their visits using a "loyalty card"
(or loyalty number), then the merchants can track purchases by
customers. Using a loyalty card, a user can receive a discount or
other reward for repeated purchases with a particular merchant.
Also, conventionally, use of a particular credit card for a
purchase made at a particular merchant can also facilitate
monitoring customer buying patterns. However, when no purchases are
made, merchants generally have no understanding of who are visiting
their stores and how often. As a result, in many instances,
merchants are not able to reward its repeat patrons.
[0006] Also, today, users of network browsers can configure their
access webpage (e.g., "MyYahoo" provided by Yahoo! Inc.) for a
network browser application (e.g., Safari.TM. application from
Apple Inc.) to be presented with information of interest. However,
configured preferences or settings that are used to determine the
content for the webpage are fixed; hence, the characteristics for
the webpage are fixed until subsequently changed through user
interaction to alter the preferences or settings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention pertains to computer-implemented techniques
for providing relevant information to mobile electronic devices.
According to one aspect, usage of mobile electronic devices can be
monitored and usage data can be formed. The usage data can then be
used to perform an action. The action can operate to provide more
relevant information, such as digital (e.g., online) information or
rewards, to the user. In one embodiment, usage of mobile electronic
devices can be monitored and users of such mobile electronic
devices can be provided with rewards based on their usage. Another
aspect of the invention pertains to monitoring locations of a
mobile electronic device for a duration of time and then providing
location-specific information based on the locations of the
device.
[0008] The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including
as a method, system, device, or apparatus (including graphical user
interface and computer readable medium). Several embodiments of the
invention are discussed below.
[0009] As a method for providing patrons with rewards, one
embodiment of the invention includes at least the acts of:
detecting presence of a mobile electronic device at a particular
establishment; updating a presence indicator regarding the
particular establishment if the presence of the mobile electronic
device at the particular establishment is detected; obtaining one
or more reward rules associated with the particular establishment;
and determining whether a reward is due to the mobile electronic
device or its user based on presence indicator and the one or more
reward rules.
[0010] As a method for rewarding patrons for device usage at
particular locations, one embodiment of the invention includes at
least the acts of: monitoring device usage to accumulate device
usage information; determining whether a reward is due based on the
accumulated device usage information; and delivering a reward to
the device or its user if it is determined that a reward is
due.
[0011] As a method for providing location-based information to an
electronic device, one embodiment of the invention includes at
least the acts of: monitoring a location of a mobile device;
determining location-based information that is related to the
monitored location of the mobile device; and providing the
location-based information to the electronic device.
[0012] As a method for acquiring location-specific information, one
embodiment of the invention includes at least the acts of:
detecting connection of a mobile device to a host computer;
transferring, to the host computer, a set of locations that the
mobile device has visited; sending the set of locations from the
host computer to a remote information server; receiving, at the
host computer, the location-specific information from the remote
information server, the location-specific information being
determined based at least in part on the set of locations; and
sending at least a portion of the location-specific information
from the host computer to the mobile device.
[0013] As a method for accessing location-based information, one
embodiment of the invention includes at least the acts of:
monitoring a location of a mobile device associated with a user;
storing multiple locations of the mobile device provided by the
monitoring over a period of time; subsequently connecting the
mobile device with a host device; transferring, following the
connection, the multiple locations from the mobile device to the
host computer; determining digital information that is related to
one or more of the multiple locations of the mobile device by
analyzing the multiple locations of the mobile device; and
facilitating access to the determined digital information.
[0014] Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become
apparent from the following detailed description taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way
of example, the principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The invention will be readily understood by the following
detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements,
and in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a usage monitoring system according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a usage monitoring system
according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a usage monitoring and rewards
server according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a usage and reward process
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a usage and reward process
according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a usage and reward process
according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a deferred reward delivery
process according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a location monitoring system
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a location monitoring and
presentment process according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of an information retrieval
process according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a location-specific information
process according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0027] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an information customization
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a mobile multi-function device
according to one embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The invention pertains to computer-implemented techniques
for providing relevant information to mobile electronic devices.
According to one aspect, usage of mobile electronic devices can be
monitored and usage data can be formed. The usage data can then be
used to perform an action. The action can operate to provide more
relevant information, such as digital (e.g., online) information or
rewards, to the user. In one embodiment, usage of mobile electronic
devices can be monitored and users of such mobile electronic
devices can be provided with rewards based on their usage. Another
aspect of the invention pertains to monitoring locations of a
mobile electronic device for a duration of time and then providing
location-specific information based on the locations of the
device.
[0030] Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with
reference to FIGS. 1-13. However, those skilled in the art will
readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with
respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the
invention extends beyond these limited embodiments.
[0031] According to one aspect, usage of mobile electronic devices
can be monitored and usage data can be formed. The usage data can
then be used to perform an action. The action can operate to
provide more relevant information, such as online information or
rewards, to the user. In one embodiment, usage of mobile electronic
devices can be monitored and users of such mobile electronic
devices can be provided with rewards based on their usage.
