Patent Application
20050289050
Embodiments of the invention generally relate to an automated marketplace presentation and purchasing service used by data computing devices.
Over the past decade, there has been rapid growth in electronic commerce (e-commerce), namely the purchase of goods or services over a worldwide network of computers commonly referred to as the “Internet”. For instance, the Internet has enabled consumers to purchase tangible goods supplied by a wide variety of vendors such as computers and other types of data computing devices.
The current relationship between consumers and data computing device vendors is strictly a buyer/seller relationship. Once a purchase is completed, the consumer owns the data computing device and the vendor has no further involvement with the consumer unless the data computing device experiences problems during the warranty period. This lack of continued involvement is unfavorable to both consumers and vendors.
As an example, consumers tend to purchase a large number of consumables after obtaining their data computing devices. Some of these consumables include Internet connectivity services, data backup services, software, content (e.g., audio files, video files, etc.), and the like. Given the fact that most consumers lack a technical background, many consumers often become confused as to which consumables to purchase when faced with compatibility or interconnectivity issues. This confusion may discourage some consumers from purchasing various consumables and cause some consumers to experience a lesser degree of product satisfaction.
Moreover, in order to purchase a consumable at an exceptional overall value over the Internet, consumers normally (i) visit a large number of websites or (ii) conduct a search using an Internet search engine. While the second option may reduce the amount of time and energy needed to locate consumables at exceptional values, both options fail to fully provide a downloadable, real-time presentation of the marketplace for the consumable and to encourage competition among the vendors of that consumable.
Features and advantages of embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description in which:
Embodiments of the invention set forth in the following detailed description generally relate to an automated marketplace presentation and purchasing service used by a data computing device. This service enables consumers to purchase consumables made available by a provider of a marketplace for consumables. For example, the provider may be a data computing device vendor or a partner of the data computing device vendor. The purchases may be paid in full or on a subscription or pay-as-you-go basis, both of which require periodic payments.
During use, the data computing device may be adapted to initiate an inquiry perceived by its consumer to determine whether a particular consumable, not currently owned or used by the consumer, is desired. The frequency of the inquiry may be periodic in nature or based on the occurrence of an event (e.g., power-up of the data computing device, an action by the consumer, etc.). As an illustrative example, a consumer using his data computing device at an off-site location (e.g., airport, courtroom, hotel, etc.) without any Internet connection may be prompted via an inquiry as to whether he would like to have temporary access to the Internet while at the off-site location. The inquiry may be any event capable of being perceived by the consumer such as a pop-up window, an audible sound or a more subtle event such as a flashing icon or an alert notification similar to those alerts that advise consumers of operating system updates and/or software patches.
In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe various features of one or more embodiments of the invention. As an example, an “interconnect” is generally defined as any medium or a collection of mediums that is capable of transferring information from one location to another. Examples of an interconnect may include, but are not limited or restricted to one or more electrical wires, cable, optical fiber, bus traces, or air when the data computing device (defined below) is deployed with a wireless transmitter and/or receiver.
A “consumable” is any good and/or service offered by one or more vendors. Examples of a consumable include, but are not limited or restricted to a peripheral, software, content (e.g., audio file, video file, etc.), an Internet connectivity service, a data backup service, a content download service, and the like. A “component” is hardware logic, software or firmware.
“Software” is generally defined as one or more instructions that when executed, cause the data computing device to perform a specific function or operation. Stored in machine-readable medium, these instructions may be a series of instructions or may take the form of an application program, a routine, an applet, or the like. Examples of machine-readable medium, which is any medium that can store and transfer information, include an interconnect (described above), an electronic circuit, a semiconductor memory device (non-volatile or volatile), a data storage disk (e.g., mechanical or optical hard drive), or any portable storage media such as a diskette, a disc, tape, card and the like.
In addition, a “vendor” is generally defined as a person or company who is able to provide a consumable to a consumer. Examples of vendors include, but are not limited or restricted to aggregators, suppliers, content providers as well as providers of other types of consumables.
An “aggregator” is a type of vendor who has established business relationships to receive one or more consumables from suppliers (e.g., manufacturers, distributors, retailers, wholesalers, etc.). Normally, this enables aggregators to provide consumables to consumers at a better overall value than if the consumables were purchased separately.
A “content provider” is a type of vendor that owns or is authorized to distribute content (e.g., audio files, video files, etc.). Examples of content providers may include, for example, a movie studio or record company as well as a content distributor such as Netflix.com, Inc. of Las Gatos, Calif. (NETFLIX®) or Apple Computer, Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. (ITUNES®).
