WO2001097120A1

WO2001097120A1 - An animation object map information providing method and system based on internet

Info

Publication number: WO2001097120A1
Application number: PCT/KR2000/000750
Authority: WO
Inventors: Un-Hyoung Park; Mann-Ho Jun; Sang-Boon Kim; Taek-Un Nam; Yong-Sup Shin; Kwang-Sig Choi; Wan-Su Kim
Original assignee: Holy Invite Communications Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2000-06-15
Filing date: 2000-07-12
Publication date: 2001-12-20
Also published as: KR20010112875A; AU2000257119A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and system for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated objects. The method and system use the Internet to facilitate the provision of animated, landmark-based map information to a user. The method comprises the steps of receiving a map information request signal from a user, retrieving a map information corresponding to the map information request signal from a database, and transmitting the map information to the user, wherein a mark of the map information is expressed by an animated object that provides detailed information corresponding to the mark for the user and the animated object is classified selectively and arranged in accordance with a layer.

Description

AN ANIMAΗON OBJECT MAP INFORMATION PROVIDING METHOD AND

SYSTEM BASED ON INTERNET

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a method and system for providing internet-based

maps that display animated objects. Particularly, it relates to a method and system for

creating animated objects representing marks using "Flash" technology to provide

interactive, detailed information corresponding to locations on a map. If the detailed

information includes reservation information, it may assist users in making reservations via

the Internet.

Background Art

Several methods for providing map information have been attempted. For example,

there has been a method for providing map images for users.

However, existing methods provide only simple, 2-dimensional plane maps,

comprising simple lines but no representation of depth. Consequently, these maps are

difficult to understand for those users who cannot easily make the mental leap between 2-

dimensional map and 3-dimensionaI reality.

Conventional maps are of the image type or vector type, using (X, Y) coordinates

in applets of the web browser. Facilities-related marks expressed on conventional maps are not portrayed as real objects. The marks are not detailed for controlling. In addition,

interactive data processing (for example, animated effects, detailed information, web site

linking, banner advertisement generation) is not possible using conventional marks.

In addition, network loads are increased by the frequent scrolling that is required

when using existing map technology. Consequently, only maps with a narrow scope can be

displayed on the user's interface.

Internet users have been increasing explosively. Accordingly, e-business has been

facilitated by this increase. Many Internet shopping malls manage home pages. Users may

access these shopping malls via advertisements or via conventional search engines.

Many restaurants and chain stores do not have their own home pages. Accordingly,

service environments are needed for these restaurants and chain stores.

Disclosure of the Invention

The present invention is intended to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages

of conventional map information systems. Therefore, it is an object of the present

invention to provide a method and system for providing an Internet-based map that

displays animated objects. With the method and system, all marks may be represented as

animated objects using "Flash" technology. The animated object map is designed to

increase visual recognition around the vicinity of a given landmark. Facility-related

animated object may be selectively displayed according to a "layer" system when searching broad regions. In addition, the map may be displayed and adjusted quickly. The

mode of control, for example, may be a movement or a scale-up or down of the map.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a method and system for

providing an Internet-based map that displays animated objects, wherein interactive map

information (for example, facility names, firm names, telephone numbers, categories of

business) or banner advertisements may be provided for users by mapping detailed

information about objects on a topographical map using animated objects. In addition, a

relevant home page may be accessed, with a banner advertisement included in some

animated objects.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a method and system

for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated objects that can be used to

make reservations at establishments depicted on the map and receive instant confirmation

of said reservations.

To achieve these objects, one aspect of the present invention is a method for

providing an Internet-based map that displays animated objects. The method comprises the

steps of receiving a map information request signal from a user, retrieving a map

information corresponding to the map information request signal from a database and

transmitting the map information to the user, wherein a mark of the map information is

expressed by an animated object that provides detailed information corresponding to the

mark for the user and the animated object is classified selectively and arranged in accordance with a layer.

Moreover, the map information request signal is generated by a regional retrieval

or a key word retrieval. The map information is generated by mapping the detailed

information and an animated object map composed of a topographical map and the

animated object- Also, the map information comprises a regional map information of a

region corresponding to the map information request signal and adjacent regional map

information of adjacent regions. The map information comprises a regional map

representing the region, and eight adjacent regional maps representing the adjacent regions.

