GB2547001A - Categorization and artificial intelligence of notification in instant messaging - Google Patents

Abstract

An instant messaging system in which the sender of a message selects a degree of urgency and importance of a message, as well as a required response type, and, based on a set of criteria, the messaging system employs different time dependent means of alerting the intended recipient of the message. If the recipient does not respond in a set time, another alert is used, depending on the urgency of the message. This may include converting the message into another format, such as email or telephone call. It may include determining a list of the recipients contacts and determining from location or activity history which contacts are most likely at a particular time to be able to contact the recipient, and forwarding the message to a number of these contacts, in order that they can alert the recipient to the message and its contents.

Description

Title: Categorization and Artificial Intelligence of Notification In Instant Messaging DESCRIPTION Technical field

This method involves use of Artificial Intelligence in instant message notification using Categorized notification to ensure specific actions occur on the instant message from delivery to processing; it offers real time message transmission using the internet, SMS, Voice Messaging, Computing, social network and offline methods as might be required. This Categorized notification involves the ability to send text, html, embedded applications, picture and audio format with multi-layer multiple category for the instant message notification such as priority of message, nature, type, required action required for recipient to take on the instant message (such as read, response, delete ) with focus on using notification as a means of enforcing delivery and instigate required action. The artificial Intelligence is trigged in both the method of processing(the server) which uses a combination of categories selected while also putting into factor the time of day, expected location in with last known GPS coordination of the recipient, entered preferences and learnt preferences over time of what works best for the current recipient and other recipients and intelligently combines this to decide next alternative means and technologies with which to notify the recipient of the Instant message and expected action (such alternative might be as simple as SMS notification to alternative numbers of recipient or as simple as making automated phone calls to recipients spouse, parents, or friends to assist in notifying recipient). The artificial intelligence also triggered by this categorized notification by the method activated at the recipient client, this might include first subtly notifying the client but then continuously changing notification methodology for the same Instant message if required action is not performed within expected time frame, to include persistent alarms which might continue even when client device is off. The intelligence also learns what works best for this recipient so as to better instigate required action while adjusting to individual preference, not just based on settings, but also based on past success and other factors.

Background

Instant Messaging has become a global phenomenon with about 1 billion users worldwide. Similar to email, instant messaging or IM, has become a service millions use every day with billions of messages sent each year. Instant Messaging started as PC based text communications service operating over the Internet. As the popularity of Instant Messaging has grown, the interest and desire to be able to engage in Instant Messaging on mobile devices and across multiple devices has been immense.

Several means to continue Instant Messaging on mobile devices have emerged, all of which are mobile text based Instant Messaging clients. As a result of use, statistics and observation the resolve that mobile Instant Messaging as ubiquitous as it is was challenging to be used for emergency situations or for critical sectors such as health and security. This challenge is as a result of a combination of factors. Dedicated pagers and radio which are technologies of the 80's are still in use for emergency situations due to their ability to always reach the intended recipient despite attempts of using newer but everyday technology to replace them, this has not been successful due to the fact that every technology has its own limitations. The reach of mobile technology and internet technology on which most solutions are solely based directed at specific devices/recipients have proven not to be reliable enough to use in emergency situations. How can this problem be solved? What can be done to make Instant Messaging reliable and effective for everyone? How can the sender ensure a recipient receives the message or required action executed? What happens if the recipients IM is not reachable via normal means or the recipient device is off?

The answer is Categorization and artificial Intelligence of notification in Instant messaging (CAIN). The majority of instant messages are primarily delivered through the internet. That was the basis of their discovery and still defines their functionality till date. The thinking of how to overcome the limitations associated with modern day instant messaging led to approach of the problem from a multi-modal point of view which gives the user several options for interacting with the system. The failure by all recent attempts has been the focus on just the delivery of the message rather than combining it with focus on the recipient being aware there is an emergency message from a particular sender. Hence we currently have normal instant messaging, instant messaging via SMS, instant Message by Email and instant message delivery by voice. Basically integrating all traditional technological means to deliver the instant message to the device. Some have also included persistent ringing for notification of a Message as a solution. However, the challenge still remains, if the device is switched off or offline (Airplane mode and/or damaged) or recipient is without Wifi and mobile data/voice connection at the point in time. The thought process lead to understanding the advantages of each traditional technology and merging it with new innovative technology: 1. Pager: Simply to alert the recipient about a message and from whom and a little room for the message. Dedicated to the user 2. Radio & Public Address system: broadcast to all, the recipient hears and if they don't, others do and inform them. 3. Social Media: It has been effective in locating people and forcing actions in separate ways. 4. Human Network: Human beings are social beings, someone we know always knows how to reach us. When that is not the case, then it is likely the person will be declared missing. 5. Landlines: not affected by congestion and always available. 6. Internet: readily available in several places. Little interference to emergency equipments. Can be available in emergency sites 7. Mobile Telecom: Mobile and in most places. 8. Instant Messaging: Ubiquitously available and easy to use by all 9. Computing devices: With most phones, mobile devices being as powerful as computers using multi core processes and GB off rams, processing power or intelligence of complex logic is available with each user. Hence, mobile devices, including phones, tablets, phablets, laptops, desktops, servers are all computing devices irrespective of the OS on them.

