U.S. patent application number 15/977193 was filed with the patent office on 2018-09-13 for visible insurance.
The applicant listed for this patent is Great Lakes Incubator, LLC. Invention is credited to Himanshu S. Amin, Brian Asquith, Fred Collopy, Ronald Charles Krosky, Patrica Sue Murphy, Craig Allen Nard, Gustavo Arnaldo Narvaez, David Noonan, Gregory Turocy.
Application Number | 20180260908 15/977193 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42197144 |
Filed Date | 2018-09-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180260908 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Collopy; Fred ; et
al. |
September 13, 2018 |
VISIBLE INSURANCE
Abstract
Real-time insurance rates can be generated and presented to a
driver--as the rate changes, the change can be shown through an
interface. Different factors can be evaluated and based upon a
result of the evaluation, the rate can be determined. The
determination can be performed locally at a vehicle as well as by
an insurance company. A bidding process can be used where different
insurance companies supply rates and a user or automated process
selects the rate for use--the selected rate is conveyed upon the
interface.
Inventors: |
Collopy; Fred; (Cleveland
Heights, OH) ; Nard; Craig Allen; (Shaker Heights,
OH) ; Amin; Himanshu S.; (Solon, OH) ; Turocy;
Gregory; (Moreland Hills, OH) ; Murphy; Patrica
Sue; (Brook Park, 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 |
Great Lakes Incubator, LLC |
Beachwood |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
42197144 |
Appl. No.: |
15/977193 |
Filed: |
May 11, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14805133 |
Jul 21, 2015 |
9996884 |
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15977193 |
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12395342 |
Feb 27, 2009 |
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14805133 |
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61118400 |
Nov 26, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0251 20130101;
G06Q 30/0224 20130101; G06Q 30/0273 20130101; G06Q 30/06 20130101;
G06Q 40/08 20130101; G06Q 30/0265 20130101; G06Q 30/04
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 40/08 20060101
G06Q040/08 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A real-time insurance rate generation system, comprising: a
processor that executes computer executable components stored on a
storage medium, the computer executable components comprising: a
collections component that identifies an opportunity to provide a
real-time insurance rate for a vehicle and that collects real-time
operation information of the vehicle; and an analysis component
that receives and evaluates the real-time operation information to
generate the real-time insurance rate.
22. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a rendering
component that displays the real-time insurance rate to a driver or
passenger of the vehicle, wherein the rendering component is
located within the vehicle.
23. The system of claim 2, wherein the rendering component is
physically integrated into a dashboard of the vehicle.
24. The system of claim 2, wherein the rendering component is a
heads-up display in the vehicle.
25. The system of claim 2, wherein the rendering component is an
integrated part of an on-board navigation system of the
vehicle.
26. The system of claim 2, wherein the rendering component displays
the real-time insurance rate on a personal electronic device of the
driver or passenger.
27. The system of claim 1, wherein the collections component
further collects at least one of contextual information, driver
history metadata, road condition data, weather data, or traffic
data, and wherein the analysis component evaluates the at least one
of contextual information, driver history metadata, road condition
data, weather data, or traffic data in conjunction with the
real-time operation information to generate the real-time insurance
rate.
28. The system of claim 1, wherein the analysis component leverages
at least one artificial intelligence technique to evaluate the
real-time operation information to determine a level of risk
associated with the vehicle, wherein the real-time insurance rate
is generated based on the determined level of risk.
29. A real-time insurance rate generation method, comprising: using
a processor to execute computer executable components stored on a
storage medium, which computer executable components perform acts
comprising: identifying, via a collections component, an
opportunity to provide a real-time insurance rate for a vehicle;
collecting, via the collections component, real-time operation
information of the vehicle; and evaluating, via an analysis
component, the real-time operation information to generate the
real-time insurance rate.
30. The method of claim 9, further comprising: displaying, via a
rendering component, the real-time insurance rate to a driver or
passenger of the vehicle, wherein the rendering component is
located within the vehicle.
31. The method of claim 10, wherein the rendering component is
physically integrated into a dashboard of the vehicle.
32. The method of claim 10, wherein the rendering component is a
heads-up display in the vehicle.
33. The method of claim 10, wherein the rendering component is an
integrated part of an on-board navigation system of the
vehicle.
34. The method of claim 10, wherein the rendering component
displays the real-time insurance rate on a personal electronic
device of the driver or passenger.
35. The method of claim 9, further comprising: collecting, via the
collections component, at least one of contextual information,
driver history metadata, road condition data, weather data, or
traffic data; and evaluating, via the analysis component, the at
least one of contextual information, driver history metadata, road
condition data, weather data, or traffic data in conjunction with
the real-time operation information to generate the real-time
insurance rate.
36. The method of claim 9, wherein the evaluating the real-time
operation information comprises leveraging at least one artificial
intelligence technique to determine a level of risk associated with
the vehicle based on the real-time operation information, wherein
the real-time insurance rate is generated based on the determined
level of risk.
37. A real-time insurance rate rendering system, comprising: a
display component located in a vehicle and that displays a
real-time insurance rate associated with the vehicle to a driver of
the vehicle; and a light indicator located in the vehicle and that
displays at least one of one or more colors to the driver to
indicate how an operation of the vehicle influences the real-time
insurance rate.
38. The system of claim 17, wherein the light indicator displays a
green color if the operation of the vehicle tends to lower the
real-time insurance rate, wherein the light indicator displays a
red color if the operation of the vehicle tends to increase the
real-time insurance rate, and wherein the light indicator displays
a yellow color if the operation of the vehicle does not tend to
change the real-time insurance rate.
39. The system of claim 17, wherein the display component and the
light component are physically integrated into a dashboard of the
vehicle.
40. The system of claim 17, wherein the display component and the
light component are incorporated into a heads-up display in the
vehicle.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/805,133, filed Jul. 21, 2015, and entitled
"VISIBLE INSURANCE", which is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/395,342, filed Feb. 27, 2009, and entitled
"VISIBLE INSURANCE," which claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/118,400, filed Nov. 26, 2008, and entitled
"INSURANCE OPTIMIZER AND REAL TIME ANALYTICS." The entireties of
each are incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The subject specification relates generally to insurance
rates and in particular to disclosing real-time insurance rates to
a vehicle operator.