The detailed information comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of a

classified catalog, a facility name, a firm name, a category of business, a telephone number,

a facsimile number, an address, a URL, whether or not a banner advertisement is provided,

a person in charge of reservations, business hours, seating capacity, parking capacity,

settlement method and whether or not coupons can be used. The user is able to access a

web site corresponding to the URL, when the detailed information comprises the URL.

The animated object is classified as business facilities, sales facilities, accommodation,

industrial equipment, public institutions, medical facilities, sports facilities, government

offices, traffic-related facilities, educational facilities, research installations, religion-

related facilities, admission facilities, assembly facilities, or residence facilities, and

arranged according to a layer.

Another aspect of the present invention is a method for providing an Internet- based map that displays animated objects. The method comprises the steps of receiving a

map information request signal from a user, retrieving a map information corresponding to

the map information request signal from a database, transmitting the retrieved map

information to the user, wherein a mark of the map information is expressed by an

animated object that provides detailed information corresponding to the mark for the user

and a reservation-related animated object is expressed differently from other animated

objects, if the user inputs an advance order using the map information, receiving the

advance order and transmitting the advance order to the business corresponding with the

animated object.

or a key-word retrievaL The map information is generated by mapping the detailed

information on an animated object map, which is composed of a topographical map and

animated objects. The map information comprises a regional map information of a region

corresponding to the map information request signal and an adjacent regional map

information of an adjacent region. The map information comprises a regional map

a person in charge of reservations, business hours, seating capacity, parking capacity, settlement method and whether or not coupons can be used. The user is able to access a

related facilities, admission facilities, assembly facilities and residence facilities, and

arranged according to a layer. The method further comprises the steps of receiving a result

of the advance order from the business and transmitting the result of the advance order to

the user. The means by which an advance order is transmitted to the business, or the result

of an advance order is transmitted to a user, is selected from a group consisting of

facsimile, telephone, e-mail and SMS (Short Message Service).

Still another aspect of the present invention is an apparatus for providing an

Internet-based map that displays animated objects. The apparatus comprises means for

receiving a map information request signal from a user, means for retrieving a map

means for transmitting the map information to the user, wherein a mark of the map

information is expressed by an animated object that provides detailed information

corresponding to the mark for the user and the animated object is classified selectively and

arranged according to a layer.

Still another aspect of the present invention is an apparatus for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated objects. The apparatus comprises means for

information corresponding to the map information request signal from a database, means

for transmitting the retrieved map information to the user, wherein a mark of the map

corresponding to the mark for the user, and a reservation-related animated object is

expressed differently from other animated objects, if the user inputs an advance order using

the map information, means for receiving the advance order and means for transmitting an

advance order to a business that corresponds to the mark.

Still another aspect of the present invention is an apparatus for providing an

Internet-based map that displays animated images of locations. The apparatus comprises a

storage device and a processor coupled to said storage device, said storage device storing a

program for controlling said processor and said processor operating with said program to

receive an map information request signal from a user, retrieve a map information

corresponding to the map information request signal from a database and transmit the map

and the animated object is classified selectively and arranged in accordance with a layer.

Still another aspect of the present invention is an apparatus for providing an

Internet-based map that displays animated images of locations. The apparatus comprises a storage device and a processor coupled to said storage device, said storage device storing a

receive a map information request signal from a user, retrieve a map information

corresponding to the map information request signal from a database, transmit the retrieved

map information to the user, wherein a mark of the map information is expressed by an

animated object.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The above objects and other advantages of the present invention will become more

apparent in detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiments thereof with reference to

the attached drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a 2-dimensional animated object map expressed by

layers;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an Internet-based animated object map information

system in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.3 is an illustration of an animated object map displayed on a display device; FIG. 4 is an illustration of 8-directional map movement;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of scaling-up and scaling-down of the animated object map;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an Internet-based e-business system and an advance

ordering process that uses the animated object map;

FIG. 7a is an illustration of each server illustrated in FIG. 2 and the interactive

relationship of each;

FIGS. 7b and 7c are illustrations of database's structure stored in the database

server and the interactive relationship of each;

FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c are flow charts illustrating a method for providing information

using a 2-dimensional animated object map in accordance with one preferred embodiment

of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a method for providing information that

corresponds to a user's request in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the

present invention;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method for providing interactive information in

accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

FIGS. 11a and lib are flow charts illustrating a method for placing advance orders

or reservations using the animated object map in accordance with one preferred

embodiment of the present invention. Bes.t Modes for carrying out the Invention

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in

more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but it is understood that the

present invention should not be limited to the following embodiments.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a 2-dimensional animated object map expressed by

layers.

