Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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ON-LINE SYSTEM FOR MEMORIAL, LEGACY, FUNERAL AND
REMEMBRANCE ARRANGEMENTS, SERVICES AND TRANSACTIONS
RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/160,392,
entitled "LIFE FILES ON-LINE NETWORK SYSTEM", by Michael G. Platner, filed
October 19, 1999, which is incorporated in its entirety herein including any
drawings or
figures.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to transactions over a system of networked
computers,
such as the Internet. More specifically, the present invention relates to the
transmission and
receipt of electronic documents regarding a deceased over a system of
networked computers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Computer systems in general are known. A typical system comprises a computer,
keyboard, mouse, and a monitor. Additionally, the computer comprises a central
processing
unit ("CPU") and random access memory ("RAM") and allows various software
programs to
be used. Further, the computer might comprise a modem, an Ethernet card or
other similar
device for connecting to a system of networked computers, such as the
Internet.
The Internet provides a useful technique for making information available to a
variety
of individuals each of whom may be located at a variety of different
locations. Indeed, within
the vast Internet environment, individuals can access information tools from
remote locations.
The Internet, which originally came about in the late 1960s, is a computer
network
made up of many smaller networks spanning the entire globe. The host computers
or
networks of computers on the Internet allow public or private access to
databases containing
information in numerous areas of expertise. Hosts can be sponsored by a wide
range of
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entities including, for example, universities, government organizations,
commercial
enterprises and individuals.
Internet information is made available to the public through servers running
on an
Internet host. The servers make documents or other files available to those
accessing the host
site. Such files can be stored in databases and on storage media such as
optical or magnetic
storage devices, preferably local to the host.
Networking protocols can be used to facilitate communications between the host
and a
requesting client. TCP/IP ("Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol")
is one such
networking protocol. Computers on a TCP/IP network utilize unique
identification ("ID")
codes, allowing each computer or host on the Internet to be uniquely
identified. Such codes
can include an IP ("Internet Protocol") number or address, and corresponding
network and
computer names.
Created in 1991, the World-Wide Web ("Web" or "WWW") provides access to
information on the Internet, allowing a user to navigate Internet resources
intuitively, without
IP addresses or other specialized knowledge. The Web comprises hundreds of
thousands of
interconnected "pages", or documents, which can be displayed on a user's
computer monitor.
The web pages are provided by hosts running special servers. Software that
runs these web
servers is relatively simple and is available on a wide range of computer
platforms including
PC's. Equally available is web browser software, used to display web pages as
well as
traditional non-web files on the user's system.
Recent years have been marked by a societal and technological revolution
driven by
the convergence of the data processing and data storage industry with
consumers via the
Internet. One of these technologies is the Internet-related distribution of
documents, media
and programs. With the expansion that has occurred, businesses and consumers
have direct
access to a wide range of documents, media and even computer programs.
Hypertext Markup Language ("HTML"), which has been a documentation language of
the Internet and World Wide Web for years offers direct links between pages
and other
documentation on the Internet and a variety of related data sources which were
at first text and
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then evolved into not only text but various media formats and progressed
towards interactive
documents for submission and retrieval of information. This even further
exploded the use of
the Internet and World Wide Web. It was now possible for a web user to spend
hours going
through document after document and interact with online businesses and
databases.
The Web is based on the concept of hypertext and a transfer method known as
"HTTP" ("Hypertext Transfer Protocol"). HTTP is designed to run primarily over
TCP/IP
and uses the standard Internet setup, where a server issues the data and a
client displays or
processes it. One format for information transfer is to create documents using
HTML. HTML
pages are made up of standard text as well as formatting codes indicating how
to display the
page. The browser reads these codes to display the page.
Each web page may contain pictures and sounds in addition to text. Associated
with
certain text, pictures or sounds are connections, known as hypertext links, to
other pages
within the same server or even on other computers within the Internet. For
example, links
may appear as underlined or highlighted words or phrases. Each link is
directed to a web page
by using a special name called a URL ("Uniform Resource Locator"). URLs enable
the
browser to go directly to the associated resource, even if it is on another
web server.
The proliferation of the Internet, in particular the World Wide Web, makes a
large
amount of information, products and services, accessible to anyone connected
to the Internet.
In order to access the Internet, a user typically subscribes to an on-line
service provider.
Using, for example, a modem coupled to a computer, the user contacts the
service provider to
which they have become a member and allows password verified access, and the
service
provider, in turn, connects the user to the Internet. The web consists,
generally, of
voluminous "sites". Various web sites contain information and provide services
of various
types such as purchasing an automobile or clothing, to providing access to
information such as
online encyclopedias and newspapers. Web documents are stored in HTML format
in
association with a "server" and a "database" on remote network servers and
network database
computers.
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There is a long felt need in the funeral-related industry to provide an
Internet location
for providing items and services for funeral and memorialization arrangements,
for providing
services to families and friends of the deceased and for providing a place for
communication
amongst families and friends, funeral industry agents and dealers, and for
tools which are
helpful for the funeral, legacy, burial, and memorial processes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to methods and computer networking apparatus
configurations for preparing electronic documents and/or information regarding
a deceased or
a living individual. Particularly disclosed are methods for providing a
central storage and
access location on a network, such as a network server and/or database,
wherein electronic
information about a deceased or living individual may be submitted and/or
accessed by
principle survivors. It is an aspect of this invention to also provide online
remembrance
journals, online tributes, and/or interactive living memorials for both the
living and the
deceased, and also provide at least one obituary for the deceased.
"Electronic documents" or "electronic information" refers to Internet, online
network
documents, or any document or information that is capable of being transmitted
over a system
of networked computers that can be read on a computer terminal. Preferably
electronic
documents are read and/or viewed from a remotely located computer terminal
which accesses
the information via a network and/or the Internet. The electronic documents
include, text
messages, text letters, comments, documents such as web pages, HTML pages
including
pictures, text and hypertext, audio files, video files, other online media
content such as
Macromedia's SHOCKWAVETM Flash documents, photographs and other digital and/or
digitized images, and the like. Moreover, electronic documents or information
also includes
Markup Language ("ML") pages, where the mark up language may be read using
Internet
browsers and comprise information generally viewed on a standard HTML page as
discussed
above, and can also have embedded software programs which run via remote
access to the ML
document. ML documents include EXtensible Markup Language ("XML"), PHP
Hypertext
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Preprocessor language, Active Server Page ("ASP") (Microsoft Corporation),
Server-parsed
HTML ("SHTML"), JAVA~ (Sun Microsystems, Inc.) programs, applets and the like.