BACKGROUND
[0003] 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 high cost of insurance
premiums. A person can pay an insurance premium at one instance for
coverage over a block of time, such as making a payment
semi-annually for six months of coverage. Once the premium is paid,
the driver commonly does not think about insurance until the next
payment is due or an incident occurs that brings the premium to the
driver's consciousness (e.g., being in an automobile accident).
With limited and infrequent thought to insurance premiums, drivers
can be less likely to perform actions that are beneficial to
lowering their premiums as well as their risk factor.
[0004] Insurance companies calculate premiums for coverage through
complex models based upon a variety of factors. The goal of these
models is to determine a risk level associated with a driver or
vehicle--based upon the risk level, an amount for the premium can
be ascertained. Age, driver citation history, and other factors can
be used in determining the risk level and thus ascertaining the
amount for a premium.
SUMMARY
[0005] The following discloses a simplified summary of the
specification in order to provide a basic understanding of some
aspects of the specification. This summary is not an extensive
overview of the specification. It is intended to neither identify
key or critical elements of the specification nor delineate the
scope of the specification. Its sole purpose is to disclose some
concepts of the specification in a simplified form as a prelude to
the more detailed description that is disclosed later.
[0006] With the disclosed innovation, insurance rates can be
calculated in real-time and be presented to a driver through an
interface in their vehicle. Multiple benefits can be gained based
upon real-time calculation and presentation, such as making a
driver more aware of how his actions influence his risk and
therefore his insurance premium. Real-time calculations can model
actual driving and thus provide more accurate rates that can
benefit both the driver and an insurance provider.
[0007] Additionally, the real-time calculations can be presented to
the driver through an interface and thus insurance can be brought
to a driver's consciousness. As the driver changes speed, travels
along different road types, geographic areas, and the like, the
insurance rate can dynamically change and the change can be
presented through the interface. In addition to presenting the rate
(or a representation of the rate), the driver can be presented with
a suggestion on how to modify behavior in order to bring the
insurance rate down. In an illustrative instance, the driver can be
instructed that driving more slowly can lower her insurance rate
and be presented indication of the saving achieved by altering
conduct.
[0008] The following description and the annexed drawings set forth
certain illustrative aspects of the specification. These aspects
are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which
the principles of the specification can be employed. Other
advantages and novel features of the specification will become
apparent from the following detailed description of the
specification when considered in conjunction with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a representative configuration for
producing and disclosing real-time insurance information in
accordance with an aspect of the subject specification.
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a representative system for collecting
information and determining an insurance rate based upon the
collected information in accordance with an aspect of the subject
specification.
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a representative system for performing
functions in relation to determining and presenting real-time
insurance information in accordance with an aspect of the subject
specification.
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a representative system for insurance
information disclosure through use of a color element in accordance
with an aspect of the subject specification.
[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates a representative methodology for
presenting a real-time insurance rate and supplying feedback
related to the rate in accordance with an aspect of the subject
specification.
[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a representative methodology for
producing an advertisement in conjunction with a real-time
insurance rate in accordance with an aspect of the subject
specification.
[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a representative methodology for
selecting a real-time insurance bid in accordance with an aspect of
the subject specification.
[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates a representative methodology for
preparing a bid for real-time insurance in accordance with an
aspect of the subject specification.
[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a schematic block diagram
of a computing environment in accordance with an aspect of the
subject specification.
[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a block diagram of a
computer operable to execute the disclosed architecture.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The claimed subject matter is now described with reference
to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer
to like elements throughout. In the following description, for
purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in
order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject
matter. It can be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter
can 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 the claimed subject
matter.
[0020] As used in this application, the terms "component,"
"module," "system," "interface," or the like are generally 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 can 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 controller
and the controller can be a component. One or more components can
reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component
can be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or
more computers. As another example, an interface can include I/O
components as well as associated processor, application, and/or API
components.
[0021] Because insurance is purchased and then forgotten, the
selling company has difficulty achieving many of the benefits of a
brand. For example, rarely does a guest in one's car comment "Oh, I
see you have xyz insurance. How do you like dealing with them?"
[0022] FIG. 1 shows an example configuration 100 for disclosing an
interface 102 to the user with real-time insurance information.
Insurance can be calculated in real-time and as such can more
accurately reflect appropriate coverage for a situation of a
driver. A plurality of different factors can influence a likelihood
of the driver being involved in an accident, having a vehicle
stolen, and the like. For example, if the driver is travelling
through bad weather, then risk can be higher and a rate can be
increased in real-time as weather conditions change--conversely, if
there is relatively little traffic surrounding the driver's
vehicle, then the rate can be lowered. An algorithm or complex
model can be used to calculate the insurance and the insurance rate
can be disclosed to the user through the interface 102.
[0023] To facilitate operation, an analysis component 104 can be
employed that evaluates insurance rate information against current
vehicle operation by a user. Specifically, the evaluation can
compare the current operation against insurance rate information (
) to determine if an appropriate rate is being used, if the rate
should be changed, what the change should be, etc. For instance,
different aspects of vehicle operation can be taken into
account--FIG. 1 discloses four aspects of metadata that relate to
insurance rate: weather and how a user reacts, speed (of a
vehicle), traffic and how the user reacts, and noise (e.g., radio
level). It is to be appreciated that numerous other aspects can be
taken into consideration.
[0024] A rendering component 106 can be employed that renders on a
display a real-time insurance rate that is based at least in part
on a result of the evaluation. For example, an insurance rate can
be determined and represented upon the interface 102--as more
information is gathered, pieces of driver information change, and
the like, the interface 102 can be manipulated to disclose a
changed rate. A processor that executes the computer executable
components stored on a storage medium can be employed (e.g.,
analysis component 104 and rendering component 106).
