WO2001018689A1

WO2001018689A1 - Ergonomic reader software

Info

Publication number: WO2001018689A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/022298
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jeff B. Chung
Original assignee: Peoplepublish, Inc.
Priority date: 1999-09-03
Filing date: 2000-08-15
Publication date: 2001-03-15
Also published as: AU6772500A

Abstract

The present invention discloses reader software for ergonomic display of text on a video display (320), the reader software for use primarily in conjunction with an internet browser program. The reader software includes an access module that accesses one or more internet text files (1100) stored in a first memory location (1106), in response to the direction of the internet browser (100C). The reader software further includes a text processing module which, after an internet text file has been accessed by the access module, processes the text in accordance with the dictates of plurality of display parameters (108). The presentation of the processed text is visually indicated on a video display by an image of a turning page and/or a fade in fade out process the reader software also comprises a bookmark file which stores links to user-specified pages.

Description

ERGONOMIC READER SOFTWARE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. The Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to software for reading and displaying text files. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to improved reader software that employs display parameters to automatically format a text file in such a way that a user can view the text file as a series of pages, each of which can be displayed in its entirety on the user display screen, thus obviating the need for scrolling or other display manipulation, and making the text file easier for the user to read.

2. The Prior State of the Art

The ubiquitous nature of the internet and the rapid expansion of the types and numbers of web sites accessible via the internet have combined to place a virtual mine of information at the fingertips of anyone possessing a computer and a modem.

Because of the huge volume of information available, and because access to that information is relatively reliable, computer users are spending more and more time at their computers exploring and using web sites. Additionally, the development of user-friendly web 'browsers' which enable a user to quickly and easily navigate the internet and individual web sites has also been a major contributor to the increased usage of computers and the internet. The web browser is a means by which the user can electronically "travel' from one web site to another; the web browser also serves to display the textual and graphical data of the web site on the user's display screen.

While exploring the internet and web sites, computer users are exposed to a wide variety of graphical and textual data. The graphical data, in particular, is often displayed in a rather sophisticated manner; use of media such as video clips and three dimensional pictures and images is not uncommon. The display of textual data, on the other hand, is somewhat problematic.

One of the difficulties with displaying textual data is that the typical web browser is unequipped to display some types of textual data; thus, the user is completely unable to view these text types. The textual data that can be displayed is typically displayed either by the browser itself, or by means of a text reader that is 'plugged in' to the browser and initialized by the browser when the browser encounters a specified text format. In either case, the textual data that is displayed is often presented to the user in a relatively primitive fashion based on default values assigned to a variety of display parameters; typically, the user has little or no control over the values of such display parameters as font size, reading area, and color.

Furthermore, the default values typically assigned to the display parameters are not necessarily calculated to improve readability or ease of reading by a user; that is, typical reader software fails to address the ergonomic considerations and needs of the user. For example, an 8 point font might be well-suited for a particularly quick user who wishes to scan a large amount of material in a short time; on the other hand, a user who reads more slowly and/or has impaired vision would likely desire a larger font size such as 12 or 14 point which would enable that user to more readily view and read the displayed text.

Another important ergonomic consideration regards the color of displayed text and the color of the background upon which it is displayed. Some colors and color combinations are better suited to displaying and reading text than are others. Further, some contrast between the text and background is required, otherwise the text could not be discerned. On the other hand, it is known that too much contrast is undesirable as well. Notwithstanding the importance of color and contrast in the readability of text on a display screen, most typical text readers and browsers fail to consider these issues.

Another shortcoming associated with currently available browsers and plug-in text readers is that they display text in such a way as to require the user to scroll up and down and across the display in order to view all of the text presented. Scrolling is, at best, inconvenient; further, moving text vertically and horizontally while reading is an unnatural way to view and read text, and is distracting to the user. Further, the typical user has a unique field of vision within which it is most efficient and convenient for that user to read; the unnatural reading process that results from scrolling requires the user to constantly change his field of vision and focus, and thus disrupts the reading process.

As a result of text readers and internet browsers' failure to address the ergonomic needs of users, users often suffer from physical conditions such as evestrain, headaches, and the like when compelled to read large amounts of text displayed by the typical w eb browser or plug-in reader.

The aforementioned problems become particularly acute when a user wishes to view and read a large amount of text, such as an entire book, on a computer display screen. For example, there are now a number of web sites devoted to making electronic versions of public domain books available for viewing. Many of the books available for on-line reading are quite lengthy and would be very inconvenient to read with the currently available browsers and plug-in readers. The same considerations also apply to electronic, or on-line, publishing wherein a publisher makes an electronic book or publication available for on-line viewing and reading. Clearly, readability of on-line text is an issue of paramount concern in instances where a user will be reading large amounts of text from a computer display screen; further, readability, or the lack thereof, will play a critical role in the long-term viability of online publishing.

A final problem, more typical of large text files, concerns the 'navigability' of the text file. That is, in a large text file that requires a great deal of scrolling or other manipulation, it is not uncommon for the user to get lost in the document. Further, because of the relatively primitive nature of the typical text file reader, a user cannot quickly and easily jump from one place in the document to another. Rather, the user must scroll through the document until the desired location is found; typical text readers make no provision for storing the addresses of desired locations for ready access at some future time.

Accordingly, what is needed is improved reader software for displaying text documents of a variety of formats on a computer display screen in a manner that closely simulates the display of text by a hardcopy book. Specifically, the reader software should be able to process a wide variety of text formats and/or should be able to convert a variety of text formats to a text format which is readily displayed by the reader software. Further, the reader software should be able to display at least one entire page of processed text completely within the viewable area of the computer display screen so as to preclude the need for scrolling. Also, the reader software should display text on a user computer screen in consonance with a set of display parameters such as reading area, font size, and background color; the values of at least some of the display parameters should be variable to suit the viewing and reading needs of particular users, and to suit the characteristics of a particular computer display screen. The reader software should further be capable of applying these display parameters to the display of text documents currently being displayed by internet browsers. Finally, the reader software should permit a user to readily jump from one location in the document to another location specified by the user, without scrolling or other manipulation of the display. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been developed in response to the current state of the art, and in particular, in response to these and other problems and needs that have not been fully or completely solved by currently available reader software. In summary, advantages and features are achieved with improved reader software for use in displaying text files on the display screen of a user computer.