Referring to FIG. 1, the 2-dimensional animated object map comprises a

topographical map layer 100, a subway layer 120, a building layer 130 and a traffic sign

layer 140.

The topographical map layer 110 represents a basic topographical map including

pieces of land, green tracts of land, a drainage pattern and roads. The subway layer 120

includes an animated subway service route, subway station building and gateway. The

building layer 130 includes animated facilities . The traffic sign layer 140 includes an

animated bus stop, parking lot, etc., and also represents traffic regulations (for example,

one-way traffic, U-turn, No left turn).

In accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention, animated

objects (images) of facilities can be generated using "Flash" technology. In accordance

with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, any other animated object,

including those in the topographical map layer 110 and those in the traffic sign layer 140,

can be generated using "Flash" technology. Preferably between twenty and thirty objects (images) may be arranged on one

map. This number will optimize visual recognition in the area around specific landmarks.

When public institutions, government offices or other primary facilities are arranged on the

animated object map, an appropriate symbol may be adopted for representing these

locations. At intersections on a large-scale block, the animated objects are arranged in

close order.

Facility-related animated objects are classified into business facilities, sales

facilities, accommodations, industrial equipment, public institution, medical facilities, park,

sports facilities, traffic-related facilities, educational facilities, research installation,

religion-related facilities, admission facilities, assembly facilities and residential facilities,

and arranged according to a "layers" system. A user may peruse facility-related animated

objects selectively in according to which layer they are displayed on.

The animated objects the user is searching for may be classified selectively,

arranging the facility-related animated objects according to which layers they are displayed

on. Also, if the layers are stored in web browser cache of the user device, they can be

displayed and controlled quickly. The mode of control, for example, may be a movement, a

scaling-up or scaling-down of the animated-object map.

In addition, in accordance with the present invention, "Flash" technology allows

for any mark (or location) to be represented by a animated object on the animated object

map. Animated objects arranged on the basic topographical map may increase the user's visual recognition.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an Internet-based information system that uses an

animated object map in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present

invention.

Referring to FIG. 2, the animated object mapped information system includes an

application server 220, a database server 230 and an animation server 240.

If a user inputs a key word to retrieve a map, or asks to search a map by selecting a

region using a web browser 210, the application server 220 creates an SQL (Structured

Query Language) query and transmits it to the database server 230. The SQL is a standard

language for obtaining or renewing data. The SQL for data may be called to as a DML

(Data Manipulation Language).

Then, the database server 230 transmits retrieved topographical map codes to the

animation server 240. The animation server 240 retrieves an animated object map and

object code. The retrieved animated object map includes a topographical map and

animated objects (images). The animation server 240 transmits the object code to the

database server 230 and the animated object map to the application server 220.

The database server 230 retrieves detailed information about the object according

to the object code. Then, the database server 230 transmits this detailed information about

the object to the application server 220.

The application server 220 receives the animated object map (topographical map + animated objects) from the animation server 240 and detailed information about the object

from the database server 230. Then, the application server 220 generates map information

250 by mapping the detailed information about the object and the animated object map.

The application server 220 transmits the map information 250 to the user web browser 210.

The user web browser 210 displays the map information 250 on a display device.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an animated object map displayed on a display device.

Referring to FIG. 3, the user may search for detailed information about any

animated object displayed on the animated object map. Particularly, the user may access an

animated object-related home page (the home page is generated by an animated object-

related web server 260) if the animated object has site URL information.

In addition, the user may access an e-business system 270 for advance ordering, if

any of the animated object displayed on the animated-image map have links to the e-

business system 270.

