U.S. patent application number 14/491512 was filed with the patent office on 2015-03-26 for electronic system and method for facilitating sound media and electronic commerce by selectively utilizing one or more song clips.
The applicant listed for this patent is Megan H. Halt. Invention is credited to Megan H. Halt.
Application Number | 20150088848 14/491512 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52691919 |
Filed Date | 2015-03-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150088848 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Halt; Megan H. |
March 26, 2015 |
ELECTRONIC SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING SOUND MEDIA AND
ELECTRONIC COMMERCE BY SELECTIVELY UTILIZING ONE OR MORE SONG
CLIPS
Abstract
A system and method permit users to selectively search for, and
identify short segments (called snippets) of music. The user may
enter one or more search terms for which they are searching within
a database of musical selections. Once the search terms have been
defined, the user initiates the search by selecting the search
button. The system searches for one or more of the musical
selections that most closely match the user's search parameters,
and returns those musical selections as search results back to the
user. The user then selects one of the results of the search that
they like best. Once the selection is made, the user may input
recipient information for the person to which they would like to
send this musical selection. This musical selection may then be
sent to the recipient by the system.
Inventors: |
Halt; Megan H.; (Media,
PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Halt; Megan H. |
Media |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52691919 |
Appl. No.: |
14/491512 |
Filed: |
September 19, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61880600 |
Sep 20, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
707/706 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 51/10 20130101;
H04L 51/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
707/706 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/30 20060101
G06F017/30; H04L 12/58 20060101 H04L012/58 |
Claims
1. A system for selective communication between a sender and a
recipient, comprising: a. an input interface for receiving an input
from a sender; b. electronic storage for storing a database of
information relating to a plurality of songs, including at least
title, album, artist, lyrics and related audio files; c. a
processor, for receiving the input, searching the database and
returning search results to the sender, and receiving a selection
of one of said search results, the processor for further
associating the selection with a corresponding audio selection and
for inserting the audio selection in an electronic message; and d.
a communication interface for transmitting the electronic message
to a recipient.
2. The system of claim 1, whereby the input from the user is a
spoken message.
3. The system of claim 1, whereby the input from the user is a
textual message.
4. The system of claim 1, whereby the search results each comprise
an audible playback of snippets of songs.
5. The system of claim 1, whereby the audio files comprise way
files.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the search results comprise
portions of lyrics comprising a predetermined length, and the
processor associates only the related portion of the audio
file.
7. The system of claim 1, whereby the recipient receives the
electronic message and has the option of sending a reply electronic
message including a selected audio file.
8. A method for selective communication between a sender and a
recipient, comprising: a. receiving an input from a sender; b.
storing a database of information relating to a plurality of songs,
including at least title, album, artist, lyrics and related audio
files; c. searching the database and returning search results to
the sender, and receiving a selection of one of said search
results; d. associating the selection with a corresponding audio
selection; e. inserting the audio selection in an electronic
message; and f. transmitting the electronic message to a
recipient.
9. The method of claim 8, whereby the input from the user is a
spoken message.
10. The method of claim 8, whereby the input from the user is a
textual message.
11. The method of claim 8, whereby the search results each comprise
an audible playback of snippets of songs.
12. The method of claim 8, whereby the audio files comprise way
files.
13. The method of claim 8, wherein the search results comprise
portions of lyrics comprising a predetermined length, and only the
related portion of the audio file is associated with the
lyrics.
14. The system of claim 1, whereby the recipient receives the
electronic message and has the option of sending a reply electronic
message including a selected audio file.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is related to communication systems.
More particularly, the present invention is a system and method for
social networking allowing people to utilize songs, lyrics, titles
and other information such as pictures, videos, texts, email and
other social networking sites to communicate with other users. The
invention also facilitates e-commerce in the purchasing of songs,
ring tones and other merchandise.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In many cultures, there are few things as endearing and
sacred as song. People are raised in a certain culture, and many of
the special aspects of a culture along with food, family and
entertainment are the songs with which people are raised.
[0003] Songs can provide an inspiration to what lies ahead, or may
take a person back, to reminisce for what was once beloved. There
are a few things that evoke such strong emotions as those to a
song.
[0004] Although songs have become ubiquitous along with modern
technology through the use of iPod and MP3 players or musical
players on smart phones, there is still a disconnect. Whereas in
the past, people would gather together to talk, eat, and enjoy
music, modern technology has fostered the scattering of people to
distant places. As a result, people don't often get together and
experience music along with other forms of culture in the same
manner as in past. Although songs are still an important part of
many cultures, it has become more difficult to experience songs
together as technology advances.
