WO2001063470A2 - Provision of simple access to services - Google Patents

Provision of simple access to services Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2001063470A2
WO2001063470A2 PCT/EP2001/002050 EP0102050W WO0163470A2 WO 2001063470 A2 WO2001063470 A2 WO 2001063470A2 EP 0102050 W EP0102050 W EP 0102050W WO 0163470 A2 WO0163470 A2 WO 0163470A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
code
data
user
information
remote server
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2001/002050
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2001063470A3 (en
Inventor
Jared Grant Coleman
Original Assignee
Mobilemetrics, Incorporated
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Mobilemetrics, Incorporated filed Critical Mobilemetrics, Incorporated
Publication of WO2001063470A2 publication Critical patent/WO2001063470A2/en
Publication of WO2001063470A3 publication Critical patent/WO2001063470A3/en

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Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/90Details of database functions independent of the retrieved data types
    • G06F16/95Retrieval from the web
    • G06F16/955Retrieval from the web using information identifiers, e.g. uniform resource locators [URL]

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method and a system of providing access to various types of resources offered by service providers and content providers via a public access network. Especially, the invention relates to provision for users with access to contents offered by media publishers via a computer network, such as the Internet, wherein readable codes are printed on a document, the document is distributed to end users who use information contained within the code for initiating a transaction with the public access network.
  • a computer network such as the Internet
  • Mobile phones have great potential to give the power to order goods, information and services to people anywhere, and anytime.
  • the advent of smartphones that can send and receive data and access the Internet was a major step in realizing this potential.
  • New mobile phones have the power to access the Internet but they remain an ineffective Internet navigation tool. Because they have very small screens and limited keypads, user interfaces are limited to basic graphics and simple commands. These interface limitations coupled with a limited battery life make the mobile phone a clumsy browsing device. Also, because of airtime charges, staying online is more expensive than with a traditional Internet connection. In order to be effective people must know what they want and where to find it before go online.
  • the Internet has proven to be an unsurpassed medium for efficient ordering of information, goods and services.
  • traditional methods of finding information on the Internet demand both time and convenient interfaces.
  • Search engines require large displays to show results and keyboards to enter detailed queries.
  • Directly accessing a web site via a URL can be difficult without a full keyboard and once the site is found, navigation demands either a search engine or a full graphical interface to display a map or detailed index.
  • Patent US 5,764,910 describes a method for elimination of rekeying of full network resource locator.
  • a service provider stores information objects (e.g., hypertext pages) on one or more host computers, and develops compressed, compact resource locators for the information objects. The service provider transmits them to users in response to user requests, such as in DTMF format.
  • a compatible telephone/terminal device at the user's site e.g., a computer or a smartphone
  • the user can request the specified information objects by transmitting the resource locator it received from the service provider.
  • the host computer uses the resource locator it receives from the user to retrieve the requested information.
  • this and similar systems do not allow for general use or publications of these codes since the URL compression codes are limited to certain computer systems.
  • the machine-readable code such as a two dimensional bar code symbol, comprises a file location pointer.
  • the file location pointer may be in the form of a uniform resource locator (URL) .
  • the source data is encoded and printed on an intelligent document, and then distributed by the vendor to end-users. An end user then scans the code via appropriate code scanning (e.g. bar code scanning) equipment, decodes the raw decoded data, and the file location information is then used to access the appropriate file.
  • code scanning e.g. bar code scanning
  • the user computer assembles a computer file transfer request word including the file location pointer and transmits the request word to a target server computer over a computer network system, which may be a wide area network such as the Internet.
  • a target server computer receives the computer file transfer request word and transmits a computer file to the user computer in response thereto.
  • the machine-readable symbol also has encoded therein an encryption key.
  • Sensitive user information such as a credit card number and user demographics data, is encrypted with this key, thus enabling on online electronic commercial transaction by utilizing the credit card number.