FIG.4 is an illustration showing 8-directional map movement.

Referring to FIG. 4, the user may control the animated object map, easily and

quickly moving it in any of 8-directions by using a mouse. The animated object map

displayed on the display device is composed of 9 sub-animated object maps used for

searching broad regions.

If the user controls 1^st animated object map 410 composed of g, h, i, 1, m, n, q, r, s

sub-animated object maps for movement toward due north, 2^nd animated object map 420 composed of b, c, d, g, h, i, 1, m, n sub-animated object maps is displayed on the display

device. If the b, c, d sub-animated object maps are stored in the user's web browser cache,

the 2^nd animated object map 420 is displayed on the display device quickly. If the b, c, d

sub-animated object maps are not stored in the user's web browser cache, the user's web

browser 210 requests that the animation server 240 and the database server 230 transmit

the b, c, d sub-animated object maps. The q, r, s sub-animated object maps are stored in the

user's web browser cache.

If the user moves the 1^st animated object map 410 toward the northeast, the 3^rd

animated object map 430 composed of c, d, e, h, i, j, m, n, o sub-animated object maps is

displayed on the display device. If the user moves the 1^st animated object map 410 toward

due east, the 4^th animated object map composed of h, i, j, m, n, o, r, s, t sub-animated object

maps is displayed on the display device. If the user moves the 1^st animated object map 410

toward the southeast, the 5^th animated object map composed of m, n, o, r, s, t, w, x, y sub-

animated object maps is displayed on the display device. If the user moves the 1^st animated

object map 410 toward due south, the 6^th animated object map 460 composed of 1, m, n, q, r,

s, v, w, x sub-animated object maps is displayed on the display device. If the user moves

the 1^st animated object map 410 toward the southwest, the 7^th animated object map

composed of k, I, m, p, q, r, u, v, w sub-animated object maps is displayed on the display

device. If the user moves the 1^st animated object map 410 toward due west, the 8^th

animated object map composed of f, g, h, k, 1, m, p, q, r sub-animated object maps is displayed on the display device. In addition, if the user moves the 1^st animated object map

410 toward the northwest, the 9^th animated object map composed of a, b, c, f, g, h, k, 1, m

sub-animated object maps is displayed on the display device.

When the animated object maps are displayed, if the 3 new, sub-animated object

maps are stored in the user's web browser cache, the animated object map is displayed on

the display device quickly. If the new sub-animated object maps are not stored in the user's

web browser cache, the user's web browser 210 requests that the animation server 240 and

the database server 230 transmit the new sub-animated object maps.

FIG.5 is an illustration of scaling-up and scaling-down the animated object map.

Referring to FIG. 5, the user may control the animated object map described in

FIG. 3 to scale-up or scale-down by using a mouse (scaled-up animated object map 520;

scaled-down animated object map 510). When the user scales up or scales down the

animated object map, all of the animated objects are distinctly displayed on the display

device using a landering process.

FIG. 6 is an illustration showing an Internet-based e-business system and advance

ordering process that uses the animated object map.

Referring to FIG. 6, the user 610 may access the animated object map information

system via the Internet 620, and search restaurant object or chain store object (for example)

in the animated object map 630 in order to place an advance order or make a reservation

using an Internet-phone or telephone 640. Also, the user may log onto the e-business server 650, and input reservation

information or advance order information on-line. In accordance with another preferred

embodiment of the present invention, the user may place an advance order via facsimile

660 or via telephone by calling (accessing) management center personnel 670.

If the advance order or reservation is to be confirmed, the e-business server 650

transmits an E-mail or a message using SMS (Short Message Service) to the user 610. The

management center personnel 670 may input the confirmation in the e-business server 650.

relationship of each.

Referring to FIG. 7a, the application server 220, the database server 230 and the

animation server 240 are coupled with one another via a communication network (the

Internet, for example). The database server 230 is coupled to the e-business server 650 via

the communication network.

The application server 220 receives a user's request via the Internet, and transmits

a plurality of HTML pages 701 in accordance with the user's request.

The database server 230 stores an object database 704, a member (user) database

705, a mileage database 707, an advance order database 706, an object chain store database

708 and a menu database 713.

