Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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OPEN CABLE APPLICATION PLATFORM SET-TOP BOX (STB) PERSONAL
PROFILES AND COMMUNICATIONS APPLICATIONS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
Cross reference is made to:
U.S. Patent Application No. filed January , 2008, entitled " OPEN
CABLE APPLICATION PLATFORM SET-TOP BOX (STB) PERSONAL PROFILES
AND COMMUNICATIONS APPLICATIONS," (Atty. Docket No.: 4366BKD-4);
U.S. Patent Application No. /filed January _, 2008, entitled " OPEN
CABLE APPLICATION PLATFORM SET-TOP BOX (STB) PERSONAL PROFILES
AND COMMUNICATIONS APPLICATIONS," (Atty. Docket No.: 4366BKD-5); and
U.S. Patent Application No. filed January _, 2008, entitled " OPEN
CABLE APPLICATION PLATFORM SET-TOP BOX (STB) PERSONAL PROFILES
AND COMMUNICATIONS APPLICATIONS," (Atty. Docket No.: 4366BKD-7), all of
which are incorporated herein by this reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates generally to set-top boxes and more particularly to one
or
more profiles associated with a set-top box. Additional aspects of the
invention relate to
the interoperability of STB's, one or more profiles and one or more
applications
associated with the open cable application platform.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Multiple Service Operators (MSOs), e.g., cable companies, are working to
transform their value proposition from one dominated by basic subscriptions
and
equipment leases to a customer service driven value model. One of the reasons
for this is
the recent ruling by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which has
been
upheld in court, that MSOs adopt the Open Cable Application Platform (OCAP)
and that
Set-Top Boxes (STBs) be open to other uses. With larger pipes, more powerful
STBs,
and improved customer service applications residing in those STBs, the MSO can
begin
to dominate the other Local inter-Exchange Carriers (LECs). This enhanced
customer
service value equation is viewed to be one key to continued MSO growth,
increased
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revenue and increased margins. OCAP is a new paradigm that will allow MSOs to
create, or have made, and deploy, a whole suite of new interactive
communications
services that can drive new revenue streams with higher margins for the MSOs.
The
OCAP middleware, written in the Java language, will facilitate "write once,
use
anywhere" application software to provide new features and services created by
third
party developers.
The OpenCableTM Platform specification can be found at
http://www.opencable.com/ocap/, "OpenCable Application Platform Specification
(OCAP) 1.1," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
OCAP is an operating system layer designed for consumer electronics, such as
STBs, that connect to a cable television system. Generally, the cable company
controls
what OCAP programs can be run on the STB. OCAP programs can be used for
interactive services such as eCommerce, online banking, program guides and
digital
video recording. Cable companies have required OCAP as part of the CableCard
2.0
specification, and they indicate that two way communications by third party
devices on
their networks will require them to support OCAP.
More specifically, OCAP is a Java language-based software/middleware portion
of the OpenCable initiative. OCAP is based on the Globally Executable MHP
(GEM)-
standard, as defined by CableLabs. Because OCAP is based on GEM, OCAP shares
many similarities with the Multimedia Home Platform (MHP) standard defined by
the
Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB)-project. The MHP was developed by the DVB
Project as the world's first open standard for interactive television. It is a
Java
language-based environment which defines a generic interface between
interactive digital
applications and the terminals on which those applications execute. MHP was
designed to
run on DVB platforms but there was a demand to extend the interoperability it
offers to
other digital television platforms. This demand gave rise to GEM, or Globally
Executable
MHP, a framework which allows other organizations to define specifications
based on
MHP.
One such specification is OCAP which has been adopted by the US cable
industry. In OCAP the various DVB technologies and specifications that are not
used in
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the US cable environment are removed and replaced by their functional
equivalents, as
specified in GEM. On the terrestrial broadcast side, CableLabs and the
Advanced
Television Systems Committee (ATSC) have worked together to define a common
GEM-
based specification, Advanced Communications Application Platform (ACAP),
which
will ensure maximum compatibility between cable and over-the-air broadcast
receivers.
Packet Cable 2.0 is a specification based on the wireless Third Generation
Partnership Program (3GPP) Internet protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), which
uses
Session Initiated Protocol (SIP) for session control. By using SIP, MSOs can
create the
foundation of a service delivery platform on top of their existing DOCSIS
(Data Over
Cable Service Interface Specification) or cable modem service. Two of the SIP
features
that are particularly important to this invention are extensibility and
interoperability.
These SIP features are important because new messages and attributes can be
easily
defined and communications between previously incompatible endpoints are
facilitated.
Another development that sets the stage for the disclosed inventions is the
processing power, multimedia codecs and storage capabilities of the STBs. Many
of the
more advanced STBs have Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) based on hard disk
drives or
flash memory that provide many gigabytes of available storage. They also have
advanced audio/video codecs designed to handle the requirements of High
Definition
Television (HDTV). Processors such as the Broadcom BCM7118 announced in
January
2007, provide over 1000 Dhrystone mega-instructions per second (DMIPS) worth
of
processing power to support OCAP, new customer applications, and DOCSIS 2.0
and
DSG advanced mode. The Broadcom chip, and other general purpose and
application-
specific integrated circuit (ASIC) processors used for STBs, provide powerful
security
capabilities such as the emerging Polycipher Downloadable Conditional Access
Security
(DCAS) system. DCAS eliminates the need for a CableCard and supports multiple
conditional access systems and retail products.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
These technologies provide the platform for a greatly enhanced, multimedia,
customer communication experience. Specifically, one exemplary aspect of this
invention is advanced multimedia communications via OCAP using customer
specific
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profiles resident in the STB. Telephony application servers have already been
proposed
by CableLabs and others. Phone and STB association can be done in the MSO
network.
Similarly, personalized information for the display of financial data, home
security
information and the like, is also known.
However, an exemplary aspect of this invention utilizes storage of
personalized
information and communication preferences in the STB in a structured format or
via
cookies. The combination of feature rich telephony applications with the
personalized
data stored in STBs facilitates feature rich communications sessions.
Providing advanced
multimedia communications applications using personalized data resident in
STBs could
allow the MSOs to provide, for example, many previously unavailable services,
and
therefore provide considerable new business potential.
The types of personal information that can be stored in STBs may include, but
are
not limited to, communication preferences, payment preferences, vendor
preferences,
priority preferences, personal information, etc. Examples of communications
preferences
could include when to be reached or not reached, numbers to reach, calendar
synchronization, etc., and in general any information related to
communications..
Examples of payment preferences could include credit card information, direct
deposit/debit information, what financial instrument was used for the most
recent
transaction with a specific company, and in general any information related to
transactions. Examples of vendor preferences could include favorite delivery
pizza, most
commonly ordered items, etc. Examples of priority preferences could include
conditions
like don't interrupt me watching the Chicago Bears beat the Green Bay Packers
unless it
is my boss calling, and in general any preference that can be used to assist
with priority
determinations. Examples of personal information could include clothing or
shoe size,
favorite colors, name, address, etc., and in general any information about an
individual(s).
Other such personal information categories and variations stored in STBs as
can be
imagined by one schooled in this art are also within the scope of this
invention disclosure.
Screen menus, pushed URLs, and adaptations specific to various devices
connected to STBs (such as different size screens, different capability
devices, etc.) can
be rendered as part of this process of enhanced communications. Similarly
contextual
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favorites or preferences can be provided depending on what content is being
displayed or
interacted with.
When one combines the integration of a profile, such as, for example, personal
information in STBs, with applications resident in a variety of places on the
MSO's
network, these new value added services are enabled.
A few simple examples of what is possible could include, but are not limited
to,
enhanced web enabled service transactions, mobile requests for goods or
services using
the profiles and communication capabilities of the STB/MSO network, display of
or
sharing of information among two or more individuals, etc.
For example, the user can initiate a service transaction on the STB itself.
The
exemplary menu based request will use the stored service information entry to
key a web
service request. If the request should trigger a human response (like
communication with
a retention agent when service cancellation is requested), then the STB
information can
key to the customer phone for an outbound call to confirm the cancellation
request and
allow the agent to describe a retention offer.
