JP2003508978A - Promotional handheld communication device - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract: Benefit from receiving and processing a composite video signal from a display device by a handheld device (12) such as a smart card, personal digital assistance ("PDAs"), or mobile telephone. Get system. The video signal is modulated with auxiliary data to generate a composite video signal. The user directs the handheld device (12) toward the display device by placing the tip (18) in the video signal path. The composite video signal is then transmitted and received to a handheld device (12), and auxiliary data is also received. The auxiliary data is used by the handheld device (12). The aiming light and / or audio transducer informs the user of the handheld device (12) that auxiliary data has been received. The auxiliary data is then utilized in the handheld device (12).

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application is filed on September 1, 1999 by Edward J. US provisional patent application filed by Koplar, Patent Application No. US 60 / 151,840, entitled "Interactive Cards and Other Handheld Devices for Receiving Baled Optical Data and Other Signals," 2000. January 21, Edward J. Koplar
And Daniel A .; US patent application filed by Ciardullo, patent application no. US09 / 489,373, entitled "Interactive Cards and Other Handheld Devices with Enhanced Connectivity," Edwar, Apr. 7, 2000.
d J. Koplar and Daniel A .; US provisional patent application filed by Ciardullo, Patent Application No. US 60 / 195,542, titled "Interactive Handheld Promotional Communication Device," and Daniel A. et al. Ciardullo and Jim G. US provisional patent application filed by Withers, Patent Application No. US 60 / 207,460,
Title of Invention "Methods and Hardware for Multipurpose Smart Card Redemption"
, All of which are hereby incorporated by reference and their continued maintenance is required.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to interactive handheld devices, and more particularly to a method and apparatus for receiving and decoding modulated signals used by the handheld device and benefiting from receiving the signals. Regarding

The handheld device of the present invention can be used for entertainment, sales promotion, information transfer, data collection, business verification, safety, education or point-of-sale treatment or verification, and other commercial or personal purposes. A modulated video signal is received for a purpose that includes a physical, entertainment, or entertainment purpose. The data can be sent to the handheld device by optical or electrical means. Data can be received by a handheld device utilizing a sleeve, cradle, or docking station, through an optical lens, by using the PCMCIA or alternative computer port, or by FM, AM or other radio frequency means. Utilization of the device allows a user to receive, process, and / or store access to hotel rooms and facilities, and other information and promotional opportunities, including interactions in movie theaters.

Brookton et al., US Pat. No. 4,807,031 (“Brou
ghton ") The title of the invention," Interactive Video Method and Apparatus ", relates generally to in-band video broadcasting of instructions and other encoded information to interactive devices. The invention described herein relates generally to interactive education and entertainment systems, and to one embodiment in the context of television program control of toys that are located where a television receiver is located, such as within a home. ing.

In order to encode the control data, which can provide benefits to the user, the Brightto
n discloses a novel method of luminance or chrominance modulation of a video signal that produces a composite video signal, whereby modulating the video signal produces control data. The novel modulation method alternately raises and lowers the luminance / color difference of adjacent horizontal scan lines to create a video subcarrier containing control data.

Under Broughton, the video signal is not replaced with other data, and the data is not added as a separate signal with the video signal, but rather the video signal itself to subsequently produce control data. Is modulated. Therefore, the control data is
Part of or included in the video signal. The encoding method also includes preview and removal circuitry to ensure the suitability or presence of the data encoding and the removal of the data encoding, respectively.

The control data is transmitted by television broadcasting means or by a pre-recorded video player connected to the video display. The control data is then received by the video display in which the video field of the video display is modulated with control (ie auxiliary) data. The control data is then detected by either optoelectronic or RF (radio frequency) detection means which discriminate program material from the control data. The detected control data is further reproduced so that the control data can be used with the interactive device.

A real-world example of a device such as the one described above is "Wheel of Fortu", which is intended to be used while watching a program of the well-known television show TV Show.
ne "ITV is a commercially sold, hand-held game that receives and detects control data, such as Play-Along Game of NeTV.
Produced under a license from On's assignee, this device was a palm-sized device and contained an optical sensor that received a video signal inside the device case. The device then discriminates the control data from the video program material, causes the liquid crystal display (“LCD”) on the toy's surface panel to display a portion of the word puzzle, allowing the device holder to play the game with a competitor, or Taken on the videotape of the game and played in response to the show. "Wheel of Fortune" interactive television (IT) with its handheld control device including keyboard
V) The game was commercially available in 1988.

An improvement on the modulation method described in Brownton is described in US Pat. No. 6,094,
No. 228. Ciardullo et al. (“Ceardull
In "o"), an improved modulation method is disclosed. By changing the brightness of the opposite pair of lines, data is inserted in the visual part of the video signal, thus modulating a larger amount of data into the signal. . Broughton and Ceardul
lo are both incorporated herein by reference.

Others have endeavored to provide a handheld device capable of receiving modulated data transmission from a video display, US Pat. Nos. 5,549,493, 5,764.
Nos. 1,601, 5,767,896, 5,907,350 and 5,953,047. Of these, US Pat. No. 5,907,350 receives and decodes encoded data having the above redeemable coupons embedded within a television segment and transmitted with a regular television segment. , And a method of storing data on so-called smart cards that are claimed to be stored. US Pat. No. 5,90
The device of 7,350 is a hand-held unit that receives a luminance signal from a television display according to the Brownton principle. The received video signal is decoded and stored inside the card for future use. The LCD readout is a universal price code (“UPC”) that corresponds to the stored data.
) Is possible. The scanner reads the UPC code in the redemption state and the stored redemption is then erased from the card's memory. The microprocessor guides the decoding and storage aspects, and the keypad allows use and input.

The term “smart card” as used in the above patent includes a handheld portable device and is not conceptually different from the “Wheel of Fortune” ITV gaming device described above. However, this term does not apply to those patents.

[0012] Collectively, "smart card" has gradually come to mean a card that resembles a credit card, but includes a microchip or microprocessor embedded or embedded within the card. Smart card
It is said to be a "finger-holding" computer, which typically includes data storage media ranging from less than a kilobyte to megabytes (or more), Ogniben, France.
e, P. J. , Said to have started in the "smart card" technology department (July 1999). Smart cards are also "chip cards" according to the references column
Can be called.

The handheld devices of the present invention may be in the form of smart cards, but they may alternatively be in the form of mobile phones. Recently, mobile phones have become equipped with enhanced capabilities to store and process information, and many such phones offer limited networks or Internet access, often referred to as wireless Internet access. There is. By industry, over 100 million mobile phones will have some form of Internet access by 2002, and by 2003 over 1 billion mobile phones will be in use worldwide. Evaluates. Such mobile phones, when properly modified and connected to receive ancillary data, with or without internet access, are powerful marketing tools.

Personal Digital Assistances (“PDAs”) are another handheld device that can provide users with promotional opportunities. The most common brand is 1
It is Palm Pilot, which introduced its first PDA in 996. 1999
The latest Palm Pilot, Palm VII, introduced in the year was the first PDA to include wireless Internet access.

While PDAs and mobile phones have internet access, until the time of the present invention they had limited functionality as a result of slow data transfer and limited display. Thus, a smart card that is compact in size, yet rich in content that keeps users motivated to participate in various promotional opportunities without the extended delay in receiving or processing information. It is desirable to provide users with devices such as interactive opportunities and similar devices. It will be appreciated that under the present invention, smart cards, mobile phones and PDAs can all offer the promotional opportunities described in this application.

A handheld device that receives optically encoded data from a display device can detect the PPC without the need to scan the UPC code displayed on the LCD, for example.
It can be effectively used in OS. The handheld device and method need not require additional hardware or software at the POS and should be able to provide a high degree of security. Besides, at check-out,
It must not be significantly degraded and many promotional opportunities or coupons must be redeemable.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term “card” may be of a portable nature, preferably carried by the user in the palm of the hand, or otherwise facilitated by the user, including credit card-like devices. Means an interactive device intended to be grabbed or handled by the hand. To the extent they are used in the present description only in connection with the invention disclosed and / or claimed herein, the terms "interactive device", "card", "interactive card", ""Smartcard" and "optical card" are used interchangeably.

The term “sponsor” is used herein in its broadest possible sense,
And can include, without limitation, business entities that issue handheld devices and those that accept them or provide reimbursement services for card user. Sponsors may also include health and medical institutions and other services or charities.

The term “computer” is used herein in its broadest possible sense and may include, without limitation, laptop computers, personal computers, mobile phones, personal digital assistants or other computer-like devices.

[0020] Of the outline various objects, features and advantages of the present invention is a novel and interactive hand-held device to perform commercially advantageous signaling, various modes of information transfer and value display method Will be noted. The handheld devices of the present invention are portable devices such as smart cards, mobile phones and personal digital assistants ("PDAs") that include means for receiving auxiliary data. To provide some of the promotional opportunities described herein, the handheld device may be referred to herein as "network access", "wireless access", "internet access", or "wireless internet". It is preferable to have a means for connecting to. These handheld devices include video, audio and / or
Or radio transmission to play other data, computer system, video recording,
Respond from receiving auxiliary data from sources, including video transmissions or other sources. Preferably, the handheld device including optical or electrical detection and decoding means is responsive to auxiliary data received from the video display. All video displays, whether television sets or monitors, television analogs, or image-presenting display devices capable of displaying images containing modulated video signals, are collectively referred to herein simply as "display devices." You can

Signals are received by the new handheld device for a variety of purposes including:
Detected and replayed. That is, sales points including sales, promotion, coupon or prize effect confirmation, advertisement by sponsors, advertisement verification and opinion poll, information transfer, data collection, commercial verification, safety and access, education, game execution, Internet A report or verification or redemption, or other commercial and non-commercial purpose sponsored by an entity or related commercial location in an information management system.

The transmission of the auxiliary data to the handheld device is preferably encoded using a video modulation system as described in Brownton or Ciardullo, but using the vertical blanking interval (VBI) instead. By other known methods in the art including threading. Video signal can be broadcast, cable,
It can be transmitted to a display device by satellite or home video.

[0023]   Other objects, features and advantages of the invention include:

That is, both the mode of transmission of the information and the display of the received information and / or its displayable value attracts the viewer's attention and is (commercial advertising) to the viewer.
Interactive handheld in a way that stimulates the transmission to be viewed and effectively invites the viewer to respond to its reception and to take action on that response, as well as to achieve its intended purpose. A method of television interactive advertising and promotional signal transmission using a device.

[0025]   Thus, a system is described herein that includes:

That is, a method of signal transmission that is cost effective, brand effective, and of interest to users of the new interactive handheld devices.

A method of signal transmission such as using an interactive handheld device that effectively increases customer awareness, memory, and advertiser message and product differentiation.

A method of signal transmission such as using a video interactive handheld device that allows viewers of television (or video) programs, including advertisements, to interact directly with the device (such as a television receiver or display).

Build a store (point-of-sale information management system) transaction, foster customer patent royalties,
And a method of signal transmission such as using an interactive handheld device that gives the viewer the reason to pay more attention to the company's products, services and advertisements.

Displaying and receiving relevant internet addresses, textual information or codes and other promotional information available to a computer or computer-like device to viewers of television (or video) programs, including advertisements, for use by the computer. A signal transmission method such as using a video interactive handheld device to upload information.

The handheld device of the present invention is inherently simple, effective and economical to manufacture and widely distributed, and reliable, and easy to use.

The following are merely some of the advantages and objectives the new system provides. That is, TV ad response determination, interactive advertising and sales promotion, viewer attention, commercial advertising, messages, announcements, sales promotion, and effective enhancement of customer awareness and memory about specific products and services, products and Increased customer differentiation of services, stimulating viewers 'commercials, increasing the volume of business transactions in response to commercial messages, fostering customer patent royalties, strengthening viewers' inclusion in program content including commercials, Enhance viewers' memory of commercial and other message content, enhance commercial message value, enhance product / service sales, save advertising costs, accelerate customer response time following commercial message delivery, competition and arbitrage Verification, strengthening viewer's memory of related website domain names, e-commerce Reducing barriers associated with pull temporary compensation information when the additional obtained through the Internet. The uses and benefits are more fully developed in the description below.

Briefly, a system using a handheld device that derives benefits from receiving auxiliary data is described herein. The auxiliary data is encoded by modulating the video signal, thereby producing a composite video signal consisting of the auxiliary data and the continuous video program data. The composite video signal is transmitted to the display device for display.