Referring to
As shown, data computing device 110 is an electronic product with network connectivity. Data computing device 110 is adapted to receive downloaded information summarizing those consumables that are available within the marketplace 120 formed by database 125 and billing/metering agent 130. The summarized downloaded information is referred to as a “downloaded catalog”. Illustrative examples of a “data computing device” include, but are not limited or restricted to a computer (e.g., laptop, desktop, portable, tablet PC, server, etc.), an electronic organizer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, an alphanumeric pager, a set-top box, a television, and the like. For clarity sake, however, data computing device 110 is illustrated herein as a laptop computer.
According to one embodiment of the invention, database 125 is configured to store account information associated with each consumer. This account information includes one or more of the following: name of the consumer; billing address; credit card number and expiration date; debit card number and personal identification number (PIN); email address; a registered, unique login name; and a password chosen by the consumer.
In addition, database 125 is a vendor-managed database that aggregates data concerning consumables offered by one or more vendors 1601-160N, where N≧1. This data aggregation is used to produce a catalog 170 that is stored in persistent memory of database 125. Updated on a real-time basis in response to consumables being newly offered or discontinued by vendors 1601-160N, catalog 170 includes a listing of consumables available for purchase within the marketplace 120. Each consumable is identified by one or more of the following parameters: (i) cost of the consumable; (ii) type of consumable; (iii) description of (or specifications for) the consumable; (iv) identity of the vendor providing the consumable and the like.
Periodically, some or all of the information stored as catalog 170 is downloaded to data computing device 110 and subsequently stored therein. This “downloaded catalog” provides the consumer with an updated listing of consumables available for purchase. It is contemplated that the listing may exclude certain consumables offered by various vendors which are deemed to be of a lesser overall value than those placed in catalog 170.
As a first illustrative embodiment, catalog 170 may include Internet connectivity service packages aggregated by vendor 1601 from different Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Collectively, these ISPs would be able to offer consumers complete Internet connectivity independent of the location of data computing device 110. More specifically, data computing device 110 may receive substantially uninterrupted Internet access from multiple ISPs, depending on its location.
As an example, when data computing device 110 is located at a first location (e.g., workplace, residence), Internet connectivity would be provided by a first ISP over a first type of interconnect. However, at a second location (e.g., airport, restaurant, hotel, park, etc.), Internet connectivity is provided by a second interconnect supplied by a second ISP.
Alternatively, as another example, catalog 170 may include Internet connectivity service packages provided by a vendor 1601, . . . , or 160N. Each vendor 1601, . . . , or 160N would be chosen to supply a different type of Internet connectivity. For this embodiment, catalog 170 would enable the consumer to subscribe to Direct Subscriber Line “DSL” Internet services provided by vendor 1601. Likewise, catalog 170 would enable the consumer to subscribe to cable-modem Internet services, dial-up Internet services or wireless Internet services separately provided by vendors 1602-1604, respectively.
Alternatively, as yet another example, catalog 170 may include Internet connectivity service packages from each vendor (ISP) 1601-160N. Each of these Internet connectivity service packages is designed to support any Internet connectivity type selected by the consumer.
In order to enable a purchase of network connectivity services, data computing device 100 establishes limited network connectivity with a public network (e.g., Internet) for only a predetermined period of time. Such limited connectivity occurs in response to a specific event (e.g., initial power-up of data computing device 100, every power-up of data computing device 100, etc.). This allows a consumer to conduct a real-time purchase an Internet connectivity service package.
Although not shown, it is also contemplated that data computing device 100 may be implemented with components to detect and process incoming wireless signals (e.g., beacons). Upon detection, data computing device 100 determines whether it currently supports wireless network connectivity. If not, data computing device 100 produces an inquiry to invite the consumer to purchase wireless network connectivity for a limited time (e.g., by minute, hour or day) or for a longer duration.
As a second illustrative embodiment, catalog 170 may include content download services. Herein, multiple vendors 1601-160N would offer digital content (e.g., video files, audio files, etc.) to be locally stored within data computing device 110. The digital content (or representation thereof) could be cryptographically protected and playback of the digital content would be detected and reported to the metering database software by metering software loaded on data computing device 110 as described below. The reporting may occur immediately or at a subsequent time when Internet access is available. It is contemplated, however, that the cryptographically protected content may be preloaded into data computing device 110 at manufacture in lieu of being downloaded from catalog 170.
