U.S. patent application number 17/408514 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-09 for system and method for measurement of container content quantity and analysis of same.
This patent application is currently assigned to Nectar, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Nectar, Inc.. Invention is credited to Prabhanjan C. GURUMOHAN, Aayush PHUMBHRA.
Application Number | 20210382027 17/408514 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005795088 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210382027 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GURUMOHAN; Prabhanjan C. ;
et al. |
December 9, 2021 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT OF CONTAINER CONTENT QUANTITY AND
ANALYSIS OF SAME
Abstract
A system and method are disclosed for quantity analysis. A
quantity identification of an amount of content included in a
container is received from a container cover of the container. The
quantity identification is analyzed along with a history of past
quantity identifications received from the container cover over
time to determine an analysis result. An action associated with the
content of the container is performed based on the analysis result.
A system and method are disclosed that include one or more devices
that help users track remaining quantity and expiration of food
(e.g., including beverages).
Inventors: |
GURUMOHAN; Prabhanjan C.;
(Mountain View, CA) ; PHUMBHRA; Aayush; (Palo
Alto, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nectar, Inc. |
Palo Alto |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Nectar, Inc.
Palo Alto
CA
|
Family ID: |
1000005795088 |
Appl. No.: |
17/408514 |
Filed: |
August 23, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14676432 |
Apr 1, 2015 |
11099166 |
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17408514 |
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14627719 |
Feb 20, 2015 |
10072964 |
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14676432 |
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62093890 |
Dec 18, 2014 |
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62006419 |
Jun 2, 2014 |
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61975337 |
Apr 4, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01D 11/24 20130101;
G01F 23/2962 20130101; G06Q 10/087 20130101; G01N 33/02
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01N 33/02 20060101
G01N033/02; G01D 11/24 20060101 G01D011/24; G06Q 10/08 20060101
G06Q010/08 |
Claims
1. A system comprising: a communication interface configured to
receive from a container cover of a container a quantity
identification of an amount of content included in the container;
and a processor coupled with the communication interface and
configured to: analyze the quantity identification to determine an
analysis result; and perform an action associated with the content
of the container based on the analysis result.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No.
11,099,166 (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/676,432 and filed
on Apr. 1, 2015) entitled CONTAINER CONTENT QUANTITY MEASUREMENT
AND ANALYSIS and issued on Aug. 24, 2021, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 10,072,964 (U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/627,719 and filed Feb. 20, 2015) entitled
CONTAINER FILL LEVEL MEASUREMENT AND MANAGEMENT and issued on Sep.
11, 2018 and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application
No. 62/093,890 entitled CONTAINER FILL LEVEL MEASUREMENT AND
MANAGEMENT filed Dec. 18, 2014 and claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/006,419 entitled SYSTEM AND
METHODS FOR FOOD AND BEVERAGE TRACKING, REPLENISHMENT AND
CONSUMPTION MANAGEMENT filed Jun. 2, 2014 and claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/975,337 entitled SYSTEMS
AND METHODS FOR CONSUMER FOOD AND NUTRITION MANAGEMENT filed Apr.
4, 2014 and, both of which are incorporated herein by reference for
all purposes.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Often food distribution requires individuals, families, and
households to make repeated visits to a brick and mortar grocery
store to shop for dairy, fresh produce, and staples. Although
delivery services exists, utilization of these services often
require a manual intervention from the user to check the remaining
quantity of food and beverages and make a conscious effort to
reorder desired items. Often consumers either waste food due to
excess or a failure to buy what's needed at the right time.
Therefore what is needed is a system and method that helps users
track remaining quantity of food or beverage in a container.
SUMMARY
[0003] A system and method are disclosed that include one or more
devices help users track remaining quantity and expiration of food
(e.g., including beverages). These include a new container cover
(e.g., bottle cap) for containers (e.g., bags, food containers,
boxes, bags, etc.), clips, stickers (e.g., touch sensitive),
markers, patches, and a receipt scanner. The container cover and
scanner may help consumers track the food quantities included in
the container and transmit them to a cloud based analysis system.
The analysis system in turn may identify and associate the food
quantity and expiration with food and beverages owned by a unique
consumer who has been associated with registered devices. In some
embodiments, the analysis system learns the consumption pattern and
nutrients of the food items being tracked and also learns the
consumer interests in various types of foods, food preferences and
their health preferences.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the
following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.
[0005] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a fill
level sensor engaged in a container.
[0006] FIG. 2A is a vertical cross-sectional diagram illustrating
an embodiment of a fill level sensor.
[0007] FIG. 2B is a vertical cross-sectional diagram illustrating
an alternative embodiment of a fill level sensor.
[0008] FIGS. 3A-3B are bottom view diagrams illustrating
embodiments of a fill level sensor.
[0009] FIGS. 4A-4C are profile diagrams illustrating embodiments of
a fill level sensor.
[0010] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing alternative embodiments of a
waveguide.
[0011] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a receiver extension tube.
[0012] FIGS. 7A-7C show various container covers that may be
similarly configured to include one or more of the components shown
in other figures.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a system diagram illustrating components of an
example food management ecosystem.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a
container cover.
[0015] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a patch
of a container.
[0016] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a receipt
scanner.
[0017] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a mobile
application interface.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including
as a process; an apparatus; a system; a composition of matter; a
computer program product embodied on a computer readable storage
medium; and/or a processor, such as a processor configured to
execute instructions stored on and/or provided by a memory coupled
to the processor. In this specification, these implementations, or
any other form that the invention may take, may be referred to as
techniques. In general, the order of the steps of disclosed
processes may be altered within the scope of the invention. Unless
stated otherwise, a component such as a processor or a memory
described as being configured to perform a task may be implemented
as a general component that is temporarily configured to perform
the task at a given time or a specific component that is
manufactured to perform the task. As used herein, the term
`processor` refers to one or more devices, circuits, and/or
processing cores configured to process data, such as computer
program instructions.
[0019] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the
invention is provided below along with accompanying figures that
illustrate the principles of the invention. The invention is
described in connection with such embodiments, but the invention is
not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention is
limited only by the claims and the invention encompasses numerous
alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. Numerous specific
details are set forth in the following description in order to
provide a thorough understanding of the invention. These details
are provided for the purpose of example and the invention may be
practiced according to the claims without some or all of these
specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technical material
that is known in the technical fields related to the invention has
not been described in detail so that the invention is not
unnecessarily obscured.