When the handheld device is a smart card, the preferred method of receiving auxiliary data is by optically detecting and pulling the auxiliary data onto the smart card. The user first puts on the optical receiver of the smart card so that the smart card can receive the video signal from the display device. When activated and put in place, the smart card will begin to receive video signals. The circuitry of the smart card determines whether the auxiliary data is in the video signal (ie, the video signal composite video signal received therein). If there is auxiliary data, the handheld device reproduces the auxiliary data for that purpose.

When the handheld device is a mobile phone or PDA, the preferred method of receiving auxiliary data is by detecting and electronically extracting auxiliary data from the video signal through the use of a decoder box. The decoder box has a circuit configuration for determining whether auxiliary data is present in the video signal. The box then transmits the reproduced auxiliary data to the mobile phone / PDA by RF, IR, PCMCIA or wire transfer. These data transfer methods are faster and more reliable than optical transmission, and the received data can then be transmitted faster. Box is RC
Although it is preferable to use the A jack to receive the video signal from its source,
The data may otherwise be received through other methods such as through the use of Super VHS, Fireline, or coaxial means, or may be connected to an RF antenna integrated into some of the circuitry of the television, or A decoder device may be connected to receive the video stream.

The auxiliary data, when present, is transmitted from the decoder box to the handheld device. The transmission to the handheld device preferably occurs over RF so that the handheld device does not need to be sighted or physically connected to the decoder. However, various other methods, including IR transmission and direct connection through a computer interface such as a PCMCIA port, can receive the transmission from the decoder box as well. The decoder box can also function as a bidirectional device and can receive information from the mobile phone / PDA. The decoder box can display on screen the information received from the mobile phone / PDA by a suitable graphic rendering unit. As an alternative or in addition to the mobile phone / PDA with network access, the decoder box can instead include network access. The decoder box may additionally include means for controlling various devices such as a VCR. Users receive a decoder box or VC when receiving information such as a TV schedule on their handheld device.
A request can be transmitted to R to schedule the recording of the television program. In the art, optical methods are preferred for smart cards, electrical methods are preferred for mobile phones and PDAs, but both methods are compatible and can be used under the present invention for any handheld device.

Among the various methods described herein, one can note the method of video interactive advertising and promotion with normal television program content modulated to include ancillary data,
Auxiliary data here relate to the sponsor and carry information of particular importance to the sponsor and of particular value to the television viewer, a handheld interactive device for the television viewer's use and convenience. An interactive device that obtains ancillary data by allocating to them and allowing the device to selectively receive ancillary data or to receive and decode composite video signals and reward viewers with information of particular value. Provides an incentive for the viewer to use, the interactive device can retain an indication that it has received the information, and can provide a redemption of particular value to the user at a redemption location where the user can submit the interactive device. .

When the auxiliary data is reproduced by the use of the card, various possible signals, displays, display readouts, or other interactive events benefit the user according to the content of the auxiliary data. For example, a series of electroluminescent (EL) can operate in sequence to represent coupon value. An LCD readout or other visual display device can inform the user or give a notification of the value received. Bonus points can be collected and held on the device. documents,
The code or other data can be transferred to a connected computer where the information can be displayed or executed on the computer. When using the device in connection with a sports program, the user can receive current sports statistics, such as batter batting statistics, on the alphanumeric display of the handheld device. When using this device in conjunction with a car racing program, the user can receive lap data, position, speed of race participants, or other statistics from a race event on the alphanumeric display of the handheld device. Such statistics can be delivered or displayed in real time. For the user of the device associated with hotel access, additional access to the room and facilities is available to the user and the display can appear on the LCD.

The handheld device may have additional capabilities for promotional and pre-programmed or programmed via user input. Such capabilities may include demographic or user information that may be used by the user or device sponsor for various applications of the handheld device. Handheld devices can also be used to make or facilitate the purchase of items.

Handheld device designs are typically in the shape and form of smart cards, palm devices, or mobile phones. The external design of the handheld device may include recognized athletes, teams, products or other numerical indicia, and the collection of data placed on the card allows the user to find such things as in the roast meat federation. Seduce you to store, collect, and exchange cards. Moreover, other manually operated devices of similar size and nature that are capable of receiving and processing ancillary data as described herein are also within the scope of the invention, as appropriate or desirable. The data can be received either by electrical or optical means. Thus, stuffed animals or toys,
A snapshot camera, a replica sports helmet, a reduced racing car, or a replica baseball bat with proper circuitry can process the data as a handheld device of the nature described herein.

Another feature of the invention is any computer interface port. Handheld devices facilitate transmission between this device and other handheld devices, computers and other computer-like devices. In promotional applications for handheld devices that require Internet access, if this device is not capable of transmitting data and information through the Internet, directly through wireless means, or through other direct connections to the Internet, then it is the computer's interface port. You can connect to the Internet through the use of. When watching commercials, programs, or movies, television viewers use handheld devices to gain opportunities for electronic commerce or information purposes. The information is then transferred to a computer or computer-like device where it can be used for informational or promotional opportunities. For example, a talk show can have a discussion about extinct animals. Informational or promotional opportunities, such as books or videos available on those animals, relate to how viewers can learn more from a given internet website. Along with the information, it is transmitted in a composite video signal received by the handheld device.

The opportunity is preferably transmitted as an auxiliary data content along with the composite video signal, and electrically detected and discriminated by the decoder box when the handheld device is a PDA or mobile telephone, and then RF for its use
To the handheld device. Auxiliary data can also be transferred by IR and other known means, including through the wire directly. Alternatively,
Auxiliary data can be detected optically and played by a handheld device, which is the preferred method of receiving auxiliary data when the device is a smart card. As a further alternative, the auxiliary data can be detected either electrically or optically and then transferred to and discriminated by the hardware or software of the connected computer or computer-like device.

In some promotional applications, the opportunity is transmitted with the composite video signal, and is preferably optically detected and reproduced by a handheld device, and then transmitted by an interface to a computer. However, the auxiliary data can instead be detected electronically by the decoder device, transferred to the card and discriminated, and then transferred again via the interface to the computer. As a further alternative, the received composite video signal can be transmitted by the interface from the handheld device to the computer, where the auxiliary data is discriminated and the opportunity then detected and reproduced by the computer. In any of the ways described herein, the once-available opportunity on the computer can be stored and used for electronic commerce or information gathering.

When properly connected, the information stored from the computer interface card (when appropriate) is uploaded to the computer for processing and fulfillment. Information received by a computer may be displayed to a user and executed on behalf of the user by a web page, Internet address or uniform resource locator (“URL”), hypertext markup language (“H”).
TML ") or similar document information or code. This information provides a way for the user to benefit through interactivity and for sponsors to provide promotional information to the user.

Under the present invention, devices and methods are provided for redeeming electronic coupons with a point of sale system using existing point of sale system (“POS”) hardware and software. Moreover, the coupon can be configured to be used only once and with a reasonably high degree of security. Moreover, the checkout time is not significantly degraded and multiple coupons are relatively easy to use for the same PO.
Redeem with S. One way to use the card at the POS involves the user giving the treasurer a handheld device. The cashier then uses the scroll feature in combination with the LCD to place the correct coupon or redemption value on the handheld device. The handheld device is then held with the LCD facing the cashier and the photodetector facing the bar code scanner. The "Redemption" button is then pressed and the photodetector of the handheld device passes over the barcode scanner. If a scan is not detected within 30 seconds, the handheld device timer resets the device to a redemption mode. When the scanning laser light is detected by the handheld device, the device beeps and displays a numeric code that can correspond to the number of stock storage units (SKUs) or other information related to receipt of product shipments, inventory and / or inventory To be done. Other codes may also be displayed, including additional numeric codes such as handheld device serial numbers or safety codes. The treasurer then enters the numeric code or code and the appropriate discount or value is applied to the customer's purchase.
The timer can also delete a coupon if the handheld device scrolls to the next coupon, or if the device loses power and is then restored again. The coupon can also be deleted, either automatically or manually, by pressing a predetermined button on the handheld device.

Various other methods of the invention are described in the description and claims below. Similarly other objects and features will be apparent, or will be pointed out in more detail below.

Description of Embodiments Referring to FIGS. 1-3, in a system of the present invention, and in accordance with various methods described herein, a composite video signal is generated by the interactive handheld device 12 of the present invention. Received and projected by the display device 10, as received by one embodiment. The display device 10 includes a television transmitter, a video tape, a streaming video server, a digital versatile disc (“DVD”),
Or a television screen, video monitor, or other video display, movie screen, computer monitor, capable of receiving analog or digital video or video surrogate signals from a suitable source, such as a computerized display representation of the source of image content. Represents a video conversion display or a video-like display. However, for present purposes, it is envisioned that the display device 10 is a kinescope or other conventional type of television display or monitor (although they of course include multiple or single beams of projector displays). Will be done.

Thus, the display device 10 can diagrammatically represent a video display for displaying a video signal, but instead of only image information in a visual mode, auxiliary information (ie data) in a substantially transparent manner. ) Can be provided for any type of electron gun, actuated array or passive array display device. Display device 10 may be further characterized as a computer monitor or display, and part of the window of such a display device. Display device 10 may also be a high definition or digital television or other digital video display device. Video signals include microwave relays, satellite retransmissions or cables, streaming and other types of downloadable or observable computer video programs, and those generally available by wired or wireless methods.

The new interactive handheld device 12 may be in the form of any type of manually operated device such as a smart card, cell phone, PDA or other palm-like device, and is illustrated in FIG. 1 as a smart card. . The handheld device 12
The device 12, typically within the same room and properly oriented when needed, typically into the palm, so as to optically receive light from the visual representation of the video signal from the display device. Or it can be held between the user's fingers. When the handheld device 12 is a PDA or mobile phone, it is configured to receive RF transmissions, but instead can receive other signals such as IR, and auxiliary data or other signals from the decoder box. Should be directed or connected to receive. When the handheld device 12 is a smart card, so that the card can receive light from the visual representation of the video signal from the display device,
It is typically inside the same room, and properly oriented.

Handheld device 12 is depicted as a PDA in FIG. 2A and is shown in a manner that it can be held and used. The handheld device 12 may include a PDA sized housing 14 that contains the various circuits and circuit components (“circuitry”) of the device. The handheld device 12 is used when taking the shape of a smart card (
(As further shown in FIG. 2C), it will be thicker than the credit card required to include circuitry within the housing 14 to perform the desired or described below. The housing 14 can be any desired hand-held shape that is both functional and manually operable, examples of which are PDAs (as shown), cell phones, PCMCIA cards, snapshot cameras, replica sports helmets, replica baseball bats. Or including football, or reduced racing cars.

On the front 16 of the handheld device 12 is the brand name of the imprinted sponsor 17 and possibly information or indicia that allows the user to associate the handheld device 12 with a particular sponsor 17. Imprinted sponsors 1 when handheld devices 12 are cheap to manufacture, such as when they are in the form of smart cards
7 will be found at a higher frequency. However, the handheld device 1
Such a mark would not be included when the 2 is a user's personal device such as a cell phone or PDA that has other primary uses than receiving promotional opportunities. Sponsors 17 can include various corporate entities such as advertisers, internet websites, television shows, other events, programs or events where the use of the device will provide interactive opportunities. The sponsor 17 uses the handheld device 12 to access a hotel, telephone company, PDA service, or a handheld user of that service, such as a privileged and / or rewarding business location. It may be a company that provides the device 12.

The tip edge 18 of the PDA-like handheld device 12 may include an RF antenna 68 for receiving auxiliary data, as described below. As shown in FIG. 2B, a light emitting diode or electroluminescent light source 20a, 20b.
, 20c and 20d, alternately or additionally, are visible from the front 16 of the device. The handheld device 12 has various user controls and may include a keypad or touch screen (not shown) that allows the user to enter specific functions and additional uses.

Handheld device 12 is depicted as a smart card in FIG. 2C in a manner that it can be held and used. The handheld device 12 includes a purse card size housing 14 which encloses various circuits and circuit components (“circuitry”) of a credit card or device. The housing 14 of the handheld device 12 may be thicker than a credit card, as may be desirable or necessary to include within circuitry to perform the functions described below. The housing 14 can be any desired handheld shape that is functional and manually operable, examples of which include a PCMCIA card, a snapshot camera, a replica sports helmet, or a miniature racing car.