Another example could be a user delayed at work wanting to order a pizza to be
ready shortly after their arrival at their home. The user can access personal
information
in their remote STB about their preferred vendor, most recent order and
previous method
of payment. They can place a new pizza order based on this stored information
rather
than having to key or speak all this information while driving. The user
benefits from an
enhanced user experience, the accuracy of the order is improved, and they can
have the
food arrive closely timed with their own arrival at home.
Another example is when a user has relocated to a new city or state; they may
not
have had the time to develop favorite vendors for pizza or other goods and
services. In
such a case, the MSO can push a list of preferred partners to the new user
that the new
user can edit or modify based on their own personal experiences and
preferences.
The exemplary embodiments discussed herein just hint at the power of the
proposed enhancement to this new communications paradigm. There are many other
potential examples and applications to serve them that are possible.
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For example, it is generally recognized that an intelligent agent is a
software agent
that assists users and will act on their behalf, in performing non-repetitive
computer-
related tasks. An agent in this sense of the word is like an insurance agent
or a travel
agent. While the working of software agents used for operator assistance or
data mining
(sometimes referred to as bots) is often based on fixed pre-programmed rules,
"intelligent" in this context is often taken to imply the ability to adapt and
learn. The
term "personal" indicates that a particular intelligent agent is acting on
behalf of an
individual or a small collective group of users such as a household, business
entity, etc.
OCAP provides another venue for an intelligent personal agent but offers
several
advantages compared with previous attempts at this type of application. One is
the fact
that STBs are already equipped to handle two-way, full-motion, High Definition
(HD)
video, as well as any other communication media. Another advantage is the
integration
of the personal profile information with the Intelligent Personal Agent
application.
Another is the improved security discussed herein. The extensibility and the
interoperability that the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) adds to Packet
Cable 2.0 allows
the full gamut of communications modalities and devices to be leveraged.
Another exemplary aspect of the invention is the use of personalized
information
and personal preferences contained in a STB in combination with an intelligent
personal
agent application and improved security to provide, for example, a greatly
enhanced user
agent experience.
The fact that sensitive information about the user can be stored within their
own
STB reduces security concerns associated with having too much web presence.
The
disclosure or query of the personal information can be established on a trust
basis which
also helps with security and privacy. The push of security information such as
DCAS
makes the environment significantly safer. One could also envision if there
are multiple
users within one household, that they can each have a profile that is login
protected for
personal privacy. Parents would be able to set certain conditions/limits for
children using
the intelligent personal agent application that would also add to the safety
and age
appropriate use of the application.
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The two-way, full-motion, HD video without many of the quality issues
associated with the Internet is a significant enhancement to current
intelligent personal
agents. It could provide an opportunity for video messages to be personalized
for the
party which is initiating the contact.
The personal information stored in the STB can convey many exemplary benefits
such as communication preferences, alternate contact modalities, payment
preferences,
priority preferences, trusted contacts, personal information, as well as
multimedia
messaging, etc. The integration of the personal information with the
intelligent personal
agent also enhances the user experience.
There are several examples of what this idea can provide the user that current
intelligent agents are not able to do. One is the ability to greet calling
parties with a full
motion video greeting unique to that calling party. Another is the ability to
handle more
complicated transactions. For example, the user wants to buy a particular item
at a
particular price from one of several preferred vendors. Offers from preferred
business
partners can be pushed to the MSO's users and the content can be filtered,
compared with
conditions set by the user for a purchase, and the intelligent personal agent
can either
complete the transaction or call the user on a mobile device to seek approval
and then
transact business. While there are shopping agents, mobility applications and
contactless
payment devices, this intelligent agent can provide a user experience
unequaled in the
current art. Another possible variation is for the intelligent personal agent
to coordinate
multiple parties within a household. Let's say an invitation arrives inviting
a family over
to dinner at the calling party's house. The intelligent agents can interact
with personal
information and scheduler software for all of the members of the family to
make certain
that the invite has considered each members previous commitments prior to
replying and
either accepting or modifying the proposed dinner invitation. There are
numerous other
variations that are possible with this intelligent personal agent not possible
within the
existing art.
Social network services focus on the building and verifying of online social
networks for communities of people who share interests and activities, or who
are
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interested in exploring the interests and activities of others, and that
necessitates the use
of software.
Most social network services are primarily web based and provide a collection
of
various ways for users to interact, such as chat, messaging, email, video,
voice chat, file
sharing, blogging, discussion groups, and so on.
The main types of social networking services are those that contain
directories of
some categories (such as former classmates), means to connect with friends
(usually with
self-description pages), and recommender systems linked to trust. Popular
methods now
combine many of these, with MySpaceTM, BeboTM and FacebookTM services being
the
most widely used.
OCAP combined with personal profile information provides another venue for a
social network, but offers several advantages compared with previous attempts
at this
type of application. One is the fact that, as discussed, STBs are equipped to
handle two-
way, full-motion, High Definition (HD) video. Another is the improved security
discussed above. The extensibility and the interoperability that SIP adds to
Packet Cable
2.0 allows the full gamut of communications modalities and devices to be
leveraged.
One exemplary embodiment of the social network proposed here can be one-to-
one, one-
to-many and many-to-one, and can cover both personal and professional interest
areas.
Another exemplary aspect of this invention is the use of personalized
information
and personal preferences contained in a STB combined with two-way, full-
motion, HD
video and improved security to provide a greatly enhanced social networking
experience.
The two-way, full-motion, HD video without many of the quality issues
associated with the Internet is a significant enhancement to the current
social networking
offerings. It would provide an experience that is much more like a face-to-
face
interaction.
The personal information stored in the STB can convey all of the benefits
listed
above such as communication preferences, alternate contact modalities, payment
preferences, priority preferences, trusted contacts, personal information,
etc. The
integration of the personal information combined with the social networking
application(s) also enhances the user experience.
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In addition to the normal uses of a social networking application such as on-
line
dating, discussion groups, virtual communities, and the like, one can imagine
extensions
to the use of this application. One such extension would be the addition of
personal
reviews of restaurants, movies, books, music, and the like. Other users of the
social
network could determine over time which reviewers tend to rate goods and
services
consistently with their interests and/or from a perspective that they enjoy
their reviews,
and could preview the ratings provided about items of interest by those
reviewers. One
could also see reviews when previewing related media. The reviewers and the
users that
tend to agree or become popular could go on to form their own social network
based on
their experience with each other's recommendations or interactions. With the
extensibility of Packet Cable 2.0, a user could also provide a review of a
movie that they
had just viewed in a theater via their cell phone while their thoughts are
fresh.
Many small businesses start out as part-time home businesses. In addition,
some
people run a small business focusing on rental properties, or the like, in
parallel with their
normal employment. Some fairly sizable businesses are run at locations served
by MSO
DOCSIS services. OCAP provides an opportunity to integrate business profile
information into STBs similar to how personal information is integrated in a
STB, as
discussed in above. Further, business application software, such as the
Quicken Home
and Business program or the Quicken Rental Property Manager program can be
advantageously integrated together with business information profiles in the
STB.
There are many other instances where OCAP can provide an enhanced user
experience to business users. Via OCAP, and with a business profile, actual
inventory
levels can be compared with desired levels stored as business information in
the STB.
Since preferred vendor and preferred payment information can also be stored,
when
inventory runs below a certain level, it can be automatically ordered, or
alternatively,
OCAP can provide a pop-up or call a specified phone number such as a mobile
phone to
confirm that the inventory reorder should be processed.
Another example would be management of a rental vacation property. Not only
could the landlord view bookings and the like, but the ability to extend a
rental stay could
be offered to the guest via the TV/STB when such an opening is available.
Further, an
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offer to return at a future date could also be made via OCAP. In this way, the
renter feels
that they are getting increased attention without significant intrusion, and
the landlord is
more likely to be able to keep the rental property at maximum capacity.
While the internet provides some of these types of features, OCAP allows for,
as
an example, a richer feature set, improved convenience and the ability to
leverage
previously incompatible devices in a seamless way. Specifically, the ability
to reorder
inventory when the small business owner is mobile, and the ability to provide
all of the
information regarding the transaction such as vendor, inventory type and
quantity,
preferred payment options, and the like, without the small business owner
having to key
in such information, is useful. Similarly, renting vacation properties is
typically done via
the internet. However, not everyone takes a PC or web-enabled device
everywhere with
them. Offering the ability to extend a stay, rebook a future vacation, or
offer incentives
to good repeat guests can all be done via OCAP and displayed on a TV or
forwarded as
an audio message to the rental property phone.