[0032] FIG. 1 is a usage monitoring system 100 according to one
embodiment of the invention. The usage monitoring system 100
includes a usage monitoring server 102 that monitors usage at a
plurality of establishments. As illustrated in FIG. 1, an
establishment A 104 and an establishment B 106 are illustrated as
representative establishments. The establishments 104 and 106 can
pertain the same organization or different organizations. As users
with mobile devices visit the establishments 104 and 106, the usage
monitoring server 102 receives information on the usage of the
mobile devices at particular establishments. The usage monitoring
server 102 can record such usage information. Additionally, the
usage information can be examined for variety purposes. In one
implementation, the usage information can be evaluated to determine
whether a reward (i.e., some sort of benefit) is to be awarded to
the users of the mobile devices. In another implementation, the
usage information can be analyzed to profile the users so that more
relevant information (e.g., digital information) can be provided to
the users.
[0033] Establishments can participate in mutually beneficial
arrangements to monitor usage of mobile electronic devices.
Establishments are physical locations of organizations or
businesses. One common establishment is a retail store. Examples of
establishments include coffee/tea shops, new stands, gyms,
electronics stores, media stores, food service stores, sporting
goods stores, bars, etc. A group of organizations or businesses,
such as those that are closely proximate to one another, can also
effectively be grouped into a group establishment. For example,
business tenants in a shopping mall can form a group establishment.
In one implementation, the shopping mall can provide electronic
equipment to monitor electronic device usage within the shopping
mall.
[0034] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a usage monitoring system 200
according to another embodiment of the invention. The usage
monitoring system 200 includes a usage monitoring and rewards
server 202. The usage monitoring system 200 also includes or
couples to a plurality of establishments, including establishment A
204 and establishment B 206 as illustrated in FIG. 2. The usage
monitoring and rewards server 202 can communicate with networking
equipment resident at the establishments by way of a data network
208. The data network 208 can include one or more networks, whether
wired or wireless, that are able to transmit data. The usage
monitoring system 200 also includes or couples (directly or
indirectly) to an online media store 210 that permits network
access to the online media store 210 so that media items can be
searched, browsed, previewed, rented or purchased. The usage
monitoring system 200 can also couple to a host computer 212. The
host computer 212 is typically associated with a particular user
that has a mobile device, such as mobile device (MD-1) 214. As one
example, the host computer 212 can pertain to a personal computer
and the mobile device 214 is a mobile telephone or a personal
digital assistant with network access capabilities.
[0035] The user, together with the mobile device 214, can move
about to various locations. In doing so, the mobile device 214 can
be caused to visit the establishment A 204. When this occurs, the
networking equipment resident at the establishment A 204 can detect
usage (e.g., presence) of the mobile device 214 at the
establishment A 204. After detecting such usage, the networking
equipment can signal the usage monitoring and rewards server 202
that the mobile device 214 (and thus its user) is currently located
at the establishment A 204. Alternatively, the mobile device 214
could include a location determining module (e.g., a global
positioning system (GPS) receiver) to detect usage (e.g., presence)
of the mobile device 214 at the establishment A 204.
[0036] The usage monitoring and rewards server 202 can track such
mobile device usage over time. For example, if the mobile device
214 often frequents the establishment A 204, the usage monitoring
and rewards server 202 will understand that the mobile device 214
is a frequent visitor to the establishment A 204. As such, the
usage monitoring and rewards server 202 can cause a reward to be
made available to the mobile device 214 or its user. For example,
if the mobile device 214 visits the establishment A 204 five times
in a given month, the usage monitoring and rewards server 202 could
cause in the mobile device 214 or its user to receive a reward.
Examples of rewards can include a rebate, coupon, gift card, store
credit, free item, free service, etc. The reward can be associated
with a particular establishment or could be associated with the
online media store 210, regardless of whether the online media
stored 210 has any direct association with the establishment A
204.
[0037] The reward can be provided to the mobile device 214 or its
user in any of various different ways. In one embodiment, the
reward can be transmitted, and thus electrically (digitally)
delivered, to the mobile device 214 while the mobile device 214 is
at the establishment A 204 because the establishment A 204 can
offer network connectivity to the data network 208 to the mobile
device 214. For example, the establishment A 204 can provide WiFi
access to the online media store 210 via the data network 208.
Here, the mobile device 214 can receive the reward while still at
the establishment A 204 or at a subsequent visit to the
establishment A 204 (or an affiliated establishment/location).
Alternatively, in another embodiment, the reward can be made
available to the host computer 212 that is associated with the user
of the mobile device 214. The reward can be transmitted to the host
computer 212. Further, at a suitable time, the reward can be
printed or electronically transferred (e.g., downloaded) from the
host computer 212 to the mobile device 214. In still another
embodiment, the reward can be delivered to the mobile device 214
and stored (e.g., cached) therein until the mobile device later
visits (e.g., next visit) to the establishment A 204 at which time
the reward can be presented to the user or the user can be altered
as to the reward.
[0038] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a usage monitoring and rewards
server 300 according to one embodiment of the invention. The usage
monitoring and rewards server 300 is, for example, suitable for use
as the usage monitoring and rewards server 202 illustrated in FIG.
2.
[0039] The usage monitoring and rewards server 300 includes a
processing engine 302, a memory 304 and a network interface 306.
The network interface 306 can include a link 308 that is suitable
for coupling the usage monitoring and rewards server 300 to a data
network, such as the data network 208 illustrated in FIG. 2. The
memory 304 can provide data storage for the usage monitoring and
rewards server 300. The data being stored in the memory 304 can,
for example, include usage data 310, rewards rules 312 and reward
data 314. The usage data 310 can include usage information
regarding various devices. For example, in one embodiment, the
usage data can include counts of the number of times that
particular mobile devices had visited particular establishments (or
locations). In another embodiment, the usage data 310 can include
locations and times that particular mobile devices visited
particular establishments (or locations). The reward rules 312
provide conditional rules that can be evaluated based on the usage
data 310. If and when a conditional aspect of a given reward rule
is satisfied, a particular reward is made available to the
associated mobile device (or its user). The reward data 314 can
provide information on the rewards that are available and/or can
include information regarding rewards that are available to
particular mobile devices (or their users).