The challenge was to intelligently be able to harness all these using a ubiquitous technology creating a powerful solution without creating a nuisance. The exercise led to the modeling of a notification process that was simple yet complete in delivering the full Instant Messaging experience. At the end of the modeling exercise, the next step was to design the system and methods necessary to deliver an instant messaging experience where the computing device has the capability to process different categories of notification of an instant message based on a preset instruction which included the use of multiple technologies. The design was then further optimized by introduction of Artificial Intelligence to the processing of the categories of notification with multi-layered approach and this enabled the integration of social networks. The design outline was prepared to address this new Categorized Instant Messaging environment followed by the actual system design necessary to process the required notification of the message based on the detection of the categorization.

The final step that was taken to confirm that this unique Instant Messaging notification interface would work was the development of a prototype which was completed and highly successful. Several other means to continue Instant Messaging on various computing devices do exist.

As with all Instant Messaging, Categorization and Artificial Intelligence of notification in Instant messaging (CAIN) offers real-time text transmission over the internet. It primarily provides text or visual based notification between two or more participants. It supports effective and efficient communication, ensuring immediate receipt of acknowledgement or response.

Categorization and artificial Intelligence of notification in Instant messaging (CAIN), can have the contact list of the user uploaded into the method, the user also has the option to identify and select what group of contacts or individuals to be uploaded to the method. The users to receive also has the ability to select values for multiple categories for notification the instant message that any particular sender or contact can send to the user. The users sending can select values for multiple categories for the instant message being sent.

The Instant Message is processed by the Server which focuses on notification to ensure the recipient executes required action as instructed in the categorized notification message by delivering the Instant message but also ensures tracking of the status of the message, while using a combination of the current status of the instant message and the values of the categories and Artificial intelligence to execute certain actions which are primarily notification in nature to ensure the intended actions are executed by the recipient;

The Instant Message is received by the recipient with the Artificial intelligence deciding the best series and dynamic stages of notification based on values of categories in the instant messaging, with the default methodology being to use default Message notification, with an added notification associated to the special category attached, while the Notification progressively and dynamically can change based on the actions or inactions of the recipient (based on the set values of the category) to become persistent with visual and audio sound, which is continuously repeated until the receiver executes the desired action, with the persistence also attempting to transcend the current active state of the device with the notification still occurring even when the device is off;

The unique difference with Categorization and Artificial Intelligence of notification in Instant messaging (CAIN) is that it seeks to solve challenges associated with online instant messages where there are limited options to not only ensure recipients do not miss or ignore the intended communication either due to unintentional reasons (network availability or multiple threads) or intentionally consciously ignoring, but also to ensure that not only can the instant message notification be delivered even when the device if offline, but certain actions are executed on the Instant message by the recipient, by using a mix and hybrid of artificial intelligence, social networking and technologies.

With Categorization and artificial Intelligence of notification in Instant messaging (CAIN), critical service sectors such as health and security are able to efficiently use instant messaging as a means of effective communication. The available options include ability to set audio auto read of messages, ensure response, ensure security messages stay secure which e.g. ensure instant messages are deleted.

The benefits of CAIN would be most appreciated in personal or work emergency situation where there is a crisis and there is limited time. It is easier to send a short instant message to a trusted person and put a Critical delivery and Must Reply as categories for notification, knowing fully well that the artificial intelligence of CAIN will ensure the recipient is notified of the message even if he lost his phone, battery dead, flight mode or at another end of the world using technology network or social and human network coordinated by the CAIN. Trying to call and the phone is off or unreachable because of being underground at that point or other intentional or unintentional reasons. Also in Health situation where a particular Doctor needs to be reached because the patient is in labour and he knows her history, or the heart just became available from the heart donor and both the recipient and the doctor both need to be reached and time is a critical factor in addition to the fact that they MUST be contacted WITHIN an acceptable limited time.

The benefit is immense when such an application due to its Artificial Intelligence can be used for basic social interaction such as basic instant Messaging while also being able to turn this social interaction to a Social human network in critical or urgent situations to create an online or offline notification of recipients of the instant messages so they can then ensure to go and receive or perform required action via their computing device (mobile device, desktop or any other digital device), or when this is absolutely impossible, like pager system, call in via phone or physically to contact the sender or via other means as might be feasible.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In order to overcome the limitations associated with ensuring an action is taken in response to an instant message, especially in emergency situations such as health or security, due to limited prioritization options currently available. The primary object of the invention is to:

Provide methods to ensure and execute Instant Messaging client behavior using critical human network intervention. A method and/or system and/or device for instant messaging comprising at least one computing device comprising: a capability in the computing device to process at least one category notification of an instant message based on an instruction; a capability to process the Instant message and/or to monitor and/or use the status of the instant message in combination with at least one categorized notification of the instant messaging to decide on the notification required, and if/when required, and/or can automatically use at least one connected technology to contact and/or activate and/or utilize physical Human network that is linked and/or unique to the receiving party as a means to deliver the instant message and/or notification to the receiving party. 2. A method and/or system and/or device for instant messaging comprising at least one computing device comprising: a capability in the computing device to process at least one category notification of an instant message based on an instruction; a capability to process the Instant message and/or to monitor and/or use the status of the instant message in combination with at least one categorized notification of the instant messaging to decide on the notification required, and if/when required, and/or can automatically use at least one connected technology to contact and/or activate and/or utilize social behavior and/or time of day and/or current location via tracking using a GPS and/or expected location that is linked and/or unique to the receiving party as a means and/or decision mechanism to deliver the instant message and/or notification to the receiving party. 3. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a computing device is sending at least one instant message with at least one instruction containing at least one categorization of the notification of the instant message being sent from the computing device; category notification is part of the instruction which in itself is part of the instant message and/or sent to the receiving computing device after the instant message was sent. 4. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further comprising wherein at least one computing device processing the instant message is connected and/or integrated to alternate instant messaging and/or connected technology which the computing device can automatically utilize for effecting the required categorized notification of the instant message based on the detected combination of the instructions in the instant message and status of the instant message and/or previous notifications that have resulted in required actions being effected and/or actions or inactions of the expected receiver of the instant message in accordance with the category. 5. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further comprising one or more computing devices receiving the instant message and effecting at least one of required categorized notification of the instant messaging based on detection of the categorization with intent in resulting in at least two time separated activities especially but not limited to automated activity of a physical computing device which might be vibration, audio or visual. 6. The method and/or system and/or device in claim 1, further including in the instruction at least one category associated with the instant message wherein the computing device receiving the instant message decides the nature and/or type of at least one of several possible notifications to be used in accordance with the category. 7. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, further wherein the computing device receiving and/or processing the instant message decides the persistence of notification which nature and/or duration and/or lifespan is dependent on one or more actions and/or inaction taken on the received instant message and/or previous methods of notifications that have resulted in required actions in accordance with the category of notification of the instant message 8. The method and/or system and/or device for instant messaging as claimed in claim 5, further comprising the instruction and/or category having a specified pre-set time for at least two types of notification with the notifications being triggered by a combination of the pre-set time and status of the instant message 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein a computing device receiving the instant message can select or specify at least one of multiple category of notification of instant message that can be received from at least one Instant Messenger sender. 10. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further including one or more computing device processing the instant message and effecting at least one notification action which is automatically executed related to the instant message based on detection of the categorization within the same instant message wherein the computing device ensures at least a pre-defined alternative recipient, device and/or system is automatically sent the same or an alternative message via instant message or using alternative message systems and/or alternative technology as a notification in relation to the instant message and/or on current status of the instant message all based on predefined logic and/or dynamic based on artificial intelligence in accordance with the instruction. 11. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further including in the instruction at least one category associated with the instant message wherein at least one computing device processing the instant message and effecting the required categorized notification of the instant message based on detection of the categorization wherein the computing device automatically executes at least one notification related action associated with the instant message wherein the computing device processing the instant message automatically executes at least one alternative notification action on behalf of and/or due to actions or inactions of the expected receiver of the instant message in accordance with the category. 12. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 5 wherein there is a computing device as a server that performs the steps of processing and/or storing the instant message with intent to deliver same to the second client which is the intended destination of the instant messages as selected by the first computing device to perform the steps of:

Processing and detecting the instruction of the categorized notification of the instant message sent by the first client;

And

Attempts to deliver the instant message sent by the first client to the second client;

And on failure to deliver within a defined or pre-defined time span and/or failure of final recipient(s) of instant message to execute required action within a pre-set time span, the system automatically executes at least one notification action related to the instant message based on detection of the categorization within the instruction associated with the same instant message wherein the server ensures at least a pre-defined alternative recipient is automatically sent the same or an alternative message via instant message or using alternative message systems and/or alternative technology as a notification in relation to the instant message and/or on current status of the instant message all in accordance with the instruction. 13. The Method as claimed in claim 12, further comprising artificial intelligence in the server processing for selecting most effective notification for recipients by analyzing a combination of preset values of categories and other data which might include actions and in-actions of the recipient with previous notifications that have proved most effective for the particular recipient and the notification that has proven most effective for other recipients. 14. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 12, further comprising the second device automatically displaying a persistent visual effect and/or playing persistent audio continuously and/or intermittently as part of the notification of the instant message until pre-defined actions are executed on the received instant message by the second computing system or the message is destroyed and/or instruction in the instant message modified by the first client or the server. 15. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 12, further comprising loading a plug-in to an existing instant messaging system for instant messaging on the computing device, the plug-in being capable of categorizing notification of instant messages upon receipt of the instruction. 16. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the analysis of the intended recipients previous and/or history of communication such as Instant Message 17. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the analysis of the intended recipients previous and/or history of communication and/or social media profile 18. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the pre-selected list and/or entries. 19. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the history of previous results on the effective notification and/or action or inaction of the recipient achieved using the human network.