[0025] In an alternative embodiment, the analysis component 104 can
communicate with an insurance company (e.g., continuous
communication) and obtain an insurance rate directly. The rendering
component 106 can modify the interface 102 such that the obtained
rate is presented to the user. As new rates are identified by the
analysis component 104, the rendering component 106 can make
appropriate modification to the interface automatically.
[0026] The interface 102 can configure such that different pieces
of information are presented to a user. For example, a real-time
rate portion 108 can be presented and modified depending on an
output of the rendering component 106. The rate shown can be
monthly, hourly, a rate of a journey (e.g., travel from two
different points), and others. Data associated with the rate can
also be disclosed, such as which company is supplying the rate.
[0027] A light indicator 110 can be used by the interface to
quickly highlight to an operator how her driving influences the
insurance rate. With one implementation, the user can be protected
through coverage associated with a standard rate (e.g., X dollars
per month) that is generally applied. However, if a user drives in
a certain manner or meets a certain standard, then the rate can be
modified in a positive or negative direction. For example, if a
user obeys the speed limit for Y % of the time she drives in a
month, then she can receive a Z % discount on her rate. This can
also be used to increase the rate, such that obeying the speed
limit for less than a prescribed amount causes a rate to increase.
A light indicator 110 can change color based upon vehicle operate
in relation to a real-time insurance rate. For instance, a
red-yellow-green indicator can be used where if a driver is
performing to lower her rate then green is shown, to increase her
rate then red is shown, and if there is no change, then yellow is
shown. In one implementation, the light indicator 110 can integrate
in a heads-up display so the driver can quickly ascertain if they
are driving in a beneficial or detrimental manner.
[0028] More detailed feedback can be provided to the user and
displayed through portion 112 of the interface. For example, a
reason why the light indicator 110 is red can be provided--analysis
of travel can be performed and the feedback can be limited in
disclosure during safe instances (e.g., a vehicle is stopped at a
traffic signal, the vehicle is in park, etc.). It is also possible
for a user to be involved in a travel group, such that rates and/or
discounts (e.g., coupons, rate reduction, etc.) are based upon how
the drive compares against other group members. For example, a
number of parents whose children play on a sports team can join in
a travel group, such that a safest member is provided a discount
insurance rate (e.g., since there is a high likelihood one parent
travels with children from different families). A group rank (e.g.,
ranking of safety of a user within a peer group) can be presented
through portion 114 and as such, a driver can determine if he
should modify driving behavior--data of the travel group can be
disclosed to other members. In an illustrative instance, parents of
new drivers can enroll their newly driving children in a ranking
program. With this ranking program, a child can be ranked against
his peers (e.g., nationally, from a same town or school, etc.) and
the ranking can be used to improve driving or incentives the child,
such as through a financial reward.
[0029] Now referring to FIG. 2, an example system 200 is shown with
various components that assist with interface modification. A
collection component 202 can obtain the insurance rate information
(e.g., a default insurance rate, an insurance rate model, etc.) or
metadata that pertains to current vehicle operation by the user
(e.g., a result of sensor monitoring). A communication component
204 and/or a search component 206 can be employed to assist in
operation of the collection component 202.
[0030] The communication component 204 can engage with other
devices to transfer information, such as to send a request for
information, receiving information, etc. Operation can take place
wirelessly, in a hard-wired manner, employment of security
technology (e.g., encryption), etc. Moreover, the communication
component 204 can utilize various protective features, such as
performing a virus scan on obtained data and blocking information
that is positive for a virus. In one example, the communication
component 204 can communicate with an insurance company to
ascertain a rate.
[0031] To gather information a search component 206 can be employed
to locate a source that provides information obtainable by the
collection component 202. A source can be a database server, an
airway transmission, an incoming electronic message, etc. Multiple
sources can provide conflicting information (e.g., different radio
stations provide different weather reports) and the search
component 206 can include logic that resolves conflict issues
(e.g., information is downloaded from a source with a history of
being highly trustworthy.) For example, the analysis component 104
can initiate a request to obtain metadata. The search component 206
can determine data sources where valuable information resides and
locate the data sources--the communication component 204 can make
transfer requests to the data sources and response to the requests
can be collected and then processed by an analysis component 104. A
more active gathering can occur, such that access is requested or
taken and the collection component 202 scans or extracts
appropriate information.
[0032] It is to be appreciated that determinations and inferences
disclosed herein can be practiced through implementation of
artificial intelligence techniques. An artificial intelligence
component 208 (e.g., used in practicing the artificial intelligence
techniques) can employ one of numerous methodologies for learning
from data and then drawing inferences and/or making determinations
related to dynamically storing information across multiple storage
units (e.g., Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) and related prototypical
dependency models, more general probabilistic graphical models,
such as Bayesian networks, e.g., created by structure search using
a Bayesian model score or approximation, linear classifiers, such
as support vector machines (SVMs), non-linear classifiers, such as
methods referred to as "neural network" methodologies, fuzzy logic
methodologies, and other approaches that perform data fusion, etc.)
in accordance with implementing various automated aspects described
herein. In addition, the artificial intelligence component 208 can
also include methods for capture of logical relationships such as
theorem provers or more heuristic rule-based expert systems. The
artificial intelligence component 208 can be represented as an
externally pluggable component, in some cases designed by a
disparate (third) party.
[0033] The rendering component 106 can determine the modification
based upon logic retained on storage. Different pieces of
information, such as obtained information, component operating
instructions (e.g., of the search component 206), an original
route, etc. can be held on storage 210. Storage 210 can arrange in
a number of different configurations, including as random access
memory, battery-backed memory, hard disk, magnetic tape, etc.
Various features can be implemented upon storage 210, such as
compression and automatic back up (e.g., use of a Redundant Array
of Independent Drives configuration). The analysis component 104
and/or rendering component 106 (as well as other components) can
reside at a remote location (e.g., a server at an office of the
company) and transfer (e.g., through the communication component
204) an instruction used in rendering. Additionally, the analysis
component 104 and/or rendering component (as well as other
components) can reside upon a vehicle, personal electronic device
(e.g., mobile telephone), at a third party location, be distributed
across a data network, etc.
