Patent Grant
10909479
The introduction of ebooks has thoroughly disrupted the publishing industry and forced the closing of many thousands of “bricks and mortar” bookstores. It has provided phenomenal benefits to readers including: a) more comfortable reading experience using a small tablet sized device with a very sharp, controllable sized font rather than a large, bulky, heavy hardcover book, b.) immediate on-line access to dictionaries, c.) near instant availability of ebook sample chapters, d.) on-line access to information related to the ebook on the Internet using embedded URL references and search engines, e.) elimination of the need for physical storage space for books, f.) lower cost, g.) constant reading quality over time compared to hardcover books whose pages become discolored and spines break or crack.
One disadvantage of ebooks is that the publishing industry has not yet adopted techniques for autographing ebooks by their authors even though ebooks open new opportunities for personalizing autographs. Furthermore, even current procedures for the autographing hardcover books involve readers waiting in lines—time readers could better spend browsing in the “bricks and mortar” store and perhaps making a purchase.
Signing events are conducted in various types of venues. The most common is a meeting area in a local bookstore, but they are also conducted in meeting rooms of libraries, think tanks, and other interested business/non-profit organizations. In addition, such signings are conducted at book expos or book festivals where signings are performed in parallel during day long events at convention center venues.
Therefore, a comprehensive solution is needed to address the autographing ebooks and hardcover books for the modern publishing industry because existing solutions do not provide the services that readers desire.
The following is a tabulation of prior art that presently appears relevant:
Authorgraph website: “www.authorgraph.com”. Describes the features of their book signing service.
Ally Carter website, “The Dos and Don'ts of book signings,” copyright 2010, “https://allycarter.com/2010/05/the-dos-and-donts-of-book-signings”, pages 1-6
The ebook is rapidly replacing the printed physical book. It is much more efficient to download and carry an ebook then to produce, purchase and carry a physical book. There are still people that prefer a physical book due to limitations of the ebook. It is desired that the reader should be able to do everything with an ebook that can be done with a physical book in order to fully replace physical books and encourage ebook adoption. In particular, there is a need to be able to autograph and otherwise customize the book as part of a book signing with the author. This allows the reader to be able to interact with the author who they admire and be able to associate the customization with that interaction.
3.1 Dougherty
While Dougherty et al. describes a method to add an autograph to an ebook, it does not solve the issue of interaction and coordination between the bookstore, author and reader. It also does not address how physical book signings coexist with ebook signings which are intermixed randomly. There is a need for a control and data management system to identify, signup for an event and manage signing events.
3.2 Dovrath
Dovrath et. al. defines queueing methods that pre-establish fixed time slots for each user for a remote (not in person) event. This queueing method will waste the time of both readers and authors while reducing the number of readers that can be accommodated.
3.3 DeWitt
Dewitt et. al. methods do not work well for book signings where service has been scheduled weeks in advance at a predefined venue. It deals with finding and scheduling a service on demand. It also includes Nested Reservations where a specific reservation is matched one-to-one to each desired service rather than bundled.
3.4 Craft
Craft requires the user to set up a directive specifying an area of interest in order to receive push invitations. There is a need to make push invitations to the user more dynamic without requiring user input while still accounting for the user specific interest.
Craft introduces web crawlers for browsing the web to populate a database for events of interest—corresponding to user directives. He recognizes that the Web is built on HTML, but fails to recognize the specific structure that bookstores and other event signings venues use to display their events—a calendar format
3.5 Paterson
Paterson et al. describes methods to identify whitespace within an ebook and insert an autograph in an ebook, however it also does not provide a complete solution. Issues not addressed include coordination of the parties at the bookstore and sharing the customization across multiple devices.
3.6 Authograph
An existing solution on the market from Authograph is a remote (not in person) solution to sign ebooks in which the autograph is stored in a separate document. The user requests an autograph online and at a later time receives a separate document containing the autograph. It does not deal with the physical bookstore environment or the interaction of all of the parties. The solution does not support multimedia. No solution is provided to manage the autograph—this is left to the reader. Only certain books are supported based on inclusion on the website and the author participation.
3.7 Waters et al.
Waters defines methods of personalizing ebooks and authenticating signatures that result. It does not however address finding and scheduling ebooks signing events. It does not address queue management to minimize the time spent waiting and maximizing the number of readers that can be handled during a period of time. It does not describe methods to manage the interaction of the reader, author or bookstore personnel. Waters also does not describe any method to deal with a mixed environment of physical and ebooks at a signing event.
3.8 Dowling
Dowling describes virtual queueing solutions for a physical resource using smart phones, but does not address the specific needs of managing a queue for autographing in a book store with a mixture of physical books and ebooks or for a two-step process of author talk following by reader signings.
3.9 Walter
Walter describes methods to manage a queue using smart phones to communicate with the person in the queue. However, it does not provide methods to manage a queue for autographing books in a bookstore with a mixture of physical books and ebooks.
3.10 Backer
Backer et al. describes methods to manage a queue using smart phones to communicate with the person in the queue when it's their turn. Again, however, it does not provide methods to manage a queue for autographing books in a bookstore with a mixture of physical books and ebooks.
3.11 Stenning
Stenning queueing is specified to support the scenario where queue members are coming and going at irregular times. Therefore, the queueing algorithms used in Stenning do not meet the needs of a signing event which is a fixed time event.
3.12 Liu
Liu et al. describes methods to attach multimedia data to an ebook. However, it does not provide a method to store this data in a seamless way that can use the current infrastructure provided by ebooks sellers that does not modify the copyrighted ebook.
3.13 Patterson
While Patterson et al. teaches methods to attach video and audio to an ebook. It also does not address how this data is stored and synchronized across multiple user devices.
3.14 Gollapudi
Gollapudi is a location-based approach using contextual hashtags about locations to enable social media interaction with local establishments. It provides the user information of an event or location based on the user location using previously used hashtags about the event or establishment. It does not support the concept of social media interaction dealing with a series of events distributed over a period of time and locations.
3.15 Ally-Carter
While Ally-Carter mentions the author speaking and the author signing at the event, it is not a technical document. It does not address virtual queues or describe a method. Rather it is more like a Miss Manners guide to event signings.
3.16 Prior Art Conclusion
Currently if the reader is interested in a book signing, he would have to search the internet to find where a book signing will occur and then show up unannounced and wait in line in some cases for hours. This is not a user-friendly way of either identifying upcoming book signing or interacting and queuing at the bookstore.
There is no way for an ebook reader to show up at a book signing and have the author personalize his book. The ebook market is large and demands a solution to enable book signings. Additionally, the signing event should allow for a random mix of ebook and physical books.
Existing solutions do not provide the services that customers desire. This invention addresses these needs as described below.
In its basic form, this invention using electronic means provides Control and Data Management (CD&M) to enable new services for readers of ebooks. However, in its most general application, this invention may be applied to enable other applications that provide equivalent information presentation and collaboration services.
For readers of ebooks, this invention provides the reader with the capability to identify a book signing event of interest; register for the event; purchase an ebook license, hardcover book, as well as related special services or products; capture a media data object necessary to generate a Personalized Multimedia Autograph (PMA); generate a PMA for an ebook without modifying the copyrighted ebook content in a convenient, efficient, and personal manner; store the PMA in an on-line bookstore; display the PMA on demand at a location in the ebook selected by the reader; ensure that the PMA is synchronized among all of the reader's devices; and seamlessly interoperate with hardcover book signing events.
Line control is a key feature of the reader-author collaboration. Rather than waiting in line for the reader's turn to collaborate, the reader is free to browse the venue, purchase venue items, or enjoy the venue food and drink. This shop while wait feature of the invention is a major departure from traditional book signings where readers are required to wait, often in long lines. This is attractive to venue owners because it enables them to sell more merchandise—the underlying goal of book events.
