The present invention relates in general to computer systems for creating commemorative presentations, with an illustrative embodiment being described in the context of commemorative videos for use in the death care industry.
Throughout history and across cultural divisions, a variety of different ceremonies and memorials have been used to commemorate the death of a loved one. Indeed, ceremonies and memorials have become integral for helping the living cope with the death and for commemorating the loved one for future generations. For instance, traditional western ceremonies typically involve a funeral home visitation, a burial, and a wake, with the grave site being marked by a headstone. In the case of cremation, ashes are often placed in a sealed urn. For many historically significant individuals, their deaths are sometimes commemorated with a memorial, such as a statue, which is often dedicated years after that individual's death.
While traditional ceremonies and memorials are without a doubt important, they do have several shortcomings. For instance, visitors have traditionally been required to be physically located at the ceremony or the memorial to view or reflect on the individual. If you are not physically present at the ceremony or the memorial, you cannot share in the achievements and memories associated with the individual. In the case of many ceremonies, the duration is limited to the actual time of the ceremony. Any reflection after the ceremony is limited to the memories of those who actually attended. A further shortcoming is the relatively limited scope of the commemoration. Visitations typically involves a eulogy and memories shared between the participants. Outside the spoken words of the visitors, however, little or no other memories are shared. In the case of traditional memorials, including headstones, urns, statues and the like, memories and messages are usually limited only to a few words etched in stone or on a plaque.
Related U.S. Pat. No 6,340,978 (hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference) discloses, among other things, a user interface on a computer system that displays information about an entity, such as a person, a business, a pet, a country, etc. The screen is associated with the entity. A plurality of recordations are associated with the entity. The recordations are of at least two different types and are associated with the period of time. A plurality of selection mechanisms are on the screen. Each of the selection mechanisms are associated with at least one type of recordation. A time selection mechanism is adapted for selecting a period of time. The time selection mechanism is associated with at least a portion of the plurality of recordations and is operative to present one or more recordations that correspond with the selected period of time. The user interface can be accessed over a computer, either as a stand-alone or over a network, whereas on a memorial such as in a headstone.
The present invention provides a novel method and system for creating and presenting commemorative videos. While the invention has particularly utility and benefit in the death care industry (e.g. for creating and presenting commemorative videos about a deceased loved one), it will be readily appreciated that the invention offers many benefits, uses, and applications, both in the death care industry and in other industries or applications.
One aspect of the present invention relates to a method and system for creating a commemorative presentation. The subject of the commemoration can take a variety of forms, including living or deceased individuals, organizations, entities, companies, cities, and the like. A plurality of images are compiled related to the subject. Configuration data is created relating to the display of the plurality of images. The plurality of images and configuration data are stored in a datastore. A video is dynamically created by accessing the plurality of images and configuration data stored in the datastore and sequentially displaying the plurality of images stored in the datastore in conformance with the configuration data stored in the datastore.
One embodiment of the present invention is a method of creating a commemorative presentation. A plurality of images are compiled related to a subject. Configuration data is created relating to the display of the plurality of images. The plurality of images and configuration data is stored in a datastore. A video is created by accessing the plurality of images and configuration data stored in the datastore and sequentially displaying the plurality of images stored in the datastore in conformance with the configuration data stored in the datastore. The video is displayed to commemorate the subject.
Another embodiment of the invention is a method in conjunction with funeral services. Identifying data is created for a plurality of deceased persons, the identifying data being unique to each deceased person relative to a plurality of other deceased persons. A plurality of images are compiled related to each of the plurality of deceased persons. For each of the plurality of deceased persons, a plurality of video display options are selected relating to the sequence and presentation of the plurality of images. Configuration data is created for each of the plurality of deceased persons corresponding to the selected video display options. For each of the plurality of deceased persons, the corresponding plurality of images, configuration data, and identifying data are stored in a datastore. A commemorative video for a selected deceased person is requested to be created. The plurality of images and configuration data stored in the datastore are accessed by referencing the identifying data for the selected deceased person. A commemorative video is created for the selected deceased person by sequentially displaying the corresponding plurality of images stored in the datastore in conformance with the corresponding configuration data stored in the datastore. The commemorative video is displayed during the funeral service of the selected deceased person.
Yet another embodiment of the invention is a system for commemorating a deceased person. A plurality of images are related to the deceased person. Software is operable for creating and editing configuration data relating to the sequence and presentation of the plurality of images. A datastore stores a the plurality of images and configuration data. The system includes a means for creating a video by sequentially displaying the plurality of images stored in the datastore in conformance with the configuration data stored in the datastore. The system also includes a means for displaying the video during the funeral service for the deceased person.