[0020] In some embodiments, one or more devices help users track
remaining quantity and expiration of food (e.g., including
beverages). These include a new container cover (e.g., bottle cap)
for containers (e.g., bags, food containers, boxes, bags, etc.),
clips, stickers (e.g., touch sensitive), markers, patches, and a
receipt scanner. The container cover and scanner may help consumers
track the food quantities included in the container and transmit
them to a cloud based analysis system. The analysis system in turn
may identify and associate the food quantity and expiration with
food and beverages owned by a unique consumer who has been
associated with registered devices. In some embodiments, the
analysis system learns the consumption pattern and nutrients of the
food items being tracked and also learns the consumer interests in
various types of foods, food preferences and their health
preferences.
[0021] The analysis system may transmit notifications to consumer
mobile devices via a mobile application installed/accessed on the
mobile devices. The mobile application may inform the user about
quantity of food (e.g., quantity remaining), food expiration,
health improvements, recipes, and/or seasonal recommendations. It
may also offer a marketplace to order food from various sources,
including delivery services that offer the most convenient way to
receive the food. It may also provide recommendations on ordering
food/beverages that may be needed to prepare a certain recipe
that's based on seasonality, interests, and social recommendations.
The mobile application may also help remind and notify a user to
pick up certain food item when it is running low or about to
expire. For example, notification is provided when the user is
physically near a merchant where the food item can be obtained.
[0022] In some embodiments, a fill level sensor of a container
cover, clip, sticker, marker and/or patch measures the amount of
liquid contained in a container. In some embodiments, the fill
level sensor includes an acoustic transmitter located proximal to a
portion of a container cover that is configured to engage a
container opening. For example, the fill level sensor is included
in a cap of a bottle and includes a speaker that will transmit a
signal that will be utilized to measure a liquid fill level of the
bottle. In some embodiments, the fill level sensor also includes a
waveguide extending from the transmitter such that the waveguide
includes a distal end that is configured to be located within the
container interior when the container cover engages the container.
For example, the waveguide guides a signal transmitted by the
transmitter to a desired location and direction where the signal is
directed towards contents filling a container. The signal may
reflect off the container contents and arrive at a receiver of the
fill level sensor that analyzes the received reflected signal to
determine the fill level of the container.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a fill
level sensor engaged in a container. Container 102 is filled with a
liquid. In the example shown, fill level sensor 100 is configured
as a bottle cap with a spout. The liquid fill level of container
102 may be determined by measuring the distance between sensor 100
and the liquid surface of container 102. As shown by line 104, a
transmitter of sensor 100 sends out a signal (e.g., ultrasonic
signal) that gets reflected by the surface of the liquid. The
reflected signal is detected by a receiver of sensor 100.
[0024] By measuring the amount of time it took to receive the
reflected signal, the distance traveled by the signal before being
reflected (e.g., distance between sensor 100 and liquid surface is
half of the total distance traveled by the signal) may be
determined by multiplying the amount of time by the speed of the
signal (e.g., speed of sound).
[0025] In some embodiments, to determine the amount of time it took
to receive the reflected signal, the received reflected signal is
filtered to isolate the desired signal (e.g., band-pass filter the
received signal), amplified, and analyzed to detect peaks that
correspond to when the reflected signal was received. A
predetermined beginning portion (e.g., predetermined amount of time
in the beginning of the signal) of the received signal may be
ignored when analyzing the signal to ignore signals that were
detected due to coupling between the transmitter and receiver of
sensor 100. For example, when the transmitter transmits the signal,
the signal may be received by the receiver of sensor 100 (e.g.,
conducted through sensor 100, due to undesired reflection, etc.)
before the signal is reflected by the contents of the container,
and the undesired received signals received in the beginning
portion of the received signal are ignored when identifying the
desired received reflected signal.
[0026] If the total distance between the bottom of container 102
and sensor 100 is known, the fill height of container 102 can be
determined (e.g., total distance between bottom and sensor 100
minus distance between sensor 100 and liquid surface). If the shape
and volume of the bottle are known, the volume of liquid contained
in container 102 may be determined. Forexample, a
table/database/data structure that maps fill level (e.g., fill
height, height between liquid surface and sensor 100, etc.) to
liquid volume of the container is utilized to determine liquid
volume corresponding to the determined fill level. Different
tables/databases/data structures may exist for different types of
containers.
[0027] Sensor 100 includes a transmitter for transmitting the
reflected signal and a receiver for receiving the reflected signal.
However, due to the narrow opening of container 102, the placement
of the transmitter and receiver in sensor 100 is limited to the
narrow configuration of the bottle opening. If the transmitter and
receiver are placed too close together, the transmitter and
receiver may become coupled together. For example, the receiver may
receive a strong signal from the transmitter as soon as the
transmitter transmits a signal and the receiver may require a long
settling time before the receiver is able to detect the desired
reflected signal. If the distance between sensor 100 and the liquid
surface is small, the desired reflected signal may be received
before the receiver has settled and the receiver is unable to
detect the desired reflected signal. In some embodiments, the
transmitter and receiver of sensor 100 are vertically offset from
each other to create a desired amount of separation distance
between the transmitter and receiver. The separation distance may
reduce the coupling of the transmitter and receiver and allow
dampening of the transmitted signal propagated between the
transmitter and the receiver through sensor 100. However, the
vertical separation of the transmitter and the receiver may create
undesired reflections within the container (e.g., reflections from
the neck of a bottle) that make it difficult to identify the signal
reflected from the liquid surface. In some embodiments, awaveguide
extending from the transmitter is utilized to direct the signal
transmitted by the transmitter towards the desired direction and
location to minimize undesired effects.
[0028] FIG. 2A is a vertical cross-sectional diagram illustrating
an embodiment of a fill level sensor. In some embodiments, sensor
200 is sensor 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 2B is a vertical cross-sectional
diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of a fill level
sensor. In the examples shown, sensor 200 is configured as a bottle
stopper with a spout. As shown in FIG. 2A, sensor 200 includes
flexible container coupling ridges 220 (e.g., rubber rings) that
allows sensor 200 to be coupled to and seal an opening of a
container (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1). However, in other
embodiments, sensor 200 may be configured as a different cover of a
container. For example, the components of sensor 200 may be
included in a screw-on cap or anyother cap that engages a
container.
[0029] Sensor 200 includes circuit board 212. For example circuit
board 212 is a printed circuit board. Circuit board 212 may connect
together one or more of the following: a processor, a memory, a
data storage, a connector, an integrated chip, a transmitter, a
receiver, an accelerometer, a tilt sensor, a solar panel, a
display, a gyroscope, a wireless data communication signal
transmitter (e.g., a component able to communicate using Bluetooth,
Wi-Fi, other wireless protocol, etc.), and other electrical
components. For example, a processor connected to circuit board 212
provides a command to transmit an acoustic signal using a
transmitter and processes a received signal to determine a fill
level indicator. The fill level indicator may be transmitted
wirelessly to another device such as a mobile device, a computer, a
display device, or any other computing or display device using a
wireless data communication transmitter. Circuit board 212 is
connected to battery 206. Battery 206 provides power to the circuit
of circuit board 212.