The use of business information and business preferences contained in a STB
integrated with other PC or STB-based business software can provide full
compatibility
with previously incompatible endpoints and improved security to provide a
greatly
enhanced business experience.
The fact that sensitive information about business(es) can be stored within
their
own STBs improves security concerns associated with web-based attacks. The
disclosure
or query of the business information can be established on a trust basis,
which also helps
with security and privacy. The push of security information, such as DCAS,
also makes
the environment significantly safer. One could also envision, if there are
multiple users
within one entity, that they can each have a profile that is login protected
for privacy. In
addition, one or more members of the entity can also have a business profile
in the STB.
The two-way, full-motion, HD video, without many of the quality issues
associated with the Internet, is also a significant enhancement to businesses.
It provides,
for example, an opportunity for video messages to be personalized to the guest
or
customer when the business owner is unavailable.
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The business information stored in the STB can also convey the benefits of
personal information listed above, such as communication preferences,
alternate contact
modalities, payment preferences, priority preferences, trusted contacts,
inventory levels,
business events/calendar, as well as multimedia messaging, etc. The
integration of the
business information combined with existing business software enhances the
business
owners' ability to conduct their businesses.
There are several examples of what this idea can provide to the business user
that
current PC based software does not allow. One is the ability to greet guests
and
customers with a full motion video greeting unique to each party. Another is
the ability
to handle more complicated transactions. For example, a vacation rental guest
decides
that they really like the property that they rented, but would like to
consider other such
properties for a future vacation prior to the end of their current vacation.
Offers from the
landlord can be extended to preferred guests while on their current vacation
for reduced
rate stays at this or other properties, to retain the guest's business. All of
this can be
displayed to the TV at the property, or if the TV is not used, sent via an
audio message to
the phone in the rental. There are numerous other variations that are possible
with this
business application and profile that are not possible within the existing
art.
Aspects of the invention thus relate to one or more profiles on a STB.
Aspects of the invention further relate to the use of personalized information
and
personal preferences associated with a STB combined with an intelligent
personal agent
application and improved security to provide an enhanced user experience.
Aspects of the invention also relate to use of a personalized profile of
communications preferences and personal information resident in STBs combined
with
communications applications also resident in STB's to enable enhanced
communications
and customer service in an OCAP/IMS network(s).
Aspects further relate to having business information and preferences stored
in
STBs, an OCAP business application combined with existing business software
and
enhanced security within an OCAP/IMS network(s).
Aspects also relate to use of a personalized profile of communications
preferences
and personal information resident in a STB combined with two-way, full-motion,
high
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definition video and enhanced security to implement a social networking
application
within an OCAP/IMS network(s).
Aspects also relate to utilizing a master profile to regulate creation and use
of
subordinate profile(s).
Aspects also relate to integration and cooperation between a profile
associated
with a STB and one or more applications associated with other electronic
devices.
Aspects of the invention can also be used to support enhanced e-commerce in
association with a STB.
Aspects still further relate to business management in conjunction with one or
more business profiles on a STB.
Aspects also relate to setup and use of an automated agent performing certain
tasks in association with a profile associated with a STB.
Additional aspects relate to a set-top box with an operating system layer
supporting cable network interconnectability and providing an application
platform on
which one or more customer service applications can be run.
Aspects still further relate to use of social networking applications and
integration
with a profile associated with a STB.
These and other needs are addressed by the various embodiments and
configurations of the present invention.
The present invention can provide a number of advantages depending on the
particular configuration.
These and other advantages will be apparent from the disclosure of the
invention(s) contained herein.
The phrases "at least one", "one or more", and "and/or" are open-ended
expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For
example, each of
the expressions "at least one of A, B and C", "at least one of A, B, or C",
"one or more of
A, B, and C", "one or more of A, B, or C" and "A, B, and/or C" means A alone,
B alone,
C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C
together.
The term "a" or "an" entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the
terms
"a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably
herein. It is
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also to be noted that the terms "comprising", "including", and "having" can be
used
interchangeably.
The term "automatic" and variations thereof, as used herein, refers to any
process
or operation done without material human input when the process or operation
is
performed. However, a process or operation can be automatic even if
performance of the
process or operation uses human input, whether material or immaterial,
received before
performance of the process or operation. Human input is deemed to be material
if such
input influences how the process or operation will be performed. Human input
that
consents to the performance of the process or operation is not deemed to be
"material".
The term "computer-readable medium" as used herein refers to any tangible
storage and/or transmission medium that participate in providing instructions
to a
processor for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not
limited
to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile
media
includes, for example, NVRAM, or magnetic or optical disks. Volatile media
includes
dynamic memory, such as main memory. Common forms of computer-readable media
include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic
tape, or any other
magnetic medium, magneto-optical medium, a CD-ROM, any other optical medium,
punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a
RAM, a
PROM, and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, a solid state medium like a memory card, any
other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described hereinafter, or
any other
medium from which a computer can read. A digital file attachment to e-mail or
other
self-contained information archive or set of archives is considered a
distribution medium
equivalent to a tangible storage medium. When the computer-readable media is
configured as a database, it is to be understood that the database may be any
type of
database, such as relational, hierarchical, object-oriented, and/or the like.
Accordingly,
the invention is considered to include a tangible storage medium or
distribution medium
and prior art-recognized equivalents and successor media, in which the
software
implementations of the present invention are stored.
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The terms "determine", "calculate" and "compute," and variations thereof, as
used herein, are used interchangeably and include any type of methodology,
process,
mathematical operation or technique.
The term "module" as used herein refers to any known or later developed
hardware, software, firmware, artificial intelligence, fuzzy logic, or
combination of
hardware and software that is capable of performing the functionality
associated with that
element. Also, while the invention is described in terms of exemplary
embodiments, it
should be appreciated that individual aspects of the invention can be
separately claimed.
The preceding is a simplified summary of the invention to provide an
understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is neither an
extensive nor
exhaustive overview of the invention and its various embodiments. It is
intended neither
to identify key or critical elements of the invention nor to delineate the
scope of the
invention but to present selected concepts of the invention in a simplified
form as an
introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be
appreciated,
other embodiments of the invention are possible utilizing, alone or in
combination, one or
more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary content system according to this invention;
Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary set-top box according to this invention;
Figure3 illustrates an exemplary profile according to this invention;
Figure 4 is a flowchart outlining an exemplary method for creating or editing
a
profile according to this invention;
Figure 5 is a flowchart outlining an exemplary method for performing a service
transaction according to this invention;
Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the exemplary interaction between a set-
top
box and a service provider according to this invention;
Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary flowchart for intelligent agent performance
according to this invention;
Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for utilization of a
business profile according to this invention;
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Figure 9 is a flowchart outlining an exemplary method for social network
interaction according to this invention;
Figure 10 is a flowchart outlining an exemplary method for initiating a
transaction
in greater detail according to this invention;
Figure 11 is a flowchart outlining an exemplary method for storing transaction
information in greater detail according to this invention; and
Figure 12 is a flowchart outlining an exemplary method for social network
interaction in greater detail according to this invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary content system 100. The system 100 comprises
one or more trusted entities 200, one or more content/service providers 300,
such as a
cable company, and a set-top box 500, all interconnected by one or more links
5 and
networks 10. The set-top box 500 is connected to one or more of a stereo 700,
PC 800,
TV 900, or in general any electronic device as represented by box 600.
Associated with
the set-top box 500 are one or more profiles 400, as will be discussed in
detail
hereinafter.
In general, the set-top box 500 is capable of receiving content, such as video
content, as well as providing services such as access to the internet,
telephony service,
and the like. As will be discussed hereinafter, the set-top box is also
capable of providing
services such that, for example, the user located at one of the attached
devices utilizes the
set-top box 500 to assist with the ordering, consumption and/or management of
the
service.
Typically, the content/service provider 300 provides content, such a video
content, to a user via the set-top box 500. An exemplary embodiment of the
present
invention expands on this concept and in conjunction with profile 400 provides
enhanced
content capabilities through the set-top box 500.