A novel push capability is built into the invention to invite readers to book signing events when they are browsing an on-line bookstore. In cases when it is inconvenient for the author to participate in an in-store event signing, the remote embodiment of the invention enables the reader and author to perform these functions by collaborating over the Internet. The invention also includes a feature to initiate a location independent social media conversation between the author and readers enabling them to discuss the book during the author's book tour.
In addition, the invention is designed to provide special services for event signings of the future. These services may include food, beverage, and memorabilia, as well as support for ticketed events, either complimentary or paid. It is envisioned that some ticketed events may become very exclusive compared to current book signing events. For example, ticketed book signings may charge premium prices, but include deluxe services such as cocktails and dinner with the author in addition to the PMA.
To implement the basic capabilities for ebooks, this invention provides the end-to-end Control and Data Management system (C&DM System) for in-person event signings. Key features of the invention are: portability among user devices, authenticity of author signings, security to ensure only valid use by owners of ebook licenses, security to prevent spoofing by unauthorized individuals, push invitations to readers, synchronization among reader devices, use of imaging, video, and audio technology to generate the PMA, archival of personalized ebooks, and use of standard ebook formats. The C&DM for an in person signing events in this invention manages a special type of virtual queue consisting of two services, 1.) an information delivery service typically an author talk with question and answer session followed by 2.) collaboration service where reader and author collaborate in the creation of PMAs. One aspect of this invention that distinguishes it from the prior art on virtual queues is the use of special types of queue and the techniques required to manage it. If the event is a traditional book signing with an author talk followed by a book signing, the virtual queue is a 2 step queue consisting of one information delivery service and one collaboration service. If the event is a book expo event with multiple presentations and signings conducted in parallel, the virtual queue is multi-step consisting of a mix of information presentations and collaboration services.
The C&DM features three configurable capabilities that increase the power of the invention. First, the invention allows for the Off-Site Completion of the PMA. In this configuration, the author grants permission to the reader for an extended period, e.g., 48 hours, to select the parameters for placement of the PMA. During the reader-author collaboration window, the reader and author generate a photo and caption but do not create the PMA. The reader does that later off-site at a location that is convenient. This feature expedites the collaboration process enabling the author to collaborate with more readers.
The second configurable capability addresses the exceptional case where a book has co-authors. In Service 1, both authors speak and answer questions, and then in Service 2, readers collaborate with each author obtaining two PMA. In this configuration, the invention C&DM provides a prioritization number to the reader for collaboration with each author.
The third configurable capability is Book Expo Application where multiple presentations (Service 1 queues) and multiple signings (Service 2 queues) are conducted at the same venue. In this configuration, the invention operates in its most general form with a multi-step virtual queue replacing the aforementioned 2 step virtual queue. C&DM provides these services to the reader using similar reservation and prioritization methods as for single events, but introduces a compound reservation with multiple events at the same venue.
While the exact functional allocation may vary depending upon the embodiment, e.g., use of a “selfie stick” for capturing photo of reader and author or having a friend use the Reader Media Device to capture a photo of the reader and author, the invention does free the author of all technical functions. This is a key aspect of our invention because our research indicates that the authors have a range of sensitivities in dealing with technology. Some authors are very capable while others want minimal or no involvement. Accommodating the sensitivities of all authors distinguishes our invention from other prior art.
This invention is intended to accommodate all of these ebook cases in a manner that meets readers' needs and is profitable to bookstores, publishers, and authors. However, these C&DM methods virtual queues are applicable to a variety of other applications where an expert gives an introductory talk at a scheduled time to a group of users and then engages in a one on one collaboration with each of the users. The information delivery service may take any number and address any subjects, e.g., instruction on a range of subjects such as needlework, creative writing, art, meditation, or office tools. During the one-on-one collaboration service, the user and expert would collaborate to improve the user's (student's) ability culminating in the creation of an application specific PMA. This might be a photo integrated into the expert's lecture notes or a video presented by the author during the introductory talk. Also, the invention supports this broader set of application with the multi-step extension where multiple sessions are conducted in parallel.
The objective of this invention is to provide the lifecycle Control and Data Management (CD&M) services necessary for the provision of the Service 1 information presentation service and the Service 2 information collaboration service. It may be configured to operate to an arbitrary number of such services or the traditional collaboration of reader and author following an author presentation during on-premises book signings. It is also compatible with traditional autographing of hardcover books as well as other media embodiments described in Section 13.
The lifecycle begins with the invention using electronic means to capture the announcements of Service 1 and Service 2 events and then display this information for readers; it continues through the storage, archival, and retrieval of the PMA. The geographical range of the invention supports a range of venues holding event signings for readers across the United States. Such venues are typically bookstores but may include think tanks, libraries, auditoriums, and other meeting places. The specific venue is not relevant to the invention. What does matter is the size of the venue and that the configuration parameters are set to accommodate venue size, either small or large venue. Rather than being a sequential series of steps, the operation of this invention involves parallel activities. At the top level, it consists of Events Data Collection activity performed in parallel with many local Event at various stages of progress. The Ongoing Data Collection activity is a periodic activity and uses electronic means to retrieve event data (book title, genre, author, ISBN, date, time, location, special services) from participating bookstores and other entities, enter the data into a database, format it for display, and respond to user queries to the database.
Each local event activity is organized into three phases: Pre-Event, Event, and Post-Event.
The 5 Event Web Sites are the existing sites on the Internet used by bookstores and other entities conducting signing events to advertise these events. The 6 Network is the Internet used by consumers and businesses in the United States for commercial or personal use to perform email, file transfer, web access for such activities as social media, e-commerce, and other electronic media activities. The 8 WiFi is the IEEE 802 standard wireless local area network interconnected to the Internet by a 9 Router.
Also,
The Multimedia Notes and Highlights file is an extension of traditional Notes and Highlights files to accommodate PMAs. In this invention, it is a text file of ebook metadata consisting of:
The Pre-Event phase begins when the event is entered into the database for display to the reader. The activities include:
The Pre-Event phase ends and the Event Phase begins when the 3 Local Control Device begins execution of a protocol welcoming readers to the signing event by electronic means as described below.
The special services are one feature of the invention designed to attract ebook readers to physical venues such as “bricks and mortar” stores. These services enable the bookstore owner to offer a unique service to readers that will increase reader “traffic” into the store resulting in increased sales.
As discussed above, the 8 WiFi infrastructure consists of a 9 Router to interconnect to the 6 Internet and 10 Access Points to provide interconnection of the 8 WiFi with 7 venue wired local area networks and execute the triangulation algorithm for calculating position with the 1 Reader Media Device. The number and location of 10 Access Points is configured based on the accuracy required.
The 8 WiFi is a semi-public facility for the patrons of the venue only. The WiFi username and password are openly available for patrons, not required or distributed in a user friendly method, e.g. posted on signs at the venue.
The Event Phase begins when Readers (denoted by Readers 1a, 1b, and 1c as shown in
The invention applies to readers who own hardcover books and have smartphones, but they will obtain physical autographs rather than PMAs. However, they will have the benefits of being notified when the author is ready to sign their book and will not have to wait in line.
After the reader and author have collaborated to generate a PMA as described above, the Event Phase has been completed for that reader. The Post Event activities include:
When the reader later opens the ebook associated with a particular Service 2 Event on another of his/her devices, the 130 eReader software component, depicted in
This invention is directly applicable to ebooks that have published according to open standards, but it also applicable to ebooks that have published with Data Rights Management Protection. In the latter case, the invention would require access to the protected copyrighted material to insert the PMA.
As shown in
The scope of 120 Event Management activities comprise the querying of the 211 Event Signings Database in the 2 Master Control Device to identify events of interest to reader; registering for such events; interfacing with the 145 Calendar component to generate reminders; interfacing with 160 Sales Management component when the reader desires to purchase either an ebook or hardcover book; coordinating the signing schedule with the 3 Local Control Device at the Signing Event; and providing status to the 2 Master Control Device.
