GB2377289A

GB2377289A - Digital product and message delivery

Info

Publication number: GB2377289A
Application number: GB0200906A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Elaine Sturgess; Maria Helena Hirst
Original assignee: MESSAGEBOXX COMM Ltd
Current assignee: MESSAGEBOXX COMM Ltd
Priority date: 2001-01-16
Filing date: 2002-01-15
Publication date: 2003-01-08
Also published as: GB0101139D0; WO2002057970A2; GB0200906D0

Abstract

A method for the generation and distribution of a decorative digital container comprising;<BR> (a) graphical (in static or animated form) and textual elements combined to form the decorative container, (b) one or several of a plurality of digital assets including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, games, books, digital art to be placed within the decorative digital container; (c) storing in a storage medium or media of the component parts of (a) and (b) either in a local or a remote storage facility; (d) assembling of the component parts of (a) and (b) from the storage medium or media to form a unit; (e) distribution of the unit over a network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the user, such that the unit may be collected from a specific network location and opened by the recipient/s in a manner reminiscent of a gift.

Description

Improvements to Digital Product and Message Delivery Technical Field

The current invention concerns improvements relating to digital product delivery and digital message 5 enhancements and more particularly to various aspects of creating, packaging and delivering digital messages and products using digital delivery networks such as the internet, wireless, digital TV and the like.

Background to the Invention

10 There are known methods of delivering digital products and messages using textual, audio and visual content. These include standard e-mail delivery services where text based documents and communications are transferred over digital networks; streaming and downloading of audio and visual digital products using various systems structures; and the delivery of greetings using a combination of graphics and user input messages, which may or may not benefit additionally from the attachment of 15 audio files to enhance the message delivered. Additionally, particularly in the music sector, a number of major projects are underway to encourage the legitimate download of paid for music by consumers.

This market and the wider digital product sector would benefit from a system that enhances the marketability of products by positioning them for the gift market; however there is currently no method 20 of placing such a digital product in a decorative container in order to package and deliver the product to a third party in a wrapped format reminiscent of a gift.

Similarly, such a system would be enhanced by the ability to match the requirements of the user against a database of a plurality of digital assets such as music, film, books, games, JV products, 25 animated art and the like. This would be beneficial both as a system for matching digital products where the user is seeking to purchase in a gift context and for promoting such digital products by utilizing these products within a messaging context. There are known systems and services for matching products to categories of message, most particularly where the message is greeting related.

In the current services, the greetings are separated into categories and sub categories where the 30 consumer is required to drill down through the categories and sub-categories in order to find a graphical or animated option that might fulfill their message needs. In addition, this service is offered for music digital products, again based on a drill own hierarchical menu system. Further there are known systems for matching keywords and phrases with a textual item (though not necessarily applied to the specific textual content of, by way of example, a lyric or film score), whereby a matching process 35 is used to rank the relevance of such textual item to the requirement of a user; however these processes of matching do not cater specifically for the essential element of emotion that is attached to the sending of a message and that may be used to more effectively to filter a plurality of digital products, images, audio and moving image files with a similar emotive content, to the requirements of the user, ensuring that the filtering process accommodates both the actual textual keywords and 40 keywords generated to represent the values of the emotion or style of message to be conveyed by the message, whether the message is selected from a menu by the user or where the user defines the

- content of their own message. There are also known uses of so called music and film clips, whereby a segment of a digital asset is used in the general promotion of the full version of the digital asset or for other marketing purposes. However, these clips are selected for their value in being a short 45 promotional tool representative of the whole or in relation to a third party product, as opposed to a segment taken from the whole as being a visual, audio or textual representative of a specific message, useable in its own right.

Summary of The Invention

50 The present invention is embodied in a digital service that generates a decorative digital container wherein a digital product can be placed to present in a style reminiscent of a gift then to be distributed over a network, hereinafter referred to as a MessageBoxx. The MessageBoxx may be used to deliver a digital product as a gift, or as a method of enhanced communication. In the case of the former, a full version of a digital asset is enclosed within a MessageBoxx for delivery over a network to a recipient in 55 a form reminiscent of a gift, the visual and audio nature of which may be enhanced through the addition of matching textual, visual or audio aspects relating to content of the gift itself. This may also benefit from the additional component of a message to be delivered alongside the gift, also with correspondingly matched textual, visual or audio aspects. In the case of the latter, the message being sent is supported by, a, or a plurality of, corresponding segments of digital assets, where the message 60 conveyed by the textual, audio or visual content of said segments of digital assets can be used to compliment and enhance the content of the user's message.

In a further embodiment, there is provided a background where the textual, audio or visual content of

the background can be used to compliment and enhance the content of the user's gift and or

65 message. in yet a further development, the decorative container and/or background can be enhanced

with use of textual content from the digital assess or segmenVs of digital assets where such textual content is used to reinforce the message and emotion or style. As a related embodiment, such textual content may additionally be translated into a form consistent with that used in text messaging or shorthand of text messaging as typically used on a wireless network.

The MessageBoxx method can be further enhanced by a matching process that analyses keywords and emotions from the choices and/or specific input from the user in the form of message and style information. This results in the use of tags that are used to search a database of a plurality of media assets (audio, text, static and moving visual in the form of music, film, TV, books, games and other like 75 products); filtering out appropriate solutions for the message and then further employing emotional filtering to best match the user's needs for style.

Further, the media assess selected as relevant to the content and tone of the user's message are matched with a database of graphics, both static and animated, textual and audio content, that can be 80 incorporated into the decorative style of the MessageBoxx to enhance the relevance of the MessageBoxx style and content to match the needs of the user.

In further embodiments, each MessageBoxx may be enhanced by the inclusion of a personal message as defined by the user, such message to be incorporated within the digital container and 85 revealed upon the recipienVs opening of the MessageBoxx.

Further, the service will provide functionality for the user to amend and adapt the plurality of elements that constitute a MessageBoxx to ensure the content and design match their needs to their satisfaction. Yet further, a user can create their own MessageBoxx, selecting each of a plurality of 90 component parts using one of a plurality of templates, the specified component parts being then generated by the method to create the MessageBoxx for distribution. Each of these customization options then further to be offered in further embodiments as an off-line service, whereby adjustments and creation of the MessageBoxxes are made off-line and then distributed once the user has resumed on line and provided the relevant information.

In another embodiment the recipient may be offered a network link to a menu of responses appropriate to the MessageBoxx they have received, thereby providing the recipient with an appropriate way of replying to the original communication using the method itself.

100 Further the user may be offered an interface with a print on demand facility, whereby the design components of the method are transferred in digital form to the print facility. The design components then printed onto a paper format box that may then be used as a decorative container consistent in style with the digital method, where a physical product can be contained therein.

105 Yet further the distribution component of the method may be enhanced to allow the distribution of the MessageBoxx as an integral part of an existing communication process such as an e-mail, wireless message or other known network communication type. Alternatively the distribution component of the method may result in the MessageBoxx forming an attachment to an existing communication process such as an e-mail, wireless message or other known network communication type.