FIGS. 7b and 7c are illustrations of database structures stored in the database

server and their interactive relationships. Referring to FIGS. 7b and 7c, the object database 704 stores information about

each facility-related object (for example, topographical codes, object codes, classified

catalogs, facility names, firm names, categories of business, telephone numbers, facsimile

numbers, addresses, URLs and whether or not a banner advertisement is provided).

The application server 220 reads the detailed information about the object and

generates interactive map information by mapping the detailed information about the

object and the animated object map composed of a topographical map and animated

objects.

The object chain store database 708 stores information about restaurants or chain

stores (for example) that is used for making reservations or placing advance orders, and is

coupled to the object database 704 by the object code. The object chain store database 708

stores one of the group consisting of the object codes, persons in charge of reservations,

telephone numbers for reservations, facsimile numbers for reservations, business hours,

seating capacity, parking capacity, facsimile number, credit card policy, coupon policy and

other remarks.

The application server 220 reads the detailed information about the object chain

store and generates interactive map information by mapping the detailed information about

the object chain store and the animated object map for reservations.

The member database 705 stores information about the member (user) for

reservation purposes. The member database 705 stores ID's, pass words, names, resident registration numbers, e-mail addresses, addresses, telephone numbers and mobile

communication terminal numbers.

When the user places an advance order through the Internet using an animated

object map, the e-business server 650 reads the stored member's information, certifies the

member and accepts the advance order based on the member's information. The e-business

server 650 provides the user with on-line confirmation of the advance order.

The advance order database 706 stores information about each advance order. The

advance order database 706 stores object codes, menus, subscription times, subscription

personnel, names of persons who make reservations, liaison information, remarks,

reservation methods and reservation results. In accordance with another preferred

embodiment of the present invention, the menu database 713 is separate from the advance

order database 706. The menu database 713 stores object codes, menus and prices. The e-

business server 650 uses advance order information in instigating the advance order

process.

The mileage database 707 stores information about mileage obtained from the

member. The mileage database 707 stores ID's, classifications, items and points.

The animation server 240 stores topographical maps, animated objects and

animated object maps produced using "Flash" animation technology. The animation server

240 transmits the topographical map and the animated objects to the application server 220.

The detailed information about each object is stored in the object database 704 of the database server 230 and corresponds to the object code one-to-one.

The e-business server 650 is used for the e-business system 670 and performs

aweb service 709, a facsimile service 710, an SMTP service 711 and a message service 712.

In the case of the web service 709, the e-business server 650 performs a user

accessing process and an advance ordering process. In the case of the facsimile service 710,

the e-business server 650 facsimiles advance orders to relevant chain stores 680 in real

time. In the case of the SMTP service 711, the e-business server 650 transmits e-mail

confirmation of an advance order to the member. In the case of the message service 712,

the e-business server 650 transmits an SMS message to the user's mobile communication

terminal, confirming the status of an advance order.

FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c are flow charts illustrating a method for providing a 2-

dimensional animated object mapped information in accordance with one preferred

embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c, when the user accesses an animated object

mapped information site corresponding to the application server 220 (Step 101), the

application server 220 transmits to the user a web page used for region retrieving or key

words retrieving. In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present

invention, the application server 220 further performs the certification of the user. The

application server 220 provides access to the user if the user is a registered member. The

application server 220 can transmit error messages as well as web pages to the user. The application server 220 determines which method the user selects between

regional retrieval and key-word retrieval (Step 102). If the user selects regional retrieval,

the application server 220 performs step 103. Otherwise, it performs step 109.

If the user wants to retrieve a regional map, the application server 220 generates a

web page for this purpose (Step 103). Then the user selects a large -scope region, using the

web page for selecting the region (Step 106). Successively, the user selects a small-scope

region (Step 107). Then the application server transmits a topographical map code

corresponding to the large-scope and small-scope regions to the animation server 240 (Step

108).