The scope of the 125 Signing Control activities comprises generating the PMA, selecting the location for the PMA to be inserted into the ebook, interfacing with 175 camera control for capture of the image, interfacing with 170 screen control for capture of the personalized annotation, and storing the PMA in the reader's ebook Notes and Highlights file.
The 1 Reader Device software also includes 130 ebook Reader with 135 ebook Library consisting of ebook licenses, ebooks, and ebook metadata. This software is similar to existing eReaders, but it is enhanced to read and store PMAs. Specifically, the 130 eReader component utilized in the invention retrieves the PMA from the reader's Notes and Highlights file to display the PMA in the ebook at a location of the reader's choice. It hides the PMA, when the reader taps an X on the PMA. With this capability, the copyrighted ebook is not changed.
The 160 Sales Management software component is an e-commerce front-end enabling the reader to purchase ebooks and hardcover books via the 4 OLV and to either purchase or obtain special services directly from the local store.
The 165 User Account Management is a user account system provides traditional account management functions for reader access to the 2 Master Control Device and 4 OLV.
The 110 Indoor Navigation component is the software component that helps the user to navigate in large commercial buildings such as a convention center. The map of the facility, expected walking speed and locations of scheduled readers events in x,y,z co-ordinates are downloaded to the 1 Reader Device upon arrival. The 110 Indoor Navigation component provides the user with real time directions to the next location in the building where the reader is registered for a Service. This software makes use of commercially available technology that in most cases is based on the WiFi Certified Location standard as defined by the WiFi Alliance. There are other possible schemes that would be used as well to support this feature and this invention could use any of the commercially available methods that support indoor building navigation.
Wi-Fi Location uses the time-of-flight approach as defined by the Fine Timing Measurement (FTM) protocol in IEEE standard 802.11-2016. FTM calculates an accurate distance from a mobile device to an access point (AP). Each AP in a Wi-Fi Location network is configured with its exact location, including geospatial coordinates (latitude, longitude, and altitude). The number and location of the APs in a facility must be designed to support the desired accuracy. This allows more precise location determination than with other solutions, even in multilevel structures. WiFi Certified Location improves the accuracy of location data to the meter-level thus providing GPS like services inside the building. Given meter level accuracy and average walking speeds of 1.4 meters per second, arrival times can be accurately estimated within 10 seconds. The bigger variation will be from unscheduled stops so the estimated arrival time will be sent regularly to the 3 Local Control Device to account for this.
The 115 Navigation Updater component transmits the position and estimated arrival time of the 1 Reader to the 3 Local Control Device. The rate at which the information is transmitted is configurable by the 3 Local Control Device.
Other software components comprising the 1 Reader Device are readily available on all smartphones: 140 Text and Social Media, 145 Calendar, 150 Media Player, 155 Audio Control, 170 Screen Control, 175 Camera Control, 180 Browser, 185 Network Interface, and 190 GPS Interface.
The 196 eCommerce component in the Reader Media Device implements the Shop While Wait feature of the invention of the invention. It interfaces the camera for scanning identifying codes of items for purchase, converting these codes to digital format, generating purchase request messages, and executing ecommerce transactions.
Implementing a novel feature of the invention, the 265 Social Media Management component generates the handle and location independent hash tag for insertion into the Registration Confirmation Message transmitted to the 1 Reader Media Device. These parameters identify the social media conversation between the author and readers prior to the event.
For the computation of travel times used in the “push invitation” algorithm, the 270 Mapping Program Interface accesses external mapping software to compute estimated travel times either by driving, walking, or public transportation between the reader location and an event venue.
The 3 Local Control Device software may be implemented to accommodate a single simultaneous event or multiple Service 1 and Service 2 events occurring simultaneously.
7.1 Basic Pre-Event Operation
The 220 Signing Events Collection module in 2 Master Control Device transmits a request through the 6 Network using standard protocols to retrieve the current event page from each 5 Event Web Site. In response, the 5 Event Web Site transmits an event file describing the current schedule of events to the 2 Master Control Device. It extracts the Service 1 and Service 2 event data from the schedule stored in calendar format seven days per week twelve months per year for ease of processing.
The 220 Events Collection modules in the 2 Master Control Device parses the calendar data for each author and location, and organize it into Service 1 and Service 2 events, and store them in the 211 Events Database; it checks for new events and updates of events already stored in the database and forwards relevant data to the 225 Database Management System module for storage in the 211 Events Database.
These data elements include but are not limited to ebook title, subtitle, ISBN, author(s), date of signing, time of signing, place of signing, address of signing, related graphic media objects, and (available) Special Services.
In parsing the received event file, the 2 Master Control Device may detect additional URLs, e.g., the full set of Service 1 and Service 2 events could not fit one Web page. The 2 Master Control Device repeats this process for all URLs detected in the parsing.
The 2 Master Control Device queries all 5 Event Web Sites during one update. The timing and frequency of periodic updates are configurable parameters of the invention. The parameters should be set so that the event signing data is reset on a daily basis with minimal performance impact on the performance experienced by the reader.
After the reader enters such menu data, the 120 Event Management component in the 1 Reader Device receives the input via 170 Screen Control. The 120 Event Management component processes the inputs and transmits a request message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard network protocols to the 2 Master Control Device to query the 211 Event Database. The 250 Signing Display component in the 2 Master Control Device receives the request and queries the 211 Events Database to retrieve the relevant data and generates and formats a response message. It transmits the response through the 6 Network via the 260 Network Interface using standard protocols to the 1 Reader Device for display to the reader with options to register for the events, purchase the books in either ebook or hardcover format, and/or obtain special services. Upon identifying an event of interest, the reader registers for the event in order to obtain a PMA with or without special services. When registering for an event, the reader specifies the number of persons attending the event, e.g., single person, couple. One PMA is generated for each registered event.
The reader may or may not purchase a book for the event because the reader may already own an ebook license. In addition, the reader may make additional queries.
If the reader has selected the option to purchase either an ebook license or hardcover book associated with the signing event and to register for a signing event, an ecommerce transaction is performed with 4 OLV via the 2 Master Control Device. In this case the 160 Sales Management component in the 1 Reader Device extracts the relevant user information from the 165 User Account component and displays the information to the reader via the 170 Screen Control component allowing the reader to edit the data. The reader enters his/her 4 OLV user account and credit information to enable the transaction, e.g. userID, social mediaID (optional), password, credit card information, or payment data. The UserID and password for the 4 OLV and 2 Master Control Device may often be configured to be the same for ease of use, but in some embodiments they may be different.
The 160 Sales Management component then executes the ecommerce transaction to purchase the book and register for the signing event by transmitting a message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard ecommerce protocols to the 230 Event Registration component in the 2 Master Control Device. The 230 Event Registration first performs the ecommerce transaction by extracting the purchase parameters from the message and transmitting a purchase message over the 6 Network to the 4 OLV.
The 430 User Sales component in the 4 OLV executes the transaction by authenticating the reader UserID-password, approving payment, and checking the order for any errors. Inventory would be checked for hardcover orders. It then replies to the 2 Master Control Device with its approval for the purchase and for the ebook provides a URL enabling the reader to retrieve the ebook via the 6 Network. The 2 Master Control Device forwards the response to the 1 Reader Device over the 6 Network. The 235 Transaction Logging component in the 2 Master Control Device logs the transaction.
Then the 230 Event Registration component proceeds with the signing event registration. It generates an event registration message and transmits it through the 6 Network to the 330 Line Control component in the 3 Local Control Device. This message includes the reader name, userID, security parameters (public encryption key of 1 Reader Device), and event parameters (author name, book title, date, time).
Before confirming the registration, the 3 Local Control Device verifies that there is available service capacity to accommodate the reader for the requested for event. For traditional book events, service capacity is seating capacity. If not, the request is rejected.