Electronic information or electronic documents may be prepared, altered and
sent by a
user. Additionally, electronics documents or electronic information may be
specific to a
particular deceased individual, for example, an HTML or ML document that
includes digital
images, textual comments, messages or video regarding a specific deceased
individual.
Computer commands for preparation of such documents are known and can be in
the form of
common gateway interface ("cgi") scripts as well as JAVA based programs and
applets.
Furthermore, electronic documents can be manipulated by the user or member of
the network.
In this context, the term "manipulated" refers to the user or members ability
to select certain
aspects of the document to alter for example, the color of the document, the
location of digital
images, videos or sound files, the types of links available on the page,
posted text information,
and the like.
"Valuable documents" refers to electronic documents such as pictures of
immediate
1 S family and friends, wills, contracts, policies such as for insurance, and
other important
documents.
"System of networked computers" means any system of interconnected computers
such
as the Internet, an intranet, a virtual private network ("VPN"), a local area
network ("LAN"),
a wide area network ("WAN"), and the like. The system of networked computers
may be any
system of multiple computers that are directly or indirectly interconnected by
any type of
electronic connection, including connections via hardwire, Ethernet, token
ring, modem,
digital subscriber line, cable modem, wireless, radio, satellite, and
combinations thereof.
Such connections may be implemented using copper wire, fiber optics, radio
waves, coherent
light, or other media. Further, as used herein, the term "network" refers to
any such system of
networked computers.
A "user" is an individual who accesses the network via a computer terminal. In
one
embodiment a user accesses the network to obtain electronic documents
regarding a deceased
individual, burial, or funeral or to undertake transactions relating to the
same with a business
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within the funeral industry. In another embodiment, a user will be at least
one individual.
With regard to the present invention the number of users is not considered a
limiting aspect.
There can be as many users as the network design is capable of allowing access
to the
electronic documents regarding a deceased. Because individual access to the
Internet
increases on a minute by minute basis, all individuals who can gain access to
the system of
networked computers are potential users. As an example, a deceased with a
global presence
such as a president, royalty or popular entertainment figure, would have a
large number of
users, and particularly users in the affected circle.
A "funeral industry user" is a user such as a director, owner, employee,
manager, or
other individual within the funeral industry. Funeral industry users includes
cemetery owners,
florists, funeral home operators, sympathy card merchants, and the like.
A "dealer" is a business or member of any industry, including funeral related
industries
and other businesses and industries.
"Electronic documents regarding a deceased" or "electronic information
regarding a
1 S deceased" refers to documents such as obituaries, tributes, anecdotal
remembrances,
testimonials, messages, funeral parlor information such as preparation of the
deceased
individual for burial, casket and/or cremation costs and the like, a guest
book registry
database, interactive memorial information, lists of mourners planning to
attend the funeral,
letters and messages from friends, family and acquaintances of the deceased,
insurance
information, cemetery information, burial plot cost and location, computer
database
searchable as well as listed resources and information regarding books and
articles relating to
the funeral ceremony, the burial process or the grieving process, and the
like. An example of
an electronic document regarding a deceased is a REMEMBRANCE LIFE LEGACYTM
(Lifefiles.com, Inc.) or a LIFE LEGACYTM (Lifefiles.com, Inc.).
"Electronic documents regarding a living individual" or "electronic
information
regarding a living individual" refers to documents memorializing an
individual's life and
achievements. For example, this documents may comprise an online tribute to
this living
individual. Moreover, it may be created as a scrapbook in digital format, such
that it may be
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continuously updated. An example of an electronic document regarding a living
individual is
a LIFE LEGACYTM (Lifefiles.com, Inc.).
"Deceased" or "deceased individual" or "deceased party" refers to a party that
is no
longer alive and has a principle survivor and an affected circle. A deceased
individual can be
a human or an animal, such as a pet. Preferably the deceased is a human.
Generally the
deceased individual is a single entity, person or pet, however it is possible
for a principle
survivor to be associated with more than one deceased individuals, for
example, an instance
where more than one individual is to be buried.
"Principle survivor" refers to an authorized user or member such as a friend
or family
member, for example a spouse, parent, sibling, grand-parent and the like, who
accesses the
system of networked computers using a user name in preferably a secure manner.
The
principle survivor is responsible for overseeing electronic documents that are
provided on the
system of networked computers regarding the deceased. Additionally, the
principle survivor
may be responsible for arranging the burial and funeral for the deceased. In
this regard, the
principle survivor may also be a representative of the deceased, who is not a
relative, but is in
charge of the funeral and burial arrangements for the deceased.
The "affected circle" includes users that have some connection or relationship
with the
deceased and are provided access to the network in a secured manner. Users
that comprise the
affected circle may be selected by the principle survivor. For example, the
affected circle may
comprise bereaved and mourning friends and/or family of the deceased. The
affected circle
does not necessarily include users who are responsible for funeral and burial
arrangements.
The affected circle and principle survivors are considered authorized users as
they have access
to certain electronic documents and electronic information on the network
which are not
available to other users. Within the affected circle may be users considered
an "inner circle"
who comprise relatives of the deceased.
"Secure manner" or "secured access" refers to providing access to the network
in an
exclusive, private manner. Such access can be granted to a user by providing a
secret
password or other method of identification which is entered in order to gain
access to the
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network, such as, biometric information (for example, a fingerprint, voice
recognition, or
retinal), knowledge based identifying information (for example, a mother's
maiden name), or
the like. Encryption methods can also be used to provide such access to the
network.
Electronic information regarding the deceased may also be kept on a network
computer hard
drive and database in a secure manner.
These definitions are intended to be exemplary only. They are not intended to
limit the
defined terms as they are described or referred to throughout the
specification. Rather these
definitions are meant to include any additional aspects andlor examples as
described and
claimed herein.