Still another embodiment of the invention is an image submission system for uploading images from a client to a remote server. A scanner is connected to the client operable to scan images. A scanner interface software module is loaded on the client for operating the scanner. An image submission software module is loaded on the server and being operable to remotely receive instructions and be viewed by the client on an Internet browser, the image submission software module comprising a single click user option to scan and upload images. A control software module is loaded on the client in communication with the image submission software module, said control software module being operative, upon the selection of the option to scan and upload images, to direct the scanner interface software module to scan an image on the scanner and upload the scanned image to the remote server.
Still other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
While the specification concludes with claims which particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the present invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:
While the following detailed description illustrate specific applications of the present invention in the context of the death care industry, it is contemplated that the concepts and ideas described herein have equal utility and uses in other applications.
At step (12), configuration data is created relating to the display of the images. The configuration data defines at least in part how the submitted images will be displayed in a commemorative video. The configuration data will preferably include one or more configuration templates that may be modified to customize the commemorative video based on a customer's (36) preferences. For instance, the customer (36) may select a variety of different video display options through an appropriate user interface. The configuration data can be specific to one or more images and/or apply globally to the entire video. As such, the type of configuration data being created can vary substantially based on the variety of options and type of commemorative video. In one embodiment, the video comprises a sequential display of the compiled images. In such case, the configuration data (44) can include the sequence of images to be displaying in the video. The configuration data (44) can also include the time period between image transitions in the video. For instance, each image could have a user defined display time. The configuration data (44) can also include the type of transition of the images (e.g. fading, blinds, box, checkerboard, cover, uncover, wipe, cut, dissolved, random bars, split, strips, and other transition techniques known in the slideshow art). In some cases, the configuration data (44) can include panning and zooming parameters for the images. The configuration data (44) may also include user-specified frames for the images, and background music, colors, patterns and animations. The configuration data (44) may also include introductory and ending screens (e.g. featuring text and graphics that may or may not include images) and appropriate credits. The configuration data (44) may also include text or notes to accompany or describe the images, the deceased person, or tributes to the deceased person. The configuration data (44) may also include links to other sources of data, whether within or external to the datastore (40). For instance, the links could include data relating to organizations to which the deceased may have been affiliated. So, for example, if the deceased was a fire fighter, the corresponding configuration data (44) may include links to images or other data relating to the fire department which may be included in the video.
At step (14), the images and configuration data are stored for later retrieval. In the present example, the images are stored in a datastore (40) as data files (42), and the configuration data (44) populates fields in the datastore (40) or other files referred to in the datastore (40). In addition, step (14) may also include may also include storing, text, and music files as data files (42). For instance, a narration directed to the deceased could be saved as an audio file. In the present example, the datastore (40) is a relational database, but other types of data storage may also be employed including without limitation object oriented or hierarchical datastores and other digital data storage and retrieval techniques known in the art. Depending on how the system is step up, the datastore (40) can be accessed by the server (32) or the funeral home (40). For instance, if the system is operated as an application service provider (“ASP”) or otherwise as a third party service, the datastore (40) would be accessed by the server (32). As a further example, the system could be operated locally at the funeral home (34) in which case it would be desirable for the funeral home (34) to directly access the datastore (40).
In one embodiment, the datastore (40) contains data for a plurality of deceased persons. In such case, the data files (42) and configuration data (44) are referenced by an index (46). In the present example, the index (46) includes a unique identifying data for each deceased person. For instance, the identifying data can be numeric, alpha or alphanumeric value (e.g. a serial number, customer number, a portion of the person's name, and the like). By referencing the identifying data in the index (46) (or other index data), the data files (42) and configuration data (44) associated with a desired deceased person can be readily accessed. Accordingly, the datastore (40) can store data files (42) and configuration data (44) for a large number of deceased persons. The datastore (40) can include deceased persons associated with a single funeral home or a plurality of funeral homes over a broad geography. It is further contemplated that one or more of the deceased persons may not be associated with a funeral home at all.
One with ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the steps (10-14) may be performed sequentially or non-sequentially. Furthermore, the steps (10-14) may be performed all at once or piecemeal. For instance, images may be compiled and/or stored in multiple sessions over a period of time, and likewise the configuration data may be created and altered over multiple sessions over a period of time.
At step (16), a video (i.e. a multimedia presentation comprising changing visual images) is created by accessing the data files (42) and configuration data (44) stored in the datastore (40) and sequentially displaying images in conformance with the configuration data (44). In addition, configuration data (44) may also reference other types of data files (42), such as music, audio, text, etc., which would also be included in the video. Accordingly, the video is created dynamically or “on the fly” by directly accessing the information stored in the datastore (40). Because the video is created dynamically, the video can be readily modified (e.g. by adding or deleting images or changing the configuration data) and the modified video can be quickly viewed. The video format can take a variety of forms. In one embodiment, the video is a MACROMEDIA FLASH movie, however, other formats are also contemplated including without limitation SHOCKWAVE, DIRECTOR, MPEG, AVI, ASF, REAL MEDIA, QUICKTIME, DVD, video CD, and the like. In addition, the video may be created in more than one format based on one's preferences.
