WO2024115969A1 - System and method to integrate search results to a chat group - Google Patents

Abstract

A system to integrate search results to a chat group is disclosed. The system includes a recommendation generation module to propose search results for things to do and allow users to share it in a group chat, upon selecting. The system includes a things to do display module to pin the search results on a top section of the group chat, providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing a group chat. Advertisements are displayed in real-time based on the search results. The things to do is displayed as a proposal when the user clicks on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty of deciding on a desired things to do. The system includes a rating module to vote and rate the desired things to do and a scheduling module to reserve the desired things to do and a payment module to split a payment payable among the users.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD TO INTEGRATE SEARCH RESULTS TO A CHAT GROUP

EARLIEST PRIORITY DATE

This Application claims priority from a Complete patent application filed in India having Patent Application No. 202241069756, filed on December 02, 2022, and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD TO INTEGRATE SEARCH RESULTS TO A CHAT GROUP”.

FIELD OF INVENTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to targeting content to Internet users and more particularly to, a system and a method to integrate search results to a chat group.

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, the Internet represents the principal way in which the people meet new friends and remain in touch with existing friends, because the Internet enables establishing and maintaining interactions between vast numbers of individuals. As the popularity of social networking continues to expand, social forums are implemented to join, share interests and hobbies for networking and meeting new people.

For this purpose, various social networking websites (for instance, Facebook, Twitter, Tik Tok, Pinterest, Linkedln and the like) have been developed in recent years. Social networking websites can provide organizational tools and forums for allowing these individuals to interact with one another via the social networking website. Many users prefer to limit communications to specific groups of other users or friends sharing the same or similar interests and activities. Additionally, messenger applications have also been useful to achieve the above mentioned purpose. The messenger applications (for instance, WhatsApp, Telegram or Facebook messenger and the like) enables a private messaging to be sent and received between for both one-on-one and group messaging.

Another essential feature of the Internet allows people to search for desired products and services by using a search engine. The search engine conventionally provides a list of search results, and the user is allowed to click into each website to view the product or service offerings and availability.

Currently, there is no way to send the search results to a chat session initiated for social networking via the social networking websites and/or the messenger applications. Further, existing social networking platforms fail to allow people to have conversations about the search results and share their opinion such as like/dislike/vote, make a selection and move further in the process. Therefore, what is needed is a chat- driven online marketplace system.