  • the machine-readable symbol may also have encoded therein 'an executable command to launch a software utility resident on the user computer, and the software utility is then automatically launched after the machine- readable symbol is transposed.
  • the machine-readable code includes a URL of a vendor's Web site that can be accessed through the Internet. Hence, it makes it possible to access fast the starting Web page but thereafter the user has to continue surfing or perform commercial transactions in traditional way.
  • the system requires a bar code reader that is connected to the user's computer. Hitherto mobile phones are neither equipped with a bar code reader nor they have any connector for the reader. Thus, the system is not applicable for today's mobile phones or smart phones.
  • dedicated software for decoding the barcode for decrypting data of the barcode is needed. Consequently, this system does not allow for general use or publications of these codes since the URL codes are limited to certain computer systems.
  • Preferred embodiments of the invention is to devise a system and method, which allow media publisher to easily create codes, each code representing a set of data and computer commands, store the codes with the attached sets in a computer server, and then communicate to their audience precisely what the code represents using their own media.
  • Another objective of the invention is to devise a system that allows a user of a mobile computing device or telephone to initiate transactions and access resources via public access networks using simple codes obtained from media.
  • Still another objective of the invention is to devise a system, which, in response to a code received from a user's terminal, will initiate and perform transactions, and/or direct the user's browser to the web resources that the code represents.
  • a code is used to initiate a transaction, the data/command set attached to the code will execute collecting all information needed for the transaction from the user.
  • a system comprising a code creation server that creates a code language in which each code is comprised of a unique identifier related to a set of data and computer commands, a decoding server interpreting a code sent by a user and performing the tasks defined by the code.
  • the identifier can be a single number, word, sound, alphanumeric code, or other identifier.
  • the code language is stored in a relational type database and is accessible by the decoding server that can receive these codes from a user.
  • the decoding server Once the decoding server receives a code from a user, it will first translate the code into a set of computer commands by searching the relational type database and then initiate the transactions and/or direct the user's browser to the web resources that the code represents.
  • the decoding server also communicates with providers of goods, data, services, securities, etc, to effectuate fulfilment of orders and requests. This is done, primarily by sending commands and data to computer servers capable of directing the requested resources or products to the end user.
  • the decoding server is also capable of making a record of each Use of a code and storing such information in a computer database.
  • a system embodying the present invention has many advantages : advertisers can synchronize their advertisements with commercial sales of products via the Internet; media publishers can receive direct and immediate feedback about the popularity an effectiveness of editorial content and advertising; users of a mobile computing device can direct an
  • Internet browser program to a specific computer network resource or Internet resource by transmitting a single number code to a computer server, consumers can transmit their personal information quickly and efficiently to complete transactions for goods, services, securities, or data, or to subscribe to services, publications, etc.; and providers of goods, services, and data, can effectively receive and fulfill orders from the public.
  • FIG. 1 is a simple presentation of the an system embodying the invention
  • FIG. 2 depicts messages exchanged in the system
  • FIG. 3 shows possible elements of the system
  • FIG. 4 is another schematic depiction of the elements of the system
  • FIG. 5 illustrates creating the code language
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic depiction of an example of transactions
  • FIG. 7A is a graphic description of the codes used in the system.
  • FIG. 7B is a graphic description of the communications used to complete transactions.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates simplified operation of the invented system.
  • the system is applicable to marketers, retailers, advertisers, media firms, publishers of magazines and newspapers, and other print or digital media who will allow their users and readers to directly access information to what is offered. Said instances are hereafter called code publishers .
  • a code publisher creates codes that can be a number, word, sound, alphanumeric code, etc.; The code publisher attaches to each code a task description of what the code should mean when it is used. In some cases the description may include a certain URL (in the case of codes used for web navigation) , or a basic description of a particular transaction and the method used to process this transaction.
  • code publisher equipment 100 usually a computer, sends the code list with the attached descriptions through the public access network to code creation and processing system 101, step 1.