Description of Drawings

The foregoing and following detailed description of the present invention may be more fully understood

by reference to the accompanying drawings, comprising the following: FIG. 1 represents a diagram of the steps to be taken in generating an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.2 is a screen diagram of one aspect of the method, demonstrating one of the component parts of 120 the various embodiments of the present invention, whereby a message menu and input form are provided to the user.

/ FIG.3 is a screen diagram of one aspect of the method, demonstrating a further component part of the various embodiments of the present invention, whereby a user is offered a menu of emotions or styles.

FIG.4 is a screen diagram of one aspect of the method, demonstrating a further component part of the various embodiments of the present invention, whereby the user is offered a menu and sub-menu of digital asset categories.

130 Fl(;.5 is a screen diagram of one aspect of the method, demonstrating the method by which a number of component parts of the various embodiments of the present invention are drawn together and presented as options.

FIG.6 is a screenshot of a page demonstrating a part of the method for the present invention, whereby 135 the various embodiments are personalized for the user.

FIG.7 to FIG.23 are drawings that represent an animated sequence of events in which a MessageBo is delivered to a recipient in rotating cube format and then opened by the recipient in a manner reminiscent of a gift, in accordance with the method of the present invention.

FIG.24 to FIG.26 are drawings that represent an animated sequence that demonstrate enhancements to the method as detailed in various embodiments of the present invention whereby related background images and textual content are used to enhance the method.

145 FIG.27 is a diagram of a process required for an enhancement to the method as detailed for a specific enhancement to the present invention whereby a digital design process for a MessageBow is interfaced with a print on demand facility.

As a foreword to the detailed description, it should be noted that the examples used within the

150 descriptions of the various embodiments and the diagrams thereto, are representative only and that

the various components of the method may be actioned in a number of alternative ways and in alternatives forms that remain consistent with the method of the present invention.

Detailed Description

155 In a first embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method for the generation and distribution of a decorative digital container comprising; (a) graphical (in static or animated form) and textual elements combined to form the decorative container; (b) one or several of a plurality of digital assets including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, games, 160 books, digital art to be placed within the decorative digital container;

(c) storing in a storage medium or media of the component parts of (a) and (b) either in a local or a remote storage facility; (d) assembling of the component parts of (a) and (b) from the storage medium or media to form a unit hereinafter referred to as a MessageBoxx 165 (e) distribution of the MessageBoxx over a network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the user, such that the MessageBoxx may be collected from a specific network location and opened by the recipients in a manner reminiscent of a gift.

In this embodiment, the steps to creating a MessageBoxx are as shown below (as illustrated in FIG.1): 170 Step C: Select a Digital Product Category The user selects a category from a plurality of media assets in order to filter out suitably matched products to be identified for incorporation within a MessageBoxx. For example, music, film, TV, games, books and the like. FIG.4 175 Step D: Select a Digital Product Sub- Category In order to further filter the selection to the relevant requirements of the user, the user can optionally select from a plurality of subcategories from the major media category identified by Step C. For example if a user selects Film as a category at Step C, they may further narrow the filtering to comedy, musical, thriller etc or a plurality of other sub-categories FIG.4(1) before proceeding to Step F. Step E: Select a Specific Digital Asset or Asset Type As an alternative to Steps C and D, the user may opt to specify a particular media asset or assets; or specify a particular performer, then requiring to select a specific asset or assets from the portfolio of said performer.

At this point, the MessageBo oc service searches its database of relevant media assets to find matches in the appropriate media category and subcategory to the requirements of the user and presents a menu form the options available; or in the case of a specific performer request, a listing of the relevant performer assets; or in the case of a specific asset search, identifies whether said asset 190 resides within its database and corresponds with the relevant response. The results are presented to the user for review, with each media asset accompanied by a MessageBoxx graphical presentation.

Where a media asset has been selected from a third party location or service, the system generates just the optional MessageBoxx graphical representations in which to place the digital assess selected.

The user then proceeds through Steps F to H: Step F: Review MessageBoxx Options The user is presented with a list of match results identifying as appropriate to the media asset type, with accreditations such as media performer, media title, media owner FIG.5. The user can then 200 review the MessageBoxx that has been generated to contain the, or each, media asset.

Step G: Select a MessageBoxx Once the user has reviewed a, or the, MessageBo=/es, they may select one that meets their needs.

Once a MessageBoxx has been selected the user is automatically taken through to form pages that 205 allow the user to specify recipient details.

Step H: Detail Receiver Information and Send The user identifies their own personal details, their network address and then the names and network addresses of the recipienVs of the MessageBow. On activating the send command, an 210 acknowledgment is posted to the user and automatic electronic notifications of the despatch of the MessageBoxx are generated and sent to the recipient/s. The recipient is give a specific network location and link, from which they are able to collect their MessageBoxx. The MessageBoxx is then received an opened in a form reminiscent of a gift.

215 - In a further embodiment of the MessageBo=, the method of the MessageBoxx is to generate and distribute digital message enhanced with the use of related graphical and textual elements and matched with a relevant media asset (textual, audio, static or moving visual). This to be delivered contained within the decorative container presented in a 3dimensional animated form and opened by the receiver in a method reminiscent of a gift. Upon opening the MessageBoxx in this form, the digital 220 asset contained within may play as an enhancement to the message being delivered. In creating th MessageBoxx, the user will proceed through the series of steps described as in the first embodiment, but with two additional steps to accommodate the message constituent. The order in which the steps are taken is dependent on the chosen starting point of the user. The user may opt to start the process of generating this embodiment of the present invention with the selection or creation of a Message. In 225 which case, Steps A and B as identified below will precede Step C in the previous embodiment.

Alternatively, the user may elect to start the process of generating a MessageBoxx from the selection of a specific media asset. In which case the user will proceed through steps C and D or E before proceeding through Steps A and B. The process and its various user entry points is graphically represented in FIG. 1 Step A: Select or Create Message User selects from a predefined menu of Messages, which may be categories and submategorised for the convenience of the user, covering a broad range of everyday and event based or seasonal based messages, examples of which are shown at FIG. 2. Alternatively, the user is given the opportunity to 235 define their own message using an input field FIG.2(1).

Step B: Select Emotion or Style The user selects a style of delivery for the message, in the form of an emotion or other emotively related description, such as funny, romantic, wicked etc. as shown in FiG. 3.

240 The search process is then conducted as identified in the first embodiment and the user then proceeds through Steps F. G and H. In a further embodiment of the present invention, where the method of the MessageBoxx is to generate and distribute an enhanced digital message, the media asset to be contained within the 245 MessageBoxx as described in the previous embodiment, may take the form of a segment of a complete digital asset (hereinafter referred to as a digital clip). The digital clip is a segment of a full digital asset selected where its content conveys a particular message. Thus a segment of a digital asset, the content of which is highly relevant to a specific message can be delivered in a succinct and time efficient way. Thus, negating the need to use the full digital asset, whilst dually serving the 250 purpose of meeting the message needs of the user and promoting the full digital asset to both the user and the recipienVs on behalf of the media owner. By way of example, a segment of a Iyric may deliver a specific message within a clip of duration 35 seconds from a song for which the entire duration is in excess of 4 minutes. For examples of where a segment of a Iyric can be utilised in clip form, see the lyrics appended to TABLE A attached to this document. This principle applies to all genres of digital 255 assets as they pertain to the present invention, including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, books, games and the like. In this embodiment, the digital clip plays in its appropriate format as the MessageBoxx is opened by the recipient, thus enhancing the message.