Hence, there is a need for an improved system and method to integrate search results into a chat group to address the aforementioned issue(s).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In accordance with an embodiment of a present disclosure, a system to integrate search results to a chat group is disclosed. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server, wherein the processing subsystem is configured to execute on a network to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem includes a user interface module configured to display a group chat to a plurality of users. The processing subsystem includes a recommendation generation module configured to propose search results for one or more things to do to the plurality of users, via a user interface, wherein the search results are based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users wherein the preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users. The recommendation generation module is also configured to allow the plurality of users, upon successful registration, to select one or more desired things to do from the search results and share the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, with one or more of the plurality of users in a group chat. The processing subsystem also includes a things to do display module operatively coupled to the recommendation generation module and configured to display the search results in real-time on a top section of a group chat via the user interface thereby providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users to discuss in the group chat. The things to do display module is also configured to display a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users participating in the chat group. The things to do display module is also configured to display one or more advertisements in real-time corresponding to the displayed search results to the plurality of users. Further, the things to do display module is configured to display the one or more desired things to do as a proposal to the plurality of users in response to at least one of the plurality of users clicking on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty in deciding on the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users. The processing subsystem also includes a chat module operatively coupled to the things to do display module wherein the chat module is configured to allow the plurality of users to post comments about the one or more desired things to do. Further, the processing subsystem includes a rating module operatively coupled to the chat module wherein the rating module is configured to allow the plurality of users to vote and rate the one or more desired things to do thereby selecting one or more desired things to do based on the number of votes. Furthermore, the processing subsystem includes a scheduling module operatively coupled to the rating module wherein the scheduling module is configured to reserve the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, for a specific date and time. Moreover, the processing subsystem includes a payment module operatively coupled to the scheduling module wherein the payment module is configured to split a payment payable for the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users based on a predefined ratio and provide secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method to integrate search results to a chat group is disclosed. The method includes displaying, by a user interface module of a processing subsystem, a group chat to a plurality of users. The method also includes proposing, by a recommendation generation module of the processing subsystem, search results for one or more things to do to the plurality of users, via the user interface module, wherein the search results are based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users. The preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users. The method includes allowing, by a recommendation generation module of the processing subsystem, upon successful registration, to select one or more desired things to do from the search results and share the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, with one or more of the plurality of users in the group chat. The method includes displaying, by a things to do display module of the processing subsystem, the search results in real-time on a top section of the group chat via the user interface module thereby providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users to discuss in the group chat. The method includes displaying, by a things to do display module of the processing subsystem, a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users participating in the chat group. The method includes displaying, by the things to do display module of the processing subsystem, one or more advertisements in real-time corresponding to the displayed search results to the plurality of users. The method includes displaying, by the things to do display module of the processing subsystem, the one or more desired things to do as a proposal to the plurality of users in response to at least one of the plurality of users clicking on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty of deciding on the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users. The method also includes allowing, by a chat module of the processing subsystem, the plurality of users to post comments about the one or more desired things to do and simultaneously view the things to do that is always pinned to the top of the group chat thereby preventing the plurality of users (155) to scroll down each time to view the things to do. The method includes allowing, by a rating module of the processing subsystem, the plurality of users to vote and rate the one or more desired things to do thereby selecting one or more desired things to do based on the number of votes. Further, the method includes reserving, by a scheduling module of the processing subsystem, the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, for a specific date and time. Furthermore, the method includes splitting, by a payment module of the processing subsystem, a payment payable for the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users based on a predefined ratio. Moreover, the method includes providing, by the payment module of the processing subsystem, secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which: FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a system for integrating search results in a chat group in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram representation of an exemplary embodiment of the system to integrate results in a chat group of FIG.1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computer or a server in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b and FIG. 4c are exemplary screenshots of a method to integrate results in a chat group in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 5a illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for integrating search results in a chat group in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 5b illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG. 5a in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.

The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional sub-systems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.

In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system and a method for integrate search results to a group chat. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server, wherein the processing subsystem is configured to execute on a network to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem includes a user interface module configured to display a group chat to a plurality of users. The processing subsystem includes a recommendation generation module configured to propose search results for one or more things to do to a plurality of users, via a user interface, wherein the search results are based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users wherein the preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users. The recommendation generation module is also configured to allow the plurality of users, upon successful registration, to select one or more desired things to do from the search results and share the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, with one or more of the plurality of users in a group chat. The processing subsystem also includes a things to do display module operatively coupled to the recommendation generation module and configured to display the search results in real-time on a top section of a group chat via the user interface thereby providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users to discuss in the group chat. The things to do display module is also configured to display a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users participating in the chat group. The things to do display module is also configured to display one or more advertisements in real-time corresponding to the displayed search results to the plurality of users. Further, the things to do display module is configured to display the one or more desired things to do as a proposal to the plurality of users in response to at least one of the plurality of users clicking on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty in deciding on the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users. The processing subsystem also includes a chat module operatively coupled to the things to do display module wherein the chat module is configured to allow the plurality of users to post comments about the one or more desired things to do. Further, the processing subsystem includes a rating module operatively coupled to the chat module wherein the rating module is configured to allow the plurality of users to vote and rate the one or more desired things to do thereby selecting one or more desired things to do based on the number of votes. Furthermore, the processing subsystem includes a scheduling module operatively coupled to the rating module wherein the scheduling module is configured to reserve the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, for a specific date and time. Moreover, the processing subsystem includes a payment module operatively coupled to the scheduling module wherein the payment module is configured to split a payment payable for the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users based on a predefined ratio and provide secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a system (100) for integrating search results in a chat group in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system (100) includes a processing subsystem (110) hosted on a server (115). In one embodiment, the server (115) may include a cloud server. In another embodiment, the server (115) may include a local server. The processing subsystem (110) is configured to execute on a network (not shown in Fig. 1) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules.