[0034] Additionally, a transaction component 212 can be employed to
perform financial reward functions and operations. For instance, if
a driver meets a standard (e.g., travel for a journey without
speeding), then the driver can be rewarded with a financial credit.
The transaction component 212 can instruct a financial institution
(e.g., through the communication component 204) to credit an
account for the driver, send the driver a check, etc.
[0035] Now referring to FIG. 3, an example system 300 is disclosed
for performing operations in relation to presentation of a
real-time insurance rate. A collection component 202 can gather
information, an analysis component 104 evaluate at least a portion
of the collected information, and the rendering component 106 can
determine how to manipulate an interface based upon the evaluation.
According to one embodiment, the collection component 202 can
obtain information from local sources (e.g., a speed sensor, an
internal cabin microphone, etc.), remote sources (e.g., weather
stations), dedicated sources (e.g., a database of driver history),
and the like. The analysis component 104 can be employed that
evaluates at least a portion of the obtained metadata (e.g., a
result of the evaluation is used by the rendering component to
render the real-time insurance rates on the display). The
evaluation can include statistical comparison, inputting of
metadata into a model, predictive analysis, etc. Moreover, the
manipulation can include changing a number upon the interface,
changing a color of an interface element, turning the interface on
or off, etc. Additionally, a rate component 304 can be used to
determine a real-time insurance rate (e.g., make the determination
based on a result of the analysis).
[0036] An assessment component 306 can be used that appraises
real-time vehicle operation (e.g., if a vehicle is speeding, rapid
acceleration, frequent braking) or at least one contextual factor
related to current vehicle operation. The assessment component 306
can function as part of a cellular telephone, radio frequency
identifier, keyfob, or a combination thereof, as well as others.
The at least one contextual factor can include traffic level (e.g.,
heavy traffic, light traffic, speed of surrounding traffic, driver
history of surrounding traffic, etc.). Depending on if there is
heavy traffic, risk can change and thus influence the rate. The
factor can also include a number of passengers in the vehicle
(e.g., identity of passengers, if there are passengers,
characteristics of the passengers, etc.). Different risk factors
can be associated with children in comparison to adults and be used
in rate calculation. Another factor can include a status of an
operator related to engagement of a cellular telephone
communication--if a user is on a cellular call, then a rate can be
increased. A further factor includes time of day, such that if
driving occurs at night visibility can be lowered and a different
rate applied. Yet another factor includes weather--this can include
pure weather (e.g., rainy roads, snow that limits visibility, a
clear day) as well as how an operator reacts to a weather condition
(e.g., historically, if a user is slowing to compensate for low
traction, etc.). A further factor can be history of a neighborhood
that the vehicle travels through; this can relate to operation as
well as to real-time insurance for vandalism, theft, etc. If the
user parks a car overnight in a high crime area with high history
of car thefts, then a rate can be increased. Another contextual
factor considered can be intended destination of the operator and
context surrounding the destination. For example, if a user is a
student that is headed to a class and she is late, then there is a
higher likelihood of her driving recklessly and thus the rate can
be increased. Yet another factor can include real-time condition of
the vehicle. In one example, if tire pressure is low, then there
can be an inference that there is a higher likelihood of an
accident and thus a rate should be increased. A combination of
these factors as well as other factors can be used. The assessment
component 306 can also be used to weigh different factors against
one another to determine if an operator is overall being safe or
unsafe. A calculation component 308 can be used that determines the
insurance rate that is rendered based upon an outcome of the
appraisal and the evaluation.
[0037] A disclosure component 310 can provide a real-time insurance
rate to a user (e.g., operating a vehicle passenger or operator, as
a pedestrian, etc.), such as through display (e.g., an interactive
interface)--thus, the disclosure component 310 can produce the
display. A non-exhaustive list of disclosure components include a
display screen, touch screen, speaker system, virtual reality
environment, Braille production system, printer, etc. In addition,
the disclosure component 310 can present information (e.g., through
the display) in multiple formats, such as showing a video with
audio capabilities. Moreover, the disclosure component 310, as well
as other components disclosed in the subject specification can
implement upon a personal electronic device (e.g., cellular
telephone, personal digital assistant, etc.), upon a vehicle (e.g.,
automobile, motorcycle, bicycle, airplane, helicopter, motorboat,
self-balancing transportation device, etc.), etc.
[0038] The disclosure component 310 can include a personalization
component 312 and/or an integration component 314--however, it is
to be appreciated that the personalization component 312 and/or
integration component 314 can function as independent entities
(e.g., not implement upon the disclosure component 310). The
personalization component 312 can be used to enable a user to
modify the display (e.g., interface). The modification can include
information displayed upon the interface (e.g., which items are
disclosed, such as rate, target speed, etc.), location of
information displayed upon the interface (e.g., formatting what is
shown where), where the interface displays (e.g., on a dashboard,
in a heads-up display, integrated as part of a navigation system,
etc.), or a combination thereof, as well as others, such as color
or theme of the interface.
[0039] The disclosure component 310 can produce the display with
driving feedback information (e.g., real-time feedback, a
collective summary of a journey of how a user can improve vehicle
operation to lower an insurance rate, etc.). The produced display
can also include an indicator showing at least one standard that is
used to achieve an insurance rate modification (e.g., a target
speed the driver should keep under). Another rendering can include
a status of at least one standard that is used to achieve an
insurance rate modification (e.g., if the user has exceeded the
standard). A combination of these as well as other factors can be
used.