A further embodiment of the present invention combines previous embodiments of the invention in one 260 method. In this embodiment, a full-length version of one, or several, digital assets may be identified by the user to be contained within the MessageBoxx and delivered in a format reminiscent of a gift. The same MessageBoxx would also include a digital clip to enhance a message to be conveyed to the recipient in conjunction with the delivery of the full-length digital assess.

265 In further embodiments, each of the preceding embodiments can be further enhanced with the introduction of a or a plurality of additional visual elements (textual, static graphics, animated or

otherwise moving images) that form a background to the MessageBoxx. FIG. 24. These images may

be generated as a result of a predefined creative process that matches the content of the images to the content and style of the message and matched digital assess.

In yet further embodiments, each of the preceding embodiments may be further enhanced by the introduction of related textual aspects used in full or in part within the decorative design of the

MessageBoxx container and/or incorporated within the background visual elements. These textual

aspects are held on the database in relation to the relevant asset and may be a feature of the asset 275 (e.g. a Iyric, a film clip script, a section from a book) or may have been generated to describe the content of the media asset (for example a game scene description, a description of a scene from a

movie). This element serves to further enhance the relevance and power of the message for the user.

See FIGS. 24 to 26 for an example where a textual aspect is represented by a section of music track Iyric to enhance the relevant customer defined message. FIG.24 shows the MessageBoxx against a

280 background, in accordance with a previous embodiment, and containing visual content of a landscape,

a windmill(1) and a flower(2). In FIG.25 the MessageBoxx has been opened and the digital asset within is shown to be music, represented by the graphical disc (1). The Iyric starts to appear in the background (2) as the asset is played In FIG. 26, the music is further through its playing time and

more of the Iyric appears. The Iyric contains the expression "like a flower turning towards the sung (1) 285 and it can be seen that the graphical representation of the flower (2) has been through an animated sequence to turn itself towards the graphical element of the Sun (3), that has emerged from the clouds in the background in a further animated sequence. Thus, the visual elements of the content have been

matched to the content of the digital asset.

290 In a related embodiment, the user may opt for the system to translate the textual elements of the media asset into the characters commonly used as shorthand and full variants of text messaging.

Thus, a MessageBoxx containing a section of Iyric from a music track, may have said Iyric presented in the characterization commonly use in text messaging whereby, for example, the word smile contained within the Iyric may be represented in the form:), as would commonly be used in a 295 shorthand version of text messaging as a representation of that word. This embodiment of the present invention is of particular relevance to the delivery of the MessageBoxx service over wireless networks.

Further, this translated version of the textual aspect may be used as a notification text message to the recipient/s designated by the user to receive the MessageBoxx over the wireless, or other forms of digital network, relevant to the recipienVs. Thus the receiving party/ies will receive a text message that 300 is a translation of a textual aspect such as a song Iyric, film clip script and the like, together with notification that they have been sent a MessageBoxx. By way of example, the following is a segment of Iyric from the song Titled, If I Could Turn Back Time, as performed by Cher, which may be used to deliver the message, "I Don't Want To Lose You": 305 I didn't really mean to hurt you i didn't wanna see you go I know I made you cry, but baby If I could turn back time 310 If I could find a way, I'd take back those words that hurt you and you'd stay If I could reach the stars I'd give them all to you 315 then you'd love me, love me, love me like you used to do if I could turn back time Translated into abbreviated text messaging, the Iyric would appear as follows: 320 IddntRllyMn2HrtU iddotWan2CUGo InolMdeU:'(, BtBby If lCudTrnBckTme

If lCudFnd1Wy 325 IdTkeBckThseWrdsThtHrtU &UdSty If lCudRchD*s IdGvThmO2U ThnUdLuvMeLuvMeLuvMeLkeUUsd2Do 330 IflCudTrnBckTme In a further embodiment of MessageBoxx, there is provided an automated matching system that may have been pre-applied to the media assets as they pertain to the selected message or may be activated on the fly in response to a customer created message that has not previously been input.

335 This system is hereinafter referred to as the Communication Profile Matching System. This utilises keywords, phrases and emotions from the menu selections or from inputs made by the user in the form of messages and style of message. These are used to generate tags that are used to search the database of media assets (textual, audio, static or moving visual) filtering out appropriate solutions for the message and then further employing emotional filtering to identify best matches for the style.

In the process of filtering, textual aspects of the media asset are used to identify the matching elements. These textual aspects are held on the database in relation to the relevant asset and may be a feature of the asset (e.g. a lyric, a film clip script, a section from a book) or may have been generated to describe the content of the media asset (for example a game scene description, a

345 description of a scene from a movie). The Communication Profile Matching System utilises keywords

and phrases from the message to search against similarly defined tags created from keywords and phrases within the textual aspects of the media assets. Importantly, the system adds to the matching process so called Emotional Nature Tags, which are used to enhance the match by incorporating the element of emotion. A diagram of the Communication Matching System follows, with an illustration of 350 how the system works using the specific example of a music asset with lyrics, presented thereafter:

Communication Profile Matching System Process Overview: J _, Input l = message + Emotion + Gift ILL or style category , _ Automated analysis of Key' vord keywords from message Identification of Identification = and emotion or style, by + search area by 360 _ word and combination of category and |. matching criteria Match keywords with Apply I = predefined dictionary of 365 Commun caborl _ Communication Profile 9 Tags to define search process ' . l _ Run communication Profile Tags to l _ cross match with database of 370 Search media content and packaging _ design elements, labeled with Emotional Nature Tags.

= | Each match clement assigns a l 375 1 Assign rating I I I I value, which combined result in a | I 1 - I rating where the highest rating is a I I complete match and the lowest l I I represents no match l rat I I l | Dynamically created pages deliver | 380 IDeliveroptionsll l = I the result of the matching process I I IT I In order of rating with the closest I I match first and the lowest last l 1 1 Example 1: Menu driven message 385 The database holds pre-defined Messages and predeflned media. Each message has a series of "Message Communication Tags" These are subcategorised by "Communication Profile Tags" and "Emotional Nature Tags".

Each media item has a series of "Media Communication Tags". These are also sub-categorised by 390 "Communication Profile Tags" and "Emotional Nature Tags".

l The Matching Process would run as follows: Analyse Cvstomerinput: Message Menu selection: I Don't Want To Lose You Style menu selection: sad Media category selection: music Media subcategory selection: 1980's invoke Filtering Process: Message = I Don't Want To Lose You 405 Assign Communication Profile Tag 1 Communication Profile Tag 1 = "Save Relationship".