Embodiments of the present invention are particularly suitable for use as a stand-alone program, and alternatively as a plug-in module for use in conjunction with an internet browser program. In a preferred embodiment, the reader software operates as a plug-in module in conjunction with an internet browser program. When the browser accesses a text file formatted for the reader software of the present invention, the browser initializes the reader software, which then accesses and displays the text file. Preferably, the browser points the reader software to a memory location wherein the text file is located; the reader software searches the memory location for a pre-defined text file format and, upon recognition of the pre-defined text file format, retrieves the text file for processing. Where necessary, the reader software converts the text file to a format, which the reader software can display. Preferably, the reader software uniformly distributes the text in the text file throughout a plurality of electronic pages. The reader software then formats each of the electronic pages so that each page can be displayed in its entirety on a user display screen, without the need for scrolling or other display manipulation; in a preferred embodiment, the display screen is a computer video screen. After formatting the electronic pages, the reader software then stores the electronic pages in a memory location for retrieval and display. Preferably, the reader software allows a user to view a plurality of books simultaneously. In a preferred embodiment, the text is distributed throughout the electronic pages in consonance with a plurality of display parameters, which include, but are not limited to, font size, background color, and reading area. Preferably, the background color is beige or the like, and the text is a dark color such as black, blue, gray, or the like. The reading area display parameter preferably comprises at least a variable height and width. In a preferred embodiment, the values of at least some of the display parameters are variable and are assigned by a user so as to accommodate both the viewing and reading needs of particular users, as well as the characteristics of a particular display screen. Further, in a preferred embodiment, the text is displayed on the screen much like the manner in which a book appears to a reader, i.e., two pages at a time. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, the user can readily adjust at least some of the display parameters so as to display more than two pages at once. Preferably, the user can adjust at least some of the display parameters so that a relatively greater number of pages can be displayed on relatively larger display screens. That is, the user can desirably adjust the number of pages displayed in accordance with the size of the user's display.

Preferably, the reader software comprises decryption capability to decrypt encrypted text files when a user has satisfied specified conditions; in a preferred embodiment, the specified conditions include, but are not limited to, electronic payment, and password requirements. Further, in a preferred embodiment, the reader software also comprises usage types which define the uses that a particular user ma> make of a given text document; preferred usage types include, but are not limited to. copying, and printing the text document, wherein printing is limited to a predetermined number of copies or a pre-determined portion of the book. Usage types may also be used to restrict the use of the text document to a particular computer.

The reader software also preferably includes a file wherein a user can store links to desired locations in the text document; by selecting a link, the user can jump directly to that location without scrolling or other manipulation of the display.

These and other features, and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to more fully understand the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention and its presently understood best mode for making and using the same will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure la is a schematic diagram indicating the structural interrelationships between the reader software of the present invention in the form of a plug-in text reader, internet browser, and various computer elements, the computer elements including a display, a processor, memory elements, and a user input device; Figure l b is a flow diagram showing the functional interrelationships among the reader software of the present invention in the form of a plug-in text reader, an internet browser, and various computer elements, the computer elements including a display, a processor, memory elements, and a user input device; Figure l c is a flow diagram of an alternative embodiment of the functional interrelationships among the reader software of the present invention in the form of a plug-in text reader, an internet browser, and various computer elements, the computer elements including a display, a processor, memory elements, and a user input device;

Figure 2a is a schematic diagram of the reader software of the present invention depicted as a stand-alone program, and the structural interrelationships among the reader software, a user, a processor, memory elements, and a display;

Figure 2b is a flow diagram showing the functional interrelationships among the reader software of the present invention as a stand-alone program, a user, a processor, memory elements, and a display; Figure 3a is a schematic diagram of an electronic data package incorporating reader software of the present invention, display parameters, textual data, and usage criteria - the structural interrelationships among the reader software of the present invention, a processor, memory elements, and a display are also depicted;

Figure 3b is a flow diagram showing the functional interrelationships among the various elements of the electronic data package, and the functional interrelationships among the reader software of the present invention, the processor, memory elements, and a display;

Figure 4a is a depiction of an arrangement for implementing a method for selling books in electronic format; Figure 4b is a flow diagram showing the functional interrelationships among the various elements for implementing a method for selling books in electronic format, the elements including a vendor web site, book inventory, reader software of the present invention, a display, and a processor;

Figure 5a is a depiction of an arrangement for implementing a method for publishing books in electronic format; and

Figure 5b is a flow diagram showing the functional interrelationships among the various elements for implementing a method for publishing books in electronic format, the elements including a publisher web site, book inventory, reader software of the present invention, and a display. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made to figures wherein like structures will be provided with like reference designations. It is to be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of presently preferred embodiments of the invention, and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

In general, the present invention relates to reader software for use in processing and displaying text files on a user display. Figures l a through 5b indicate various presently preferred embodiments of reader software conforming to the teachings of the invention. Reference is first made to Figure la, which depicts reader software 100 and an internet browser 200; in a preferred embodiment, the reader software 100 operates as a plug-in in conjunction with the internet browser 200. Both the reader software 100 and the internet browser 200 are in communication with a computer 300. The computer 300, in turn, is in communication with the internet 400. The reader software 100 comprises a bookmark file 102, an access module