[0040] Frequency of use can be monitored generally across a group
of locations or individual locations. One particular type of
frequency of use that can be monitored is how often a mobile device
user visits a location. As noted above, the locations can pertain
to establishments, such as stores. Rules, or reward rules, can
specify a reward available to a mobile device user. In one
embodiment, the greater the frequency of use the greater the
available reward.
[0041] Table I below provides an example of rules for rewards based
on monthly visits to a location. In this example, the more frequent
a user visits a location (e.g., a store) in a given month, the
better the reward available to the user. In one implementation, the
rewards are associated with a location, such as an establishment
being visited. In another implementation, the rewards are
associated with an online media store, such as the online media
store 210.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE I # Visits/Month Available Reward 5 1 Free
Download 10 1 Free Rental 15 $10 Gift Card 30 $20 Gift Card
[0042] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a usage and reward process 400
according to one embodiment of the invention. The usage and reward
process 400 is, for example, performed by a usage monitoring
server, such as the usage monitoring server 102 illustrated in FIG.
1, or a usage monitoring and rewards server, such as the usage
monitoring and rewards server 202 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0043] The usage and reward process 400 monitors 402 device usage.
Typically, the usage and reward process 400 monitors a plurality of
devices. The devices are mobile electronic devices, such as
personal digital assistants, mobile telephones, portable computers
and the like. In one embodiment, the monitoring 402 of device usage
concerns monitoring device usage while the device is at a location,
such as an establishment.
[0044] The usage and reward process 400 can also include a decision
404. The decision 404 can determine whether a reward is due to a
particular mobile device or its user. As discussed in more detail
below, a reward can represent a wide variety of different types of
benefits being offered to patrons of a location (establishment).
For example, the notification of the reward can pertain to a coupon
(physical or electronic) that can be later shown to a merchant to
receive the reward (e.g., discount). When the decision 404
determines that a reward is due to a particular mobile device or
its user, a reward can be delivered 406 to the device or its user.
In one implementation, the reward is electronically transmitted to
the mobile device. In another implementation, the user of the
mobile device can be notified of the reward and the delivery of the
reward to the user or the mobile device can be performed
electronically or physically. In still another implementation, the
delivery of the reward can be deferred until the user or the mobile
device subsequently visits the same (or an affiliated) location. On
the other hand, when the decision 404 determines that a reward is
not due to a particular mobile device or its user, the block 406 of
the usage and reward process 400 can be bypassed. Following the
block 406, or it being bypassed, the usage and reward process 410
can end.
[0045] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a usage and reward process 500
according to another embodiment of the invention. The usage and
reward process 500 is, for example, performed by a usage monitoring
server, such as the usage monitoring server 102 illustrated in FIG.
1, or a usage monitoring and rewards server, such as the usage
monitoring and rewards server 202 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0046] The usage and reward process 500 can begin with a decision
502. The decision 502 can determine whether a device, namely a
mobile device, is at an establishment. Here, the device usage is
monitored while the device is at an establishment. For example, how
frequent a device is at an establishment can be used in determining
whether a reward is to be provided.
[0047] When the decision 502 determines that the device is at an
establishment, a particular establishment can be identified at 504.
Next, a presence indicator for the particular establishment can be
updated 506. In addition, one or more reward rules associated with
the particular establishment can be obtained 508.
[0048] Next, a decision 510 determines whether a reward is due to
the device or its user. The decision 510 can utilize the presence
indicator and the reward riles to determine whether a reward is
due. When the decision 510 determines that a reward is due, the
reward can be delivered 512 to the device or its user. The delivery
of the reward can be immediate or deferred. Following the block
512, the usage and reward process 500 can end.
[0049] In addition, when the decision 502 determines that the
device is not at an establishment, the blocks 504-512 can be
bypassed such that the usage and reward process 500 can directly
end. Alternatively, when the decision 502 determines that the
device is not at an establishment, the usage and reward process 500
can either await being at the establishment or be deemed not
invoked. Also, when the decision 510 determines that a reward is
not due, the usage and reward process 500 can bypass the block 512
and end.
[0050] The usage and reward process 500 can be performed for
various mobile devices as their users visit establishments
providing usage monitoring. In one embodiment, the usage and reward
process 500 can be periodically repeated or otherwise invoked to
provide near continuous monitoring for devices at
establishments.
[0051] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a usage and reward process 600
according to another embodiment of the invention. The usage and
reward process 600 is, for example, performed by a usage monitoring
server, such as the usage monitoring server 102 illustrated in FIG.
1, or a usage monitoring and rewards server, such as the usage
monitoring and rewards server 202 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0052] The usage and reward process 600 can begin with a decision
602. A decision 602 determines whether a device has entered an
establishment. Here, according to one embodiment, it is assumed
that the establishment is participating with the usage monitoring
server or usage monitoring and reward server to provide local
wireless infrastructure to sense usage (e.g., presence) of mobile
devices at the establishment. In one embodiment, the establishments
and one or more remote servers (e.g., the usage monitoring server
or the usage monitoring and reward server) have a mutually
beneficial arrangement to monitor device usage. When the decision
602 determines that a device has not entered an establishment, the
usage and reward process 600 can await the determination that a
device has entered an establishment. In other words, the usage and
rewards process 600 can continuously, periodically or on-demand
perform the usage and reward process 600.
