U.S. patent application number 14/101208 was filed with the patent office on 2014-04-10 for insurance visibility.
The applicant listed for this patent is Himanshu S. Amin, Brian Asquith, Fred Collopy, Ronald Charles Krosky, Craig Allen Nard, Gustavo Arnaldo Narvaez, David Noonan, Seyed Vahid Sharifi Takieh, Gregory Turocy. Invention is credited to Himanshu S. Amin, Brian Asquith, Fred Collopy, Ronald Charles Krosky, Craig Allen Nard, Gustavo Arnaldo Narvaez, David Noonan, Seyed Vahid Sharifi Takieh, Gregory Turocy.
Application Number | 20140100892 14/101208 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42197144 |
Filed Date | 2014-04-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140100892 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Collopy; Fred ; et
al. |
April 10, 2014 |
INSURANCE VISIBILITY
Abstract
Dynamic insurance rate adjustments are communicated to a vehicle
operator in order to allow the vehicle operator to adjust various
parameters before an actual change to an insurance rate is
communicated to a service provider or trusted third party. The
various parameters can be external parameters and/or internal
parameters and further can include historical information, current
information, and/or predicted information. Communicating the
insurance rate adjustments provides for insurance visibility for
both the operator and passengers of the vehicle. The insurance rate
adjustment is communicated though a device located within a vehicle
to enable perception by a vehicle occupant.
Inventors: |
Collopy; Fred; (Cleveland
Heights, OH) ; Nard; Craig Allen; (Shaker Heights,
OH) ; Amin; Himanshu S.; (Solon, OH) ; Turocy;
Gregory; (Moreland Hills, OH) ; Sharifi Takieh; Seyed
Vahid; (Broadview Heights, OH) ; Krosky; Ronald
Charles; (Lakewood, OH) ; Noonan; David;
(Webster Groves, MO) ; Narvaez; Gustavo Arnaldo;
(Solon, OH) ; Asquith; Brian; (Cleveland Heights,
OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Collopy; Fred
Nard; Craig Allen
Amin; Himanshu S.
Turocy; Gregory
Sharifi Takieh; Seyed Vahid
Krosky; Ronald Charles
Noonan; David
Narvaez; Gustavo Arnaldo
Asquith; Brian |
Cleveland Heights
Shaker Heights
Solon
Moreland Hills
Broadview Heights
Lakewood
Webster Groves
Solon
Cleveland Heights |
OH
OH
OH
OH
OH
OH
MO
OH
OH |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
42197144 |
Appl. No.: |
14/101208 |
Filed: |
December 9, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12612958 |
Nov 5, 2009 |
8620692 |
|
|
14101208 |
|
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|
|
61118400 |
Nov 26, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0273 20130101;
G06Q 40/08 20130101; G06Q 30/04 20130101; G06Q 30/06 20130101; G06Q
30/0251 20130101; G06Q 30/0265 20130101; G06Q 30/0201 20130101;
G06Q 30/0224 20130101; G06Q 30/0269 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/4 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 40/08 20120101
G06Q040/08 |
Claims
1. A method, comprising: determining, by a system comprising a
processor, a change to an insurance premium based on at least a
first parameter associated with a vehicle; outputting, by the
system, the change to the insurance premium to an operator of the
vehicle while the vehicle is being operated; receiving, by the
system, a response from the operator while the vehicle is being
operated, the response is related to the change to the insurance
premium; and determining, by the system, another change to the
insurance premium based at least in part on the response.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the outputting comprises
prompting the operator for information related to the change to the
insurance premium while the vehicle is being operated.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining the change to the
insurance premium comprises receiving at least the first parameter
that affects a base rate of insurance, wherein at least the first
parameter is associated with operation of the vehicle.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the outputting comprises
prompting the operator, while the vehicle is being operated, for
information related to the change to the insurance premium or at
least the first parameter.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the outputting comprises
rendering the change to the insurance premium on a device
associated with the operator, the device is removable from the
vehicle.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining the change to the
insurance premium comprises increasing a cost of the insurance
premium based on a determination that at least the first parameter
tends to increase an amount of insurance claims.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining the change to the
insurance premium comprises decreasing a cost of the insurance
premium based on a determination that at least the first parameter
tends to decrease an amount of insurance claims.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining another change to
the insurance premium based at least in part on the response
comprises gathering additional criteria over a determined period of
time.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprises receiving at least the
first parameter associated with the vehicle based on historical
information relate to a condition associated with a similar
vehicle.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprises: receiving an estimate
made with respect to historical data related to the vehicle;
determining a future driving condition based on the estimate; and
determining a further change to the insurance premium based at
least in part on the future driving condition.
11. A system, comprising: a processor; and a memory that stores
executable instructions that, when executed by the processor,
facilitate performance of operations, comprising: determining a
first change to an insurance premium based on at least a first
parameter associated with a vehicle; outputting the first change to
the insurance premium to an operator of the vehicle while the
vehicle is being operated; receiving a response from the operator
while the vehicle is being operated, the response is related to the
first change to the insurance premium; and determining a second
change to the insurance premium based at least in part on the
response.
12. The system of claim 11, the operations further comprise
prompting the operator for information related to the first change
to the insurance premium while the vehicle is being operated.
13. The system of claim 11, wherein the operations further comprise
prompting the operator, while the vehicle is being operated, for
information related to the first change to the insurance premium or
at least the first parameter.
14. The system of claim 11, wherein the operations further comprise
receiving additional criteria over a determined period of time
before the determining the second change to the insurance
premium.
15. The system of claim 11, wherein the operations further comprise
receiving at least the first parameter associated with the vehicle
based on historical information relate to a condition associated
with a similar vehicle.
16. The system of claim 11, wherein the operations further
comprise: determining a future driving condition based on an
estimate made with respect to historical data related to the
vehicle; and determining a third change to the insurance premium
based at least in part on the future driving condition.
17. A computer-readable storage device comprising executable
instructions that, in response to execution, cause a system
comprising a processor to perform operations, comprising:
determining a first change to an insurance premium based on at
least a first parameter associated with a vehicle; outputting the
first change to the insurance premium to an operator of the vehicle
while the vehicle is being operated; prompting the operator for
information related to the first change to the insurance premium or
at least the first parameter while the vehicle is being operated;
receiving a response from the operator while the vehicle is being
operated, the response is related to the first change to the
insurance premium or at least the first parameter; and determining
a second change to the insurance premium based at least in part on
the response.
18. The computer-readable storage device of claim 17, wherein the
operations further comprise receiving additional criteria over a
determined period of time before the determining the second change
to the insurance premium.
19. The computer-readable storage device of claim 17, wherein the
operations further comprise receiving at least the first parameter
associated with the vehicle based on historical information relate
to a condition associated with a similar vehicle.
20. The computer-readable storage device of claim 17, wherein the
operations further comprise: determining a future driving condition
based on an estimate made with respect to historical data related
to the vehicle; and determining a third change to the insurance
premium based at least in part on the future driving condition.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/612,958 filed Nov. 5, 2009, and entitled
"INSURANCE VISIBILITY", which claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/118,400, filed on Nov. 26,
2008, entitled "Insurance Optimizer and Real Time Analytics". The
entireties of the aforementioned applications are expressly
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Insurance coverage is a commodity that many people purchase
for peace of mind and/or because local laws require such coverage.