The 3 Local Control Device Generates a registration confirmation number that may be configured with semantic meaning. Such meaning may include a reader priority to be used in providing special services or in the calculation of the Line Control Number.
The 3 Local Control Device stores the registration in the 311 Virtual Queue and confirms the registration by transmitting a registration confirmation message to the 230 Event Registration component in the 2 Master Control Device. This message provides the reader with a registration confirmation number, social media identifiers (e.g., Twitter name, hashtag) for the event, and other event or facility information (Name, Address, GPS co-ordinates of the bookstore, security parameters (public key) of 3 Local Control Device).
The 2 Master Control Device stores the registration in 212 Reader Schedule database. The 230 Event Registration component then transmits a Registration Confirmation message via electronic means, shown in
The autograph window time is a configured parameter specifying the allowable begin and end times for the reader for setting the PMA parameters, e.g., location in the ebook (page number, x-y co-ordinates). The window may be constrained to the collaboration time with the author or may start before or may end after.
Upon reader request, the 1 Reader Media Device displays of Registration Confirmation Message contents except for security parameters userIDs, passwords, encryption keys, and the autograph page window times.
The 120 Event Management component adds the event to the reader's personal 145 Calendar for generation of reminder notices to the reader. The app also sets a timer to wake up the 120 Event Management component on the day of the event to check for arrival at the local bookstore and begin execution of the Arrival-Welcome protocol. This timer is set a configurable number of minutes before the scheduled time of the event.
If the reader has selected any Special Services, e.g., reserved seating, complimentary coffee, parameters for these services are included in the registration confirmation message. If the special services require pre-payment such as food and beverage, an e-commerce transaction is performed to select the item and execute the electronic transaction and then such parameters are included in the message.
For ebook purchases, the reader downloads the ebook directly from the 4 OLV to the 1 Reader Device as one would normally do for a traditional ebook purchase. Hardcover books are shipped through normal delivery means or picked up at the bookstore when getting the PMA.
If the reader only selects a signing event of interest to attend and obtain a PMA (no ebook purchase), the reader selects the Register option on the 1 Reader Device display. This requires validation of the reader's ebook license.
For Signing Event Registration, the 120 Event Management component processes and forms an Event Registration message from Account Information and Event Announcement and transmits the message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard protocols to the 230 Event Registration in the 2 Master Control Device. Upon receipt at the 2 Master Control Device, the 230 Event Registration component checks whether the ebook license must be validated. Since the reader has not selected the purchase option in this case, the 230 Event Registration component continues with ebook license validation by transmitting a license validation request message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard protocols to the 4 OLV. The 430 User Sales component in the 4 OLV validates that the reader holds a valid license of the ebook and responds with a message to the 230 Event Registration component indicating that the reader holds a valid license.
After the ebook license has been validated, the 230 Event Registration continues with Event registration as described above. The reader may repeat these actions for additional signing events.
After having registered for a signing event, the reader may select the location for insertion and identifying icon for the PMA during either in the Pre-Event phase or the Event phase by opening the app on the smartphone and selecting the insert PMA menu option. The 125 Signing Control component via 170 Screen Control provides the reader options to either provide textual input page number, x-y co-ordinates (start: upper left, end: lower left) or to open the ebook using the 130 Reader component and point to the desired insertion location. The 125 Signing Control stores the requested insertion location (and size) where the PMA is inserted after the reader and author collaborate to generate the PMA.
The 125 Signing Control component via 170 Screen Control provides the reader options to select the available icons by menu display or to import a graphic image that may be used as the icon. After the reader makes a selection, the 125 Signing Control component stores the requested selection.
In some cases, the reader may not find any signings in the local area. In these cases, the reader may order a signed hardcopy from a non-local bookstore and have it shipped. The purchase and registration functions as describes above; a bookstore rep serves as a proxy to obtain the author signature. The reader may have the signed copy shipped to a home address or to a local address or to a local bookstore (to obtain free shipping and increase traffic to the store).
7.2 Social Media Engagement
After the reader has completed registration for an event, the reader may use social media to engage the author and other readers who will be attending the event. After receiving the Registration Confirmation message, the 140 Text Social Media component in 1 Reader Device is configured to receive text messages based on the 2 Master Control Device social media name for the event sponsor and the event identifier (hashtag). Readers and the author can review and respond engaging in a conversation about the event. Also, the author can tailor his/her comments at the event to the interests of the readers gleaned during the conversation. This conversation continues as the author continues his/her book tour from city to city.
What distinguishes this social media conversation versus other event based social media conversations is that this conversation proceeds as the author continues his/her book tour from city to city. It is a location independent conversation based on the location independent subject, namely corresponding to the ebook and evolves as the author speaks to different audiences.
7.3 Push Invitation
The 440 Storefront Management component in the 4 OLV performs checks to determine if the book is a candidate for Service 1 and/Service 2 events based on genre and publication date. For example, such events are often held for new novels biographies, and current affairs books, but seldom held for new text and reference books. Also, the 440 Storefront Management identifies other related candidate books for events based on the author, book genre, and publication. For example, if the reader has clicked on an espionage book by author David Ignatius, the reader may also be interested in an espionage book by author Daniel Silva. Therefore, if there are recent books by both, they are both candidates for events.
When the 440 Storefront Management identifies candidates for events, it sends a query to the 210 Event Management component in the 2 Master Control Device to determine if there are Service 1 and/or Service 2 events convenient to the reader. The 210 Event Management component queries the 225 Database Management component to check for such events. As a first order of convenience, the 210 Event Management Component checks for events in matching Zip Codes. It then further refines the search using travel time, a configurable parameter, of the reader's location for book identified by the invention algorithm. Travel distance, may be measured by walking, driving, or public transportation travel time, is computed by accessing external mapping software using the 270 Mapping Software Interface.
If there are any such events meeting the convenience criteria, the 2 Master Control Device sends a “Push Invitation” message to the 120 Event Management component in the 1 Reader Media Device inviting the reader to these events.
If the reader is interested in any of these Events offered in the Push Invitations, the reader invokes the registration process for events as described above.
7.4 Basic Event Operation
Since the reader may use smartphones, tablets, portable PCs, or desktop PCs to make reservations, whenever the application is opened on the 120 Event Management checks with the 2 Master Control Device to download and synchronize any reservations that may have been made on any other devices.
This section describes the basic event operation where the invention supports one Service 1 event followed by Service 2 event in a small venue. This corresponds to a traditional event signing.
For small venues the reader can quickly identify the 12 Event Area upon reaching the 7 Venue. Therefore, the 1 Reader Media Device is not configured to generate indoor position data and send ETAs to the 3 Local Control Device.
The 120 Event Management component in the 1 Reader Device executes the Welcome-Arrival protocol based upon the Bookstore facilities information provided in the Registration message. It transmits an Arrival Message using this media with the Reader's Name, UserID, Event Registration Confirmation Number, Reader Device Hardware ID, Social Media ID of the Signing Event (e.g., Twitter Name, Hashtag), and 1 Reader Device GPS Position to the 3 Local Control Device. Security parameters including the Registration Confirmation Number are encrypted using the reader private encryption key. Then the Arrival Message is encrypted using the 3 Local Control Device public key.
The 1 Reader Device knows the venue 8 WiFi Username-Password either because it has been received in the Registration Confirmation Message or has been stored from previous visits to the venue. In either case, the 1 Reader Device is able to gain access the semi-public 8 WiFi.
The 330 Line Control component in the 3 Local Control Device receives and processes this message. It decrypts the Arrival Message using its private key and decrypts the security parameters using the public key of the reader. It verifies the reader by matching the confirmation number. It updates the 311 virtual queue indicating that reader has arrived and responds with a Welcome Message. This message establishes the unique 1 Reader Device that will be used to generate the PMA.