[0040] Now referring to FIG. 4, an example system 400 is shown for
presenting insurance information to an operator. A vehicle 402 can
include a device 404 that displays information in relation to
insurance associated with the vehicle 402. Depending on a real-time
rate used, the display can change indicating to an operator how
current conditions influence the rate. The device 402 can include a
color element 404 that varies in color across a spectrum. Moreover,
the device 402 can include a variable component 406 that displays
at least one color across the spectrum to indicate a current
driving condition. The device 404 can be located in a driver's
viewing range during operation of the vehicle 402. The device 404
can also prominently display a name of the insuring company
providing coverage to make the feature of variable rate insurance
visible to the driver and passengers in the vehicle.
[0041] According to one embodiment, the current driving condition
is a function of a safe operation or an unsafe operation of the
vehicle (e.g., travelling speed, distance from other vehicles,
etc.). A safe operation can be indicated at the first end of the
spectrum and the unsafe operation can be indicated at the second
end of the spectrum. Moreover, the safe operation or the unsafe
operation of the vehicle can be determined based on vehicle
telemetrics of the vehicle 402 (e.g., if drivers are wearing safety
belts, if a radio is playing, if an oil change is due, etc.), an
insurer's network 410 (e.g., driver history, overall company
liability, liability against premiums, etc.), public information
sources 412 (e.g., weather channels, police public communications,
etc.), or combinations thereof, as well as others. The device 404
can be located within a dashboard of the vehicle 402, as well as on
a personal electronic device, another part of the vehicle, etc.
[0042] There can be a device 404 that is placed on (or integral to)
a vehicle's dashboard (or other location in a vehicle 402) without
posing a significant risk of distraction. For example, the driver
could be able to perceive the device while driving and without
having to take an undue amount of concentration off the road and/or
the driving environment (e.g., other drivers, pedestrians, and so
forth). The device can include color elements, such as Light
Emitting Diodes (LED) or other light producing means, that can vary
in color across a spectrum (e.g., from red to green, from a dark
shade of color to a lighter shade of color, and so forth) to
indicate how safely a vehicle is being driven. The device 404 can
convey to the driver the safe (or unsafe) operating condition of
the vehicle 402 in real-time, which can influence the driver's
behavior (e.g., cause the driver to slow down if the driver is
speeding). The details related to how safely the vehicle is being
driven can be based upon data from the vehicle's telemetrics (e.g.,
speed of the vehicle, braking characteristics, and so forth), the
insurer's network 410, and/or public information sources 412 (e.g.,
weather conditions, construction areas, current accidents or road
congestion, and so forth).
[0043] 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). 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). 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) how safely the vehicle is being driven. For example, the colors
can represent operating cost, environmental impact, and/or other
factors that might be of interest to the driver.
[0044] The device 404 can include a color element (with LEDs or
other technology) that varies from red to green across the hue
spectrum that represents how safely a vehicle is being driven based
upon data from the vehicle's telemetrics, an insurer's network, and
public information sources and that can be placed on the vehicle's
dashboard without significant risk of distraction. The device can
be relocated to become an element of the vehicle's dashboard or
control display systems. In addition to a continuous red to green
scale a blue element can be included in the display to indicate
when there is no information available about factor of interest
(e.g., safety, operating cost, environmental impact, etc.). As
opposed to using a hue, relative brightness can also be used by the
color element.
[0045] Now referring to FIG. 5, an example methodology 500 is shown
for presenting information related to a real-time insurance rate.
Metadata can be collected at action 502 pertaining to real-time
operation of a vehicle and at least a portion of the metadata can
be evaluated at act 504. The metadata can include contextual
information, driver history, and real-time driving information that
relates to operation of a vehicle, as well as other metadata. Based
upon a result of the evaluation, there can be calculation a
real-time insurance rate at event 506.
[0046] A determination can be made at event 508 on how to present
the calculated rate. For example, the determination can be if the
rate should be shown on a center console or a heads-up display. A
determination can also be made on how to display data (e.g., if a
numerical rate should be disclosed or a color element should be
lit). Additionally, a determination can be made on other data to
disclose, such as safety, environment impact, cost of operating
vehicle, a target speed, group rank, and the like. The determined
rate and other determined data can be presented through a display
at act 510. Thus, the determined rate is presented upon a display
viewable to an operator or passenger of a vehicle.
[0047] A check 512 can determine if feedback should be presented to
the user--the feedback can be supplied in real-time as well as be a
collective summary presented after a driving session is complete.
If no feedback should be presented, then the methodology 500 can
end at act 514. In one instance, if there is a new driver
attempting to obtain a full drivers license (e.g., teenage driver)
or newer driver, then the check 512 can determine feedback should
be automatically provided. In another embodiment, an operator can
be solicited on if feedback should be presented--depending on a
response the methodology 500 can end or continue.
[0048] Operation of the vehicle can be evaluated at act 516, which
can occur though different embodiments. As a user operates a
vehicle, metadata can be collected and evaluated in real-time. In
an alternative embodiment, data can be collected, but evaluation
does not occur until the check 512 determines feedback should be
presented. At action 518, there can be determining feedback for
suggesting future driving actions for the operator to perform in
future driving to lower the insurance rate. The methodology 500 can
include presenting the feedback (e.g., through the display, through
a printout, transferring feedback as part of e-mail or a text
message, etc.) at action 520. The feedback can be directly related
to a driving session as well as be an aggregate analysis of overall
driving performance (e.g., over multiple driving sessions).
[0049] Now referring to FIG. 6, an example methodology 600 is shown
for providing an advertisement in conjunction with real-time
insurance metadata. Metadata related to calculating a real-time
insurance rate can be collected at event 602. At action 604, there
can be evaluating contextual information, driver history, and
real-time driving information that relates to operation of the
vehicle. Calculating a real-time insurance rate based upon a result
of the evaluation can occur though action 606 (e.g., the determined
rate is presented upon a display viewable to an operator or
passenger of a vehicle).
[0050] An interface can ultimately be used to disclose a calculated
rate to an operator and at event 608 there can be formatting of the
interface. The formatting can include color scheme, font used,
brightness, where items should be shown, which items should be
shown, etc. Additionally, an advertisement (e.g., paid
announcement, commercial message encouraging a user to make a
purchase, etc.) can be disclosed to a user. The advertisement can
include a coupon, a trademark (e.g., logo of a providing insurance
company), a song and/or audio message, and others.