This invention provides various levels of categorization and/or conditions that the processing and/or Artificial Intelligence will consider and, through which messages can be delivered and instigate a response within a time frame, including: 1. Delivery priority: normal, urgent, critical (select one) 2. Action required: none, must read, must reply, must forward, must delete (can select multiple) 3. Proxy delivery allowed: yes, no. Message can be considered delivered once delivered to alternative recipients. 4. Type: personal, work, spouse allowed, parent allowed, friends allowed

This helps decide if boss at work is a priority or girl friend is priority. Also shows who is allowed to see full message or level of the message to be passed to who in the notification path. 5. Schedule delivery time: choose time when Instant message is delivered (alarm both parties to start chat) 6. Location: deliver only if at work, home, out of work and home, specific area (within country, within state), All Areas (select multiple) 7. Action time: maximum time for action to be set, no maximum 8. Group message: yes notify all same time, yes - notify sequentially, Individual (group message, once one member executes action, all members have executed the action. Like police radio, one person takes responsibility and all other can backoff at the moment)

Other factors for Artificial intelligence to put into consideration: 9. Settings for notification during delay: technology and people 10. Time of day: At night, should voice call recipients phone or landline or spouse if critical or urgent message to notify them to read their message. 11. Last known sequence from server that triggered fastest response from recipient: e.g. Landline triggered faster desired action; skip straight to landline instead of progressively trying mobile line, wait for a while and still no desired action, then call landline. 12. Last known sequence from recipient device that triggered fastest response from recipient: e.g. short and gradual increase in Audio alarm, or sudden loud burst in the Audio alarm, or subtle intermittent burst in audio, or regular flash of visual message etc. 13. Analyze all combination for best course of action 14. GPS location of the individual: If at home, landline call seems a reliable means of notification 15. Use analysis of frequency of instant messaging to contacts in Instant Messenger during certain periods to focus and decide which contacts can be contacted within certain time periods to assist in online or offline notification of intended recipient.

DESCRIPTION

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptions, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is disclosed a system and method for delivering instant messages between computing devices using text, voice recording, voice streaming, image capture and delivery with the steps of: generating the instant message, sending a message, processing the message, diverse modes of message notification based on preset instruction including prompting recipient to execute pre-defined actions, notifying recipient using alternate technology and/or alternative processes or notifying alternate recipient where the required actions are still undone. Mechanism for categorized notification in instant message system is available to Instant Messaging clients on electronic text messaging capable devices and computing devices over networked systems such as the internet, wireless networks, cellular networks, radio networks, and wireline networks. Mechanism for processing of the categorized Instant messages notification using artificial intelligence.

In addition, in order to avoid misuse of the persistent notification options, each user/recipient can choose who (individuals or groups) is allowed to send certain types and categories of messages to them. In all cases, the method depending on failure or actions or inactions of the recipient as to aspects:

Server: automatically based on a combination of categories, status of the message and several other processes converts the notification (which can be the message or alternative as deemed required) and sends it to other alternative instant messaging associated with the recipient, also can send Short Message Service (SMS), if no response or required action has been taken, a voice call is placed to the recipients mobile or landline, (home or office) or an alternate Instant message, SMS or voice call is sent to other individuals requesting recipient to contact the original recipient to check app or contact sender. Substitute addresses which have been pre-identified by each individual can be the mother, wife, and father etc. They are also allowed to choose and confirm allowed technology and provide the details for each to be used for notification. A choice of how to notify the recipient is a process which analyses several of the categories which might including if its work or personal message, spouse friendly or parent friendly so as to know if to contact spouse or parents or rather contact best friend, boss e.t.c. This categories and combination can be complex and hence processed by simple logic and/or in preference using Artificial intelligence.

At the recipient device, notification keeps happening until the selected MUST Action is executed. The notification can be layered. E.g. on client device: progressively go from normal short visual notification, all the way to persistent audio, visual and physical activities on the devices.

Advantages • The diverse priorities provides a fool proof messaging system • The various response options ensures messages that require urgent attention are received and an action or response is received within a few minutes • Highly efficient for emergency situations • Internet availability is not a limitation to message delivery • Mixed mode message notification can be targeted to specific industries such as health • Ensures the maximum use of social media and social interactions, via varied technology, to reach individuals as deem necessary especially in terms of crisis • Intuitive interuse of artificial intelligence, technology and human intelligence to ensure instant message is processed as required. • The response type ensures that messages requiring immediate attention receive timely response

INTRODUCTION TO DRAWINGS

This innovation entails numerous steps and each step has various options. In order to fully understand and appreciate the various steps and processes involved in this innovation, the accompanying diagram illustrates the processes in better detail. Six detailed diagrams have been created to describe in fine details the process involved in the different steps; a summary description of these drawings are; FIGURE 1 illustrates the process involved at the point the message is created by the sender. FIGURE 2 is a detailed illustration of the process the message goes through, encompassing the different levels, different options and various routes through which the system ensures delivery of the message/notification. FIGURE 3 illustrates some of the processing going on in the logic and/or Artificial intelligence unit for the notification. FIGURE 4 illustrates in detail the various steps, response options and different forms of action involved when the notification gets to the receiver. FIGURE 5 depicts a sample instant message with categorized notification instruction. FIGURE 6 depicts a sample human network.