[0030] Battery 206 may be rechargeable and/or replaceable. The
housing of sensor 200 may be composed of one or more materials.
Examples of the materials include a food grade polymer, plastic,
rubber, stainless steel, and other metals. Sensor 200 includes
spout 208. Spout 208 is a part of a channel (e.g., tube) that
allows container contents (e.g., liquid) to pass through to the tip
opening of spout 208 from a bottom of sensor 200. For example, a
liquid contained in a container that is capped by sensor 200 is
able to pass through sensor 200 and exit the opening of spout 208
when the container capped by sensor 200 is tipped over. In some
embodiments, circuit board 212 includes a hole that accommodates
the channel (e.g., tube) that allows container contents (e.g.,
liquid) to pass through the circuit board. In other embodiments,
spout 208 may not exist in sensor 200. In some embodiments, sensor
200 includes a vent pipe (not shown) that allows air to enter a
container capped by sensor 200 as a content of the container is
poured out through spout 208. In some embodiments, sensor 200
includes a motor (not shown) that pumps out contents of the
container capped by sensor 200.
[0031] Circuit board 212 is connected to transmitter 204. In some
embodiments, transmitter 204 is an acoustic transmitter (e.g.,
ultrasonic signal transmitter). For example, transmitter 204 is a
speaker. In some embodiments, transmitter 204 is a piezoelectric
speaker. Insome embodiments, transmitter 204 is configured to
transmit a signal within the ultrasonic frequencies. In some
embodiments, transmitter 204 is configured to transmit a signal
between 20 kHz and 400 kHz, inclusive. In some embodiments,
transmitter 204 is configured to transmit a 29 kHz signal. In some
embodiments, transmitter 204 is an acoustic impulse generator.
[0032] Receiver 214 is connected to circuit board 212 via connector
210. Examples of connector 210 include a wire, a bus, a flexible
printed circuit board, and any other connector able to transmit a
signal. In some embodiments, receiver 214 is an acoustic receiver
(e.g., ultrasonic signal receiver). In some embodiments, receiver
214 is a microphone. In some embodiments, receiver 214 is a
microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone. For example,
receiver 214 is 2 millimeter.times.3 millimeter in size.
[0033] Waveguide 202 extends from transmitter 204. For example,
waveguide 202 includes a hollow chamber (e.g., tube) that guides
and propagates an acoustic signal emitted by transmitter 204 from
one end of the chamber to the other end of the chamber. For
example, signal emitted by transmitter 204 enters waveguide 202 at
the signal input end of the hollow chamber and exits out its output
end of the hollow chamber (e.g., distal end). In some embodiments,
waveguide 202 aids in directing an acoustic signal (e.g.,
ultrasonic signal, acoustic impulse) emitted by transmitter 204
towards the direction of the distance to be measured (e.g., towards
bottom of sensor 200 that will be facing contents of a container
capped by sensor 200).
[0034] In some embodiments, it is desirable to reduce and/or
attempt to eliminate any signal reflections within the chamber of
waveguide 202 as the signal is guided from one end to the other end
of waveguide 202. For example, any undesired reflection may mask
and hinder detection of the signal reflected by container contents
desired to be detected. Any sudden change in the shape of the
hollow chamber may create an impedance mismatch that creates a
reflection within the hollow chamber of waveguide 202. In some
embodiments, the interior wall of the hollow chamber of waveguide
202 is substantially smooth to prevent impedance mismatches. In
some embodiments, a shape and/or size of a horizontal cross section
of waveguide 202 does not change by more than one percent per
millimeter of vertical distance between the signal input end
closest to transmitter 204 to the other signal output end (e.g.,
distal end). In some embodiments, a shape of the opening of one end
of the hollow chamber is different from a shape of the openingof
the other end of the hollow chamber. For example, a shape of an
opening of the transmitter may be different than a desired shape of
the signal output end of waveguide 202 (e.g., desired shape to
improve directionality of the signal in container). In one example,
the signal input end of the chamber of waveguide 202 is shaped in a
first shape (e.g., elliptical shape) and the output opening end of
the other end of the chamber of waveguide 202 is shaped in a second
shape (e.g., circular shape). The change in horizontal
cross-sectional shape of the hollow signal propagation chamber may
gradually morph from the first shape to the second shape across the
vertical length of waveguide 202. For example, the minor axis of
the elliptical shape signal input opening gradually is expanded
(e.g., flair out smoothly) to generally match the major axis of the
elliptical shape in the output end of waveguide 202.
[0035] In some embodiments, a cross-sectional area of a signal
output opening of the chamber of waveguide 202 is at least as large
as a cross-sectional area of a signal input opening of the other
end of the chamber of waveguide 202 that receives the signal from
transmitter 204. For example, the cross-sectional area of the
signal output opening of waveguide 202 is substantially equal to
the cross-sectional area of the signal input opening in one
embodiment. In another example, the cross-sectional area of the
signal output opening of waveguide 202 is greater than the
cross-sectional area of the signal input opening.
[0036] In some embodiments, the horizontal cross-sectional area of
the hollow chamber of waveguide 202 is only greater or equal to a
previous horizontal cross-sectional area of the hollow chamber from
the input opening to the output opening of waveguide 202. For
example, in order to ensure that the amplitude of an acoustic
signal outputted by transmitter 204 is maintained as much as
possible, the cross-sectional area of the chamber of waveguide 202
never decreases as the acoustic signal is traveling down the
chamber of waveguide 202. In some embodiments, the horizontal
cross-sectional area of the chamber of waveguide 202 is generally
increasing as the signal emitted by transmitter 204 travels down
waveguide 202 towards the distal end of waveguide 202.