[0053] When the decision 602 determines that a device has entered
an establishment, an establishment count associated with the device
(or the device user) can be increased. Here, in this embodiment,
the establishment count represents the number of times that the
device (or the device user) has entered (e.g., visited) the
establishment. To control the count, limits can be placed on (i)
the number of times per day that the establishment count can be
increased (maximum daily count increase), or (ii) how frequently
the count can be increased.
[0054] Next, reward rules associated with the establishment are
obtained 606. The reward rules are rules that can be provided by or
associated with the establishment to specify rules that determine
whether the user of a particular mobile device is eligible to
receive a reward. The reward rules can also specify the particular
reward to be provided to the user of the particular mobile device.
The reward rules can then be evaluated 608 based on the
establishment count.
[0055] A decision 610 can then determine whether a reward is due.
When the decision 610 determines that a reward is due based on the
evaluation 608 of the reward rules, a decision 612 can determine
whether delivery of the reward should be deferred. When the
decision 612 determines that delivery of the reward is not to be
deferred, the reward can be delivered 614 to the device or the user
thereof. Alternatively, when the decision 612 determines that the
reward is to be deferred, the reward can be queued 616 for later
delivery. Following the blocks 614 and 616, the usage and reward
process 600 can end. In addition, following the decision 610 when
the decision 610 determines that a reward is not due, the usage and
reward process 600 can also end.
[0056] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a deferred reward delivery
process 700 according to one embodiment of the invention. The
deferred reward delivery process 700 is, for example, performed by
a host computer, such as the host computer 212 illustrated in FIG.
1. However, the deferred reward delivery process 700 can also be
performed by a server, such as the usage monitoring server
illustrated in FIG. 1 or the usage monitoring and rewards server
202 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0057] The deferred reward delivery process 700 can begin with a
decision 702 that determines whether a device, namely, a mobile
device, is connected. Here, the decision 702 determines whether a
mobile device is connected, wirelessly or wired, to the host
computer. When the decision 702 determines that the mobile device
is not connected to the host computer, the deferred reward delivery
process 700 can wait for the presence of the connection.
Alternatively, once the decision 702 determines that the mobile
device is connected to the host device, a decision 704 can
determine whether the mobile phone has been authenticated 704. When
the decision 704 determines that the mobile device has not been
authenticated, the deferred reward delivery process 700 can return
to repeat the decision 702 such that only authentic mobile devices
can be used. Authentication can be provided by the mobile device
itself and/or provided by user input with respect to the mobile
device.
[0058] On the other hand, when the decision 704 determines that the
mobile device has been authenticated, a decision 706 can determine
whether there are any rewards to be downloaded from the host
computer to the mobile device. Although the rewards can be
electronic and thus downloadable to the host computer, in one
implementation reward information is downloaded and then used to
acquire the reward, either electronically or physically. When the
decision 706 determines that there are one or more rewards to be
downloaded to the mobile device, the reward (or reward information)
can be downloaded 708 to the device. Alternatively, when the
decision 706 determines that there are no rewards to be downloaded,
the block 708 can be bypassed.
[0059] Following the block 708 or its being bypassed, a decision
710 can determine whether synchronization has been performed for
the mobile device and the host device. When the decision 710
determines that synchronization is to be performed, data within the
mobile device can be synchronized 712 with data residing on or
accessible to the host computer. When the decision 710 determines
that synchronization is not to be performed, the block 712 can be
bypassed. Following the block 712, or its being bypassed, a
decision 714 determines whether the deferred reward delivery
process 700 should end. When the decision 714 determines that the
deferred reward delivery process 700 should not end, the deferred
reward delivery process 700 can optionally perform other processing
716. Thereafter, the deferred reward delivery process 700 can
return to repeat the decision 710 and subsequent operations.
Alternatively, when the decision 714 determines that the deferred
reward delivery process 700 should end, then the deferred reward
delivery process 700 can end.
[0060] In an alternative embodiment, a reward (or reward
information) can be transmitted (e.g., downloaded) to a host
computer. Then, if desired, the reward (or reward information) can
be transferred (e.g., during a synchronization operation) from the
host computer to a mobile device.
[0061] In another embodiment, a user of the mobile device can be
notified that they are eligible for a reward based on their usage.
The notification can inform the user what the reward is and either
provide the reward or provide information on how to retrieve the
award. The notification can be electronically transmitted to the
mobile device or some other device, such as a personal computer.
The user can, for example, retrieve the reward from the mobile
device or the personal computer.
[0062] Another aspect of the invention pertains to monitoring
locations of a mobile electronic device for a duration of time and
then providing location-specific information based on the location
of the device. The determination of locations of the mobile
electronic device can be performed by the mobile device itself or
by a network system. The location-specific information can be
provided by a remote server via a network to a host computer or a
mobile electronic device.
[0063] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a location monitoring system
800 according to one embodiment of the invention. The location
monitoring system 800 operates to monitor the locations of various
different mobile devices and then provide to users information
related to the locations.