104, a text processing module 106, and a display parameter file 108 comprising a plurality of pre-defined display parameters 1 10 each having pre-defined values. The display parameters 1 10 include, but are not limited to, a reading area 112 having a variable height and width, and a font size 1 14; the reading area 1 12 defines a space in which text will be displayed for viewing by a user. Note that while this particular preferred embodiment comprises a display parameter file 108 of pre-defined display parameters 1 10 each having a pre-defined value, the present invention also contemplates reader software 100 having display parameters 1 10 whose values are user-variable. The use of display parameters, and particularly variable display parameters, is advantageous because the display parameters permit user-customized text display. Thus, in an alternative embodiment, the user has the option of displaying a number of pages in consonance with the size of the display in use, the larger the display, the more pages can be displayed at any one time. This feature is particularly advantageous where the display in use is 17 inches or larger. In an alternative embodiment, the reader software 100 automatically assigns a value to at least one of the pre-defined display parameters 1 10. In yet another alternative embodiment, the reader software 100 assigns a value to the reading area 1 12 based upon the characteristics of the particular display 302 to be used for displaying text. In addition to the display 302, the computer 300 comprises a processor 304. and at least a first memory location 306 and a second memory location 308; finally, the computer 300 further comprises a user input device 310 for receiving and transmitting input from a user 312. In an alternative embodiment, the display 302, the user input device 310, and the user 312 are in a location remote from the computer

300. An example of this alternative embodiment is an arrangement wherein a user/subscriber interacts with the internet via a keyboard in his home, information thus obtained is then displayed on the user's television set; the user has no computer however, the computer that processes input provided by the user is located remotely from the user.

With reference now to Figure lb, and with continuing reference to Figure la, in step 500, input from a user 312 via a user input device 310 directs the processor 304 to initialize the internet browser 200. After initialization of the internet browser 200, step 502 is entered wherein the internet browser 200 causes internet files, indicated generally as 402, to be downloaded from the internet 400 to the first memory location 306. The downloaded internet text files 402 may be subdivided into two categories: i) internet text files 404 having a format, or formats, that makes them compatible for display (hereinafter 'browser-compatible text file 404') within the internet browser 200; and, ii) internet text files 406 having a format, or formats, which makes them incompatible for display (hereinafter 'browser-incompatible text file

406') within the internet browser 200.

In step 504, the internet browser 200 examines the downloaded internet text files 402. If, after examination of the downloaded internet text files 402, the internet browser 200 detects browser-compatible text files 404, the internet browser enters step 506, causing the processor 304 to retrieve the browser-compatible text files 404 from the first memory location 306 and display the browser-compatible text files 404 on display 302.

In an alternative embodiment, the internet browser 200, upon detection of browser-compatible text files 404, may nevertheless initialize the reader software for display of the browser-compatible text files 404. With specific reference to Figure lc. steps 500 and 502 would be entered (as in Figure l b.), then the process would proceed directly to step 508 wherein the internet browser 200 causes the reader software to be initialized. Next, step 510 is entered wherein the internet browser 200 points the access module 104 to the first memory location 306. In step 513, the access module 104 causes the processor 304 to search the first memory location 306 for downloaded internet text files 402; with continuing reference to step 513, the processor 304 then retrieves the downloaded internet text files 402. The process then enters step 514 wherein the text processing module 106 causes the processor 304 to do the following: i) uniformly distribute text from downloaded internet text files 402 throughout a set 408 of electronic pages 410; ii) retrievably store the electronic pages 410 in the second memory location 308; iii) retrieve one or more electronic pages 410 from the second memory location 308; and iv) display the retrieved electronic pages 410 within the space defined by the reading area 1 12. After step 514 is complete, the process then enters steps 516, 518, and 520 as indicated in Figure l c. Steps 516, 518, and 520 of Figure lc. are identical to those steps in Figure l b.; thus, no further description of those steps is required or provided.

With continuing attention now to Figure l b., if, after examination of the downloaded internet text files 402, the internet browser 200 detects browser- incompatible text files 406, the internet browser 200 enters step 508. causing the reader software 100 to be initialized.

In step 510, the internet browser 200 points the access module 104 to the first memory location 306. In response to the direction from the internet browser 200. the access module 104 enters step 512 by accessing the browser-incompatible text files 406. Specifically, the access module 104 causes the processor 304 to search the first memory location 306 and retrieve any and all browser-incompatible text files 406 found therein. In a preferred embodiment, the reader software 100 is capable of displaying a plurality of pre-defined internet text file format types; in an alternative preferred embodiment, the reader software 100 causes the browser-incompatible text files 406 to be converted to a format compatible for display within the reader software 100.

After the browser-incompatible text files 406 have been accessed by the access module 104, step 514 is entered wherein the text processing module 106 causes the processor 304 to do the following: i) uniformly distribute text from the accessed browser-incompatible text files 406 throughout a set 408 of electronic pages 410. wherein the distribution of the text is consistent with the pre-defined display parameters 1 10; ii) retrievably store the electronic pages 410 in the second memory location 308; iii) retrieve one or more entire electronic pages 410 from the second memory location 308; iv) display on display 302 the retrieved electronic pages 410 entirely within the space defined by the reading area 1 12, i.e., the retrieved electronic page(s) 410 are displayed so that the entire page(s) can be viewed at once without scrolling or other display manipulation; v) clear a displayed electronic page 410 from the reading area 1 12; and vi) retrieve one or more electronic pages 410 from the second memory location 308, and display on display 302 the retrieved electronic page(s) 410 entirely within the reading area 112. When the electronic page(s) 410 are displayed thus, the need for scrolling or other display manipulation by the user is obviated. This feature, in combination with the variable display parameters previously discussed, makes this invention very flexible and particularly well-suited to display text in a manner that is sensitive to the unique ergonomic needs of a wide variety of computer users. Further, in an embodiment where at least some of the display parameters are adjustable by the user, the inherent flexibility of the present invention is further enhanced by the fact that the user can adjust the number of pages displayed in accordance with the size of the user's display. In particular, users with relatively large displays, e.g., 17 inches or larger, can display multiple pages at once, thus reducing the number of page turnings required in reading a given text. In a preferred embodiment, sub-parts (v) and (vi) of step 514 are performed in response to input from the user 312 via a user input device 310.