As a third illustrative embodiment, catalog 170 may include specialized hardware configuration options. Herein, the consumer is able to temporarily (for a set time duration) or permanently activate hardware logic originally deployed within data computing device 110 in a deactivated state by selectively altering the downloaded catalog provide to data computing device 110. Activation of the hardware logic is performed to obtain additional functionality or improve performance of data computing device 110. Of course, it is contemplated that catalog 170 may identify any type of component adapted for selective activation, deactivation or upgrade by the consumer. For instance, catalog 170 may enable (i) hardware logic to be activated, deactivated or adapted with enhanced performance, (ii) new or upgrade software to be downloaded and the like.
As an example, data computing device 110 comprises a voice-over-IP component (e.g., VoIP coder/decoder “VoIP Codec,” VoIP echo cancellation unit, etc.) initially installed in a deactivated state. In response to selection of this VoIP activation entry within the downloaded catalog and receipt of payment, the downloaded catalog enables activation of the VoIP component. Continued use of the VoIP component is permitted, provided periodic payments subsequent to the initial payment are made. Hence, usage of hardware logic (e.g., VoIP component, etc.) is on a subscription basis. As another example, catalog 170 may enable a consumer to upgrade processor speed, memory sizing, bus speed, and other adjustable characteristics of hardware logic deployed within data computing device 110.
As further shown in
Upon receiving metering information from data computing device 110, billing/metering agent 130 establishes communications with database 125 in order to notify and pay the vendor(s) 1601, . . . , and/or 160N supplying the purchased consumable. Such communications may be established over dedicated interconnect 150.
Referring now to
Front-end software 200 is software processed by the data computing device 110 of
Back-end software 250 is software processed by database 125 and billing/metering agent 130 of
According to one embodiment of the invention, each time the data computing device is powered up, Systray software 210 installs catalog control software 230 into a registry, namely a place for keeping information regarding what software is present when the operating system of the data computing device is started. After installation, an icon representative of catalog control software 230 is placed into the Systray. A consumer can select the corresponding icon displayed on the Systray to launch catalog control software 230. Of course, other software installation techniques may be used besides Systray as described in
Metering software 220 is used in order to monitor usage for a subscribed service and to report such usage to metering database software 270. As an illustrative example, metering software 220 can be used in order to count the number of audio or video downloads conducted by the data computing device and return the count value to metering database software 270 of back-end software 250. As another example, metering software 220 can be utilized to keep track of the amount of time incurred when conducting an activity (e.g., surfing the Internet) when billing is performed on per time basis.
Catalog control software 230 controls the display of the downloaded catalog and periodic updates of the downloaded catalog in response to changes in the catalog maintained by catalog database software 280. In addition, catalog control software 230 communicates with billing database software 260 when the consumer subscribes to or purchases a consumable.
In communication with back-end software 250, activation software 240 is responsible for activating hardware logic already installed within the data computing device but currently in an deactivated state. Examples of such hardware logic include, but are not limited or restricted to a VoIP component, processor, chipset, memory unit, input and/or output interface, and the like. The period of activation may vary, depending on the subscription period. After the subscription period has elapsed, the selected hardware logic is placed in its original deactivated state. This enables the user to adjust the functionality of the data computing device after purchase.
Back-end software 250 features billing database software 260 that is used to debit the consumer's credit card or financial accounts upon selection of certain consumables identified in the catalog. Billing database software 260 is also configured to distribute a portion of the payment received with the vendor or vendors who provided the purchased consumable to the consumer.
Subscription services database software 290 is used to acquire and store information concerning the consumer. For instance, subscription services database software 290 is used to obtain account information of registered consumers. This information is stored in database 125 of
Referring now to
As further shown in
As an example, one of the icons (e.g., icon 360) may be used to launch the catalog control software of
Alternatively, in lieu of placement of icon 360 in Systray 340, icon 360 may be displayed as a program icon in display area 330. When selected, the catalog control software is launched, which causes the downloaded catalog to be displayed and/or updated. Moreover, in lieu of placement of icon 360 within display area 330, the catalog control software may be launched using a menu-driven procedure. For instance, this may involve selection of START menu 350 and subsequent selection of a menu entry identifying the catalog control software as a program loaded within data computing device 110.