Steps (18, 20 and 22) illustrate three examples of how the created video can be delivered for viewing, none of which are mutually exclusive of the other. The video can be downloaded (18) or streamed (20) via the connections (A or B). Alternatively the video can be stored as (22) on a physical video medium (38) (e.g., video-tape, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), or other formats known in the art). If the video medium (38) is created at a remote location, it can then be to the customer (36), funeral home (34), or any other third party. Depending on the method of delivery (18, 20 and 22) and the recipient's preferences, it may be necessary to first convert the video format. Once delivered, the video is preferably viewed (24) during the funeral service for the deceased person. For instance, the step (24) may include playing the video during one or more of the following services: visitation, mass, burial, cremation, graveside, memorial, or other commemorative service for the recently deceased. The location of the funeral service may vary, including without limitation at the funeral home, a church, an individual's home, a hall, and the like. In addition or in the alternative, the video is viewed (26) by the customer (36) or other third party for private commemoration or remembrance of the deceased. The form of video delivery (18, 20, 22) can be different for the various viewings (24, 26). For instance, the video may be downloaded (18) or stored on a video medium (38) for viewing at the service (24) and later streamed (20) over the Internet (30) for subsequent viewing (26). As a further example, one party could stream (20) the video for their private viewing (26) while a different party could obtain a video medium (38) for their private viewing (26). In addition to the delivery steps (18-22), it is also contemplated that the video could be converted and delivered in other media formats, such as a interactive electronic version of the video, a static copy of the video content (e.g. a printed or electronic book or album of the images and text), and the like.
The block of steps (70) are an example of the video creation process. While this process (70) is applicable for the ASP service or other applications of the present invention, the video creation process is not limited to this particular embodiment. The process (70) is preferably executed in the server (32), however, steps may also be performed on client machines. At step (54), the images (42) and configuration data (44) are fetched from the datastore (40). If the datastore (40) contains information about multiple deceased persons, appropriate identifying data from the index (46) may be referenced. At step (56), the video is assembled and preloaded. While the feature of preloading is optional, it provides the benefit of allowing a portion of the video to be loaded and played while the remainder of the video is being created.
The next block of steps (58-66) indicate the sequence of the actual commemorative video (68) of the present embodiment. The video (68) may include all or a portion of the listed components, and may include additional components as well. The information and sequence of the video (68) is defined by the configuration data (44) and the images (42). Step (58) includes an introductory screen or sequence of screens related to a location. For example, the location introduction (58) could be unique to the funeral home (34), the service provider of the ASP services, and the like. Step (60) is an introductory screen or sequence of screens introducing the commemorative video and the deceased person. The introductions (58, 60) can take any one of a variety of forms including for example text, audio, images and the like.
Step (62) is a sequence of slides from the images (42). The slides are sequentially displayed in conformance with the configuration data (44). Each slide comprises one or more images (42) and may additionally include other information, such as backgrounds, text, animations and the like. Step (64) involves placing one or more ending screens relating to the commemorative video and deceased person. Step (66) involves one or more ending screens related to the location. Similar to the introduction screens (58), (60), the ending screens (64), (66) can take a variety of different forms based on ones preferences.
Optionally, while the video (68) is being played a control panel is available to use. The control panel preferable resembles the buttons to control a DVD or VCR, including options such as play, pause, rewind, fast forward, skip forward, skip backwards, stop, and the like. The control panel may be displayed on the screen or be hidden. Alternatively, the control panel may be embodied as keyboard commands.
In the present embodiment, after the video (68) is concluded, or while the video (68) is being played, a variety of options are available to the user. One option involves emailing (72) a worldwide web link to the web page or the video (68) itself, or on the alternative, attaching the created video (68) as a file to an email. Option (74) allows the end user to purchase a copy of the video (68) on a video medium. Upon selecting the purchase option (74), the user will be prompted for payment information, delivery location and video format. The replay option (76) allows the user to replay the video (68). The replay option (76) may either loop back to step (54) in which case the video is recreated or alternatively the video (68) is stored and replayed directly from step (58). The browse option (78) loops the user back to step (52), in which the user may browse other video memorials for other people.
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Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein can be accomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, the teachings of the present invention can be readily applied outside the death care industry. For instance, the teachings of the present invention may be also employed to create videos for any entity, whether living or dead. Likewise, the present invention may be employed to create videos unrelated to people, such as of organizations, companies, cities, causes, and the like. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.
This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10/446,988 filed May 28, 2003, which is a continuation in part of application Ser. No. 10/051,555 filed Jan. 17, 2002, which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/016,825 filed Jan. 30, 1998 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,340,978), which claims the benefit of application No. 60/037,010 filed Jan. 31, 1997.
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