The distal edge 18 of the handheld device 12 is provided in the housing 1 as described herein below.
4 a lens or small opening 36 to pass the video signal to the light sensor inside.
Can be included. From the front surface 16 of the handheld device 12, one can see a plurality of light emitting devices 20, which can be, for example, light emitting diodes (LEDs), including areas of LCDs, either active or passive type, or other electroluminescent light sources.

A typical way in which the handheld device 12 is used and the light is manipulated is as follows. That is, a viewer watches a television program, such as a commercial, television program, movie, or other video display program. When such a program is displayed, the user then holds the handheld device 12 shown in Figures 2B and 2C.
The user positions the handheld device 12 so that the leading edge 18 of the handheld device 12 is where the video signal from the display device 10 is received. The handheld device 12 or the display device 10 may have indicia to inform the viewer to press the tender membrane or button 22 at a preferred time, such as when a sponsoring corporate entity commercial appears. Here, the term "button" is used, but it is considered to include a membrane switch, ie a pressure or touch area that can be actuated and performs the function of the button. When the user presses button 22, the video signal will be detected and received by a photodetector inside housing 14 (the process is described below). The composite video signal comprises a video signal that has been modulated with ancillary data according to the teachings of Brownton and / or Ciardullo, previously referenced, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. A discriminator implemented by the circuitry of the handheld device 12 determines whether the auxiliary data was transmitted with the video signal of the program.

However, the video signal may then be received by the decoder box which discriminates the auxiliary data and transfers it to the handheld device 12 by RF or by IR or other means including computer ports and direct wire connection. . The received video signal may be sent to a computer or computer-like device through the interface of the handheld device 12 (described below), where auxiliary data discrimination is performed in the customer's hardware or software.

If the discriminator determines that the transmitted video signal contains auxiliary data or that auxiliary data has been received, the circuitry of the handheld device 12 is then present on the printed circuit board. It causes the audio transducer 34 to emit a sound, or "beep," to provide assurance that the ancillary data has been successfully received. Appropriate openings may be provided in the front or back of the handheld device 12 to allow sound to pass from the audio transducer 34.

The handheld device 12 may include more advanced means of providing sound to the user. The handheld device 12 can include advanced acoustic circuitry so that the device can play digital audio signals with songs or musical instruments. Songs can be pre-recorded on the handheld device 12 and triggered by an appropriate announcement, or they can be delayed or downloaded in real time and then played back. Thus, a version of music capable handheld device 12 can transfer songs to and from other devices 12 along with any source of ancillary data to synchronize songs through multiple devices.

The circuitry of the handheld device 12 also includes one or more of the light 2 of FIG. 2B or 2C.
The operation of 0a, 20b, 20c and / or 20d, the value received (whether it is a discount, a gift, a coupon, or an item) can be displayed. For example, one light 20a may authorize the user to a free beverage at the sponsor's store location. The two lights 20a and 20b can display a substantially greater coupon value, such as a 12 pack beverage. The coupon value of turning on the three lights 20a, 20b and 20c can indicate the authority to the magnificent free gift such as the user's lifetime free supply of beverages. The term "light" is intended to mean any kind of indicia useful for carrying a signal or for indicating a purpose visible to a user.

In order to confer the benefits from the reception of auxiliary data, in an alternative method, FIG. 2B
Alternatively, it is also possible to use the light 20a, 20b, 20c and / or 20d of Figure 2C. For example, different colored lights 20 can be used with each color representing a different giveaway or different value. Alternatively, the light 20 indicates that each time a different commercial of the sponsoring entity is shown, and thus the user will have the incentive to see a large number of commercials that are entitled to a prize or benefit. To operate, the handheld device 12 can be programmed.

The handheld device and the lights 20a, 20b, 20c and / or 20d operate in the following manner. That is, during a commercial or at an appropriate time, the user presses the button 22 to receive the video signal with the preconfigured handheld device 12. If there is appropriate auxiliary data in the received video signal, then the handheld device 12 enables reception of the auxiliary data by illuminating the first light 20a. The second light 20b illuminates during the next commercial. The second light 20c illuminates during the third commercial, and during the fourth commercial program,
The light 20d illuminates. The user then suitably presents the handheld device 12 to the vendor location, a redemption center, or an internet website to determine if the device is to be awarded a special gift. If the handheld device 12 does not authorize the user to a special prize, then a disappointment prize or an alternative prize may be obtained. Signal lights 20a, 20b, 20c and / or 2
Different changes in 0d lighting can empower the user to alternate disappointment prizes or other giveaways.

Alternatively, the light can act in the following manner. That is, during each play quota, the user can press button 22 when a commercial appears. Auxiliary data (via the process described above) event or handheld device 1
When successfully received from two commercial sponsors 17, the first light 20a will be illuminated to indicate the receipt of commercials during the first quarter. Such operation will continue through successive quarters until all light is illuminated. The user can then present the handheld device 12 to a store or point-of-sale system operated by the commercial sponsor 17 to receive a prize or grand prize depending on the configuration of the device 12. Or
The user can be rewarded by how many lights 20 are illuminated. The user then subsequently presents or submits the handheld device 12 for value reimbursement, for example, to a lottery station, where the device 12 identifies the user's name to the user, where the device 12 Withdrawn.

The store location, point-of-sale system or sponsor's website may be used by the handheld device 12 so that it can be reused in a similar manner during future programming.
May be included. Such means provide a handheld device 12 that allows one user to redeem their benefits for a limited number of times or for a limited period of time.
May include leaving a mark of prior receipt of the prize. Redemption Center has device 12
The recipients of the benefits of are actually authorized to receive them, and the device 12
The handheld device 12 can have a cord on the back, so that it can be verified that is not modified to receive unqualified benefits.

From the above, a viewer using the handheld device 12 can be invited to watch a program that would otherwise not seem. The incentives can span a series of commercials, allowing the user to watch the show after the show for a number of consecutive days or weeks. Advertisers can also make better decisions about who is watching and paying attention to their commercials. When the user returns or brings the handheld device 12 to the redemption center, the advertiser will have knowledge of how many people are actually utilizing the promotion. The handheld device 12 not only invites the viewer to watch the commercial, but also displays by the light 20a, 20b, 20c and / or 20d displayed by the LCD 44 of the handheld device 12 or a visual display 20, such as a code. Invites the visitor to visit the sponsor's location, point-of-sale system, or Internet website where the viewer can receive the value displayed by the handheld device 12.

Another example of the use of the handheld device 12 is as follows. That is, in the case of a television broadcast, the announcer discloses the airfare special indicating the available flight time and cost at the last minute. The video signal is modulated into auxiliary data included with the flight information. Interested users capture ancillary data including their selected flight associations. After receiving the data, the user may view the opportunity directly on the LCD 44 of the handheld device 12, or alternatively may be provided with a special internet link to the opportunity. Users with internet access can directly purchase the opportunity for them to be confirmed about the ticket purchased. Users without network access can connect the handheld device 12 to a computer with internet access to access the airline's internet website and access availability, cost, flight information, and their tickets. Validate the constraints to complete. Alternatively, the users would be required to arrive at the airport on the basis that the first one was serviced first to complete their purchase, and wait at the last minute. They can take their flight even though the traveler buys the ticket.

There are various incentives for a user to watch a sponsor's televised programs, including commercials containing entertainment or value information for the user. For example, during each quota of the game, the user may turn on lights 20a, 20b, 20c and 2 during the subsequent quota.
You will watch the commercial to get an indication of participation by 0d. The users take the handheld device 12 to the POS where they are operated by the sponsor,
And know that you can receive the free gifts you have seen. A common advertising strategy for sponsors of large sporting events such as "bowl" games is to offer programming during each quota of the game.

During national television televised “super” events such as the well-known Super Bowl, World Series, and “Bowl” games, increased viewership rates have led advertisers to Not only will you pay attention to such commercials, but you will also be invited to provide impressive commercials that will interact, watch, participate in, and have a positive impression. When used during such televised programs, the handheld device 12 allows advertising sponsors for promotional activities and to ensure audience participation, and thereby successful viewer viewing and products / services. Provides an unmatched opportunity to provide particularly effective methodologies and tools whose interest in can be measured.

Many advertisers can use the handheld device 12 for the same event or multiple events. For example, if a commercial for a product or service of the first sponsor 17 (such as for a car) is provided during a television show, a second sponsor 17 for the product or service (of a bank providing financing for the sale of those cars). Handheld device 12 is particularly adaptable, by its resident instruction set, to be "co-branded" by responding to programs of both sponsors, if a relationship exists. Common brand handheld device 1
2 can be used to provide special incentives, such as through a free gift or other value for a program on a bank, dealer, or Internet website that is affiliated with or sponsors a commercial program. Handheld device 12
And many other co-branded possibilities for its use will become apparent.

FIG. 4 illustrates features of the handheld device 12 including provision of aiming light 24 on the surface of the handheld device. Aiming light 24 is typically included in embodiments of the handheld device 12 to indicate that the device 12 is positioned so that the device 12 can capture the video signal emanating from the display device 10. for,
The video signal is optically received by the device 12. When the button 22 is pressed while the leading edge 18 of the handheld device 12 is generally oriented at the display device 10, the received composite video signal is received by the illumination of the aiming light 24. Display that. The aiming light 24 is for a predetermined period of time sufficient to indicate that the handheld device 12 is properly oriented or aimed as long as data is being received, or because the encoded signal can be received by the device 12. And illuminate for a long enough time. The aiming light 24 has auxiliary data of IR,
An embodiment of the handheld device 12 where a video signal is electrically received may be included to alert the user that it was received via an RF or computer interface.

Referring to FIG. 5, internal features of the handheld device 12 are illustrated. It is seen that they include a button 22 and a printed circuit board 26 with an integrated circuit 28 that includes aiming light 24, which may be, for example, an LED. The circuit board contains optional photocells 30 in appropriate locations. Photocell 30 has a suitable opening 36 that may be in a position such as shown in FIG. 3 along the distal edge 18 of handheld device 12.
It is properly oriented so that it can receive light through (not shown). This circuit
One or more batteries 32 or other suitable battery (not shown) intended to provide sufficient power to operate the handheld device 12 for days, weeks, months, or years. Powered by. The battery 32 can be used with other similar power sources such as solar cells for portable power (not shown). The electronic circuitry of a PDA, cell phone, or other computer-like device capable of processing the ancillary data described herein is responsible for providing the functionality described herein with respect to other functionality of the handheld device 12. It will be appreciated that a large number of electronic circuits can be included in the.

It has been shown that three lights 20 are present on the circuit board, and they are LEDs
Takes the form of. However, as can be seen from the study of Figure 14, the circuit can provide more than two such lights. For example, it has up to 9 LEDs
A circuit for activating the.

With reference to FIG. 6, an example of a handheld device 12 including provisions for an LCD 44 is shown. The LCD 44 is a 16 digit document display, but less or more display capabilities can be provided based on need and use. However, it is preferred to use an alternative LCD 44 that can represent the graphical content in monochrome or colour.

The handheld device 12, when pressed, initiates operation of the LCD 44 on the display to display coupons, giveaways, or other information indicating receipt by the device of auxiliary data. have. For example, the LCD 44 is
It can be used to display the first coupon in a list of offers linked in a circle. The power button 38 can also be held to initiate reception of the video signal, or can be separate from the button 22 and used for other display or control purposes. The scroll button 40 allows the user to traverse or scroll through the information held or received by the handheld device 12, eg, the circularly linked list of offers received and stored by the device 12. Any of the various buttons 22, 38, 40 or 42 implemented by using other buttons with other functions on the handheld device 12, such as numbered buttons on a cell phone or shortcut buttons on a PDA. It will be appreciated that it can.
Further, these buttons 22, 38, 40 or 42 can be implemented via a touch screen such that there are no physical buttons 22, 38, 40 or 42 on the device.

At any time while viewing an offer, the expiry button 42 will display the expiration date of the coupon value when pressed and will once again show the original offer when released, or alternate between different displays. . The expiration button 42 can display the date of expiration of the handheld device 12, after which the device will no longer function or will have reduced functionality. The expiration button 42 can display the expiration of a program or feature on the handheld device 12. This feature and programming of the handheld device 12 can be reused until expiration, and such reuse can be used to watch various games throughout the season, watch all quotas or periods of play, and play appropriate commercials. It can include watching.

