WO2020009706A1 - Système et procédé permettant de fournir un contenu orienté utilisateur à un dispositif électronique - Google Patents

Système et procédé permettant de fournir un contenu orienté utilisateur à un dispositif électronique Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2020009706A1
WO2020009706A1 PCT/US2018/041072 US2018041072W WO2020009706A1 WO 2020009706 A1 WO2020009706 A1 WO 2020009706A1 US 2018041072 W US2018041072 W US 2018041072W WO 2020009706 A1 WO2020009706 A1 WO 2020009706A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
user
electronic device
smart box
media
target
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2018/041072
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Luis J. Diaz
John Hand
Norman Sherman
Original Assignee
Gabi Solutions, LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Gabi Solutions, LLC filed Critical Gabi Solutions, LLC
Priority to PCT/US2018/041072 priority Critical patent/WO2020009706A1/fr
Publication of WO2020009706A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020009706A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/258—Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics, processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
    • H04N21/25866—Management of end-user data
    • H04N21/25891—Management of end-user data being end-user preferences
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00—Commerce
    • G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
    • H04N21/266—Channel or content management, e.g. generation and management of keys and entitlement messages in a conditional access system, merging a VOD unicast channel into a multicast channel
    • H04N21/2668—Creating a channel for a dedicated end-user group, e.g. insertion of targeted commercials based on end-user profiles

Definitions

  • the present invention Is directed to a system and method for providing user-centric content to an electronic device.
  • Electronic devices tend to be designed and configured for a paticluar purpose or function. While electronic devices may be multi -function devices, e.g., a multi-function printer, a smart phone that ca make phone calls, takes pictures and play music, the funeiion(s ⁇ are typically pre-programmed, and a user of the device is limited to these preprogrammed functions. However, because an electronic device is preprogrammed for a particular Sanction or functions does not mean those are the only functions the device is capable of performing. To the contrary, many electronic devices are capable of performing functions for "which they are not programmed.
  • a user is limited to the preprogrammed and available functions of an electronic device unless the user pays to upgrade the device to enhance and/or expand its functionality if s currently not possible for a User, in real-time, to use a personal electronic: device like a smartphone to access and control a target electronic device in a way that changes the function or functionality of the target device.
  • MFP multi -function printer
  • this device is configured primarily as a printer and copier, it is also able: to perform functions beyond these
  • a typical MFP is capable of scanning a document and sending it via email by accessing an address book stored in the MFP provided that the user is in front of the MFP and directly controllingit
  • an MFP to email documents to recipients having email addresses in the MFP’s internal address book, email addresses entered by a user, or otherwise obtained by the MFP, optionally with attachments scanned by the MFP.
  • These functions of the MFP are a vailable but limited by the preprogrammed configuration of the MFP,
  • an MFP has on-board intelligence beyond what is necessary to control the core functions of tire printer MFPs have networking functionality, enbabling direct or wireless
  • MFPs are also able to collect and log usage data, including various metrics such as per-nser usage, paper try utilization, toner status, etc.
  • Yet another shortcoming of the prior art is the absence of a system or method for providing user-centric content to a user electronic device that enables the user to producti vely pass the time while watting for a target electronic device to complete a command from the user (c.g , for a mulii-function printer to complete a print command), More specifically, a system or method capable of identifying certain characteristics of the user, the command and the target electronic device, and providing media having content that is at least similar to one or more of the certain characteristics.
  • user characteristics may comprise preferences for: types of media, e.g , video, audio, text; and types of content, e.g., news, sports, educational.
  • Characteristics of the command may compris the type of command, e g., print, copy, fax, email, and characteristics of the target electronic device may comprise the time required to complete the command.
  • a syste or method that can, in response to a command submitted by a user to a target electronic device, identif and select a madia source and/or file of a preferred media type, preferred content type, and of a length that will fill the time required for the target electronic device to complete the command, thereby enabling the entirey of the content to be delivered to the user while waiting for completion of the command.
  • Still another shortcoming lackin in the prior art is a system or method for providin user-centric content to ah electronic device that enables a user to control the length of time the user- centric content plays or is displayed,
  • Still another shortcoming of the prior art is a system or method for enabling a user to control user-centric content with audible commands using a user device control,
  • the present invention is directed to: solving the technical problem of user access fo and control of electronic "devices.
  • the phrase“electronic device 5 ' is used to describe any of a singular electronic device, or one or more electronic devices connected or connectable via any means that can communicate with each other, This phrase is further used in an expansive way, intended to encompass any type of known or hereafter developed electronic device usable in connection with, or suitable for carrying out all or part of, the present invention.
  • user control of certain types of electronic devices is limited to controlling predefined or preconi!gured iimciion(s). The user is limited to the function(s) the device was designed and configured to perform, A user typically cannot change the function, or add functionality to certain types of electronic devices.
  • An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for providing content to a user electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network
  • a plurality of media servers are connected to the network, with each of the plurality of media servers having access to a plurality of media files, and each of the plurality of media files having a playback length
  • the inventive system comprises a smart box. connectable to the network, the smart box having a central processing unit comprising a processor and memory having stored therein general purpose software, and having storable therein smart box special purpose software.
  • the system further comprises a server connectable to the network and having a processor and memory, the memor having stored therein server special purpose software and a user account file associated with the user, the user account file containing a user preference.
  • the syste still further comprises a user device control installable on the user electronic device, wherein the user device control enables a user of the user electronic device to transmit a command t the smart box tor the target electronic device, the target electronic device being capable of completing the command in a time period.
  • the smart box is configured to determine the time period, and to identify at least one of the plurality of media Servers having a target media tile having a characteristic that is at least similar to the user preference and having a playback length not greater than the time period.
  • the smart box i farther configured to transmit the command to the target electronic device, obtain the target media file, and to transmit the targe media file o the user electronic device for playback thereon while the target electronic device perform the command.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is directe to a metho for providing content to a user electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network.
  • a plurality of media servers are connected to the network, each of the plurality of media servers having access to a plurality of media files, and each of the plurality of media files having a playback; length.
  • the inventive method comprises the step of providing a smart box connectable to the network, the smart box having a central processing «nit comprising a processor and memory having stored therein general purpose software, and having storable therein smart box special purpose software.
  • the smart box special purpose software is configured for receiving a command to control a target electronic device, determining a time period for the target electronic device to complete the command, defermraing a user preference, identifying a media server having a target media file having characteristic that at least similar to the user preference and having a playback lengt not greater than the time period, obtaining the target media file, and transmitting the target media file to the user electronic device tor playback thereon while the target electronic device performs the command.
  • Another embodimen of the present invention is directe to a system for providing content to a user electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network.
  • a plurality of media servers are connected to the network, each of the plurality of media servers having access to a plurality of media files, and each of the pluralit of media files having a playback length.
  • the inventive system comprises a smart box connectable to the network, the smart box having a central processing: unit comprising a processor and memory having stored therein general purpose software, and having storable therein smart box special purpose .software.
  • the inventive system further comprises a server connectable to the network and having a processor and memory', the memory having stared therein server special purpose software and a user account file associated with the user, the user account file containing a user preference.
  • the inventive system still further comprises a user device control installable on the user electronic device wherein the user device control enables a user of the user electronic device to transmit a command tp : the smart box lor the target electronic device, the target electronic device being capabl of completing the command in a: time period.
  • the smart box is configured to determine the time period, and to identity at least one of the plurality of media servers having a first media file having a characteristic that is at least similar to the user preference and having a first playback length, and to identif at least one of the plurality of media servers having a second media file having a characteristic that is at least similar to the user preference and having a second playback length.
  • the smart box is further configured to transmit the command to the target electronic device, obtain the first media file, and to transmit the first media file to the user electronic device for playback thereon while the target electronic evice performs the command.
  • the smart box is still further configured to obtain the second media file, and to transmit the second media file to the target electronic device for playback on a display thereof
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for providing content to a user electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network
  • a plurality of media servers are connected to the network, each of the plurality of media servers having access to a plurality of media files, and each of the plurality of media files having a playback length .