[0005] The Internet has enabled a plethora of new forms of
communication. Email, texts and instant messaging have replaced
paper mail and faxes as the primary means of communication between
both businesses and consumers. For example, instant messaging and
texting are different forms of communication that have enabled
people to be more productive in their daily lives. However, the
Internet has also caused a huge revolution in communication in
social networks. In particular, FACEBOOK has captured a younger
generation of people who use it as their primary mode of
communication among friends, family members and acquaintances.
[0006] TWITTER is also another form of communication that allows
small amounts of information to be sent to one or more people.
Another form of communication for pictures can be found with
SNAPCHAT and PINTEREST, which allow pictures to be sent to people
in one's social network. VINE has emerged as a similar social
network for videos. All of these forms of communication attempt to
meet a particular need, or are suited to a person's particular
taste, for a certain type of communication at that time.
[0007] The music industry has also been greatly transformed with
the advent of the Internet. At first, the technology associated
with the distribution of music was cumbersome. However, as that
technology advanced, illegal sharing of music proliferated. Sharing
or copying of songs was a huge legal issue in the early 2000s
between NAPSTER and the music companies. This almost devastated the
industry until APPLE introduced ITUNES. APPLE made it simple to
easily buy and download music in a legal framework. Since then,
there have been many alternatives to download songs through ITUNES
and other legitimate song outlets.
[0008] Music is important to many peoples' lives as it gives them a
way to identify with a particular situation, or capture a thought,
or emphasize or attempt to change their mood. People identify very
personally with their tastes in music.
[0009] While the Internet has enabled many different forms of
communication, there still is a need for communication that
seamlessly works with music. A better form of communication using
music is greatly needed.
SUMMARY
[0010] The present invention is a system and method, which permit
users to selectively search for, and identify short segments
(called snippets) of music. The user may enter one or more words,
thoughts or phrases for which they are searching within a database
of musical selections.
[0011] The user may optionally refine the search by selecting other
parameters such as the length of the snippet, identifying
characteristics such as the song title, the album title or the
actual lyrics of the snippet and other information related to one
or more songs. Once the search terms have been defined, the user
initiates the search by selecting the search button.
[0012] The system searches for one or more of the musical
selections associated with the user's search parameters, or that
most closely match the user's search parameters, and returns those
musical selections as search results back to the user. The user
then selects one of the results of the search that they like
best.
[0013] Once the selection is made, the user may input recipient
information for the person to which they would like to send this
musical selection. This musical selection may then be sent to the
recipient by the system.
[0014] These and other embodiments will be explained in greater
detail with respect to the drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is an example search window in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
[0016] FIG. 2 shows the search results in accordance with the
search term of FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 3 shows more detail presented after selection of one of
the search results of FIG. 2 presented to the user.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a musical message created by a specific selection
of FIG. 3.
[0019] FIG. 5 is an alternative embodiment of the musical message
of FIG. 4 including lyrics in textual format.
[0020] FIG. 6 shows the musical message being received by the
recipient in the form of an email.
[0021] FIG. 7 shows the musical message being received by the
recipient in the form of a text.
[0022] FIG. 8 shows the musical message being received by the
recipient in the form of a push notification in an app.
[0023] FIG. 9 shows the musical message received by the recipient
after it has been opened.
[0024] FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment wherein the
recipient selects the musical icon shown in FIG. 9.
[0025] FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment were the send may
send a plurality of different types of attachments.
[0026] FIG. 12 shows an attachment comprising a picture, and an
embodiment where the sender customizes the background.
[0027] FIG. 13 shows an embodiment whereby the recipient is
provided with the option of sending a return musical message.
[0028] FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment where a new window
has been opened up to play the musical payload along with textual
lyrics.
[0029] FIG. 15 shows yet another embodiment where the recipient is
presented with a myriad of options.
[0030] FIG. 16 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention
which provides more customize search parameters then the embodiment
shown in FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 17 shows a search conducted in accordance with the
present invention.
[0032] FIG. 18 shows a graphical user interface provided on a
mobile handheld electronic device as utilized by a user.
[0033] FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the
present invention.
[0034] FIG. 20 is a flow diagram of an alternative method in
accordance with the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 21 is a system which implements the methods and
embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0036] The present invention will be described hereinafter with
reference to the drawings, where like numerals represent like
elements throughout.