Other aspects, embodiments, and technical advantages of the present invention
are set
forth in or will be apparent from drawings, claims, and the disclosure of the
invention, or may
be learned from the practice of the invention. Such other aspects,
embodiments, and technical
advantages shall be deemed to be a part of the invention as if they were
disclosed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference is now made to the following description and the accompanying
drawings,
wherein like reference numerals represent like parts, in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates an overview of one embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a flowchart of one embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate a flowchart of one embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a flowchart of one embodiment of the present invention;
and
FIGS. SA-SF illustrate a flowchart of one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present invention provides electronic documents relating to aspects of
memorial
and/or funeral arrangements, legacy and/or remembrance documents, as well as
related
transactions over a system of networked computers. A secure network and
database is
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provided for users and members to place and view electronic documents
regarding a deceased
or living individual.
FIG. 1 illustrates a portion of a computer 100 according to an embodiment of
the
present invention. A general purpose workstation computer 100 comprises a
processor 101
having an input/output ("I/O") section 102, a central processing unit ("CPU")
103 and a
memory section 104. The I/O section 102 is connected to a keyboard 105, a
display unit 106,
a disk storage unit 109 and a CD-ROM drive unit 107. The CD-ROM unit 107 can
read a
CD-ROM medium 108, which typically contains programs and data 110. The disk
storage
unit can be, or is connected to, a database or network server 111. The
connection can be via a
modem or other digital communication device. The database server and network
server 111
can be the same device or two separate but coupled devices.
The computer 100 may be a personal computer, desktop computer, laptop
computer,
set top box, web access device (such as WEBTV~ (Microsoft Corporation)), or
the like. Use
of computers also contemplates other devices similar to or incorporating
computers, such as
personal computers, television interfaces, kiosks, and the like.
The environment in which the present invention is used comprises a system of
networked computers, wherein general purpose computers, workstations, or
personal
computers are interconnected via communication links of various types. Thus,
the user's
computer 100 can be connected to other computers over a modem, Ethernet
connection, or
other communications link. Electronic information transmitted from the user or
other entities
is sent from one such computer system 100 to other similar computer systems.
FIGS. 2A-2C; 3A-3D; 4A-4C; and SA-SF are exemplary of embodiments of processes
for performing various actions according to the present invention. The steps,
as shown in
these figures, may be modified such that they do not depart or detract from
the spirit of the
present invention.
FIGS. 2A -2C illustrate a flowchart according to one embodiment of the present
invention. The flow chart shows how a user can access and/or create electronic
documents
regarding a deceased or a living individual, access information about a living
or deceased
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individual in a secure manner, access the electronic documents which serve as
an on-line
guest book or guest registry, and add information to the guestbook or family
forum. As used
herein, "E.D." is an abbreviation for "electronic document."
As illustrated in FIGS 2A-2C, starting point 200 represents the electronic
document or
S webpage which is accessed by a user. 206 is a selection which can be made
from starting
point 200 and allows the user to either begin the creation 204 of an
electronic document
regarding a deceased or living individual. Alternatively, a user may view a
sample of an
online living memorial or electronic documents regarding a deceased 208, 210
or access and
view such electronic documents 208. The electronic document may be a sample
page to
demonstrate to a user what type of information may be used. The electronic
documents are
then displayed 212. Access to such electronic documents may start with a user
performing an
online search for the living individual and/or deceased's name 212. The name
is entered 214
and databases containing the names are searched 216. The user may then view
the results of
the search 218.
The user selects the living or deceased individual at 220. If the electronic
documents
associated with the living or deceased individual are not protected in a
secure manner, such as
with a password protection 222, then electronic documents regarding the
deceased or living
individual are shown 234.
If there is password protection 222, the user is prompted for the password at
234. If
the user does not have the password, an electronic document summarizing the
living or
deceased individual is shown 226 and the user may again select a page at 228.
If the user has
the password and enters the password, the password is verified 230. If the
password is valid,
electronic documents regarding the deceased or living individual are shown
234. If the
entered password is invalid, the user is prompted to again enter the password
234.
236 on FIG. 2A links 236 on FIG. 2B. At 238, electronic documents regarding
the
living or deceased individual are displayed. The user may then select
additional pages 240.
For example, the user may elect to enter an online guestbook 242 or family
forum 244. The
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family forum may comprise an online area for affected users, preferably an
inner circle of
affected users, to discuss the deceased and/or arrangements regarding the
deceased.
The online guestbook or family forum may be accessed in a secure manner 246
with
proper verification of identification through, for example, the submission of
a verified
password 248. If the online guestbook or family forum is not protected in a
secure manner,
then data regarding the online guestbook or family forum is retrieved 258 and
shown 260.
If there is password protection 246, the user is prompted for the password at
238. If
the user does not have the password, an electronic document summarizing the
online
guestbook or family forum is shown 250 and the user may again select a page at
252. If the
user has the password and enters the password, the password is verified 254.
If the password
is valid 256, electronic documents regarding the online guestbook or family
forum are
retrieved 258 and shown 260. If the entered password is invalid, the user is
prompted to again
enter the password 248.
262 on FIG. 2B links 262 on FIG. 2C. At 264, the user may access the family
forum
page. If the user enters the family forum page, the user may choose 266 to add
a family forum
message 268. If the user does not wish to add a family forum message, the user
is sent to step
202. If adding a family forum message, the user may also attach photos 270,
such as photos
of the deceased or living individual. The photos are then updated at 272. The
user is then
sent to step 202.
If the user declines to enter the family forum page 264, the user may enter
the
guestbook page 274. The user may select to enter a guestbook message 276, and
if the user so
elects, the user's message is added to the guestbook 278. The user is then
sent to 202.
If the user declines to enter the guestbook page 274, the user may elect to
enter the
sharing memories page 280. The sharing memories page allows a user to add a
document
such as an electronic image, photograph, or text comments about a living or
deceased
individual. The user may choose 282 to add a sharing memory 284, which may
involve
attaching a photograph 286 and having the photograph updated on the page 288.
The user is
then sent to 202.
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Once a user has accessed secure areas of the network, or created a new user
profile, it
is possible to return 202 to the starting point 200 (on FIG. 2A) or to 240 (on
FIG. 2B).
FIGS. 3A - 3D illustrate a flowchart according to one embodiment of the
present
invention. A user, such as a principle survivor, can administrate an assigned
portion of the
S network by entering biographical information, general information, uploading
digital images
or photographs, maintaining a gallery of uploaded images and photographs,
providing
messages, and maintaining the guestbook and access to the network. A principle
survivor
may become a member of the network by accessing the computer scripted or
programmed
forms for transactional activities such as purchasing an online memorial,
which is a unique
interactive electronic document considered a memorial for a living or deceased
individual.