  • the inventive metho comprises the step of providing a smart bo connectable to the network the smar box having a central processing unit comprising a processor and memory having store therein general purpose: software, and having storable therein smart box special purpose software.
  • the smart box special purpose software is configured for receiving a command to control a target electronic device, determining a time perio for the target electronic device to complete the command, determining a user preference, identifying a media server having a first media file having a characteristic that is at least similar to the user preference and having a first playback length, identifying a media server having a secon media file haying a characteristic : that is at least similar to the user preference and having a second playback length, obtaining the first media file and the second media file transmitting the first media file to the user electronic device for playback thereon while the target electronic device performs the command, and transmitting the second media file to the; target electronic device for display on a display thereof while the target electronic device performs the command.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for providing content to a user electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network.
  • a plurality of media servers are connected to the network, each of the plurality of media servers having access to a plurality of media files, and each of the plurality of media files having a playback length.
  • the inventive system comprises a smart box connectable to the network, the smart box having a centra! processing unit comprising a processor and memory having stored therein general purpose software, and having storable therein smart box special purpose software.
  • the inventive system further comprises a Server connectable to the network and having a processor and memory, the memory having stored therein server special purpose software and a user account file associated with the user, the user account file containing a user preference.
  • the inventive system still further comprises a user device control installable on the user electronic device, wherein the user device control enables a user of the: user electronic device to transmit a command to the: smart box tor the targe electronic device, the target electronic device being capable of completing the command in a time period.
  • the smart box is configured to determine a playback time, and to identify at least one of the plurality of media servers having at least one target media tile having a characteristic that is at least similar to the user preference and having a playback length at least as long as the playback time.
  • the smart bok is further configured to transmit the command to the target electronic device, obtain the at least One target media file, and to transmit the at least One target media file to the user device control for playback on the user electronic device while the target electronic dc ⁇ ice performs the command.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for providing content to a user electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network.
  • a plurality of media servers are connected to the network, each of the plurality of media servers having access to a plurality of media files, and each of the plurality of media files having a playback length.
  • the inventive system comprises a smart box connectable to the network, the smart bo having a central processing unit comprising a processor and memory having stored therein general purpose software, and having : storable therein smart box special purpose software.
  • the inventive system further comprises a server connectable to the network and having a processor and memory, the memory having stored therein server special purpose software and a user account file associated with the user, the user account file containing a user preference.
  • the inventive system still further comprises a user device control installable on the user electronic device, wherein the user device control enables a user of the user electronic device to transmit a command t the smart box for the target electronic device the target electronic device being capable of completing the command in a time period.
  • the smart box is configured to determine a cost for the target electronic device to complete the command, and to determine a revenue value of a target media file, and to identify at least one of the plurality of media servers having at least one target media file : having a characteristic that is at least similar to the user preference and a revenue value not less than the cost.
  • the smart, box is further configure to transmit the command to the target electronic device, obtai tire at least one target media file, and to transmit the at least one target media file to the user device control for playback on the user electronic device while the target electronic device performs the command.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for providing content to a user electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network.
  • a plurality of media Servers are connected to the network, each of the plurality of media Servers having: access to a plurality of media tiles, each of tire plurality of media files having a revenue value.
  • the Inventive method comprises the step of providing a smart box connectable to the network, the smart box having a central processing unit comprising a processor an memor having stored therein general purpose software, and having storable therein smart box special purpose software .
  • the smart box special purpose software is configured for receiving a. command to control a target electronic device, determining a cost for the target electronic device to complete the command, determining a user preference, identifying a media server having a target media file having a revenue value not less than the cost for the target electronic device to complete the: command, obtaining the target media file, and transmitting the target media fife to the user electronic device for playback thereon while the: target electronic device performs the command.
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for providing content to a riser electronic device connectable to a target electronic device over a network,
  • a plurality of media servers is connected to the network, each of the plurality of media servers having access to a plurality of media files, and each of the plurality of media files having a playback length.
  • the method comprises; the step of providing a smart box connectable to the network, the smart box having a central processing unit comprising a processor and memory having stored therein general purpose software, and having storable therein smart box special purpose software.
  • the smart b x special purpose software i configured to receiving a command to control a target electronic device, determining a time perio for the target electronic device to complete the command, determining a user preference, identifying a media server having a target media file having a characteristic that is at least similar to the user preference and having a playback length not greater than: the time period, obtaining the target media file, transmitting the target media file to the user electronic device for playback thereon while the target electronic device performs the command, and receiving an audible comman comprising a wafai-up wor causing the smart box to transition from a first; state to a second state.
  • a network architecture for accessing and controlling a target electronic device comprises a smart box connectable to the network , controller located at an edge of the network and a server connectable to the network.
  • the inventive configuration of the server, smart box, and controller create a unique and unconventional network architecture that enables a user of a user electronic device to cause the target electronic device to perform a function selectable by the user, hut that may not be a function native to the target electronic ⁇ device.
  • the present invention locates the ability to acces and control the function and functionality of electronic devices with a user at a network edge.
  • the inventive and unique network architecture of embodiments of the present invention thus places an intelligence aspect of electronic devices in the hands of users of the electronic devices at a network edge.
  • the phrase intelligence aspect refers to the ability to control the function or functionality of an electronic device
  • suc control is limited in reac and scope.
  • users are not able to change the function or functionality of an electronic device.
  • Embodiments of the present invention enable «sens to do just that by creating a novel and non-obvious network architecture that is tied to a specific structure, connection and arrangement of components, purposefully structured, connected and arranged to achieve the inventive technological solution of the present invention.
  • the inventive concept of the present invention is found not only in the unconventional use of the conventional, user electronic device, smart box, and server, but also in the unconventional structure, connection and arrangement of known, conventional components creating a unique network architecture.
  • the present invention introduces a paradigm shift in the way electronic devices are accessed and controlled by creating a user-centric environment that transfers control over the function and functionality of a target electronic device from the device itself fi , a: device-centric environment) to a user electronic device (he,, a user-centric environment). While the prior art teaches rudimentary access to an control of an electronic device from a user electronic device te.g., controlling your thermostat from your mobile phone), embodiments of the present invention enable a user to not onl control ⁇ the electronic device, but to add functionality, change functionality, or otherwise modify the operatio of the electronic device.
  • the user-centric tty created by the present invention places, in each unique user’s hands, the ability to effect such control over a target electronic device in accordance with that unique user’s needs or desires. And because of the ubiquity of personal user electronic devices, the present Invention eliminates user learning curves for new devices. Integration issues associated with adding/replacing devices, and restrictions on available functionality from pre- eonfigured devices.
  • embodiments of the present invention are tied: to a specific structure, connection and arrangement of components, purposefully structured, connected and arranged to achieve an inventive technological solution to it technological problem specific to electronic devices and systems ⁇ the inability of a nscr to control the function and functionality of such devices and systems. " Whereas the prior art, representing a device-centric environment, restricts control of electronic devices and systems to either authorized entities (e.g., manufacturers, service personnel, etc.), users in proximity, or users with only access and control limited to the pre -configuration of the device, the present invention creates a.
  • an. intelligence aspect of electronic devices and systems is relocated from the device itself to an edge of a network within which the devices and systems operate - one such edge being defined from the perspective of each unique user’s electronic: device looking inward Into the network ⁇ thus creating a user-Gentrie network architecture and environment. That intelligence aspect is control over the function and functionality of the devices and systems which, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, is now in the hands of each user.
  • the present invention provides universality in its solution to the problems with the prior art discussed above. More specifically, the present invention advantageously recognizes that a user of a smartphone for example, does not encounter a learning curve when additi onal features are added to the smartphone, or when the smartphone is used in a new way, as with the present invention. Rather, the introduction of new features and functionality to the user via the user’s smartphone is relatively seamless. Thus, the present invention enables a user to change the function and/or functionality of a target electronic device without having to learn how to use that device to perform the tiew/ehanged function,
  • the present invention also advantageously provides universality across controllable electronic devices. Regardless of the type of device, or of the manufacturer of a device type (e.g. Facebook HP, Dell, Canon, etc. for MFPs) to be accessed and controlled, the present invention enables a user electronic device to access and control an electronic device by separating the user interface from the target electronic device and placing it with the : user on a platform with which the user is familiar.