As yet another alternative, where the expiry button 42 is depressed or when it is depressed in association with the other buttons 22, 38 or 40, the handheld device 1 is anywhere.
Additional data information can be displayed about which 2 is issued to the user, where the user lives, the serial number, and other data the sponsor may want.
The displayed data can also identify the holder of the handheld device 12 and can include numbers,
It can have a personal identification number, or other data that is personal to the holder, such as a residence address. It would be desirable or necessary to disclose to the user the extent to which such personal information would be collected by use of the handheld device 12.

Thus, when the handheld device 12 is used in a redemption center, such as a restaurant operated by a point-of-sale system, an internet website, or sponsor 17, or on its behalf, the benefits are benefited by the user. be able to. Based on the data stored on the device, information about the user may then be made available to sponsors, merchants, or other sellers of products or services. In this way sponsors 17, merchants, or other sellers of products or services can learn about their customers, possibly adding user name or address or additional information about the customer to the customer base.

The offers received by the handheld device 12 are displayed by the document information and graphics displayed on the LCD 44, rather than by illuminating the light signal 20. The ancillary data may include offers with teaching or identification of redemption locations. The document may otherwise identify the product or discount or other coupon to be redeemed by the user. For example, the handheld device 12 is the device 1
2 can be used in a mode in which the device receives a composite video signal that triggers a programmed offer already present in the linked list stored in 2.

After viewing the commercial, the ancillary data causes pre-programmed document information on the handheld device 12 to display products, discounts, or other coupons available until the expiration date. The handheld device 12 receives the auxiliary data, corrects the information, and makes an offer available to the user. Alternatively, the information can be received by the handheld device 12 during use and then decoded, displayed on the LCD 44, and added to the linked list.

The handheld device 12 is useful for storing multiple offers. Multiple offers may be from the same sponsor or different sponsors 17. The offers received can be valid for some different amounts and for varying periods or dates. The handheld device 12 may also store previously received offers, for example to indicate that the user may not be able to reuse them in the event of a free gift or temporary benefit.

Items displayed on the LCD 44 include coupons for giving offers, coupon values,
The effectiveness of the discount, or other user benefit, such as gift item identification or redemption location. When the handheld device 12 is brought by the user to a redemption site, such as a sponsor 17, a merchant or a seller of a product or service center, the items stored in the handheld device 12 are subject to authorized processing at the redemption point. Items that can be removed, or stored, or coupons can be reused until the expiration date. The coupon may include the date the commercial initially began or the date the coupon was received by the handheld device 12. In other words, the auxiliary data can have an encoded date stamp or the handheld device 12 can stamp the date of the information received. The date information can inform them about the minimally or maximally effective display of the merchant or sponsor's commercial.

It may also be desirable to purchase items from the use of handheld device 12. The handheld device 12 can store purchase information such as one or more credit card numbers. This feature can be used, for example, when the handheld device 12 can receive multiple users. After such an offer is downloaded to the handheld device 12, the user connects the device to the Internet by any of the methods described herein. The user selects the offer and chooses to purchase the discounted item. The stored credit card and shipping information is transferred over the internet to carry out the transaction. The handheld device 12 can also store other data sufficient to make a purchase, such as a cash card or online wallet service information.

FIG. 7 shows the circuit features of an embodiment of the card of the handheld device 12 without the housing 14. The LCD 44 is apparent as controls 38, 40, 42, and a pair of batteries 32 is located on the right side of the circuit board.

FIG. 8 is an alternative to a handheld device 12 with input-output means, preferably in the form of a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (“PCMCIA”) interface, such as would normally be found in laptop computers. Shows a chart of. PCMCIA interface 70 interfaces with PCMCIA connector 72 for transmitting information to and from a computer or computer-like device. The connection of the PCMCIA interface 70 to the computer is preferably made by a PCMCIA port, but the connection means may instead be any other known computer or computer-like slot, connection and Ethernet, Token Ring, infrared (" IR ”), RF, small computer system interface (“ SCSI ”), universal serial bus (“ UBS ”), parallel port (“ Parallel ”), serial port (“ Serial ”), IEEE1394 FireWire (“ FireWire ”), S / It is also possible through ports such as PDIF, AES / EBU, fiber optic cables, and Apple Desktop Bus ("ADB"). Handheld device 12 may also utilize a portable data storage device such as flash memory, minidisk, or stick memory to manually transfer information from handheld device 12 to a computer. The type of connection used in various applications of handheld device 12 will vary based on factors including cost, transfer rate, and acceptance by the user or industry.

The handheld device 12, which is preferably connected when applicable to a computer, is also connected to a computer-like device or other device capable of processing information transferred from a computer interface device or performing a function. it can. These devices include PDAs or other palmtop PCs, cellular phones, and other handheld network connections or computer-like devices. The handheld device preferably has wireless internet access that provides instant internet transactions without the use of a computer or computer-like device.

With respect to various other embodiments of the handheld device 12, the composite video signal is preferably received by the RF antenna 68 by electrical means as shown here. The power and functionality of the handheld device is increased by an additional RAM 51 connected to the microprocessor 50. Battery 32, optional solar panel 33,
A power system for a handheld device, including a power control 31 and a power control 31 provides sufficient power to process and interface with various devices. The composite video signal can also be received by a photocell 30, shown here as a photodetector 30a and a photoreceiver circuit 30b.

The video signal is preferably received electrically from the display device 10, the auxiliary data is decoded and transferred to the handheld device 12 by RF means. Alternatively, the video signals received by the device can be discriminated by the microprocessor 50 of the handheld device 12. As a further alternative, the handheld device 12 can receive the video signal by optical or electrical means,
And the received data can be transferred through the PCMCIA interface 70. If the received data is processed on a computer, the computer can act as a discriminator to determine when auxiliary data was present and handle it appropriately. The data can also be sent back to the handheld device 12 for further processing, promotion or informational opportunities. When the received data is not immediately sent through the PCMCIA interface 70, the data is processed as in the other embodiments described herein.

The visual response, preferably by any of the LEDs 20 or LCD 44, the promotional data is made available on the user's computer when the PCMCIA connector 72 connects the computer to the PCMCIA interface 70. Such promotional data includes internet websites or addresses, textual information and codes, audio and visual files. When receiving data, either by the RF antenna 68, the photodetector 30, or by the PCMCIA interface 70, the handheld device 12 can display an appropriate confirmation message on the LCD 44 or otherwise receive the data to the user. Can inform you.

An example of the use of the handheld device 12 is as follows. That is, the store or sponsor 17 issues the handheld device 12 to the child,
Or, otherwise, provide the child with a means of interacting, such as by giving a program that can be downloaded from an Internet website used on a cell phone, PDA, or smart card. During a cartoon or at other times when a child or the like is likely to watch television, the television program is displayed as a television program including a modulated video signal. The program advertises products sold by the store or made by the sponsor. Children use their handheld device 12 to tell their parents what toys they want on their birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions. Be taught. After capturing supplemental data, including information or product data, the children, etc., give the handheld device 12 to their parents. Parents can then look up the product selected by the child and purchase the product or service directly if the device has internet access. if,
If the handheld device 12 does not have internet access, the parents connect the handheld device 12 to their computer with internet access,
Then, one or more toys can be purchased online from an internet store directly from the sponsor 17 or from a store directed by the agent of the sponsor 17. The toy can then be pre-programmed with information about it by the user,
Will be shipped to a location specified by the user. If you have a handheld device 1
If the two have wireless Internet access and stored credit card and shipping information, parents simply need to enter the authorization code and purchase the product with little effort. Alternatively, parents can bring the handheld device 12 to the store or send it to the store or sponsor 17, so that the order is processed and fulfilled. In this way, parents can purchase the toys desired by their children and the like with minimal time and effort. It will be apparent that the handheld device 12 could be used in a manner similar to the wedding registration, which is instead purchased for the selected object and instead is listed online in the gift registration. Thus, those who want to buy toys for their children will know what their children want.

Another example use of the handheld device 12 is as a patent royalties device that stores bonus points in the memory of the device 12 and / or at a remote location such as a central computer. The handheld device 12 stores bonus points for a watched television show or movie, including ancillary data with bonus point values. The show may require the user to obtain supplemental data at the beginning, during, and at many times during the show in order to receive bonus points for viewing the show. The user can receive additional bonus points by purchasing VHS or DVD movies, movie theater tickets, or merchandise.
Users can receive additional bonus points by visiting the sponsor's internet website, and by further exploring their website and making online purchases. Users can get even more by responding to quizzes, questions, and surveys after a television show or movie. The user can use their handheld device 12 to select their answers and upload their answers through the internet, or by validating their answers during a store survey. , Can interact. The user can get additional bonus points by trying a particular restaurant on the sponsor or by trying on the rides and shows sponsored by the sponsor at Yukou Park. Thus, the user has various opportunities to collect bonus points from various sources by the sponsor or sponsor group.

FIG. 9 shows a handheld device 1 with an input output interface in the form of a PCMCIA interface 70 and a docking station 76 as shown.
2 is another embodiment. The docking station 76 can receive the discriminated auxiliary data or composite video signal and send it to the PCMCIA interface 7
0 to the handheld device 12. Alternatively, docking station 76 may include optics that may be used to optically detect the video signal from display device 10. The entire video signal can then be transferred to the handheld device 12 so that the device 12 can distinguish the auxiliary data, or the docking station 76 itself can distinguish the auxiliary data and transmit the auxiliary data to the device. The data is then IR, RF or PCMCIA
The interface 70 allows transmission to the handheld device 12.

The docking station 76 can charge the battery 22 by its battery charge control 80. The docking station 76 can perform various device functions and advanced device functions by controlling the microprocessor 50 of the handheld device 76 through the interface 78.

The handheld device 12 of FIG. 10A is similar to the other devices 12 described herein.
However, the camera card 12C can be named because it is configured to imitate the appearance of a small snapshot type camera and to suggest it to the user.

The camera card 12C allows for the use of a housing 14 in the shape of a small camera and a camera-like handheld device such that the user just uses a snapshot camera to take a "picture" of the display device 10. A suggested lens or lens imitation 36 is included. The camera card 12C is imprinted and embedded on the surface of the camera-like housing 14 to provide a more realistic simulation of the camera lens,
It includes a simulated lens 46 that is either molded or otherwise slightly protruding. The data receiving photocell 30, when present, collects information in the same manner as the previous embodiment using photodetection and can be placed behind the simulated lens 46 or just below the appropriate aperture 36. it can.

The button 22 imitates the shutter of the camera when pushed and released.
Thus, it causes the camera card 12C to receive the composite video signal or ancillary data until such collection is complete and thus the user takes a snapshot or picture (depending on the method described above).

A viewfinder 49 is provided in the form of an opening extending through the housing 14, suggesting aiming the display device 10 through the viewfinder 49, as a user would with an actual camera. The finder 49 need not have any special accuracy or lens since its main purpose is to simulate the look and feel of the camera. The camera card 12C will operate properly when its surface, including the photosensor 30, is oriented toward the display device 10, and its orientation need not be accurate in the sense of the camera, but rather just a video source. Need to be directed to. The light sensor 30 may be placed behind the lens imitation 46, or any other location that has suitable sensitivity to the video signal emanating from the display device 10.

Other non-functional decorations (not shown) can be provided on the camera card 12C to give the user further indication that they are taking a picture. Examples of such things include a wrist strap attached to a camera, a camera case, an audio transducer in the circuit of a camera card that makes a clicking sound, or a flash.

FIG. 10B shows the back side or back side of the camera card 12C. It has control and display features similar to those shown in FIG. The difference is that the working button 22
Is placed along the top or edge of the camera. Camera card 12C
Is intended to allow the user to better conceptualize the process of receiving the composite video signal from the display device 10. The use of the camera card 12C can also provide unique and entertaining opportunities such as pretending to take a picture or receiving an offer as described above.

FIG. 11A is the front of another version of an interactive handheld device that can be referred to as a racing card 12R. A camera card 12C that allows more promotional information to appear on the front of the racing card 12R on the front of the card 12C.
There is a simulated lens 46 that is smaller than the size of The promotional information may indicate or describe a racer or event for which the card may be used or otherwise facilitate the use of the holder.

FIG. 11B shows the back side or back side of the racing card 12R. Figure 6
With control and display features similar to those shown in. The difference is that the working button 22 is placed along the top surface or edge of the racing card 12R. The racing card 12R is configured to make the user better conceptualize the process of optically receiving the composite video signal from the display device 10. The racing card 12R may also provide the user with a unique and interesting opportunity to receive driving statistics and various offers and information as described above.