Furthermore, and in accordance with an optional exemplary embodiment, trusted
relationships can be established between the content/service provider 300 and
one or
more trusted entities 200. For example, the content/service provider 300, such
as a cable
company, can negotiate trusted relationships with various service providing
entities.
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Upon the completion of various checks and assurances from the service
providing
entities, the various entities could be listed as a trusted entity 200, at
which point service
requests made via set-top box 500, in conjunction with profile 400, would be
handled in a
different manner.
The association of the profile 400 with the set-top box 500 allows, for
example, a
richer communications environment to be provided to a user. For example, a
customer at
their home calls into a customer service number. Instead of the call being
rerouted from
center to center based on information the customer inputs via the phone, the
call can use a
common customer routing center. The routing center, which could be one of the
trusted
entities 200, can use the phone number to look-up a key set-top box entry for
the
customer, and the center can then electronically retrieving the stored service
information
entry via the set-top box 500, from the profile 400. The information retrieved
from the
profile 400 can be combined with the caller's requested service, routed to the
appropriate
agent with the information retrieved from the customer STB (relieving the need
to
interrogate other databases or the user and making for more efficient contact
centers), and
additional information for the customer can be displayed on, for example, the
TV 900 or
PC 800 associated with the set-top box 500.
In another example, the customer can initiate a service transaction on the set-
top
box itself. For example, a menu based request can use stored service
information in the
profile 400 to key a web service request. If the question triggers a human
response, like
that from a retention agent when service cancellation is requested, the set-
top box
information can key to the customer phone for an outbound call to confirm the
cancellation request and allow for a retention offer to be made.
Therefore, in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, the profile 400 can be
used, for example, to assist with contacts to a contact center and can be
utilized in
conjunction with the set-top box to provide a service to, for example, other
retailers,
service outfits, and trusted or other entities. The set-top box can also store
customer
service records specific to, for example, an individual or a business. The
same method
used to assist with a customer service contact as discussed above could
similarly be used
to access records or other information stored in the profile 400 to assist
with business
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services, business management, online banking, or the like.
For example, the same mechanisms can be used to push structured information
and menu information for the requested transaction, inquiry, or service
request, thereby
providing a richer customer service experience. This richer experience
combined with
the ease of retrieval of customer service information, personal information
and/or
business information from the profile 400 provides, for example, a
significantly richer
customer contact capability than that which can be offered by traditional
centers. This in
turn gives an opportunity for new large business service opportunities for the
contact/service provider 300.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the profile 400 used in
conjunction
with one or more applications on the set-top box 500 provides a richer
experience for a
user of the set-top box for interacting with one or more content/service
providers, trusted
entities, other entities, or in general any entity that may be able to provide
a richer
customer experience based on the information available to them via the profile
400.
Fig. 2 illustrates in greater detail an exemplary set-top box 500. The
exemplary
set top box includes one or more of a DVR 510, codec 515, hard drive 520, one
or more
customer service applications 525, a binding hardware/software module 530, a
menu
module 535, a business application integration module 540, a social network
applications
module 545, a processor 550, a memory 555, an I/O interface 560, a SIP
functionality/integration module 565, a security module 570, one or more
communications applications 575 and an intelligent agent module 580.
The DVR 510 can be used to store video information, as is conventionally
known,
and can also be used as a storage device for one or more applications on the
set-top box.
For example, the DVR 510 can used as back up for non-active applications,
while active
applications can be run on, for example, the hard drive 520 in conjunction
with one or
more of the processor 550, memory 555 and I/O interface 560.
The set-top box can also include one or more codecs 515 that provide, for
example, one or more of coding and decoding of video information, audio
information,
high-definition video information, multimedia information, or in general any
audio or
video format received by or sent from the set-top box 500.
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The set-top box 500 also includes one or more customer service applications
525.
These customer service applications can cooperate with the profile 400 to
provide various
functionalities to a user at one or more of a TV 900, PC 800, stereo 700, or
in general any
electric device 600 connected to the set-top box 500. As discussed above,
these customer
service applications can include, but are not limited to, ordering, online
banking, call
center assistance applications, profile management applications, or in general
any
application that is capable of operating on or in conjunction with the set-top
box 500. As
will be appreciated, the application need not run exclusively on the set-top
box 500, but
could operate in conjunction with one or more applications, on, for example, a
connected
electronic device such as PC 800.
The hardware/software binding module 530 allows the set-top box 500 to be
associated with one or more other electronic devices, such as a telephone,
soft phone, or
in general any device that is capable of being bound to the set-top box 500.
For example,
if a user activates a customer service application on the set-top box 500 to
cancel the
particular service with a trusted entity 200, upon the intelligent agent
module (discussed
hereinafter) determining that a cancellation service request has been
initiated, the
intelligent agent module can request the hardware/software binding module to
initiate a
call so that the user can communicate directly with the trusted entity
customer service
agent regarding the cancellation request. This binding can be done, for
example, with the
cooperation of the SIP functionality/integration module 565, in that SIP
provides a
convenient mechanism to established, tear down, or redirect communications.
More
specifically, stored within the profile can be information specifying phone
information
associated with the user of the set-top box. SIP protocols can be initiated
from the STB
to specify that the phone associated with the user is to place a call to a
specific customer
service agent. A message indicating that a phone call has been initiated can
then be
displayed on one or more of the phone and a device associated with the STB
500.
The menu module 535 provides an interface, such as a graphical user interface,
which can be displayed on one or more of the TV 900, PC 800, or in general any
display
device that allows manipulation of, for example, one or more of the features
of the set-top
box 500 and one or more profiles. For example, a user can utilize the menu
module 535
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to edit one or more profiles 400 stored on the set top box. Additionally the
menu module
535 can used in conjunction with various customer service applications 525
residing on
the set top box to provide necessary menus to the user associated with the
particular
customer service application that was requested. For example, in an on-line
banking
environment, where their customer service application provides to the user the
ability to
manage their bank accounts, the customer service application can serve various
menus in
conjunction with the menu module 535 that allow the various actions associated
with the
customer service application to be performed. Menu module 535 can also
cooperate with
one or more of the content/service provider 300, trusted entities 200, or
other entities on
the network 10, to provide menus to a user of the set-top box 500 in
conjunction with one
or more of the services, products, or features provided by that particular
entity.
For example, if the set-top box 500 is in communication with a real estate
agent
connected to network 10, the real estate agent could push a series of menus to
the menu
module 535 that allow the user of the set-top box 500 to access various
listings of that
agent. With these menus, the user could set up, for example, virtual viewings
of the
listing in high-definition video formation. The SIP functionality 565 could
also be used
to spawn a call that is bound to the real estate viewing application in
conjunction with the
hardware/software binding module 530. Personal preferences of the user could
also be
layered on top of the menus pushed to the STB to account for their own
personal
preferences, such as skin-type display characteristics.
The business application integration module 540 allows one or more business
applications stored on, for example, PC 800, to be utilized in conjunction
with the set-top
box 500 and profile 400. In addition to the stand-alone business
application(s) stored on
the set-top box, the business application integration module 540 allows for
integration
and sharing of information stored in, for example, the profile 400 with one or
more
business applications, such as financial management applications, run on the
PC 800. To
provide a layer of security for these communications, the business application
integration
module 540 can cooperate with the security module 570 to regulate the type of
information that can be shared by the set-top box 500, the profile 400 and the
other
financial management applications. For example, the profile 400 can be
associated with
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a number of rules governing who has access to one or more portions of
information, who
can spawn customer service applications, who can authorize use of funds, or in
general
any rule that governs, regulates, restricts or allows access to one or more of
information
within the profile, applications on the set top box, or communications for the
set-top box
500 to an entity connected to network 10.
The social network application module 545 in a similar manner cooperates with
the profile 400 and set-top box 500 to allow the use of personalized
information and
personal preferences as contained in the profile 400 to provide a richer
social networking
environment. For example, social networking applications used in conjunction
with the
set-top box 500 allow the user to experience two-way, full-motion high-
definition video
content as well as enhanced security. For example, storing personalized
information and
personal preferences in the profile 400 can provide a layer of security above
that which is
typically associated with a web presence. The disclosure, query or access to
information
in the profile 400 can be based on one or more of a trust relationship with
one or more
trusted entities, analysis by the intelligent agent, or rules associated with
a profile, or a
master profile. The push of security information such as DCAS makes the
environment
associated with the use of the profile 400 significantly safer. As discussed
above, social
networking applications can be established on a hierarchical basis where, for
example,
parents would be able to set certain conditions, limits or thresholds for
children using a
social networking applications to add safety and age appropriate rules
governing use of
the applications, as well as access to information within the profile and
restrictions on
access to the various types of service applications available to that
particular user.