Communication Profile Tag 1 Level 1 Match = "Save Relationship", " I Don't Want To Lose You" À Search Dictionary for Communication Profile Tag: Expression Matches 410 "Save Relationship" = I Don't Want To Live Without You I Don't Want To Lose Your Love Stay With Me Don't Throw It All Away I Can't Go On Without You 415 I Don't Want To Be Alone Don't Leave Me Communication Profile Tag 1 Level 2 Match. 1 = "Save Relationship", "i Don't Want To Live Without You" Communication Profile Tag 1 Level 2 Match.2 = "Save Relationship", "I Don't Want To Lose Your 420 Love" Communication Profile Tag 1 Level 2 Match.3 = "Save Relationship", "Stay With Me" Etc... À Assign Communication Profile Tag 2: keywords & phrases 425 Communication Profile Tag 2 = ("Don't Leave", "Don't Go", "Alone", "Lonely", "Lonely Without You", "Lost", Lost Without You", "Without You","Stay", "Love", "Love You", "Still Love You", "Miss You", Want You", Still Want You ", "Sorry", "Make it work", "Start Again", "Start Over", "forever") Communication Profile Tag 2 Level 1 Match.1 = "Don't Leave" 430 Communication Profile Tag 2 Level 1 Match.2 = "Don't Go"

- - Communication Profile Tag 2 Level 1 Match.3 = "Alone" Etc.... À Assign Emotional Nature Tag 435 Emotional Nature Tag 1 ="Low Negative Feeling" Emotional Nature Tag 1 Level 1 Match = "Low Negative Feeling" "Sad" À Search Database for Emotional Nature Tag Matches 440 "Low Negative Feeling" = blue down unhappy miserable dejected 445 depressed tearful Emotional Nature Tag 1 Level 2 Match.1 = "Low Negative Feeling" "blue" Emotional Nature Tag 1 Level 2 Match.2 - "Low Negative Feeling" "down" 450 Etc....

À Search Database for match results where Message Profile Tags" = Media Profile Tags" The search filters for matches with "music", "1 980's" and then identifies items where "Message Profile Tags" match "Media Profile Tags", running "Communication Profile Tags" in parallel with "Emotional 455 Nature Tags" and adding them together to give a total match result.

For "Communication Profile Tags" an overall match is first established with the Expression used in its entirety to match with the song title and song Iyric. Where there is a match with the words of the Expression in sequence in the title or Iyric, the Match is positive and the number of words matched will 460 be assigned a value. The keywords and phrases are then run against the song title and Iyric. In the case of phrases, the match must be a high value (i.e. allowing only for small discrepancy e.g. loved = loved For "Emotional Nature Tags", once an overall match is established, the emotions are used as 465 keywords and matched with the title and the Iyric.

Matches with the song title carry a higher match priority than matches with a Iyric. Scores are profiled based on the number of different word or phrase matches plus a frequency indicator.

470 À Grade Results and present in order of match

if -. l The Results TABLE A attached shows the matches (but not values) for each song in order of priority The values attached to the matches decline as the system filters through the priority levels. Thus, a single positive match of Song Title at Communication Tag 1 Level 1, is valued at a significantly higher rate than high frequency match of lyric content at Communication Tag 2 Level 1.

The matches are shown, coded by differently highlighted fonts in the lyric sheets for each song, attached at Appendix 1 to Table A. The output for this search, would be in the following order of success for the song titles shown: Options output: Selection no: Song title Artist & year Don't Wanna Lose You Gloria Estefan, 1989 _. _._..

2 I Don't' Wanna Live Without Your Love Chicago, 1988 .... 3 I Don't Want To Live Without You Foreigner 1988 Didn't We Almost Have It All Whitney Houston, 1987 5 1 Miss You Klymaw, 1986 ......

6 If I Could Tum Back Time Cher, 1989 7 Alone Heart, 1987 One More Night Phil Collins 1985 Example 2: customer driven message Customer input: Message input: I'm Sorry And Don't Want To Lose You - Can We Start Over? Style menu selection: Sad Media category selection: Music

- Media sub category: 1980's In this instance an additional process needs to take place before the filtering starts. The customer input has to be analysed to establish the appropriate "Communication Profile Tag" to attach to it.

To do this, the words and combinations of words within the customer message input are matched 500 against the dictionary of existing expressions, keywords and phrases and valued according to success rating. In the above example, word and phrase matches would be for: lim Sorry" 505 'Sorry Without Youll "Don7 Want To Lose YoU' Lose" restart Overt Using the key that Italics = Communication Tag 1: Expression match Bold Communication Tag 2: Keywords & phrases match The customers input would then be evaluated in the same way as example 1 above, (because the subphrase I.Donit Want To Lose Youll matches the Message Profile Tag, Communication Profile Tag I' Save Relationships).

520 An additional key that may be picked up here and added to the equation, could be the use of the question mark. This could add the Emotional Nature Tag ttHopefulil even though the customer has specified sad, so that the Emotional Nature Tag search would be on both I'Sadil and lihopefull'.

The Emotional Nature Tags in particular will be the subject of refinement based on feedback obtained 525 from customers usage; where a user elects to send a particular digital asset to convey a particular emotion or style, the rating assigned to that asset in respect of conveying that emotion will be increased in accordance with the usage, thus refining the filtering process and the ability of the system to apply appropriate keywords to the relevant tags.

530 The Emotional Nature Tags will be further used to associate appropriate imagery to the presentation of the decorative container and optional additional visual and audio creative elements for the purposes of enhancing the matching associated imagery and sound. For example, an Emotional Nature Tag representative of the keyword "SadD might be attached to a static graphic of a tear drop and likewise

an animated sequence of a teardrop falling which can then be used in the configuration of the 535 MessageBoxx.

The present invention has been illustrated by reference to a music example and further to show the difference between a menu driven match and a customer input message. It should be considered in reviewing this example that the results have been exaggerated in order to demonstrate the differences 540 between the match results. In reality the number of matches for this example would be higher with the differences between each result in value terms being much lower. In a working match the results would be of the order of 100 titles with the Phil Collins result ranked very low since the match is effectively quite poor 545 In related embodiments, the MessageBoxx may then be personalized by the user through the use of a form FIG.6. The form allows the user to define a personal message that will be revealed when the MessageBoxx as it is opened by the recipienVs. The personal message shall not be limited in length, longer textual messages being accommodated through the use of scrolling text sections within the MessageBoxx and as a pop-out to the MessageBoxx. The user may review the selected 550 MessageBoxx with their personal message enclosed at Step H of the generation process.

In further embodiments, any and each of the preceding embodiments may be enhanced with the addition of optional steps for the user to amend and/or delete any and each of the visual elements that make up the MessageBoxx decorative container; the visual elements that make up the background to

555 the MessageBoxx and the digital asset content of the MessageBoxx itself. In these embodiments, the MessageBoxx and its optional background are structured in a template format whereby each of a

plurality of elements are delivered dynamically from the database and are interchangeable. In such an instance the user will be offered a series of options as described below: 560 Option 1: alter the MessageBoxx decorative container In each of the previous embodiments the user is offered a series of option visual elements to replace those that have been delivered as possible matches to the message requirements of the user. These adaptations may take in their simplest form the option to alter colour, to, in more complex form the option to add and or alter graphical elements. Thus a MessageBoxx decorative container presented in 565 blue, might be replaced with a similarly designed decorative container presented in gold and a graphical representation of a flower might be replaced with a graphical representation of a pearl.