Thus, most people might consider insurance as something that is
necessary and, at times, undesirable due to insurance premiums.
Additionally, at least some consumers are not loyal to a particular
insurance provider and might purchase insurance from a lowest cost
provider in an attempt to save money. These cost conscious
consumers might shop around for insurance to find lower rates,
which such consumers can obtain in exchange for a reduction in the
coverage amount for each occurrence and/or the type of coverage
purchased. Further, it is almost impossible to determine (without
specifically asking the question) whether an individual has
insurance and the name of the insurance carrier. Thus, if a person
asks to be driven to another location, that person might be in a
vehicle that does not have insurance coverage, which can result in
excessive expenses if an accident occurs during the trip.
Therefore, as a passenger in a vehicle (or as another person that
can suffer loss (e.g., bodily damage, property damage, and so
forth) caused by the driver), it can be less than obvious whether
damages resulting from an accident will be, at least partially,
covered by insurance.
[0003] The automobile insurance industry has been exploring ways in
which it can take advantage of information about a vehicle's
location, conditions of operation, and other factors, to assess
risk dynamically and thereby adjust insurance rates. Some devices
collect and integrate information related to a vehicle. These
devices are used as black boxes that operate outside the user's
visual awareness or that provide feedback through web pages or
Global Positioning System (GPS) displays. This black box approach
renders the service invisible to the insurance consumer and/or is
only communicated to the consumer when bills are generated or when
the consumer accesses a particular web page for the information.
Further, if feedback is provided through web pages or GPS displays,
there is additional complexity that adds a new set of controls to
the various controls the driver must already contend with, thereby
relegating the use of feedback to times when the operator is not
actually driving in order to not increase the prospects of driver
distraction.
SUMMARY
[0004] The following presents a simplified summary in order to
provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed
examples. This summary is not an extensive overview and is intended
to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the
scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts in a
simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that
is presented later.
[0005] In accordance with one or more examples and corresponding
disclosure thereof, various aspects are described in connection
with optimizing insurance from the perspective of both the
insurance provider and the insurance purchaser. According to an
aspect, real time (or near real time) analytics is utilized to
selectively provide information related to a potential adjustment
to insurance premiums, coverage, and other parameters.
[0006] An aspect relates to summarizing information related to
insurance and rendering the information in the form of an
attractive and simple device. The device can emit a soft glow
reflecting the safety, cost, environmental impact, or other
factors, of a current driving situation. In accordance with some
aspects, the device can provide the indications of the current
driving situation in any perceivable format, including visual
format and audio format. Further, the disclosed aspects have the
added benefit of making the insurance carrier visible to the driver
and passengers of the vehicle. The disclosed aspects can further
relate to a vehicle operator complying with requirements of a
single insurance company to maintain current insurance rates and/or
to lower (or in some cases increase) an insurance rate (e.g., a
surcharge or a discount is applied to a base rate).
[0007] An aspect relates to a system for enabling visibility of
insurance. The system includes a monitoring component that gathers
one or more parameters that can have an influence on a base rate of
insurance. The system also includes an adjustment component that
selectively modifies the base rate of insurance to produce a
modified insurance cost (e.g., in the form of a surcharge, or
discount) as a function of the one or more parameters. Further,
system includes a render component that dynamically outputs the
surcharge or the discount to an operator of the vehicle while the
vehicle is in operation.
[0008] Another aspect relates to a method that facilitates
providing visibility of a cost of insurance. The method includes
gathering one or more parameters related to a vehicle covered by an
insurance policy and selectively modifying the cost of the
insurance policy as a function of the one or more parameters. The
method also includes presenting the modified cost of the insurance
policy to an operator of the vehicle.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect is a system that provides
insurance visibility. The system includes means for obtaining one
or more parameters associated with an insured vehicle and means for
utilizing the one or more parameters to modify an insurance cost of
the insured vehicle. The system also includes means for outputting
the modified insurance cost, a comparison between an original
insurance cost and the modified insurance cost, and the one or more
parameters to an operator of the insured vehicle while the insured
vehicle is in operation. In accordance with some aspects, system
includes means for engaging the operator of the insured vehicle in
a dialogue, associated with the modified insurance cost, wherein,
based on the dialogue, the means for utilizing the one or more
parameters to modify the insurance cost of the insured vehicle
applies a further modification to the insurance cost. According to
some aspects, the means for utilizing the one or more parameters to
modify the insurance cost of the insured vehicle increases the
insurance cost or decreases the insurance cost as a function of
whether the one or more parameters tend to increase or decrease an
amount of insurance claims.
[0010] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, one
or more examples comprise the features hereinafter fully described
and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following
description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain
illustrative aspects and are indicative of but a few of the various
ways in which the principles of the various aspects may be
employed. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent
from the following detailed description when considered in
conjunction with the drawings and the disclosed examples are
intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates an insurance visibility system, according
to an aspect.
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic representation of an
environment in which the disclosed aspects can be utilized.
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a system for actively involving an
insured with respect to automatic changes to an insurance premium
and/or coverage, in accordance with an aspect.
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an example device
utilized in an insurance visibility system, according to an
aspect.
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a method for providing insurance
visibility, according to an aspect.
[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates a method for involving an insured in the
process of determining insurance premium costs, in accordance with
an aspect.
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a method for selectively providing
insurance information to a service provider, in accordance with an
aspect.
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of a computer operable to
execute the disclosed architecture.
[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an exemplary
computing environment in accordance with the various aspects.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] Various aspects are now described with reference to the
drawings. In the following description, for purposes of
explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of one or more aspects. It may be
evident, however, that the various aspects may be practiced without
these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures
and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate
describing these aspects.
[0021] As used in this application, the terms "component",
"module", "system", and the like are intended to refer to a
computer-related entity, either hardware, a combination of hardware
and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a
component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on
a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of
execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration,
both an application running on a server and the server can be a
component. One or more components may reside within a process
and/or thread of execution and a component may be localized on one
computer and/or distributed between two or more computers.
[0022] Artificial intelligence based systems (e.g., explicitly
and/or implicitly trained classifiers) can be employed in
connection with performing inference and/or probabilistic
determinations and/or statistical-based determinations as in
accordance with one or more aspects as described hereinafter. As
used herein, the term "inference" refers generally to the process
of reasoning about or inferring states of the system, environment,
and/or user from a set of observations as captured through events,
sensors, and/or data. Inference can be employed to identify a
specific context or action, or can generate a probability
distribution over states, for example. The inference can be
probabilistic--that is, the computation of a probability
distribution over states of interest based on a consideration of
data and events. Inference can also refer to techniques employed
for composing higher-level events from a set of events and/or data.
Such inference results in the construction of new events or actions
from a set of observed events and/or stored event data, whether or
not the events are correlated in close temporal proximity, and
whether the events and data come from one or several event and data
sources. Various classification schemes and/or systems (e.g.,
support vector machines, neural networks, expert systems, Bayesian
belief networks, fuzzy logic, data fusion engines, and so forth)
can be employed in connection with performing automatic and/or
inferred action in connection with the disclosed aspects.