  • the present invention thus makes its technology Ifietioniess, as the user need not care or know about the type of electronic device being accessed or controlled to realize the advantages of the present invention.
  • the present invention also advantageously extends a periphery about an electronic device from in-tact proximity to the device, to a smart box connectable to the electronic device over a network, and to a user electronic device in so doing, die present invention not only places access to and control over electronic devices to which tile user desires to connect Or interact in the user’s hand, the present invention further makes such access and control user-centric.
  • the present invention introduces a. paradigm shift from a device-centric world to a user-centric worl with respect to accessing and controlling: electronic devices in a way that enables the user to change the function or functionality of the device.
  • a user Prior to the present invention, a user could access and control an electronic device, but the control was limited to the functions and functionality preprogrammed into the electronic: device.
  • a user can change and/or add functionality to a target electronic device. What an electronic device is able to do is no longer limited to how it was programmed Rather, the present in vention places control of the functionality of an electronic device in the hands of a user, creating a user-centric, edge-base intelligence in a network.
  • the present inventio also advantageously provides a user with content particular to that user, i e., user-centric content, that serves to engage the user during times when the user i typically idle, wit the potential to improve user productivity.
  • a target electronic device may utilize 2-iaetor: authentication such as, by way of illustratio and not limitation biometric authentication, by utilizing functionality native to a user electronic device and by causing, by virtue of the present invention, the target electronic device to employ 2-factor authentication.
  • 2-iaetor authentication such as, by way of illustratio and not limitation biometric authentication, by utilizing functionality native to a user electronic device and by causing, by virtue of the present invention, the target electronic device to employ 2-factor authentication.
  • the present invention leverages the nativity of a function (e g., 2-factor biometric authentication) on the user electronic device to enable the MFP (ie,, the target electronic device) to respond as if the function is nati ve to the MFP in still further accordance with embodiments of the presen t Invention, intelligent usage and management of a target electronic device is possible through access to, and collection and analysis of usage data already collected by the target; device. Prior to the present invention, Such data was not readily available, certainly not to users of the target electronic devfce(s), and certainly not by these users to : intelligently use and manage the target device.
  • a function e g., 2-factor biometric authentication
  • FIG, 1 is a schematic diagram of a system and network architecture in accordance with cm bodlment of the present invent! on
  • FIG. 2 depicts a single hoard computer of a smart box in accordance with embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG 3 depicts the structure and function of a user device control in accordance with embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a smart box start-up and configuration process in accordance with embodi ments of the; present invention
  • FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a user electronic device start-up, configuration and use process in accordance with embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG 6 depicts ihe : structure an function of special purpose software of a server in accordance with embodimen ts of the present in veution;
  • FIGS, 7 A - 7,1 depict screen shots of Interfaces provided by a user device control on a user device in accordance with embodiments of the present in vention:
  • FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method for providing user-centric content: to a user electronic device in accordance with embodiments of the present inven tion ;
  • FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a method for providing liser-eentric content to user electronic device, by xvhieh a user controls the playback time for the eon tent;
  • FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a method for providing user -centric content to a user electronic device, where a cost is associated with a target electronic device for completing a command, and where the conten t has a revenue value that is not less than the cost.
  • the phrase personal electronic device or user electronic device means, by way of illustration and not limitation, smartphones, tablets, mobile computers, desk-top computers, mobile Internet devices laptops, wearable computers, calculator watches, smartwatches, head-mounted displays, personal digital assistants, enterprise digital assistants, handheld game consoles, portable medi players, calculators* digital still cameras, digital video cameras, personal navigation devices, and smart cards, or any other known or hereaffer developed personal electronic device,
  • FIGS 1 and 2 respectively depict a schematic diagram of a system 100 and network architecture 200, and a single board computer 122 of a smart box. 1 10 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • the system 100 comprises a smart box 1 10, a user device control 160 installable on a user electronic device 20, and a server 130 that are connected or connectable to a private networ 12 or a public network 10 and are in communication with each other and with electronic devices 30,
  • the smart box 1 10 and electronic devices 30 are part of a private network 12, while the server 130 and user electronic devices: 20 are part of a public network 10
  • the smart box 110 may be part of the public network 10, yet be connectable to another smart box 110 or electronic device 30 that are both part of a private network 12,
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide the user device control 160 at an edge 210 of flue network, thus placing the ability to control the function or functionality of an electronic device in the hands of users at the network edge 210,
  • the server BO may be implemented, by way of non-limiting example, at least in part based on the machine learning platform provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud computing and storage services.
  • the server 130 carries out certain administrative functions of the present invention, For example, the server 130 communicates initially with a smart bo 1 10 when the smart: box 1 10 first connects to the network and comes on line ln this capacity, licensing and configuration data 134c previously saved as :a data file i 34 in server data storage 136 is communicated to the smart box 1 10 an usable by the smart box IT0 for its initial configuration. Further configuration of the smart box 110 may be required and performed by an administrator, as described in more detail herein.
  • the server 130 also communicates software updates to a smart box 1 10 as necessary, which are stored as an update data file 134 b. This communication occurs automatically and is managed by a scheduler on one or both of the server 130 arid smart box 110,
  • the server 130 is also a repository for usage data and statistics for the electronic devices in the network 10, 12.
  • the data and statistics are acquired from each electronic device 30 by the smart bo 1 10, and communicated thereby to the server 130, where the data and statistics are stored as device stats 134a in a data file 134, A separate device slats data file 1 4 is created for each target electronic device 30, and that file can be used to intelligently use and manage the target device 30,
  • the server 130 also cormmnricates initially with a user electronic device 20 through the user device control 160 to create an account for and authenticate the user, and to bring the user electronic de vice 20 online.
  • the server 130 has a processor and memory having stored therein general purpose software comprisirig commands or instructions executable by the processor for carrying out basic functions of the server 130, and special purpose software 132 comprising commands or instructions executable by the processor for carrying out aspects of the present invention, See also FIG. 6.
  • general purpose software comprisirig commands or instructions executable by the processor for carrying out basic functions of the server 130
  • special purpose software 132 comprising commands or instructions executable by the processor for carrying out aspects of the present invention, See also FIG. 6.
  • I T server 130 has data storage 136 that may be part of or separate from the server 1 0
  • One or more data files 134 created by use of the present invention are stored in the data storage 136 a one or more; files or databases.
  • Exemplary type or categories of files or databases are depicted in FIGS. ! and 6 and comprise data relating to electronic devices 30 such as device statistics, updates and service tickets, and licensing and configuration data relating to a user and the smart box 1 10 and user device control 160,
  • device stats 134a created by an electronic device 30 is capturable by the smart box 11 (3, and may be transmitted thereby to the serve 130 at predetermined times.
  • Such device stats 134a are currently created by an MFP, for example, but are not currently capturable nor captured by any dev ice other than the MFP, Embodiments of the present invention capture that data and transmi t ft to the server 130 for storage and later use.
  • Data file 134 may also comprise update data 134b for updates for one or more electronic devices 30 that are trausmittablc, downloadable, etc from the server 130 to the electronic device 30. Updates may include, by way of non-limiting example, updates tor general operation and function of the smart box 1 10, and updates for operation and function of inventive aspects of the smart box 110.
  • Data files 134 may further comprise licensing and configuration data 134c that is unique for, and specific to a particular smart box 1 10.
  • Licensing and configuration data 134c generally comprises information provided by an administrator of a smart: box 1 10, for example, that is used to define certain operational parameters for the smart box i 10, as well as data provided by the server 130,
  • licensing and configuration data134c for a company may include the format of a user’s email, the number of users, the number of electronic devices 30, identifiers for each electronic device 30 (e.g , IP address), codes specific to the company and/or a group or department within the company, an API key unique to each smart box 110 that comprises a license ID and machine key, essentiall a user name and password for the smart box 1 10, and other dat and information that serve to define connection and communication rules between a smart box 1 10, the server 130, a user electronic device 20, and one or more target electronic devices 30.