THE INNOVATION IN DETAIL

Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner. A system and method for delivering instant messages to computing devices using text messaging, voice recording, voice streaming, image capture and videos.

The system and method is accessed from a computing device by downloading the software application and sending a message to a recipient within the application. It operates in conjunction with computing capable networks and protocols such as wireless, wireline, internet, cellular and radio. Installing the unique software on the computing device is required. The system and method accepts the incoming message and notifies the user onto their existing IM account, acting as the IM client to the IM server.

The system and method provides the mechanism for the automatic conversion of instant messaging text and emoticons to Short Message Service (SMS), voice calls and email translation either in whole or as might be needed for the desired notification. The system and method further comprises the automatic processing of categorization of notification associated with the instant message wherein the computing device receiving the instant message decides the nature and/or type of at least one of several possible notification to be used in accordance with the category.

The computing device receiving and/or processing the instant message decides the persistence of notification which nature and/or duration and/or lifespan is dependent on one or more actions and/or inaction taken on the received instant message in accordance with the category of notification of the instant message. The system and method allows the computing device receiving the instant message to select or specify at least one category of notification of instant message that can be received from at least one instant message sender. The Instant messaging further utilizes a human network as a means to bridge the technology gap of offline (inavailability) to tab the human relationship or intelligence to reconnect and hence still deliver the message or notification to the expected recipient.

The server processing the categorized instant message notification analyses several categories. FIG. 1 shows the basic flow of the system and method originating with an electronic text messaging capable device.

Starting at Stepl, an electronic text instant messaging capable device initiates the process. At Step 2 any elements and functions of the system and methods for setting categories are created.

In Step 3 recipient(s) information and extended message elements for categorization from Step 2 are set for each message.

At Step 4 the message is sent and the extended message elements are converted from text to notification using the instant message processing server. Step 5 performs any conversion necessary to deliver the converted message to the computing device depending on the transport network, technology, and protocol applicable and sends the message to the target computing device(s).

In accordance with the present invention, FIG. 2 shows one expression of the basic flow of the system and method originating with a computing device capable of sending electronic instant message which is now given to the computing device for processing in which case can be a server or other computing device doing a similar job. The instant message is processed by a server (data processing device) and delivered to intended recipient. Based on the response received by the server of actions or inactions taken by and/or on the receiving device, the server initiates the notifications in line with category selected by sender. Based on status and/or after a preset time, the sender is updated with action executed by recipient. If recipient does not execute required action after a preset time, alternate levels of notification are activated by the server, which can include sending same or alternative message to same/alternate recipients using same/alternate technology as notification such as automatically sending SMS and/or activate auto voice call to the recipient or alternate recipient requesting they notify original recipient to check instant message.

Some critical options and/or deciding factors in the choice of alternate notification include but not limited to: 1. The use of time of day: When time of day is put into the equation, to determine the alternative means to be used. For example, at 1am, the recipient is likely at home, hence calling the Landline at home would be a good option. If it is 10am on a weekday and he/she needs to be reached by alternate means then calling the office phone seems to be a better option. 2. Using GPS: If his location is showing he is home as current location or last known location, then calling the home Landline ould be processed as a good means of reaching him. If he is on the field (not home or office), and his mobile is unreachable, then calling his Spouse who would know to alternatively reach him, or by reaching his friend who is within a 5 meters radius of the current location to pass on the information. 3. Using human network: If the notification still needs to continue, the fact remains that humans are social beings, and hence, even if the recipients mobile devices are off, the person will not fall off the planet and will still be reachable by some means, and someone within 1-4 layers of the recipients human network will know how to reach the recipient directly or indirectly by virtue of the relationship. For example: On a friday night or happy hour, if the recipient is not reachable, the best friend will have an idea on possible options for reaching or notifying the recipient either directly if with the recipient, or by contacting other layers of the human network such as boy/girl friend/spouse/mistress. 4. Using Social Network: If notification needs to continue, analysis of the contacts with which the intended recipients corresponds and/or chats and/or communicates with on a regular basis, and contacting such social contacts to in turn notify the recipient. the options can be used individual and/or combination and can also be based on the category of notification and/or pre-approved by the recipient. FIG. 2 shows the graphical representation of the system this method of instant messaging from the engine perspective. In this method, the instant message is received by the system; at receipt, continuous attempt for instant delivery of the Instant message starts. If this is not succesful within a pre-set time, or if successful, but the required action is not executed within preset period, the continuous notification triggers and continues. Also, a continous attempt to deliver and/or monitoring for completion of required actions continues for a pre-defined timeframe and will only change or discontinue when the required action is complete, said action includes but not limited to; read, reply, delete, accept and/or fill attached form. At confirmation of delivery and response/action is carried out, the continuous notification attempt is discontinued and the system updates the sender with the message status, this includes but is not limited to; action taken based on the request in the notification or response received even if the recipient has responded as unavailable.