[0037] The present invention permits a person to input one or more
words, hereinafter referred to collectively as "search terms" and
perform a search for one or more songs or other related information
related to the search term. The purpose of this search is to allow
one individual to compile and send a musical message
instantaneously to one or more recipients.
[0038] Regardless of the particular type of end device, (mobile or
stationary), or the particular type of access, (such as a web
browser, email client, app or other type of interface), the
functionality as viewed by the user is generally the same, as will
be described hereinafter. In one example, a web browser may be
opened to the website which utilizes the present invention.
Although the present invention will be described in an embodiment
of a website, those of skill in the art would realize that the
teachings hereinafter show that the invention may be utilized on a
mobile device utilizing an app, or may be utilized on a desk top or
laptop utilizing a web browser, or a combination thereof.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, a web browser window 110 accessing a
web page 112 is shown. As will be described in detail below, the
web page 112 may include display elements that prompt the user for
information. The web page 112 may be included in a web browser
window 110. The web browser window 110 may include a control area
114 that includes a back button 116, forward button 118, address
field 120, refresh button 122, and home button 124. The control
area 114 may also include one or more additional control elements
(not depicted). The user may select the control elements 116, 118,
120, 122 and 124 in the control area 114. The selection may be
performed, for example, by the user clicking a mouse or providing
input via keyboard, touch screen, and/or other type of input
device. When one of the elements 116, 118, 120, 122 and 124 is
selected, the web browser window 110 will change to reflect the
action to be taken. For example, when the refresh button 122 is
selected, the web browser window 122 will be refreshed to accurate
display the webpage currently viewed in the web browser window
112.
[0040] As would be understood by those of skill in the art, a web
browser may not be necessary as a user may log directly into a
website or use an app to utilize the present invention.
[0041] Referring back to FIG. 1, the web browser window 112
displays a search field 126 for entering a search term. The search
term may be a word or multiple words. As shown, the search field
126 permits a user to type one or more search terms. The user in
this example has input the search term "I like you". The user then
selects the search button 128 to initiate the search, and the
system returns one or more search results that relate to the search
term "I like you". This is shown in FIG. 2.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 2, a database is searched for items that
match, or most closely match, the search term. These items can
consist of song lyrics, artists, genres, a song label, or in an
alternative embodiment, merchandise or other items. All of these
different possible results can be displayed to the user, and the
user then selects one or more songs which can be sent in a musical
message. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the user has input the
search term, "I like you". The user may then select the search
button 128 to initiate the search. The search may be performed
utilizing any of the available search engines available now, or
future developed.
[0043] The search may be made more directly. The lyrics that most
closely match the search term and, optionally, the artist may be
determined. An artist could be listed among the list of results
from the system either by a specific search for that artist, or
because the artist had been correlated with that phrase.
[0044] In an alternative, a correlation may be created in the
program between certain genres of music, phrases, and artists, and
the an "emotion" or "thought" that the song evokes. This concept
can be explained by the use of a specific song. For example,
consider Five for Fighting's song, "100 Years." This song has the
genre of soft rock. Additionally, additional "tags" may be
associated with the song such as "relaxing" or "nostalgic".
Continuing, Five for Fighting has the tendency to write songs about
"longing" or "confusion" in life matters. Associating these "tags"
with a song, album or an artist, just as an example, a relation may
be made between these feelings (embodied as "tags") and a word or
phrase that the prospective user may choose to search on. These
relations would be more abstract, and would depend on correlations
between feelings, emotions, and things of that nature. This
requires that one or more tags be associated with the terms that
the user is searching.
[0045] Regardless of the searching method, the search results 200
are returned to the user as shown in FIG. 2. These search results
200 may be derived from all of the search options as previously set
forth herein. In this example, the search results 200 include the
artist 202, and an "abbreviated version" (i.e. a few words) or
snippet 202. However, it should be understood by those of skill in
the art that in addition to the search results 200 as shown,
additional information may be returned along with the search
results 200 shown in FIG. 2. For example, the album and/or more
detailed information regarding the artist, as well as the label or
other songs by the artist or the label.
[0046] Although the present invention has been described above as
having the search results 200 graphically returned to the user, in
an alternative embodiment, the search results 200 may be audibly
played back to the user.