If the user wants to retrieve a region using a key word, the application server 220

generates a web page for inputting key words. Then the application server 220 receives a

key word (for example, a facility name, a classified catalog, a firm name, a category of

business, a telephone number, an address) inputted from the user for retrieving a region

(Step 109). The application server 220 creates an SQL query in accordance with the user's

request (Step 110) and transmits the SQL query to the database server 230. The application

server 220 performs parsing of the SQL query and SQL process (Step 111). The

application server 220 retrieves the relevant animated object from the object database 704

and the object chain store database 708.

Then the application server 220 determines whether or not any topographical map

code is retrieved (Step 112). If at least one topographical map code is retrieved, the application server 220 performs step 113. Otherwise, it returns to step 109.

At step 113, the application server 220 determines whether or not the number of

retrieved results exceeds one. If the number of retrieved results exceeds one, the

application server performs step 114. Otherwise, it performs step 116.

At step 114, the application server 220 generates a retrieved results list on the

display device of the user. If the user selects one retrieved result using the retrieved results

list, the application server 220 receives the selection (Step 115). Then the application

server 220 determines whether or not there is any object code corresponding to the

selection (Step 116). If there is an object code, the application server 220 performs step 117.

Otherwise, it performs step 108.

At step 117, the application server 220 assigns the object code to the cookie of the

application server 220 or the session variable. Then the application server 220 transmits the

relevant topographical map code to the animation server 240 via the database server 230

(Step 108).

The animation server 240 retrieves a regional animated object map in accordance

with the topographical map code (a region) and eight surrounding regional animated object

maps according to the region (Step 118). The database server 230 reads detailed

information about all animated objects included in the 9 animated-image maps (one

regional animated object map and 8 surrounding regional animated object maps) from the

object database 704 and the object chain store database 708, and transmits the detailed information about all animated objects to the application server 220 (Step 119).

The application server 220 generates the map information by mapping the detailed

information and the animated object maps (Step 121). The application server 220

determines whether or not there is any animated object code identical to the object code

assigned to the cookie of the application server 220 or the session variable (Step 122). If at

least one animation object code is identical to the object code assigned to the cookie of the

application server 220 or the session variable, the application server 220 performs step 12.

Otherwise it performs step 124.

The application server 220 produces a conspicuous twinkle in the vicinity of the

object corresponding to the identical animated object (Step 123). The application server

220 expresses reservation-related animated objects in a different way from other animated

objects (Step 124).

The application server 220 transmits the map information (detailed information +

animated object map) to the user's cache system (Step 125). The map information (detailed

information + animated object map) is displayed on the user's display device (Step 126).

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a method for providing map information

corresponding to a user's request in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the

present invention.

Referring to FIG. 9, the application server 220 receives a user's request from the

user's device (Step 201). Then the application server 220 determines which one the user has requested among to scale-up / scale-down the animated object map, to move the

animated object map and to provide interactive information about the animated object

(Step 203).

At step 205, the application server 220 transmits the scaled-up / scaled-down

animated object map to the user's device in accordance with the user's request for scaling-

up / scaling-down the animated object map.

At step 207, the application server 220 determines whether the 3 new animated-

image maps, in accordance with the user's request to move the animated object map, are

stored in the user's cache system. If the new animated-image maps are stored in the user's

cache system, the application server 220 performs step 209. Otherwise, it performs step

211.

At step 209, the new animated object maps are displayed on the display device. At

step 211, the application server transmits the new topographical map code to the animation

server 240 via the database server 230. Then the application server performs step 118 as

illustrated.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method for providing interactive information

in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 10, the user selects an animated object using a mouse (Step 301).

Then the application server 220 determines whether to roll over the animated object, click

the animated object or click the reservation-related animated object (Step 303). If the choice is to roll over the animated object, the application sever 220 provides

detailed information (for example, a facility name, a firm name, a category of business, a

telephone number, a facsimile number and an address) to the user (Step 305). The detailed

information is displayed as text in the right, upper corner of the animated object. The

application server 220 determines whether or not there is any banner advertisement (Step

307). If there is at least one banner advertisement, the application server 220 provides the

banner advertisement to the user. The banner advertisement is displayed in the upper

corner of the page.

If the choice is to click the animated object, the application server 220 determines

whether or not there is a URL of a web site corresponding to the animated object (Step

313). If there is a URL of a web site corresponding to the animated object, the application

server 220 provides the web site page to the user (Step 315). The web site page is

displayed on the user's display device.