In the case of triggering of continues notification, then:

The system automatically moves to the next set of phases, which is split into two parts; - The system automatically moves to the next phase of notification processing if no response is received in the first attempt of continuous notification. The next phase (A) activates the appropriate layered stages of various alternate notifications as selected by the sender and defined by the recipients settings for a combination of different variables such as; change from normal display to small intermittent sound, then to continuous or loud siren sound, urgent or critical notification categories; and/or timeframe; and/or day. Either the same notification or an alternate is sent to the alternate recipient using the same or alternate technology, this is determined by the available technology and the type of notification to be sent, such as; voice message, (voice call to landline or mobile), SMS or MMS informing the alternate recipient (either a mother, spouse or boss) to notify the initial recipient to check the instant message. The technologies used are preferably those with which the method can determine if the alternate recipient was reached as time is a factor and the method needs to intelligently balance time with various options available, and flooding all options. - (B) The sender is notified of the time elapse, waits for a predefined set timeframe and moves to the next delivery level (A), except the sender halts the operation in that timeframe. - FIGURE 3 shows some of the category and decision points with which the system needs to process to make a decision on notification actions it should automatically execute. In fig. 1 the process through which categories of notification are set in this method of instant messaging is shown. This method of application is dynamic, hence can be installed on any type of computing device, such as; mobile phone, android tablet, iPad, desktop computers e.t.c. The sender, using any of the aforementioned devices, is to start the process by composing the Instant message as a text, picture, HTML, forms, embedded application or audio. Category selection follows the first step of message composition; the category selected is determined by the sender as normal, urgent and critical. Multiple categories are multi-layered and each category consists of pre-defined and/or dynamic options with preset and/or dynamic timeframes from which the sender can pick. At this stage, the process to send the notification is complete. - It is important to note this; the length of the notification and various aggressive and/or breath of options of notification to be sent is determined by the category to be selected. The organization or individual holds the sole responsibility to create and identify what is to be determined what can be accepted from the sender as normal, urgent or critical in order to avoid misuse. Technologies including by not limited to Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and/or Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP) are integrated at this stage to enable translation of instant message to alternative medium such as but not limited to voice call, landline and mobile number automated calls and emails. FIGURE 4 portrays this method of instant messaging as it is shown on the recipient’s device. The notification notifies the receiver in a persistent manner as is in-line with the category in which it falls; normal, urgent and critical. The notification continues till the required action or response is taken. If the required action is taken, the system automatically updates the status on the server, in order to inform the sender.

When the required action or response is not taken, the notification would continue for a pre-defined timeframe as is determined by the category in which it is sent. The category would either require the notification to become consistently louder until it reaches its peak; the other option is the notification remains the same volume, however the notification continues at a consistent interval until the required action or response is taken.

This method of sending instant messages embodies various options of instant messages that can be sent using both audio options and visual options. Visual options include images, videos or short messages. FIGURE 6 illustrates a typical human network involved in the delivery of a sample instant message. Depending on the notification category; which may include but not limited to normal, urgent or critical and/or timeframe and/or day, the same notification or an alternate message is sent to one of the recipients within the human network usually determined by the category of notification set and/or available technology.

There are several categories which is chosen based on the nature of the notification, and figure 3 has highlighted some of them which in itself is not exhaustive, how ever, within these are; normal, urgent and critical. There are also multiple options of response that can be requested from the receiver, which include these but are not limited to; delete message, voice response, decline message, positive and negative response options etc.

Normal category is selected in non-urgent situations where the required action to be taken by the recipient is minimal. Such response type includes but is not limited to; select an option in the received notification, such as; yes or no; another option permits the recipient to type in detail a response. The recipient is required to carry out an action when a notification has been sent though not within a fixed time frame.

Urgent category is tailored towards sending notifications which are urgent and require a response within a specified short time frame. Urgent notifications would continue to prompt the receiver at intervals; this would only stop when a required action has been taken. Said action, includes but is not limited to: click ‘accept’, ’deny’ or ‘a voice response’.

Critical category is the highest level that is used only in critical emergency situations, such as an emergency surgery in a hospital. In this category, the notification prompts louder than in the other categories; this prompt goes on for a specified period of time (often a short period of time); it involves many layered stages of alternate notification options which is determined by the sender and the settings accepted by the recipients. When the specified time for the notification is elapsed without a response, this method will proceed automatically to the next step. The next step would include sending a notification to the recipients’ specified next of kin; this informs them to contact the recipient. Said layered response options is not limited to the above, other available options include;

This method is a complete embodiment of customization as the response options in each category is not limited in anyway. The organization may remove certain response options, include certain response options which may better suit an individual organization; different organizational situations would categorize a critical category as different from what another organization would. This method of instant messaging is unique; though it has numerous functions, the individual instant messaging suit is prefixed; certain response options and categories are pre-limited, such options can be further expanded to include other options upon the acceptance of the contact to be included in such list.