[0047] Additionally, although FIG. 2 shows only a snippet for each
search term, those of skill in the art would realize that more or
less of the lyrics of the song may be displayed, as desired by the
user. The user may be provided with the option of selecting the
size of the snippet; either a specific number of words, a stanza or
the entire song.
[0048] Furthermore, although the user will have the search results
200 including the artist 202 and a snippet 204 of the song, they
will have the option of using different lyrics of that same song by
double clicking on the song, which will provide all of the lyrics
of the song. This is particularly helpful in those situations where
the user would like to double check that the context of the lyrics
is similar to the message that the user is attempting to
convey.
[0049] After the search term is input into the search field 126, a
list of results is returned to the user. As those of skill in the
art would appreciate, the search engine may perform an exact match
of search terms, (i.e. only return results that match the terms
"I", "like" or "you", or results that include any combination of
any of those terms. Alternatively, the search engine may match
similar terms, whereby it may return both combinations of exact
matches of those terms or combinations of synonyms of those terms.
Using the present example, search results including the terms
"love", "adore" or "amore" may be returned in response to the term
"like" being input. As those of skill in the art would recognize,
many currently available search engines may be utilized, even if
they are not as comprehensive in the number and variety of synonyms
that will be returned in the search results.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 3, once the list of search results 200 is
displayed to the user, the user will then make their choice from
the displayed search results 200. For explanation purposes, the
choice is Avril Lavigne's "I Love You". As a result of the
selection, the lyrics of the song "I Love You" are presented to the
user, and the user makes a selection of the particular lyrics and
accompanying song portion that they would like.
[0051] A selection of lyrics may be made in many different ways.
For example, the lyrics relating to the search terms may be
highlighted as shown in the underlined words in FIG. 3.
[0052] In a first alternative, the system may highlight an extended
selection as shown in the underlined portion of section D of FIG.
3.
[0053] In a second alternative, each verse A, B, C, D and E may be
tagged for selection, or extended sections F and G may be tagged as
shown in FIG. 3.
[0054] In a third alternative, the user may simply highlight the
selection in which they are interested.
[0055] In a fourth alternative, the user may indicate that they
desire a specific time period of the song, and they input this
duration for selection. As those of skill in the art would
understand, there may be many different methods for either
pre-selecting or custom selecting the desired lyrics. These methods
can come from utilizing one of the alternatives mentioned, as well
as combining one or more of the alternatives to fit the user's
likes or dislikes for his or her musical message. Any of these
alternatives previously set forth may be utilized as described
herein.
[0056] Regardless of the specific selection by the user, ultimately
a selection is made by the user. For explanation purposes, the user
decides on section G of the displayed lyrics in FIG. 3. This is
done by highlighting the desired selection and clicking the GO
button as shown in FIG. 3. The user may be presented with the
option of confirming the selection, for example by a message
showing the particular selection and asking "Are you sure this is
the selection that you would like to send?"
[0057] Once confirmed by the user, a musical message for sending to
a recipient is generated. The musical message may be embodied as an
email, an SMS, a Facebook message, an instant message, a text or
any other type of electronic communication. However, for purposes
of clarification and ease of explanation, the invention will be
described hereinafter with reference to an email.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 4, a musical message 40 in the format of
an email is shown. The musical message 40 includes a recipient's
contact information 42, a CC: field 48, a BCC field 50, an optional
textual message or instructions 52, a subject line 44 and a link 46
(hereinafter referred to as the musical icon), to access the
musical selection, (hereinafter referred to as the musical payload
(not shown)). The musical icon 46 may be a hyperlink to a musical
file that is stored in the cloud, or may be an actual attached
audio file, for example a way, mp3, a raw audio file or any other
type of audio file format. The musical icon 46 operates as follows:
when the recipient clicks on the musical icon 46, the music
selection will played for the recipient.
[0059] The musical icon 46 will be sent to the recipient when the
sender is content with the message he/she has composed. Depending
on personal preferences, the present invention may have access to
the user's contact information, whereby they user may select from a
plurality of the user's contacts, streamlining the process of
sending the message to one or more recipients by avoiding the
necessity of typing in the entire email address of the one or more
recipients. When the user is satisfied that the musical message 40
is ready for transmission to one or more recipients, they select
the send button 54 to send the musical message 40 in the form of an
email.