Referring now to
At the initial power-up of the data computing device, the catalog control software is installed into the registry and a representative icon is displayed within the systray (blocks 400 and 405). In response to an event (e.g., consumer selects the icon, a prescribed period of time has elapsed, etc.), one or more display boxes are generated (block 410). The display box(es) may be organized to request the consumer to indicate the following: (i) whether he or she would like to register with the marketplace presentation and purchasing service referred to for ease as “MPP Services” (block 415) and (ii) if not, does the consumer wish to be reminded of such registration in the future (block 420).
In the event that the consumer wishes to register with MPP Services, a registration display page is displayed. Using an input device of the data computing device, the consumer enters his or her account information (block 425). Upon completion, the account information entered into the registration display page is transmitted to the billing engine being one or both of the database and the billing/metering agent (block 430). Such transmission may be accomplished over a communication pathway secured by secure socket layer (SSL) or another cryptographic scheme.
In response to receipt of the account information (and perhaps verification thereof), the current catalog is transmitted to and stored within the data computing device (blocks 435 and 440).
In response to subsequent power-up operations by the data computing device, the catalog control software is again installed into the registry and the representative icon is displayed within the systray (block 450). In response to an event, a determination is made if the consumer is registered with MPP Services (blocks 455 and 460). If the consumer is registered, the downloaded catalog is obtained by the data computing device (block 465). Otherwise, if the consumer is not registered, the registration process proceeds to block 410. In some configurations, pre-payment is required for consumption based on consumables ordered.
Referring now to
Once registration is commenced, registration display page 500 is displayed. Registration display page 500 comprises a plurality of fields 510 that are adapted to receive information from an input device of data computing device 110. These fields 510 include a name field 520, a consumer identification field 530, an email address field 550 and billing information fields 560.
Herein, for this embodiment, name field 520 is adapted to receive alphanumeric characters forming the name of the consumer. Consumer identification field 530 comprises a first field 540 to receive as input a proposed login name and a second field 545 to receive as input a proposed password for the consumer. It is contemplated that multiple login name fields and/or password fields may be provided to detect a mistyped password and to prevent the consumer from being required to input information if the chosen login name is already being used.
As further shown in
Upon selection of a SUBMIT button 580 to denote completion of the registration process, the account information entered by the consumer is transmitted to the billing engine and stored in an appropriate database structure within database 125 of
Referring now to
As shown for illustrative purposes, the downloaded catalog 170 is divided into five classifications; namely, Internet connectivity 610, hardware configuration 620 and entertainment services 630, photo services 640, software upgrades 650 and other consumables 660 not associated with data computing device 100 (e.g., televisions and other consumer electronics, travel services and any other type of consumable).
Internet connectivity 610 features a plurality of selection boxes 612 that, when selected, enable the user to select different types of network connectivity to be utilized by the data computing device. For example, upon selection of box 614, the consumer is provided unlimited and substantially uninterrupted Internet service for $40.00 per month after completing subsequent forms to select the user name (not shown). In addition, upon selection of box 616 or 618, the consumer is provided unlimited DSL connectivity at $30.00 per month and wireless connectivity (e.g., WiFi connectivity) at $3.00 per day. The prescribed dollar amount and time period for these services and other services may vary and are a design choice.
Hardware configuration 620 features a plurality of selection boxes 622 that, when selected, enable the user to select different hardware logic to activate in order to alter the functionality of the data computing device. For example, upon selection of box 624, the VoIP component is activated that enables the consumer to use the data computing device for VoIP telephonic communications for 10$ per month. As another example, upon selection of box 626 or 628, the consumer is provided daily data backup for a specified period at $4.00 per month and an upgrade in processor speed at $2.00 per month.
Entertainment services 630 feature a plurality of selection boxes 632 that, when selected, enable the user to select different content delivery services. For example, upon selection of boxes 635 and/or 636, the consumer is allowed unlimited downloads of audio files and/or video files for $20.00 & $40.00 per month, respectively. Moreover, upon selection of boxes 637 and 638, the consumer is provided a reduced rate per download upon payment of a nominal monthly fee. This service may be selected by those consumers who download a low number of audio files and/or video files per month.
Photo services 640 feature at least one selection box 642 that, when selected, enables the user to select a reduced photograph developing rate based on anticipated usage. For example, upon selection other boxes (not shown), the consumer is charged a flat rate of $0.25 per developed photograph. Other rates with monthly fees may be provided in order to obtain a reduced photograph development rate.
Software upgrades 650 feature at least one selection box 652 that, when selected, enable the user to purchase and receive downloaded copies of new or updated versions of software.
In the foregoing description, the invention is described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. Therefore, the specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than in a restrictive sense.