  • Data files 134 may also comprise service ticket data L34d collected by the smart box
  • Sendee ticket data 134d may he generated by a user or by an electronic device 30, indicative of a state of the electronic device 30 that may require intervention, e,g., paper jam, toner cartridge replacement, etc.
  • the server special purpose software 132 may comprise an application programming interface, or API, that function as a REST- based API endpoint for communication with the smart box 110 and/or user electronic device 20. Communication between and among the various electronic devices may use java script object notation.
  • the API special purpose software 132 Is structured based upon sub -components that provide micro-services within the APl that may include, by way of non-limiting example, storing data received from a smart box l ift about one or more electronic devices 30, providing updates to a smart box 110, routing service ticket requests, and other selectively programmable micro-services that may facilitate communication between and among smart boxes 1 10, user electronic device 20, target electronic devices 30, and Other devices and systems, either in the private network 12, the public network 10, or a combination of both.
  • the special purpose software 1.32 may additionally comprise a user device control 100 uplqadafaie to : a: user device 20 that provides a user interface 700 (see, e.g., FIG. 7A). While in a preferred embodiment the user device control 160 is an applicationdownloadable by/to a user electronic device from an app store, an alternative embodiment provides access to download the user device control 160 frora the server 30.
  • the smart box 110 generally functions as a universal controller that manages and controls communication by, between and among tk variou electronic devices that comprise the present invention, as well as the various electronic devices with which the present invention accesses and con trols.
  • the majority of communicati on by the user device 20 via the user device control 160 is receive by or at least passes through tire smart box 110.
  • the smart box 1 10 is thus able to, and does in fact, capture much of the data and information created by use of the present invention, including data created by target electronic devices 30.
  • the special purpose software 1 1.2 of the smart box i 10 functions as an API endpoint for the user device control 160.
  • the smart box 110 also controls all user access to and control of target elec tronic devices 30 from a plurality of user device controls 160. f0040f
  • the smart box 110 may comprise a single board computer 122 having a central processing unit 114 comprising a processor 124 and memory 126 having stored therein general purpose software comprising commands or instruc tions executable by the processor to carry out basic function of the smart box 1 10.
  • basic functions of the smart box 1 10 enable the smart box 1 10 to powe up and communicate and control communication over a variety of interfaces T16, such as USB, Ethernet, video, audio, and HDMI
  • Each smart box 1 10 may preferably be configured with dual Ethernet ports in order to communicate with each of an Ethernet-based pri vate local area network 12 and an electronic device 30.
  • Each smart box 110 serves as an intermediary that employs its Ethernet interlace to monitor communications of its associated electronic devices 30 via the private network 12, provide instructions to be executed by the electronic device 30, and retrieve data from the electronic device 30.
  • An exemplary single board computer 122 is available from the Raspberry Pi
  • Foim aiion, model number Raspberry Pi 3 Model BA This model is a credit card-sized computer powered by a Broadcom BCM283S central processing unit (system-on-a-ehip) 1 14 that: includes a 32-bit ARM1 176JZFS processor 124, clocked at 700MHz, a Videocore IV Graphics Processing Unit, and 256MB of random access memory 126.
  • the single board computer 122 is powered by a 5V AC charger connectable to a micro USB port 1 18. It will be obvious to persons skille in the art andfrom the disclosure provided herein that other single board computers may be used in connection with the present invention.
  • the smart bo 1 10 further comprises special purpose software 112 storable in memory 126 comprising commands or instructions executable by the processor that enables the smart box 110 to cany out certain inventive aspects of the present invention in a preferred embodiment.
  • the special purpose softwar 1 12 may comprise an API with programmable functionality.
  • The: API special purpose software 1 12 i structured based upon subcom onents that provide micro-services within the API tha may include, by way of non-limiting example, copy, email, collect, and service, as well a other selectively programmable functionality. Any of the foregoing may be enhanced by voice-enable or two-factor biometric authentication aspects of embodiments of the present invention.
  • Each micro-service calls a unique API path for the desired functionality ⁇ the path being to at least one of the smart: box 1.1.
  • the special purpose software 11 is selectivel programmable and adaptable to ehange/add/delete one or more functions it provides.
  • FIG. 4 An exemplary process 400 for initial configuration of the smart box 110 is depicted in FIG. 4.
  • a smart box 1 10 is pre-programmed with an API key comprised of a license ID and machine key, each unique to the smart box 110 and that together function as a user name (license ID) and password (machine key).
  • a smart box 110 Prior to a smart box 110 first use, it is programmed with certain data and information to enable it to connect to server 13ft upon power-up and to effect a handshake between the server 130 anti smart bo 110.
  • the smart box 110 initially cycles through a start-up sequence or process when power Is first applied at step 402.
  • the general purpose software of the smart box 1 10 establishe a connection oyer the: network U) or pri vate network 12 to the server 130 at step 404 ant! transmits the API key to the server 130 - communicating with the server API 132.
  • the server API 132 is configured to detect and identify the smart box 1 10, and to transmit configuration data to the s art box 1 10, at step 406.
  • the configuration data was previously constructed as licensing and configuration data 134c stored in data storage 134 of the server 130 based upon information provided by a system administrator, tor example.
  • Configuration of the smart box 110 is controlled by the API special -purpose software 11:2, and is set by the licensing and configuration data file 134e, Once the licensing and data configuration file 134c is installed on the smart box 130, the smart box 110 is operational and ready to connect with user electronic devices 30 and carry out aspects of the present invention. ⁇ >044
  • the server 130 and/or smart box 1 10 may be configured to transmit/ receive regular software updates.
  • At least one of tile Server API 132 and smart box API 1 12 ensures that the updates are intelligently communicated, ensuring that updates to the smart bo 110 do not bypass sequential updates, i.e,, preventing an update from version 1 ,1 to version 1 ,9, where intermediate versions contain important update that ma or may not: be included in the most recent update,
  • the user device 20 may be any electronic device capable of carrying out aspects of the present invention as disclosed herein. Preferred embodiments include, by way of non-limiting example, a smartphone or tablet. Other electronic devices 20 are also disclosed herein, and are: thu contemplated by, and within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as are any hereafter developed electronic device capable of carrying out aspects of the present invention as disclosed herein.
  • a user desiring to utilise the present invention installs the user device control 160 on a user electronic device 20.
  • the user device control 160 is preferably an app downloadable to the user electronic device 20 from an app store or from foe server 130, Once the app is installed, the user can launch the user device control 160 to utilize aspects of the present invention.
  • a startup and configuration process 500 for a user electronic device 20 is depicted.
  • the user first downloads the user device control. 160 from an app store or from the server 130 to the user device 20, at step 502, an launches the user device control 160 at step 504.
  • the user device control 160 provides a plurality of user interfaces that enable the user to utilize aspects of foe present invention.
  • the user device control 160 determines if the u ser i s a new user at step 512, In which case the user can create an account on the server 130, step 506, and thereafter use the user device control 1 0, smart box 110 and server 130 to access and control a target electronic device 30 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • users as detected at step 512, can login at step 510 and thereafter use the user device control 160, smart box 1 10 and serve* 130 to access and control a target electronic device 30 In accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • the user device control 160 provides interlaces and carries out certain inventive aspects of ⁇ he present invention.
  • the user device control 160 When launched, the user device control 160 provides a user interface 700 on a display of the user electronic device via which the user can utilize aspects of the present invention.
  • the user i terface 700 comprises a plurality of screens, as depicted in FIGS 7 A - 7 J, each of which provide a user with access to aspects of the present invention.
  • the user device control 160 When launched, the user device control 160 provides the user interface 700 A depicted in FIG. 7A as a home screen via which a user can either select login (returning user) 702 or register (first-time user) 704 A first-time user must select register 704, and will then be prompted to enter a unique Company Code 706 via the user interface 700B depicted in FIG. 78.
  • That information is transmitted to the server 130, which creates an account for the user if the information entered by the user matc es information in the licensing and configuration data 134c.