[0037] In some embodiments, the interior hollow chamber of
waveguide 202 is coated with a dampening material. For example, an
acoustic signal dampening material (e.g., rubber like material)
coats plastic walls of the hollow chamber and the coating may
assist in reducing the amount of signal that gets transferred to
receiver 214 from the portion of the signal that impacts the walls
of the hollow chamber. In some embodiments, an interior chamber of
waveguide 200 is filled with an acoustically permeable material. In
some embodiments, an open end of waveguide 202 is touching
transmitter 204. For example, a rubberized end of waveguide 202
seals signals emitted by transmitter 204 within an air chamber of
waveguide 202. In some embodiments, a size of a signal input
opening of waveguide 202 near transmitter 204 is at least as large
as a transmitter opening of transmitter 204. For example,
transmitter 204 includes an opening where an acoustic signal is
outputted (e.g., speaker grill opening) and the opening of the
transmitter is positioned within the signal input opening of
waveguide 202 that is at least as large. In some embodiments, a
shape and size of a signal input opening of waveguide 202 near
transmitter 204 is substantially the same as a transmitter opening
of transmitter 204. In some embodiments, waveguide 202 is attached
to transmitter 204. For example, transmitter 204 and waveguide 202
are attached together by glue. In some embodiments, waveguide 202
is mechanically coupled totransmitter 204.
[0038] In some embodiments, a height of waveguide 202 (e.g.,
distance between the input and output openings) is approximately 20
millimeters. In some embodiments, a height of waveguide 202 (e.g.,
distance between the input and output openings) is approximately
less than or equal to 60 millimeters. In some embodiments, widths
of a hollow chamber of waveguide 202 (e.g., horizontal
cross-sectional area) is approximately less than or equal to 12
millimeters. In various embodiments, the shape, length, and width
of waveguide 202 may be any combination of shape, length and width
configurations and sizes.
[0039] In some embodiments, waveguide 202 is attached to receiver
chamber 222 of receiver 214. For example as shown, receiver 214 is
recessed in receiver chamber 222 area that is included/attached to
the side of waveguide 202. Waveguide 202 and receiver chamber 222
may be composed of the same or different materials. Examples of the
materials include a food grade polymer, plastic, rubber, stainless
steel, and other metals. In some embodiments, waveguide 202 is not
attached to receiver chamber 222. For example, receiver chamber 222
is attached to the housing of sensor 200 and not directly attached
to waveguide 202.
[0040] In some embodiments, a placement distance (e.g., vertical
distance) between transmitter 204 and receiver 214 is at least 0.6
millimeters. For example, by vertically offsetting the transmitter
204 and receiver 214, signal coupling between transmitter 204 and
receiver 214 through materials of sensor 200 is reduced and allows
better detection of a desired reflected signal received by receiver
214. In some embodiments, at least a portion of transmitter 204
horizontally overlaps receiver 214 in the horizontal position. For
example, due to their vertical offset, transmitter 204 is able to
horizontally overlap receiver 214 (e.g., at least a portion of
width of transmitter 204 overlaps at least a portion of width of
receiver 214). In some embodiments, the signal output opening of
waveguide 202 is substantially on the same vertical location as the
opening of receiver chamber 222. For example, by placing the signal
output opening of waveguide 202 on the same vertical location as
the opening of receiver chamber 222, an effect of a signal
reflection caused by the impedance mismatch of the output opening
of waveguide 202 on the detection of a desired received reflected
signal is minimized. In some embodiments, the signal output opening
of waveguide 202 is parallel to the opening of receiver chamber
222.
[0041] In some embodiments, because debris, liquid, and other
materials may enter the chamber of waveguide 202 and receiver
chamber 222 (e.g., when using spout 208 to pour out contents of the
container), the chamber of waveguide 202 and receiver chamber 222
are protected (e.g., to protect transmitter 204 and receiver 214).
In some embodiments, a protective layer material covers the output
opening of waveguide 202 and the opening of receiver chamber 222.
Ideally the protective material must not allow undesired material
through to the chambers while at the same time allowing signals
(e.g., acoustic signals) to pass through. Protective material 216
covers the output opening of waveguide 202 and is attached to the
opening edges ofwaveguide 202. Protective material 218 covers the
output opening of receiver chamber 222 and is attached to the
opening edges of receiver chamber 222. In some embodiments,
protective material 216 and protective material 218 are the same
continuous material. For example, a singleconnected sheet includes
both protective material 216 and protective material 218. In some
embodiments, protective material 216 and protective material 218
are not continuous materials. For example, in order to maximize
decoupling of the transmitted signal of transmitter 204 and the
received signal of receiver 214, protective material 216 and
protective material 218 are not made of the same continuous
material. In some embodiments, protective material 216 and
protective material 218 are different materials. Examples of
protective material 216 and protective material 218 include one or
more of the following: mylar sheet, waterproof mesh, acoustic
sheet, Teflon, Gortek and any other appropriate mesh or membrane.
For example, a mylar sheet covering does not allow liquid to pass
through while acting like a drum to allow acoustic signals to pass
through. In some embodiments, protective material 216 and/or
protective material 218 are acoustically transmissive liquid
blocking materials. In some embodiments, protective material 216
and/or protective material 218 are optional.
[0042] In an alternative embodiment, rather than utilizing a
separate transmitter and a separate receiver, a transceiver that
acts as both a receiver and transmitter is utilized. For example,
receiver 214 is not utilized and transmitter 204 is a transceiver
(e.g., piezoelectric transceiver).
[0043] FIGS. 3A-3B are bottom view diagrams illustrating
embodiments of a fill level sensor. Sensor 200 is sensor 200 of
FIG. 2A or 2B. Sensor 200 includes flexible ridges 220 (e.g.,
rubber rings) that allows sensor 200 to be coupled to and seal an
opening of a container (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2A).
Spout input opening 209 allows contents (e.g., liquid contents of a
container capped by sensor 200) that enter through spout input
opening 209 to be channeled and outputted through spout 208 (shown
in FIG. 2A). The signal output end of waveguide 202 is shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B. Receiver 214 is recessed inside receiver chamber
222. In some embodiments, protective material 216 covers the shown
output opening of waveguide 202 and is attached to the shown
opening edges of waveguide 202. In some embodiments, protective
material 218 covers the shown output opening of receiver chamber
222 and is attached to the shown opening edges of receiver chamber
222. Vent output opening 224 (e.g., opening of a vent pipe) allows
air to enter a container capped by sensor 200 as contents of the
container is poured out through spout input opening 209. In order
to show the internal components of various embodiments of sensor
200, one or more components of sensor 200 are not shown in FIGS.
3A-3B.
[0044] FIGS. 4A-4C are profile diagrams illustrating embodiments of
a fill level sensor. The diagrams show various external and
internal components of various embodiments of fill level sensor
200. In order to show the internal components of various
embodiments of sensor 200, one or more components of sensor 200 are
not shown in FIGS. 4A-4C.
[0045] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing alternative embodiments of a
waveguide. In some embodiments, FIG. 5 shows alternative shapes of
waveguide 202 shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4A.