The set-top box environment also provides the ability to utilize two-way, full-
motion video, in addition to high-definition video, and does not suffer from
the
drawbacks associated with typical internet-based applications, such as
latency, dropped
frames, and the like. The social network application module 545 is thus
capable of
providing interaction with one or more other participants that is more like a
face-to-face
interaction.
As with the other modules, the social network application module can benefit
from the various information stored on the profile 400 and features of the set-
top box 500
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such as communications, preferences, alternate contact modalities, payment
preferences,
priority preferences, trusted contact information, personal information,
business
information, or the like. The ability to integrate the personal information
stored in the
profile 400 with one or more social networking applications associated with
the social
network application module 545 provides the ability to enhance a user's
experience.
In general, any application stored in a social network applications module 545
can
be used for social networking. These applications can include any type of
communications modality such as video, text, image sharing, or the like, in
either a one-
directional, two-way or multiparty format. For example, multimedia versions of
social
networking applications can also be used that combine one or more of the above
with
such functionality, as, for example, blogging, real-time white-boarding,
chatting, video
conferencing, or in general, any multimedia application between one or more
parties.
The SIP functionality/integration module 565 allows one or more SIP-based
communications to be used in conjunction with the set-top box 500 and profile
400.
These SIP-based communications could be run in parallel with various
applications run
on the set-top box 500 and, as discussed above, can be bound to one or more
other
devices such a telephone, PDA, home phone, business phone, or in general any
SIP-
enabled device. In addition to being able to run in parallel with one or more
applications
on the set-top box 500, upon execution of a specific customer service
application initiated
in the set-top box, a SIP communication could be established and, once active,
the
corresponding communication on the set-top box could optionally be terminated.
Security module 570 can provide varying levels of security for the information
within the profile 400. Furthermore, as previously discussed, a hierarchical
security
platform can be established with, for example, a master profile that regulates
dependent
profiles, such as those that would be established by parents for their
children. Extending
this basic concept to a business environment, business managers could also set
up various
rules in conjunction with the security module 570 regulating the control,
access to, and
usability by employees of information stored in the profile 400.
In general, since any information can be stored in the profile 400, various
rules,
policies, profiles, and the like, can be established that govern not only
access to, but
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dissemination of the information within the profile. For example, access to
the various
types of information in the profile can be regulated based on who is trying to
access the
information, what type of information is being accessed, what the accessed
information is
going to be used for, and the like and can be analyzed by the security module
570 to
determine whether that access or dissemination should be allowed. For example,
the
security module 570 can cooperate with the intelligent agent module 580 to
assist with
analysis of any security risks that may be associated with providing access to
the
information within the profile 400.
Communications applications module 575 enables various types of
communications application to be used with the set-top box 500. These
communications
include, for example, audio communications, video communications, chat
communications, telephony-type communications, or in general any communication
between the set-top box and, another entity on the network, with one or more
of the
devices associated with and connected to the set-top box, to another entity on
the
network, or communications associated with a bound device, such a bound IP
soft phone.
Intelligent agent module 580 is a software agent that assists users with
various
functions and is capable of acting on their behalf in an automated or semi-
automated
manner. Intelligent agent module 580 is thus capable of cooperating with one
or more of
the other modules in the set-top box, or devices connected to the set top box,
and based
on information and/or rules within the profile 400, to perform various
actions. The
actions can be triggered by one or more triggering events that may be based on
information received by the set-top box, or information sent to an entity on
the network
10. For example, upon receiving a new program schedule, the intelligent agent
could
parse the various shows that are scheduled to be shown within the next week,
and
knowing, based on information within the profile 400, if their user is a fan
of a particular
actor, automatically docket the recording of the movie featuring the actor.
As another example, the intelligent agent module 580 can monitor the various
interactions between the set-top box and entities on the network 10. If, for
example, a
parent has established restrictions on social networking applications
associated with a
child, and the intelligent agent module 580 detects that the child is
attempting to access
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one of these social networking applications on the prohibited list, the
intelligent agent
module can spawn a communication to the parent indicating such an attempt. For
example, the intelligent agent module can cooperate with an email or call
spawning
module and, for example, send a text message to the parent indicating that the
child was
trying to access a prohibited social networking application at a given date
and time. This
can be enabled with cooperation of the SIP functionality module 565 and the
text
message sent to a SIP enabled endpoint. At the same time, a communication
could be
established between the SIP endpoint and the set-top box, and if the SIP
endpoint is video
enabled, real-time communications could be established between the parent and
child to
discuss their activities.
Fig. 3 outlines an exemplary profile 400. The exemplary profile 400 comprises
one or more of business, personal, and entity information 410, communications
preferences 420, personal preferences 430, payment information 440, vendor
information
450, priority information 460, contextual preferences and sub-profiles 470,
alternate
contact modalities 480 and one or more trusted contacts 490.
As discussed, one ore more of the personal, business and entity information
can
include any information that a user would like to store. For example, examples
of
personal information include name, address, credit card information, banking
information, movie preferences, communications preferences, restaurant
preferences,
vendor preferences, billing preferences, and the like. Examples of business
information
includes, for example, preferred vendors, banking information, communications
preferences, ordering or inventory information, employee information, payment
information, accounting information, business management information, or in
general
any information related to a business. Entities can also include information
about items
such as groups of individuals, groups of businesses, or in general any entity
that may not
be personal or business in nature. Interfaces that can be provided that
provide access to
the information stored within the profile, and this information can be edited,
updated or
deleted as appropriate. The editing, updating or deleting of this information
can be
performed via an interface on the set-top box, or via any interface connected
to the set-
top box. This access to the information within the profile can be password
protected, and
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the information can be transferred via or in accordance with well known
encryption
techniques and standards.
The communications preferences 420 provide to the user the ability to store
various types of communications preferences or modalities that can effect not
only the
type of communication to use to access the user, e.g., video, chat, IM,
telephone, or the
like, but that can also be used in conjunction with presence information
and/or
communication routing.
The personal preferences 430 are a set of rules related to a particular user's
personal preferences. These personal preferences can relate to any
functionality of the
set-top box, display characteristics of the STB, operation of the STB, or the
like, and can
be related to any one or more of menu options, communications preferences,
contact
preferences, set-top box management, or the like.
Vendor information 450 stores various information that can be used for payment
of goods and/or services ordered through or in conjunction with the set-top
box. This
payment information can have a higher security level than other types of
information
within the profile 400, such that, for example, a password is required before
the purchase
for goods and services can be made. Additionally, the payment information
could be
limited to use by the contact/service provider 300.
Vendor information 450 can include such information as preferred vendors,
vendors who should not be used, historical purchase information, account
information,
reference information associated with a particular vendor, or in general any
information
associated with a vendor. When new vendors are utilized, and in conjunction
with the
intelligent agent module 580, new information can be added to the vendor
information
450 and stored in the profile 400.
In addition, also in conjunction with the intelligent agent module 580, the
vendor
information 450 can be dynamic such that as, for example, a user accesses a
particular
vendors website, account information can be populated into the vendor
information 450
such as order placed, remaining balance, special offerings, or in general any
information
associated with that particular vendor.
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Priority information 460 includes any information, such as rules, that can be
used
to assist with prioritizing certain activities, applications, or in general,
any functionality
associated with the set-top box 500. This priority information 460 could also
be used in
conjunction with the intelligent agent module 580 to assist with determining
prioritization
of certain activities.
The contextual preferences and sub-profiles 470 establishes preferences based
on
context that could also be categorized as sub-profiles depended upon, for
example, a
particular application being run on the set-top box 500. As with the other
types of
information, the contextual preferences 470 can be used in conjunction with
the
intelligent agent module 580 to provide dynamic application behavior.