[0023] Various aspects will be presented in terms of systems that
may include a number of components, modules, and the like. It is to
be understood and appreciated that the various systems may include
additional components, modules, etc. and/or may not include all of
the components, modules, etc. discussed in connection with the
figures. A combination of these approaches may also be used. The
various aspects disclosed herein can be performed on electrical
devices including devices that utilize touch screen display
technologies and/or mouse-and-keyboard type interfaces. Examples of
such devices include computers (desktop and mobile), smart phones,
personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other electronic devices
both wired and wireless.
[0024] Additionally, in the subject description, the word
"exemplary" is used to mean serving as an example, instance, or
illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary"
is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous
over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is
intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion.
[0025] Referring initially to FIG. 1, illustrated is an insurance
visibility system 100, according to an aspect. It should be noted
that while various aspects presented herein are discussed with
reference to a car, the various aspects can be applied to other
vehicles including, but not to limited trucks, vans, motor homes,
busses, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, water vehicles, aircraft,
and so on. System 100 is configured to convert (vehicle) insurance
from a commodity to something that has visibility and associated
prestige. Insurance provider information and/or insurance rates can
be rendered to the driver and/or passengers through an interactive
display or through other means, such as audio (e.g., through
speakers installed in the car, over a cell phone, and so on).
[0026] In an example, a dashboard-mounted display can be provided
to output the name of the insurance coverage provider and/or base
rate of insurance (e.g., cost of insurance at the start of a trip).
As the vehicle is being operated, the base rate can be dynamically
modified such that a driver (and passenger(s)) can automatically
perceive the impact that one or more parameters have on the base
rate. The impact can be a positive impact (e.g., discount applied
for "good" behavior) or a negative impact (e.g., surcharge applied
due to dangerous behavior/conditions). The parameters can relate to
operating conditions, such as weather (e.g., rain, snow, icy road
conditions, and so on), road congestion, construction, and so
forth. Other parameters can relate to driver behavior (e.g.,
obeying traffic laws, speeding, tailgating, operation of a mobile
device while talking on a mobile telephone, and so on) and/or
location of the vehicle (e.g., parked in a garage, parked in an
area known for high car thefts/damage, traveling through a high (or
low) accident area, and so forth).
[0027] As the base rate of insurance is changed, the driver (and
others in the vehicle) can automatically see the changes. Thus, in
real-time (or near real-time) the driver can see that (while
speeding, for example) his average insurance premium can be
increased from eight cents a mile to thirty cents a mile (e.g., a
surcharge applied). As the driver slows down, the insurance premium
can automatically lower back to eight cents a mile (or a different
value or cost measurement). In this way, the driver might change
his behavior in order to have a lower premium (or for no surcharge
applied to the base rate). Further, in accordance with some
aspects, a discount can be obtained in exchange for allowing the
insurance provider (or a third party) to monitor parameters
associated with the vehicle.
[0028] The dynamic presentation of insurance coverage costs can
function as meter-based insurance rates, which is similar to
electricity modeling. The premise of electricity modeling is that
when consumers are asked whether they would like to be charged for
electricity based on their own (family) usage or based on the
average cost of the amount of electricity their neighbors are using
(e.g., statistical averaging), the consumer might select to be
charged based on their own usage. When then asked whether the
consumer would like to be charged based on their own driving
behavior or the behavior of similar drivers (e.g., age, location,
occupation, and so forth), the consumers might prefer to be charged
based on their own behavior (and realize that the structure for
current insurance rate charges are less than ideal). Thus, prestige
or other benefits can be associated with allowing an insurance
carrier (or other trusted third party) to gather information
automatically in exchange for potential lower premiums and/or other
benefits.
[0029] System 100 includes a monitoring component 102 that is
configured to gather one or more parameters 104 that can affect a
base rate 106 of insurance. One or more parameters 104 can be
driving behavior, operating conditions, location, or combinations
thereof. Further, the one or more parameters 104 can include an
intensity portion, a frequency portion, or combinations thereof.
Intensity portion and/or frequency portion can represent severity
and regularity of driving episodes (e.g., slamming on brakes,
gradual/sudden deceleration, velocity variances, and so forth).
[0030] The one or more parameters 104 can be gathered by monitoring
component 102 in a number of manners. For example, sensors or other
data gathering components can be operatively connected to the
vehicle to obtain both external and internal (to the vehicle)
operating conditions. Monitoring component 102 can selectively
interact with the sensors and/or other data gathering components to
obtain information that might have an influence on the base rate
106.
[0031] In another example, monitoring component 102 can interact
with other systems to obtain one or more parameters 104. For
example, monitoring component 102 can interact with an external
traffic reporting system (or database) and, based on the current
location of the vehicle in which system 100 is utilized,
information related to traffic congestion, construction, and other
factors of that particular location can be gathered by monitoring
component 102. For example, initially, a geographic location for
the vehicle can be determined by a global positioning system (GPS).
This geographic location can be matched with real-time weather
and/or road conditions for the determined location though a
wireless network, an Internet Protocol (IP) network, and so forth,
which can interact with a geographic maps server, a weather server,
or the like.
[0032] Also included in system 100 is an adjustment component 108
that is configured to selectively modify the base rate 106 to
provide a surcharge 110 or a discount 112. The surcharge 110 or
discount 112 (or, in some cases, no change to the base rate 106) is
communicated to a render component 114 that is configured to output
the surcharge 110 and/or the discount 112, which can be perceived
by an operator, passenger, vehicle occupant, and others.
[0033] Render component 114 can output surcharge 110, discount 112,
one or more parameters 104, or other information in any perceivable
format (e.g., visual, audible, and so forth). In accordance with
some aspects, render component 114 outputs surcharge 110 and/or
discount 112 in a visual format that illustrates the surcharge 110
or discount 112 as a bar chart, pie chart, or other chart, wherein
the type of chart is configurable by the vehicle operator/or other
user that has authorization to modify system 100. In accordance
with some aspects, render component 114 outputs the information
(e.g., surcharge 110 and/or discount 112) as a color scheme,
wherein the complex information is represented along a single color
dimension. Alternatively or additionally, relative brightness can
be used by color element 116 to convey information related to
insurance costs.
[0034] In accordance with some aspects, render component 114 can be
selectively removed from vehicle and/or other components of system
100. For example, render component 114 can be integrated, at least
in part, in a car's key fob, wherein the key fob can perform
multiple functions. For example, the key fob can remotely start a
vehicle. When the operator enters the vehicle, the key fob can be
placed in a location that allows viewing of the key fob while
operating the vehicle. As the vehicle is operated, the key fob can
output surcharge 110, discount 112, one or more parameters 104
and/or other information though a display or through other
properties of key fob (e.g., key fob constructed of translucent
material).
[0035] In another example, render component 114 can be associated
with a mobile device (e.g., smart phones or other device). The
wireless capacity of mobile device can be utilized to communicate
with other system 100 components. When an operator enters the
vehicle, the mobile device can be located where a display of the
mobile device can be perceived while the vehicle is in
operation.