[0046] Waveguides 502-512 show vertical cross-sectional diagrams of
different embodiments of waveguide shapes. For example, although
waveguides 502-512 are tubular in shape, the cross-sectional
diagrams are shown to illustrate the hollow interior of the
waveguides. Waveguide 502 includes substantially straight side
walls that extend straight from the signal input end of waveguide
502 that receives signal input from transmitter 204 to the signal
output end of waveguide 502. Waveguide 504 includes linearly sloped
side walls that extend smoothly outward from signal input end of
waveguide 504 that receives signal input from transmitter 204 to
the signal output end of waveguide 504. Waveguide 506 includes
exponentially sloped side walls that extend smoothly outward from
the signal input end of waveguide 506 that receives signal input
from transmitter 204 to the signal output end of waveguide 506.
[0047] In some embodiments, the output end of a waveguide is
configured to accommodate a waveguide extension tube (e.g., tube
with two open ends). For example, for certain types of containers,
it may be beneficial to guide a signal outputted by transmitter 204
further down into the container to measure fill level. By utilizing
a waveguide extension tube, a waveguide is able to extend beyond
the sensor 200. By extending the waveguide further down the
container, undesired reflection in the container may be minimized.
In some embodiments, the output end of the waveguide is enlarged to
accommodate coupling with a waveguide extension tube. For example,
in order to minimize the impedance mismatch between the output end
of a waveguide with the input end of the waveguide extension tube
to be coupled, the transition between the interior output opening
of the sensor waveguide and interior input opening of the extension
tube must be smooth. In some embodiments, the interior opening
widths of waveguide extension tubes 514, 516 and 518 are
substantially similar to interior opening widths of waveguides 508,
510, and 512, respectively.
[0048] Waveguide extension tubes 514, 516 and 518 are shown in
profile view. Although waveguide extension tubes 514, 516 and 518
are shown separated from waveguides 508, 510, and 512,
respectively, to show the different components, waveguide extension
tubes 514,516 and 518 may be inserted into waveguides 508,510, and
512, respectively, to be coupled (e.g., friction coupling,
mechanical coupling, etc.) together. To accommodate for the
thickness of the waveguide extension tube, waveguides 508, 510, and
512 include bell shaped ends that can be coupled with waveguide
extension tubes 514, 516, and 518, respectively to create a
relatively smooth transition between the interior walls of the
sensor waveguides and the waveguide extension tubes. In some
embodiments, a waveguide extension tube is removable from a sensor
waveguide. In some embodiments, a waveguide extension tube is
permanently coupled (e.g., glued) to a sensor waveguide. Examples
of the materials that make up waveguide extension tubes 514, 516,
and 518 include a food grade polymer, plastic, rubber, stainless
steel, and othermetals.
[0049] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a receiver extension tube. In
some embodiments, FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of receiver 214 and
receiver chamber 222 of sensor 200 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Receiver
214 and receiver chamber 222 are shown in cross sectional view and
receiver extension tube 600 is shown in profile view. Although
receiver extension tube 600 is shown separated from receiver
chamber 222 to show the different components, receiver extension
tube 600 may be inserted into receiver chamber 222 to be coupled
together. By utilizing a receiver extension tube, a receiver
chamber is able to extend beyond the sensor 200.
[0050] In some embodiments, the output end of receiver chamber 222
is configured to accommodate receiver extension tube 600 (e.g.,
tube with at least two open ends). For example, for certain types
of containers, it may be beneficial to receive a signal outputted
by transmitter 204 further down into the container within receiver
extension tube 600. By extending further down the container the
receiver chamber that will guide a received signal to receiver 214,
undesired reflection in the container may be rejected from entering
the extended receiver chamber. Receiver chamber 222 is configured
to accommodate coupling (e.g., friction coupling, mechanical
coupling, etc.) with receiver extension tube 600. The size of
receiver chamber 222 is large enough to accommodate for the
thickness of receiver extension tube 600. In some embodiments, a
receiver extension tube is removable from receiver chamber 222. In
some embodiments, receiver extension tube 600 is permanently
coupled (e.g., glued) to receiver chamber 222. In some embodiments,
at least one end of receiver extension tube 600 is sealed with an
acoustically transmissive liquid blocking material (e.g., material
218 of FIG. 2A of FIG. 3B). The lengths, widths, and/or shape of
receiver extension tube 600 may vary across different embodiments.
Examples of the materials that make up receiver extension tube 600
include a food grade polymer, plastic, rubber, stainless steel, and
other metals. In some embodiments, the interior opening width of
receiver extension tube 600 is at least as large as a size of an
opening of receiver 214 that is configured to receive a signal.
[0051] In the example shown, receiver extension tube 600 includes
optional pairs of holes/slots 602, 604, and 606. Each hole of each
pair is on the same horizontal axis position (e.g., vertical
position) substantially opposite one another on receiver extension
tube 600. Although three pairs have been shown, any number of pairs
may exist in other embodiments. In some embodiments, pairs of
holes/slots 602, 604, and 606 allow receiver 214 to act as a
shotgun/parabolic microphone. For example, receiver 214 is able to
directionally better detect signals received at the bottom of
receiver extension tube 600 rather than the sides of extension tube
600. Signals received at the sides of receiver extension tube 600
(e.g., received through holes/slots 602, 604, and 606) may be
largely cancelled out (e.g., signal waves are cancelled as signal
is received through each opposite hole/slot of each hole/slot
pair). In some embodiments, pairs of holes/slots 602, 604, and 606
are sealed with an acoustically transmissive liquid blocking
material (e.g., material 218 of FIG. 2A and FIG. 3B).
[0052] The example container cap shape of fill level sensors (e.g.,
sensor 200) shown in the Figures are merely illustrative. One or
more of the internal components shown in FIGS. 2-6 may be
configured and included similarly in different types of container
covers/caps. FIGS. 7A-7C show various container covers that may be
similarly configured to include one or more of the components shown
in other figures.
[0053] FIG. 8 is a system diagram illustrating components of an
example food management ecosystem. Container cover 802 and receipt
scanner 804 provides data to analysis system 806. For example, data
is provided to analysis system via a wireless connection. Analysis
system 806 includes data receiver 808, food quantity and
consumption data storage 810, UPC and nutrients database 812, user
data database 814, quantity and expiry notification component 816,
food persona and health recommendations component 818, recipes
notification component 820 and service interface 822. Applications
of user devices 824 may access services provided byanalysis system
806 via service interface 822. In some embodiments, container cover
802 includes sensor 100 and/or sensor 200 in FIGS. 1-7.
[0054] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a
container cover. Container cover 902 includes a display and one or
more sensors configured to determine one or more properties of
content included in a container covered by container cover 902. In
some embodiments, container cover 802 of FIG. 1 is container cover
902 of FIG. 9. In some embodiments, container cover 902 is sensor
100 and/or sensor 200 in FIGS. 1-7.