If the choice is to click a reservation-related animated object, the application

server 220 performs step 401.

FIGS. 11a and lib are flow charts illustrating an advance ordering method using

animated objects in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 11a and lib, the user logs onto the web site corresponding to

the application server 220 (Step 401). The application server 220 certifies the user using

pre-stored member information in the member database 705. The user selects an ordering method using a web page provided from the e-

business server 650 (Step 403). The user may order something using an Internet-phone, a

telephone or on-line (the Internet).

The e-business server determines which ordering method the user has selected

(Step 405).

If the user selects Internet-phone or telephone, he/she reserves something directly

with the relevant chain store (Step 407).

If the user selects on-line (the Internet), he/she inputs reservation-related details

using the web page provided by the e-business server 650 (Step 409). The e-business

server 650 stores reservation-related details in the advance order database 706 (Step 411).

The e-business server 650 provides mileage for the user. Information regarding the mileage

provided is stored in the mileage database 707 (Step 413).

The e-business server 650 determines which reservation method has been chosen

(Step 415). The e-business server 650 may reserve via facsimile or telephone.

At step 417, the e-business server 650 facsimiles the advance order to the relevant

chain store in real time. The e-business server 650 may reserve something with the relevant

chain store using a facsimile (Step 419).

At step 421, the management center's personnel confirm the advance order. The

management center's personnel reserve something with the relevant chain store for the user.

The e-business server 650 may reserve something with the relevant chain store by telephone (Step 423).

At step 425, the e-business server 650 confirms the reservation. Then the e-

business server 650 determines which notification method is chosen (Step 427). The e-

business server 650 may notify the user of a reservation confirmation via facsimile or

telephone.

At step 429, the e-business server 650 transmits an E-mail or SMS message

corresponding to the result of the reservation. At step 431, the user is notified of the result

of the reservation via telephone.

Although the present invention has been described in terms of various

embodiments, it is not intended that the invention be limited to these embodiments.

Modification within the spirit of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Industrial Applicability

One advantage of the method and system for providing an Internet-based map that

displays animated object is that the method and system use "Flash" technology to increase

visual recognition in the area immediately surrounding a landmark.

Another advantages of the method and system for providing an Internet-based map

that displays animated objects are that facility-related animated object s are selectively

displayed according to layers, large regions may be searched using an animated object map

composed of 9 sub-animated object maps, and the animated object map may be displayed and controlled quickly. The mode of control, for example, may be a movement, scaling-up

or scaling-down of the animated object map.

Still another advantage of the method and system for providing an Internet-based

map that displays animated objects, is that interactive map information (for example,

facility names, firm names, telephone numbers, categories of businesses) can be displayed

by mapping the detailed information pertaining to all objects on the animated object maps

which are composed of topographical maps and animated objects.

map that displays animated objects is that a relevant home page may be accessed with

banner advertisements included in some animated objects.

map that displays animated objects is that users may reserve something easily and may

quickly receive notification of their reservation.

Claims

1. A method for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated objects,

comprising the steps of:

receiving a map information request signal from a user;

retrieving a map information corresponding to the map information request signal

from a database; and

transmitting the map information to the user,

wherein a mark of the map information is expressed by an animated object that

provides detailed information corresponding to the mark for the user and the

animated object is classified selectively and arranged in accordance with a layer.

2. The method in claim 1, wherein the map information request signal is generated

by a regional retrieval or a key word retrieval.

3. The method in claim 1, wherein the map information is generated by mapping

the detailed information and an animated object map composed of a

topographical map and the animated object.

4. The method in claim 1, wherein the map information comprises a regional map

information of a region corresponding to the map information request signal and adjacent regional map information of adjacent regions.

5. The method in claim 4, wherein the map information comprises a regional map

representing the region, and eight adjacent regional maps representing the

adjacent regions.

6. The method in claim 1, wherein the detailed information comprises at least one

selected from the group consisting of a classified catalog, a facility name, a firm

name, a category of business, a telephone number, a facsimile number, an

address, a URL, whether or not a banner advertisement is provided, a person in

charge of reservations, business hours, seating capacity, parking capacity,

settlement method and whether or not coupons can be used.