The online memorial includes an online tribute to a individual by providing
electronic
documents and being an online repository which can accumulate uploaded and
submitted
information about the individual.
At starting point 300, a user, for example the principle survivor, is prompted
by the
network server or database server to provide identification in a secure manner
by entering a
login 304. In the case where a user does not remember the correct
identification 306, the
network server or database server prompts the user to submit an email address
or contact
information 320 which is used to provide the user with the proper identifying
password or
materials 322.
If the password, family name, and user ID are known by the user, such
information is
entered at 308. The information is then verified at 310 by determining if the
information is
correct 312. If it is not, the user is returned to start 300 via 302. If the
information is correct,
314 the user selects a subject to maintain at 314. The subject may be, for
example, the living
or deceased individual. At 316, the user determines what type of package to
purchase, for
example a deluxe or regular package. The various packages involve different
features or areas
to view and/or upload electronic documents regarding the living or deceased
individual.
318 on FIG. 3A links 318 on FIG. 3B. At 320, the user is provided with
administrative electronic documents for the particular portion of the database
to which the
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user is assigned by the network administrator and/or network server/database
server. At 302,
the user is prompted to enter biographical information. If the user does not
desire to enter
such information, there is a determination if the user has a deluxe package at
334. If the user
desires to enter such information, biographical information on the living or
deceased
individual is entered at 324 and sent to 334. If the user does not have a
deluxe package, the
user is prompted via 318 to enter more biographical data at 322. If the user
has a deluxe
package, the user is prompted to add more information on FIG. 3C.
Additionally, the user may enter information for a family page such as textual
information or decisions for the layout of the document 324, enter a digital
image or portrait
326, provide a selection of digital images or portraits in a gallery 328,
provide text
information 330, review and select text messages which are accessed by other
members of the
affected circle and/or family 332 or review and maintain text items submitted
to the online
guestbook 336. These options allow the user to maintain and update information
regarding
the deceased or living individual.
1 S If the user does not elect to enter biographical information, then at 340
the system
prompts the user to add a new online memorial for a deceased or living
individual to the
account. If the user does not, then the user returns to 320 via 318. If the
user does, the user
enters this new information on FIG. 3D, via 342.
At 334, the system determines if the user has a deluxe package. If the user
does, they
are provided more options on FIG. 3C via 338. If the user does not, then the
user returns to
320 via 318.
Within the family administration area of the network 320, a user having a
deluxe
package has various additional options other than those discussed above. For
example, a user
can add or modify a biography 344 once it has been entered at 322. A user can
submit digital
images or portraits to a main document or a sub-document which is linked to
the main
document 346 and display or upload such photos 348. A user can edit or delete
comments
within the memory message document area 366. A user can submit 366, delete 368
and
arrange digital images or portraits in the gallery area. A user can add to the
members of the
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affected circle by adding additional family members, deleting family members,
and adding
family member information 350, 352, 354, and 356. A user can edit, select
and/or delete
messages in the family forum area 374, 376. Further, a user can select or
delete entries in the
guestbook 370, 372. After completing this information, the user returns to 320
(on FIG. 3B)
via 318.
If the user has selected to enter a new online memorial for a deceased or
living
individual, then at 378, the user enters electronic information regarding the
individual. At
380, the user verifies that the information is correct at 380. The information
is recorded at
382 and the user is prompted to pay for the online memorial at 384. The price
is verified by
the user 386 and then the user enters payment information 388. The transaction
is then
processed at 390. The system determines whether the memorial and/or the
payment is
accepted or declined at 392. The user is then returned to start 300 via 302.
FIGS. 4A - 4C illustrate a flowchart according to one embodiment of the
present
invention. FIGS. 4A - 4C shows how a funeral industry user, for example an
individual who
directs, manages or is employed by a funeral home, accesses, manages and
creates electronic
documents on the network and database servers. The documents allow the funeral
industry
users to access and create accounts for users, such as a principle survivor.
Portions of the
database and storage areas are modified by the funeral industry user in order
to identify which
areas of the network/database are secure and/or managed by principle survivors
or available to
general users. The funeral industry user can track transactional activities,
such as monetary
payments. Further, the creation, manipulation, and modification of available
electronic
documents is shown in FIGS, 4A-4C.
Starting point 400 allows a user, preferably an individual who is affiliated
with the
funeral industry, to access the system in a secure manner through a network
server or database
server. At 404, the user is prompted for a login, user name and user
identification, such as a
password. This information is entered at 406 and verified at 408. If the
correct information is
provided by the user at 410, the network server or database server provides
the user with an
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electronic document representing a menu of selectable options 406. If
incorrect information is
provided, the user returns to start 400 via 402.
Additionally, the user may select to review a statement of the accessed
account
information 408. If the user desires to review this statement, the system
determines if the user
has proper access to view such a statement at 410, and if so, displays the
statement at 412.
Otherwise the user returns to 406 via 404.
Alternatively, the user may send an email to the network administrator 414,
416, or
return to the user's industry specific website (or network member's website)
at 418. The
website may be located at a separate URL. The user then is sent to that
website at 420.
Moreover, the user may select to return to the home page 424 of the system.
For example, the
system home page may start the user along the system shown in FIG. 2A, item
200. If the user
selects this option, at 426 they go to the home page.
Further, the user may select to create a new customer user account 430, or
select to
edit and/or modify an existing customer account 434. In a preferred
embodiment, a customer
account will be the account managed by a principle survivor. Selecting to
create a new
customer account 430 allows the user, via 432, access to electronic documents
which allow
the user to submit or enter information regarding the new customer, for
example family
information 440.
At 444, the information entered is confirmed and recorded at 446. The user
then
chooses the product, such as a deluxe or standard product at 448. Then the
user confirms the
product ordered and the price at 450. The transaction is then recorded 452. An
administrative
page 466 is displayed (via 454).
Selecting to modify an existing customer account 434 allows the user, via 436,
access
to electronic documents which allow the user to modify information regarding
the customer,
for example family information. The user enters the family last name to edit
at 456 and the
system displays matching last names at 458. The user then selects a family
account at 460. A
page of information regarding the individual is shown at 462. The user then
selects whether
to use a new registry or edit the subject matter at 464. If the user wishes to
use a new registry
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listing, then the user enters new subject information about the family at 442
(via 470). If the
user wishes to edit the subject matter, an administrative page is shown at
466.