[0060] In an optional embodiment shown in FIG. 5, an alternative
format of a musical message 40 having the lyrics included in
textual format 56 in the musical message 40. This is convenient for
the recipient as they are able to read the lyrics as the music is
playing, to ensure that there is no misunderstanding as to the
exact lyrics being sent. In this format, the lyrics may be
highlighted to guide the recipient as they listen to the audio
file. It should be noted that although the musical message 40 is
shown in FIG. 5 as including the lyrics in textual format 56 within
the musical message 40, this is just one example, as sending the
lyrics in textual format 56 is optional.
[0061] Additionally, although the musical message 40 is shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5 as comprising an email, it should be understood by
those of skill in the art that the message may comprise a text, an
instant message, a notification within an app or any other type of
electronic notification. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a
recipient's email inbox 60 is shown, with the musical message 40
being received by the recipient in the form of an email 62.
[0062] In the example of FIG. 7, the musical message 40 is received
by the recipient in the form of a text 70.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 8, a smartphone 80 showing a plurality of
apps 82-99, the musical message 40 is received by the recipient in
a push notification 97 from an app 92. In each of these formats,
the sender may make a selection that determines whether the
recipient will be permitted play the musical message 40 only one
time or multiple times. Because of this, the sender will have
ultimate control over the amount of times the musical message 40
may be heard by the recipient.
[0064] Therefore, although the musical message 40 may take one of
many different forms or formats, the function is the same: the
musical message permits the recipient to access the musical message
created by the sender, and play the message as many times as
selected by the sender. Referring back to FIG. 4 again, if the user
is satisfied with the message, they select the send button to send
the musical message to the recipient.
[0065] Referring back to FIG. 6, when a recipient looks at their
email inbox 60, they will observe that they have received a new
email 62. When they select the email 62 to view, they will see the
musical message 40 sent by the sender. When the email 62 is opened,
the recipient observes the musical message 40 shown in FIG. 9. It
should be understood that regardless of the form in which the
musical message is received, (i.e. email, text, push notification,
or any other format), it would function very similar to the
embodiment that will be described with respect to the email
example.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 9, after the recipient opens the email 62,
the recipient is presented with the sender's information 100 in the
From: field 102, a subject 104 in the subject field 106, and the
musical icon 46 to access the musical payload. When the recipient
selects the musical icon 46, the musical payload is played to the
recipient. Therefore, to access the music selection within the
musical message 40, the recipient only needs to click on the music
icon 46.
[0067] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 10, when the
recipient selects the musical icon 46 shown in FIG. 9, not only is
the musical payload played for the recipient, but also the textual
format of the lyrics is presented. In this embodiment, the
recipient may also be guided through the textual lyrics by
highlighting or other graphical means so that the recipient may
effortlessly follow along in time with the music payload as it is
played. This is graphically shown in FIG. 10 by the bolded and
underlined words. As would be understood by those of skill in the
art, this bolding and underlining 57, (or other graphical scheme
being utilized), will change to highlight other words as the music
in the musical payload plays out. This is similar to a karaoke
machine whereby a singer is guided through a song in order to sing
along with the words displayed on a screen.
[0068] Although the musical message as described hereinbefore
includes a link or an actual file for the musical payload, it may
not be so limited. The musical message may include other optional
information as well, which will be described in greater detail
hereinafter.
[0069] It would be understood by those of skill in the art that
other alternatives may be presented to the user without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, in
one alternative embodiment, shown in FIG. 11, while composing a
musical message 1100 the sender may be presented with a plurality
of options 1102-1118 for creating a more detailed and more
customized and personal musical message. As shown, (using a
different musical selection 1120 as an example), the user is
presented with the option of attaching a picture 1102, attaching a
video clip 1104, attaching an audio clip 1116, purchasing the
musical selection for themselves or the recipient 1106, for sending
a gift 1118, or for sending the message in one or more of a
plurality of formats including email 1108, Facebook 1110, Twitter
1112, as a text 1114 or any other of a plurality of available
formats (such as instant message or the like). This permits an
extremely high level of customization.
[0070] For example the sender may wish to send a personalized gift
to the recipient for their birthday. By utilizing the system
described herein, the sender may make a personalized musical
selection, attach or embed a photo (as will be described
hereinafter), and attach an electronic gift card, (such as an
Amazon gift card). This is much nicer than just texting the person
with a "Happy Birthday" message.
[0071] For example, as shown in FIG. 12, musical message 1200 may
include a picture, which may be an attachment 1204 to the musical
message 1200 and accessed by the recipient as an attachment or a
link. In yet another alternative, also shown in FIG. 12, the
picture may comprise the entire background 1202 to the musical
message 1200. This provides the sender to exercise a high level of
creativity and customization in creating the musical message 1200
for the recipient.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 13, the recipient may receive a musical
message 1300 which presents the recipient not only with a musical
icon 1302 which permits the recipient to listen to the musical
selection, but also send a reply by selecting a send message button
1304.