FIG. 11C shows the front side of the racing card 12R, ie the opposite side of the user, with the user through the viewfinder 49, with the user preparing to receive the composite video signal by the card 12R. By looking, the card 12R is aimed at the display device 10. The racing card 12R is shown in FIG.
It has control and display features similar to those illustrated in A and FIG. 11B.

When the racing card 12R is used, ancillary data can be received which can update or replace that stored in the card's memory. Also,
When the scroll button 40 is pressed, more data than can be displayed by the LCD 44 can be scrolled. For example, the racing card 12R would have stored information within its memory about races, racers, or other information related to the event. It can include, for example, previous performance, racer position, and biographical information. To give an indication of the use of the racing card 12R and to enhance its appeal to the user, especially the young user,
A reproduction of the racing car handle and instrument grouping can be displayed on the surface of the card near the LCD 44 as shown.

With reference to FIG. 13, one version of a handheld device 12 that may be referred to as a “sports” device 12S is shown. It comprises a housing 14 provided with a front surface 16, which may include a visual field 54 which bears the image of a sports player. Moreover, the LCD 44 is also provided with a button 22 to allow the user to initiate operation of the handheld device 12, as well as preferably a sports celebrity or other person whose leading edge 18 is generally depicted on the display device 10. To a display device 10 that provides a program about
An RF antenna 68 is provided which is oriented to receive an RF signal or optically receive a composite video signal, such as by holding

The update button 56 is pressed when the user desires to obtain some current information, such as current statistics of the player depicted on the sports device 12S. In operation, the sports device 12S can be designed to receive only information about the player depicted on the device 12S, update statistics for that player, or add to information about the player already stored in the device's memory, Either of them can then be scrolled across the LCD 44 by pressing the scroll button 40.

The use of the sports device 12S is as follows. That is, the display device 10 near the user represents a professional sports event such as a baseball game. Button 22 can be activated when a sporting event participant becomes the focus of attention, such as a professional baseball player heading for a batter. The aiming light 24, if present, can be illuminated or, alternatively, the LCD 44.
You can start reading the newly received stats associated with the depicted player. For example, the read would feature his name, batting average, number of home runs, games played, number of bats, and his average and stolen bases, with statistics updated each time such a player bats. Can be revealed. Statistics (as described above) can be sent to a computer through an interface.

The memory of the sports device 12S may include such non-volatile statistics from which the device 12S may update statistics each time the player approaches the batter. Auxiliary data related to at-bats received by the sports device may include information related to the player, such as his current statistics. As play continues, the auxiliary data received may include updates about those statistics based on the player's experience at bat. The information may be stored in a circularly linked list of data and may include various statistics from different games that the player has played, various statistics over the years for this player, or if for example If this device 12S, when sponsored by the owner of the team, is used to watch the entire team, it can contain different information about the various members of the team.

For example, when a prestigious batter takes his turn during a baseball game, the television viewer directs his sports device 12S toward the display device 10 or he assists to receive the composite video signal. He preferably configures his device to receive data electrically. In both cases, the viewer receives real-time statistics about his favorite athletes during a television show via his interactive sports device. Moreover, a user of the sports device 12S at a live sports event can receive information without using the display device 10, such as by RF or IR. Thus, sports fans can obtain live statistics and miscellaneous information through their handheld device 12 while watching live games. Thus, obstructed fans and sports enthusiasts may be interested in gaining additional information and enjoying live sports events. The information received by the sports device 12S may be noticeably stored on the device for average batting, home runs, or future reference or updates,
It can take many forms, including other personal information about the player. An example of such a program is shown in FIG. 13B. The stored information can then be conveniently displayed on the LCD 44 for the device holder by pressing the scroll button 40 or the update button 56, or transferred to a computer separately through the PCMCIA interface 70.

The sports device 12S allows the user and the owner the device 12 between them.
Having S traded, the device 12S has a special value and enhances its value as it is used. As the sports device 12S requires data and is updated by the user during televised play, the device 12S is becoming more valuable and more attractive to carry. The sports device 12S is
It may be similar in design to a baseball card, and can trade with other devices 12S. Moreover, the sports device 12S can be equipped to hold a permanent serial number or version number, or other information that gives the handheld device a unique personality or value, thereby making it a valuable collection. Optionally, the sports device 12S can be connected via an interface such as IR or RF to transfer the stored information to another device that can receive those results. The sports device 12S is
Therefore, it can be used for yakiniku occasions.

Moreover, the sports device 12S can be permanent based on batter name, team, previous team, and other characteristics, personal data, and statistics and information received. The possibility can be given for some permanent characteristic information such as data. Such characteristic information can be requested from the LCD 44 or transferred separately to a computer, thereby received and displayed there.

The sports device 12S can be used for coupon display and redemption purposes. While handling, other information, such as simple games or quizzes, can be received by the sports device, where the answers can be later, for example in the middle of the game, at the end of the game, at half-time, or at any other suitable time during play. It can be shown at any time. The game allows the user to select an answer, wipe out the rest of the stored data, then bring the device to a bounty store or other redemption location during the next week, and based on the selected answer You may receive discounts or free gifts. Such games are
During the seventh inning range it could be part of the "Today's Participant Estimate" in a professional baseball game.

The use of sports device 12S in the context of a baseball game is merely exemplary. Other sports in which a player has statistics that can change during play, or contain player-specific information such as hometown or a previous team are:
Similarly downloaded or transmitted by the device. Sports device 12S may also be used in conjunction with concerts and other special programming when televised or appropriately provided. The user can obtain useful information about the concert or special program such as the performer's name, set list, venue, and history as well as related internet addresses. People with hearing impairments can receive real-time documents of live speech on their handheld device,
The auxiliary data transmitted by F is received on the device. Thus
An alternative version of the sports device 12S can be used to receive information about monuments, buildings, cars, animals, etc. during live or video programming, where transmissions to the device can be received and include ancillary data.

An alternative version of sports can be referred to as a "gaming" device,
It is a handheld device. Gaming devices, like sports devices, encourage users to interact with video broadcasters of sporting events. However,
In this example, users watching a live televised sporting event in order to collect points for their gaming devices in competition with other users,
Used to predict future actions by selected players or teams.

For example, two baseball teams compete in a game featuring a live modulation of auxiliary data. The sponsor or various sponsors allocate gaming devices to various participants prior to the start of the game. The user is the selected batter,
Predict each pitch thrown for a pitcher or team by using the number code or by viewing and selecting from the touch screen display for each pitch. Alternatively, or additionally, before a throw result (ie strikeout, ball, strike, etc.), hit result (ie strikeout, walk, hit, home run, etc.), score per inning, or other computable stats occurs. You can choose. A correct estimate of the occurrence earns points, which are stored in the device's memory. According to the game, device users can submit their handheld devices and submit or upload their sources, either to a collection location or through an internet connection. The user who has the highest total score gets a large prize or discount, and various consultation prizes can be used instead. Predictions can be made for one particular batter, in one particular inning, or for one particular team. Gaming devices can also be used in a similar manner to predict and play other events such as basketball, hockey and football.

Another example of the use of this device is as follows. That is, the user watches a simple game show such as the television show "Who wants to be a millionaire?" Users can play for a long time using their handheld device. The questions are downloaded and received by the handheld device during or prior to the broadcast by the methods described herein. The question will be synchronized to the display device, so that the display device first submits the question and the encoded data will trigger the handheld device to display the question and possible answers. The user must choose the correct answer or answer in a timely manner in turn, or otherwise comply with simple game request rules in a manner similar to the competitor. The user can then receive points or credit for a correct or timely answer based on factors such as the number of other correctly answered users in the household, or the speed of reply. Country level,
The rate of home viewers at the regional level, or other areas, can be displayed on a display device, an internet website, or a handheld device in real-time or delay time. Thus, users can achieve regional or national rankings, depending on their performance. The final results from the various games are stored in a central database. High-scoring users may receive awards, prizes, or options to play future games.

Another example of the use of a handheld device is as follows. That is, the user takes the handheld device there and configures it to receive the modulated video from the display device. When watching an event like "Grammy", the performers appear on the screen and sing their song. The user
Informed that an interaction opportunity is available, either through their display device or their handheld device. This occurs when the modulated video triggers the schematic reproduction unit of the decoder box, thus creating an icon that appears on the display device (thus not on the display device by people who do not have such a unit). The handheld device gives the user the opportunity to purchase the song or album that appears on it. The purchase price may be made online or through a third party internet website, entered into or retrieved from the website. Or, if the user so desires, ordering and payment information requesting final confirmation can be sent to the user's selected e-mail address. The user can directly use the "CD
Through third party websites, like the "Now" series
Or you can purchase the music by coming directly from the manufacturer. Alternatively, a special purchase link can be sent to the user's regular e-mail address. Earlier, bonuses or supplements such as unpublished material, live songs or videos will be sent, or bonuses or supplements will include product discounts. Alternatively, the user can send a song in a suitable digital format to their e-mail account, or the selected song will be available on the website for a period of time for the user to download. Ah In the end, the song can be part of a list that is automatically created and sent to the user when the full CD length is reached. This purchasing method can be used in any way in the product being sold (such as jewelry in the "QVC Network") or other areas (such as cinema).

Hotel card 12H is also another example of a card with the function of a sophisticated hotel room key. Hotel cards work in conjunction with a smart card reader lock system to allow hotel customers to enter and leave rooms such as the customer's hotel room, garage, or pool area. The hotel card can be similarly accessed by any magnetic strip placed outside the enclosure.

At hotel check-in, the customer is given a hotel card to use throughout their stay. Hotels and hotel chains can instead issue a permanent hotel card to their frequent customers and, at check-in, begin the hotel stay with access to the room to the user's card. A children's version of the hotel card can be given at check-in to give children limited access to hotel amenities and promotional benefits available only to children.

Once the customer receives the hotel card, the card can enter the customer's room and hotel and other facilities. Customer users may also use the Hotel Card as a billing card for in-house products and services, such as a dinner at a restaurant inside the hotel, a gift at a gift store, or a snack from a vending machine. You can Invited claims will be recorded on the hotel card and will appear on the user's invoice at checkout.

Coupons, benefits or information can be entered into the hotel card at the hotel front desk at other desirable times and places, such as at check-in and at the beginning of each day. Using the smart card writer, the hotel card can enter an opportunity for use or redemption for a limited period of time. These opportunities or coupons can be discounts on local attractions, information on restaurants, special prices, or cash equivalents such as gift certificates for use at special local attractions such as additional access privileges. . The card can also enter the customer's hotel preferences, including room type and preferred activities.

The hotel room can optionally be provided with a reader / writer in the hotel card user's room. Data is written to the smart card as a result of electronic decoding performed by the docking station. The docking station can also read the data from the card and transmit the information to the central computer, preferably by a network line or otherwise by a telephone line. Alternatively, the reader / writer can be in the form of a remote control that acts as a cradle when the card is properly inserted. The IR sends data back and forth to and from the networked docking station and remote control.

The reader / writer reads the stored data from the hotel card and displays the relevant information on the television in the customer's room. Such information may include the total amount from shopping with the card combined with the cost of the room to generate the hotel bill to date. Customers may also purchase items through appropriately connected docking stations for items such as hotel card use and tickets to local attractions or additional hotel services. An alternative means of reading and writing to the card is through the use of computers and computer interfaces as described above.

The customer can obtain additional coupons by watching the television program modulated with the auxiliary data. Such data can optionally be received directly on the card, electronically by the docking station, or through a computer interface. The information received by the card typically relates to information about special discounts and area attractions. The television station or the hotel itself can modulate the television signal in order to limit the audience that can receive the signal. Thus, only visitors with a specialized hotel card can receive special discounts.

Hotel cards can be used as credit cards, and optionally the cards include billing limits along with information about where they can be used to buy items, which can then be billed to the hotel room. Thus, a business other than a hotel can perform a purchase transaction on the hotel card, which is added to the user's invoice. The billing limit may optionally change based on customer stay frequency, billing history or credit history.