Upon selecting to edit subject matter within the customer's account 464, the
user is
provided with an administration page 466 from which the user may select
various options
from 468. For example, the user may select to add products 472, edit
remembrance text 482,
edit and/or delete services 490, submit and update or delete digital images
498, and edit the
amount of a donation 804. If adding a product 472, a display of products not
already
purchased is shown at 474, a products) to purchase are selected at 476, the
products) are
confirmed, along with the price at 478, and the transaction is recorded at
480. If editing
remembrance text at 482, the current information is displayed at 484, edited
or added at 486
and the changes are recorded at 488. If editing and/or deleting services at
490, the current
service information is displayed at 492, edited at 494, and the changes are
recorded at 496. If
updating portrait photos at 498, the updated main page portrait and/or sub
page portrait at
updated at 800 and shown at 802. If editing donation information 804, the
current donation
information is shown at 806, edited at 808, and the changes are recorded at
454. When
finished, the user either returns to editing the subject at 466 via 454, or
returns to the main
menu from 812 to 406 via 404.
FIGS. 5A - SF illustrate a flowchart according to one embodiment of the
present
invention. A network administrator, such as an individual who is employed by
or a director of
the network, accesses the network server/database server to manage both the
network
programs) and electronic documents. A network administrator gains access
through a secure
connection, selects a network member's account, changes and updates
information relating to
the funeral industry, and allots portions of the database server or storage
area as well as certain
electronic documents to users and members of the network.
Starting point 400 provides a network administrator with secure access to the
network
by providing a login point 502 which is verified by the network
server/database server 504,
506. Upon verification of the login information the administrator is provided
with a
administration menu 510 which allows for the selection of an article library
document 512, an
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advisor post office 514, books administration 538, death care post office area
of the network
560, flowers administration 586, network member host html setup 616, and
network member
registry HTML setup 626.
Selection of the article library 512 provides the administrator with a display
of a three
tier message center that can be accessed to setup the message center
categories and messages
522, 524. Selection of categories 526 allows the administrator to view a
document which
displays categories which can be deleted, edited or added, or an image may be
attached and/or
updated 530. Changes or new entries to categories are then recorded 532 by the
network
server/database server. Selection of messages 528 allows the administrator to
view a
document which displays messages which can be deleted, edited or added 534.
Changes or
new entries to messages are then recorded 536 by the network server/database
server.
Selection of the advisor post office 514 allows the administrator to view a
document
which displays the advisor post office administration center 518 wherein the
administrator
may setup filters, browse submissions, send mass mail, setup the
administrators post office
and/or view user demographics. Information which is changed within the advisor
post office
administration center is then recorded 520 by the network server/database
server.
Selection of books administration 538 allows the administrator to view a
document
which displays books administration wherein the administrator may setup
categories, setup
books and/or setup field names 540. Selection of setup categories 542 in this
instance allows
the administrator to view a document which allows the administrator to add,
delete or edit 544
categories and the changes are recorded 546 by the network server/database
server. Selection
of setup field names 548 allows the administrator to edit field names 550
where the changes
are then recorded 552 by the network server/database server. Selection of
setup books 554
allows the administrator to view a document which allows the administrator to
add, delete,
edit or upload a book image 556, preferably the books relate to the funeral
industry, changes
are then recorded 558 by the network server/database server.
Selection of cards administration 562 allows the administrator to view the
cards
administration 564 document wherein the administrator may setup categories,
setup cards
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and/or setup field names. Selection of setup categories 566 in this instance
provides the
administrator access to add, delete or edit categories 566. Changes made are
then recorded
570 by the network server/database server. Selection of setup field names 572
allows the
administrator to edit field names 574, where the changes or new entries are
recorded 576 by
the network server/database server. Selection of setup cards allows the
administrator to add,
delete, edit or upload card images 580 and the changes or new entries are
recorded 582 by the
network server/database server. Selection of death care post office 610
provides the
administrator with the death care post office document 612 which allows the
administrator to
setup filters, browse submissions, send mass mail, setup the administrator
post office, and/or
view user demographics. Changes or new entries made within this area are
recorded 614.
Selection of flowers administration 586 provides the administrator with the
flowers
administration document 590 wherein the administrator may chose to setup
categories, setup
flowers and/or setup field names. Selection of setup categories 592 in this
instance allows the
administrator to add, delete or edit categories 594, where the changes or new
entries are
recorded 596 by the network server/database server. Selection of setup field
names 598
allows the administrator to edit field names 600 where the changes are
recorded 602 by the
network server/database server. Selection of setup cards 604 allows the
administrator to add,
delete, edit or one or more flower images 606 where the changes or new entries
are recorded
608 by the network server/database server.
Selection of network member host html setup 616 displays the network members
618
document wherein the administrator may view members of the networks names,
such as a
principle survivor, view member signup dates and select the member whose
information is to
be edited, such as the member's name. Selection of edit member 620 allows the
display of a
network member html setup document 622 which allows the administrator to set
colors, add
images and insert image maps in an html document. Changes or new entries are
recorded 624
by the network server/database server.
Selection of network member registry html setup 626 displays the network
members
document 630 which allows the administrator to view member names, such as a
principle
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survivor, the member signup date, and allows the administrator to select
members information
to be edited. Selection of edit member 632 displays the network member
registry html setup
document 634, wherein the administrator may set colors, add images, insert
image maps in the
electronic document. The changes or new entries are recorded 636 by the
network
server/database server.
Selection of network member setup 638 provides the administrator with a
display of
the network member setup document 640 which shows member names, such as for
example a
principle survivor, the member signup date and allows the administrator to
select a member
whose information is to be edited. Once a member is selected to be added or
edited 642 the
administrator either edits the member information 646, 652, and has the
changes recorded
654, or adds a new member 644 by adding new network member information 648 and
having
the information recorded 650 by the network server/database server.
Selection of network member user setup 656 displays the network members
document
660 wherein the administrator may select a member whose information is to be
added or
edited, preferably the member is a principle survivor, a deceased or a person
initiating an
online tribute. Selection to add or edit a users information 662 provides
access to a display of
network member users 664 wherein the administrator may select a user whose
information is
to be edited or add a new user's information. Adding a new user 666 is through
the network
member user setup 668, where a username, password and permissions are added by
the
administrator and the new entries are recorded 670 by the network
server/database server.