[0055] An example of container cover 902 includes a cap of a
beverage container. In some embodiments, container cover 902 may
measure the quantity of food item contained, take inputs for the
expiration date, measure the chemical nature and nutrient value of
the food contents and transmit these data (e.g., including unique
identifier associated with container cover) wirelessly to an
analysis system (e.g., system 806 of FIG. 8) via a network cloud.
All shapes, sizes and volume are included under the definition of
the container cover. For example, cereal box containers enclosures
and wine bottle stoppers are example container covers. Spouts and
pourers combined with stoppers for beverage bottles are examples of
container covers. Examples of a container include cereal
containers, food storage jars, boxes, tupperware, ceramic jugs, and
any container that can be at least partially covered with the
container cover. In some embodiments, a container cover for a baby
bottle detects the quantity, quality, and temperature, while also
measuring the amount of baby food formula being consumed.
[0056] In some embodiments, the analysis system in turn identifies
the container cover's unique ID and associates the measured
quantities to the consumer who has been associated with the
container cover through the analysis and tracking service. In
various embodiments, the container cover is configured to
provide/include one or more of the following (e.g., a processor is
configured to carry out or coordinate one or more of the
following):
[0057] Detect quantity and communicates to the consumer.
[0058] Ultrasound, piezo-resistive, inductive, capacitive, IR,
line, and video sensors for quantity detection.
[0059] Ultrasound, piezo-resistive, inductive, capacitive, IR,
line, and video sensors that could sense the flow out a cap and
measure volume of flow.
[0060] Detects expiry either through user input or by sensing the
chemical compostion and nutrient value of the food using humidity,
barometric, light, pH, and odor sensors.
[0061] Take inputs regarding the classification of the food type
(e.g., 1% milk, wholemilk, Soy Milk pulp, no pulp orange juice,
etc.).
[0062] Temperature sensor and notifies the consumer if the
temperature is not optimal forstorage (e.g., 20 F to 60 F).
[0063] Click wheel input mechanism built into the cap based on
mechanical and electrical components (e.g., capacitive sensor).
[0064] Display that shows the quantity, expiration date, type of
product, nutrient information, temperature, and last used
information.
[0065] Ability to identify and connect to a local wireless network
or Bluetooth network.
[0066] Ability to detect motion using an accelerometer so it can
turn on/off on a needbasis to optimize power consumption.
[0067] An optimal power management algorithm to store, manage, and
transmit the information back and forth with the analysis system
without draining the power rapidly.
[0068] A mechanical fixture that allows the container cover to
measure the quantitywhile enclosed in a casing that insulates and
protects the electrical system from food and beverages.
[0069] A module that is corrosion resistant and can operate in
temperatures from -40 F to 115 F.
[0070] Ability to store and transmit only when the network
connectivity is available.
[0071] Ability to associate information with unique consumer
identity.
[0072] A touch sensitive screen based on but not limited to
resistor or capacitive sensor mechanism which allows for one touch
reordering (e.g., the screen could be either included in the
container cover or could be separate from the container cover).
[0073] Structure that helps contain solid, liquids, and gases
within a container (e.g., variations of container cover shapes and
structures could include but not limited to circular,square,
rectangular, and any polygon shape).
[0074] Sensor Module.
[0075] Pourer or spouts could be combined into single unit or the
pourer/spout could be independent of the sensors and processor
module.
[0076] Impellers, flow estrictive mechanisms and any additional
conduits that attach to the cap and can be attached with a
sensor.
[0077] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a patch
of a container. In some embodiments, container cover 802 of FIG. 8
is container patch 1002. In some embodiments, container patch 1002
is sensor 100 and/or sensor 200 in FIGS. 1-7. Patch 1002 as shown
may be made with various sensors that can help measure the quantity
of food item contained, take inputs for the expiration date,
measure the chemical nature and nutrient value of the food contents
and transmit these data (e.g., including unique identifier
associated with container cover) wirelessly to an analysis system
(e.g., system 106 of FIG. 1) via a network cloud. Patch 1002 may be
applied to a bag container. Various forms of the patch include
markers, stickers, clips, tie threads, and locks (e.g., zip lock
mechanism with sensors). Variations of the patch/marker shapes and
structures could include but not limited to circular, square,
rectangular, and any polygon shape. All shapes, sizes and volume
are included under the definition of patches/markers.
[0078] In some embodiments, the analysis system in turn identifies
the container patch's unique ID and associates the measured
quantities to the consumer who had been associated with the patch
through the analysis and tracking service. In various embodiments,
the patch is configured to provide/include one or more of the
following (e.g., a processor is configured to carry out or
coordinate one or more of the following):
[0079] Ultrasound, inductive, humidity, and pH sensors utilized to
measure quantity and freshness of food stored.
[0080] A display that shows the quantity, expiration date, type of
product, nutrient information, temperature, and last used
information.
[0081] Ability to identify and connect to a local wireless network
or Bluetooth network.
[0082] Ability to detect motion using an accelerometer so it can
turn on/off on a needbasis to optimize power consumption.
[0083] An optimal power management algorithm to store, manage, and
transmit the information back and forth with the analysis system
without draining the power rapidly.
[0084] A mechanical fixture that allows for the patch to measure
the quantity while enclosed in a casing that insulates and protects
the electrical system from the contents in the bag.
[0085] A module that is corrosion resistant and can operate in
temperatures from -40 F to 115 F.
[0086] Ability to store and transmit only when the network
connectivity is available.
[0087] Ability to associate information with unique consumer
identity.
[0088] A touch sensitive screen based on but not limited to
resistor or capacitive sensor mechanism which allows for one touch
reordering.
[0089] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a receipt
scanner. In some embodiments, scanner 804 of FIG. 8 is scanner
1102. Receipt scanner 1102 scans receipts such as grocery store
receipts.
[0090] For example, a consumer can insert receipts into scanner
1102 and scanner 1102 obtains an image of the receipt to determine
each item listed as purchased on the receipt. Scanner 1102 includes
a stepper motor that is operated synchronously with a line sensor
or camera for taking an optimal amount of pictures. The scanned
data may be transmitted wirelessly to an analysis system via a
network cloud and a unique identifier of the scanner 1102
identifies the data. The analysis system in turn identifies the
scanner's unique ID and associates the purchased items and
quantities to the consumer associated with the scanner.
[0091] In various embodiments, the scanner is configured to
provide/include one or moreof the following (e.g., a processor is
configured to carry out or coordinate one or more of the
following):
[0092] A receipt sized input mechanism that uniformly moves the
receipt for scanning each item data--including name, price,
quantity, and item UPC code.