Option 2: alter the background

in each of the previous embodiments where the background is used as an enhanced element, the

570 user is offered a series of option visual elements to replace those that have been delivered as possible matches to the message requirements of the user. These adaptations may take in their simplest form the option to alter colour, to, in more complex form the option to add and or alter graphical elements.

Thus a MessageBoxx background in light blue to represent a sky scene may changed to a midnight

blue to represent a night sky. Similarly an animated sequence that represents the sun rising may be 575 replaced by an animated sequence showing the moon rising.

In a further embodiment, the MessageBo=, it's digital asset content and its optional background is

created entirely by the user using a system of menus and template driven components. In this future embodiment, the user is offered a series of options against a or several components in order to 580 generate a bespoke MessageBo^. As a first instance the user selects the variable components that are to be incorporated within the MessageBoxx in accordance with the methods of the respective embodiments of the MessageBo^.

Option 1: digital asset component The user is offered a menu of assets as identified by Media Category and Media Sub-Category above, where the media subcategory is then searched to provide a listing of media assets by title or artists in listing format. Alternatively, the user can identify a specific asset title or artist through an input form and the system will search its database of assets to find a match or matches. The user then selects a S90 media asset appropriate to their requirement. Further, where appropriate, the user may select whether the embodiment of the present invention carry a textual aspect from the media assess and further still whether that textual aspect be presented in the character translated format of a text message.

Option 2: MessageBoxx component 595 A menu system of basic colour and design options will be supplemented with any graphical elements associated with the selected media asset through the MessageBo oc Communication Profile Matching System, where the tagging system is applied to the visual elements held in the database in the same way as the tags are applied to the media assets. The user may select from these menu items to determine the decorative appearance of the MessageBoxx Option 3: Background component

Similarly, the user will be offered a system of basic design options in addition to visual and textual elements held in the database in association with the selected media asset as identified by the MessageBoxx Communication Profile Matching System, where the tagging system is applied to the 605 visual elements held in the database in the same way as the tags are applied to the media assets. The user may select from these menu items to determine the appearance of the background.

After the process of selection of the component parts, the user reviews the MessageBoxx presentation before accepting the presentation and proceeding through Steps F to H in accordance with the 610 previous embodiment of the MessageBoxx.

A sequence demonstrating how the MessageBoxx might appear to the user upon review, is shown through the sequence of FIGS. 7 to 23. In these, FIGS. 7 to 23 show how the MessageBo oc might

- - appear in one particular shape configuration, through an example animated sequence that is designed 615 to be reminiscent of a gift being delivered. In FIG. 14 a representative example of how the recipient might be invited to open the gift is shown by the open button (1). FIGS. 15 to 19 demonstrate how a representative animated sequence might be used to be reminiscent of a gift box being opened and how a message related to the a or a plurality of integral digital assess might be represented on the inside of the MessageBoxx (FiG.19(1)) and revealed upon opening. In addition an optional graphical 620 representation of the or a plurality of digital assess within the box is represented here by a disc FIG.19(2). FIG. 19 is a representative example of how the recipient might be invited to open a further and optional section within the MessageBoxx (3). FIGS. 20 to 23 are a representative sequence of an animation that might be used to open such a section and reveal a personalized message from the sender (FIG.22(1)). FIG. 23 is a representative presentation of the additional functions that may be 625 added to the MessageBo x, including the options to replay the MessageBoxx as a stream (FIG.23(1), to download the MessageBoxx (FIG.23(2)) and/or it's or plurality of digital assets for future usage and network link/e (FIG.23(3)) used for promotional purposes to guide the recipient to further locations related to commercial and noncommercial locations related to the or a plurality of digital asset/e contained within the MessageBo=. The recipient may also be given a or a plurality of network links to 630 respond to the sender with their own MessageBoxx (FIG.23(4)).

Each of the embodiments of MessageBoxx and its environments and methods will share a common set of generation and distribution systems. Generation may be performed by a user whose identity may be (but is not limited to) an individual, a group, a corporate entity, a representative of a corporate 635 entity. The generation process may take place using (but not limited to) a computer terminal, kiosk, PDA or other handheld device, mobile telecommunications unit, TV or combined TV and computer terminal. The distribution of a MessageBoxx shall be via a network capable of carrying digital items and may include (but not be limited to) the world wide web, a wireless network, cable, satellite and other telecommunications networks. A receiver for a MessageBoxx may take the form of (but not be 640 limited to) a computer terminal, kiosk, PDA or other handheld device, mobile telecommunications unit, TV or combined TV and computer terminal. The receiver may be (but is not limited to) an individual, a group, a corporate entity, a representative of a corporate entity. The components of the MessageBoxx may be delivered in a form that the receiver can stream only, where the MessageBoxx and/or the digital asset within a delivered either in a protected form or in such a way as to enable the components 645 of the MessageBoxx and/or the digital asset to be held on a remote server and not available to download; or it may be delivered in a form that allows the end user to download the MessageBoxx and or the digital asset within onto a digital storage unit, which may be a hard disc, a portable storage unit or other digital storage facility. The generation and distribution system may also be circular in that a receiver of a MessageBoxx in any of its embodiments will be given a connection through which to re 650 enter the cycle at the generation point. Thus a receiver who collects a MessageBoxx will be give a network link to take them to the location of the MessageBoxx service in order to use it themselves. In this scenario, a further enhancement to the system will be to automatically offer the recipient, through a network link of a MessageBoxx a menu of corresponding MessageBoxx options by way of a series

i of digital assets, related messages and MessageBoxx presentations that would be optional responses 655 to a particular message or MessageBoxx. To use a specific example, a user (called User 1) sends a MessageBoxx to a number of people (including User 2) inviting them to gathering using a piece of music entitled 'Calling All The People' by an artist group called '4 Non Blondes', selected from options on a generated menu. The receiver may then be automatically offered a network link that takes them to a series of optional relevant replies to the sender which might constitute the following menu: 660 Option Digital Asset Title Digital Asset Artist Message 1 I Think The Answer's Yes The Beautiful South Yes, I Think I Can Make it 2 The Sound of Oh Yeah Tomba Vira Yes, I Can Make It 3 Pure and Simple Hear Say Yes, I'll definitely Be There 665 4 No For The Thirteenth Time The Wonder Stuff No, I definitely Can't Make it 5 Fat Chance Jon Secada No, I definitely Cannot Make it - Similarly, where User 2 responds to User 1 using a refusal to attend the meeting in the form of MessageBoxx Options 4 or 5, then User 1 may be offered a menu of possible relevant responses 670 through an network link, that includes: Option Digital Asset Title Digital Asset Artist Message 1 What's the excuse this time? McAlmont & Butler Why can't you make it? 675 2 Insane In The Membrane Jasonne Vins Are You Mad? 3 Do You Really Want To Hurt Me7 Culture Club I'm disappointed The above generation and distribution systems refer to user scenarios where the generation process takes place using a live network link, however future embodiments will allow for the off-line generation 680 and customization of the component parts of the MessageBoxx, the resultant item then being available for use through a specified network which may include publicly accessible networks as thus far identified or local networks such as intranets, where permission so to do is granted.

in a further embodiment of the MessageBoxx, the distribution mechanism may be such that the 685 MessageBoxx itself and all its component parts are delivered to the recipienVs as an integral part of an existing electronic communication such as an e-mail or wireless message.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the distribution mechanism may be such that the MessageBoxx itself is delivered as an attachment to an existing electronic communication such as an e-mail or wireless message.