[0036] According to another aspect, render component 114 outputs
information in an audible format. The audible format can be in the
form of a statement (e.g., "Based on your current speed, you can be
accessed a surcharge of ten percent.", "Since you have been driving
the correct speed limit for the past two hours, you can expect a
fifteen percent discount in your insurance base rate this
month.").
[0037] In accordance with some aspects, the audible format can be
in the form of a question (e.g., "Would you like to continue
driving erratically for an insurance surcharge of ten dollars per
week, bringing your total costs to xxx dollars per month?", "Since
you have been operating your vehicle in the proper manner, would
you like a rebate or would you like to apply your earned discount
to your current policy and extend that policy by one month?").
Thus, the operator is made aware of one or more factors that can
affect the cost of insurance and the operator's behavior (or other
factors) can be changed so that the cost of insurance is affected
in a positive manner for the operator.
[0038] According to some aspects, render component 114 can output
the surcharge 110 and/or the discount 112 in the form of an audible
signal (e.g., beep). The audible signal can be the same for both
the surcharge 110 and the discount 112. However, according to
various aspects, a different audible signal can be utilized
depending on whether a surcharge 110 should be applied or whether a
discount 112 should be applied. For example, surcharge 110 can have
a tone, frequency, and so forth, that is different from the tone,
frequency and so forth, utilized for the discount 112. In this
manner, the operator, who has learned the different audible signals
and/or configured the different audible signals, can comprehend the
surcharge 110 and/or discount 112 without distracting her eyes from
the road.
[0039] Further, in accordance with one or more aspects, the
information (e.g., surcharge 110, discount 112) provided by render
component 114 to the operator of the vehicle can be presented at a
frequency that is more often than the frequency at which the
information is supplied to an insurance provider and/or trusted
third party. In such a manner, an actual surcharge and/or discount
are not applied to the base rate at a near real-time rate, which
allows the operator to modify her behavior and/or other
parameters.
[0040] In accordance with some aspects, render component 114 can be
configured to represent complex information along a color
dimension. Render component 114 can be located in a driver's
viewing range, wherein the driver can perceive render component 114
while operating the vehicle. For example, render component 114 can
be placed on (or integral to) a vehicle dashboard in a manner that
does not significantly distract the driver. In accordance with some
aspects, render component 414 prominently displays a name of the
company providing the insurance coverage and/or other information
related to the insurance company (e.g., contact information).
[0041] Included in render component 114 can be a color element 116
that is configured to vary in color across a visual spectrum,
wherein a first end 118 of spectrum and a second end 120 of
spectrum are illustrated. Color element 116 can output at least one
color across the spectrum to indicate a current insurance cost
and/or a change to an insurance cost. A change in the distribution
of colors produced from first end 118 to second end 120 (and from
second end 120 to first end 118) is a function of the amount of
increase (or decrease) in an amount of insurance. In accordance
with some aspects, a decrease in the amount of insurance is
indicated by a color change from first end 118 to second end 120
and an increase in the cost of insurance is indicated by a color
change from second end 120 to first end 118.
[0042] In accordance with some aspects, a current cost of insurance
can be represented along the spectrum, such as a center point 122.
An increase (or decrease) can be represented by a color change,
wherein an increase can be represented by a color movement toward
first end 118 and a decrease can be represented by a color movement
toward second end 120 (or vice versa).
[0043] For example, as cost of insurance increases, the output by
color element 116 can progress across the spectrum from first end
118 to second end 120, wherein the progression across the spectrum
is a function of the amount of increase in the cost of insurance.
In another example, as a cost of insurance decreases, the output by
color element 116 can change in the direction of second end 120 to
first end 118.
[0044] In accordance with some aspects, color element 116 can
include Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) or other means for producing
light across a hue spectrum. The LEDs or other means should vary in
color across a spectrum (e.g., from red to blue, from yellow to
green, from a light shade of color to a dark shade of color, from a
dark shade of color to a light shade of color, and so forth).
[0045] According to some aspects, a color from a different spectrum
can be utilized to indicate situations when there is no information
available, not enough available information, and/or no connectivity
to a central network (e.g., insurer's network, trusted third
party's network). For example, while a vehicle is being driven
through rural areas, there might be limited or no wireless
reception, thus communication cannot be conducted with another
entity (e.g., insurer's network, trusted third party's network). In
this situation, a different color, such as blue, can be presented
to the user to indicate that information is still being gathered
and/or analyzed, but there is no information available for the
driver at the current time. In accordance with some aspects, the
color spectrum can indicate other parameters in addition to (or in
lieu of) changes in a cost of insurance. For example, the colors
can represent operating cost, environmental impact, how safely a
vehicle is being operated, and/or other factors that might be of
interest to the driver.
[0046] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic representation of an
environment in which the disclosed aspects can be utilized.
Included in environment is a system 200 that includes a vehicle 202
and an operator 204 (e.g., insurance purchaser, covered
individual). An operator 204 can purchase an insurance policy from
an insurance provider 206. As a condition of insurance (or for a
reduction in the cost of the insurance policy), operator 204 can
agree to monitoring by insurance provider 206 or by a trusted third
party 208. Insurance provider 206 and trusted third party 208 can
be a single entity (e.g., trusted third party 208 is a subsidiary
of insurance provider 206) or a separate entity (e.g., trusted
third party 208 gathers information for various entities, including
insurance provider 206).
[0047] Trusted third party 208 can gather information (or
parameters) related to vehicle 202, operator 204, and/or an
environment 210. Gathered information can be historical information
212, current information 214, and/or predicted information 216
(e.g., information that is predicted to occur in the future).
[0048] Historical information 212 can be gathered from information
provided by operator 204, an automobile dealership, maintenance
garages, oil change centers, or other entities that have serviced
vehicle 202 and/or from which products/services for vehicle 202
have been purchased. In accordance with some aspects, historical
information 212 is retrieved from a credit card company, a debit
card company, and the like (e.g., based on where purchases were
made or based on what was purchased an inference is made that the
purchase is for the vehicle 202). It should be understood that
prior to any information being gathered from any entity, the
operator 204 should specifically authorize the gathering of data.
Such historical information 212 can provide indications of the
safety of the vehicle based on services performed on the
vehicle.
[0049] Additionally or alternatively, historical information 212
can relate to conditions associated with similar vehicles. For
example, information related to problems associated with a vehicle
(e.g., similar make, model, and year) that might cause an accident
or other property damage can be gathered from others over time
(e.g., other individuals, based on other insurance claims,
statistics, or other data gathered by government agencies, and so
forth). In an example, if there is a defect found associated with a
particular type of vehicle, this defect, unless corrected, might
have an impact on the vehicle insurance. Thus, historical
information 212 can be utilized to determine whether an insurance
amount should be adjusted (e.g., a surcharge applied if not
corrected, no change to base rate if corrected, and so forth).
[0050] Current information 214 can be gathered in real-time (or
close to real-time rates) as vehicle 202 is operated or at other
times (e.g., when vehicle 202 is not in operation). Current
information 214 can be operating conditions and/or an operating
environment 210. For example, current information 214 can be the
number of passengers in the vehicle and the identity of those
passengers (e.g., friend, spouse, children, and so forth). Such
information can provide information about why a vehicle is being
operated in a particular manner. For example, a person might
operate a vehicle more recklessly when a friend is in the vehicle
as compared to how that vehicle is operated when a spouse or a
child is in the vehicle. Such information can be utilized, in
accordance with the disclosed aspects, to inform the operator of
specific behavior patterns and how those behavior patterns affect
insurance costs.