The processing subsystem (110) includes a user interface module (120) operable to display a chat application configured to perform the method disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the user interface module (120) may comprise a single screen, window, or a web page. Further, the user interface module (120) allows a plurality of users to login and enter details connected via the network (150). Typically, the plurality of users are individuals who share a relationship with each other, for instance, friends, family and the like. The plurality of users is in communication with a social network engine (not shown in FIG.l) via the network (150). The social network engine operates a social networking website that is configured with the chat application and may include one or more servers (not specifically shown) or any other device or application capable of providing social networking services via the network (150). The plurality of users can access the services provided by the social network engine via the network (150). Further, the plurality of users may use a computing device, such as a laptop or desktop computer, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone, a tablet device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smart phone, a laptop, pagers, a set top box, and so forth to access the social network engine.

It is essential that each of the plurality of users register to use the chat application. The registration process in further explained in conjunction with FIG. 2.

The user interface module (120) is configured to display the chat application to the plurality of users. The user interface module (120) may be a graphical user interface which includes a graphical keyboard with integrated search features. The plurality of users may provide an input via the graphical user interface that forms the content of electronic messages (herein referred to as ‘chat messages’). These electronic messages form a chat conversation between the plurality of users.

The processing subsystem (110) also includes a recommendation generation module (125) operatively coupled to the user interface module (120). The recommendation generation module (125) is configured to propose search results for one or more things to do to a plurality of users, via the user interface module (120), wherein the search results are based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users (125). Typically, the preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users (125).

Additionally, the recommendation generation module (125) is configured to allow the plurality of users (125), upon successful registration, to select one or more desired things to do from the search results and share it with one or more of the plurality of users in a group chat. Typically, the search results are proposed based on the user profiles that are created during the registration process. The user profiles include details for instance, preferences, choices, hobbies and the like. Therefore, the search results are things to do based on the user profiles. The ‘things to do’ may be defined as a planned public occasion, social occasion, restaurants and the like.

In one embodiment, the recommendation generation module (125) is configured to identify if the plurality of users likes or dislikes to pick up things to do from the search results randomly. Each user is allowed to rate or vote for the things to do displayed on the chat conversation. Based on the ratings or number of votes, the recommendation generation module (125) may propose the corresponding things to do to the plurality of users.

The processing subsystem (110) further includes a things to do display module (130) operatively coupled to the recommendation generation module (125). The things to do display module (130) is configured to display the search results in real-time on a top section of a group chat via the user interface thereby providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users to discuss in the group chat. This allows the plurality of users to search for specific things to do, say for example a restaurant, and simultaneously share it in the chat group. The shared things to do will be pinned to the top of the chat conversation.

The chat group may be configured on a chat window which may be part of a loaded webpage. In one embodiment, the chat interface may be opened on the webpage directly below the corresponding search result, pushing the search results up the page. In one embodiment, the things to do display module (130) is configured to display a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users participating in the chat group.

The processing subsystem (110) includes a chat module (135) operatively coupled to the things to do display module (130) wherein the chat module (135) is configured to allow the plurality of users to post comments about the one or more desired things to do.

Furthermore, the processing subsystem (110) includes a rating module (140) operatively coupled to the chat module (130) and configured to allow the plurality of users to vote and rate the one or more desired things to do thereby selecting one or more desired things to do based on the number of votes.

In one embodiment, the rating module (140) is configured to display the ratings of the things to do proposed by the plurality of users via the user interface module (120). In another embodiment, the rating module (140) is configured to delete one or more things to do that are provided to the plurality of users in response to the ratings and votes.

Moreover, the processing subsystem includes a scheduling module (145) operatively coupled to the rating module (140) wherein the scheduling module (145) is configured to reserve the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, for a specific date and time.

In one embodiment, the scheduling module (145) is configured to set a reminder or a calendar notification in response to the plurality of users selecting a thing to do.

In another embodiment, the scheduling module (145) is configured to allow an originator from the plurality of users to create a schedule. The originator refers to a selected user by the system wherein the originator is entitled to start a chat conversation and/or cancel a thing to do and the like. In one embodiment, the originator may be transferred to another user.