[0064] The location monitoring system 800 includes a mobile device
802. The mobile device 802 is representative of numerous different
types of mobile electronic devices that can be utilized in the
location monitoring system 800. In one embodiment, the mobile
device 802 has a location determining module so that it can
determine its location. As one example, the location determining
module can include at least a global positioning system (GPS)
receiver. In another embodiment, the location determining module
can include wireless communication circuitry to determine or assist
in the determination of the location of the mobile device 802.
[0065] The location monitoring system 800 can also include a host
computer 806. The host computer 806 is typically affiliated with
one or more mobile devices (e.g., mobile device 802) that are used
by the same or affiliated user. A link 804 can be established
between the mobile device 802 and the host computer 806. The link
804 can correspond to a wired or wireless data connection that can
be established between the mobile device 802 and the host computer
806. For example, a particular user might have a mobile device that
is used during the day while away from home, and then in the
evening the user returns to home where the user has a home computer
(i.e., host computer). In such an example, the mobile device can
link to the home computer when the mobile device and home computer
are both at the home.
[0066] The location monitoring system 800 can also include an
information server 808 and a data network 810. The data network 810
can pertain to a network of one or more networks, whether wired or
wireless, that are used to provide a data link between the host
computer 806 and the information server 808. The information server
808 can provide location dependent information to requestors. For
example, the requestors can be the host computer 806 or the mobile
device 802.
[0067] More particularly, in one embodiment, the mobile device 802
operates to record its location over a period of time. Then, when
the mobile device 802 connects to the host computer 806 via the
link 804, the location information acquired by the mobile device
802 can be sent to the host computer 806 via the link 804. The host
computer 806 can then process the location information to produce
location data. The degree of processing of the location information
can vary. For example, the processing can merely organize the
location information, or the processing can perform at least some
analysis on the location information.
[0068] The location data can then be sent to the information server
808 along with a request for information that pertains to the
location data. The information server 808 can operate to satisfy
the request for data in view of the location data by returning
appropriate location-specific information to the host computer 806.
The host computer 806 can store the location-specific information
and/or can present some or all of the location-specific information
at the host computer 806. In addition, the host computer 806 can
send the location-specific information to the mobile device 802.
Thereafter, the mobile device 802 can store the location-specific
information. At some point, the mobile device 802 can present some
or all of the location-specific information. In this regard, the
location-specific information being presented at the mobile device
802 and/or the host computer 806 can depend upon the location or
locations for which the mobile device 802 was used. The presentment
of the location-specific information at the host computer 806 or
the mobile device 802 can be visual and/or audio. As one example,
presentment of the location-specific information at the host
computer 806 or the mobile device 802 can cause display of the
location-specific information on a display of the host computer 802
of the mobile device 802. As another example, presentment of the
location-specific information at the host computer 806 or the
mobile device 802 can cause playback of an audio rendition of the
location-specific information at the host computer 802 of the
mobile device 802.
[0069] In another embodiment, the data network 810 (e.g., a
wireless network) can record the location of the mobile device 802
over a period of time using wireless signals (e.g., triangulation
techniques or signal strength). The locations can be stored
remotely by an apparatus coupled to the data network 810.
Optionally or alternatively, the mobile device 802 and/or the host
computer 806 can store the locations.
[0070] The locations (or location information) can be processed to
produce location data. When location-specific information is to be
provided, the location data can be sent to the information server
808 along with a request for information that pertains to the
location data. The information server 808 can further process the
location data, such as analyzing the locations, types of locations,
or frequency of locations. The information server 808 can then
operate to satisfy the request for information in view of the
location data and return appropriate location-specific information
to the requestor. The host computer 806 can store the
location-specific information and/or can present some or all of the
location-specific information at the host computer 806. In
addition, the host computer 806 can send the location information
to the mobile device 802. Thereafter, the mobile device 802 can
present some or all of the location information. In this regard,
the location information being presented at the mobile device 802
and/or the host computer 806 can depend upon the location or
locations for which the mobile device 802 was used. The location
information can be digital content pertaining to the location or
locations. The location information can pertain to rewards or
recommendations. A recommendation can be determined based on at
least the location or locations.
[0071] As noted above, the location of the mobile device 802 can be
determined by or with the assistance of a location determining
module provided with a mobile device. When the location determining
module includes wireless communication circuitry, the mobile device
is able to interact with one or more wireless networks to determine
or assist in determining its location. For example, the wireless
network can be a cellular network which is able to provide
approximate location of a mobile device. In this example, the
location is determined by the cellular network using the wireless
communication capabilities of the mobile device. As another
example, the wireless network can be a WiFi network and given the
limited range of a WiFi hotspot, the location of the mobile device
can be correlated to the location of the WiFi hotspot when the
mobile device is able to connect to the WiFi hotspot.
[0072] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a location monitoring and
presentment process 900 according to one embodiment of the
invention. The location monitoring and presentment process 900 is,
for example, performed by a mobile device, such as the mobile
device 802 illustrated in FIG. 8.
[0073] The location monitoring and presentment process 900 can
begin with a decision 902. The decision 902 can determine whether
location monitoring is to be provided or performed at the mobile
device. In one implementation, location monitoring can be
controlled by device configuration, user preference, user profile,
or by a system configuration. When the decision 902 determines that
location monitoring is to be performed, then a device location for
the mobile device can be recorded 904. In one implementation, the
device location can be periodically recorded 904 when location
monitoring is being performed (i.e., enabled).