[0051] In accordance with some aspects, current information 214
relates to other vehicles/operators in environment 210 (e.g.,
traffic congestion levels, operating condition of other vehicles,
and so on). For example, sensors can be positioned such that the
presence of other vehicles is detected (e.g., through
vehicle-to-vehicle communication). In another example, insurance
visibility systems of adjacent vehicles (or vehicles with a certain
distance) can communicate their respective presence
information.
[0052] Predicted information 216 can be gathered from estimates
made by trusted third party 208. For example, historical driving
conditions of vehicle 202 can be analyzed and, based on this
historical data, predictions about future driving conditions can be
made. In another example, information related to where vehicle 202
has been historically parked overnight and/or during the day can be
gathered to determine whether vehicle 202 is parked in a
neighborhood that has high theft and/or vandalism rates.
[0053] As vehicle 202 is operated, trusted third party 208, can
analyze all information gathered and a determination can be made
related to data that should be provided to operator 204. In
accordance with some aspects, the data provided to the operator 204
is for information purposes only and an actual change in an
insurance premium might be based on information gathered over time
(e.g., one week, two months, a year, and so forth). Thus, although
dynamic insurance rates are automatically and at frequent intervals
provided to the insured, the actual rate charged might take into
account a longer period of time before a premium change is made. In
this manner, if desired, a vehicle operator can change certain
behaviors before there is an actual change in the amount charged
for insurance protection. In accordance with some aspects, a device
within the vehicle 202 can perform the computations and/or
determine any surcharge/discount locally.
[0054] FIG. 3 illustrates a system 300 for actively involving an
insured with respect to automatic changes to an insurance premium
and/or coverage, in accordance with an aspect. System 300 includes
a monitoring component 102 that is configured to monitor external
parameters 302 and internal parameters 304. The external parameters
302 are those parameters that are not within the control of the
insured. However, internal parameters 304 are those parameters for
which the insured has at least partial control.
[0055] Monitoring component 102 can provide information related to
the external parameters 302 and the internal parameters 304 to an
adjustment component 108. Further, adjustment component 108 can
obtain a base rate 106 of insurance. Base rate 106 can be retained
internally by adjustment component 108 (e.g., retained in a storage
medium) or can be dynamically obtained from an external source
(e.g., insurance provider, trusted third party, and so forth). As a
function of external parameters 302, internal parameters 304,
and/or base rate 106, adjustment component 108 selectively produces
a surcharge 110, a discount 112, or makes "no change" to base rate
106. In accordance with some aspects, adjustment component 108
applies a discount if the one or more parameters 302, 304 tends to
decreases a number of insurance claims or applies a surcharge if
the one or more parameters 302, 304 tends to increase the number of
insurance claims.
[0056] Adjustment component 108 provides the surcharge 110, the
discount 112, or an indication of "no change" to render component
114 that outputs the surcharge 110, the discount 112, or the
indication of "no change" in a perceivable format. In accordance
with some aspects, render component 114 is located within the
vehicle to enable perception by a vehicle occupant. For example,
render component 114 outputs a visual representation of the
surcharge 110, the discount 112, or the indication of no change. In
another example, render component 114 outputs an audible
representation of the surcharge 110, the discount 112, or the
indication of no change. In accordance with some aspects, render
component 114 outputs additional information, such as the original
insurance cost, the parameters utilized to provide the comparison,
and so forth.
[0057] System 300 also includes an interface component 306 that
engages a user (e.g., an operator of vehicle) in an interchange
related to the surcharge 110, the discount 112, or the indication
of "no change". For example, render component 114 can output one or
more parameters considered by adjustment component 108 and the
adjustment (e.g., surcharge 110, discount 112, indication of no
changes) that might be made to an insurance cost. The user can
interact with interface component 306 by adjusting her behavior
(e.g., reduce speed so that she is traveling at a safer rate of
speed (or at the speed limit), stop talking on her cell phone, no
longer following the car in front of her too closely (e.g., as
determined by breaking pattern and/or sensing equipment, and so
forth)). In another example, the user can verbally interact with
system 300, such as by replying negatively or positively to
questions provided though interface component 306.
[0058] In another example, interface component 306 can be
configured to receive a response from the operator of the vehicle
based on information presented to the operator. This response can
be utilized to further modify the cost of the insurance policy.
[0059] In accordance with some aspects, the vehicle operator can
selectively enable or disable system 300. For example, system 300
might be disabled (e.g., no data collected) if the vehicle is going
to be operated by another individual. In another example, for
various reasons, monitoring might not be desired (e.g., operator is
late for an appointment and will be driving aggressively). In
accordance with some aspects, if system 300 is disabled for a
specified period of time (e.g., more than two consecutive days), a
surcharge 110 might automatically be applied (e.g., an assumption
is made that the insurance purchaser no longer would like a
discount for utilization of the monitoring service).
[0060] Interface component 306 can provide a graphical user
interface (GUI), a command line interface, a speech interface,
Natural Language text interface, and the like. For example, a GUI
can be rendered that provides a user with a region or means to
load, import, select, read, etc. information (e.g., surcharge 110,
discount 112, external parameters 302, internal parameters 304, or
other information), and can include a region to present the results
of such. These regions can comprise known text and/or graphic
regions comprising dialogue boxes, static controls,
drop-down-menus, list boxes, pop-up menus, as edit controls, combo
boxes, radio buttons, check boxes, push buttons, and graphic boxes.
In addition, utilities to facilitate the information conveyance
such as vertical and/or horizontal scroll bars for navigation and
toolbar buttons to determine whether a region will be viewable can
be employed. For example, the user can interact with interface
component 306 by entering the information into an edit control.
[0061] The user can also interact with the regions to select and
provide information through various devices such as a mouse, a
roller ball, a keypad, a keyboard, a pen, gestures captured with a
camera, and/or voice activation, for example. Typically, a
mechanism such as a push button or the enter key on the keyboard
can be employed subsequent to entering the information in order to
initiate information conveyance. However, it is to be appreciated
that the disclosed aspects are not so limited. For example, merely
highlighting a check box can initiate information conveyance. In
another example, a command line interface can be employed. For
example, the command line interface can prompt the user for
information by providing a text message, producing an audio tone,
or the like. The user can then provide suitable information, such
as alphanumeric input corresponding to an option provided in the
interface prompt or an answer to a question posed in the prompt. It
is to be appreciated that the command line interface can be
employed in connection with a GUI and/or API. In addition, the
command line interface can be employed in connection with hardware
(e.g., video cards) and/or displays (e.g., black and white, and
EGA) with limited graphic support, and/or low bandwidth
communication channels.
[0062] In accordance with some aspects, system 300 includes a
notification component 308 that is configured to provide the
gathered internal parameters 302, the gathered external parameters
304, the surcharge 110, the discount 112, details related to an
interaction with a user, or combinations thereof, to a service
provider (e.g., insurance provider, trusted third party, and so
on). The information can be conveyed by notification component 308
though various wireless communications technologies.