  • the server 130 transmits an email wit a temporary PIN to the user email address, wlue queries the user to verify the mail by return response that includes the temporary PIN and the permanent PIN, if the email address, temporary PIN and permanent PIN match data on the serve 130, the new user account is validated.
  • a company my permit self-validation by empowering the administrator to indicate which of the users attempting to register are authorized users , If this is enabled, an administrator will have access to a list of users attempting to register, and. can indicate (by check-box, for example) which users are authorized - this exchange occurring between the server 130 and administrator, with the information regarding validated users being captured and stored by the server 130.
  • FIG. 7A arc next presented with the user interface 7Q0G depicted in FIG. 7C, and prompted to enter an email address 708 and PIN 710.
  • a user Once logged in, a user will be prompted as to whether that user is proximate the target electronic device, ie., the multi -function printer, m depicted in FIG. 7D, in which the user interface 700D present a prompt 712 to the user.
  • Two-factor, biometric authentication may be selectively required by, for example, fingerprint authentication 714, in which case the user interface 700E depicted in FIG. ?E will be provided by the user device control 160.
  • This aspect of the present invention leverages certain functionality native to the user electronic device 20 that may not be native to the target electronic device 30 to cause that device 30 to carry out or utilize the native functionality ln this case, t e user electronic.
  • device 20 is capable of carrying out two-factorauthentication using biometric data as one factor, and embodiments of the present invention enable that function to be used in connection wit the target eiectronie device 30
  • user interface " OOf prompts the user to a biometric authentication .
  • Hie user s login name aid permanent PIN, for example, were previousl stored on the user electronic device 20 i a secure memory location only accessible wit biometric information from the user, e.g., a fingerprint read by the user electronic device 20
  • the present invention prevent unauthorized access to the target,: electronic device 30 or other aspects of the present invention without biometric authentication, when that functionality is not nati ve to the target device 30.
  • the user can access and utilize the present invention through user interface 700F depicted in FIG 7F, which provides the user with a plurality of functions the user may select to access and control an electronic device 30.
  • these functions include, by wa of non-limiting exam ple, copy 720, emai l 730, collect 740 an service 750
  • the user can also use voice activation 760 to carry-out aspects of the present invention, or log out 716.
  • Each of these functions maps to API commands within the user device control 160, and to the smart box 110 which, in turn, accesses and control a target eleetrohie device 30 to enable that device to perform or respond to the selecte function.
  • This aspect of the present invention leverages certain functionality native to the user eiectronie device 20 that may not be native to the target electronic device 30 to cause that device 30 to cany-out or utilise the native fimctionality.
  • the user eteetrofiie device 20 is capable of responding to audible commands, and embodiment of the present invention enable that function to be used in connection with the target electronic device 30, when that functionality is not native to the target device 30.
  • the smart box 1 10 Is pre-programmed for use in a specific network an network configuration, and to know the credentials of electronic devices 30 in its network, Parameters for pre-programming the smart box P 0 are provided, at least in part, by a person or entity involved with the configuration, setup and operation of aspects of the present invention.
  • pre-programming parameters may include, by way of non-limiting example, IP addresses of each electronic device 30 in the network to he accessed and controlle by the present invention.
  • This information is saved a a licensing and configuration data 134c as a data file 134 in data storage 136 of the server 130 , and is also associated with a unique company code that maps a smart box 110 to the licensing and configuration data 134c.
  • the smart box i 10 is initially programmed with an API key that includes a license ID and machine ke unique to the smart box 110
  • the smart box 110 communicates the API key to die server 130 as user name or login ID and password.
  • the server 130 identifie the data file 134 for this smart box 1 10, and returns the licensing and configuration data 134c to the smart box 110.
  • the server 130 sends an email, text, or other communication to a destination previously identified when programming parameters were provided about the smart box 1 10.
  • a hyper-link is provided that, when selected by the administrator, connects the administrator to the smart box 1 10 as a console, providing the administrator with access to certain control functions for the smart box 1 10 and its configuration.
  • the administrator will have access to a pull-down menu on which each electronic device 30 that is accessible and controllable using the present invention is identified. To enable acces and control of each device 30 by the smart box 1.
  • the administrator provides super-user credentials for each electronic device 30.
  • This enables the smart box 1 10 and user device control 160 to access a target electronic device 30 as a super-user (i.e., as an administrator, service, tech, manufacturer, etc.) and gai access to data captured and stored by/on the electronic de vice 30.
  • the smart box 110 sits i « an idle state until a user, using th user device control 160, chooses to execute a command to utilize aspects of the present invention. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the smart box 110 is able to communicate with the server 130 and receive configuration updates from the server 130, as depicted in the flow diagram of FIG. 4
  • Voice recognition functionality may be provided by embodiments of the present invention through interaction between the user electronic device 20 and a voice recognition server 150 such as, by wa of non-limiting : example, IBM Watson.
  • a voice recognition server 150 such as, by wa of non-limiting : example, IBM Watson.
  • a user invokes this functionality with voice command captured or received by an audio interface 170 such as a speaker/nnerophone on the user electronic device 20, or stand-alone speaker/microphone, see, e,gcken FIG. 1 and voice activation 760 interface of the user device control 160 in FIG. 7F.
  • audio captore/receptipn device causes the voice recognition feature and aspects of the present invention to change from ah inactive or passive state, where audio is received by the audio interface 170, but no action is invoked in response thereto, to an active state, where audio is received by the audio interface 170 and causes the smart box 1 10 fo react according to the content of the received audio. Transition from the inactive to active state is caused by receipt by the audio interface 170 of one or more specific: words, terms or phrases, referred to herein as a wake-up word which causes the smart box 1 ID to perform one or more specific acts or take one or more specific actions,
  • the voice recognition server 150 will carry out the steps of converting speech to text, natural language processing (NLP), and text to speech, via special purpose software indicated as .152 in FIG, 1 , Using an audio interface 1 70 on the user electronic device 20 » or a stand-alone, speaker/microphone 170, a user may speak instructions when using the present invention, thu causing a non- voice activated target electronic device 30 to respond to voice commands.
  • NLP natural language processing
  • die smart box 110 will access a voice recognition sendee to receive, analyze, and parse the voice commend, and to return a response; to the smart box 110 that is then in a format that is traosmiftable to and understandable by an electronic device 30, and that whic can cause or enable the electronic device 30 to perform the requested function.
  • a voice command spoken by a user into an audio interface 170 of the users electronic device 20 or into the siand-alone speaker/miorpphoiie is transmitted by the user device control I o0 to the smart box 110, or received by the smart box 1 10, respectively, which identifies the command as a voice command, and transi ts it via a secure connection to a voice recognition server 150, such as IBM Watson or Amazon Web Services ( w AWS”) platform.
  • Communication betwee smart box 110 and voice recognition server 150 is preferably Transport Layer Security (TLS) L2.
  • Voice recognition may alternatively be implemented in a variety of other ways, including by means of the server 130 and data storage 136 in combination with an associated smart box 1 10, or by another specialized server and data storage.
  • Special purpose software in the form of an API 152 may be provided on the voice recognition server 150, and be configured with speech to text, NLP, and text to speech capabilities.
  • the voice recognition server 150 returns text commands to the smart bo 1 10, for transmission thereby to the target electronic device 30.
  • a user ean access the copy function of the present invention via the user interface 7D0F depicted in FIG, 7F, and by selecting Copy 720, after which the user is presented with the user interface 700G depicted in FIG. 7G. Via this user interface 700G the user can control the target electronic device 30 and cause it to cany out various commands associated with rising that device 30 for copying document.
  • a user can access the email function of the present invention via the user interlace 700F depicted in FIG, 7F, and by selecting Email 730.
  • the user device control 160 then presents the user interface 700H depicted in FIG . 7H, enabling a user to use the present inven tion to cause a target electronic device 30, an MFP in this case, to send an email to a recipient selected by the user without access to the email list of the MFP
  • the present invention thus accesses data and informatio native to the user electronic device 20 or particular to the user, in this case, the: user's email address book 736 This enables the user to cause the target electronic device 30 to send an email to a recipient that is not known to that device 30
  • the present invention enables a user to access and control an MFP to Cause that MFP to carry out a firnctian different than the functions it is configured to carry out.