The alternate contact modalities 480 outline various contact modalities for a
particular user. These alternate contact modalities 480 can be used with the
communication preference information, personal preference information and/or
priority
information to assist with completion of an incoming communication to an
endpoint. For
example, based on information in the alternate contact modalities profile, one
or more of
the binding module and SIP functionality module can be utilized to complete an
incoming communication to an endpoint where the user is located.
Trusted contacts 490 include information regarding one or more entities that
are
trusted. For example, an entity can be trusted if it is approved by the
content/service
provider 300. Additionally, an entity can be trusted if, for example, the user
has had
previous interactions with the entity and has identified them it as being
trusted.
Optionally, the intelligent module 580 can also be used to analyze
transactions
with a particular entity, and upon, for example, a threshold number of
transactions being
completed in a satisfactory manner, the entity can be identified as "trusted."
The trusted entities need not be limited to businesses that sell goods and/or
services, but can also include entities such as schools, other individuals, or
in general any
one or any entity that is identified as being trusted. For example, in a
social networking
environment, parents can establish rules that can identify certain chat groups
or other
users that are trusted. In conjunction with the intelligent module, for
example, a child can
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request a parent to approve a specific entity as trusted, and communications
with that
entity are restricted until it is approved by that parent.
Trusted status can also be achieved by, for example, the intelligent agent
module
580 analyzing an entity's, user's or merchant's feedback. Upon a merchant
having
reached a threshold level of feedback, the agent can identify the merchant as
"trusted"
which could then, optionally, forward the "trusted" identification to an
additional entity,
such as a parent, for final approval.
Figure 4 outlines an exemplary method for profile management. In particular,
control begins in step S 100 and continues to step S 110. In step S 110, an
interface is
provided that allows for one or more of creation and editing of a profile.
Next, in step
S 120, an option is provided for editing or creating a new profile. Then, in
step S 130, and
optionally based on password verification, creation, editing or updating of
the profile is
allowed. Control then continues to step S 140.
In step S 140, the profile is saved. Next, in step S 150, a determination is
made
whether to edit or create another profile. If editing or creation of another
profile is
desired, control jumps back to step S 120, with control otherwise ending in
step S 160.
Figure 5 outlines an exemplary method for a service transaction. In
particular,
control begins in step S200 and continues to step S210. In step S2 10, a
service
transaction is initiated on or in association with the set-top box. As will be
appreciated,
the original request for initiation of a service transaction can come from one
or more of
the attached or associated devices such as a TV, personal computer, or the
like. As
previously discussed, this service transaction could also be initiated from an
associated
device, such as a SIP enabled communications device.
In step S220, a web service request is triggered by, for example, a menu based
request that has stored information that can be derived from, for example, the
stored
profile. Next, in step S230, a determination is made whether another device,
such as a
communication device, should be bound to the service transaction. If another
device
should be bound to the service transaction, control jumps to step S240 where
the
communication device is bound, and for example, a call is spawned from that
device.
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Otherwise, control continues to step S250, where profile information is used
to
assist with completion of the web service request. Control then continues to
step S260
where the control sequence ends.
Figure 6 outlines an exemplary exchange between the set-top box and a service
provider. This exemplary exchange could be utilized upon the initiation of a
service
request from a user associated with a set-top box to a goods and/or services
provider. In
particular, control begins in step S300 and continues to step S305. In step
S305, a service
request is initiated. As will be appreciated, this could also be a request for
goods or in
general a request for anything. Next, in step S3 10, the service request is
received. Then,
in step S320, a check is made to determine that the service availability is
present. Control
then continues to step S330, where the profile information stored on the set-
top box is
requested based on, for example, information in the service request. Next, in
step S315,
the requested information is retrieved. Next, in step S325, the requested
information can
be filtered based on one or more of preferences, personal preferences,
contextual
preferences, sub-profiles, analysis by one or more of a security agent or
intelligent agent,
or in general any filtering criteria. The filtered information is then
forwarded to the
service provided in step S335. Next, in step S340, the profile information is
received.
Then, in step S350, the service request is initiated. Control then continues
to step S360.
In step S360, the coordination of the supply of goods and/or services can
optionally be coordinated with, for example, an outside party, such as a
trusted entity.
Then, in step S370, the service is provided to the user, with control then
continuing to
step S345 where the control sequence ends.
Figure 7 outlines an exemplary method for analyzing incoming information and
the use of an intelligent agent. In particular, control begins in step S400
and continues to
step S410. In step S410, one or more types of information, such as information
incoming
to the set-top box, information from the set-top box, and information received
from a
user, can be analyzed. Next, in step S420, a determination is made whether to
invoke the
intelligent agent based on this analysis. This analysis can be based on, for
example, logic
in the form of one or more of neural networks, expert systems, key word
searching, or the
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like. If the intelligent agent is to be invoked, control jumps to step S440
with control
otherwise continuing to step S430 where the control sequence ends.
In step S440, the intelligent agent is activated. Inputs to assist the
intelligent
agent with determining an appropriate action can include one or more of
profile
information, security information, and rules, and can also be based on queries
that are
spawned to, for example, an end user. Control then continues to step S450.
In step S450, the information that triggered the spawning of the intelligent
agent
is analyzed, and utilization of profile information, security information,
rules, query
responses and the like is taken into consideration for an appropriate action.
Next, in step
S460, the action is performed, with control continuing to step S470 where the
control
sequence ends.
Figure 8 outlines an exemplary method for business profile interaction
according
to this invention. In particular, control begins in step S500 and continues to
step S510.
In step S5 10, a determination is made whether a business profile is being
used. If a
business profile is being used, control jumps to step S530, with control
otherwise
continuing to step S520 where the control sequence ends.
In step S530, a determination is made whether one or more of a business
profile
and rule is requesting access to a business application. If the determination
result is yes,
control jumps to step S540, with control otherwise continuing back to step
S520 where
the control sequence ends.
In step S540, the business profile and/or rule information is integrated with
one or
more business applications. Next, in step S550, information can optionally be
exchanged
between the profile and business applications. Then, in step S560, the profile
can
optionally be updated with information received from the one or more business
applications. In a similar manner, information from the profile can be used to
update the
one or more business applications with selected information. Control then
continues to
step S570 where the control sequence ends.
Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary method of social networking utilizing the
set-top
box and profile(s) associated therewith. In particular, control begins in step
S600 and
continues to step S6 10. In step S610, one or more social networking
applications are
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initiated with their corresponding interfaces. Initiation of the various
social networking
applications can be limited by information in the profile, security
information, and/or
rules. For example, as discussed above, parental controls may be input into
the rule set,
thereby restricting the type of social networking application that can be
available to
certain users. This type of restrictive rule can be placed in the master
profile, with a
hierarchical rule set that governs all subordinate profiles. Next, in step
S620, interactions
with one or more social networking applications can be monitored for
compliance with
security information, the rules, and, for example, information in the profile.
The various
types of interactions include two-way video, high definition video,
interactive media,
enhanced blogging, text messaging, chat, or in general, any communication
modality.
Control then continues to step S630.
In step S630, the disclosure of sensitive information is regulated by the
intelligent
agent with reliance on the rules, security information, and type of profile.
For example,
as previously discussed, if this is a child's profile, a parent can apply
various rules and
security information that regulates the disclosure of sensitive information,
with, in step
S640, a determination being made, upon violation of one or more of the
security
information and rules, of whether an alert should be sent. If an alert should
be sent,
control continues to step S650 where an alert is prepared and sent. Otherwise,
control
jumps to step S660.
In step S660, an option is provided to manage or update the profile. If
managing
or updating is required, control continues to step S670, with control
otherwise jumping to
step S680 where the control sequence ends.
In step S670, updating and/or management of the profile is allowed. This
updating or management can be user-centric, for example, if a user wants to
add another
social networking application to a trusted category, update personal
information, update
payment information, or in general update any information associated with the
profile. In
addition, the profile can also be managed by a superior profile holder, such
as a parent, as
appropriate.
Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary method for initiating a transaction in
greater
detail. In particular, control begins in step S700 and continues to step S705.
In step
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S705, one or more communications devices or other electronic devices are
associated
with the STB. For example, a phone number or other identifier can be stored in
the
profile with an indication that the device associated with that identifier or
phone number
is associated with the STB. This activity could be user centric, in
association with the
service provider, or in general, through any process. Next, in step S7 10, a
transaction is
initiated. Depending on whether a personal agent or a service provider agent
is being
used for the particular instance of the invention, control continues to either
step S712 or
step S715, respectively.