The 330 Line Control component in 3 Local Control Device also computes and transmits the Line Control Number (LCN) in the Welcome Message to the 1 Reader Device. The LCN establishes the reader's place in queue for signing, e.g., if a reader is assigned an LCN value equal to 3, it will be the third reader to collaborate with the author in the generation of a PMA. The LCN is computed using an algorithm that is configurable based on user set parameters. The parameters may include the arrival time of the reader at the event, priorities derived from the Reservation Confirmation Number, value of the reader's purchase for the event, value of the purchases at the store during the previous year (or some other configurable time). Purchases may include books of any media or any other purchases at the store. The 3 Local Control Device transmits the Welcome Message to the 1 Reader Media Device with security parameters encrypted with the 3 LCD private encryption key and the text of the message encrypted with the 1 Reader Media Device Public Encryption key.
The 3 Local Control Device also alerts bookstore personnel to provide any Special Services to the reader, e.g., provide a purchased hardcopy book, usher to reserved seating, or provide food and beverage service.
The Welcome-Arrival protocol described above is a message based protocol between software components of the invention in the 1 Reader Device and the 3 Local Control Device. It relies on a GPS sensor in the 1 Reader Device, but it does not rely on WiFi sensing of the media access control (MAC) layer address or any other RF sensing. Thus from a networking and communications perspective, it is hardware independent.
After arriving at the bookstore, the reader goes to the “pick up central” location in the bookstore to obtain items purchased via through the special services capability. To obtain these items, the reader uses the 1 Reader Device to display the Event Signing Registration Confirmation Message for bookstore personnel. As described above, the information in this message include the reader's name, email, confirmation number, and the items purchased. The message may also include a mechanism e.g., bar or QR code, for electronic processing so that the bookstore may use electronic means rather than manual reading to validate the order.
Venue personnel then provides the items, e.g., books, beverages, and food. For some more exclusive events, they may also provide tickets and usher readers to their seats.
Readers may configure their app to opt out of using the Arrival-Welcome protocol. In this case, upon arriving at the bookstore, the reader displays the Registration Confirmation message to a bookstore rep and the reader is manually entered into the queue for a PMA and provided and special services that have been purchased.
When displayed on the reader's smartphone, it also serves to verify the reader is the next person to collaborate with the author to generate a PMA—since there is one and only one person in the Collaboration Window. Thus in our invention, the NEXT message serves two purposes: advisory to alert the reader to begin collaboration and verification to ensure the author is collaborating with the scheduled reader.
The transmission time of the NEXT message establishes the beginning of a Collaboration Window during which the aforementioned unique 1 Reader Device is the only one permitted to generate a PMA with this author. The Collaboration Window ends when the 3 Local Control Device receives a status message receive indicating the PMA generation has been completed.
Other readers receive Status messages indicating their relative position in the signing queue allowing them to browse in the bookstore or enjoy the available food and beverage service. When the reader's position nears the top of the queue, he/she receives a “heads up” status message indicating collaboration with the author is imminent. When the reader's position is at the top of the queue and the author is ready to collaborate, the reader receives the NEXT message. At this time, the reader moves to the signing area to meet the author.
When the reader and author meet in the signing area, the reader uses 1 Reader Device to show the aforementioned NEXT message display to the author validating the reader for the next signing. Then the reader and the author begin collaboration. They use the 1 Reader Device to capture the media data object to be used for the PMA, in one embodiment a JPEG photograph, another an MPEG video clip. The 125 Signing Control component captures the media data object with its interface to 175 camera control. This may include attachments such as a “selfie stick” enabling the reader to easily capture a photo or video of the reader and the author. In an alternative embodiment [See Section 7 on Alternative Control Embodiments], a third person may hold the camera and capture the media object more easily depicting the reader and author.
Once the media object is captured, the reader may use the 125 Signing Control component to invoke various utilities to resize or optimize the coloring of the object. In some cases, the reader may want to take several photos or videos and pick a preferred one for use in the PMA.
After the preferred media data object has been selected, the reader and author collaborate on the personalization. The author enters the personalization inscription typically using a stylus that is captured by 125 Signing Control via 170 Screen Control and integrated with the media data object to form the PMA. It is then displayed to the reader for approval.
For a photo media data object, the author may autograph the photo with the agreed upon inscription. For a video media data object, the reader and author may collaborate to create an introductory frame that would precede the video clip when played. Its contents may comprise: title, time, date, location, names, author signature, and inscription with suitable background coloring and effects.
If the reader approves, the 125 Signing Control stores the PMA in the Multimedia Notes and Highlights file (by reference) for this ebook. It also transmits the PMA and the updated Multimedia Notes and Highlights files over the 6 Network and 8 WiFi using standard network protocols via the 185 Network Interface to the 4 OLV.
The 125 Signing Control component updates the status of PMA by transmitting a message to the 3 Local Control Device and 4 Master Control Device. The 330 Line Control component in the 3 Local Control Device invites the next reader to meet the author in the signing area by transmitting a Next message and updates the status for all other readers waiting for PMAs or hard cover autographs via Status message.
In cases where the reader does not approve of the PMA, the generation of the PMA is repeated. Several iterations are allowed where the maximum number is a configurable parameter.
In this example the 17 PMA overlaps some parts of textual information on the title page. When the reader touches the large 18 X, the 130 Reader component hides the 11 PMA and displays the title information and 16 orange triangle icon via 170 Screen Control. Note again, the 17 PMA is stored in the ebook Multimedia Notes and Highlights file and ebook copyrighted material is unchanged.
A key feature of the invention is “shop while wait,” i.e., readers can roam the venue while in the Service 2 virtual queue and make purchases to the delight of the venue operator. Specifically, the line control that allows the reader to browse the venue book selection or other items for sales such as books, posters, pens, souvenirs, lamps, or other venue items; partake in food and drink; or converse with other readers while waiting for a Service 2 collaboration with an author. Line control will notify the reader with a heads up when they are about to serviced and a NEXT message when they are ready to be serviced. This is in stark contrast to traditional book signings where readers often wait in lines and often leave the event shortly after the signing. Thus readers have less time for shopping at the venue at tradition signings.
The 196 e-Commerce component converts the scanned tag into a digital representation. Using 170 Screen Control, the reader enters delivery parameters including format (electronic, physical), quantity, and address (email, physical address, pickup). Then the 1. Reader Media device generates and securely transmits Purchase Request Message with identifying item code and reader LCN to the 3. Local Control Device using the 8 Venue WiFi.
The 344 e-Commerce component in the 3 LCD receives and processes the message. It accesses the 312 Venue Inventory Database to determine the availability and item price and compute a discount on the item if any based on the item cost and other configured parameters including format delivery, quantity, taxes, shipping, and handling. Next it generates and securely transmits a Purchase Request Response message with a discount coupon and item price using the 8 Venue WiFi. The discount count has a configurable expiration time with a minimum the expiration time of the current Service 2 event.
After receiving the message, using 170 Screen Control the reader displays the message on the 1 Reader Media Device, and the reader decides whether to purchase the item. The purchase and delivery may be electronic or physical.
The 3 Local Control Device can also be configured to send push coupons to the Reader Media Device while readers are in a Service 2 virtual queue using an algorithm able to reward readers who have larger LCNs with a greater discount. The push coupon is similar to coupon described above but is transmitted in a message sent by the 3 control Device to the 1 Reader Media Device without a reader request.
In this configuration, the coupon may be applied to selected items or be venue wide, but not to specific items selected by the reader. As configured, it may apply to electronic or physical purchases with a configurable expiration time and delivery format. The reader uses the 1 Reader Media Device to execute the transaction as described above.
Even without providing discount coupons, the Line Control feature of the invention enables readers to shop while waiting in the Service 2 virtual queue, browse the venue items or partake in the café offerings. This is not possible in traditional signings.