[0074] Following the block 904, or directly following the decision
902 when location monitoring is not to be performed, a decision 906
can determine whether the mobile device is connected to a host
device (e.g., host computer 806). When the decision 906 determines
that the mobile device is connected to the host device, one or more
device locations that have been previously recorded (or acquired)
are sent 908 the host device. In this embodiment, the mobile device
acquires the location information (e.g., via its location
determining module). A decision 910 can then determine whether
location-specific information has been received at the mobile
device. When the decision 910 determines that location-specific
information has been received, the location-specific information
can be stored in or presented 912 at the mobile device.
[0075] Following the block 912 or following the decision 910
directly when location-specific information is not received, a
decision 914 can determine whether the location monitoring and
presentment process 900 should end. The decision 914 can also be
performed following the decision 906 when the mobile device is not
connected to the host device. In any case, when the decision 914
determines that the location monitoring and presentment process 900
should not end, the location monitoring and presentment process 900
can return to repeat the decision 902 and subsequent blocks.
Alternatively, when the decision 914 determines that the location
monitoring and presentment process 900 should end, then the
location monitoring and presentment process 900 can end.
[0076] As noted above, the location monitoring can yield
location-based information or location-specific information. In
general, location-based information or location-specific
information is information (e.g., data) relevant to monitored
locations. This information (e.g., data) can be presented in a
visual and/or audio manner. The information (e.g., data) can also
be structured data that is further processed (e.g., locally) before
being presented. By providing location-based information or
location-specific information, a mobile device is able to better
support its user and thus offer an improved user experience with
the mobile device.
[0077] In one embodiment, the location-specific information can be
a coupon or menu for a business (e.g., restaurant). The coupon or
menu can then be locally stored and rapidly presented on the mobile
device. In one implementation, the menu or coupon can be presented
on the mobile device when the mobile device later is nearby the
corresponding business. In another embodiment, the
location-specific information can be predicted from the monitored
locations of a mobile device. For example, if the user (and the
mobile device) frequent a particular business or type of business,
the location-specific information can be relevant to the particular
business or type of business.
[0078] In another embodiment, the location-specific information can
provide a recommendation to a user of the mobile device. For
example, if the user frequents a coffee shop during weekday
mornings, the location-specific information can recommend a new
coffee shop or a more convenient coffee shop. For example, a coffee
shop at a location more convenient to another location that the
user (and the mobile device) frequent, such as work, school, etc.,
can be recommended. The recommendation can also suggest to the user
with a single location that could be visited in place of two
separate different locations that the user stops. For example, if
the user often stops for coffee at a coffee store and also makes a
separate stop at a donut store that is at a different location, the
system can recommend a single location that would be more
convenient for the user. The recommendations can take into
consideration the user's normal geographical area.
[0079] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of an information retrieval
process 1000 according to one embodiment of the invention. The
information retrieval process 1000 is, for example, performed by a
host device, such as the host computer 806 illustrated in FIG.
8.
[0080] The information retrieval process 1000 can began with a
decision 1002. The decision 1002 can determine whether a device is
connected to a host device. When the decision 1002 determines that
the mobile device is not connected to a host device, the
information retrieval process 1000 awaits such a connection and
can, if desired, perform other unrelated processing (not shown). On
the other hand, once the decision 1002 determines that a connection
has been made, an authentication decision 1004 can determine
whether the mobile device it is able to be authenticated to the
host device. When the decision 1004 determines that authentication
has not been successful, the information retrieval process 1000 is
not able to be further performed so the information retrieval
process 1000 can end.
[0081] On the other hand, when the decision 1004 determines that
the mobile device is authenticated, the host device can receive
1006 device locations that have been acquired by the corresponding
mobile device. Next, location-specific information can be obtained
1008 based on the device locations. The location-specific
information can be obtained 1008 either locally at the host device
or remotely from an information server, such as the information
server 808. After the location-specific information has been
obtained 1008, at least a portion of the location-specific
information can be delivered 1010 to the corresponding mobile
device.
[0082] Next, a decision 1012 determines whether the information
retrieval process 1000 should end. When the decision 1012
determines that the information retrieval process should not end,
then other processing 1014 can be optionally performed. The other
processing 1014 is dependent upon implementation and/or
applications supported by the mobile device. Following the other
processing 1014 (if any), the information retrieval process 1000
can return to repeat the decision 1002 so that the information
retrieval processing 1000 can be performed when a device connects
to the host device. On the other hand, when the decision 1012
determines that the information retrieval process 1000 is to end,
then the information retrieval process 1000 can end.
[0083] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a location-specific information
process 1100 according to one embodiment of the invention. The
location-specific information process 1100 is, for example,
performed by an information server.
[0084] The location-specific information process 1100 can receive
1102 the device locations at the information server from a
requestor (host computer or mobile device). Typically, as noted
above, the device locations are provided to the information server
by a host computer via a data network. Alternatively, in another
embodiment, a mobile device can provide the device locations to the
information server without using a host computer as an
intermediary. Next, the device locations can be analyzed 1104 to
identify the location data. For example, the location data can
pertain to a set of locations for the mobile device. Next,
location-specific information can be determined 1106 based on at
least the location data. Thereafter, at least a portion of the
location-specific information is sent 1108 from the information
server to the requestor.
[0085] As noted above, the location-specific information process
1100 can be performed by an information server. However, in an
alternative embodiment, similar processing can be performed by the
host device, such as at block 1008 of the information retrieval
process 1000 illustrated in FIG. 10. In another embodiment,
location-specific information process 1100 can be partially perform
by an information server and partially performed by a host
device.