[0063] The information sent by notification component 308 can be
conveyed to service provider at different intervals, which can be
predefined or based on other factors. For example, information
might be gathered over days or weeks and the cumulative information
sent to service provider (e.g., as specified in a negotiated
agreement). In accordance with some aspects, information might be
sent to service provider based upon an incident occurring (e.g.,
detection of an accident, detection of vehicle being
stolen/unauthorized use, and so on). According to some aspects,
notification component 308 conveys the information to the service
provider of the trusted third party less often than render
component 114 dynamically outputs the surcharge 110, the discount
112, or the no change indication to the operator of the
vehicle.
[0064] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an example device
400 utilized in an insurance visibility system, according to an
aspect. As previously discussed, an insurance visibility system can
include a render component that is located within the vehicle to
enable perception by a vehicle occupant. The render component can
be placed on (or integral to) a vehicle dashboard in a manner that
does not significantly distract the driver. In accordance with an
aspect, the render component can be a device that has dual
functionality. For example, illustrated is an example device 400
that can operate as a key (e.g., a key fob) and also can operate as
a display for an insurance visibility system. Although device 400
is illustrated as rectangular, other geometric shapes can be
utilized in accordance with the disclosed aspects.
[0065] Device 400 includes wireless functionality 402 that allows
device 400 to communicate with vehicle controls, an insurance
provider, and/or a trusted third party. For example, wireless
functionality 402 can be utilized to allow a vehicle operator to
select one or more options associated with the vehicle. These
options are represented by ovals 404, 406, and 408. In an example,
the options can be to lock and/or unlock doors of a vehicle, open a
trunk, start the vehicle remotely, and/or other options that are
desired to be controlled remote from the vehicle. Electronic
functionality (e.g., chip set) is represented at 410. A battery 412
or another type of power source can also be associated with device
400.
[0066] In accordance with an aspect, device 400 can include a
display 414 that is configured to output visual information to the
operator. In accordance with some aspects, display 414 can include
a colored LED array 416 that represents information related to
increases, decreases, or no change to the cost of insurance.
Colored LED array 416 can vary in color across a visual spectrum.
According to some aspects, device 400 is constructed of translucent
material that can provide the colored LED array 416 on the entire
device 400 (e.g., there is no display 414, instead, at least a
subportion of the translucent material is able to present the
information in a visual manner.
[0067] According to some aspects, device 400 includes a means for
attaching device to a dashboard (or other location) in a vehicle.
For example, a strip of material, such as a hook and loop fastener
(e.g., Velcro.RTM. or Velcro.RTM.-like material), hook tape, loop
tape, or the like can be attached to a backside (or other portion)
of device 400, wherein the material can connect with another
material (of the same type or a different type) located on the
dashboard (or other location). In another example, device 400 can
include a clip that selectively engages with a mating portion
associated with vehicle. However, it should be understood that
these are merely examples and other means for attaching device 400
to a portion of vehicle wherein a vehicle operator can perceive
device 400 can be utilized. In accordance with some aspects, the
operator might simply place the device 400 on the passenger seat,
on the dashboard, or in another location where the user is able to
perceive any color changes.
[0068] In view of exemplary systems shown and described above,
methodologies that may be implemented in accordance with the
disclosed subject matter, will be better appreciated with reference
to various flow charts. While, for purposes of simplicity of
explanation, methodologies are shown and described as a series of
blocks, it is to be understood and appreciated that the claimed
subject matter is not limited by the number or order of blocks, as
some blocks may occur in different orders and/or at substantially
the same time with other blocks from what is depicted and described
herein. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks may be required to
implement methodologies described herein. It is to be appreciated
that functionality associated with blocks may be implemented by
software, hardware, a combination thereof or any other suitable
means (e.g. device, system, process, component).
[0069] Additionally, it should be further appreciated that
methodologies disclosed throughout this specification are capable
of being stored on an article of manufacture to facilitate
transporting and transferring such methodologies to various
devices. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate
that a methodology could alternatively be represented as a series
of interrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram.
[0070] FIG. 5 illustrates a method 500 for providing insurance
visibility, according to an aspect. Method 500 is configured to
optimize insurance from the perspective of both the insurance
provider and the insurance purchaser. According to an aspect,
method 500 can utilize real time analytics to selectively adjust
insurance premiums, coverage, and other parameters or to provide an
indication of changes that might be made if one or more parameters
are not changed.
[0071] Method 500 starts, at 502, when parameters that can affect
the cost of insurance are gathered. The gathered parameters can be
parameters that are external to a vehicle, which might be
parameters that are not controlled by the vehicle operator.
External parameters include environmental conditions, such as
weather conditions (e.g., thunderstorm, snowstorm, whether the
vehicle is being driven into the sun (which can impair the
visibility of the vehicle operator), and so forth). Other external
parameters include operating conditions, which can include road
conditions (e.g., icy road conditions, winding road, downhill grade
of road, potholes, other hazardous driving conditions, and so
forth).
[0072] Parameters gathered, at 502, can include parameters that are
internal to a vehicle. These internal parameters can include
internal operating conditions such as whether there are passengers
in the vehicle, whether the operator is engaged in conversation
(e.g., with passengers or though interaction with a mobile device
(e.g., cellular telephone)), whether the driver and/or passengers
are wearing safety belts, and so on.
[0073] As a function of one or more gathered parameters, at 504,
the insurance cost is selectively modified (e.g., a surcharge is
applied, a discount is applied). Modifying the cost of the
insurance cost (e.g., insurance policy) comprises applying a
discount if the one or more parameters tend to decrease a number of
insurance claims or applying a surcharge if the one or more
parameters tend to increase a number of insurance claims.
[0074] The modified insurance cost is presented to the user, at
506, in any perceivable format. The presentation to the user, at
506, can also summarize the information related to insurance, which
can include the parameters utilized to make the determination,
whether to increase or decrease a base rate, and so on. Further,
the presentation can include rendering the information in the form
of an attractive and simple device. For example, the device can
emit a soft glow reflecting the safety, cost, environmental impact,
or other factors, of a current driving situation. In another
example, the device can output an audible indication of whether
there will be an increase or a decrease in a base rate based on
current conditions. Further, the presentation to the user (and
others, such as passengers) can allow the insurance carrier to be
visible to the driver and passengers of the vehicle. For example,
an audible or visual presentation can include the name (and phone
number) of the insurance provider and/or an advertisement for the
insurance provider (or for other advertisers). In accordance with
some aspects, the modified insurance cost is presented as a color
element that varies in color across a spectrum to represent the
surcharge or the discount.
[0075] FIG. 6 illustrates a method 600 for involving an insured in
the process of determining insurance premium costs, in accordance
with an aspect. At 602, a change to an insurance premium and/or
coverage is determined. The change can include selectively creating
a modified cost of an insurance policy as a function of one or more
gathered parameters. The change is output to a user, at 604, in any
perceivable format. At 606, the user is prompted for information.
Prompting the user (e.g., operator of the vehicle) for information
can be related to the modified cost of the insurance policy, the
one or more parameters, or combinations thereof. Method 600 can
also include receiving a response from the operator of the vehicle,
at 608.