[0073] Once the recipient listens to the musical selection, if they
want to send a reply to the musical message, they select the "Send
Message" button 1304. Accordingly, the recipient then becomes the
sender and they follow the process described and demonstrated
through FIGS. 1-7.
[0074] FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment whereby after the
musical icon 1302 is selected a new window 1400 has been opened up
and the musical selection is played, along with textual lyrics
1404. The recipient is given the option of sending a reply message
by selecting the send message button 1406 as they are listening to
the musical message 1300. All of these varying embodiments are
simply different options in order to streamline the invention and
make the process more enjoyable for the sender and the
recipient.
[0075] FIG. 15 shows yet another embodiment where the recipient is
sent a musical message 1500 which presents the recipient with a
myriad of options 1502-1518. Those of skill in the art would
realize that the specific options 1502-1518 are shown in FIG. 15
for ease of explanation and typically a sender would not select all
of the options for sending to a recipient. In one alternative, a
recipient only receives what the sender selects for the recipient
to receive. For example, if the sender only sent a picture and a
gift, the picture attachment option 1502 and the gift attachment
option 1510 would be presented to the recipient, and the customized
audio clip option 1506, the video attachment option 1504 and the
purchased song option 1508 would not be included.
[0076] In and alternative embodiment, the recipient may be
presented with certain options (for example, the picture attachment
option 1502 and the gift option 1510) as selected by the sender,
and may be presented with other options (for example, to send a
reply 1502 or to purchase the song or video option 1508).
Additionally, any of the formats of reply may be allowed, or may be
restricted as selected by the sender, or automatically.
[0077] Referring to FIG. 16, an alternative embodiment 1600 of the
invention is shown. This embodiment 1600 provides much more
customizable search parameters then that provided in the embodiment
shown in FIG. 1. In this embodiment 1600, although the search terms
1602 are still input into the search box 1604, a plurality of
additional selections 1606-1630 is presented.
[0078] The first set of options 1606-1630 relates to the search
parameters, which permits the sender to further customize their
search, and narrows the search results as desired by the sender. In
this aspect, the items that can be specified are related to the
music. For example, the sender may only select lyrics from a
certain genre 1606, playlist 1608, group of songs 1610, artist
1612, album 1614, composers 1616, compilations 1622 or "favorites"
list 1624, or the sender may limit the search to only lyrics 1618
or titles 1620. This permits the user to set the particular
parameters by which the search is conducted. Accordingly, by these
selections the search parameters may apply only to titles, artists,
genres or words with in a song (i.e. lyrics). The user may
selectively choose one or more of these search parameters.
[0079] An additional search parameter may apply to the "length of
the selection" 1630. For example, a sender may input the search
terms "hold your hand" and the length of five and the search
results will include only phrases with 5 or less words, such as "I
wanna hold your hand" by the Beatles.
[0080] These options also permit the sender to decide on other
customizable options that do not have to do with the actual search,
for example, what further attachments to include with the musical
message. These options include whether to provide attachments 1632,
and if so, whether to attach a picture 1634, a video 1636, text
1638, a customized audio file 1640 or a gift 1642.
[0081] The game play option 1644 permits the user to initiate a
game with the recipient. Such a game could consist of who could
come up with the best song with certain parameters in a specific
time period for example.
[0082] An additional option of "musical buddy" 1626 allows the user
and the recipient to create and add to a joint music list and use
those selections sent by the sender and the recipient. Both the
sender and the recipient can edit and select from that particular
music list.
[0083] The song match option 1628 allows the suggestion of songs
that are similar in one or more of a plurality of different
parameters. This permits recommendations of musical selections that
the sender may not think of, but would be pleased to be presented
with. One embodiment of this may be similar to the search engine
utilized by AMAZON, whereby the search engine responds with
selections that other users have made. In this embodiment,
selections that other senders have made bay be presented to the
current sender. In the search box 1604 of FIG. 16, the search terms
1602 "I like you" has been inserted and the lyrics 1618 and title
1620 search options have been selected.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 17, a search conducted in accordance with
the search parameters set forth in FIG. 16 is shown. As presented
therein, the type field 1702 includes only lyrics and titles as
found by the search engine, and these are presented to the sender,
(since these were the parameters selected by the sender). The
artist field 1704 is shown, along with the text of the lyrics or
title in the results field 1706.