  • the present imcntion Anther uses native technology of the user electronic device 20 to leverage already existing connections and permissions (e.g,, login details) to facilitate access to documents, services, applications, etc , for various types of user accounts. For example, a user need not enter login credentials for access to files stored in a DROPBO account in order to access these files for use by the present invention, in effect enabling the target electronic device 30 to access these files: without requiring the user's login credentials,
  • the smart bo 1 10 also has the abilit to determine whether a user is violating a predefined rule.
  • email rules may be defined regarding permitted and/or restricted email addresses. That information may be stored in a data file 134 on the server 130, in memory on the smart bo 1 10, or both.
  • the smart box 1 10 and/or server 130 can compare the: entail recipient against a white-list of permitted recipients, or a black-list of restricted recipients, to determine if the email should be sent.
  • a user ca access the collect function of the present Invention via the user interface 700P depicted in FIG, 7Pj an by selecting Collect 740, which provides user interface 7001 depicted in FIG. 71.
  • This function enables a user to collect secure documents at the target electronic device 30, in this case the MFP, that can only be printed by the user,
  • the server 130 access the service ticket data 134d database to determine the contact rules for service tickets for the subject electronic device 30, and transmits the service call to the recipient identified in the service ticket data T34d database for the subject device 30.
  • Any of the afore-discussed functions may also be accessed using voice recognition via the user interface 700F depicted in FIG 7F, and selecting the microphone 760, or by speaking the wake-up word into an audio interface 170,
  • the functions available to the user via the user interface 700 provide access to further functions.
  • copy 720 and email 730 functions may provide an option to charge a client or customer for use of the electronic device 30. It is typical for law firms and accounting forms, for example, to charge clients fo copies.
  • a code must be entered designating the correct ebarge-to entity before the electronic device 30 can be used.
  • the present Invention enables a user to access one or more databases of such codes located on the server 130, a remote server or other data storage device that Is not connected to and may not be in the same: network as the electronic device 30 being accessed and controlled.
  • the user interface 70OG for the copy 720 function is depicted in FIG, 7G, and includes a“Bill To” pull-down menu 722 which provides the user with access to a database of client codes selectable by the user to designate a client to charge for use of the electronic device 30.
  • the clien codes accessible to the user via the pulldown menu have been previously mapped to the user’s account, thus providing limited and user- speeiil c in formation.
  • the user interface 7001-1 for the email 730 function is depicted in Fid 7H, and includes a "Bill To” pull-down menu 732 which provides the user with access to a database of client codes selectable by the user to designate a client to charge for use of the electronic device 30
  • This user interface 70011 also includes a“Recipient” field 734 that can be populated with one or more email addresses selected from the user’s contacts.
  • an MFP can be configured an used to send email, it is limited to the contacts programmed into the MFP
  • the email function of an MFP is accessed and controlled in a way that enables the user to send emails .from the MFP to recipients in the user’s contact list, or from a contact list that is not known by the MFP or Other electronic device 30.
  • Another embodiment; of the present invention provides the ability to intelligently manage one or more target electronic devices 30.
  • the smart box 1 10 has super-usci acces to data -collected and stored by an electronic device 30, Such data provides a variet of useful information about usage of the electronic de vice 30 such as, for example, which paper trays are used most often, time-based use of the device 30, and ther use and operational characteristics and data of the device 30.
  • the smart box 1 10, having access to this data may use this data to intelligently control use of the electronic device 30, Fo example, if an MFP has a plurality of paper trays configured for the same size paper, with one tray being a default tray, that tray is likely to be used more often than th others. As a result, parts of that tray are exposed to more use than parts f the other trays. Knowing this, the: present invention can direct print, copy, etc , commands to effect a more uniform use of the target electronic device 30, This will result in greater longevity for the parts of the electronic device 30, an a reduction in service calls and repair .
  • the present invention can also be used to automate certain service conditions for target electronic device 30.
  • a type of device like an MFB there may be a finite set of problems that occur with the greatest frequency.
  • the smart box 110 can be configured to automatically detect the occurrence of such a problem at a target electronic device 30 and automatically create : a service call wi hout the need for user involvement.
  • a licensing and data configuration file 134c may contain information specific to this user, including rules that define authorized and unauthorized features this user is permitted to access, and other rales defining permissible use by this use of the electronic device 30 it is thus possible for the smart box 1 10 to initially flag a command from a user, and to communicate with the server 130 to determine whether the command violates a rale for that user.
  • Server 130 may, for example, be configured as an artificial intelligence-based analysis engine capable of analyzing a risk level associated with the command based on data gathered by a smart box 1 10 for similar commands made on the electronic dev ice 30 as well as otlici similar electronic devices 30 (e.g., electronic dewees 30 in the sam.0 private network 12)
  • the server 130 can thus determine whether the command is an exception, and if so, whether the exception has been or can be resolved.
  • the smart box 110 functions as a universal controller, controlling user access to and use of electronic devices 30 When a command is received by the smart box .1 i t), it can determine if the command is : an exception that is out of compliance with, rules for the user.
  • server 130 may transmi information back to the smart bo 1 10 providing a disposition insfruefion with respec to the instruction, e.g., indicating that the command ha been executed or not.
  • In assessing a command and determining whether it’s an exceptio or there is a risk, server 130 will consider past experience with the requesting user, the electronic device 30.
  • the server 130 may prepare a request disposition and transfer this information to the smart box 1 10 to guide the response of the smart box 110 to the document production request.
  • the response disposition may authorize the smart box 110 to instruct the electronic device 30 to proceed to fulfill the documen t request in its entiret (‘‘green light”),
  • th request disposition may instruct the smart box 1 10 to provide altered instructions to the document processing device (“yellow light”).
  • the request disposition may Instruct the smart bo 1 10 to diminish the requested number of copies or rate of printing of copies as would be expected in response it the production request.
  • the smart box 1 10 may be instructed to forward the document request to another smart; box 1.1.0 associated with an electronic device 30 that, for example, has been reserved and isolated for production requests identified as presenting some risk.
  • the server 130 conclude that the production request presents a significant risk or is well outside the limits of associated production features and permissions, the: request disposition may call for the rejection of the production request (“red light”). If the product request is: at least partially executed, the smart box 1 10 may preferably collect execution information from the electronic device 30 providing details about the execution and/or information about the current slate and resources available to the electronic device 30,
  • Another embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system and method for providing user-cenfrie content to a user electronic device 20, In accordance with this embodiment.
  • content will be provided to a user of an electronic device 30 when the user is proximate to and preferably using the electronic device 30, and while the user is waiting for the electronic device 30 to complete a task (Le , command) initiated by or for the user. For example, if a user is printing or copying a document using a multi-function printer, the user may wait while the printer is completing the task - typically waiting idly.
  • a media file or a part of a media file having user-centric content is provided to the user for display, playback, etc , while the user aits:.
  • the media file or part of the medi file has a length that is similar to or the same as the length of time necessary for the electronic device 30 to complete the command.
  • a user creates a user account at step 506 that is stored as a user account file I34e (see, e.g., FIG 1).
  • the user account file 134e may contain data specific to a user such as, by way of non-limiting example, user ID, password, an identifier for the user electronic device 20, user permissions and/or restrictions, etc.
  • the user account file 134e may also contain data and information about the user's media and content preferences.
  • the user account file 134e may contain data and information about preferred media and content source (e.g,, YouTube, Spotify, etc ), media types (e.g., video, music, audio, text, etc,) and conten types (e.g., news, sports, TV, movies, etc ⁇ .
  • the user account file 134e may be a dynamic file that seif ⁇ opdat.es over time to capture actual user activity, thus creating a recor of user preferences, history, usage, etc.
  • the user account ilk 134e obtains data and information that facilitate the provision of media to the user that contains content that is particular to the user, i,e , content that is user-centric.