In yet another embodiment, the scheduling module (145) is configured to integrate with a third party service corresponding to the thing to do selected. In one embodiment, the third party service may be a cab service, for instance Uber, Ola and the like. In such an embodiment, a transportation vehicle is booked to pick up the user on the day and time of the things to do.

The processing subsystem includes a payment module (150) operatively coupled to the scheduling module (145) and configured to split a payment payable for the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users based on a predefined ratio. The predefined ratio refers to a specific portion of the payment. Specifically, the payment payable for the things to do is divided among the plurality of users. Consider a scenario wherein four friends visit a restaurant for dinner. A total amount (payment) of Rs. 2000 is payable at the restaurant after dinner. Therefore, Rs 2000 may be divided into four equal portions among the friends. This entitles each person to pay Rs.500.

The payment module (150) is configured to allow the plurality of users to edit the predefined ratio of the payment payable by the plurality of users. The splitting of the payment should not be limited to the above exemplary scenario but may include any variations of the predefined ratio.

In one embodiment, the payment module (150) is also configured to provide secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram representation of an exemplary embodiment of the system to integrate results in a chat group of FIG.1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system (100) includes the processing subsystem (110) hosted on a cloud server (115). The processing subsystem (110) includes the user interface module (120), the recommendation generation module (125), the things to do display module (130), the rating module (140), the scheduling module (140) and the payment module (150). The processing subsystem (110) also includes a user profile module (165) through which the users register with the chat application by creating respective user profiles. Further, the processing subsystem (110) also includes a database (160) to store the details gathered from the plurality of users (155) during the registration process. The processing subsystem (110) also includes a search engine (170) operatively coupled to the recommendation generation module (125) wherein the search engine (170) fetches the search results based on preferences of the users recorded in their respective user profiles. In one embodiment, the search engine (170) is configured with artificial intelligence to fetch the search results based on historical details of the users. Examples of the artificial intelligence algorithm includes, but are not limited to, a Deep Neural Network (DNN), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Restricted Boltzmann Machine (RBM), Deep Belief Network (DBN) and Deep Q- Networks.

Suppose a plurality of users (155) (who shares a relationship with each other) forms a group chat conversation with the system (100). Each of the plurality of users (155) may register to the group chat via their respective computing devices through a network (150). In a preferred embodiment, the network (150) may include a mesh network using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) links, Wireless local area network (WLAN) network, a cellular network, a Low-power wide-area (LPWA) network and the like. In one embodiment, the network may also include a wired network such as local area network (LAN), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, near field communication (NFC), infra-red communication (RFID) or the like. Examples of the computing device, includes but is not limited to a personal computer (PC), a mobile phone, a tablet device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smart phone, a laptop, and pagers. Further, each of the plurality of users (155) may be present at different geographical locations. In one embodiment, the plurality of users (155) may also be present at the same geographical location.

Typically, the plurality of users (125) registers in the chat application by creating respective user profiles and subsequently forms a group for discussion/ conversation. Upon successful registration, the best recommendations based on their preferences (hobbies, choices and the like) are proposed to the plurality of users (125). In a specific embodiment, the best recommendations may relate to a restaurant of a desire cuisine. The recommendation generation module (125) identifies if all the users in the group likes or dislikes to pick a thing to do randomly. It must be noted that the things to do refers to any type of outing, for instance, a party, a celebration, a conference and the like. Further, the plurality of users (125) is allowed to select a thing to do and may or may not share the said things to do to a specific user or a group of users. Upon selecting a thing to do, the distance to reach the things to do location from a current location of the plurality of users is analyzed and displayed. The things to do and other details are pinned to the top section of the chat screen/conversation. This allows the plurality of users to chat and simultaneously view, rate and vote for the things to do displayed on the group chat. Upon completion of the things to do, a payment payable may be split among the plurality of users. In other words, each user has the option of paying a certain pre-determined amount of the payment payable. The system (100) ensures for secured payment transactions.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computer or a server (115) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The server (115) includes processor(s) (340), and memory (320) operatively coupled to the bus (330). The processor(s) (340), as used herein, means any type of computational circuit, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing microprocessor, a very long instruction word microprocessor, an explicitly parallel instruction computing microprocessor, a digital signal processor, or any other type of processing circuit, or a combination thereof.