[0076] For example, the output can include a potential change
(e.g., surcharge applied, discount applied) to the cost of
insurance and the parameters taken into account for this potential
change. Further, the output can include a prompt such as, "Would
you like this change reported to your insurance provider?", wherein
the user can respond positively or negatively. In accordance with
some aspects, the user can request that further data be accumulated
before the change is reported to the service provider.
[0077] In accordance with some aspects, the user can provide
additional information that can be taken into account when
adjustments are made to the cost of insurance. For example, if a
parameter gathered is incorrect, the user can provide corrected
information.
[0078] Method 600 continues, at 610, with utilizing the response to
further modify the cost of the insurance policy. This modification
can include gathering additional criteria. The additional criteria
can be external parameters, internal parameters, historical
information, current information, and/or predicted information.
Further, the additional criteria can be gathered over a period of
time to determine whether a further adjustment to the cost of
insurance should be made. Gathering such data over time can provide
a more accurate reflection of the true cost of insurance. It should
be noted that method 600 can continue, at 602, continuously such
that any number of criteria or parameters can be gathered over
time.
[0079] FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 for selectively providing
insurance information to a service provider, in accordance with an
aspect. At 702, data is gathered. The gathered data can include
external parameters and/or internal parameters. Further, the
gathered data can be historical information, current information,
and/or predicted information. The gathering of data can be over a
period of hours, days, weeks, and so forth. Further, data gathering
can be continuous, at predefined intervals, or at random intervals.
In accordance with some aspects, data can be gathered while a
vehicle is in operation and at other times (e.g., at two a.m. to
determine where the vehicle is parked overnight).
[0080] A change to an insurance premium and/or an insurance
coverage is prepared, at 704. The change is based on one or more of
the gathered data, wherein each item of gathered data can have a
different weight assigned. For example, data gathered related to
weather conditions might be given less weight than data gathered
related to user distractions (e.g., passengers, use of a mobile
device while vehicle is in operation, and so forth). In another
example, excessive speed might be assigned a higher weight than
data related to safety performance of the vehicle. As such, data
with a higher weight can be given more consideration than data with
a lower weight (e.g., data assigned a higher weight can have a
greater impact on the cost of insurance). Thus, if the user is
traveling at (or below) the speed limit and speed is assigned a
greater weight, then the safe speed will tend to decrease (or
remain constant) the cost of insurance.
[0081] A user is notified of the change, at 706. The notification
can be in any perceivable format. In an example, the notification
is provided as a dashboard-mounted display. In another example,
presenting the change can include displaying the modified cost of
the insurance policy in a dashboard-mounted display and/or a
heads-up display.
[0082] A service provider is notified of the change, at 708. At
substantially the same time as notifying the service provider (or
trusted third party) of the change, parameters taken into
consideration (and associated weight) can also be provided. In such
a manner, the service provider (or third party) can selectively
further modify the cost of insurance, which can be communicated to
the user though the vehicle display or through other means.
[0083] The service provider (or third party) might be provided the
change information less often than the insurance cost change
information is provided to the user. For example, the user can be
provided the insurance cost change information dynamically and
almost instantaneously with detection of one or more parameters
that can influence the insurance cost. However, the insurance
provider (or third party) might only be notified of the change
after a specified interval (or based on other intervals). For
example, insurance cost changes might be accumulated over a period
of time (e.g., two weeks) and an average of the insurance cost
changes might be supplied to insurance provider. In such a manner,
the user has time to adjust parameters that tend to increase (or
decrease) the cost of insurance, which allows the user to have more
control over the cost of insurance.
[0084] Referring now to FIG. 8, there is illustrated a block
diagram of a computer operable to execute the disclosed
architecture. In order to provide additional context for various
aspects disclosed herein, FIG. 8 and the following discussion are
intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable
computing environment 800 in which the various aspects can be
implemented. While the one or more aspects have been described
above in the general context of computer-executable instructions
that may run on one or more computers, those skilled in the art
will recognize that the various aspects also can be implemented in
combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of
hardware and software.
[0085] Generally, program modules include routines, programs,
components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or
implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled
in the art will appreciate that the inventive methods can be
practiced with other computer system configurations, including
single-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, minicomputers,
mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held
computing devices, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer
electronics, and the like, each of which can be operatively coupled
to one or more associated devices.
[0086] The illustrated aspects may also be practiced in distributed
computing environments where certain tasks are performed by remote
processing devices that are linked through a communications
network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules
can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
[0087] A computer typically includes a variety of computer readable
media. Computer readable media can be any available media that can
be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and
nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of
example, and not limitation, computer-readable media can comprise
computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage
media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and
non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for
storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data
structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media
includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or
other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital video disk (DVD) or other
optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic
disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium
which can be used to store the desired information and which can be
accessed by the computer.
[0088] Communication media typically embodies computer-readable
instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a
modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport
mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. The term
"modulated data signal" means a signal that has one or more of its
characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode
information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation,
communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or
direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF,
infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of the any of the
above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable
media.
[0089] With reference again to FIG. 8, the exemplary environment
800 for implementing various aspects includes a computer 802, the
computer 802 including a processing unit 804, a system memory 806
and a system bus 808. The system bus 808 couples system components
including, but not limited to, the system memory 806 to the
processing unit 804. The processing unit 804 can be any of various
commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors and other
multi-processor architectures may also be employed as the
processing unit 804.
[0090] The system bus 808 can be any of several types of bus
structure that may further interconnect to a memory bus (with or
without a memory controller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus
using any of a variety of commercially available bus architectures.
The system memory 806 includes read-only memory (ROM) 810 and
random access memory (RAM) 812. A RAM memory medium can function as
a data storage medium for buffering of collected data, so that data
is not lost when the system bus is in use by other functions. A
basic input/output system (BIOS) is stored in a non-volatile memory
810 such as ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic
routines that help to transfer information between elements within
the computer 802, such as during start-up. The RAM 812 can also
include a high-speed RAM such as static RAM for caching data.
[0091] The computer 802 further includes an internal hard disk
drive (HDD) 814 (e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal hard disk drive
814 may also be configured for external use in a suitable chassis
(not shown), a magnetic floppy disk drive (FDD) 816, (e.g., to read
from or write to a removable diskette 818) and an optical disk
drive 820, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk 822 or, to read from or
write to other high capacity optical media such as the DVD). The
hard disk drive 814, magnetic disk drive 816 and optical disk drive
820 can be connected to the system bus 808 by a hard disk drive
interface 824, a magnetic disk drive interface 826 and an optical
drive interface 828, respectively. The interface 824 for external
drive implementations includes at least one or both of Universal
Serial Bus (USB) and IEEE 1394 interface technologies. Other
external drive connection technologies are within contemplation of
the one or more aspects.
[0092] The drives and their associated computer-readable media
provide nonvolatile storage of data, data structures,
computer-executable instructions, and so forth. For the computer
802, the drives and media accommodate the storage of any data in a
suitable digital format. Although the description of
computer-readable media above refers to a HDD, a removable magnetic
diskette, and a removable optical media such as a CD or DVD, it
should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other types
of media which are readable by a computer, such as zip drives,
magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, cartridges, and the like,
may also be used in the exemplary operating environment, and
further, that any such media may contain computer-executable
instructions for performing the methods disclosed herein.