In step S715, a desired transaction is selected. This desired transaction can
be
selected from a list of available transactions, or, for example, a user can
navigate via a
web-based service to find merchants, service providers, or the like, with
which they
would like to initiate a transaction. Next, in step S720, the service agent
looks up the
STB and retrieves information, such as payment information, from the profile.
Then, in
step S725, the service agent forwards the transaction information and payment
information to the business providing the requested service. Control then
continues to
step S730.
In a similar manner, in step S712, a desired transaction is selected in
cooperation
with a personal agent. As with the transaction request to a service provider,
the selection
of the desired transaction can be either from one or more of canned
transactions, or
navigated to, based on, for example, web navigation. Next, in step S714, the
personal
agent forwards the transaction information and payment information to the
business
providing the requested service. The transaction information can include such
information as the name of the person placing the order, address, phone
number, order
options, and in general any information associated with an order. Control then
continues
to step S730.
In step S730, a determination is made whether the transaction information is
to be
stored. If the transaction information is to be stored, control continues to
step S735 with
control returning to step S740.
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In step S740, a determination is made whether another transaction is desired.
If
another transaction is desired, control jumps to step S750, with control
otherwise ending
at step S745.
In step S750, a determination is made whether a previous transaction should be
reused. If it is to be reused, control continues to step S755 with the
selection and
retrieval of the previous transaction, with control continuing in step S760 to
either step
S725 or step S714 as appropriate.
If a previous transaction is not to be reused, control continues to step S765
where
control returns to either step S715 of step S712, as appropriate.
Figure 11 illustrates in greater detail storing information regarding the
transaction
of step S735. In particular, control begins in step S800 and continues to step
S810. In
step S8 10, the stored transaction information trigger is detected. For
example, upon
completion of a transaction, the user can be queried as to whether they would
like to store
the transaction. Next, in step S820, information regarding the transaction can
be stored in
one or more of the STB, service provider network, and communications device,
depending on, for example, whether a personal agent or service agent is being
used and
whether the device from which the transaction request was sent is able to
store the
transaction information. Then, in step S830, a determination is made whether
the
information should be stored on the communications device. If the information
is to be
stored on the communications device, control continues to step S835.
Otherwise, control
jumps to step S845.
In step S835, an agent sends a configuration request to the phone. Next, in
step
S840, the menu item is populated on the phone with control continuing to step
S845.
In step S845, a determination is made whether the transaction information
should
be stored on the service provider network. If the transaction information is
to be stored
on the service provider network, control continues to step S850, with control
otherwise
continuing to step S860.
In step S860, a determination is made whether to store the transaction
information
on the set-top box, e.g., in a profile. If the transaction information is to
be stored on the
set-top box, control continues to step S865. Otherwise, control jumps to step
S875.
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In step S865, an agent sends a configuration request to the set top box. Next,
in
step S870, the menu item is populated on the menuing service, with control
continuing to
step S875.
In step S875, the menu item is made available for subsequent transactions.
Control then continues to step S880 where the control sequence ends.
Figure 12 illustrates in greater detail a social networking application
associated
with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In particular, control
begins in
step S900 and continues to step S910. In step S910, one or more buddy lists of
one or
more buddies are created. Next, in step S920, one or more of rules, rights,
and
preferences are associated with the one or more buddies. Then, in step S930,
the status of
one or more buddies can optionally be populated on the user's device. In a
similar
manner, the status of the user can be pushed to other users' devices and their
status
provided thereon. Control then continues to step S940.
In step S940, one or more of audio, video and multi-media content can
optionally
be rendered on other buddies' devices. Snapshots or screen captures or audio
sub-clips
can also be provided to the other buddies. Next, in step S950, information can
be
exchanged among the buddies via one or more of text messaging, chat, or any
other
known methods of exchanging information between devices. Control then
continues to
step S960 where the control sequence ends.
Below are examples of transactions, the setup of these transaction and options
for
performing the transaction according to exemplary embodiments of this
invention.
In accordance with a first exemplary scenario, a user is assumed to either
have a
cell phone provided by a service provider or to have a cell phone number that
is
associated with the phone specially stored as a contact in their profile. In
the latter case,
an agent in the STB shares the cell phone data with a server in the service
provider so that
calls from that cell phone can be associated with that user and their specific
STB. A user
inputs their personal data and financial preferences (including credit card
information and
preferences, and bank account information and preferences) into their secure
profile
stored on the STB. At some later time when they make a transaction (like
ordering a
pizza from a local pizza delivery shop), the personal agent on the STB prompts
the user
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to indicate if they would like this transaction to be stored as a preference
for future use.
If the user indicates that they would like to store the transaction, then at a
still later
time, when the user is returning home (where the STB is) and desires to make
the same
transaction (ordering a pizza), the user can use their cell phone and call the
personal
agent phone number associated with the STB. The call to the personal agent
results in a
voice menu being presented to the user from which the user can select the
desired
transaction orally, for example with the assistance of an agent or an IVR-type
system.
This request is then sent from the STB with secure payment information to the
business
providing the requested service for the transaction.
In another exemplary scenario, a user is assumed either to have a cell phone
provided by the service provider or to have the cell phone number that is
associated with
the phone specially stored as a contact in their profile. In the latter case,
an agent in the
STB shares the cell phone data with a server in the SP so that calls from that
cell phone
can be associated with that user and their specific STB. The user inputs their
personal
data and financial preferences (including credit card information and
preferences, and
bank account information and preferences) into their secure profile stored on
the STB. At
some later time, when they make a transaction (like ordering a pizza from a
local pizza
delivery shop), the personal agent on the STB prompts the user to indicate if
they would
like this transaction to be stored as a preference for future use. If the user
indicates that
they would like to store the transaction, then at a still later time, when the
user is
returning home (where the STB is) and desires to make the same transaction
(ordering a
pizza), the user uses their cell phone and calls a service provider agent
service phone
number that is associated with a set of servers in the service provider
network. The call
to the service agent results in the user being presented with a voice menu
from which the
user can select the desired transaction either orally or based on keyed-in
responses. The
service agent then uses the association of the cell phone with the user to
determine the
STB for the user, and then uses this information to launch a secure fetch of
the payment
information and to send the transaction request to the business providing the
requested
service for the transaction.
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In yet another scenario, a user is assumed either to have a cell phone or some
other type of communication device provided by the service provider or to have
the cell
phone number of the device specially stored as a contact in their profile. In
the later case,
an agent in the STB shares the cell phone data with a server in the service
provider
system so that calls from that cell phone can be associated with that user and
their
specific STB. The user inputs their personal data and financial preferences
(including
credit card information and preferences, and bank account information and
preferences)
into their secure profile stored on the STB. At some later time, when the user
makes a
transaction (like ordering a pizza from a local pizza delivery shop), the
personal agent on
the STB prompts the user to indicate if they would like this transaction to be
stored as a
preference to be used in the future. If the user indicates that they would
like to store this
transaction, the agent sends a configuration request to the user's cell phone
so that a menu
item associated with the preference is created on the cell phone and made
easily
accessible in the future. At a still later time, when the user is returning
home (where the
STB is) and desires to make the same transaction (ordering a pizza), the user
uses their
cell phone menu button to indicate the request to a set of servers in the
service provider
network. The request launches a secure fetch of the payment information and
sends the
transaction request to the business providing the requested service for the
transaction.
For another exemplary scenario, a user is assumed either to have a cell phone
provided by the service provider or to have the cell phone number of the cell
phone
specially stored as a contact in their profile. In the latter case, an agent
in the STB shares
the cell phone data with a server in the service provider network so that
calls from that
cell phone can be associated with that user and their specific STB. The user
inputs their
personal data and financial preferences (including credit card information and
preferences, and bank account information and preferences) into their secure
profile
stored on the STB. At a later time, when the user makes a transaction (like
ordering a
pizza from a local pizza delivery shop), the personal agent on the STB prompts
the user
to indicate if they would like this transaction to be stored as a preference
for future use. If
the user indicates that they would like to store the transaction, the agent
sends a
configuration request to a server in the SP network that provides service
menuing to the
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cell phone. At a still later time when the user is returning home (where the
STB is) and
desires to make the same transaction (ordering a pizza), the user uses their
cell phone to
access their menuing preferences stored in the SP network. They select the
menu button
for the desired transaction, which indicates the request to a set of servers
in the SP
network. The request launches a secure fetch of the payment information and
sends the
transaction request to the business providing the requested service for the
transaction.