The memory (320) includes several subsystems stored in the form of executable program which instructs the processor (340) to perform the method steps illustrated in FIG. 1. The memory (320) includes a processing subsystem (110) of FIG.l. The processing subsystem (110) further has following modules: a user interface module (120), a recommendation generation module (125), a things to do display module (130), a chat module (135), a rating module (140), a scheduling module (145) and a payment module (150).

The system (100) includes a processing subsystem (110) hosted on a server (115), wherein the processing subsystem (110) is configured to execute on a network (150) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem includes a user interface module (120) configured to display a group chat to a plurality of users. The processing subsystem (110) includes a recommendation generation module (125) configured to propose search results for one or more things to do to a plurality of users, via a user interface, wherein the search results are based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users wherein the preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users. The recommendation generation module (125) is also configured to allow the plurality of users, upon successful registration, to select one or more desired things to do from the search results and share the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, with one or more of the plurality of users in a group chat. The processing subsystem (110) also includes a things to do display module (130) operatively coupled to the recommendation generation module (125) and configured to pin the search results in real-time on a top section of a group chat via the user interface thereby providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users to discuss in the group chat. The things to do display module (130) is also configured to display a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users participating in the chat group. The things to do display module is also configured to display one or more advertisements in real-time corresponding to the displayed search results to the plurality of users. Further, the things to do display module is configured to display the one or more desired things to do as a proposal to the plurality of users in response to at least one of the plurality of users clicking on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty in deciding on the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users. The processing subsystem also includes a chat module operatively coupled to the things to do display module wherein the chat module is configured to allow the plurality of users to post comments about the one or more desired things to do. Further, the processing subsystem (110) includes a rating module (140) operatively coupled to the chat module (135) wherein the rating module (140) is configured to allow the plurality of users to vote and rate the one or more desired things to do thereby selecting one or more desired things to do based on the number of votes. Furthermore, the processing subsystem (110) includes a scheduling module (145) operatively coupled to the rating module (140) wherein the scheduling module (145) is configured to reserve the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, for a specific date and time. Moreover, the processing subsystem (110) includes a payment module (150) operatively coupled to the scheduling module (145) wherein the payment module (150) is configured to split a payment payable for the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users based on a predefined ratio and provide secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users.

The bus (330) as used herein refers to be internal memory channels or computer network that is used to connect computer components and transfer data between them. The bus (330) includes a serial bus or a parallel bus, wherein the serial bus transmits data in bit-serial format and the parallel bus transmits data across multiple wires. The bus (330) as used herein, may include but not limited to, a system bus, an internal bus, an external bus, an expansion bus, a frontside bus, a backside bus and the like.

FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b and FIG. 4c are exemplary screenshots of a method to integrate results in a chat group in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4a illustrates an exemplary screenshot illustrating a chat screen in the chat application in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. It must be noted that the recommended things to do are pinned to the top section (410) of the chat conversation. Concurrently, the bottom section (415) of the chat screen allows a plurality of users to participate in a conversation.

FIG. 4b illustrates an exemplary screenshot illustrating the scheduling of a selected things to do in the chat application in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the exemplary screenshot, ‘Event 1 ’ (420) refers to an Italian restaurant selected by the plurality of users. The geographical location (425) corresponding to the Italian restaurant is displayed. Further, the date and time (430) for a meal at the Event 1 is presented to the plurality of users. Each of the plurality users may then convey their availability by choosing from several options (435) for instance, ‘Going’, ‘Maybe’ and ‘No’. In one embodiment, the plurality of users may add an availability note (440) that is shared in the group chat.

FIG. 4c is an exemplary screenshot illustrating the payment for the things to do in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The payment typically happens over a split approach wherein each of the plurality of users is accounted to pay a certain portion of the payment. The said portion may be decided upon a predefined amount. The exemplary screenshot illustrates the payment of Rs 1800 is split equally among the plurality of users. As a result, each user in entitled to a payment of Rs 600. In one embodiment, the split approach may be edited to accommodate any other permutations in the split approach.

FIG. 5a illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method (500) for integrating search results in a chat group in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5b illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG. 5a in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method (500) includes displaying a group chat to a plurality of users by a user interface module in step (510).