[0085] Those of skill in the art would realize that a plethora of
different search options, search parameters and search engines may
be utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present invention. For example, in the most simplistic
implementation of the invention, a large database including all of
the parameters of all of the included songs (the aforementioned
paramaters including, title, artist, lyrics, genre, length of song,
number of words, etc,) may be utilized and a simple searching
algorithm may be employed to obtain the search results.
[0086] The present invention will be best utilized as a social
media application. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 18, a graphical
user interface (GUI) 1802 employed on a handheld device 1800 (such
as a smartphone, but could include a phablet, tablet, smartwatch,
or other mobile device) will be the primary avenue to access the
application. As shown, the application 1804 is initiated, and the
user hits the "microphone" button 1806 on the GUI 1802. The
handheld device 1800 records the sound emanating from the user
(which in this case is the words "I like you"), translates it into
text format, and the user hits search button 1808 in order to
initiate the search. Of course, it will be preferable to have a
streamlined great GUI in order to make it easier on a user in the
small screen environment as shown by the mobile application.
[0087] An overview of the process 1900 of the present invention
from the perspective of the sender is shown in FIG. 19. Referring
to FIG. 19, the sender inputs desired search terms 1902 in the
search screen in order to initiate a search. As aforementioned, the
sender not only enters the search terms, but may optionally enter
other search parameters in order to further customize the search.
The system then receives the search terms and parameters and
searches all or a portion of the music library 1904, depending on
said parameters. The system then retrieves search results and ranks
them by their relevance 1906 to the search terms and
parameters.
[0088] It should be understood by those of skill in the art that
the system may exceed the specific search parameters as set forth
by the user in order to optimize search results, (for example by
providing other recommendations as described above). The search
results are then presented to the user 1908 as ranked by the system
for relevance. The user selects 1910 the desired search results and
the system utilizes the search results to prepare a communication
for transmission 1914. The user first prepares the musical message
by picking and choosing the desired lyrics 1910. The user then
selects a recipient(s) from a list of recipients or inputs the
recipient's contact information 1916. Continuing, the user may
optionally input additional information or include additional
information 1918 such as the aforementioned attachments for
customizing the message. The user then presses the send icon 1920
and the system sends the communication to the recipient 1920.
[0089] It should be understood by those of skill in the art that
although the process 1900 shown in FIG. 19 is shown as a series of
sequential steps, some of these steps may be easily altered,
eliminated or reordered. For example, selecting or inputting the
recipient's contact information 1916, or selecting or inputting
additional information 1918 such as attachments may be performed
earlier in the process 1900. Likewise, if the user knows exactly
which song they would like to use, several steps may be eliminated
by the system, therefore streamlining the process 1900 further.
[0090] An overview of the process 2000 of the present invention
from the perspective of the recipient is shown in FIG. 20. The
system first sends a communication 2002 to the recipient. The
recipient receives and reviews the communication 2004 and selects
the musical message button 2006 to initiate the payload. This
selection is transmitted to the system, which retrieves the musical
selection 2008, formats the musical selection for presentation
2010, and displays the musical message for the recipient. The
recipient listens to or views the musical message 2012 (the amount
can vary depending on the sender), and if desired they select the
reply icon 2104 shown in the screen if they would like to send a
musical selection in response. The recipient then has the option of
replying to the sender with a text message, or a response of
musical message, or a picture, or a various combinations of the
aforementioned messages.
[0091] Referring to FIG. 21, a system 2100 in accordance with the
present invention includes a processor 2102, a storage module 2104,
and a web module 2106. It would be understood that these three
components may be separate components, or may comprise a single
unit. Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 21 for simplicity, one
or more of these modules may be functionally linked together as
appropriate. As those of skill in the art would appreciate, the
modules may be embodied as physical units that are physically
linked together via one or more electronic bus structures 2108, may
be functional units that are functionally linked together via one
or more communication protocols (not shown), or there may be a
combination of physical or functional units. They may be programmed
via software or firmware in a plurality of physically separate
units, or may be incorporated into a single programmable unit.
Accordingly, although the system 2100 may be distinct and specific
units or modules, this is for convenience of explanation, and these
modules, systems or units may be variously combined into one or a
plurality of units without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present invention.