In a further enhancement to the service, specifically requested media assets, associated imagery and ultimately MessageBoxxes may be provided at the request of the user, such request taking the form

/ on an on-line request system, or through a direct request of a representative individual of the MessageBoxx service via a telephone, telefax or other written or oral communication process.

In a further future enhancement to the service delivered by MessageBow, the introduction of an

interface to a print on demand facility will be made, whereby a printed version of the MessageBoxx present invention will be available. MessageBoxx mirrors a printed version of its concept in physical format. In this format, the printed packaging is of a design that allows a greeting, gift wrap and gift to 700 be incorporated in one package. The structure of the packaging is the subject of Design Registration protection in a number of International territories. The MessageBoxx digital service will offer an enhancement to its service in providing the user with the opportunity to select from a menu of pre-

designed printed MessageBoxxes, or to use a series of tools in accordance with the previous embodiment of MessageBoxx in order to process a print design that will be delivered in digital file 705 format to a remote print on demand facility. The process flow for this service is shown at FIG. 27.

735 TABLE A

Matching Results Table Song Title Song Title Lyrics Lyrics Level 1 Level 2 Level 1 Level 2 Level 1 Level 2 Com Tag 1 Com Tag 1 Emotional Emotional Com Tag Com Tag _... Match Match Tag 1 Match Tag 1 Match 1 Match 1 Match Don't Wanna Lose You Yes Yes Yes Yes No I Don't Wanna Live Without Your Love No Yes Yes No Yes I Don't Want To Live No Yes No No No Yes Didn't We almost No No Yes Yes No I Miss You No No Yes No No _. if I Could Turn Back No Time. _. No Yes No No Alone No No Yes No No One More Night No No Yes No No 740 TABLE A cont.

Song Title Lyric Com Tag 2 Com Tag 2 Match Match Number | Frequency Don't Wanna Lose You No 4 I Don't Wanna Live No4 20 Without Your Love I Don't Want To Live No3 14 Without You Didn't We Almost Have No 10 1 Miss You Yes 16 If I Could Turn Back No 12 Alone Yes2 10 One More Night No1

Appendix to Table A 745 Communication Profile Matchina System: illustrative examples Lyrics for matches to: Message: I Don't Want To Lose You 750 Style: Sad Category: Music Sub-category: 1980's 755 The song title and lyrics have been highlighted with matches to the "Communication Profile Tags" and "Emotional Nature Tags": Match Key: _: Communication Tag 1 Level 1 Match Italics: Communication Tag 1 Level 2 Match Underlined: Emotional Nature Tag 1 Level 1 Match 765 Bold: Communication Tag 2 Match

Title: Artist: Gloria Estefan 800 Release Year: 1986 Communication Profile Tag: "$ " Emotional Nature Tag: "Low Nenative Feeling " Sometimes it's hard to m.ake things clear Or know when to face the truth And I know that the moment is here I'll open my heart and show you inside 810 My love has no pride I feel with you I've got nothing to hide So open you eyes and see who I am And not who you want for me to be I'm only myself, myself Know We're gonna get through somehow |_ you now or ever Digital asset segment 820 'Cause baby I've finally found.

The courage to stand my ground But if you want me We all make mistakes; we all I'll be around, forever our way But we stood the test of time 825 We all make mistakes; we all our way and I hope But we stood the test of time and I hope That's the way it will stay That's the way it will stay It's all up to you, to tell me to go It's all up to you, to tell me to go 'Cause it won't be me to walk Cause it won't be me to walk away away 830 When you're all that I know When you're all that I know And I know that And I know that i - _ now r i now We're gonna get through somehow We re gonna get through 835 j now or ever somehow A. -,. -. -. -.... .,.... .,.

Cause baby I've finally found _ now or The courage to stand my ground ever But if you want me 840 I'll be around, forever

- Title: I Don't Wanna Live wimOut Your Love Artist: Chicago 855 Release Year: 1988 Communication Profile Tag: "Save Relationship" Emotional Nature Tag: "Low Negative Feelinn" 860 Thought it wouldn't matter If we didn't stay together And if it was over Baby it was for the better I was thinking I'd be all right 865 'Til I thought it all through Digital asset segment I Now I know that I ain't really living If I have to live without you I don't wanna live without your love I don't wanna face the night alone / don't wanna live without your love I could never make it through my life 870 I don't wanna face the night alone If I had to make it on my own I could never make it through my life I don't wanna love nobody else If I had to make it on my own I don't wanna find somebody new / don't wanna love nobody else I don't wanna five without your love / don't wanna find somebody new I just wanna live my life with you 875 I don't wanna live without your love I just wanna live my life with you Guess I had to go away i.. I So much I had to go through I Digital asset segment l 880 Guess I had to lose you To realize how much I love you Guess I had to go away Can we make the fires burn again? So much I had to go through Burn a little stronger Guess I had to lose you Cause I've been alone and baby To realize how much I love you 885 i can't be alone any longer Can we make the fires burn again? Burn a little stronger / donY wanna live without your love 'Cause I've been alone and baby / don't wanna face the night alone I can't be alone any longer I could never make it through my life 890 If I had to make it on my own I dons wanna live without your love / don't wanna love nobody else I don't wanna face the night alone / don't wanna find somebody new I don't wanna five without your love I just wanna live my life with you If I had to make it on my own My life would never be the same My love would never be the same And I donY wanna live without your love I don't wanna live without your love / don't wanna face the night alone (/ don't wanna live) I could never make it through my life If i had to make it on my own 905 I don't wanna love nobody else (Don't wanna love nobody else) / dons wanna find somebody new I don't wanna live without your love I just wanna live my life with you (Live my life with you)

! Title: I Don't Wanna Live Without You 910 Artist: Foreigner llelease Year: 1988 Communication Profile Tag: DSave Relationship" Emotional Nature Tag: "Hopeful Positive Feeling" 915 Digital asset segment I find myself in a strange situation, and I don't know how What seemed to be an infatuation, is so different now I find myself In a strange situation, I can't get by if we're not together, ooh can't you see and I don t know how 920 Girl I want you now and forever close to me What seemed to be an infatuation, Is so different now I'm longing for the time, I'm longing for the day I can't get by if we're not together, Hoping that you will promise to be mine and never go away cob can t you see Girl I want you now and forever, 925 I dons want to live without you; I dons want to live without you close to me I could never live without you, live withovt your love I'm longing for the time; I'm longing I ask myself, but there's no explanation for the way I feel for the day I know I've reached the right destination, and I know it's real Hoping that you will promise to be 930. mine, and never go away I'm longing for the time, I'm longing for the day When I'll be giving you this heart of mine believe me when I say I don't want to l/ye without you; I don t want to l/ye withovt you I don't want to live without you, I don't want to live without you I could never live withovt you, live 935 I could never five without you, live without your love without your love No I don't want to live without you; I don't want to live without you I could never live without you, live without your love 940 Now I don't want to live without you, I don't want to live without you I could never be without you, live withovt your love I don't want to live without you, live withovt your love 945 (Live without your love) live without your love (Live withovt your love) you see, I'm lost without your love (Live withovt your love) oooh oh (Live withovt your love) without your love...