[0051] A check 610 can occur to determine if an advertisement
should be disclosed with the interface (e.g., as part of the
interface). Factors that can be used in determining if the
advertisement should be disclosed can include likelihood of
effectiveness, amount of overall advertisement exposure, meeting of
contract requirements, etc. Potential advertisements can be
identified and there can be analysis of those advertisements at act
612. The analysis can include comparing an audience (e.g., operator
and passengers in the vehicle) against advertisements designed to
influence the audience. Therefore, an audience for the
advertisement can be determined at action 614. In an alternative
implementation, the analysis of act 612 and determination of action
614 are used to determine if an advertisement should be disclosed
(e.g., check 610). At event 616, there can be selecting an
advertisement to disclose along with the determined rate and the
advertisement can be integrated upon the interface at act 618.
[0052] If the check 610 determines an advertisement should not be
disclosed or if the advertisement is integrated, then the interface
can be disclosed at action 620 and as such the selected
advertisement can be presented with the determined rate. According
to one embodiment, the display of the vehicle is physically
integrated upon a dashboard of the vehicle, is a heads-up display,
is located within the vehicle, or a combination thereof, as well as
other. In a further embodiment, the display can be an interactive
interface, upon which an operator can engage the interface and be
presented information on rationale for the rate (e.g., an
algorithm, factors used, etc.), how the operator can improve the
rate, how the operator compares against other operators, or a
combination thereof, or other information.
[0053] A regression-based method (e.g., an embodiment of
methodology 600) can be used for reducing complex multi-dimensional
data available through the insurer's network to a single or small
number of values that can be represented as color(s) produced by
LEDs and representing how safely the vehicle is being driven that
can be placed on a vehicle's dashboard without significant risk of
distraction. The method can be flexible as to a color's meaning so
that in addition to representing safety, can be made to represent
operating cost, environmental impact, or other factors of interest
to the vehicle's driver. Also, the method can mathematical
alternatives to regression-based approaches to improve the accuracy
of assessments. Additionally, the method can use using a variable
defined by the vehicle's driver to combine factors that are
considered important (such as weighing safety, cost and
environmental impact, for example or indicating how much like their
normal driving pattern they are currently driving). Statistical
information about the surrounding area can also be used to indicate
how safe it is to leave the vehicle unattended in its current
location (parking the vehicle).
[0054] Now referring to FIG. 7, an example methodology 700 is shown
for selecting an insurance carrier. Different configurations can be
used to provide insurance coverage in real time. For example, a
journey can be evaluated (e.g., through an entered intended
destination of a navigation system) and different parts of the
journey can be covered by different companies (e.g., highways
covered by company A, city roads by company B). Conversely, one
company can cover an entire journey or span of time as well as
companies continuously changed based upon different factors (e.g.,
if the person speeds, company X is cheaper and the switch
automatically occurs). Additionally, a user can be requested to
affirm a change in insurance company (e.g., explicitly, approve of
the process before a journey, etc.)
[0055] Since there can be different insurance companies offering
coverage, then an auction configuration can be used for company
selection. A request for a bids can take place at action 702, such
as at a start of a time period, a start of a journey (e.g., before
starting, upon starting, and the like). Different insurance
companies can determine if they want to submit bids and transfer
acceptance to the request--the acceptance can be collected at act
704. Metadata can be provided to accepting companies (e.g.,
transferred to the companies, made accessible to the companies,
etc.) at event 706. Since the metadata can be personal and
sensitive in nature, access can be limited in disclosure (e.g.,
limited to accepting companies).
[0056] Companies can evaluate the metadata provided as well as
information from other sources and determine a rate or a rate model
(e.g., based on factors, such as speeding, different rates for
coverage). The bids can be received at action 708 and evaluated at
event 710--a bid can include one coverage option as well as
different options that can be selected (e.g., M coverage or K
coverage). In an alternative configuration, metadata disclosure is
not restricted and the bidding can be a more open competition.
[0057] A check 712 can be run to determine if there is a qualifying
bid. A configuration can be such that an operator or vehicle has a
default insurance carrier and the bidding is used to determine if
there is a company and/or bid that is better than the default.
Thus, if there is no qualifying bid (e.g., a bid that is better
than the default), then the standard carrier can be used at act
714. However, insurance coverage can be implemented such that there
is no standard carrier used and a best bid can be used in coverage
selection. At event 716, there can be selecting of a bid to use for
vehicle or operator coverage--more than one bid can be selected to
cover the user and selection can be performed automatically (e.g.,
through use of artificial intelligence techniques). Messages can be
transferred to at least one winning as well as other companies at
act 718. The interface can be configured based upon the winning bid
(e.g., based upon how a winner instructs, with information
consistent with the bid such as standards and rates, etc.) at
action 720 and the interface can be presented to an operator of a
vehicle.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 8, an example methodology 800 is disclosed
for supplying a rate for insurance coverage. While insurance
calculation can be performed at a vehicle, a company can determine
a rate or rate structure available to a vehicle or operator. The
insurance company can employ software to monitor vehicle operation
and identify an opportunity to provide insurance at action 802.
[0059] At event 804, there can be collecting the contextual
information, driver history metadata, and real-time driving
information (e.g., the collection is evaluated and used in
calculating the real-time rate). There can also be evaluating
contextual information, driver history information, and real-time
driving information that relates to operation of a vehicle at act
806 (e.g., at least a portion of the information is retained upon
physical storage). A check 808 can be used to determine if the
opportunity should be pursued (e.g., based upon a result of the
evaluation). If it is determined that the opportunity should not be
pursued, then the methodology can return to action 802 to identify
another opportunity.
[0060] At action 810, there can be calculating a real-time
insurance rate based upon a result of the evaluation (e.g., the
determined rate is presented upon a display viewable to an operator
or passenger of a vehicle). The real-time rate can be supplied at
event 812, such as through transferring the rate to a requesting
vehicle. The rate can include a rate structure for what to charge
an operator based on different situations as well as be a model
supplied that can be used locally (e.g., at the vehicle) to
determine a real-time rate.