[0086] The nature, characteristics or type of location-specific
data can depend on the particular implementation. Location-specific
data can also be provided in real-time or deferred. As one example
of a real-time usage scenario, if location data indicates that a
mobile device is at an airport, airport information (e.g., flight
arrivals or departures) can be provided to the mobile device. An
airport might provide a data feed or channel pertaining to airport
information, and when the location of the mobile device is at or
proximate to the airport, the data feed pertaining to airport
information can be made available, received and/or displayed to the
mobile device. As one example of a deferred usage scenario, if the
location data indicates that a user of the mobile device frequents
gyms or exercise facilities, then workout information (e.g.,
workout routines, training supplements, etc.) can be generally made
available, received and/or displayed to the mobile device. In this
example, the workout information can be received or displayed
regardless of whether the mobile device is presently or recently
located at a gym or exercise establishment.
[0087] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an information customization
system 1200 according to one embodiment of the invention. The
information customization system 1200 includes an information
selection module 1202. The information selection module 1202
receives an information request. The information selection module
1202 can also receive location data. The location data can be
provided with the information request, or the location data can be
subsequently or previously provided. The information selection
module 1202 is able to process the information request in view of
the location data to produce location-specific information that is
to be returned to the requestor that has issued the information
request. In one implementation, the location-specific information
can be "pushed" or "pulled" with respect to the information server.
As one example, the location-specific information can be a RSS
feed. In another implementation, the location-specific information
can be "pushed" from the information server to the mobile device.
The mobile device can also "pull" the location-specific information
from the information server.
[0088] The information selection module 1202 can further utilize
other data in determining the location-specific information. As an
example, the information selection module 1202 can make use of
device characteristics associated with the mobile device, user
profile of the user and/or user preferences set by the user. Device
characteristics are characteristics of a mobile device. Examples of
device characteristics can include screen size, screen resolution,
networking capabilities, software modules/applications, etc. A user
profile is a profile of a user of a device, i.e., the mobile
device. The user profile represents the user. The user profile can
be set manually by the user or set automatically by device. User
preferences are settings in hardware or software that are set by a
user. Examples of user preferences include language settings,
topics of interest, geographic interests, etc.
[0089] An information server can support one or more data feeds or
channels that make digital data available. A mobile device can
receive one or more of the data feeds or channels. For example, an
information server can offer a plurality of different data feeds or
channels pertaining to different subjects, locations, times, etc.
Based on a set of locations acquired by monitoring location of a
mobile device, a data feed or channel of probable interest can be
automatically select for a user of the mobile device. Optionally,
the automatic selection can also make use of device characteristics
associated with the mobile device, user profile and/or user
preferences set by the user of the mobile device.
[0090] For additional information on providing information to
mobile electronic devices, see U.S. application Ser. No. ______,
filed concurrently herewith, and entitled "DYNAMIC DELIVERY AND
PRESENTATION OF ELECTRONIC DATA TO MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES,"
which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
[0091] According to one embodiment, data can be delivered from an
information server to a recipient device in an efficient manner. In
one implementation, data being delivered can be associated with a
template that is present on the recipient device. Accordingly, only
data need to be transmitted to the recipient device since the
format and other presentation configurations can be controlled by
the template. The recipient device can be a mobile device or a host
computer. For additional detail on templates, see U.S. application
Ser. No. 11/899,024, filed Sep. 4, 2007, and entitled "USER
INTERFACE ELEMENTS CLONING AND TRANSITIONS," which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
[0092] The portable electronic device utilized herein can, for
example, correspond to a computing device (e.g., personal
computer), mobile phone (e.g., cellular phone), personal digital
assistant (PDA), media player (e.g., music, videos, games, images),
media storage device, camera, remote control, and/or the like. The
electronic device may also be a multi-functional device that
combines two or more of these device functionalities into a single
device. Examples of multi-functional devices can be found in U.S.
Patent Application Publication No. 20060197753, entitled
"MULTI-FUNCTIONAL HAND-HELD DEVICE", which is herein incorporated
by reference.
[0093] The portable electronic device utilized herein can further
be a hand-held electronic device. The term hand-held generally
means that the electronic device has a form factor that is small
enough to be comfortably held in one hand. A hand-held electronic
device may be directed at one-handed operation or two-handed
operation. In one-handed operation, a single hand is used to both
support the device as well as to perform operations with the user
interface during use. In two-handed operation, one hand is used to
support the device while the other hand performs operations with a
user interface during use or alternatively both hands support the
device as well as perform operations during use. In some cases, the
hand-held electronic device is sized for placement into a pocket of
the user. By being pocket-sized, the user does not have to directly
carry the device and therefore the device can be taken almost
anywhere the user travels (e.g., the user is not limited by
carrying a large, bulky and often heavy device).
[0094] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a mobile multi-function device
1300 according to one embodiment of the invention. The mobile
multi-function device 1300 can include the circuitry of a portable
electronic device that can perform the operations described above.
The mobile multi-function device 1300 includes hardware and
software components to provide at least two functions, namely, a
media playback function (including display screen/menu
presentations) and a wireless voice communications function. When
providing media playback, the mobile multi-function device 1300 can
operate as a media player capable of playing (including displaying)
media items. The media items can, for example, pertain to audio
items (e.g., audio files or songs), videos (e.g., movies) or images
(e.g., photos). When providing wireless voice communications, the
mobile multi-function device 1300 can operate as a mobile telephone
(e.g., cellular phone).