7. The method in claim 6, wherein the user is able to access a web site

corresponding to the URL, when the detailed information comprises the URL.

8. The method in claim 1, wherein the animated object is classified as business

facilities, sales facilities, accommodation, industrial equipment, public

institutions, medical facilities, sports facilities, government offices, traffic-

related facilities, educational facilities, research installations, religion-related facilities, admission facilities, assembly facilities, or residence facilities, and

arranged according to a layer.

9. A method for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated objects,

comprising the steps of:

receiving a map information request signal from a user;

from a database;

transmitting the retrieved map information to the user, wherein a mark of the map

corresponding to the mark for the user and a reservation-related animated object is

expressed differently from other animated objects;

if the user inputs an advance order using the map information, receiving the

advance order; and

transmitting the advance order to the business corresponding with the animated

object.

10. The method in claim 9, wherein the map information request signal is generated

by a regional retrieval or a key-word retrieval.

11. The method in claim 9, wherein the map information is generated by mapping

the detailed information on an animated object map, which is composed of a

topographical map and animated objects.

12. The method in claim 9, wherein the map information comprises a regional map

information of a region corresponding to the map information request signal

and an adjacent regional map information of an adjacent region.

13. The method in claim 12, wherein the map information comprises a regional

map representing the region, and eight adjacent regional maps representing the

adjacent regions.

14. The method in claim 9, wherein the detailed information comprises at least one

name, a category of business, a telephone number, a facsimile number, an

address, a URL, whether or not a banner advertisement is provided, a person in

charge of reservations, business hours, seating capacity, parking capacity,

settlement method and whether or not coupons can be used.

15. The method in claim 14, wherein the user is able to access a web site corresponding to the URL, when the detailed information comprises the URL.

16. The method in claim 9, wherein the animated object is classified as business

facilities, sales facilities, accommodation, industrial equipment, public

related facilities, educational facilities, research installations, religion-related

facilities, admission facilities, assembly facilities and residence facilities, and

arranged according to a layer.

17. The method in claim 9, further comprising the steps of:

receiving a result of the advance order from the business; and

transmitting the result of the advance order to the user.

18. The method in claim 9 or claim 17, wherein the means by which an advance

order is transmitted to the business, or the result of an advance order is

transmitted to a user, is selected from a group consisting of facsimile, telephone,

e-mail and SMS (Short Message Service).

19. An apparatus for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated

objects, comprising: means for receiving a map information request signal from a user;

means for retrieving a map information corresponding to the map information

request signal from a database; and

means for transmitting the map information to the user,

wherein a mark of the map information is expressed by an animated object that

provides detailed information corresponding to the mark for the user and the

animated object is classified selectively and arranged according to a layer.

20. An apparatus for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated

objects, comprising:

means for receiving a map information request signal from a user;

means for retrieving a map information corresponding to the map information

request signal from a database;

means for transmitting the retrieved map information to the user, wherein a mark of

the map information is expressed by an animated object that provides detailed

information corresponding to the mark for the user, and a reservation-related

animated object is expressed differently from other animated objects;

if the user inputs an advance order using the map information, means for receiving

the advance order; and

means for transmitting an advance order to a business that corresponds to the mark.

21. An apparatus for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated

images of locations, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor coupled to said storage device,

said storage device storing

a program for controlling said processor; and

said processor operating with said program to receive an map information request

signal from a user;

retrieve a map information corresponding to the map mformation request signal

from a database; and

transmit the map information to the user,

wherein a mark of the map information is expressed by an animated object that

provides detailed information corresponding to the mark for the user and the

22. An apparatus for providing an Internet-based map that displays animated

images of locations, comprising:

a storage device; and

a processor coupled to said storage device, said storage device storing

a program for controlling said processor; and

said processor operating with said program to receive a map information request

signal from a user;

retrieve a map information corresponding to the map information request signal

from a database;

transmit the retrieved map information to the user, wherein a mark of the map

expressed differently from other animated objects;

if the user inputs an advance order using the map information, receiving the

advance order; and

transmitting the advance order to the business corresponding with the animated

object.