Below are examples of social networking applications based on exemplary
embodiments described herein.
In a first exemplary scenario, a user is assumed either to have a cell phone
provided by the service provider or to have the cell phone number of the cell
phone
specially stored as a contact in their profile. In the latter case, an agent
in the STB shares
the cell phone data with a server in the SP so that calls from that cell phone
can be
associated with that user and their specific STB. The user inputs their
personal data and
financial preferences (including credit card information and preferences, and
bank
account information and preferences) into their secure profile stored on the
STB. At a
later time, the user indicates, either in their preferences, via a web
transaction, or via a
cell phone menu, that a group of other SP users are "buddies" of the user. Any
user can
have a number of buddy groups, and other users can be members of multiple
buddy
groups for the same user or for different users. A specific buddy group makes
up an
instance of a social network for the user.
Using methods well known in the art, the presence of each user in the buddy
group can be exposed in real-time to the whole group. (Watching a television
program, or
currently mobile, busy, or off-line, are examples of buddy states). The STB
social
network agent provides an interface to indicate the buddy state to a network
server and to
provide the ability to render the state of the user's buddies over the top of
a program that
the user is viewing. The agent is capable of rendering video and/or audio of
both the
viewer and the program being viewed to the network server. The network server
can in
turn render the video and audio in an appropriate format to the other buddies
in the users'
currently selected group while respecting any copy restriction flags in the
program
material sent to it. The social network agent in the STB, and an appropriate
client in the
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cell phone then make it possible for the buddies to share their thoughts,
feelings, and
reactions to the program being watched. Their interaction can be stored on the
network
server to be accessible to the other buddy list members. Optionally, the
conversation can
be tagged and made available for search and access by other members of the
social
network service being provided by the enterprise. Some service providers may
give to
active buddy groups privileged access to desired material in order to generate
interest in
the material by other groups.
A number of variations and modifications of the invention can be used. It
would
be possible to provide for some features of the invention without providing
others.
The exemplary systems and methods of this invention have been described in
relation to STB's and profile(s). However, to avoid unnecessarily obscuring
the present
invention, the description omits a number of known structures and devices.
This
omission is not to be construed as a limitation of the scope of the claimed
invention.
Specific details are set forth to provide an understanding of the present
invention. It
should however be appreciated that the present invention may be practiced in a
variety of
ways beyond the specific detail set forth herein.
Furthermore, while the exemplary embodiments illustrated herein show various
components of the system collocated, certain components of the system can be
located
remotely, at distant portions of a distributed network 10, such as a LAN,
cable network,
and/or the Internet, or within a dedicated system. Thus, it should be
appreciated, that the
components of the system can be combined in to one or more devices, such as a
STB, or
collocated on a particular node of a distributed network, such as an analog
andlor digital
communications network, a packet-switch network, a circuit-switched network or
a cable
network.
It will be appreciated from the preceding description, and for reasons of
computational efficiency, that the components of the system can be arranged at
any
location within a distributed network of components without affecting the
operation of
the system. For example, the various components can be located in a switch
such as a
PBX and media server, gateway, a cable provider, in one or more communications
devices, at one or more users' premises, or some combination thereof.
Similarly, one or
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more functional portions of the system could be distributed between a
communications
device(s), such as a STB, and an associated computing device. The one or more
functional portions of the system could be also be installed in a TV or TV
tuner card,
such as those installed in a computer.
Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the various links, such as link 5,
connecting the elements can be wired or wireless links, or any combination
thereof, or
any other known or later developed element(s) that is capable of supplying
and/or
communicating data to and from the connected elements. These wired or wireless
links
can also be secure links and may be capable of communicating encrypted
information.
Transmission media used as links, for example, can be any suitable carrier for
electrical
signals, including coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, and may take
the form of
acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio-wave and infra-
red data
communications.
Also, while the flowcharts have been discussed and illustrated in relation to
a
particular sequence of events, it should be appreciated that changes,
additions, and
omissions to this sequence can occur without materially affecting the
operation of the
invention.
In yet another embodiment, the systems and methods of this invention can be
implemented in conjunction with a special purpose computer, a programmed
microprocessor or microcontroller and peripheral integrated circuit
element(s), an ASIC
or other integrated circuit, a digital signal processor, a hard-wired
electronic or logic
circuit such as discrete element circuit, a programmable logic device or gate
array such as
PLD, PLA, FPGA, PAL, special purpose computer, any comparable means, or the
like.
In general, any device(s) or means capable of implementing the methodology
illustrated
herein can be used to implement the various aspects of this invention.
Exemplary
hardware that can be used for the present invention includes computers,
handheld
devices, telephones (e.g., cellular, Internet enabled, digital, analog,
hybrids, and others),
and other hardware known in the art. Some of these devices include processors
(e.g., a
single or multiple microprocessors), memory, nonvolatile storage, input
devices, and
output devices. Furthermore, alternative software implementations including,
but not
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limited to, distributed processing or component/object distributed processing,
parallel
processing, or virtual machine processing can also be constructed to implement
the
methods described herein.
In yet another embodiment, the disclosed methods may be readily implemented in
conjunction with software using object or object-oriented software development
environments that provide portable source code that can be used on a variety
of computer
or workstation platforms. Alternatively, the disclosed system may be
implemented
partially or fully in hardware using standard logic circuits or VLSI design.
Whether
software or hardware is used to implement the systems in accordance with this
invention
is dependent on the speed and/or efficiency requirements of the system, the
particular
function, and the particular software or hardware systems or microprocessor or
microcomputer systems being utilized.
In yet another embodiment, the disclosed methods may be partially implemented
in software that can be stored on a storage medium, executed on programmed
general-
purpose computer with the cooperation of a controller and memory, a special
purpose
computer, a microprocessor, or the like. In these instances, the systems and
methods of
this invention can be implemented as program embedded on personal computer
such as
an applet, JAVA or CGI script, as a resource residing on a server or computer
workstation, as a routine embedded in a dedicated measurement system, system
component, or the like. The system can also be implemented by physically
incorporating
the system and/or method into a software and/or hardware system.
Although the present invention describes components and functions implemented
in the embodiments with reference to particular standards and protocols, the
invention is
not limited to such standards and protocols. Other similar standards and
protocols not
mentioned herein are in existence and are considered to be included in the
present
invention. Moreover, the standards and protocols mentioned herein and other
similar
standards and protocols not mentioned herein are periodically superseded by
faster or
more effective equivalents having essentially the same functions. Such
replacement
standards and protocols having the same functions are considered equivalents
included in
the present invention.
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The present invention, in various embodiments, configurations, and aspects,
includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus
substantially as
depicted and described herein, including various embodiments, subcombinations,
and
subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use
the present
invention after understanding the present disclosure. The present invention,
in various
embodiments, configurations, and aspects, includes providing devices and
processes in
the absence of items not depicted and/or described herein or in various
embodiments,
configurations, or aspects hereof, including in the absence of such items as
may have
been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance,
achieving
ease and\or reducing cost of implementation.
The foregoing discussion of the invention has been presented for purposes of
illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the
invention to the
form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description for
example,
various features of the invention are grouped together in one or more
embodiments,
configurations, or aspects for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The
features of
the embodiments, configurations, or aspects of the invention may be combined
in
alternate embodiments, configurations, or aspects other than those discussed
above. This
method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that
the claimed
invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim.
Rather, as the
following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a
single
foregoing disclosed embodiment, configuration, or aspect. Thus, the following
claims
are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim
standing on its
own as a separate preferred embodiment of the invention.
Moreover, though the description of the invention has included description of
one
or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects and certain variations and
modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within
the scope of
the invention, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the
art, after
understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which
include
alternative embodiments, configurations, or aspects to the extent permitted,
including
alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or
steps to those
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claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent
structures,
functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to
publicly dedicate
any patentable subject matter.