[0095] The mobile multi-function device 1300 includes a processor
1302 that pertains to a microprocessor or controller for
controlling the overall operation of the mobile multi-function
device 1300. The mobile multi-function device 1300 stores media
data pertaining to media items in a file system 1304 and a cache
1306. In one embodiment, the file system 1304 is implemented by a
storage disk or a plurality of disks. In another embodiment, the
file system 1304 is implemented by EEPROM or Flash type memory. The
file system 1304 typically provides high capacity storage
capability for the mobile multi-function device 1300. However,
because the access time to the file system 1304 can be relatively
slow, the mobile multi-function device 1300 can also include a
cache 1306. The cache 1306 is, for example, Random-Access Memory
(RAM) provided by semiconductor memory. The relative access time to
the cache 1306 is substantially shorter than for the file system
1304. However, the cache 1306 does not have the large storage
capacity of the file system 1304. Further, the file system 1304,
when active, consumes more power than does the cache 1306. The
power consumption is often a concern when the mobile multi-function
device 1300 is a portable mobile multi-function device that is
powered by a battery 1324. The mobile multi-function device 1300
also includes a RAM 1320 and a Read-Only Memory (ROM) 1322. The ROM
1322 can store programs, utilities or processes to be executed in a
non-volatile manner. The ROM 1322 can be implemented by an EEPROM
or Flash type memory so as to provide writable non-volatile data
storage. The RAM 1320 provides volatile data storage, such as for
the cache 1306.
[0096] In one embodiment, to support wireless voice communications,
the mobile multi-function device 1300 includes a transceiver 1326
and a SIM card 1328. The transceiver 1326 supports wireless
communication with a wireless network (such as a wireless cellular
network). The SIM card 1328 includes an identifier (e.g., SIM
identifier) can be used by the mobile multi-function device 1300 to
gain access and utilize the wireless network. In other embodiments,
a SIM card 1328 is not utilized.
[0097] The mobile multi-function device 1300 also includes a user
input device 1308 that allows a user of the mobile multi-function
device 1300 to interact with the mobile multi-function device 1300.
For example, the user input device 1308 can take a variety of
forms, such as a button, keypad, dial, etc. Still further, the
mobile multi-function device 1300 includes a display 1310 (screen
display) that can be controlled by the processor 1302 to display
information to the user. A data bus 1311 can facilitate data
transfer between at least the file system 1304, the cache 1306, the
processor 1302, and the CODEC 1312.
[0098] In one embodiment, the mobile multi-function device 1300
serves to store a plurality of media items (e.g., songs, movies,
etc.) in the file system 1304. When a user desires to have the
mobile multi-function device play a particular media item, a list
of available media items is displayed on the display 1310. Then,
using the user input device 1308, a user can select one of the
available media items. The processor 1302, upon receiving a
selection of a particular media item, supplies the media data
(e.g., audio file) for the particular media item to a coder/decoder
(CODEC) 1312. The CODEC 1312 then produces analog output signals
for a speaker 1314. The speaker 1314 can be a speaker internal to
the mobile multi-function device 1300 or external to the mobile
multi-function device 1300. For example, headphones or earphones
that connect to the mobile multi-function device 1300 would be
considered an external speaker.
[0099] The mobile multi-function device 1300 also includes a bus
interface 1316 that couples to a data link 1318. The data link 1318
allows the mobile multi-function device 1300 to couple to a host
device (e.g., host computer or power source). The data link 1318
can also provide power to the mobile multi-function device
1300.
[0100] Still further, the mobile multi-function device 1330 can
include a location determining module 1330. The location
determining module 1330 can determine or assist in determining the
location of the mobile multi-function device 1300. As one example,
the location determining module 1330 can include at least a global
positioning system (GPS) receiver. In another embodiment, the
location determining module 1330 can include wireless communication
circuitry to determine or assist in the determination of the
location of the mobile multi-function device 1300. For example, the
location determining module 1330 can use, incorporate or integrate
some or all of the transceiver 1326.
[0101] The digital media assets (i.e., digital media items) can
pertain to video items (e.g., video files or movies), audio items
(e.g., audio files or audio tracks, such as for songs (music),
podcasts or audiobooks), or image items (e.g., photos).
[0102] The various aspects, features, embodiments or
implementations of the invention described above can be used alone
or in various combinations.
[0103] The invention is preferably implemented by software,
hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The invention
can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer
readable medium. The computer readable medium is any data storage
device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a
computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium generally
include read-only memory and random-access memory. More specific
examples of computer readable medium are tangible and include Flash
memory, EEPROM memory, memory card, CD-ROM, DVD, hard drive,
magnetic tape, and optical data storage device. The computer
readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled
computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and
executed in a distributed fashion.
[0104] The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different
aspects, embodiments or implementations may, but need not, yield
one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of the
invention is that a mobile electronic device can be monitored so
that digital content relevant to its usage or location can be
automatically delivered (or made available) to the mobile
electronic device. Another advantage of the invention is that loyal
(i.e., repeat) patrons to establishments can be better understood
and rewarded for their patronage. Still another advantage of the
invention is that digital content can be dynamically provided or
made available to a mobile electronic device based on a current
location of the mobile electronic device and/or former locations of
the mobile electronic device.
[0105] The many features and advantages of the present invention
are apparent from the written description. Further, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, the invention should not be limited to the exact
construction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, all
suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as
falling within the scope of the invention.
* * * * *