7.5 Advanced Event Operation—Co-Authors
The invention may be configured to support events conducted by co-authors where 1.) each author participates in the Service 1 information presentation and 2.) each author in Service 2 collaborates with each reader in the creation of a PMA following Service 1.
When configured to support co-authors, the 330 Line Control component in 3 Local Control Device computes and transmits the Line Control Number (LCN) in the Welcome Message to the 1 Reader Device. For the co-author configuration, there are 311 virtual queues for each co-author. Therefore, the 320 Event Management in the 3 Local Control Device assigns readers as they arrive into one of the queues so that that they are evenly balanced. The 3 Local Control Device transmits the Welcome Message to the 1 Reader Media Device with security parameters encrypted with the 1 LCN, the associated author name, private encryption key with the text of the message encrypted with the 1 Reader Media Device Public Encryption key.
To initiate Service 2 the venue representative executes a command on the 3 Local Control Device. The 330 Line Control component in the 3 Local Control Device sends messages to readers who have registered to obtain PMAs and physical autographs. The readers who are scheduled first with each author receive a NEXT message advising the reader to meet their respective author in the 12 Signing Area; it also generates a NEXT message display, shown in
When displayed on the reader's smartphone, it also serves to verify the reader is the next person to collaborate with the author to generate a PMA—since there is one and only one person in the Collaboration Window with one of the authors. Thus, in our invention, the NEXT message serves two purposes: advisory to alert the reader to begin collaboration and verification to ensure the author is collaborating with the scheduled reader.
The transmission time of the NEXT message establishes the beginning of a Collaboration Window during which the aforementioned unique 1 Reader Device is the only one permitted to generate a PMA with this author. The Collaboration Window ends when the 3 Local Control Device receives a status message receive indicating the PMA generation has been completed.
Other readers receive Status messages indicating their relative position in the signing of the relevant queue allowing them to browse in the bookstore or enjoy the available food and beverage service. When the reader's position nears the top of the queue, he/she receives a “heads up” status message indicating collaboration with the author is imminent. When the reader's position is at the top of the queue and the author is ready to collaborate, the reader receives the NEXT message. At this time, the reader moves to the signing area to meet the author.
When a reader completes collaboration with one author, the reader 320 Event Management in the 3 Local Control Device enters the reader into virtual of the other author and the reader waits for collaboration with that author. If the reader has collaborated with both authors, the reader has completed Service 2.
7.6 Advanced Event Operation—Off-Site Completion of PMA
The invention may be configured to set the autograph page parameters during a configurable time period after the reader-author collaboration has been completed. For example, the time period may be set between 12 to 48 hours. Since this feature of the invention reduces the collaboration time, it allows the author to collaborate with more readers. Also, it enables the reader to complete the PMA off-site in a convenient, relaxed setting.
In the case where the period for selecting the autograph page parameters has been extended beyond the collaboration window, the collaboration window ends when the reader approves the PMA media content (photo and caption). The 125 Signing Control component updates the status of PMA by transmitting a message to the 3 Local Control Device and 4 Master Control Device. The 330 Line Control component in the 3 Local Control Device invites the next reader to meet the author in the signing area by transmitting a Next message and updates the status for all other readers waiting for PMAs or hard cover autographs via Status message.
The reader with extended time for setting the autograph page parameters exits the 12 Signing Area. When the reader arrives at a convenient location, the reader completes the PMA as shown in
To complete the creation of the PMA, the reader by opens the PMA app on the 1 Reader Media Device selects the insert PMA menu option on the 125 Signing Control component. These options enable the reader to select the location for insertion and the identifying icon. The 125 Signing Control component via 170 Screen Control provides the reader options to either provide textual input page number, x-y co-ordinates (start: upper left, end: lower left) or to open the ebook using the 130 Reader component and point to the desired insertion location. The 125 Signing Control stores the requested insertion location (and size) where the PMA is inserted after the reader and author collaborate to generate the PMA.
The 125 Signing Control component via 170 Screen Control provides the reader options to select the available icons by menu display or to import a graphic image that may be used as the icon. After the reader makes a selection, the 125 Signing Control component stores the requested selection.
The 125 Signing Control stores the PMA in the Multimedia Notes and Highlights file (by reference) for this ebook. It also transmits the PMA and the updated Multimedia Notes and Highlights files over the 6 Network and 8 WiFi using standard network protocols via the 185 Network Interface to the 4 OLV.
7.7 Advanced Pre-Event Operation Book Expo
The invention operates in its most general configuration when it allows the reader to register for an arbitrary mix of Service 1 and Service 2 events at a selected venue. As discussed above for small venues, Pre-Event Operation begins when the reader opens the app on his/her 1 Reader Device causing the 165 User Account Management component to securely sign in the reader automatically using the reader UserID and password and begin execution of the 120 Event Management component displaying the signing menu options. The reader then enters menu data with parameters comprising geographic area of signing locations, range of dates, and book genre(s) of interest. After the reader enters such menu data, the 120 Event Management component in the 1 Reader Device receives the input via 170 Screen Control. The 120 Event Management component processes the inputs and transmits a request message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard network protocols to the 2 Master Control Device to query the 211 Event Database. The 250 Display component in the 2 Master Control Device receives the request and queries the 211 Events Database to retrieve the relevant data and generates and formats a response message. It transmits the response through the 6 Network via the 260 Network Interface using standard protocols to the 1 Reader Device for display to the reader with options to register for the events, purchase the books in either ebook or hardcover format, and/or obtain special services.
In its most general form, the transmitted response may include in a Book Expo event consisting of may Service 1 and Service 2 events being conducted in parallel at the same venue on the same day.
Upon identifying one or more Service 1 and/or Service 2 events of interest, the reader transmits requests to register for these event(s) in order to obtain a PMA with or without special services. When registering for these events, the reader specifies the number of persons attending, e.g., single person, couple. One PMA is generated for each selected Service 2 event.
The reader may or may not purchase a book for the event because the reader may already own an ebook license.
If the reader has selected the option to purchase either an ebook license or hardcover book associated with the signing event and to register for a signing event, an ecommerce transaction is performed with 4 OLV via the 2 Master Control Device. In this case the 160 Sales Management component in the 1 Reader Device extracts the relevant user information from the 165 User Account component and displays the information to the reader via the 170 Screen Control component allowing the reader to edit the data. The reader enters his/her 4 OLV user account and credit information to enable the transaction, e.g. userID, social mediaID (optional), password, credit card information, or payment data. The UserID and password for the 4 OLV and 2 Master Control Device may often be configured to be the same for ease of use, but in some embodiments they may be different.
The 160 Sales Management component then executes the ecommerce transaction to purchase the book and register for the signing event by transmitting a message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard ecommerce protocols to the 230 Event Registration component in the 2 Master Control Device. The 230 Event Registration first performs the ecommerce transaction by extracting the purchase parameters from the message and transmitting a purchase message over the 6 Network to the 4 OLV.
The 430 User Sales component in the 4 OLV executes the transaction by authenticating the reader UserID-password, approving payment, and checking the order for any errors. Inventory would be checked for hardcover orders. It then replies to the 2 Master Control Device with its approval for the purchase and for the ebook provides a URL enabling the reader to retrieve the ebook via the 6 Network. The 2 Master Control Device forwards the response to the 1 Reader Device over the 6 Network. The 235 Transaction Logging component in the 2 Master Control Device logs the transaction.
Then the 230 Event Registration component proceeds with the signing event registration. It generates an event registration message and transmits it through the 6 Network to the 330 Line Control component in the 3 Local Control Device. This message includes the reader name, userID, security parameters (public encryption key of 1 Reader Device), and event parameters (author name, book title, date, time).
Before confirming the registration, the 3 Local Control Device verifies that there is available seating capacity to accommodate the reader for each requested event. For a Service 1 event, capacity is measured in seating capacity while for Service 2 events capacity is measured in number of collaborations. If not, that request for that specific service is rejected.