[0061] A check 814 can be performed to determine if the rate is
such that an entity accepts the rate for the rate to be in effect.
For example, the insurance company can globally provide for a
vehicle (e.g., through a time-based contract) and the rate can be
automatically implemented since the company provides the global
rate--thus the rate is specific to a situation and the identified
opportunity is an opportunity to provide a different and/or more
accurate rate.
[0062] If there should be acceptance before providing coverage
(e.g., based upon a result of the check 814), then a determination
can be made on if there is acceptance at event 816. For example,
event 816 can include waiting a time for a response, obtaining the
response (e.g., to the bid) and evaluating the response to
determine if there is acceptance. Acceptance can be affirmed at act
818 and coverage can be provided (e.g., if acceptance is not
required, if acceptance is affirmed, etc.) at action 820. In an
alternative embodiment, if acceptance is not received (e.g., there
is a rejection, a timer expires, etc.), then the methodology 800
can return to action 802 to identifying another opportunity.
[0063] For purposes of simplicity of explanation, methodologies
that can be implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter were shown and described as a series of blocks. However, it
is to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter
is not limited by the order of the blocks, as some blocks can occur
in different orders and/or concurrently with other blocks from what
is depicted and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated
blocks can be required to implement the methodologies described
hereinafter. Additionally, it should be further appreciated that
the methodologies disclosed throughout this specification are
capable of being stored on an article of manufacture to facilitate
transporting and transferring such methodologies to computers. The
term article of manufacture, as used, is intended to encompass a
computer program accessible from any computer-readable device,
carrier, or media.
[0064] In order to provide a context for the various aspects of the
disclosed subject matter, FIGS. 9 and 10 as well as the following
discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of
a suitable environment in which the various aspects of the
disclosed subject matter can be implemented. While the subject
matter has been described above in the general context of
computer-executable instructions of a program that runs on one or
more computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the
subject matter described herein also can be implemented in
combination with other program modules. Generally, program modules
include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc. that
perform particular tasks and/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, multiprocessor or
multi-core processor computer systems, mini-computing devices,
mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held
computing devices (e.g., personal digital assistant (PDA), phone,
watch . . . ), microprocessor-based or programmable consumer or
industrial electronics, and the like. The illustrated aspects can
also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks
are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through
a communications network. However, some, if not all aspects of the
claimed subject matter can be practiced on stand-alone computers.
In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be
located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
[0065] In accordance with at least one aspect, the disclose
innovation relates to consolidating, analyzing, and presenting
information that results from the acquisition and handling of data
for an insured unit of risk. Thus, there can be presenting a
qualitative representation of summary data that can be derived from
data that is being gathered primarily to calculate the cost of
insurance in real time. Using a color scale (e.g., from red to
green across the hue spectrum) to summarize real-time data on road,
vehicle and traffic conditions, driving technique, and location,
there can be a visual assessment of safety continuously available
to a driver or passenger.
[0066] Multivariate instrument optimization could be used to
combine numeric inputs to create a rapidly perceived display. A
regression-based approach, which can be implemented in accordance
with at least one aspect disclosed herein, combines the inputs, and
can produce an output that summarizes them along one or a few
important dimensions; that output can be converted to a hue.
[0067] The hue scale could vary from green (e.g., used when
conditions are especially safe) through yellows and oranges to red
(e.g., when they are especially dangerous). The hue scale could
also turn blue when the car is off the network or the data coming
from the vehicle cannot be evaluated at a reasonable standard of
accuracy.
[0068] In one illustrative embodiment, the device uses three
light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (e.g., red, green and blue) or similar
devices mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) and driven by
logic on that board that interprets a digital output coming from
the vender's under dash unit. An on-board circuit could, such as
based on that value, adjust the LEDs so that together they produce
the appropriate color to represent current conditions. The PCB
could also be enclosed in an attractive disk-shaped acrylic
package, suitable for placement on the dashboard of the vehicle.
The package could be embossed with the name and logo of the
insurance carrier and connect to the vendor's under-dash unit with
a simple chord.
[0069] At least one aspect disclosed herein can allow the
automobile insurance industry to take advantage of information
about a vehicle's location and conditions of operation to assess
risk dynamically and thereby adjust insurance rates. Aspects
disclosed can function in conjunction with devices that collect and
integrate information as black boxes (e.g., that operate either
outside of the user's visual awareness or that provide feedback
through web pages or GPS (global positioning system) displays).
[0070] Use of a black box along can be limited such that the box
renders the service invisible to the insurance consumer most of the
time. A limitation of a complex display could be that it adds a set
of controls to those the driver must already contend with, thereby
relegating their use to times when the operator is not actually
driving or increasing the prospects of driver distraction.
[0071] The disclosed innovation contemplates a new way of
summarizing the information and presenting it in the form of an
attractive and simple device that would emit a soft glow reflecting
the safety (or cost, environmental impact, or similar) of the
current driving situation. Therefore, there can be benefit of
making the insurance carrier visible to the driver and passengers
of the vehicle.
[0072] Thus, there can be a method of extending an insurer's
visibility to its customers while providing the customers with
valuable feedback on how safely they are driving a vehicle includes
a dashboard mounted display and an approach to summarizing multiple
dimension data using a continuous color scale.
[0073] Referring now to FIG. 9, there is illustrated a schematic
block diagram of a computing environment 900 in accordance with the
subject specification. 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 specification, for example.
[0074] 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 specification, 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
can 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.
[0075] Communications can be facilitated via 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.
[0076] Referring now to FIG. 10, there is illustrated a block
diagram of a computer operable to execute the disclosed
architecture. In order to provide additional context for various
aspects of the subject specification, FIG. 10 and the following
discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of
a suitable computing environment 1000 in which the various aspects
of the specification can be implemented. While the specification
has been described above in the general context of
computer-executable instructions that can run on one or more
computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the
specification also can be implemented in combination with other
program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and
software.