Also, in a preferred embodiment, the bookmark file 102 comprises a plurality of links 105 wherein selection of a particular link 105 by a user 312 will cause the reader software 100 to enter step 516 wherein the reader software 100 displays an electronic page 410 associated with the selected link 105; the links 105 are specified by a user 312 and can be added or deleted to/from the bookmark file 102 at the discretion of the user 312.

In a preferred embodiment, performance of sub-parts (v) and (vi) of step 514 is visually indicated on the display by means of a visual indication process which causes text contained in an electronic page 410 to appear on, and/or disappear from, the display 302, in a gradual manner. Preferably, the visual indication process comprises at least 'fade in' and 'fade out' steps. Specifically, the text of the electronic page 410 being cleared fades out from the display 302, and then the text from the new electronic page 410 to be displayed fades in to the display 302: preferably, the visual indication process occurs in a measured subfraction of a second.

The fade out and fade in steps may be accomplished in any number of ways, including, but not limited to, gradually shrinking the displayed text to a predetermined size and then displaying, in a predetermined size, the text of a new electronic page 410 and then gradually increasing the size of the newly displayed text to a size consonant with the display parameters 1 10. In an alternative embodiment, performance of sub-part (v) of step 514 is preferably visually indicated on display 302 by an image of a turning page or the like. In yet another alternative embodiment, performance of sub-part (v) of step 514 is visually indicated on display 302 by an image of a turning page or the like, either alone, or in combination with the gradual manner previously described.

Reference is next made to Figure 2a which depicts reader software 100A comprising an access module 104A, a text processing module 106A, and a display parameter file 108 comprising a plurality of pre-defined display parameters 1 10, the display parameters 1 10 including a reading area 1 12 having a variable height and width, and a font size 1 14; in an alternative embodiment the display parameters 1 10 include background color, wherein the background color is beige or the like. Further, in an alternative embodiment, the font size is 8 point or the equivalent. In a preferred embodiment, the reader software 100A further comprises a user input device 310 for facilitating communication between a user 312 and the processor 304. In an alternative embodiment, the reader software 100A further comprises a decryption key 600 to decrypt encrypted, downloaded internet text files 602 prior to processing of those files by the text processing module 106A.

With continuing reference to Figure 2a, the access module 104A is in communication with the processor 304. The processor 304, in turn, is in communication with a first memory location 306 and with a second memory location 308; the processor 304 is also in communication with a video display 302.

With reference now to Figure 2b, and with continuing reference to Figure 2a, in step 700 the access module 104A accesses a downloaded internet text file 402 stored in the first memory location 306. Preferably, the access module 104A performs step 700 by causing the processor 304 to do at least the following: i) search the first memory location 306; ii) identify downloaded internet text files 402 found in the first memory location 306; and iii) retrieve one or more of the downloaded internet text files 402 from the first memory location 306. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the access module 104A accesses a downloaded internet text file 402 stored in the first memory location 306 in response to direction passed to the access module 104A by a user 312 via the user interface device 310 and the processor 304.

After a downloaded internet text file 402 has been accessed by the access module 104A, the text processing module 106A performs step 702 by causing the processor 304 to do the following: i) uniformly distribute text from the internet text file throughout a set 408 of electronic pages 410, wherein the distribution, as previously noted, is consistent with the dictates of the display parameters 1 10; and, ii) retrievably store the electronic pages 410 in the second memory location 308.

In an alternative embodiment, the text processing module causes the processor 304 to perform the following additional tasks: a) retrieve one or more entire electronic pages 410 from the second memory location 308; b) display on display 302 the retrieved electronic pages 410 entirely within the space defined by the reading area 1 12, i.e., the retrieved electronic page(s) 410 are displayed so that the entire page(s) can be viewed at once without scrolling or other display manipulation; c) clear a displayed electronic page 410 from the reading area 1 1 2; and d) retrieve one or more electronic pages 410 from the second memory location 308 and display on display 302 the retrieved electronic page(s) 410 entirely within the space defined by the reading area 1 12. Further, sub-parts (a) through (d) are performed in response to input from the user 312 via a user input device 310; further, performance of sub-part (c) of step 702 is preferably visually indicated on display 302 by an image of a turning page or the like. Additionally, when two electronic pages 410 are simultaneously displayed, the electronic pages 410 are displayed as a left page and a right page, so as to mimic a hard copy book.

In an alternative embodiment, additional step 701 is performed wherein the text processing module 106A causes the processor 304 to convert the downloaded internet text file 402 to a pre-defined format prior to uniformly distributing the text from the downloaded internet next file 402 throughout a set 408 of electronic pages 410.

Reference is next made to Figure 3a which depicts an electronic data package 800 comprising textual data 802, a display parameter file 108 comprising a plurality of pre-defined display parameters 1 10. each pre-defined display parameter 1 10 having a pre-defined value, and reader software 100B. In an alternative embodiment, the electronic data package 800 also includes pre-defined usage types 804, wherein the pre-defined usage types 804 include electronic copying of the textual data 802, printing a pre-determined number of copies of the textual data 802, and viewing of the textual data 802 on a specified display. In another alternative embodiment, said predefined usage types comprise self-executing programmable code. Pre-defined usage types are a valuable feature of the invention because they allow the vendor 806 a significant measure of control over copyrighted works. With continuing reference to Figure 3a, the reader software 100B is in communication with a processor 304; the processor 304. in turn, is in communication with a display 302 and a memory location 306A. In an alternative embodiment, some or all of the electronic data package 800 is encrypted to prevent unauthorized use; use of the electronic data package 800 is enabled when the encrypted portion of the electronic data package 800 is decrypted by a customer 312A using a decryption key 600A provided to the customer 312A by a vendor 806 after satisfaction by the customer 312A of pre-defined criteria. The pre-defined criteria preferably comprises electronic payment; in an alternative embodiment, the pre-defined criteria comprises entry of a pre-determined password.