! Title: Didn't We Almost Have It Ail 965 Artist: Whitney Houston Release Year: 1988 Communication Profile Tag: "Relationship Problems" Emotional Nature Tag: " Low Nenative Feeling " Remember when we held on in the rain The night we almost lost it Once again we can take the night into tomorrow Living on feelings..

975 Touching you I feel it all again Digital asset segment Didn't we almost have it all Didn't we almost have it all When love was all we had worth giving? When love was all we had worth giving? The ride with you was worth the fall my friend The ride with you was worth the fall my 980 Loving you makes life worth living friend Didn't we almost have it all Loving you makes life worth living The night we held on till the morning Didn't we almost have it all You know you'll never love that way again The night we held on till the morning Didn't we almost have it all You know you'll never love that way again 985. Didn't we almost have it all The way you used to touch me felt so One We kept our hearts together down the line A moment in the soul can last forever Comfort and keep us 990 Help me bring the feeling back again Didn't we almost have it all When love was all we had worth giving? The ride with you was worth the fall my friend 995 Loving you makes life worth living Didn't we almost have it all The night we held on till the morning You know you'll never love that way again Didn't we almost have it all 1 000 Didn't we have the best of times When love was young and new? Couldn't we reach inside and find The world of me and you? 1005 We'll never it again Cause once you know what love is You never let it end Didn't we almost have it all 1010 When love was all we had worth giving? The ride with you was worth the fall my friend Loving you makes life worth living Didn't we almost have it allThe night we held on till the morning 1015 You know you'll never love that way again Didn't we almost have it all

Title: I Miss You 1020 Artist: Klymaw Release Year: 1986 Communication Profile Tag: "Missing Partner" Emotional Nature Tag: " Low Nenative Feeling " I thought I heard your voice yesterday When I turned around to say That I loved you than I realized 1030 And it was just my mind Playingtricks on me It seems colder lately at night And I try to sleep with the lights on Everytime when the phone rings 1035 I pray to God it's you I just can't believe That we're though I miss you (I miss you) 1040 There's no other way to say it And I, and I cants deny it I Digital asset segment l I miss you (I miss you) I I It's so easy to see I miss you and me 1045 I miss you and me Is it done and over this time? Is it done and over this time? Have we really changed our minds Have we really changed our minds But it's other's love But it's other's love All the feelings that we used to All the feelings that we used to share share 1050 I refuse to believe I refuse to believe That you don't care That you don't care I miss you (I miss you) I miss you (I miss you) There's no other way to say it There's no other way to say it 1055 And I, and I can't deny it And I, and I can't deny it I miss you (I miss you) I miss you (I miss you) It's so easy to see It's so easy to see I've got together my senses to get there 1060 I've been through worse kinds of weather If it's over now, be strong Can't believe that you're gone I got carry over 1065 1 miss you (1 miss you) There's no other way to say it And I, and I can't deny it I miss you (I miss you) It's so easy to see 1 070 That you're part of me now...

Title: If I Could Turn Back Time 1075 Artist: Cher Release Year: 1989 Communication Profile Tag: "Regret Behaviour" Emotional Nature Tag: "Low Nenative Feeling " 1 080 If I could turn back time.

If I could find a way I'd take back those words that hurt you and you'd stay 1085 I don't know why I did the things I did I don't know why I said the things i said Love's like a knife it can cut deep inside Digital asset segment words are like weapons, they wound sometimes I didn't really mean to hurt you 1090 I didn't wanna see you go: I didn't really mean to hurt you I know I made you cry, but baby didn't wanna see you go If I could turn back time If i could find a way, If I could turn back bme 1095 I'd take back those words that hurt you If I could find a way, and you'd stay I d take back those words that hurt you If I could reach the stars and you'd stay I'd give them all to you If I could reach the stars then you'd love me, love me, love me like you used to do I d give them all to you 1100 if I could turn back time then you'd love me, love me, love me like you used to do My world was shattered I was torn apart if I could turn back time Like someone took a knife and drove it deep in my heart 1105 You walk out that door I swore that I didn't care but I lost everything darling then and there Too strong to tell you I was sorry Too proud to tell you I was wrong I know that I was blind, 1110 and Cob if I could turn back time If I could find a way, I'd take back those words that hurt you 1115 and you'd stay If I could reach the stars I'd give them all to you then you'd love me, love me, love me like you used to do if I could turn back time

! Title: Alone 1130 Artist: Heart Release Year: 1987 Communication Profile Tag: "Missing Partner" Emotional Nature Tag: "Low Negative Feeling " I hear the ticking of the clock I'm lying here the room's pitch dark I wonder where you are tonight 1140 No answer on the telephone And the night goes by so very slow Oh I hope that it won't end though Alone 1145 Till now I always got by on my own: I never really cared until I met you And now it chills me to the bone How do I get you alone I Digital asset segment l How do I get you alone I I You don't know how long I have wanted You don't know how long I have wanted to touch your lips and hold you tight, oh to touch your lips and hold you tight, oh You don't know how long I have waited You don't know how long I have waited and I was going to tell you tonight and I was going to tell you tonight 1155 But the secret is still my own But the secret is still my own and my love for you is still unknown and my love for you is still unknown Alone Alone Till now I always got by on my own Till now I always got by on my own 1160 I never really cared until I met you I never really cared until I met you And now it chills me to the bone And now it chills me to the bone How do I get you alone How do I get you alone How do I get you alone How do I get you alone 1165 How do I get you alone How do I get you alone Alone, alone

fir Title: One More Night 1185 Artist: Phil Collins Release Year: 1985 Communication Profile Tag: "Another Chance" Emotional Nature Tag: "Low Necative Feeling " One more night, one more night I've been trying cob so long to let you know Let you know how I feel 1195 And if I stumble if I fall, just help me back So I can make you see Please give me one more night, give me one more night I One more night cos I can't wait forever L Digital asset segment l 1200 Give me just one more night, oh just one more night Oh one more night cos I can't wait forever I've been sitting here so long Wasting time, just staring at the phone I've been sitting here so long And I was wondering should I call you Wasting time, just staring at the phone Then I thought maybe you're not alone 1205 And I was wondering should I call you Then I thought maybe you're not alone Please give me one more night, give me just one more night Please give me one more night, give me just one more night Oh one more night, cos I can't wait Oh one more night, cos I can't wait forever forever 1210 Please give me one more night, cob just one more night Oh one more night, cos I can't wait forever Give me one more night, give me just one more night Ooh one more night, cos I can't wait forever 1215 Like a river to the sea I will always be with you And if you sail away I will follow you 1220 Give me one more night, give me just one more night Oh one more night, cos I can't wait forever I know there'll never be a time you'll ever feel the same And I know it's only words But if you change your mind you know that I'll be here 1225 And maybe we both can learn Give me just one more night, give me just one more night Ooh one more night, cos I can't wait forever Give me just one more night, give me just one more night 1230 Ooh one more night, cos I can't wait forever