[0077] 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.
[0078] The illustrated aspects of the specification can 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.
[0079] 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 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 versatile 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.
[0080] Communication media typically embody 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 include 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.
[0081] With reference again to FIG. 10, the example environment
1000 for implementing various aspects of the specification includes
a computer 1002, the computer 1002 including a processing unit
1004, a system memory 1006 and a system bus 1008. The system bus
1008 couples system components including, but not limited to, the
system memory 1006 to the processing unit 1004. The processing unit
1004 can be any of various commercially available processors or
proprietary specific configured processors. Dual microprocessors
and other multi-processor architectures can also be employed as the
processing unit 1004.
[0082] The system bus 1008 can be any of several types of bus
structure that can 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 1006 includes read-only memory (ROM) 1010 and
random access memory (RAM) 1012. A basic input/output system (BIOS)
is stored in a non-volatile memory 1010 such as ROM, EPROM, EEPROM,
which BIOS contains the basic routines that help to transfer
information between elements within the computer 1002, such as
during start-up. The RAM 1012 can also include a high-speed RAM
such as static RAM for caching data.
[0083] The computer 1002 further includes an internal hard disk
drive (HDD) 1014 (e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal hard disk drive
1014 can also be configured for external use in a suitable chassis
(not shown), a magnetic floppy disk drive (FDD) 1016, (e.g., to
read from or write to a removable diskette 1018) and an optical
disk drive 1020, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk 1022 or, to read from
or write to other high capacity optical media such as the DVD). The
hard disk drive 1014, magnetic disk drive 1016 and optical disk
drive 1020 can be connected to the system bus 1008 by a hard disk
drive interface 1024, a magnetic disk drive interface 1026 and an
optical drive interface 1028, respectively. The interface 1024 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 subject specification.
[0084] The drives and their associated computer-readable media
provide nonvolatile storage of data, data structures,
computer-executable instructions, and so forth. For the computer
1002, 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,
can also be used in the example operating environment, and further,
that any such media can contain computer-executable instructions
for performing the methods of the specification.
[0085] A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and
RAM 1012, including an operating system 1030, one or more
application programs 1032, other program modules 1034 and program
data 1036. All or portions of the operating system, applications,
modules, and/or data can also be cached in the RAM 1012. It is
appreciated that the specification can be implemented with various
proprietary or commercially available operating systems or
combinations of operating systems.
[0086] A user can enter commands and information into the computer
1002 through one or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a
keyboard 1038 and a pointing device, such as a mouse 1040. Other
input devices (not shown) can 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 1004 through an input device interface 1042 that is
coupled to the system bus 1008, 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.
[0087] A monitor 1044 or other type of display device is also
connected to the system bus 1008 via an interface, such as a video
adapter 1046. In addition to the monitor 1044, a computer typically
includes other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as
speakers, printers, etc.
[0088] The computer 1002 can operate in a networked environment
using logical connections via wired and/or wireless communications
to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer(s) 1048.
The remote computer(s) 1048 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 1002, although, for
purposes of brevity, only a memory/storage device 1050 is
illustrated. The logical connections depicted include
wired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN) 1052
and/or larger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN) 1054. Such
LAN and WAN networking environments are commonplace in offices and
companies, and facilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such
as intranets, all of which can connect to a global communications
network, e.g., the Internet.
[0089] When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 1002
is connected to the local network 1052 through a wired and/or
wireless communication network interface or adapter 1056. The
adapter 1056 can facilitate wired or wireless communication to the
LAN 1052, which can also include a wireless access point disposed
thereon for communicating with the wireless adapter 1056.
[0090] When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 1002
can include a modem 1058, or is connected to a communications
server on the WAN 1054, or has other means for establishing
communications over the WAN 1054, such as by way of the Internet.
The modem 1058, which can be internal or external and a wired or
wireless device, is connected to the system bus 1008 via the input
device interface 1042. In a networked environment, program modules
depicted relative to the computer 1002, or portions thereof, can be
stored in the remote memory/storage device 1050. It will be
appreciated that the network connections shown are example and
other means of establishing a communications link between the
computers can be used.
[0091] The computer 1002 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, restroom), 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.
[0092] Wi-Fi, or Wireless Fidelity, allows connection to the
Internet from a couch at home, a bed in a hotel room, or a
conference room 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.
[0093] The aforementioned systems have been described with respect
to interaction among several components. It should be appreciated
that such systems and components can include those components or
sub-components specified therein, some of the specified components
or sub-components, and/or additional components. Sub-components can
also be implemented as components communicatively coupled to other
components rather than included within parent components.
Additionally, it should be noted that one or more components could
be combined into a single component providing aggregate
functionality. The components could also interact with one or more
other components not specifically described herein but known by
those of skill in the art.
[0094] As used herein, the terms to "infer" or "inference" refer
generally to the process of reasoning about or deducing states of
the system, environment, and/or user from a set of observations as
captured via events 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.
[0095] Furthermore, the claimed subject matter can 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 subject matter. The term
"article of manufacture" 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, key drive . . . ).
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
can be made to this configuration without departing from the scope
or spirit of the claimed subject matter.
[0096] Moreover, the word "exemplary" is used herein 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 disclose
concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the
term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an
exclusive "or". That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from
context, "X employs A or B" is intended to mean any of the natural
inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X
employs both A and B, then "X employs A or B" is satisfied under
any of the foregoing instances. 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 context to be directed to a singular
form.
[0097] What has been described above includes examples of the
subject specification. It is, of course, not possible to describe
every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for
purposes of describing the subject specification, but one of
ordinary skill in the art can recognize that many further
combinations and permutations of the subject specification are
possible. Accordingly, the subject specification is intended to
embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that
fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Furthermore, to the extent that the term "includes" is used in
either the detailed description or the claims, such term is
intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term
"comprising" as "comprising" is interpreted when employed as a
transitional word in a claim.
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