The hotel or other sponsor may allow the user to collect bonus points for using the hotel card. The Perpetual Hotel Card stores a running total of bonus points with a backup of all points of any frequency through a properly connected reader / writer. Or the hotel card at each stay
It can be entered with bonus points obtained from previous visits and stored in a central computer. Bonus points can be awarded on a per stay basis and on other purchases made per stay or on a hotel card. Additional bonus points can be earned by visiting local attractions. Bonus points are gifts,
You can redeem discounts, free food, room upgrades, free night stays, or convert into airline frequent flyers.

Agreement with local attractions provides an additional means for users to advertise. Various agreements and sponsorship indicia can be seen on the case of the card. Information about various offers and attractions can be encoded on the hotel card. All purchase transactions are recorded and appropriate billing occurs when the customer checks out. The hotel may charge a flat rate or rate for these promotional activities.

Customers have the incentive to use their hotel card and visit attractions that are encouraged by the card. The customer eats at the suggested local restaurant, receives discounts on the meal, pays using the hotel card, and gets bonus points. For example, a local restaurant may have one-buy-one-buy-free coupons entered on the card, so that customers will be more accessible to the restaurant than competitors without coupons. Customers can then visit big attractions and get bonus points for the various activities they suggest or the items they buy, and purchases for them can be made through the hotel card. Attractions wishing to honor hotel card promotions should have a network connection to a reader / writer and dial-up or central computer if purchases are possible at the attraction. However, accumulated bonus points can be carried out on the card with a simple handwriting transaction and therefore the points are not stored on the card and immediately transferred to the hotel computer.

At checkout, the customer's account is cleared and paid. Customers have a "express account" if they wish, so that they don't have to sign an invoice and simply swipe their hotel card across a reader connected to the billing center. be able to. The hotel card is returned to the hotel to be reset for future regular use and is either disposable or inoperable until the customer's future check-in. Prior to clearing the card, bonus points and information regarding purchases and uses can be stored on the hotel computer. At the next stay, the user's bonus points will be accessible again. Alternatively, a third party or clearing house can set coupons and distribute cards. The hotel will then get a percentage of the overall value of the transaction or sales fee.

Interactive handheld devices specifically configured for competition participants (or competition attendees) can be referred to as “convention” devices. The tournament device allows tournament participants to capture various demonstrations and companies by watching various booths or video displays and capturing opportunities for information or devices. Information is captured from receiving ancillary data as described herein. If the demonstrator so desires, tournament participants can get coupons for discounts or free gifts from visiting the demonstrator's booth on their tournament device. Coupons can be redeemed by visiting a demonstrator store or an internet website.

Another valuable way this device is used is to receive ancillary data at a competition, show, or any other type of special event, and then an opportunity to receive useful information at that special event. Is provided to the user. For example, the user can watch a video display about an upcoming competition at a convenient location such as a hotel room. This display can indicate a booth, location, or special offer at the event. The user can use these booths, places,
Or, seeing one of the special offers, the user presses its operating button 22 to cause the device to receive auxiliary data (as above) identifying these booths, locations, or special offers. , Or equivalently by starting the control, selectively using the handheld device. Then, when the user walks around the competition,
The user can visit the premises of the competition while manipulating the scroll buttons on the handheld device to display a map or special offers for the booth, location or premises.

The tournament device can be provided to the tournament participants with their name and address pre-populated, so that the device can be conveniently read at each tournament booth. These tournament devices may also provide sponsors with tournament participant information when used in their stores or internet websites.

Before or during the competition, competition participants can watch TV in their hotel room or in a common area to learn about the companies that will provide or have a booth at the competition. Tournament participants may selectively receive information or coupons from the demonstrator by optical or electrical means. Users can receive information such as the number and location of booths and discount opportunities available during the event.

Another example of a tournament device may be referred to as a "museum" device 12M. The museum device 12M allows visitors to follow areas or exhibits in the museum. Embodiments of this device can have LEDs 20 to represent receipt of auxiliary data from any of the above sources. Such a museum device 12M can be used by school teachers to verify that a student has visited a particular exhibit at one or more museums that have video demonstrations or otherwise send data over RF.

The LCD 44 of the museum device 12M can further instruct the user of the device.
The user shall be informed about the location of the next exhibit, the time left in the museum before it closes or before a group of users exits, a redeemable coupon for the museum's gift store, or an exhibit or museum related You will be given other information.

The museum device 12M allows the user to obtain indicia or information from each position.
It can be used in a series of positions. The museum device 12M can be used in activities such as "scavenger hunting" where the user must obtain unique information or indicia from each position to win or achieve a game or activity.

In FIG. 14, in a simplified schematic diagram of one form of circuitry that may be used to provide the features and functions of the various embodiments described herein, the elements are conventional numbers close to the elements, conventional Identified by the letters. The optional optical sensor 30 includes an operational amplifier U
1A is constituted by a photodiode or phototransistor Q2 which provides a signal to an amplification and filter circuit consisting of an operational amplifier U1A, which comprises a circuit consisting of elements of C1, R19, R18 and C12 interconnected between the output of 1A and the inverting input, Thus providing an amplifier and a filter. Thus, the amplifier and filter signals are fed through R15 to the filter and frequency shaping circuit, which has in its feedback circuit an operational amplifier U1B with elements C10, C11 and R16. These circuits provide the filtered and frequency shaped output through resistor R5 and through a circuit consisting of operational amplifier U1C and resistor R11. The operational amplifier U1C has an output coupled to a diode pair D11 which provides a pair of outputs, the upper part to the circuit comprising the operational amplifier U1D provides a buffer whose output is substantially the data signal provided through the resistor R20. And the lower part of the diode 11 has a resistor R1 and a capacitor C3 connected to both ends of the resistor R1.
7 signal. The junction between R1 and R7 provides a horizontal line scan rate or 16 kHz, which is the frequency television display optical signal received by photosensor 30 (Q2). The scanning frequency of a conventional NTSC color signal is more accurately 15.625 kHz (described here as about 16 kHz). Similarly,
The discriminator circuitry provides at the output of the operational amplifier U1D an 8 kHz signal representing the received auxiliary data produced by the alternating line intensity modulation of the display. The discriminator circuitry described thus far constitutes 16 kHz and 8 actual data.
Whether there is 8 kHz data, which provides both kHz (more precisely 7.8175 kHz) and which carries the information content of the auxiliary data received,
The determination is made by determining whether the amplitude of the average signal of the 16 kHz or 8 kHz signal is greater, so that if auxiliary data is present, ie 8 kHz modulation energy is present in the received optical signal, They are provided to the U2 microprocessor of the circuit to decode the information content inside the 8 kHz. Thus, the received composite video signal is amplified and filtered to stop the enhancement of the 16 kHz signal and recover the data carrying 8 kHz signal.
That is, the waveform shaping and frequency shaping circuits provided by operational amplifiers U1A and U1B stop the enhancement of the horizontal retrace frequency and amplify the half frame rate carrying the data content of interest. The circuit filters the frame rate signal and is 8 kHz
It is used as a reference to compare the relative signal amplitude to the z data carrier signal. If the recovered 8 kHz signal has a greater amplitude than the conditional 16 kHz signal, auxiliary data is present and available to the processor. Microprocessor U2 is preferably a commercially available type Z86E02 and operates according to machine instructions stored in its resident ROM memory. A flow chart of the functions performed by the machine instructions is set forth in the Appendix. Although not shown separately, microprocessor U8 is a random access memory (RAM or DRA) in which the decoded data is stored.
M) is included. Thus, the microprocessor U2 remains as evidence or display of data, and by illuminating one or more of the LEDs, and substantially in accordance with them as taught by Broughton, and / or its LEDs or Decode and store the data present in the 8 kHz signal, such as by driving the display of other signaling devices, as well as providing any audio functionality, and also by activating the aiming LED 7 when auxiliary data is present. Or memorize the display). Also, if desired, the signal can be driven by U1 in response to the presence of ancillary data, thus providing a aiming light function that simply indicates that the handheld device is receiving a composite video signal.

Nine LEDs D9-D18 are shown here to provide illumination of the light 20 or 20a-20d described herein in connection with various embodiments. These L
It will be appreciated that not all of the EDs need be used in a particular embodiment of handheld device 12. That is, the circuit can be configured to drive one, two or three or more LEDs, depending on the desired function and use of the device.

Two diodes D15 and D2 used to bypass any noise generated by the microprocessor in the vicinity of the microprocessor U2.
0 is shown. The speaker SPK1 is the element 34 shown in FIG. The watch crystal XTAL1 provides an 8 kHz clock signal to the microprocessor U2.
Capacitors C8 and C9 are part of the clock circuit.

In order to provide the function of button 22 in various embodiments, there is a switch S1 in the immediate vicinity of the clock circuit which activates the device. Switch S1 has power cells V1, V2 and V3 (at a potential of 1.5 V each) and a resistor 14, and a resistor 12 and a transistor Q1 to allow power to be supplied to the array of LEDs D8-D18. Is coupled to a power supply circuit including a switched analog power circuit having 13.

With reference to FIG. 14, another version of the circuitry invention that can be used to provide yet another embodiment of the handheld device of the present invention is shown in FIG. It includes a commercially available type Z86X08 good microprocessor. That is, as explained above, the auxiliary data encoded on the alternating horizontal lines are effectively present at only half the scanning speed, so that the data at the horizontal retrace signal and half its frequency, respectively, are likewise. The 8 kHz and 16 kHz signals (more precisely 15.635 kHz and 7.8175 kHz) that make up the signal are provided. These signals are VEILA and V provided as inputs to microprocessor U2.
Represented as EIL REF. Therefore, operational amplifiers U1A, U1B, U1C and U1D provide amplification, filtering, frequency shaping and discrimination and the same function of the buffer circuit described in FIG. A microprocessor clocked at 8 kHz by the crystal X1 decodes the data provided by the composite video signal, stores it in internal RAM or DRAM, and circuit components that are good for a 16 character 2 line display as shown. LCD 44 shown as LCD1
To drive. It could alternatively be, for example, a 12 character by 3 line display, or any other format suitable for the display message to be represented on the surface of the device.

The power to the circuit is provided by the two cells BT1 and BT2 at 3V potential to the circuit containing Q2 which not only provides the main power but also the auxiliary power, the latter being
Even if the display is not running, it can be handed over to the microprocessor to maintain its continuous operation, such as for date and time storage, and can be collectively referred to as the battery 22. Switch S1 is provided to perform the function of power button 38 in various embodiments (as shown in FIG. 6),
And to give power to LCD1 when pressed, and other switching functions are LC
Provided by switch S2 controlling scrolling of D44, and switch S
2 is activated by the scroll button 40 shown in FIG. 10B. Similarly,
Switch S3 provides a date function that can be activated by the expiration button 42 shown in FIG. 10B. These signals control the inputs to operational amplifiers U3A and U3D, respectively, and they are provided as inputs to the operational amplifier and also to LCD1. The clear switch will clear the date when operated as described in the close above, and the scroll switch will prompt the user.
Causes a message to be traversed across the LCD 44, such as Operational amplifiers U3C and U3B provide useful voltages according to the connections shown.

The illustrated circuit embodiment is a method of producing a composite video signal containing video program material and control data, and displaying the signal on a television and decoding such control data for auxiliary use. And the method comprises modulating at least one video field within a viewing area of a television in a manner such that the modulation is substantially invisible to a television viewer, thereby Creating a video subcarrier of the signal containing the data (as shown to be detectable at an 8 kHz rate) and detecting the component to recover the data for auxiliary use. When using a handheld device according to the present invention, intensity modulation is particularly useful for that purpose, but chrominance modulation can instead be employed to comply with Brownton. Moreover, the improvements in modulation described by Ciardullo can be used as well. Various alternative modulation (and corresponding modulation) schemes are available (including amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), modified frequency shift keying (MFSK), and phase shift keying (PSK)). Can be used as an alternative (though not limited). And while a substantial 8 kHz data-carrying submodulation is half the NTSC horizontal scan rate, other submodulation techniques are other multiples or submultiples or subdivisions that are another function of horizontal scan (horizontal retrace) speed. It can be used at other periodic rates.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of the circuit configuration of yet another possible embodiment of an interactive handheld device designated 12F, which is in accordance with FIG. 14 or FIG.
And to decode the auxiliary data, and to provide the optical signal as above,
Or preferably there is shown a discriminator and microprocessor circuit 50 receiving a composite video signal by photosensor 30 for driving LCD 44 in accordance with the description above. Thus, it includes an update or start button 22, as with the sports device 12S. In addition, FM receiver 62 and associated antenna 64
Are provided as surface mount modules that are added to the device's printed circuit board. FM receiver 62 and associated antenna 64 are of a commercially available design suitable for being powered by a battery 22 or cell (not shown) provided according to the previous description of various embodiments. You can The control button 66 is
Depending on whether the update button 56 has been pressed, the FM receiver 62 may be configured to send an FM modulation signal to the photosensor 30 or the discriminator and microprocessor circuit 60 which may be configured to respond accordingly to the FM receiver 62. The operation can be started arbitrarily. The FM receiver 62 may instead be an RF antenna of any type, ie size, according to the invention, so that discrimination occurs at the decoder, and the result is sent via RF to the handheld device 12.