Editing a users information 672 is through the network member user setup 674
where a
username, password and permissions may be edited and the changes are recorded
676 by the
network server/database server.
Selection of user and group security 678 displays the security module
administration
document which allows the administrator to access group setup 682, user setup
700,
permission setup 720 and turn off permission setup 738. Selection of group
setup 682
displays groups 684 which allows the administrator to select to add a group or
click a group
name to make edits. Selecting to add or edit 686 group information allows the
administrator
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to add 688 a group name, set inherits and permissions 690 and have the new
entry information
recorded 692, or the administrator may edit a group name, inherits and
permission 696 and
have the changes recorded 698 by the network server/database server. Selecting
user setup
700 displays users 704 where the administrator may add a user or edit user
information.
Selecting to add or edit 706 user information allows the administrator to add
708 a user name
and select groups 710 and have the information recorded 712 or the
administrator may select
to edit 714 a user name and edit groups 716 and have the changes recorded 718
by the
network server/database server.
Selecting permission setup 720 displays permissions 722 where the
administrator may
add a permission or select an existing permission to edit. Selecting to add or
edit 724 a
permission allows the administrator to add 726 a user name or select a group
and have the
new entries recorded 730 or the administrator may select to edit 732 a user
name and/or
groups and have the changes recorded 736 by the network server/database
server. Selecting
turn off permission setup 738 allows the administrator to turn off permission
setup 740. The
administrator may return to display web site administration menu 510 at FIG.
SF, 508. The
flowchart of FIG. 5A is linked to the flowchart of FIG. 5B by 516, the
flowchart of FIG. 5B is
linked to the flowchart FIG. SC by 588, the flowchart of FIG. SC is linked to
the flowchart of
FIG. SD by 628, the flowchart of FIG. SD is linked to the flowchart of FIG. SE
by 658, the
flowchart of FIG. SE is linked to the flowchart of FIG. SF by 702.
One embodiment of the present invention comprises a method for providing
electronic
documents submitted by users regarding a deceased individual on a system of
networked
computers by providing, publishing and/or submitting electronic documents
and/or electronic
information regarding a deceased over a system of networked computers.
Preferably, the
electronic information is provided by at least one user. Alternatively, the
electronic
information may regard a living individual. The user may be an Internet or
computer user.
Alternatively, the user is a principle survivor. In one embodiment, the
principle
survivor accesses the electronic information in a secure manner and determines
which of the
provided or submitted electronic documents are acceptable, e.g., not to be
removed from the
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network. Furthermore, the principle survivor determines which other users are
in the affected
circle and which users in the affected circle are allowed secure access to
acceptable electronic
documents.
Another embodiment of the present invention comprises an on-line computer
network
system having a remote computer accessible network server coupled to a
database server
which contains electronic documents. The electronic documents may be accessed
from a
remote location on the network or via the Internet. Alternatively, the
electronic documents are
submitted from family and friends and regard a deceased and are accepted by
the server. The
submitted electronic documents may be initially accessible by a member of the
network or a
principle survivor through a secure manner to the network. Once the submitted
electronic
documents are reviewed and accepted by a member of the database server or
principle
survivor, the electronic documents are published or placed on a World Wide Web
Internet
browser readable page, such as for example an HTML document. The electronic
information
and the HTML document may be accessible to the public via the Internet in a
secure manner.
1 S In another embodiment, the remote computer accessible network server of
the invention
is a computer which is linked to the Internet. Computer software and hardware
may be used
to connect the server to the Internet. The server is considered to be remotely
accessible by a
personal computer terminal which can be located at various distances from the
network server
and connected to the Internet. Access to the network server by a remote
computer is initially
made via the World Wide Web based on the URL or IP address provided by a user
from a
remote computer terminal. Internet browsing software such as NETSCAPE
NAVIGATOR~
(Netscape Communications Corporation) or MICROSOFT INTERNET EXPLORER~
(Microsoft Corporation) provide a remote user access to the URL or IP address
of the network
server and the electronic information stored therein.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the network server is arranged
to allow
secure access through a query of a user name and password. A user who desires
to become a
member of the network server may select both a user name and a password, or
utilize a user
name and password provided by the network server. Preferably a principle
survivor accesses
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the network server and the database server which is either part of or
connected to the network
server, by providing the user name in a secure manner.
A network server may be associated with a database server that has stored
categorized
searchable material regarding a deceased individual. The material can be
transmitted through
the network server and to the Internet via HTML protocols and the like. For
example, the
material may be electronic information provided by users. Software may be used
to organize
the database in a manner that is searchable and allows a user at a remote
computer terminal to
access the database.
In another embodiment, the database server is configured to allow access to
electronic
documents. For example a user, such as a principle survivor can access and
edit electronic
documents regarding a deceased, or as an interactive memorial to a life, such
as for a living
individual. Alternatively, certain electronic documents such as an online
obituary or
remembrance category for a deceased can be accessed by users, such as funeral
industry users
and/or users in the affected circle who have been provided access to such
categories by a
member, principle survivor or network administrator. Alternatively, certain
electronic
documents may be made publicly available to anyone who enters the proper URL
or IP
address. Certain hyperlinks within an electronic document may also provide
access to
additional electronic documents. Thus, in another embodiment the database
server and
database may contain electronic documents that have different levels of
access, for example
public access, access for submitting electronic documents regarding a deceased
person, access
for reading other submitted electronic documents, or access for editing
submitted electronic
documents. Some electronic documents may be accessible by all users, while
electronic
documents which contain obituary and/or remembrance information may be
accessible by a
user in the affected circle.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for performing
online
transactional operations between a user and a funeral industry user. A system
of networked
computers receives electronic documents regarding a deceased, for example an
obituary or an
interactive memorial. A central storage computer database comprising
categorized
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information about a deceased, or a memorial, such as an online tribute to a
living individual,
is provided. A user, such as a principle survivor, an inner circle of users, a
user in the affected
circle or a funeral industry user is provided remote access to said central
storage computer
database. The central storage computer database comprises computer programs or
commands
which prepare electronic documents such as, forms for a user to request
information regarding
the funeral industry, forms for business requests and/or solicitations, and
the like. The forms
allow transactional processes to occur between the funeral industry user and
users who are
interested in learning about processes relating to the funeral industry.