[0092] The processor 2102 provides over control of the system 2100
and implements the search engine function, which searches the
musical database. The storage module 2104 stores the musical
database, and any other data needed for the system to operate, such
as email addresses, credit card information, or other information
for storage.
[0093] The web module 2106 facilitates generation of the musical
messages between customers, or the communication between the system
and e-commerce partners. The musical messages may be HyperText
Markup Language (HTML) email messages, Rich Text Format (RTF) email
messages, and/or may be defined according to any other current or
future appropriate format. The web module 2106 may be configured to
facilitate electronic communication between users of the system.
The web module 2106 may communicate email messages using
technologies such as Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP), Post
Office Protocol (POP) technology, Internet Message Access Protocol
(IMAP), Remote Procedure Call (RPC) technology, HyperText Transfer
Protocol (HTTP), and/or other current or future appropriate
technologies. The web module 2106 may use these technologies to
transmit and/or receive email messages via one or more email
servers (not depicted), which may be directly interface with
system, or may be a third party service such as constant contact or
mail chimp.
[0094] The web module 2106 may be, or include, an email client such
as Microsoft Outlook, Thunderbird, a web browser application, or
any other current or future client application for the
communication of email messages.
[0095] Utilizing the teachings above, those of skill in the art
would appreciate that a myriad of alternative embodiments may be
implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present invention. For example, a user may string together a series
of musical selections in order to provide a lengthier musical
message. In this embodiment, the user may submit a desired message
in textual format, for example a letter. The musical search engine
will search for a number of songs having the lyrics that match
exactly, or closely match depending upon the search parameters, the
intended message. The search engine then generates the results of
the musical message from the intended textual message. The sender
is permitted to listen to the messages to determine if the
generated musical message is what the user intended, or close to
what the user intended. Once the user approves this message, they
may select send message and they will be given the option of
sending the musical message alone, the musical message along with
another text message, the musical message along with a picture
message or combination of all the aforementioned messages.
[0096] In this manner, the system of the present invention is the
user complete flexibility to design a musical message in accordance
with the intended meaning utilizing bits and pieces of different
available songs. The system allows the flexibility of sending a
short or a long musical message, either alone or with various
combinations of picture, text or other type messages including
other hyperlinks and attached files.
[0097] In yet a further alternative embodiment, the system permits
the user to create and send musical picture books. In such an
embodiment, the user creates a template of pictures, similar to a
Microsoft PowerPoint or A video, and then may associate intended
songs along with the pictures or video. In this manner, a user may
send a musical picture book or video book to a recipient.
[0098] The present invention maybe utilized along with,
incorporated as part of other present today applications or social
media outlets such as YouTube, iMessage, texting or Facebook in
order to provide an enhanced and lasting user experience.
[0099] In yet another embodiment, a plurality of keywords or
metadata is associated and stored with each song which can be
utilized later on for searching purposes. For example, a song may
include the following search characterizations: romantic,
male-to-female (i.e. a man singing to a woman), make-up, upbeat,
ethnic, happy. Utilizing these parameters, a person (a man) looking
to send a recipient (a woman) a song attempting to "make up" with
them might search for a song like this. This embodiment is
particularly suitable when the lyrics of a song are not literal
(i.e. the actual words may be subtle and do not match the "true"
meaning of the song). This would provide the search engine with a
more granular and accurate search of the songs for which the user
is looking.
[0100] In another alternative embodiment, a user may upload an
original song with its associated lyrics, and utilize that song for
sending a musical message. As part of the "game" feature, this song
may be selected as one or more songs in a "song playoff" for voting
upon by other users. This game may be implemented by the users to
select the favorite song of the month.
[0101] In another embodiment includes a game for "naming that tune"
where users can name different songs and test their knowledge of
music by playing the song without the lyrics users may select among
apply rowdy of different lengths of the song. For example, some
users may select 12 notes, where other more experienced users may
select three notes in order to "name that tune".
[0102] In all of these embodiments, the users may compete and win
free downloads or other merchandise and/or, send to other
users.
[0103] The present invention permits people to share not only bits
and pieces of songs, but also share songs in a manner that is much
more personal to them and a desired recipient. The invention
permits a creator to selectively choose portions of one or more
songs and tailor those portions to an intended message. Songs that
are beloved may be incorporated into a user's message and playback
to an intended recipient.
[0104] The present invention allows people to utilize and
experience songs in a manner that is personal to them and a
recipient, unlike any form or format that has been utilized
today.
* * * * *