[0093] A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and
RAM 812, including an operating system 830, one or more application
programs 832, other program modules 834 and program data 836. All
or portions of the operating system, applications, modules, and/or
data can also be cached in the RAM 812. It is appreciated that the
various aspects can be implemented with various commercially
available operating systems or combinations of operating
systems.
[0094] A user can enter commands and information into the computer
802 through one or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a
keyboard 838 and a pointing device, such as a mouse 840. Other
input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, an IR remote
control, a joystick, a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen, or the
like. These and other input devices are often connected to the
processing unit 804 through an input device interface 842 that is
coupled to the system bus 808, but can be connected by other
interfaces, such as a parallel port, an IEEE 1394 serial port, a
game port, a USB port, an IR interface, etc.
[0095] A monitor 844 or other type of display device is also
connected to the system bus 808 through an interface, such as a
video adapter 846. In addition to the monitor 844, a computer
typically includes other peripheral output devices (not shown),
such as speakers, printers, etc.
[0096] The computer 802 may operate in a networked environment
using logical connections through wired and/or wireless
communications to one or more remote computers, such as a remote
computer(s) 848. The remote computer(s) 848 can be a workstation, a
server computer, a router, a personal computer, portable computer,
microprocessor-based entertainment appliance, a peer device or
other common network node, and typically includes many or all of
the elements described relative to the computer 802, although, for
purposes of brevity, only a memory/storage device 850 is
illustrated. The logical connections depicted include
wired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN) 852
and/or larger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN) 854. Such
LAN and WAN networking environments are commonplace in offices and
companies, and facilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such
as intranets, all of which may connect to a global communications
network, e.g., the Internet.
[0097] When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 802
is connected to the local network 852 through a wired and/or
wireless communication network interface or adapter 856. The
adaptor 856 may facilitate wired or wireless communication to the
LAN 852, which may also include a wireless access point disposed
thereon for communicating with the wireless adaptor 856.
[0098] When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 802
can include a modem 858, or is connected to a communications server
on the WAN 854, or has other means for establishing communications
over the WAN 854, such as by way of the Internet. The modem 858,
which can be internal or external and a wired or wireless device,
is connected to the system bus 808 through the serial port
interface 842. In a networked environment, program modules depicted
relative to the computer 802, or portions thereof, can be stored in
the remote memory/storage device 850. It will be appreciated that
the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of
establishing a communications link between the computers can be
used.
[0099] The computer 802 is operable to communicate with any
wireless devices or entities operatively disposed in wireless
communication, e.g., a printer, scanner, desktop and/or portable
computer, portable data assistant, communications satellite, any
piece of equipment or location associated with a wirelessly
detectable tag (e.g., a kiosk, news stand), and telephone. This
includes at least Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.TM. wireless technologies.
Thus, the communication can be a predefined structure as with a
conventional network or simply an ad hoc communication between at
least two devices.
[0100] Wi-Fi, or Wireless Fidelity, allows connection to the
Internet from home, in a hotel room, or at work, without wires.
Wi-Fi is a wireless technology similar to that used in a cell phone
that enables such devices, e.g., computers, to send and receive
data indoors and out; anywhere within the range of a base station.
Wi-Fi networks use radio technologies called IEEE 802.11(a, b, g,
etc.) to provide secure, reliable, fast wireless connectivity. A
Wi-Fi network can be used to connect computers to each other, to
the Internet, and to wired networks (which use IEEE 802.3 or
Ethernet). Wi-Fi networks operate in the unlicensed 2.4 and 5 GHz
radio bands, at an 11 Mbps (802.11a) or 54 Mbps (802.11b) data
rate, for example, or with products that contain both bands (dual
band), so the networks can provide real-world performance similar
to the basic 10BaseT wired Ethernet networks used in many
offices.
[0101] Referring now to FIG. 9, there is illustrated a schematic
block diagram of an exemplary computing environment or system 900
in accordance with the various aspects. The system 900 includes one
or more client(s) 902. The client(s) 902 can be hardware and/or
software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The
client(s) 902 can house cookie(s) and/or associated contextual
information by employing the various aspects, for example.
[0102] The system 900 also includes one or more server(s) 904. The
server(s) 904 can also be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads,
processes, computing devices). The servers 904 can house threads to
perform transformations by employing the various aspects, for
example. One possible communication between a client 902 and a
server 904 can be in the form of a data packet adapted to be
transmitted between two or more computer processes. The data packet
may include a cookie and/or associated contextual information, for
example. The system 900 includes a communication framework 906
(e.g., a global communication network such as the Internet) that
can be employed to facilitate communications between the client(s)
902 and the server(s) 904.
[0103] Communications can be facilitated through a wired (including
optical fiber) and/or wireless technology. The client(s) 902 are
operatively connected to one or more client data store(s) 908 that
can be employed to store information local to the client(s) 902
(e.g., cookie(s) and/or associated contextual information).
Similarly, the server(s) 904 are operatively connected to one or
more server data store(s) 910 that can be employed to store
information local to the servers 904.
[0104] What has been described above includes examples of the
various aspects. It is, of course, not possible to describe every
conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes
of describing the various aspects, but one of ordinary skill in the
art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations
are possible. Accordingly, the subject specification intended to
embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations.
[0105] In particular and in regard to the various functions
performed by the above described components, devices, circuits,
systems and the like, the terms (including a reference to a
"means") used to describe such components are intended to
correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which
performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., a
functional equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to
the disclosed structure, which performs the function in the herein
illustrated exemplary aspects. In this regard, it will also be
recognized that the various aspects include a system as well as a
computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions
for performing the acts and/or events of the various methods.
[0106] In addition, while a particular feature may have been
disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such
feature may be combined with one or more other features of the
other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any
given or particular application. To the extent that the terms
"includes," and "including" and variants thereof are used in either
the detailed description or the claims, these terms are intended to
be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising."
[0107] The term "or" as used in either the detailed description or
the claims is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an
exclusive "or". That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from
the context, the phrase "X employs A or B" is intended to mean any
of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, the phrase "X
employs A or B" is satisfied by any of the following instances: X
employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B. In addition, the
articles "a" and "an" as used in this application and the appended
claims should generally be construed to mean "one or more" unless
specified otherwise or clear from the context to be directed to a
singular form.
[0108] Furthermore, the one or more aspects may be implemented as a
method, apparatus, or article of manufacture using standard
programming and/or engineering techniques to produce software,
firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof to control a
computer to implement the disclosed aspects. The term "article of
manufacture" (or alternatively, "computer program product") as used
herein is intended to encompass a computer program accessible from
any computer-readable device, carrier, or media. For example,
computer readable media can include but are not limited to magnetic
storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips . .
. ), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk
(DVD) . . . ), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., card,
stick). Additionally it should be appreciated that a carrier wave
can be employed to carry computer-readable electronic data such as
those used in transmitting and receiving electronic mail or in
accessing a network such as the Internet or a local area network
(LAN). Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize many
modifications may be made to this configuration without departing
from the scope of the disclosed aspects.
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