It is essential that the plurality of users register with the chat application configured to perform the method disclosed herein. This helps to collect more details about the plurality of users (target audience), preferences, interests, dispositions, favourites, long-time user behaviour and social circle. Examples of the details include, but is not limited to, login id, address, photo or avatar, last name, first name, email address, location, time, zone, address and age. Eventually, the plurality of users creates their respective user profiles with the chat application.

Upon successful completion of the registration process discussed above, the plurality of users may form a group chat using the chat application. The chat application typically provides a secure platform for the plurality of users to send instant messages to others in the group chat. Specifically, when connected to the social network, a user can identify one or more other users associated with the social network such as friends. Friends will usually share similar preferences and/or interests and such relationships can be established based on user input, for example when a user explicitly identifies another member of the social network as a friend based on similar preferences or interests as determined based on individual preferences input by the two users. As an alternative, such relationships can be established based on user interaction with the social network and as a result of a proposal generated automatically by the social network and sent as a message to two users asking them for confirmation whether the respective other user shall be a friend. Such a proposal can be made based on an automatic search in the preferences and/or interests stored in the social network engine for preferences and/or interests of two users matching each other suitably well. In one embodiment, the existence of the relationship may be denied, according to some embodiments.

It must be noted that the chat application enables both one-on-one and a group type of messaging.

The method (500) also includes providing search results to the plurality of users in step (515). The one or more desired things to do are proposed to the plurality of users in the group chat based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users wherein the preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users. For instance, if the plurality of users prefers Italian food, then a list of the best Italian restaurants located within a geographical location are proposed in the group chat.

In one embodiment, a search engine may fetch the search results based on historical preferences recorded from each of the user profiles using artificial intelligence.

Additionally, the plurality of users may search for a particular thing to do using a web browser configured in their respective computing device. The things to do is at a particular distance from a current location of the plurality of users. In one embodiment the things to do may be a restaurant that offers a specific cuisine. Examples of the things to do include, but is not limited to, a conference venue, a party, a celebration and a meal gathering.

The method (500) also includes allowing the plurality of users to select one or more desired things to do from the search results, upon successful registration in step (520). Subsequently, the selected one or more desired things to do is shared with the plurality of users in the group chat.

The method (500) also includes pinning the search results in real-time on a top section of a group chat via the user interface in step (525). This provides easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users to discuss in the group chat. In one embodiment, the group chat is initiated by an originator of the group chat thereby providing easy access to the search results. Further, the pinning of the search results on the top section eliminates the need of the users to scroll up and down on the screen to discuss or check on a thing to do. The plurality of users may engage in a chat session based on the search results. The chat session may be Short Messaging Service (SMS), instant messaging, texting and the like. In varying embodiments, the plurality of users may engage in a voice over-IP session, a Skype session, a video conference session, or another interactive computer-based communication session. In one embodiment, the group chat may be integrated with voice over IP (VoIP) technology that allows the plurality of users to talk to each other. The method (500) also includes displaying a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users participating in the chat group in step (530).

The method (500) is also configured to display one or more advertisements in realtime corresponding to the displayed search results to the plurality of users by the things to do display module in step (535). Further, it must be noted that the said advertisements apply to one or more merchants who have registered with the app disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the method (500) allows one or more vendors with target advertising on the chat application. For instance, a restaurant may target an advertisement indicating a discounted meal on every Wednesday. In another instance, consider a scenario wherein a hundred users located in ‘Dollars Colony’ have logged into the app disclosed herein. At this point of time, a mall owner may want to put out an advertisement for a flash sale on ‘Nike’ shoes. The advertisement may propose a 20% discount on the ‘Nike’ shoes for anyone who arrives at a specific store (say ‘X’) located in the mall within 15 minutes from the time of announcement. The individuals who arrive may then use a coupon (say ‘XXX’). Such an advertisement or message is sent out to all the said hundred users located in ‘Dollars Colony’.