The 3 Local Control Device Generates a registration confirmation number that may be configured with semantic meaning. Such meaning may include a reader priority to be used in providing special services or in the calculation of the Line Control Number.
The 3 Local Control Device stores the registration in the 311 Virtual Queue file and confirms the registration by transmitting a registration confirmation message to the 230 Event Registration component in the 2 Master Control Device. This message provides the reader with a registration confirmation number, social media identifiers (e.g., Twitter name, hashtag) for the event, and other event or facility information (Name, Address, GPS co-ordinates of the bookstore, security parameters (public key) of 3 Local Control Device).
The 2 Master Control Device stores the registration in 212 Reader Schedule database. The 230 Event Registration component then transmits a Registration Confirmation message via electronic means to the 120 Event Management component in the 1 Reader Device. For each of the selected and confirmed Service 1 and Service 2 events, the Registration Confirmation message includes ebook title, author, date, time, social media identifiers (e.g., Twitter name, hashtag), reader name, reader UserID, link to download the ebook (if purchased), confirmation of special services (if ordered), venue name, address, GPS co-ordinates, security parameters (public key of 3 Local Control Device, venue WiFi access parameters), number of attendees, and registration confirmation number. The venue WiFi access parameters may be encrypted with Reader Public Key. It may also include a validation mechanism such as a QR code.
Upon reader request, the 1 Reader Media Device displays the contents of Registration Confirmation Message as shown in
The 120 Event Management component adds the event to the reader's personal 145 Calendar for generation of reminder notices to the reader. The app also sets a timer to wake up the 120 Event Management component on the day of the event to check for arrival at the local bookstore and begin execution of the Arrival-Welcome protocol. This timer is set a configurable number of minutes before the scheduled time of the event.
For ebook purchases, the reader downloads the ebook directly from the 4 OLV to the 1 Reader Device as one would normally do for a traditional ebook purchase. Hardcover books are shipped through normal delivery means or picked up at the bookstore when getting the PMA.
If the reader only selects a signing event of interest to attend and obtain a PMA (no ebook purchase), the reader selects the Register option on the 1 Reader Device display. This requires validation of the reader's ebook license.
For Signing Event Registration, the 120 Event Management component processes and forms an Event Registration message from Account Information and Event Announcement and transmits the message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard protocols to the 230 Event Registration in the 2 Master Control Device. Upon receipt at the 2 Master Control Device, the 230 Event Registration component checks whether the ebook license must be validated. Since the reader has not selected the purchase option in this case, the 230 Event Registration component continues with ebook license validation by transmitting a license validation request message through the 6 Network via the 185 Network Interface using standard protocols to the 4 OLV. The 430 User Sales component in the 4 OLV validates that the reader holds a valid license of the ebook and responds with a message to the 230 Event Registration component indicating that the reader holds a valid license.
After the ebook license has been validated, the 230 Event Registration continues with Event registration as described above. The reader may repeat these actions for additional signing events.
After having registered for each Service 2 event, the reader may select the location for insertion and identifying icon for the PMA during either in the Pre-Event phase or the Event phase. There is Pre-Event and Post-Event phase operation operates as describes. Additional detail on the Book Expo Event Phase is presented below.
Also, after having registered for a Service 1 or Service 2 event, a reader may engage in a social media conversation on that event. The invention operates as described above.
7.8 Advanced Event Operation—Book Expo
The advanced event operation supports multiple Service 1 events and Service 2 events conducted in parallel in a large venue. In this configuration of the invention, Service 1 and Service 2 events are each scheduled at specific times contrary to traditional book signings where a Service 2 event follows a Service 1 event. This configuration corresponds to a book expo or festival event that typically conducts Service 1 and Service 2 events over the course of a day.
On the day of the event, a timer is set to open the 120 Event Management component a configurable number of minutes before the first event. The 120 Event Management component accesses 190 GPS Interface of the 1 Reader device to determine its current location and compare it with the location of the co-ordinates of the 7 Local Venue conducting the event. When the difference is within a configurable tolerance, the 120 Event Management component concludes that the reader has arrived at the event venue and begins execution of the Arrival-Welcome protocol.
As described above for small venues the reader can quickly identify the 12 Event Area upon reaching the 7 Local Venue. This is not the case for large venues. Also, for large venues, reader may attend several events that may be held in different locations within the 7 Venue so the operation of the invention is different. Therefore, the 1 Reader Media Device is configured to transmit estimated time of arrivals (ETAs) to the 3 Local Control Device. The 3 Local Control Device sets the rate of update in the Welcome1 message.
The 120 Event Management component in the 1 Reader Device executes the Welcome-Arrival protocol based upon the Bookstore facilities information provided in the Registration message. The 1 Reader Device knows the venue 8 WiFi Username-Password either because it has been received in the Registration Confirmation Message or has been stored from previous visits to the venue. In either case, the 1 Reader Device is able to gain access the semi-public 8 WiFi.
It transmits an Arrival Message using the venue 8 WiFi with the Reader's Name, UserID, Event Registration Confirmation Number, Reader Device Hardware ID, Social Media ID of the Event (e.g., Twitter Name, Hashtag), and 1 Reader Device GPS Position to the 3 Local Control Device. Security parameters including the Registration Confirmation Number are encrypted using the reader private encryption key. Then the Arrival Message is encrypted using the 3 Local Control Device public key.
The 330 Line Control component in the 3 Local Control Device receives and processes this message. It decrypts the Arrival Message using its private key and decrypts the security parameters using the public key of the reader. It verifies the reader by matching the confirmation number. It updates the 311 Virtual Queue indicating that reader has arrived and responds with a Welcome Message. This message establishes the unique 1 Reader Device that will be used to generate the PMA.
The 3 Local Control Device generates a Welcome1 message turning on ETA reporting using indoor position data and the rate at which such data is reported. In order to compute the ETA, the 3 Local Control Device has stored a network representation of the venue layout, depicted in
Upon receipt of the Welcome1 message, the 1 Reader Media Device decrypts the message using its Private Encryption Key and decrypts the message parameters using the 3 Local Control Device Public Key. It determines that the invention has been configured to operate in a large venue mode and must transmit ETAs. The 120 Event Management component sets the rate for transmission of such data.
At a configurable time prior to the start of the event, the 115 Navigation Updater component in the 1 Reader Media Device begins computing its Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) for each registered event using the pre-stored network map of the venue as illustrated in
For each 1 Reader Media Device, the 3 Local Control Device maintains the next registered Service 1 or Service 2 event associated with that device. The 3 Local Control Device receives and stores the ETAs messages from the 1 Reader Media Device while the reader is present in the 7 Local Venue. The ETA is a parameter in the 311 Virtual Queue.
When the invention is configured for large venues, Service 2 is performed at a scheduled time rather than following an associated Service 1 event. Therefore, the order in which the reader attends the selected events is determined by the venue schedule, not by the bookstore tradition of a Service 1 followed by a Service 2.
When the 3 Local Control Device determines that 1 Reader Media Device has arrived at the 12 Event Area for the Service 2 event, the 3 Local Control Device begins the computation of the Line Control Number and generation of Welcome2 Message for the 1 Reader Media Device.
The LCN is computed using an algorithm that is configurable based on venue set parameters. The parameters may include the arrival time of the reader at the event, priorities derived from the Reservation Confirmation Number, value of the reader's purchase for the event, value of the purchases at the store during a configurable time period, e.g., at the event, during the previous year. Purchases may include books of any media or any other purchases at the store.
The arrival time may be used as well as the new parameter, the estimated arrival time computed using indoor position data. This allows a more flexible weighting of the arrival distribution. Some readers may be coming from an event nearby on the same level while others may be coming from an event on another level. The configurable algorithm has visibility into both and can schedule readers accordingly.