In another embodiment, users from both funeral related industries and users
such as
principle survivors are interconnected through the database/network server in
a manner which
promotes the referral of services within the funeral industry. Certain
electronic documents
stored within the database/network server may be configured to help monitor
when such
documents are accessed and by whom they are accessed. This allows the
database/network
server to monitor when a user accesses a funeral industry user's electronic
documents.
The electronic documents, such as a web page, may be located at a separate
URL(s)
and do not have to be located on the same network server/database server as
the documents
from which a purchase decision (when an item or service is purchased) or query
(when a
search or request for a service or a subject is performed) is made. For
example, a user, such as
a principle survivor who chooses a funeral industry user, such as a specific
florist, cemetery
and/or funeral home, may make a notation of this on the electronic documents
over which
he/she has administrative control. This notation can serve as a link to the
particular funeral
industry user, and when a user, such as a public user or a member user,
accesses the industry
user's document, the database creates a notation allowing the member to serve
as a refernng
party. Therefore, the funeral industry user may receive a commission based on
transactions
the user conducts in the future.
In another embodiment, various dealers may have electronic documents, such as
web
pages, which are constructed and reside on remote servers, or which reside on
a central
network server. The dealers may be merchants that desire to be associated with
the central
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network server. These web pages may be constructed by the dealer or the by the
network
server administrator. Further, these web pages may contain embedded logos or
other icons
specific to the dealer. These web pages are configured to provide information
to the central
network server. The provided information relates to transactions that occur
between a user
and the dealer. Such transactions include, for example, electronic commerce
transactions and
information requests. This process allows the central network server to
monitor transactions
between dealers and users. The process is dynamic and additional users and
members may
become active on the network by preparing electronic documents, such as web
pages,
configured in a manner which allows a notation of a transaction to be provided
to the central
network server, such as a collection of networked computers which accept
information from
the user.
Therefore, the central network server may set up a network of dealers, wherein
the
dealer network comprises numerous dealers. A user may search for a local
dealer, a dealer
that is physically local to the user, on the webpage of the central network
server.
Alternatively, the user may search for other dealers. The user may then visit
the web page of
one of the dealers. The central network server may collect a commission based
on any
transactions that occur between this dealer and such a user. Additionally, the
webpage of the
dealer and the central network server are intermingled such that users may
pass back and forth
between the webpage of the dealer and a webpage for the central network
server.
Moreover, if a user visits the webpage of the dealer and then sends electronic
information relating to a deceased or a living individual to the central
network, such
information could be associated with the dealer. For example, the information
may contain a
notation of the dealer. For example, if the dealer is a funeral home that
provided services to
the deceased, the information may contain a notation of this dealer. When a
second user
views this electronic information and provides their own electronic
information (for example
regarding a deceased or living individual), the dealer may be provided a
commission because
of the notation. The notation may further be associated with any additional
user that visits the
electronic information of the first user. Further, the electronic information
of the second user
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may also have a notation for this same dealer. Therefore, dealers may receive
commissions
based on future users viewing electronic information of a user that they
assisted. Moreover,
these dealers are not limited to funeral industry users, but may be any
involved in any
industry.
S In another embodiment, a network server computer is coupled to a database
server
computer that contains an obituary, guest book, and registry database with
records uniquely
identifying deceased parties, this may be, for example, an on-line guestbook.
For each record,
a deceased individual is identified and an obituary is provided, and a
collection of comments
from guests, such as for example, friends and family, may also be stored in
the database. The
obituary is created with the assistance of the principle survivor and can be
altered and/or
manipulated by the principle survivor in a dynamic manner. The collection of
electronic
documents may be sent from users over the network. For example, the electronic
document
may be directly input via a computer console using a method where an
electronic mail ("e-
mail" or "email") message is received from the network, containing electronic
documents
from a user. Each e-mail received by the network server is coupled to the
database server
which collects the electronic information in a separate storage area in a
secure manner and is
accessible by the principle survivor. A user in the affected circle may access
the collection of
received electronic documents by identifying themselves via a user name in
preferably a
secure manner. This can be done from the network by entering electronic
information into an
HTML form document, or by other typical computer access means. When the
authorized user
approves of a particular message, the message is annotated as an indication to
allow the
database server to transfer the comments from the initial non-public database
area to a guest
book registry area that is available to be read (but not necessarily edited)
by a user in the
affected circle.
The authorization, annotating, or tagging, can be done in various ways, such
as by
sending a representative indication to the particular electronic document
record that is
monitored by the database server instructing the server to transfer the
electronic document to
the guest book/registry for the particular deceased individual. When a user
accesses the
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network server through a particular web site and identifies the specific
deceased individual to
which they are interested in accessing a guest book/registry, the network
presents at least one
web page to the user with the deceased individual's obituary and collection of
electronic
documents. The electronic information is accessed from the particular database
record for the
deceased individual.
In another embodiment, electronic documents regarding a living individual,
such as a
remembrance online memorial, are used. The electronic documents may be linked
to an
online guest book and obituary. These electronic documents may use secure
access for
submission, viewing and editing as discussed above.
In addition, electronic documents regarding a deceased individual may also be
used in
an embodiment of the present invention. For example, users can create a
collection of
electronic documents such as narrative, audio, video, photos and other such
personal
electronic information that details the life of the deceased person.
In another embodiment, a living memorial of electronic documents can be
constructed
by an authorized user/member, either a user such as a principle survivor, a
funeral home
professional or insurance agent or the like. The documents can be a series of
interlocking
HTML pages, preprogrammed computer scripts or commands or computer program
code
providing electronic documents in the form of electronic questionnaires which
query another
user seeking funeral related information. Electronic documents, such as HTML
pages, can be
constructed by an authorized user, such as a principle survivor, a general
user of the Internet, a
funeral home industry professional, an insurance agent or other party, by
entering information
into a series of inter-linked HTML pages using scripts (instructional
text/computer program
command code) that relate to other databases, either remote or local, which
contain funeral,
obituary, and/or mourning process information. A member may answer additional
relevant
scripts (such as different scripts for gender, race, religion and the like)
all of which are
translated through computer software to a new database and graphic display.