  • the user account file 134e may be programmable so that it provides media having predetermined content to the user.
  • employee down-time e.g., waiting for print and/or copy jobs
  • the company may want to keep its employees informed about important company policies, news events, dates, etc. Or the company may want to utilize such time for continuing education.
  • the content may still be user-centric based upon each employee and their respective position, responsibilities, etc.
  • the user account file !34e for this example is still tailored to each user, but may be controlled, at least in part, by the company, and not based solely on user-defined preferences or history.
  • the user account 134e may contain a pointer or call-out to another file that may provide additional or alternative user preferences, e.g., company-defined preferences for types or groups of users,
  • General operation of this embodiment of the present invention begins whe a user, using the user device control 160 on the user electronic device 20, transmits a command for a target electronic device 30 to the smart box 1 10, as in step 802 of FIG. 8, i e., the smart box 1 10 recei ves a command from the user via the user device control 160.
  • the smart box 5 10 and/or server 130 queries the target electronic device 30 for an estimate of the time required to complete the command, seting this as a time period in step 804.
  • the smart box 1 10 queries the sewer 130 to access the user account file 134e to determine one or more user preferences for the media and content.
  • a user preference may comprise a media play history that identifies certain media that have previously been delivered to the user for playback.
  • a user preference may specify subject matter (i.e., content) of interest to the user (for example, sports, weather, financial market conditions), either based on a direct expression of preferences by the user or as extracted by the smart box 1 10 from a user playback history
  • a user preference may also specify media type preferences of the user (for example, audio/video, audio only, text, etc.).
  • the time period Is useful for the smart box 1 10 and/or server 130 to determine the length of time available for the user-centric content, and enable selection of a media file or pad of a media file of appropriate length.
  • the content will have a playback length (in time) that is similar to or the same as the time period, preferably a playback length that is not greater than the time period.
  • the smart, box 1 10, at step 808, identifies one or more media sources as potential providers of media files having at least one characteristic that is the same as or at least similar to one or more user preferences.
  • characteristic of a media file may comprise the media type (e.g,, video, music, audio, text etc.: ⁇ , a content source (e.g,, YouTube, Spotify, etc,), content type (e.g., news, sports, TV, pop culture, movies, etc.), any combination of media type, content source and content type, or other characteristics as would be apparent to a person of skill in the art
  • the media source may be specified by a corporation or other entity associated with the user and/or electronic device 30 (that may be locate in a corporate document production center).
  • the media source may be a media server 300 located within a private network 12 and accessible only b the corporation and its employees.
  • the media server 300 may be publicly accessible over a public network 10 and configured for providing media from one or a plurality of content creators and providers.
  • the smart box 1 10 may also utilize a sever 130 provided by or as part of A azon
  • special purpose software 132 may also comprise an application programming interface (API) provided on the AWS server 130 and configured to communicate with the smart box 110, and to identi fy ⁇ and locate media and content that haying at least one characteristic that is the same as or at least similar to one or more user preferences.
  • API application programming interface
  • the smart box ! 10 transmits a request at step 810 to media server 300 to identify and retrieve a media file or part of a media file having a playback length or playing time that is approximately equal to tire time period and having content having at least one characteristic that is the same as or at least similar to one or more user preferences.
  • the retrie ve media file or part of the media file will also have at. least one characteristics that is similar to or the same characteristic as at least one user preference.
  • tire user account file 134e may define a preference that any media file or part of the media file that has been previously viewed by the user be excluded, possibly for a.
  • a preference may indicate that a specific medi file or part of the media file is to be played (for example, a next segment in university class program, or a daily news report segment for corporation),
  • a specific medi file or part of the media file is to be played (for example, a next segment in university class program, or a daily news report segment for corporation)
  • the present invention also enables media and content to be displaye on a display of a target electronic device 30, e.g , a multi-function printer, alternatively, or in addition to the media and content being displayed on the user electronic device 20, as indicated at step 814 of FIG. 8
  • the media and content maybe different from that provided and displayed on the user electronic device 20, of it may be similar or the same.
  • the parameters tor displaying the content on the display of the MFP may also be the same, similar or different
  • a media fife or part of a media file may be selected for display on both the user electronic device 20, and on a display of the target electronic device 30, When the content of the selecte media file or part of a media file is intended for a particular user.
  • the media file or part of a media file will preferably display for the same time period on both devices, i.e., for the time required for the target electronic device 3Q to complete the command.
  • This is also referred to herein as machine-state timing, because it is defined, at least in -part, by the state of the target electronic device 30— beginning and ending when that device changes its state.
  • the present invention ma provide fo media an content to be displayed for a first time period on the user electronic device 20, and for a second time period on the display of the target electronic device 30.
  • media may be selected for display on -the user electronic device 20 for the time period, and different media ma he selected for display on the target electronic device 30 for a longer time period.
  • the content for the two different media may generally be the same, i.e.. conveying the same or a similar message, but the content of the media displayed on the target electronic device 30 may more generalized, and may appeal to a broader audience, in which case the present invention provides for that media to be displayed for a period of time different from, and preferably longer than, the time period for the target electronic device 30 to complete the user’s command,
  • the display of the target electronic device 30 may function as billboard, displaying the media and content not only to the user while the user is waiting for the target electronic device 30 to complete its task, but also to other users who may be proximate to or passing by the target electronic device 30, and who may have an opportunity to see the display or to use th device 30 subsequently.
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide for display of content via a media file or part of a media file on both the user electronic device 20 an target electronic device 30, where the same content is displaye for the same time period on both devices, where the same content Is displayed for different time periods, where different content is displayed for foe same time period and where different content is displayed for different lime periods.
  • Display of the media and content on the display of the target electronic device 30 may be controlle by the smart bos 1 10 and/or the target electronic device 30 * in which ease an API is installed on the target electronic device 30.
  • the method of FK1. 8 is performed primarily by the smart box 110, it. should be noted that the method may alternatively be performed by one or more othe devices.
  • foe method may alternatively be performed, entirely or in part, by the server 130 and/or by the media server 300
  • the target electronic device 30 is a multi -function printer
  • such device may be connected or connectable to a print server (not shown in the figures).
  • certain steps described herein as being performed by the server 130 may in addition or alternatively to be performed completely or partially by the print server.
  • display and playback when referring to media and/or content are used interchangeably herein and refer to media presented In such a way so as to be viewable or viewed by a user.
  • a flow diagram of a method of providing user-centric content to a user electronic device is depicted.
  • the user determines or sets the playbac time for the user-centric content.
  • the smart box 110 receives a command from the user device control to control the target electron»? device : 30, at step 902.
  • the target electronic device 30 will require a predetermined amount of time to complete the command, i.e. j the time period, the user can set or determine a playback time for the aser-centric content that is shorter than, the same as, or longer that the time period.
  • step 904 the user transmits a playback time setting or parameter to the smart box 110 at step 912.
  • the smart box 1 10 identifies one or more media server's 300 having at least one target media file 302 having a characteristics that is at least similar to a user preference defined in the user account file 134e and having a length that is at least equal to or greater tha the playback time set or determined by the user, at step 908.
  • the smart box 1 10 then transmits the command (received from the user) to the target electronic device 30, obtains the target media file 302 and transmit it to the user electronic device 20 for playback thereon, at step 910.
  • FIG. 10 a flow diagram of a method of providing user-centric content to a user electronic device is depicted.
  • the user-centric content lias a predetermined revenue value for how muc the provider of the content is or has paid each time the content is displayed.
  • the target electronic device 30 will incur a cost to complete the command submitted by the user, that cost being at least in pari dependent upon the amount of resources (e,g,, paper, toner, etc,) consumed by the target electronic device 30 to complete the command
  • the user-centric content is selected, at least in part, so that its revenue value is not less than the cost, and is preferably greater than the cost.
  • the operator of the target electronic device 30 will receive revenue to at least cover its cost to complete a command, preferably receiving revenue that exceeds its cost, thus making operation of the target electronic device 30 a potential revenue source - or at the very least, a break-even endeavor, in this embodiment, the smart box 1 10 receives a com nd to control a target electronic device 30 via the user device control 160, at step 1002.