This example would aid in placing emphasis on the importance of an individual preacknowledging being part of a group of contacts in which all the categorical options are available. An individual who agrees for an acquaintance in his contact to be part of the group is able to send him a critical category which can be used at the senders’ discretion; the sender decides to send a notification to a receiver to confirm availability for a drink but selects the critical category to ensure prompt response. The implication of this is; the notification comes in with a loud prompt that goes on until an action is taken within a pre-defined time frame; the next phase is to contact the receivers next of keen, this could be a parent, spouse or boss, who is notified to inform the receiver to contact the sender. It is not appropriate or ethical to be contacted in such manner; however this is such an implication that can occur if the receiver accepts to be placed in such a category.

Another possible situation which would further buttress the understanding of this innovation in an organizational situation; in the case of a hospital emergency of a sudden need to carry out a surgery by a specialized surgeon who is needed to report to the hospital for the surgery. The nurse, as the sender, has to send a short message with this information to the surgeon; due to the urgency of the situation, the nurse selects the critical category for said message. This message gets delivered to the recipient using the available options, that is; GSM or Internet. The notification gets into the recipients’ phone as a loud audio notification, this loud prompt continues for a pre-set number of minutes until a response is received. If no reply is received after the pre-set minutes has elapsed, this method then goes to the next step in the critical which might be for the system to automatically default and/or based on analysis of current time and/or expected location of the doctor and/or last known geographical location and/or analysis of his social interactions for Instant Messaging and/or other social human interaction, attempt a call to the Doctors mobile phone, known alternate number, or spouse’s or house landline, or if it is happy hour, to his best friend, or send an instant message to his most frequently contacted instant messaging contact that is online to either contact him directly or they in turn send an Instant message or use other forms of technology to contact someone that might be in a better position to reach the doctor to deliver the message of notification.

Status of an instant message is the current state of the instant messenger in relation to any of the possible category listed above especially but not limited to the delivery and action required categories e.g. delivered, read, delete, replied to, shared, forwarded etc.

Both traditional communication and connected technology refers to any technology that can be integrated to a computing device in a way that the computing device can activate and control it. Examples include but not limited to: • use of SIP for Mobile calls and land line calls

• use of API and SMSC for SMS • use of API for instant messages • API and web services for online social media • GPS, Wi-Fi, Sim location tracker for location tracking • API, Java script, Web service, JSON, XML, html for website

Instruction is a set of content with which computer device would know what is expected of them on receiving same. Category notification is expected to be part of the instruction which in itself is part of the instant message hence when a computing device receives an instant message, on receiving it, it will see the instruction and then know what is expected of it. For example but not limited to a situation where an embedded instant message as a category notification requesting must delete, this hence is instructing the computing device on receipt to keep notifying the recipient until he deletes without any other information being sent to the computing device, also contained in this instruction is the expectation of the computing device to communicate back to the server or sender when the requested action is executed on the particular instant message.

Categorization notification of an instant message is a means of selecting and applying categories to an instant message for the purpose of determining and influencing expected notification actions, expectations and processes based on expected actions, inactions, expectations and/or processes of the instant message to which it is attached.

PRIOR ART - CITATIONS

Claims (21)

CLAIMS The claims for this method are:

1. A method and/or system and/or device for instant messaging comprising at least one computing device comprising: a capability in the computing device to process at least one category notification of an instant message based on an instruction; a capability to process the Instant message and/or to monitor and/or use the status of the instant message in combination with at least one categorized notification of the instant messaging to decide on the notification required, and if/when required, and/or can automatically use at least one connected technology to contact and/or activate and/or utilize physical Human network that is linked and/or unique to the receiving party as a means to deliver the instant message and/or notification to the receiving party.

2. A method and/or system and/or device for instant messaging comprising at least one computing device comprising: a capability in the computing device to process at least one category notification of an instant message based on an instruction; a capability to process the Instant message and/or to monitor and/or use the status of the instant message in combination with at least one categorized notification of the instant messaging to decide on the notification required, and if/when required, and/or can automatically use at least one connected technology to contact and/or activate and/or utilize social behavior and/or time of day and/or current location via tracking using a GPS and/or expected location that is linked and/or unique to the receiving party as a means and/or decision mechanism to deliver the instant message and/or notification to the receiving party.

3. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a computing device is sending at least one instant message with at least one instruction containing at least one categorization of the notification of the instant message being sent from the computing device; category notification is part of the instruction which in itself is part of the instant message and/or sent to the receiving computing device after the instant message was sent.

4. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further comprising wherein at least one computing device processing the instant message is connected and/or integrated to alternate instant messaging and/or connected technology which the computing device can automatically utilize for effecting the required categorized notification of the instant message based on the detected combination of the instructions in the instant message and status of the instant message and/or previous notifications that have resulted in required actions being effected and/or actions or inactions of the expected receiver of the instant message in accordance with the category.

5. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further comprising one or more computing devices receiving the instant message and effecting at least one of required categorized notification of the instant messaging based on detection of the categorization with intent in resulting in at least two time separated activities especially but not limited to automated activity of a physical computing device which might be vibration, audio or visual.

6. The method and/or system and/or device in claim 1, further including in the instruction at least one category associated with the instant message wherein the computing device receiving the instant message decides the nature and/or type of at least one of several possible notifications to be used in accordance with the category.

7. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, further wherein the computing device receiving and/or processing the instant message decides the persistence of notification which nature and/or duration and/or lifespan is dependent on one or more actions and/or inaction taken on the received instant message and/or previous methods of notifications that have resulted in required actions in accordance with the category of notification of the instant message.

8. The method and/or system and/or device for instant messaging as claimed in claim 5, further comprising the instruction and/or category having a specified pre-set time for at least two types of notification with the notifications being triggered by a combination of the pre-set time and status of the instant message.

9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein a computing device receiving the instant message can select or specify at least one of multiple category of notification of instant message that can be received from at least one Instant Messenger sender.

10. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further including one or more computing device processing the instant message and effecting at least one notification action which is automatically executed related to the instant message based on detection of the categorization within the same instant message wherein the computing device ensures at least a pre-defined alternative recipient, device and/or system is automatically sent the same or an alternative message via instant message or using alternative message systems and/or alternative technology as a notification in relation to the instant message and/or on current status of the instant message all based on predefined logic and/or dynamic based on artificial intelligence in accordance with the instruction.

11. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 1, further including in the instruction at least one category associated with the instant message wherein at least one computing device processing the instant message and effecting the required categorized notification of the instant message based on detection of the categorization wherein the computing device automatically executes at least one notification related action associated with the instant message wherein the computing device processing the instant message automatically executes at least one alternative notification action on behalf of and/or due to actions or inactions of the expected receiver of the instant message in accordance with the category.

12. The method and/or system and/or device claimed in 5 wherein there is a computing device as a server that performs the steps of processing and/or storing the instant message with intent to deliver same to the second client which is the intended destination of the instant messages as selected by the first computing device to perform the steps of: Processing and detecting the instruction of the categorized notification of the instant message sent by the first client; And Attempts to deliver the instant message sent by the first client to the second client; And on failure to deliver within a defined or pre-defined time span and/or failure of final recipient(s) of instant message to execute required action within a pre-set time span, the system automatically executes at least one notification action related to the instant message based on detection of the categorization within the instruction associated with the same instant message wherein the server ensures at least a pre-defined alternative recipient is automatically sent the same or an alternative message via instant message or using alternative message systems and/or alternative technology as a notification in relation to the instant message and/or on current status of the instant message all in accordance with the instruction.

13. The Method as claimed in claim 12, further comprising artificial intelligence in the server processing for selecting most effective notification for recipients by analyzing a combination of preset values of categories and other data which might include actions and in-actions of the recipient with previous notifications that have proved most effective for the particular recipient and the notification that has proven most effective for other recipients.

14. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 12, further comprising the second device automatically displaying a persistent visual effect and/or playing persistent audio continuously and/or intermittently as part of the notification of the instant message until pre-defined actions are executed on the received instant message by the second computing system or the message is destroyed and/or instruction in the instant message modified by the first client or the server.

15. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 12, further comprising loading a plug-in to an existing instant messaging system for instant messaging on the computing device, the plug-in being capable of categorizing notification of instant messages upon receipt of the instruction.

16. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the analysis of the intended recipients previous and/or history of communication such as Instant Message.

17. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the analysis of the intended recipients previous and/or history of communication and/or social media profile.

18. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the pre-selected list and/or entries.

19. The method and/or system and/or device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selected Human Network is based on the history of previous results on the effective notification and/or action or inaction of the recipient achieved using the human network.

20. A method and/or system and/or device for messaging comprising at least one computing device comprising: a capability in the computing device to process at least one category notification of a message based on an instruction; a capability to process the message and/or to monitor and/or use the status of the message in combination with at least one categorized notification of the messaging to decide on the notification required, and if/when required, and/or can automatically use at least one connected technology to contact and/or activate and/or utilize physical Human network that is linked and/or unique to the receiving party as a means to deliver the message and/or notification to the receiving party.

21. A method and/or system and/or device for messaging comprising at least one computing device comprising: a capability in the computing device to process at least one category notification of an message based on an instruction; a capability to process the message and/or to monitor and/or use the status of the message in combination with at least one categorized notification of the messaging to decide on the notification required, and if/when required, and/or can automatically use at least one connected technology to contact and/or activate and/or utilize social behavior and/or time of day and/or current location via tracking using a GPS and/or expected location that is linked and/or unique to the receiving party as a means and/or decision mechanism to deliver the message and/or notification to the receiving party.