Turning now to the display parameters 1 10, in a preferred embodiment, the pre-defined display parameters 1 10 include a reading area 1 12 of variable height and width, and a font size 1 14; in an alternative embodiment, the pre-defined display parameters 1 10 also include background color 808, the backg ound color being beige or the like.

In an alternative embodiment, one or more of the pre-defined display parameters 1 10 has a value assigned by the customer 312A so that the customer can, among other things, modify the display so as to permit viewing of multiple pages at one time. This feature is particularly advantageous where the user's display is 17 inches or larger because it enables the user to display a relatively greater number of pages and thus reduces the number of page turnings associated with the reading of a given text. In yet another alternative embodiment, the reader software 100B causes the processor 304 to assign a value to the reading area 1 12, wherein the value assigned is based upon the display characteristics of the video display 302; the relevant display characteristics include, but are not limited to, screen size and the maximum viewable area supported by the screen.

With reference now to Figure 3b, and with continuing reference to Figure 3a, step 900 is entered when a customer 312A accesses the electronic data package 800; step 902 comprises customer initialization of the data package 800. After step 902 is performed, step 904 is entered wherein the reader software 100B causes the processor

304 to do the following: i) uniformly distribute the textual data 802 throughout a set 408 of electronic pages 410 in a manner consistent with the pre-defined display parameters 1 10: and ii) store the electronic pages 410 in the memory location 306A for selective retrieval by the customer 312A and display on video display 302. In an alternative embodiment, the additional step 906 is performed in response to customer 312A input, wherein reader software 100B causes the processor 304 to do the following after storing the set 408 of electronic pages 410 in the memory location 306A: i) retrieve at least one or more electronic pages 410 from the memory location 306A; ii) display on display 302 the retrieved electronic page(s) 410 in their entirety within the space defined by the reading area 112; iii) clear one or more displayed electronic page(s) 410 from the reading area 1 12; and iv) retrieve and display, on display 302, entirely within the space defined by the reading area 1 12, another electronic page 410. Reference is next made to Figure 4a which depicts an arrangement for implementing a method 1000 for selling books 1 100 in electronic format. In particular, Figure 4a depicts an inventory 1 102 of books 1 100 in electronic format. The processor 304 communicates with the inventory 1 102 of books 1 100 in electronic format by means of a modem 1 104 or the like. The processor 304 in turn, is connected both to a display 302 and to the reader software 100C, thereby facilitating communication between the reader software 100C and the display 302. Further, the reader software 100C includes a display parameter file 108 comprising a plurality of pre-defined display parameters 1 10.

In an alternative embodiment, the inventory 1 102 resides on a vendor web site 1 106, and the vendor web site 1 106 is in communication with the processor 304; preferably, communication between the vendor web site 1 106 and the processor 304 is facilitated by a modem 1 104, as well as an internet browser 200, or the like.

With reference now to Figure 4b, and with continuing reference to Figure 4a, a flow diagram is depicted showing the steps of the method 1000 for selling books 1 100 in electronic format. Specifically, in step 1002 an inventory 1 102 of books 1 100 in electronic format is maintained. In step 1004 of the method 1000, a customer 312A is allowed to select at least one of the books 1 100 in electronic format. In step 1006 the customer 312A must satisfy pre-defined access criteria 1 108 in order to advance to step 1010 wherein the customer 312A is permitted to retrieve the selected book 1 1 10. In a preferred embodiment, the pre-defined access criteria 1 108 comprise, but are not limited to, electronic payment, entry of a pre-determined password, consent to use conditions, consent to licensing agreements, or the like; the present invention also contemplates combinations of these criteria. If the customer 312A fails to satisfy the pre-defined access criteria 1 108. the method 1000 for selling books 1 100 in electronic format enters step 1008 wherein access to the selected book 1 1 10 is denied. Upon satisfaction by the customer 312A of the pre-defined access criteria

1 108, and retrieval of the selected book 1 1 10, the method 1000 for selling books 1 100 in electronic format enters step 1012 wherein the reader software 100C allows the customer 312A to view the selected book 1 1 10 by causing processor 304 to do the following: i) read the textual data from the selected book 1 1 10; ii) assign values to the pre-defined display parameters 1 10, wherein the pre-defined display parameters

1 10 include reading area 1 12, and font size 1 14 - note that this invention also contemplates the use of display parameters 1 10 such as font type, and background color, in combination with reading area 1 12 and font size 1 14, the background color being preferably beige or the like; iii) uniformly distribute text from the selected book

1 1 10 throughout a set 408 of electronic pages 410, in a manner consistent with the pre-defined display parameters 1 10; iv) display on display 302 at least one electronic page 410 entirely within a space defined by the reading area 412; and, v) clear from the video display 302 one or more electronic page(s) 410, and display on display 302 another electronic page 410 entirely within a space defined by the reading area 1 12.

In a preferred embodiment, the customer 312A selects which electronic page 410 or pages will be displayed and/or cleared from the display 302.

After step 1012, the method enters step 1014 wherein the customer 312A is permitted to use the selected book 1 1 10 in accordance with pre-defined usage types 804; in a preferred embodiment, the pre-defined usage types 804 include copying and printing the selected book 1 1 10. Note that the invention also contemplates usage types such as forwarding, or sending, the selected book 1 100 by electronic mail.