The method (500) also includes displaying the one or more desired things to do as a proposal to the plurality of users in response to a user clicking on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty in deciding on the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users in step (540). Typically, the roulette wheel icon is adapted to spin and stop at a particular place. The place is based on several factors of the plurality of users (for instance, food and other preferences, distance from each one of the things to do, space availability and the like). Subsequently, the roulette wheel icon would display the details of a plurality of things to do (such as details of a restaurant, hang out place/ shopping malls and the like).

In one embodiment, the search results may be a plug-in on top of the group chat.

The method (500) also includes allowing, by a chat module of the processing subsystem, the plurality of users to post comments about the one or more desired things to do in step (545). The method (500) also includes allowing the plurality of users to vote and rate the things to do displayed in the group chat thereby selecting a thing to do based on the number of votes in step (550). In one embodiment, the ratings of the things to do proposed by the plurality of users is displayed via the user interface.

Further, in one embodiment, the plurality of users is allowed to delete one or more things to do that are provided to the plurality of users in response to the ratings and votes.

In one embodiment, the chat group includes a chat button which, when selected, prompts the users to select friends to be included in the group chat session and causes the computing devices of the user to transmit and initiate the group chat session with the selected users.

Further, in another embodiment, the collective knowledge of the plurality of users may be utilized to enhance one's search for products and services.

The method (500) also includes reserving the things to do for a desired date and time, upon selecting in step (555). Considering the ongoing example, a reservation for dinner may be booked at the selected Italian restaurant for a specific time and date. In one embodiment, the plurality of users is allowed to set a reminder or a calendar notification in response to the plurality of users selecting a thing to do.

According to the present disclosure, things to do are associated with time-tags which are usually automatically generated while searching about the things to do, but which may also be generated by user interaction. Such time-tags enable the sorting of a plurality of things to do in chronological order, as a prerequisite for displaying selected ones of these things to do in chronological order in the individual list of things to do of a user.

In one embodiment, the chat application is configured to integrate with a third-party service corresponding to the selected things to do. Typically, the third-party service is a platform accountable to offer ride-hailing (allowing users to book a vehicle and driver to transport them in a way similar to a taxi). Examples of the third-party service includes, but is not limited to, Uber, Ola Cabs, Gett and Wingz. The method (500) also includes splitting a payment payable for the things to do among the plurality of users based on a predefined ratio in step (560). In other words, the payment may be divided among the plurality of users based on the predefined ratio. It must be noted that the plurality of users is given an option to decide on the predefined ratio. In some embodiments, a few users may not be entitled to pay an amount, for instance a conference that offers a free participation.

The method (500) also includes providing secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users in step (565). In one embodiment, the users may be allowed to transfer payments to other users in the group chat.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and method to integrate search results in a group chat. In other words, the search results are always pinned to the top of the group chat. This facilitates the users to view the search results and engage in a chat conversation simultaneously. Further, the chat application displays the search results and the chat conversation in a single screen or window thereby eliminating the need for scrolling the screen multiple times. Further, as the chat application allows the users to rate and vote for a specific thing to do, the users need not search or scroll for the user’s responses/ preferences on the said things to do. Consolidated feedback of the users on the said things to do is displayed on the search results thereby allowing the users to engage in a chat conversation easily without wasting much time on gathering the feedback of the users.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.

Claims

LAIM:

1. A system (100) to integrate search results into a chat group, comprising: a processing subsystem (110) hosted on a server (115), wherein the processing subsystem (110) is configured to execute on a network (150) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules comprising: a user interface module (120) configured to display a group chat to a plurality of users (155); a recommendation generation module (125) operatively coupled to a user interface module (120) wherein the recommendation generation module (125) is configured to: propose search results for one or more things to do to the plurality of users (155), via the user interface module (120), wherein the search results are based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users (155) wherein the preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users (155); and allow the plurality of users (155), upon successful registration, to select one or more desired things to do from the search results and share the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, with one or more of the plurality of users (155) in a group chat; a things to do display module (130) operatively coupled to the recommendation generation module (125) wherein the things to do display module (130) is configured to: pin the search results in real-time on a top section of the group chat via the user interface module (120) thereby providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users (155) to discuss in the group chat relevant to the displayed search results; display a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users (155) participating in the chat group; display one or more advertisements in real-time corresponding to the displayed search results to the plurality of users (155); and display the one or more desired things to do as a proposal to the plurality of users (155) in response to at least one of the plurality of users (155) clicking on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty of deciding on the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users (155); a chat module (135) operatively coupled to the things to do display module (130) wherein the chat module (135) is configured to allow the plurality of users (155) to post comments about the one or more desired things to do and simultaneously view the things to do that is always pinned to the top of the group chat thereby preventing the plurality of users (155) to scroll down each time to view the things to do; a rating module (140) operatively coupled to the things to do display module (130) wherein the chat module (135) is configured to allow the plurality of users (155) to vote and rate the one or more desired things to do thereby selecting one or more desired things to do based on the number of votes; a scheduling module (145) operatively coupled to the rating module (140) wherein the scheduling module (145) is configured to reserve the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, for a specific date and time; and a payment module (150) operatively coupled to the scheduling module (145) wherein the payment module (150) is configured to: split a payment payable for the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users (155) based on a predefined ratio; and provide secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users (155).

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprising a user profile module (165) configured to create a plurality of user profiles in response to receiving details from the plurality of users (155) via the user interface module (120) thereby registering the plurality of users (155).

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the rating module (140) is configured to: display the ratings of the things to do proposed by the plurality of users (155) via the user interface module (120); and delete one or more things to do that are provided to the plurality of users (155) in response to the ratings and votes.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the scheduling module (145) is configured to set a reminder or a calendar notification in response to the plurality of users (155) selecting a thing to do.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the scheduling module (145) is configured to allow an originator from the plurality of users (155) to create a schedule.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the scheduling module (145) is configured to integrate with a third party service corresponding to the things to do selected.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprising a search engine (170) operatively coupled to the recommendation generation module (125) wherein the search engine (170) fetches the search results based on historical preferences recorded from each of the user profiles using artificial intelligence.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the payment module (150) is configured to allow the plurality of users (155) to edit the predefined ratio of the payment payable by the plurality of users (155).

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the recommendation generation module (125) is configured to identify if the plurality of users (155) likes or dislikes to pick up a thing to do from the search results randomly.

10. A method (500) to integrate search results into a chat group, comprising: displaying, by a user interface module of a processing subsystem, a group chat to a plurality of users; (510) proposing, by a recommendation generation module of the processing subsystem, search results for one or more things to do to the plurality of users, via the user interface module, wherein the search results are based on the one or more things to do and preferences of each of the plurality of users wherein the preferences are received at the time of successful registration of the plurality of users; (515) allowing, by the recommendation generation module of the processing subsystem, upon successful registration, to select one or more desired things to do from the search results and share the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, with one or more of the plurality of users in the group chat; (520) pinning, by the things to do display module of the processing subsystem, the search results in real-time on a top section of the group chat via the user interface module thereby providing easy access to the search results while simultaneously allowing the plurality of users to discuss in the group chat; (525) displaying, by the things to do display module of the processing subsystem, a distance to the location of the one or more desired things to do from each of a current location corresponding to the plurality of users participating in the chat group; (530) displaying, by the things to do display module of the processing subsystem, one or more advertisements in real-time corresponding to the displayed search results to the plurality of users; (535) displaying, by the things to do display module of the processing subsystem, the one or more desired things to do as a proposal to the plurality of users (155) in response to at least one of the plurality of users (155) clicking on a roulette wheel icon indicating uncertainty of deciding on the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users; (540) allowing, by a chat module of the processing subsystem, the plurality of users to post comments about the one or more desired things to do and simultaneously view the things to do that is always pinned to the top of the group chat thereby preventing the plurality of users (155) to scroll down each time to view the things to do; (545) allowing, by a rating module of the processing subsystem, the plurality of users to vote and rate the one or more desired things to do thereby selecting one or more desired things to do based on the number of votes; (550) reserving, by a scheduling module of the processing subsystem, the one or more desired things to do, upon selecting, for a specific date and time; (555) splitting, by a payment module of the processing subsystem, a payment payable for the one or more desired things to do among the plurality of users based on a predefined ratio; (560) and providing, by the payment module of the processing subsystem, secure transactions for the said payment from the plurality of users. (565)