Various choices
of graphic display exist for the member to use when creating an on-line living
legacy. Fields
in the living legacy may be edited. Further, other electronic documents, such
as text, pictures
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and the like may be inserted into fields automatically. Such insertions may
occur through the
network server/database server pre-programmed commands which insert
information based on
user responses to question. The online tribute is a dynamic electronic
document which can be
updated and can serve as an online tribute to a living or deceased individual.
Additionally, in another embodiment a user can construct a legacy collection
of
electronic documents pertaining to a deceased or a living individual. The
living individual
can be anyone, such as a relative or oneself. Further, the living individual
may be a celebrity
that has no relation to the user. This legacy collection of electronic
documents is created by a
combination of a series of computer program driven commands that prompt the
user to enter
specific information. Alternatively the user may provide information for the
legacy collection
at a later time. This helps create electronic information in the database
server specifically
addressing the needs of a collection of electronic information for the family
of the deceased or
for the living. The legacy collection of electronic information may include
such electronic
information as what type of professional funeral services the living
individual desires to have
for his funeral. Therefore, friends and relatives of the living individual
will know what type
of funeral arrangements the living individual desired after his or her
passing. The computer
prompts the user to enter such electronic information into the database. These
prompts
additionally monitor user responses and provide related electronic information
to the user in
an immediate and dynamic manner to assist the user in further developing the
legacy
collection of electronic information. For example, if a user is looking for
professional
services, such as insurance services or funeral home options, the prompting
software can
monitor user inputs and responses to computer driven commands as discussed
above and
provide the user information about professional services while the user
creates the legacy
collection of electronic information in the database. Moreover, if the user
would like to have
direct contact with any of these organizations, the database server can
forward a request with
electronic information to the particular professional services provider.
Forwarding electronic
information, can be done for example via e-mail sent from the server into the
network, and
forwarded to the e-mail account of the particular professional services
provider.
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In another embodiment, while either linked or not linked to electronic
documents
regarding a deceased or living individual, users can securely upload valuable
documents,
pictures, wills, contracts, and the like, for secure on-line storage. A
network administrator
allocates portions of the database server/network server hard drive to a user
who can access
the portions through secure methods, for instance by user name identification
and password.
Selective access to various valuable documents may be granted by the
authorized user of the
account to other users, by assigning different passwords or permissions to the
assigned area to
each or multiple users. For example, a first user may have complete access to
the valuable
documents and a second user may have access to only a limited number of
valuable
documents. Alternatively, a third user may have no access to the valuable
documents.
The authorized user may also restrict access by some users to areas within the
assigned
portion of the database server/network server hard drive by indicating which
additional users
may be allowed secure access. The authorized user does not share the secure
password
provided by the network administrator.
The authorized user may be granted administrative control of the allocated
portion of
the database for these valuable documents. Such control allows the authorized
user to grant
future users the ability to create their own password and user name for secure
access to the
valuable documents, or the authorized user may provide unique passwords to
additional
selected users. The amount of network database storage space which is
allocated to the
authorized user can be up to the maximum available and is dependent on the
available
hardware and not considered a limiting aspect of the invention. Entire
databases and
categorized views of the valuable documents are available over the network.
Furthermore, a
user, such as a principle survivor can access a secure area database
specifically dedicated to
storing valuable documents for a particular living individual, such as for
planning for the end
of life events.
The valuable documents may be indexed on the system. For example, if the
valuable
documents are a will and a deed, the will and deed may be stored in the system
in areas
designated for a will and a deed. Moreover, when selecting to the view the
will or the deed,
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information regarding such documents, such as local attorney specializing in
wills or deeds,
may also be displayed. Further, other such related information may be
displayed along with
the valuable documents. Such information may be readily linked to by users
accessing the
valuable documents. Additionally, such information could be tailored to the
user based on
information provided about the user, as discussed above.
Different types of electronic documents can be protected with various levels
of
security and even different passwords. Access to these valuable documents in
the secure area
are available to principle survivors over the Internet. This helps facilitate
and reduce the
burden on the legacy parties such as the principle survivor and users in the
affected circle.
Electronic information on the network regarding a deceased is linked within
the
database server and cataloged based on the name of the deceased, as well as
other documents
accessible through the network.
In another embodiment, websites for funeral homes are created which track and
are
linked to items mentioned above. Additional innovated queries associated with
the network
can include customer qualification for pre-need and immediate need purchases
of funeral,
death care, products and services. User profiles are created based on
interaction with the
network and network programs. Such profiles are accessible by funeral homes,
insurance
companies or other funeral or burial arrangement providers.
In another embodiment, a website for a funeral home may use a logo that may be
inserted as an electronic document on a webpage that comprises electronic
information
regarding a deceased. This logo may be linked to the website for the funeral
home. Therefore
users may be linked from the webpage with electronic information regarding the
deceased to
the webpage of the funeral home.
Even though throughout this disclosure, reference is made to the funeral
industry,
aspects of embodiments of the present invention are applicable to different
industries. These
other industries may be any industry that would benefit from the described
present invention,
for example the appliance industry or the electronics industry.
29
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One skilled in the art would readily appreciate that the present invention is
well
adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned,
as well as
those inherent therein. The specific methods described herein as presently
representative of
preferred embodiments are exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the
scope of the
invention. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the
art which are
encompassed within the spirit of the invention are defined by the scope of the
claims.
It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that modifications may
be made to
the invention disclosed herein without departing from the scope and spirit of
the invention.
For example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may
suitably be
practiced using a variety of different access methods such as wireless web
devices and are
within the general descriptions provided.
1'he invention illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in
the absence
of any element or elements, limitation or limitations which is not
specifically disclosed herein.
Thus, for example, in each instance herein any of the terms "comprising,"
"consisting
essentially of and "consisting of ' may be replaced with either of the other
two terms. The
terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of
description and not of
limitation, and there is not intention that in the use of such terms and
expressions of excluding
any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but
it is recognized
that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention
claimed. Thus, it
should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically
disclosed by
preferred embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the
concepts
herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such
modifications and
variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined
by the appended
claims.
L1 addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms
of
Markush groups or other grouping of alternatives, those skilled in the art
will recognize that
the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or
subgroup of
members of the Markush group or other group. For example, if there are
alternatives A, B,
CA 02426539 2003-04-17
WO 01/29736 PCT/US00/29005
and C, all of the following possibilities are included: A separately, B
separately, C separately,
A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C.
Thus, additional embodiments are within the scope of the invention and within
the
following claims.
31