[0093] A mechanism to scan using a combination of stepper motor and
imaging linesensors.
[0094] The speed of moving the stepper motor to match the camera
speed for an optimalnumber of images.
[0095] Camera position, angle, and distance from the scan area that
offers an optimal picture of each scanned area.
[0096] Ability to identify and connect to a local wireless network
for transmitting receipt information.
[0097] Ability to store and transmit receipt information only when
the network connectivity is available.
[0098] Ability to associate the receipt information with unique
consumer identity.
[0099] Reordering
In some embodiments, an analysis system listens to all devices and
collects data inputs (e.g., shown in FIG. 8). Each container
cover/patch and/or receipt scanner or any other device may be each
uniquely identified by a hardware identification number (ID). This
identifier may be associated with a particular consumer (e.g., the
ID could be transferred and associated with a new consumer). The
data inputs from a container cover/patch may be associated with
device ID and stored under the corresponding consumer profile. The
"data" includes but not limited to--food item name, UPC, quantity,
price, store it was bought from, date and time of purchase,
servings per use, time of servings consumed, location, expiration,
chemical composition, odor, color, temperature, ingredients used,
and various nutrient amount inputs (e.g., carbohydrates, proteins,
fats, sugars). Once sufficient samples are collected over a
reasonable time (e.g., at least a few hundred) the analysis system
may start to "learn" the following patterns and habits including
but not limited to: amount of food needed by the consumer,
consumable state, and the time when the food item needs to be
reordered and replenished.
[0100] Based on the consumption patterns and learning, the analysis
system may notify the consumer about running out of a certain food
item or warn about expiration of food. In response to the
notifications the user may be provided an option to order the food
item.
[0101] In various embodiments, the analysis system is configured to
provide/include oneor more of the following:
[0102] Store food related "data" that offers a view into food
consumption patterns by aconsumer: food item name, UPC, quantity,
price, store it was bought from, date and time of purchase,
servings per use, time of servings consumed, location, expiration,
chemical composition, odor, color, temperature, ingredients used,
and various nutrient amounts (e.g.,carbohydrates, proteins, fats,
sugars).
[0103] A mechanism to uniquely associate various devices that help
collect food datawith each consumer.
[0104] The ability to listen, collect and store millions of devices
at any given point in time.
[0105] Algorithm that mines, learns, and predicts amount of food
needed by the consumer and consumable state of the food item
(expiration dates).
[0106] Ability to notify the user to reorder the necessary food and
beverages or automatically reorder and replenish
[0107] Recommendations to Improve Health
[0108] In some embodiments, an analysis system offers nutritional
facts associated with each food item. This may be provided using a
UPC and nutritional facts database or an existing databases with
similar information. Using such UPC and nutrition database each
consumer's food consumption pattern may be summarized by tracking
various nutritional information over aspecified time period (e.g.,
500 grams of sugar per week, 300 grams of proteins per month, 20
gram of trans fat, etc.). Based on the quantitative profiling of
food consumption, a "food persona" may be determined. This analysis
may be provided to consumers to allow them to make informed choices
around consuming certain food and beverages. The analysis may be
utilized to ascertain healthy nutrient levels and a user may be
notified of over consumption or deficiency of a certain nutrient
for optimal health.
[0109] Consumers may integrate and connect the aggregated data
collected from wearable devices such as FitBit, Jawbone etc. to the
analysis system. Combined with the fitness data from various
wearable devices, the analysis system may also suggest which
nutrients/food and beverages might be a cause for degradation or
improvement of health. The analysis system may offer a mechanism
for consumers to provide allergy and other ailment information. The
analysis system may then check various food and beverages being
ordered and consumed that could result in allergy and medical
issues and warn the user of the possible harm or potential
upside.
[0110] In some embodiments, a user's social graph is obtained from
social networks such as Facebook (upon obtaining permission from
the user) and associated with the food persona built by the
analysis system. Based on food persona which offers insights into
the consumer interests and consumption of various foods, the
analysis system may utilize connected friends of the network to
identify food consumption recommendations. Based on the food
persona, the analysis system may mine for similar personas and
recommend beneficial food and beverages, determine suggested
inventory (e.g., shopping lists), suggest consumption patterns, and
suggest recipes. By connecting users based on food persona, a graph
of users based on food persona called "food graph" may be
determined. Such a network of consumers based on food persona may
form a community to allow discussion of various health benefits.
Famers, food brands, and chefs etc. may then recommend food and
beverages that match certain food persona.
[0111] In various embodiments, the analysis engine is configured to
implement/include one or more of the following:
[0112] Devices that track food consumption patterns and habits to
compute nutritional intake per period (minute/day/week/month).
[0113] Each consumer is associated with various foods and theft
nutritional impact on them--there by developing a unique
profile--"Food Persona."
[0114] Aggregate health data from various fitness devices for a
given consumer, compare it with the food intake data collected from
the devices such as the container cover and the receiptscanner, and
make recommendations on various types of nutrients and food
intake.
[0115] Take inputs from a consumer regarding allergies and special
needs related to food, compare it with the food intake data
collected from the devices such as the container cover and the
receipt scanner and notify/warn users about possible issues with
certain food they havepurchased, ordered, or may order.
[0116] Identify food personas that have similarity and connecting
them to form a consumer graph called "Food Graph".
[0117] Ability to target food and beverages, recipes and
nutritional education from brands, farmers, chefs, and educators
based on food persona.
[0118] Recipe Recommendations
[0119] A recipe for a prepared meal may be based on various
factors: availability of food and beverages, season, age, dietary
requirements, ethnicity, holidays, social recommendations etc. In
some embodiments, a Recipe Recommendation service analyzes
availability of food and beverages in real time, checks the
seasons, suggestions from friends and will recommend the user the
best possible recipes to cook (e.g., shown in FIG. 8). Alongside
the recipe recommendations, notifications for ordering missing food
and beverages may be also sent to the user.
[0120] In various embodiments, the analysis system is configured to
provided/include one or more of the following:
[0121] Real time recipe recommendation based on availability of
food and beverages owned by the consumer, dietary restrictions,
age, season, ethnicity, holidays, social recommendations.
[0122] Notifications for ordering/re-ordering food and beverages
that might be missing to cook a specific recipe so it's delivered
on time for cooking (as specified by the user)
[0123] One Tap Reordering
[0124] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a mobile
application interface. In some embodiments, user device 824 of FIG.