In an alternative embodiment, the method 1000 of selling books 1 100 in electronic format comprises the further step 1016 of encrypting the selected book 1 1 10 prior to storage in the inventory 1 102; an additional step 1018 is performed when the reader software 100C decrypts the selected book 1 1 10 upon satisfaction by the customer 312A of pre-defined access criteria 1 108. Alternatively, step 1018 is entered when the customer 312A decrypts the selected book 11 10 using a decryption key 602B provided to the customer 312A by the vendor 806 upon satisfaction by the customer 312A of the pre-defined access criteria 1 108. This feature is particularly valuable in protecting the vendor 806 from unauthorized use of the selected book 1 1 10. Without this feature, electronic publishing of copyrighted material would not be practical; any user could copy and/or sell the books 1 100 at will, thus denying the vendor profits from the sales of the books. In an alternative embodiment, the method 1000 of publishing books 1 100 in electronic format further comprises step 1020 wherein a customer 312A is allowed limited access to a pre-defined portion 1 1 12 of the selected book 1 100 in electronic format, and step 1022 wherein the customer 312A uses the reader software 100C to display only, on the video display 302, the pre-defined portion 1 1 12 of the selected book 1 1 10. More specifically, in step 1022, the reader software 100C causes the processor 304 to do the following: i) read the textual data associated with the predefined portion 1 1 12 of the selected book 1 1 10; ii) assign values to the pre-defined display parameters 1 10, wherein the pre-defined display parameters 1 10 include reading area, and font size - in an alternative embodiment, the set 108 of pre-defined display parameters 100 includes background color, the background color being beige or the like; iii) uniformly distribute text from the pre-defined portion 1 1 12 of the selected book 1 1 10 into at least one electronic page 410, in a manner consistent with the pre-defined display parameters 1 10; and, iv) display on display 302 the electronic page 410 entirely within the space defined by the reading area 112. This feature of the invention thus permits a potential customer to preview a portion of an electronic book prior to committing to purchase the book; this feature is particularly useful where a potential customer is unfamiliar with a particular book.

Reference is next made to Figure 5a, which depicts an arrangement for implementing a method 1200 for electronically publishing literary works 1 100A in electronic format. In particular, Figure 5a depicts an inventory 1 102A of literary works 1 100A in electronic format; the literary works 1 100A preferably comprise books containing text, or containing text in combination with graphics. The invention contemplates electronic publishing of a wide variety of other literary works as well including, but not limited to, magazines, newspapers, journals etc. Each literary work

1 100A in electronic format is preferably packaged with pre-defined usage types 804 which serve to limit the nature of the usage of the literary work 1 100A in accordance with the desires of the publisher; the pre-defined usage criteria 804 preferably comprises self-executing programmable code. Now, with continuing reference to Figure 5a, reader software HOC is in communication with the inventory 1 102A of literary works 1 100A in electronic format, and with a display 302; further, the reader software 1 10C is responsive to input from the customer 312A.

With reference now to Figure 5b. and with continuing reference to Figure 5a, a flow diagram showing the steps of the method 1200 for electronically publishing literary works 1 100A in electronic format is depicted. Specifically, in step 1202, an inventory 1 102A of literary works 1 100A in electronic format is maintained by a publisher 1300; in a preferred embodiment, the inventory 1 102A of literary works 1 100A in electronic format resides on a publisher web site 1302. Step 1204 is entered when the publisher 1300 accepts a literary work 1304 for publication. In step 1206, the literary work 1304 is rendered into a literary work 1 100A in electronic format, preferably, an electronic format that is compatible with reader software 100C. Next, step 1208 is executed wherein the literary work 1302 is packaged with the pre-defined usage types 804; in step 1210, the literary work 1 100A in electronic format, packaged with the pre-defined usage criteria 804, is stored in inventory 1 102A. In an alternative embodiment, the literary works 1 100A in electronic format are encrypted prior to storage in inventory 1 102A.

Step 1212 is executed when a customer 312A selects one of the literary works 1 100A in electronic format; after selection, step 1214 is entered wherein the customer 312A must satisfy pre-defined access criteria 1 108 in order to use the selected literary work 1306 in electronic format. In a preferred embodiment, the pre-defined access criteria 1 108 includes entry of a pre-determined password, and/or electronic payment.

If the customer 312A fails to satisfy the pre-defined access criteria 1 108, step 1216 is entered and the customer 312A is denied access to the selected literary work 1306 in electronic format. Alternatively, if the customer 312A satisfies the pre- defined access criteria 1 108, step 1218 is entered and the customer 312A is allowed to retrieve the selected literary work 1306.

In an alternative embodiment, step 1220 is entered wherein the reader software H OC decrypts an encrypted selected literary work 1308 in electronic format upon satisfaction by the customer 312A of the pre-defined access criteria 1 108; in yet another alternative embodiment, step 1220 is performed when the customer 312A decrypts the encrypted selected literary work 1308 in electronic format using a decryption key 602C provided by the publisher 1300 upon satisfaction, by the customer 312A, of the pre-defined access criteria 1 108.

With continuing reference to Figure 5b, step 1222 is then entered, wherein the reader software H OC displays the selected literary work 1306 in electronic format on the video display 302. In a preferred embodiment, the reader software 1 10C performs step 1222 by doing the following: i) reading the selected literary work 1306 in electronic format; ii) assigning values to pre-defined display parameters 1 10. wherein the pre-defined display parameters 1 10 include reading area 1 12 having a variable height and width, and font size 1 14 - in an alternative embodiment, one or more of the display parameters 1 10 has a value that is variable by the customer 312A so that the customer can, among other things, modify the display so as to permit viewing of multiple pages at one time - this feature is particularly advantageous where the user's display is 17 inches or larger because it enables the user to display a relatively greater number of pages and thus reduces the number of page turnings associated with the reading of a given text; iii) uniformly distributing text from the selected literary work

1306 in electronic format into a plurality 408 of electronic pages 410, in a manner consistent with the pre-defined display parameters 1 10; iv) displaying at least one of the plurality 408 of electronic pages 410 entirely within the space defined by the reading area 1 12; and, v) clearing from the video display 302 one or more of the displayed electronic pages 410 and display another electronic page 410, or pages, entirely within the space defined by the reading area 1 12. Preferably, sub-parts (iv) and (v) of step 1222 are performed in response to input from the customer 312A. Finally, when two electronic pages 410 are simultaneously displayed, the electronic pages 410 are displayed as a left page and a right page, so as to mimic a hard copy book.