For example, the algorithm has knowledge that both readers are coming to the event and can schedule both. It may detect that the reader with the longer path may not arrive in time for the start of the collaboration. This is clear from the conceptual network map shown,
Also, the algorithm may be configured to schedule readers according to their next event. For example in the conceptual venue with Service 2 collaboration on Level 2 depicted in
The 330 Line Control component in 3 Local Control Device computes and transmits the Line Control Number (LCN) in the Welcome2 Message to the 1 Reader Device. The LCN establishes the reader's place in queue for signing as it does for the traditional book signing, but for this case where readers may be coming from other events or going to other events, the invention includes more configurable algorithmic parameters.
After the 3 Local Control Device computes the LCN, it generates a Welcome2 message, transmits the Welcome2 Message to the 1 Reader Media Device with security parameters encrypted with the 3 LCD private encryption key and the text of the message encrypted with the 1 Reader Media Device Public Encryption key. The 3 Local Control Device also alerts venue personnel to provide any Special Services to the reader, e.g., provide a purchased hardcopy book, usher to reserved seating, or provide food and beverage service.
For Service 1 events in large venues for book expos, 3 Local Control Device generates and transmits a Welcome2 message when it has learned the 3 Reader Media Device has arrived at the 12 Event Area. Since Service 1 is an information presentation service and involves no collaboration, the Welcome2 message does not include an LCN.
The Shop While Wait feature applies for large venues as it does for small venues as described above. However, it is important that venue operators deploy sales and cafes areas close to Service 2 12 Event Areas such that when readers get the NEXT message they can quickly respond and collaborate with the author. If these areas are not nearby, the readers will lose valuable collaboration time.
The invention may be implemented using different embodiments of the 1 Reader Device depending upon invention phase and reader preferences. For example, rather than a smartphone, the reader may use a desktop computer or a laptop computer as a 1 Reader Device to access the 211 Event Database in order to identify events of interest. Such an event may be a Service 1, present event or a Service 2 event, or In this case, the 1 Reader Device (a PC) would include a Web 180 browser to access the database.
The reader could still use a smartphone to capture the PMA during the Event Phase. Alternatively, the reader could choose to use a tablet or laptop computer during the Event Phase depending upon personal preferences.
The invention may be implemented using different embodiments of the 3 Local Control Device depending upon invention phase and venue preferences. For example, rather than a tablet, the venue personnel may use a desktop computer or a laptop computer as a 3 Local Control Device to access the signing schedule in the 2 Master Control Device, interact with the 1 Reader Device, execute the 330 Line Control component that implements the Welcome-Arrival protocol, and execute any control commands.
In another scenario where there is a very large event with many users an alternate implementation of the 3 Local Control Device could be implemented as a client server model. The server is run on a high end server as shown in
In some situations, it may be more convenient for a third person (other than the reader or the author) to hold and control the device capturing the media data object. Such person may be the bookstore representative who may capture the media data object using the 3 Local Control Device.
Therefore, in this embodiment the 350 Camera Control component and 325 Signing Control component are resident in the 3 Local Control Device in order to generate and personalize the PMA.
The advantage of this embodiment is the physical ease of capturing the PMA. It provides the equivalent service of the recommended embodiment.
In this embodiment, the 3 Local Control Device is removed from the System Architecture. Then the Bookstore representative uses a web browser on a smartphone to a.) access the signing schedule in the 2 Master Control Device b) execute any control commands. This provides an equivalent service to the recommended embodiment.
The advantage of this embodiment is that it minimizes the data processing and storage infrastructure on the local bookstore. However, it is dependent on having network connectivity to the 2 Master Control Device.
When the signing window begins, the reader and author would discuss the personalization details using electronic means. The media data object could be an image or a video of the author.
As shown in the figure, the author is co-located with 3 Local Control Device that utilizes the 320 Event Management component to schedule the signings of individual readers. It also uses the 350 Camera Control component and 325 Signing Control component to generate the PMA.
Hybrid embodiments are possible. For example, the remote embodiment and the cloud embodiment could be combined with the author using only a smartphone. This is a very attractive alternative because it minimizes the software infrastructure for the author.
This embodiment is a workaround and does not provide the full functionality of the recommended embodiment because it does not capture a media data showing both the reader and the author.
Almost all bookstores have WiFi networks, but some may not be so equipped. In this case network communications will be provided by texting for all messages and cellular for transmission of all media data objects.
This embodiment provides an equivalent service, but charges may be incurred and performance may be degraded.
While this description of the invention (as described in Sections 4 and 5) applies to specific photo and video data objects captured using a camera for ebooks, it can be extended to apply to other media applications including but not limited to the electronic album art of audio books, audio (MP3) and video (DVD) products.
This invention closes the business loop between retailers, publishers, and authors to provide a practical solution for the personalization of ebooks for both small venue where a single author conducts a presentation (referred to as an information presentation Service 1) and book signing (referred to as an a collaboration Service 2) as well as the more general case for large venues where many authors conduct Service 1 information presentation event and Service 2 collaboration signing events in parallel. It addresses the special cases where the event is authored by two individuals.
It provides an end-to-end control, and data management (CD&M) solution for the identification of event signings; capability for the readers and author to discuss the event on social media after readers have registered for the event allowing the author the tailor his/her comments at the event to the readers' interest; push invitations to identify events; feature to initiate a location independent social media conversation between the author and readers enabling them to discuss the book during the author's book tour; multimedia personalization of ebooks; line control so readers can browse the venue or mingle while waiting for collaboration with the author; synchronization and archival of the PMA among all of the reader's devices; special services such as reserved seating as well as food and beverage.
The line control feature of the invention utilizes an algorithm to provide venue operators the capability to efficiently manage the use of their facility. It provides them configurable parameters that include the arrival time of the reader at the event, expected arrival time of other readers to the event, the proximity of the readers' next event, next event type (Service 1 or 2), value of the readers' book purchase for the event, value of the readers' book purchases during a configurable time period, value of readers' other purchases during a configurable time, value of readers' other purchases. The social media feature is a very powerful capability because it enables readers to submit questions and comments to the author prior to the event. The Registration Confirmation Message is the catalyst to initiate the social media conversation between the author and the readers. In some cases, the author may be well known to the readers. However, in many cases, the event may be introducing readers to new authors.
This invention may be implemented using any one of several embodiments depending upon the business retailer's business environment. In the basic case described in this patent application, processing and storage of scheduling data may be resident at the local bookstore. However, it is envisioned with cloud computing technology processing and storage may evolve to the cloud for many retailers. Very often a smartphone will be used as a reader device, but a laptop or tablet device may also be used for collaboration with the author during PMA generation. If it is not convenient for the reader and author to physically meet, there is a remote embodiment of the invention.
While the simplest case of this invention is the embedding of a photo into an ebook, it also covers the embedding of other media such as audio or video into an ebook. Analogously, the invention also includes the embedding of such media into cover art of audio books, DVDs and MP3 albums.
While signing events have been traditionally viewed as free and open events, the special services feature of this invention provides the framework to make signing events the exclusive, paid events of the future. For example, paid book signing events may charge premium prices, but include deluxe services such as cocktails and dinner with the author in addition to the PMA.
In summary, this invention combines a novel set of ideas not previously available to retailers, publishers, and authors providing them new and promising business opportunities.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-provisional application Ser. No. 16/511,037 filed on Jul. 15, 2019 which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-provisional application Ser. No. 15/425,264 filed Feb. 6, 2017 which claims priority to U.S. Provisional patent application No. 62/294,341, filed Feb. 10, 2016, entitled Personalized Multimedia Autographing System, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| 20200327461 A1 | Oct 2020 | US |
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16511037 | Jul 2019 | US |
| Child | 16876060 | US | |
| Parent | 15425264 | Feb 2017 | US |
| Child | 16511037 | US |