Claims

Claims

1240 1. a method for the generation and distribution of a decorative digital container comprising; (a) graphical (in static or animated form) and textual elements combined to form a decorative container; (b) one or several of a plurality of digital assets including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, games, books, digital art to be placed within the decorative digital container; 1245 (c) storing in a storage medium or media of the component parts of (a) and (b) either in a local or a remote storage facility; (d) assembling of the component parts of (a) and (b) from the storage medium or media to form a unit (e) distribution of the unit over a network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the 1250 user, such that the unit may be collected from a specific network location and opened by the recipienVs in a manner reminiscent of a gift.
2. a method for the generation and distribution of a decorative digital container comprising; (a) a message 1255 (b) graphical (in static or animated form) and textual elements combined to form a decorative container; (c) one or several of a plurality of digital assets including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, games, books, digital art to be placed within the decorative digital container; (d) storing in a storage medium or media of the component parts of (a), (b) and (c) either in a local 1260 or a remote storage facility; (e) assembling of the component parts of (a), (b) and (c) from the storage medium or media to form a unit (f) distribution of the unit over a network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the user, such that the unit may be collected from a specific network location and opened by the 1265 recipienUs in a manner reminiscent of a gift.
3. a method for the generation and distribution of a decorative digital container comprising; (a) a message (b) graphical (in static or animated form) and textual elements combined to form a decorative 1270 container; (c) a segment of a plurality of digital assets including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, games, books, digital art to be placed within the decorative digital container, whereby the segment has been selected for its conveyance of a specific message; (d) storing in a storage medium or media of the component parts of (a), (b) and (c) either in a local 1275 or a remote storage facility; (e) assembling of the component parts of (a) , (b) and (c) from the storage medium or media to form a unit

(f) distribution of the unit over a network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the user, such that the unit may be may be collected from a specific network location and opened by 1280 the recipienVs in a manner reminiscent of a gift.
4. a method for the generation and distribution of a decorative digital container comprising; (a) a message (b) graphical (in static or animated form) and textual elements combined to form a decorative 1 285 container; (c) one or several of a plurality of digital assets including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, games, books, digital art to be placed within the decorative digital container; (d) a segment of a plurality of digital assets including (but not limited to) music, film, TV, games, books, digital art to be placed within the decorative digital container, whereby the segment has 1290 been selected for its conveyance of a specific message; (e) storing in a storage medium or media of the component parts of (a), (b), (c) and (d) either in a local or a remote storage facility; (0 assembling of the component parts of (a), (b), (c) and (d) from the storage medium or media to form a unit hereinafter referred to as a MessageBow 1295 (g) distribution of the MessageBo over a network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the user, such that the unit may be collected from a specific network location and opened by the recipienVs in a manner reminiscent of a gift.
5. A method in accordance with claims 1 to 4 enhanced with the additional component whereby 1300 graphical (both static and animated) audio and textual elements are used to form a background

relevant to one or more of the other component parts of the method
6. A method in accordance with claims 1 to 5 whereby textual content from or related to the digital assets or segments of digital assets are used as a component part.

1 305
7. A method in accordance with claim 6 in which the textual content from or related to the media assets are translated into text messaging format and shorthand text messaging format and where the network notification process to the recipienVs is optionally delivered in the form of the translated version of the textual content.
8. A method in a accordance with claims 2 to 7 whereby the component parts of message, digital assess and segments of digital assets are generated using a matching process, involving: (a) a menu selected or user defined message in accordance with the claims is assigned a Communication Profile Tag by matching its Expression with a pre defined dictionary of key 1 315 phrases;

(b) the dictionary of pre-defined Communication ProfileTags is searched for Expression matches whereby the same Communication Profile Tag has been applied to alternative expressions that evoke the same message (c) At a second level, the Communication Profile Tag is assigned keywords and phrases from the 1320 predefined dictionary (d) An emotion or style related to said message as selected from a menu by a user, or as specified by a user, is assigned an Emotional Nature Tag from a pre- defined dictionary whereby the emotion or style is described in a textual expression (e) The dictionary of pre-defined Emotional Nature Tags is searched for matches whereby the 1325 same Emotional Nature Tag has been applied to alternative expressions that evoke the same emotion (f) The elements of the Communication Profile Tags and the Emotional Nature Tags as they apply to the message and emotion or style are combined to form Message Profile Tags (g) The Message Profile Tags are cross-matched against a database of digital assets or 1330 segments of digital assets where textual content of said digital assets or textual content related to or describing said digital assets or segments of digital assets is held (h) Said digital assess and segments of digital assess are first filtered by category and subcategory as specified by the user (i) Said digital assess and segments of digital assets are further filtered through the frequency 1335 and heirachy of appearance of the Message Profile Tags within the textual content (j) The frequency and heirachy of appearances of the various components of the Message Profile Tags are assigned values (k) The total value of the appearances is computed and ranked in order of closest match by preference 1340 (1) The ranked digital assess or segments of digital assess are presented in order of rank to the user, whereby the highest ranking item is viewed as best match to the combined message and emotional or style requirements of the user
9. a method in accordance with claim 8 whereby the database of graphical (in static and animated 1345 form), textual and audio elements that may form the components of the digital container and the background are assigned Communication Profile Tags and/or Emotional Nature Tags, such Tags

being generated from a textual description of the various elements. The matching process as

described in Claim 8 is further processed against said elements such that graphical (in static and animated form), textual and audio elements can be filtered to make up the component parts with 1350 greater relevance to the message and emotion or style of the message as identified by the user.
10. A method in accordance with claims 1 to 9 whereby the component parts that comprise the method may be replaced with aiteMatives by the user or deleted from the unit prior to distribution via a network.

1 355

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11. A method in accordance with claims 1 to 7, whereby the user is provided with one of a plurality of templates and where the component parts that comprise the methods are selected by the user from a series of menu driven and options.

1 360
1 2. A method in accordance with claims 1 0 and 11 whereby the user has access to the component parts that comprise the methods in an offline environment and whereby the selection process for the component parts takes place off-line from the network and whereby the distribution of the unit takes place when the user returns on-line to the network 1365
13. A method in accordance with claims 1 to 12 whereby the recipienVs of the MessageBoxx is provided a network link from their received unit, to a menu of alternatives as suitable optional responses being relative to the subject and content of the message as originally received.
14. A method in accordance with claims 1 to 12 whereby the component parts that represent the 1370 design elements of the digital method are interfaced with a print on demand facility, and whereby the relevant design components are transferred in digital format to said facility for printing onto a physical representation of a unit in paper format.
15. A method in accordance with claims 1 to 14 where the distribution of the MessageBoxx over a 1375 network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the user, is such that the unit may be delivered as an integral part of an existing communication process such as an email or wireless network message, and opened by the recipient/s in a manner reminiscent of a gift.
16. A,method in accordance with claims 1 to 14 where the distribution of the MessageBoxx over a 1380 network to a single or a plurality of recipients as defined by the user, is such that the unit may be delivered as an attachment to an existing communication process such as an e-mail or wireless network message, and opened by the recipient/s in a manner reminiscent of a gift.

1 385 1 390 1 395