Finally, step 1224 of the method 1200 is entered wherein the customer 312A is permitted to use the selected literary work 1306 in electronic format in accordance with the pre-defined usage criteria 804; in a preferred embodiment, permitted customer usage includes printing a pre-determined number of copies of the selected and retrieved literary work 1306, and displaying the selected and retrieved literary work 1306 on a pre-determined display.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. What is claimed is:

Claims

1 . A method for electronically publishing literary works, said method comprising the steps of;

(a) maintaining an inventory of literary works, wherein said literary works are stored in electronic format; (b) accepting a literary work for publication;

(c) rendering said literary work in an electronic format, and thereafter packaging said literary work with pre-defined usage types;

(d) storing said literary work in said electronic format in said inventory of literary works; (e) allowing at least one customer to select and retrieve, from said inventory, at least one of said literary works in said electronic format, retrieval of said literary work being conditioned upon satisfaction by said customer of pre-defined access criteria;

(f) using reader software for displaying on a video display said literary work in said electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer; and

(g) allowing said customer to use said literary work in said electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer, customer usage being consistent with said pre-defined usage types.

2. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein said pre-defined usage types comprise use of said literary work on a pre-determined display.

3. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein said pre-defined usage types comprise printing a pre-determined number of copies of said literary work..

4. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein said reader performs at least the following steps:

(a) reading said literary work in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer;

(b) assigning values to at least one display parameter in a set of pre-defined display parameters for said literary work in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer, said display parameters including;

(i) a reading area, said reading area having a variable height and width, and

(ii) a font size;

(c) uniformly distributing text from said literary work in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer throughout a plurality of electronic pages, distribution of said text throughout said plurality of electronic pages being consistent with said display parameters;

(d) displaying at least one electronic page entirely within a space defined by said reading area; and (e) clearing from said space at least one electronic page and displaying another of said electronic pages entirely within said space defined by said reading area.

5. The method according to Claim 4, wherein at least two electronic pages are displayed simultaneously, one of said simultaneously displayed electronic pages being displayed in a left portion of said space defined by said reading area, and another of said simultaneously displayed electronic pages being displayed in a right portion of said space defined by said reading area.

6. The method according to Claim 1, wherein said inventory of literary works in electronic format resides on a publisher web site.

7. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein said pre-defined access criteria comprises electronic payment.

8. The method according to Claim 1, wherein said pre-defined access criteria comprises entry of a pre-determined password.

9. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein said literary works in electronic format comprise books.

10. The method according to Claim 1, wherein said customer usage comprises copying and printing said literary works in electronic format.

1 1. The method according to Claim 1 , wherein said literary work in electronic format comprises text and graphics.

12. The method according to Claim 4, wherein said literary work in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer is encrypted by a publisher prior to storage in said inventory, said literary work in electronic format being decrypted by said reader software upon satisfaction by said customer of said predefined access criteria.

13. The method according to Claim 4, wherein said literary work in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer is encrypted by a publisher prior to storage in said inventory, said literary work in electronic format being decrypted by a customer using a decryption key, said decryption key being provided to said customer by said publisher upon satisfaction by said customer of said pre- defined access criteria.

14. The method according to Claim 1. wherein said pre-defined usage types comprise self-executing code.

15. A method for selling books in electronic format, said method comprising the steps of: (a) maintaining an inventory of books, wherein said books are stored in electronic format;

(b) allowing a customer to select and retrieve at least one of said books in electronic format, retrieval of said book being conditioned upon satisfaction by said customer of pre-defined access criteria; (c) using reader software for displaying on a display said book in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer; and

(d) allowing said customer to use said book in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer, customer usage being consistent with pre-defined usage criteria.

16. The method according to Claim 15, wherein said inventory of books in electronic format is accessed by said customer via a vendor web site.

17. The method according to Claim 15, further comprising the steps of:

(a) allowing said customer to preview a pre-defined portion of a selected book in electronic format; and (b) using said reader software to display on a video display said portion of said selected book in electronic format.

18. The method according to Claim 17, wherein said reader software performs at least the following steps:

(a) reading said pre-defined portion of said selected book in electronic format;

(b) assigning a value to at least one display parameter in a set of pre-defined display parameters for said pre-defined portion of said book in electronic format, said display parameters including;

(i) a reading area, said reading area having a variable height and width, and

(ii) a font size;

(c) uniformly distributing text from said pre-defined portion of said book in electronic format into at least one electronic pages, distribution of said text being consistent with said display parameters; (d) displaying said at least one electronic page entirely within a space defined by said reading area.

19. The method according to Claim 15, wherein said reader software causes a processor to perform at least the steps of: (a) reading said selected book in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer;

(b) assigning a value to at least one display parameter in a set of pre-defined display parameters for said book in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer, said pre-defined display parameters including; (i) a reading area, said reading area having a variable height and width, and

(ii) a font size;

(c) uniformly distributing text from said literary work in electronic format selected and retrieved by said customer throughout a plurality of electronic pages, distribution of said text throughout said plurality of electronic pages being consistent with said pre-defined display parameters;

(d) displaying at least one electronic page entirely within a space defined by said reading area; and

(e) clearing from said space at least one electronic page and displaying another of said electronic pages entirely within said space defined by said reading area.

20. The method according to Claim 19, wherein said set of pre-defined display parameters further comprises background color, the background color being beige.

21. The method according to Claim 15, wherein said pre-defined access criteria comprises electronic payment.

22. The method according to Claim 19, wherein said book selected and retrieved by said customer is encrypted by a publisher prior to storage in said inventory, said book being decrypted by said reader upon satisfaction by said customer of said pre-defined access criteria.

23. The method according to Claim 19, wherein said book selected and retrieved by said customer is encrypted by a publisher prior to storage in said inventory, said book being decrypted by a customer using a decryption key, said decryption key being provided to said user by said publisher upon satisfaction by said customer of said pre-defined access criteria.

24. The method according to Claim 15, wherein said book selected and retrieved by said customer comprises text and graphics.