  • the smart box 1 10 determines a cost for the target electronic device 30 to complete the command, at ste 1004, considering things such as the number of pages to be printed, the paper and ink cost per page, and other cast factors of operating the target electronic device 30.
  • the smart box 1 10 can then set a revenue value for a target media file that is not less than tire cost of the target electronic device 30 to complete the command, at step 1006.
  • the smart box 1 10 next identifies a target media file 302 having the revenue value, that is not less than the cost to complete the command at ste 1 08, after which the smart box 11.0 transmits the command to the target electronic device 30, obtains the target media file 302, and transmits it to the user electronic device 20 for playback thereon, at step 1010,
  • a further aspect may be incorporated to enable a user to further control the user-centric content with simple voice commands, in contrast to known systems, devices : and methods, by which voice commands are: captured or received for natural language translation (he , in which the voice commands are the content), this aspect of the present invention uses voice capture an recognition to control certain aspects of content. More specifically, this aspect of the present invention enables a. user, with a : voice command, to direct content to a repository for later use, viewing, etc. For example, if content contains a coupon, this aspect of the present invention can direct the smart box 1 10 to save the coupon to a predetermined or user- identified destination using email or text, as to illustrative, non-limiting examples.
  • This aspect of the present invention is similar to a '‘like,” Use in many different applications to enable a user to indicate an opinion regarding particular content, but the present invention improves on that feature by enabling a user to actually capture the content or a part of the content (e.g., a discount coupon) for later usage.
  • a user For example, speaking the wake-up word“ZJNGIT,” will cause the smart box 110 to wake up and transition from an inactive of passive state, in which it is not controlling, to an active state, in which it begins processing and enabling the user to control aspects relating to the content.
  • Response by the smart box 1 10 to the wake up word“ZiNGI ' T” may be preprogrammed, in that it causes the smart box. 110 to carry out a predetermined command or command set.
  • such a predetermined command may comprise recording a pointer for the content or a part of the content in the user’s account file: 134e to later reference; and/or access, or it may comprise forwarding the content or a part of the content to a pre -identified destination (e.g., e-mail, text, etc,).
  • a pre -identified destination e.g., e-mail, text, etc.
  • This aspect of the present invention may function similar to the“like” feature of various known user interfaces in that it will cause a record to be created within which certain information about the user and the content will be contained that enables the user to re- visit the content at a later time.
  • the record will not contain a copy of the conten t, to limit the memory used, but may contain a pointer or other indicator that identifies or otherwise directs the user to the content.
  • response by the smart box 1 10 to the wake up word“ZIMGIT” may be interactive or conversational » where the user will make selections, respond to questions/ requests, etc.
  • the user may respond to inquiries within the content, such as questions for educational content, destination (e.g , e-mail address, text, etc.) information for the content or part of the content, as two non-limiting examples.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Databases & Information Systems (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Accounting & Taxation (AREA)
  • Finance (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Economics (AREA)
  • General Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Strategic Management (AREA)
  • Marketing (AREA)
  • Development Economics (AREA)
  • Computer Graphics (AREA)
  • Information Transfer Between Computers (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système ou un procédé qui peut, en réponse à une commande soumise par un utilisateur à un dispositif électronique cible, identifier et sélectionner une source multimédia et/ou un fichier d'un type de contenu multimédia préféré, d'un type de contenu préféré et d'une longueur qui va remplir le temps requis pour que le dispositif électronique cible termine la commande, ce qui permet que l'intégralité du contenu soit délivrée à l'utilisateur pendant qu'il attend l'achèvement de la commande.
PCT/US2018/041072 2018-07-06 2018-07-06 Système et procédé permettant de fournir un contenu orienté utilisateur à un dispositif électronique WO2020009706A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2018/041072 WO2020009706A1 (fr) 2018-07-06 2018-07-06 Système et procédé permettant de fournir un contenu orienté utilisateur à un dispositif électronique

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2018/041072 WO2020009706A1 (fr) 2018-07-06 2018-07-06 Système et procédé permettant de fournir un contenu orienté utilisateur à un dispositif électronique

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2020009706A1 true WO2020009706A1 (fr) 2020-01-09

Family

ID=69059791

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2018/041072 WO2020009706A1 (fr) 2018-07-06 2018-07-06 Système et procédé permettant de fournir un contenu orienté utilisateur à un dispositif électronique

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2020009706A1 (fr)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
KR20120041351A (ko) * 2010-10-21 2012-05-02 엘지전자 주식회사 영상 표시 기기의 소프트웨어 업그레이드 방법 및 그를 이용한 영상 표시 기기
KR20140006686A (ko) * 2012-07-06 2014-01-16 주식회사 우리은행 인터넷 뱅킹 사용자를 위한 콘텐츠 제공 시스템 및 이를 이용한 콘텐츠 제공 방법
US20150097669A1 (en) * 2013-10-04 2015-04-09 Sol Mingso Li Systems and methods for programming, controlling and monitoring wireless networks
JP2016051440A (ja) * 2014-09-02 2016-04-11 慎治 長坂 情報提供システム
US20170126509A1 (en) * 2015-10-30 2017-05-04 Bank Of America Corporation System for configuration and device connectivity based on user selection

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
KR20120041351A (ko) * 2010-10-21 2012-05-02 엘지전자 주식회사 영상 표시 기기의 소프트웨어 업그레이드 방법 및 그를 이용한 영상 표시 기기
KR20140006686A (ko) * 2012-07-06 2014-01-16 주식회사 우리은행 인터넷 뱅킹 사용자를 위한 콘텐츠 제공 시스템 및 이를 이용한 콘텐츠 제공 방법
US20150097669A1 (en) * 2013-10-04 2015-04-09 Sol Mingso Li Systems and methods for programming, controlling and monitoring wireless networks
JP2016051440A (ja) * 2014-09-02 2016-04-11 慎治 長坂 情報提供システム
US20170126509A1 (en) * 2015-10-30 2017-05-04 Bank Of America Corporation System for configuration and device connectivity based on user selection

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US10430125B1 (en) System, network architecture and method for accessing and controlling an electronic device
US10812680B2 (en) System and method for securely accessing, manipulating and controlling documents and devices using natural language processing
US20080040716A1 (en) Universal Appliance
JP5090834B2 (ja) 情報処理装置及び認証制御プログラム
EP2912593B1 (fr) Régulation de la distribution et de l'utilisation d'une application de développeur dans un environnement de réseau
CN1474986A (zh) 用于监督多个金融服务终端的系统和方法
KR102235992B1 (ko) 정보 처리 시스템, 정보 처리 시스템의 제어방법 및 프로그램
CN101409725A (zh) 信息处理设备及控制方法
US10762058B2 (en) System and method for providing user-centric content to an electronic device
CN101998009A (zh) 控制服务器和多功能外设的显示屏幕控制系统
US10891576B2 (en) System and method for recommending a transaction to replace a device based upon total cost of ownership
JP2019160097A (ja) 情報処理システム、情報処理装置、情報処理方法及びプログラム
US9195413B2 (en) Networked printing systems
CN103259951A (zh) 网络系统、信息处理装置及其控制方法
US9247078B2 (en) Accessing a service cloud from a mobile device
AU2013341125B2 (en) Networked printing systems
US9286016B2 (en) Networked printing systems
WO2020009706A1 (fr) Système et procédé permettant de fournir un contenu orienté utilisateur à un dispositif électronique
JP2004171571A (ja) ドキュメント管理方法およびシステム
US20130308154A1 (en) Image processing apparatus, method for controlling image processing apparatus, and storage medium
US20080046539A1 (en) Method and apparatus for providing internet service to home network
WO2019236051A1 (fr) Système, architecture de réseau et procédé d'accès à un dispositif électronique et de commande de ce dernier
US9081521B2 (en) Networked printing systems for providing a la carte reproduction services
US20140132970A1 (en) Networked printing systems
US20140132975A1 (en) Networked printing systems

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 18925069

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 18925069

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1