8 includes a mobile device configured to provide interface 1202. In
some embodiments, a mobile application (e.g., application of user
device 824 of FIG. 8) to queries for information related to the
consumer. The application may then display the food availability,
various notifications such as reordering, health improvements,
recipe recommendations and food persona (e.g., nutrient analytics)
of the consumer.
[0125] When a user gets a notification to re-order a certain food
item the user may tap on the notification and the food would be
automatically delivered to their preferred physical address from
their preferred source without any further action or steps from the
consumer. This "One Tap Re-ordering" may be indicated via interface
1202. The "One Tap Re-ordering" may be made possible by aggregating
several fragmented services in a unique manner. When the user
downloads the mobile application or subscribes to the food analysis
and tracking services, user preferences on delivery address,
payments, and preferred time of delivery may be received and
stored. Various delivery service options (e.g., Amazon Fresh,
Google Shopping Express, Instakart, other food marketplace, local
farmers, etc.) may be aggregated. A consumer's preference for the
delivery service may be stored alongside payment, delivery location
and delivery time preferences. In some embodiments, once the
reorder notification is indicated, a one or more of services are
initiated in the background and the food is delivered at the time
and location as specified without any further action from the
consumer
[0126] In various embodiments, the mobile application is utilized
to provide one tap food reordering that helps users get the food
delivered to their preferred location and preferred time without
any further action. In some embodiments, the mobile application
provides access to a delivery services marketplace that offers the
user a choice of choose from a host of delivery services.
[0127] Reminder for Pickup Based on Location
[0128] In some embodiments, the analysis system tracks food content
owned by a user. In some embodiments, a mobile application tracks
the current location of the user using the GPS locations provided
by a mobile device (e.g., Smartphone, Tablet, wearable computer,
etc.). The information of whether a certain food item is running
low or about to expire and the current location of a user device
are utilized to offer recommendation to pick those food and
beverages when the user location is nearby a merchant that carries
the food and beverage. In some embodiments, the mobile application
locates a user's presence in or near a store and detects that the
user is running low on a specific food item and notifies the user
to pick up the food item while at the store.
[0129] The examples shown in the figures do not necessarily show
every component of the embodiments shown. The figures have been
simplified to illustrate the embodiments clearly. Other components
not shown may be included in the embodiments. Any of the components
shown in the figures may be optional. The figures have not been
drawn to absolute and/or relative scale. The components shown may
be of any relative or absolute dimension.
[0130] The methodology described here can be implemented on a
computer system or network. A suitable computer system can include
at least a processor and memory; optionally, a computer-readable
medium that stores computer code for execution by the processor.
Once the code is executed, the computer system carries out the
described methodology.
[0131] In this regard, a "processor" is an electronic circuit that
can execute computer programs. Suitable processors are exemplified
by but are not limited to central processing units,
microprocessors, graphics processing units, physics processing
units, digital signal processors, network processors, front end
processors, coprocessors, data processors and audio processors. The
term "memory" encompasses an electrical device that stores data for
retrieval. In one aspect, therefore, a suitable memory is a
computer unit that preserves data and assists computation. More
generally, suitable methods and devices for providing the requisite
network datatransmission are known.
[0132] Also contemplated is a non-transitory computer readable
medium that includes executable code for carrying out the described
methodology. In certain embodiments, the medium further contains
data or databases for such methodology.
[0133] Embodiments can include program products comprising
non-transitory machine-readable storage media for carrying or
having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored
thereon. Such machine-readable media may be any available media
that may be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose
computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such
machine-readable storage media may comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM,
EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage
or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which may be
used to store desired program code in the form of
machine-executable instructions or data structures and which may be
accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other
machine with a processor. Combinations of the above also come
within the scope of "machine-readable media." Machine-executable
instructions comprise, for example, instructions and data that
cause a general purpose computer, special-purpose computer or
special-purpose processing machine(s) to perform a certain function
or group of functions.
[0134] Embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in
the general context of method steps which may be implemented in one
embodiment by a program product including machine-executable
instructions, such as program code, for example in the form of
program modules executed by machines in networked environments.
Generally, program modules include routines, programs, logics,
objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular
tasks or implement particular abstract data types.
Machine-executable instructions, associated data structures, and
program modules represent examples of program code for executing
steps of the methods disclosed herein. The particular sequence of
such executable instructions or associated data structures
represent examples of corresponding acts for implementing the
functions described in such steps.
[0135] As previously indicated, embodiments of the present
disclosure may be practiced in a networked environment using
logical connections to one or more remote computers having
processors. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such
network computing environments may encompass many types of
computers, including personal computers, hand-held devices,
multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable
consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe
computers, and so on. Embodiments of the disclosure also may be
practiced in distributed and cloud computing environments where
tasks are performed by local and remote processing devices that are
linked, by hardwired links, by wireless links or by a combination
of hardwired or wireless links, through a communications network.
In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be
located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
[0136] Although the discussions above may refer to a specific order
and composition of method steps, it is understood that the order of
these steps may differ from what is described. For example, two or
more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial
concurrence. Also, some method steps that are performed as discrete
steps may be combined, steps being performed as a combined step may
be separated into discrete steps, the sequence of certain processes
may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of
discrete processes may be altered or varied. The order or sequence
of any element or apparatus may be varied or substituted according
to alternative embodiments. Accordingly, all such modifications are
intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.
Such variations will depend on the software and hardware systems
chosen and on designer choice. It is understood that all such
variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise,
software and web implementations of the present disclosure could be
accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule based
logic and other logic to accomplish the various database searching
steps, correlation steps, comparison steps and decision steps.
[0137] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.
[0138] The disclosures illustratively described herein may suitably
be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation
or limitations, not specifically disclosed here. For example, the
terms "comprising", "including," "containing," etc. shall be read
expansively and without limitation. Additionally, the terms and
expressions employed here have been used as terms of description
and not of limitation; hence, the use of such terms and expressions
does not evidence and intention to exclude any equivalents of the
features shown and described or of portions thereof. Rather, it is
recognized that various modifications are possible within the
scopeof the disclosure claimed.
[0139] By the same token, while the present disclosure has been
specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments and optional
features, the knowledgeable reader will apprehend modification,
improvement and variation of the subject matter embodied here.
These modifications, improvements and variations are considered
within the scope of the disclosure.
[0140] Although the disclosure has been described in conjunction
with the abovementioned embodiments, the foregoing description and
examples are intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the
disclosure. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications within the
scope of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the
art to which the disclosure pertains.
[0141] Although the foregoing embodiments have been described in
some detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, the invention
is not limited to the details provided. There are many alternative
ways of implementing the invention. The disclosed embodiments are
illustrative and not restrictive.
* * * * *