25. An electronic data package for ergonomic presentation of text on a video display, said electronic data package comprising; (a) textual data;

(b) a set of pre-defined display parameters; and

(c) reader software, said reader software causing a processor to perform at least the following steps;

(i) uniformly distribute said textual data throughout a plurality of electronic pages, consistent with said set of pre-defined display parameters; and

(ii) retrievably store said plurality of electronic pages in a memory location.

26. The electronic data package according to Claim 25, wherein said set of pre-defined display parameters comprises;

(a) reading area, said reading area having variable height and width; and

(b) font size.

27. The electronic data package according to Claim 26, wherein at least one display parameter of said set of pre-defined display parameters has a value assigned by a customer.

28. The electronic data package according to Claim 26, wherein said reader software further causes said processor to assign a value to each of said predefined display parameters in said set of pre-defined display parameters.

29. The electronic data package according to Claim 26, wherein said reader software, in response to input from a customer, causes said processor to perform at least the following additional steps of:

(a) retrieving at least one of said plurality of electronic pages from said memory location, said electronic page retrieved being selected by said customer;

(b) displaying entire retrieved electronic page within a space defined by said reading area;

(c) clearing from said space defined by said reading area at least said retrieved electronic page; and (d) retrieving, and displaying within said space defined by said reading area, another entire customer-selected page.

30. The electronic data package according to Claim 26, wherein said set of pre-defined display parameters further comprises background color.

31. The electronic data package according to Claim 30, wherein said background color is beige.

32. The electronic data package according to Claim 25, wherein at least a portion of said electronic data package is encrypted to prevent unauthorized use of said electronic data package, usage of said electronic data package being enabled when said portion is decrypted by a customer using a decryption key, said decryption key being provided to said customer by a vendor of said electronic data package upon satisfaction by said customer of pre-defined criteria, said pre-defined criteria comprising at least electronic payment.

33. The electronic data package according to Claim 25, wherein said electronic data package further comprises at least one pre-defined usage type, said at least one pre-defined usage type comprising self-executing programmable code, and customer usage of said electronic data package being limited by said self-executing programmable code to uses consonant with said at least one pre-defined usage type.

34. The electronic data package according to Claim 33, wherein said at least one usage type comprises printing a pre-determined number of copies of said textual data.

35. The electronic data package according to Claim 33, wherein said at least one usage type comprises viewing said textual data on a pre-determined display.

36. Reader software for ergonomically displaying internet text files on a video display, said reader software comprising:

(a) an access module for accessing at least one internet text file stored in a first memory location;

(b) a set of pre-defined display parameters, said set of pre-defined display parameters including: (i) a reading area, said reading area having variable height and width, and (ii) a font size; and

(c) a text processing module for causing a processor to perform at least the following steps after said internet text file is accessed by said access module; (i) uniformly distributing text from said internet text file throughout a plurality of electronic pages, consistent with said display parameters; and

(ii) retrievably storing said plurality of electronic pages in a second memory location.

37. The reader software according to Claim 36, wherein said access module accesses said internet text file in response to direction from a user, said direction being passed to said access module by said user via a user input device.

38. The reader software according to Claim 36, wherein said access module accesses said internet text file by causing a processor to perform at least the following steps:

(a) searching a first memory location;

(b) identifying internet text files found in said first memory location; and (c) retrieving at least one of said internet text files from said first memory location.

39. The reader software according to Claim 38, wherein said access module causes a processor to convert a retrieved internet text file to a pre-defined format prior to passing said retrieved internet text file to said text processing module.

40. The reader software according to Claim 36, wherein said reader software further comprises a decryption key to decrypt encrypted internet text files.

41. The reader software according to Claim 36, wherein said text processing module causes said processor to perform at least the following additional steps after said plurality of pages is retrievably stored in said second memory location, said following additional steps being performed in response to input from a user:

(a) retrieving at least one entire electronic page of said plurality of electronic pages from said second memory location;

(b) displaying said at least one entire electronic page within a space defined by said reading area; (c) clearing from said space defined by said reading area a displayed electronic page; and

(d) retrieving another entire electronic page of said plurality of electronic pages and displaying said another entire electronic page within said space defined by said reading area.

42. The reader software according to Claim 36. wherein said font size is 8 point.

43. The reader software according to Claim 36, wherein said set of predefined display parameters comprises background color, said background color being beige.

44. The reader software according to Claim 41 , wherein at least two electronic pages are displayed simultaneously, one of said simultaneously displayed electronic pages being displayed in a left portion of said space defined by said reading area, and another of said simultaneously displayed electronic pages being displayed in a right portion of said space defined by said reading area.

45. Reader software for use as a plug-in module in conjunction with an internet browser, said reader software displaying text on a display, said reader software comprising:

(a) an access module for accessing at least one internet text file stored in a first memory location, said accessing performed in response to direction from said internet browser;

(b) a set of pre-defined display parameters, said set of pre-defined display parameters including reading area, said reading area having variable height and width, and font size; (c) a text processing module for causing a processor to perform at least the following steps after said internet text file is accessed by said access module:

(i) uniformly distributing text from said internet text file throughout a plurality of electronic pages, consistent with said display parameters;

(ii) retrievably storing said plurality of electronic pages in a second memory location;

(iii) retrieving at least one entire electronic page of said plurality of electronic pages from said second memory location; (iv) displaying said at least one entire electronic page within a space defined by said reading area;

(v) clearing from said space defined by said reading area a displayed electronic page; and

(vi) retrieving another entire electronic page of said plurality of electronic pages and displaying said another entire electronic page within said space defined by said reading area, wherein steps (v) and (vi) are performed in response to input from a user, and performance of steps (v) and (vi) is visually indicated on said display by a visual indication process which causes text of said electronic page being cleared gradually shrink and then disappear from said display, said visual indication process further causing text from said another entire electronic page to be displayed to appear on said display and gradually enlarge in size, said visual indication process occurring in a measured subfraction of a second; and

(d) a bookmark file containing a plurality of user-specified links, wherein selection of a link by said user will display an electronic page associated with said link.