The handheld device 12F may be a sports device that operates separately according to the version 12S described in connection with FIG. 13, but the addition of the FM receiver 62 adds to the new device other sports stadiums and video signals are not available. Gives the ability to be used at the venue. Thus, the device 12 can receive either optical signals or electrical signals. In the case of the sports device according to FIG. 13, the user can receive statistics about the player depicted on the device as described above or about the player standing at bat. According to a preferred method of using device 12F, the same ancillary information that would be transmitted over a television broadcast to be received at display device 10 is displayed at display device 10 as a composite video signal, Besides, it is transmitted by a low power FM signal in the FM broadcast band of 88-108 MHz. For this purpose, FM receiver 62 can be pretuned to the appropriate frequency for such low power signals. The FM signal can include better statistics, for example when the batter comes to bat, so that holders of the new device 12F can update their device when their favorite batter comes to bat. .

The handheld device 12 is used for various sports events, entertainment programs, competitions, museums,
The holder of the device in front of the receiver display, which travels and carries auxiliary data therefor, may not be able to conveniently use them, but the location where the device will be used may be low power FM or other Can be used in a guided event that will allow the FM signal. Other commercially important uses of the device of Figure 14 can be made similar to the method using the previously described version.
Similarly, the device of the present invention may be adapted to receive an AM signal, or an auxiliary light signal such as IR (infrared) light different from the composite video signal.

Similarly, the handheld device 12 of the present invention is a "card" sized PDA.
s, or cell phone, or any other convenient handheld size, and whether in the form of a lacing device, gives the realism or a facsimile representation or use of such a device. In order to imitate other objects, vehicles, celebrities, or household devices, personal or business use, so that the handheld device suggests to the user how to use it, or gives the user a special feeling. Communicate, affectiveness, personality or outdoors, activities, sports, entertainment, or other use of the device it represents. For example, in a game where some or all of the information content useful in the game can be provided by ancillary data, the authenticity or hand-held of the present invention configured to provide a facsimile representation or use of such a device. The device may provide a player of the game with an enhanced sense of independence of playing, joining, or playing the game. The above are merely examples of the many possibilities.

When used in a system that derives from encoded data that includes means for producing a video signal that is modulated by auxiliary data, such as by providing commercially sponsored television programming that includes auxiliary data. As such, the new handheld devices of the present invention provide ancillary data transmitted with normal programming content that they may be distributed to viewers and may include advertisements, promotions and other sponsored transmissions. When used by viewers to receive, this new system and device has particular impact on television response, advertising and promotion, especially as it provides the following commercially advantageous results: To have.

The method for card redemption is described in the optically entered card content, however, such a method could be employed with other cards that have a coupon redemption request. Electronic coupon cards supporting cards and methods for redemption include: That is, 1. 3.) An LCD or other human readable method of displaying data. 2. ) An on-board calculation that arranges the logic defined below. 3. ) How to enter "electronic coupon" information on the card. 4. ) A button or other method (like a touch screen) to arrange through the coupons entered on the card. 5. ) A button or other method (such as a touch screen) that puts the card into "redemption" mode. 6. ) Laser detection hardware below.

Currently, most POS systems use computerized cash registers coupled to inventory management software and bar code scanning hardware.
One example of a method of using existing hardware and software located on an electronic coupon card and electronic coupon redemption POS is described in the steps below. That is, 1. ) The coupon data is encoded in a video signal, for example a television signal. The encoded data will also include an additional document that describes the coupon with the numeric code to be entered at the POS. 2. The user points the multipurpose card at the television screen when the television signal containing the coupon data is on air. The electronic coupon data is then captured by the card by optically receiving the data presented on the display. Coupon data could also be captured by methods other than optical detection, including, but not limited to, radio frequency (RF) or hardwire electronic data transfer. 3. After capturing the electronic coupon data, the user can then view the coupon information such as request, expiry date, valid POS location, etc. on the LCD of the card. (The other numeric codes used in the following steps used for identification and safety purposes are not available for viewing by the user at this time). 4. When the user wishes to redeem the electronic coupon, the card is shipped to the POS and the user buys the desired item or otherwise follows the coupon provider's request. 5. At checkout, the cashier receives the card and looks at the data on the LCD screen and uses the card's sucrose function (normal button) to place the correct coupon. 6. The Treasurer then presses the required "Redemption" button on the card. The treasurer then needs about 1 minute to complete steps 7 and 8 below. Requiring this button to be pressed reduces the likelihood that the coupon will be redeemed by chance through bright ambient light. 7. When the correct coupon is placed, the card is held with the LCD screen facing towards the cashier and the back of the card towards the bar code scanner located near the cashier. Barcode scanners are the same scanners used for purchases and traditional paper coupon redemption. 8. When the scanning laser light is detected by the card, the card beeps and the numeric code described in step # 1 is displayed on the LCD screen. Moreover, another code representing the serial number of the card is also displayed. The second digit displayed can also be a special code generated as a combination of downloaded numeric values (step # 1) and a hidden internal serial number (for the card). The second digit can be used to increase the security of the transaction as it can be generated by various standard cryptographic methods and will uniquely identify the card and transaction but will not be easily duplicated. Let's do it. 9. The treasurer then takes 30 seconds to enter the numeric code alone or both the numeric code and the serial number of the card (for greater security). After 30 seconds, the card will automatically delete the coupon. Coupons can also be quickly erased by pressing the "Redeem" or "Scroll" keys for 30 seconds. (The scroll key is used to place a large number of coupons and redeem them efficiently, as described below). 10. ) If additional coupons are to be redeemed at the same time, the above steps are completed for the first coupon. The additional coupons are redeemed by the treasurer by repeating steps 5-9 above.

In an alternative embodiment, steps 8, 9 and 10 are replaced by the following steps. That is, 8 '. When a scanning laser light is detected by the card, the card beeps and displays a numeric code or, alternatively, a numeric message on the LCD screen. In addition, another code representing the serial number of the card is also displayed. The second digit displayed can also be a special code generated as a combination of downloaded numerical values (step # 1) and a hidden internal serial number (for the card). . The second digit can be generated by a variety of standard cryptographic methods and can be used to increase the security of the transaction as it uniquely identifies the card and transaction but will not be easily duplicated. Let's do it.

[0149]   9 '. ) Treasurer sees a numeric code or alphanumeric message and is triggered         Card to win a prize or receive a special value or discount.         It is possible to determine whether or not the card is a preselected card to be played. If car         If Do warns the treasurer that the prize has been won, the treasurer will         Verify that the card did not change or was not changed         In order to do so, the second number is arbitrarily entered in the database (step # 2).         Freebies also have to redeem or scroll for 30 seconds         Can be erased quickly. (The scroll keys are         Used to place and redeem free gifts efficiently).

The following describes how detection of laser scanning across the card is accomplished. That is, almost all barcode scanning devices use either a helium neon (HeNe) or diode type red laser. The scanner is at 832.8 nanometer (nm) wavelength for HeNe or 6 for diode lasers.
It emits extremely bright light at a wavelength of 40 nm. The wavelength spread for the laser is very small, which gives a narrow optical filter so that the non-laser ambient light is filtered out. A simple electronic / optical circuit is shown in FIG. 17 and can be used to detect the signal.

As shown in FIG. 17, the electronic / optical circuit 100 includes an optical filter 1
20a and 120b, load resistor 140, microprocessor trigger 160
, And a phototransistor 180.

Optical filters 120a and 120b are used to prevent the card from being triggered by ambient light, such as the bright morning sun. Optical filter 120a is a neutral density type that reduces the intensity of light, and optical filter 120b is a red bandpass type.

A photodetector is needed to detect the laser light. This detector may be a phototransistor 180, since only an ON / OFF signal is required. The phototransistor 180 has a small resistive load therein, represented by the load resistor 140, so that the phototransistor 180 is less sensitive to light. Load resistance 140
Thus reduce unwanted triggering.

The output of the electronic / optical circuit 100 is provided to the microprocessor on a card where the output triggers a beep or the like, as described in the steps above.

In view of the above description of the invention and actual embodiments it will be seen that the various objects of the invention are achieved and other advantages obtained. In order to make the best use of the present invention in its various embodiments and with its various modifications, the embodiments and embodiments are thus suitable for practical use as considered by those skilled in the art, and the principles of the present invention. Selected and described to best explain the practical application.

Various changes may be made in the structure and method described and illustrated herein without departing from the scope of the present invention, so that all that is contained in the above description is set forth in the accompanying drawings. It should be construed as illustrative rather than limiting.

The scope and scope of the present invention should not be limited to any of the above exemplary embodiments,
It should be defined only in accordance with the appended claims of the present application and their equivalents.

In this system, useful systems and handheld devices not only include sponsors of programs, events, or other sponsored transmissions for these purposes, but also various businesses, services, and It can be distributed by a variety of business entity entities that may include organizations that have commercial relationships with sponsors. Viewer use of the new device of the present invention thus provides commercially advantageous results for television advertising, promotions and other sponsored transmissions, where the new systems and devices and their use are Is effective. Attracting viewers' attention to advertisements, promotions and other sponsored transmissions; effectively increasing awareness and memory of messages and products; viewing after viewing sponsored transmissions Inviting people to respond and take action: Differentiate from the sponsor's products or services and those of their competitors; Inspire viewers to want to watch advertising, promotions and transmissions Providing a new, cost-effective, brand-effective and entertaining medium that enhances advertising, promotion and other transmissions; -Special for advertising, promotion and transmission Make the event meaningful; build traffic to the location of the business or point of sale system associated with the sponsor of advertising, promotions and other transmissions And-increasing customer patent royalties to sponsors for advertising, promotion and transmission, -increasing viewers' passion for advertising, promotion and transmission, -sponsorship and advertising, or sales. Develop viewers' memory of the promotional content; -enhance the sales volume resulting from advertising, promotion and transmission sponsorships-provide continued value for sponsored advertising, promotions and transmissions,- Providing enhanced viewer / viewer enthusiasm for sporting or racing events; providing viewers of television programming with the opportunity to meaningfully interact with programming content and with advertising promotion and transmission; Enhancing the goodwill of the viewer regarding advertising, promotion and transmission, about interactive use of the device To bring about the development of other opportunities.

In view of the above description of the invention and actual embodiments it will be seen that the various objects of the invention are achieved and other advantages obtained. In order to make the best use of the present invention in various examples, and with various modifications, as the embodiments and examples are suitable for practical use by those skilled in the art, Selected and described to best explain its practical application.

Without departing from the scope of the present invention, various modifications may be made to the structures and methods described and illustrated herein, and therefore all that is included in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The above facts should be construed as illustrative rather than limiting.

The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited to any of the above example embodiments, but rather should be defined only by the claims and their equivalents.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view that schematically illustrates the use of any of the various embodiments of the interactive card according to and embodying the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective exterior view of a first embodiment of an interactive card in accordance with and embodying the present invention.

[Figure 3]   FIG. 6 is an external view of a second embodiment of the interactive card of the present invention.

[Figure 4]   FIG. 6 is a perspective exterior view of another embodiment of the interactive card of the present invention.

5 is a perspective view of internal features of the interactive device of FIG. 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 4 showing the interactive card of the present invention.

[Figure 6]   FIG. 6 is a perspective exterior view of another embodiment of the interactive card of the present invention.

7 is a perspective view of internal features of the interactive device of FIG. 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 6 showing the interactive card of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a circuit configuration that can be used to provide various embodiments with obvious circuit features in this figure.

[Figure 9]   FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of another circuit configuration that can be used to provide various other embodiments.

FIG. 10A is an exterior view of one surface of yet another embodiment of an interactive card, referred to as a camera card of the present invention, as viewed from the opposite side of the user, showing the camera of the card in use. Shows a textured surface. FIG. 10B is a reverse side view of the camera card of FIG. 10A, showing the opposite surface of the card on which the user display and controls are provided.

FIG. 11A is an exterior view of another embodiment of an interactive card or device of the present invention, showing the surface of a card that is a camera mimic as in FIG. 10A, and the card and device being a handheld camera. Imitates the form of and is also called a camera card. 11C is a view of the opposite side of the camera card of FIG. 11A, showing the opposite surface of the card on which the user display and controls are provided.

FIG. 12 is an exterior view of the camera card embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11, showing how the camera card is used, as by view through the viewfinder of the card.

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of an interactive card of the present invention called a sports card. FIG. 13B is a front view of yet another embodiment of the interactive card of the present invention called a sports card.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of another circuit configuration that can be used to provide various other embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of another circuit configuration that can be used to provide various other embodiments.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of another circuit configuration that can be used to provide various other embodiments.

FIG. 17 is an electronic / optical signal detection circuit.

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] April 10, 2002 (2002.4.10)

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0100

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

FIG. 12 shows the front side of the racing card 12R, ie the opposite side of the user, with the user looking through the viewfinder 49, with the user preparing to receive the composite video signal by the card 12R. By looking, the card 12R is aimed at the display device 10. The racing card 12R is shown in FIG. 11A.
And with control and display features similar to those illustrated in FIG. 11B.

[Procedure Amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] Fig. 11

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

FIG. 11A is an exterior view of another embodiment of an interactive card or device of the present invention, showing the surface of a card that is a camera mimic as in FIG. 10A, and the card and device being a handheld camera. Imitates the form of and is also called a camera card. Figure 11 B is a diagram of a camera card opposite surface of FIG. 11A, showing the opposite side surfaces of the card control with user display is provided thereon.

[Procedure 3]

[Document name to be corrected] Drawing

[Name of item to be corrected] Fig. 11

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

FIG. 11

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be corrected] Drawing

[Name of item to be corrected] Fig. 12

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

[Fig. 12]

[Procedure Amendment 5]

[Document name to be corrected] Drawing

[Name of item to be corrected] Fig. 13

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

[Fig. 13]

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] June 20, 2002 (2002.6.20)

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be corrected] Drawing

[Name of item to be corrected] Fig. 12

[Correction method] Delete

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be corrected] Drawing

[Name of item to be corrected] Fig. 12

[Correction method] Added

[Contents of correction]

[Fig. 12]

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) H04N 7/081 (31) Priority claim number 60 / 195,542 (32) Priority date April 7, 2000 Date (April 4, 2000) (33) Priority claiming country United States (US) (31) Priority claim number 60 / 207,460 (32) Priority date May 25, 2000 (May 25, 2000) (33) Priority claiming country United States (US) (81) Designated country EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL , PT, SE), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, KE, LS, MW, MZ, SD, SL, SZ, T Z, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AE, AG, AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, BZ, CA, CH, CN, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DK, DM, DZ, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN , IS, JP, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MA, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, MZ, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, TZ, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZA, ZW (72) Invention With Wizards, James, Gee. United States, Missouri 63017, Chesterfield, Crumpton Court 1921 F Term (Reference) 5C063 AA01 AB05 AC01 DA07

Claims (40)

[Claims] 1. A system for benefiting from auxiliary data in a video signal by the use of a handheld device responsive to the auxiliary data, wherein the auxiliary signal is received by the handheld device by modulating the video signal to carry the auxiliary data. Providing a means for responding to the user, determining that the video signal contains auxiliary data, and performing the step of providing the benefit obtained by receiving the auxiliary data. 2. A method of determining that a video signal includes auxiliary data is the method of receiving a video signal in a decoding box and causing the decoding box to electronically determine whether the video signal includes auxiliary data. The system of claim 1, wherein the determination is made by transferring auxiliary data from the decoding box to the handheld device. 3. A method of determining that a video signal includes auxiliary data includes receiving the video signal at a handheld device and causing the handheld device to electronically determine whether the video signal includes auxiliary data. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the decoding box receives the video signal via hardwire or optical means. 5. The system according to claim 2, wherein the decoding box is a sleeve, a cradle, a remote control, or a docking station. 6. In a system using a handheld device that benefits by generating a composite video signal carrying auxiliary data, means for receiving the composite video signal, and whether auxiliary data is present in the composite video signal. Means for determining whether or not, and if present, means for processing auxiliary data, and if data is present, the user of the handheld device will have a tangible benefit depending on the content of the encoded data. Means for providing an indication that auxiliary data is present. 7. The system of claim 6, further comprising means for storing auxiliary data on the handheld device and displaying at least a portion of the auxiliary data as the indicia. 8. The system of claim 6, wherein the handheld device further comprises means for transferring at least some of the auxiliary data or composite video signal to the computer. 9. The system of claim 6, wherein the auxiliary data is provided at a rate that is a function of the normal horizontal blanking frequency of the display displaying normal program content. 10. The means for electronically determining whether ancillary data is present in a composite video signal is provided by a signal provided at a normal horizontal retrace frequency and a function of the normal horizontal retrace frequency. 10. The system of claim 9, comprising a handheld device discriminating circuit responsive to both signals and discriminating between the signals in response to the relative amplitude of each signal. 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the discriminator utilizes a computer to discriminate between signals that typically have the usual characteristics of ancillary data and composite video signals. 12. The means for receiving ancillary data at a handheld device comprises photosensor circuit means for amplifying and adjusting the output of a photosensor for application to a discrimination circuit. The system described in. 13. The handheld device, if unable to receive the composite video signal,
7. The system of claim 6, further comprising an FM receiver that receives an FM transmission that provides the same content as the composite video signal. 14. The handheld device, if unable to receive the composite video signal,
14. The system of claim 13, further comprising means for selectively initiating operation of the FM receiver. 15. The system of claim 6, wherein the means for providing indicia of ancillary data comprises at least one display on a handheld device. 16. The system of claim 6, wherein the handheld device comprises a device approximately the size of a credit card or wallet. 17. The system of claim 6, wherein the handheld device comprises a device approximately the size of a mobile phone or PDA. 18. The system of claim 6, wherein the display also comprises any number of emissive display devices. 19. The system of claim 6, wherein the display comprises an alphanumeric display visible on the surface of the handheld device. 20. The means for providing an indication that encoded data is present,
7. The system of claim 6, comprising at least one handheld device audio transducer. 21. The system of claim 6, wherein the handheld device further comprises aiming light that lights up to notify the user that a video signal has been received. 22. The system of claim 6, wherein the handheld device further comprises selectively actuatable actuation control for actuating the operation of the handheld device. 23. The system of claim 6, wherein the handheld device further comprises a selectably operable reset control that resets the handheld device for further operation. 24. In a system that benefits from auxiliary data in a video signal by the use of a handheld device responsive to the auxiliary data, the video signal is modulated, and the display device conveys the auxiliary data to the location of the user. Performing steps that receive a video signal at a handheld device, determine whether the video signal contains auxiliary data, and provide the user with the benefits resulting from electronically determining that the video signal contains auxiliary data. A system characterized by: 25. The method of claim 24, further comprising the step of transferring the auxiliary data to the computer or a device such as a computer via the transfer interface after determining whether the video signal includes the auxiliary data. The system described. 26. The method further comprising the step of transferring the auxiliary data to a computer or device such as a computer via a transfer interface prior to determining whether the video signal includes the auxiliary data. 24. The system according to 24. 27. The method of modulating auxiliary data comprises the vertical blanking interval (V
System according to claim 24, characterized in that it utilizes BI), luminance / chrominance modulation, signal permutation and / or separation signals. 28. Auxiliary data, which brings information of special importance and special value related to the sponsor to the viewer of the television, which is of special importance and value with respect to the sponsor, is transmitted on the television together with the normally available television program, and the auxiliary data is transmitted. An interactive device that distributes a selectively receptive handheld interactive device for use by television viewers and that selectively retains and decodes ancillary data that can retain the indication that information has been received. It provides incentives to the viewers who are using the information by providing special value, and at the redemption site, the user presents an interactive device to redeem the special value information to the user. Featuring video interactive advertising and promotional methods. 29. Ancillary data is transmitted on television with normally available television programs related to sports and other special events, the ancillary data being associated with the sponsor and having special significance and speciality with respect to the sponsor. It provides valuable information to television viewers and provides them with the means to use handheld interactive devices at events that can selectively receive ancillary data. Gives viewers who use an interactive device that selectively receives and decodes ancillary data that can retain the indication that it has been received, incentives by providing information of special value, and using the interactive device Sports event characterized by being used to display the information gained from the ancillary data for the benefit of the individual. The method of interactive advertising and promotion related to other special events. 30. Ancillary data is transmitted on television with normally available television programs related to sports and other special events, the ancillary data being associated with a sponsor and at least one event participant or sponsor. To provide TV viewers with information of special importance and special value about, and to provide a means of engaging handheld interactive devices at events with selective reception of ancillary data. Incentives by providing information of special value to viewers who use interactive devices that selectively receive and decode ancillary data that can be provided to the viewer and retain an indication that the information has been received. Using and using interactive devices to display information gained by ancillary data for the benefit of the user Interactive advertising and methods of sales promotion related sports and features, race, or other special events. 31. A method of using ancillary data, if present, along with a television program that a television viewer can normally watch, wherein the ancillary data can accompany the television program without the viewer being aware of it. By displaying a television program on the display device, using the handheld device to receive an optical signal from the display device, and the optical signal optically sensing the optical signal with the handheld device including auxiliary data, if present. For filtering and amplifying the optical signal inside the handheld device and using discrimination circuit inside the handheld device to determine whether auxiliary data is present in the amplified optical signal for further use in the handheld device Providing the ancillary data to the. 32. The method according to claim 31, further comprising the step of providing the auxiliary data to the microprocessor of the handheld device and displaying the information content of the auxiliary data on the display of the handheld device according to the operation of the microprocessor. How to use the auxiliary data provided. 33. The method of using auxiliary data of claim 31, wherein the display is an alphanumeric display or one or more light emitting display devices. 34. A method of using ancillary data, if ancillary data is present, along with a television program that a television viewer can normally watch, wherein the ancillary data can accompany the television program without the viewer's knowledge. A decoder box is used to receive a modulated video signal from a display device, where the modulated video signal, if present, contains auxiliary data, filters and amplifies the optical signal inside the decoder box, and discriminating circuits inside the decoder box. Use
Determining whether the auxiliary data is present in the amplified optical signal and providing the auxiliary data for further use in a handheld device. 35. A method for watching a website of an internet, comprising the step of producing a video signal encoded with ancillary data by a user using a handheld device at his or her location, the method for receiving a video signal. Means are provided on the handheld device to provide the user with the handheld device to receive the auxiliary data, transfer the auxiliary data from the handheld device to the computer through the connection, and utilize the auxiliary data on the computer. How to browse internet websites characterized by: 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the computer use of the auxiliary data is configured by executing a computer program on the computer. 37. The method of claim 35, wherein the computer use of the ancillary data is to locate an internet website from the indicia of the ancillary data. 38. A method of providing a better advertising opportunity in a cinema by a movie enthusiast by using a handheld device, wherein the movie enthusiast enters a movie theater and receives auxiliary data at the handheld device. , Storing the response to the auxiliary data received by the movie lover and processing the response. 39. A multi-purpose electronic card for redeeming an electronic coupon and electronic value, comprising: a microprocessor embedded in the card; a memory electronically connected to the microprocessor; and the microprocessor and the memory. A visually connected display, a user interaction device electronically connected to the microprocessor, the memory and the visual display, and a conventional barcode scanner electronically coupled to the microprocessor and the memory. An electronic coupon and a multipurpose electronic card for reimbursement of electronic value, comprising: a photodetector capable of detecting light from the photodetector; and laser detection triggering means electronically coupled to the photodetector. 40. An electronic coupon and a method for redeeming an electronic value, which provides a multi-purpose electronic card having a visual display means and a photodetector, wherein the multi-purpose electronic card is directed to a video display, and the video display is performed by the multi-purpose electronic card. Receiving electronic value data from the, save the electronic value data in the multi-purpose electronic card, send the multi-purpose electronic card to a store having a computer system, to visually see the electronic value data of the visual display means, A method of redeeming an electronic coupon and an electronic value, comprising the steps of simultaneously scanning a photodetector with an optical scanner and inputting the electronic value data to the computer system at the store.