  • the public access network may be any computer net- work, preferably the Internet.
  • code creation and processing system 101 will convert each of the descriptions into computer commands capable of initiating and performing the tasks, that are necessary for fulfilling the tasks given in the description of the code, using existing computer transaction and navigation methods. Then system 101 associates these commands with a code number, word or other unique identifier chosen by the publisher. These commands and data will be readable by another computer server programmed to manage and perform the type of transactions described by the code publishers.
  • the codes Once the codes are converted they and the corresponding set of commands are stored in a database. Once publishers have created the codes they will publish these codes in print or other medium, step 2, in a way that tells the reader how the code is to be used, what transaction it will initiate, and/or what Internet resource is will access when given to a certain computer server. Hence, the codes will act as a language, used by outside users, to remotely command system 101 to initiate and perform particular transactions .
  • User equipment 102 may be a mobile computing device, mobile phone, smart phone or any equipment enabling access to the public access network.
  • the code is routed to code creation and processing system 101.
  • the system retrieves from the database the set of commands and data corresponding the code and then perform various tasks according the description of the code.
  • the tasks may include sending a plurality of requests to and receiving answers from services 103 and information sources 104, step 4.
  • the code creation and processing system 101 will send the result to user equipment 102, step 5.
  • the code creation and processing system performs complicated tasks and sends the results to the user. This makes it possible to use very simple user equipment, a mobile phone or a smart phone, for example.
  • FIG. 2 depicts messages exchanged in the system.
  • the core of the invention is code creation and processing system 101 comprising code creation server 201, decoding server 203 and database 202. These elements create, store, manage, and interpret the code language and then deliver transaction information to those systems or parties responsible for completing the transaction.
  • Code publishers 301, users U, and servers of service/content providers 400 communicate with code creation and processing system 101 via a public access network that can be the Internet, a computer network, PSTN, ISDN, mobile telecommunications network, etc.
  • Code creation server 201 forms the code language itself. This server performs the data organizing, and storage operations that create the code language and then store the codes in computer database 202.
  • the code creation server communicates with code publisher 301 via the public access network through which the code publisher send codes and descriptions of tasks attached with the codes. Alternatively, the code publisher can send the descriptions only wherein the code creation server creates the codes and sends the list of codes to the code publisher
  • the description may include: the format of the computer commands used by a remote transaction server or for an off-line fulfilment service which may or may not be associated with the code publisher, a list of the information necessary needed to complete a particular transaction, price information, the email address or email address or URL of the ultimate destination of the transaction information, etc.
  • the code creation server runs a program that converts these descriptions into computer commands and/or data. Then, the code creation server associates a particular token with these command/data elements or for each transaction described by the code publisher or with the URL given by the code publisher in the case of navigational codes.
  • the exact format of the code is either chosen by the code publisher within guidelines set by the code creation server software or, alternatively, determined by the code creation server 201 itself.
  • the code creation and processing system also includes relational database 202 into which the code creation server will assemble each code for entry.
  • Decoding server 203 is able to communicate both with user 101 and remote servers 400 of publishers and service/content providers. It receives a code sent by user 101, recognizes the code, accesses the computer commands and data by searching relational database 202 for the data/command set associated with that code. Once decoding server 203 has identified the code, it will then gather the information necessary for completion of the action the code was created to implement. In the case of codes that are used for navigational purposes, the decoding server will simply direct the web browser of the user to the URL associated with the code. In the case of transaction codes, the decoding server will determine the data that must be gathered from the user and communicate with the user to gather this data.
  • Decoding server 203 may do this by sending queries to user U or, if the data can be obtained by accessing a database where the user's personal information is on file, the decoding server may ask the user for a ID number for such a database. Alternatively, the decoding server may ask the user to send personal information in the form of a personal information file stored in the user's smart phone or computer.
  • the code publisher After the code publisher has chosen the codes and the code creation server has run the software for translating the codes into a set of commands and data, the code publisher will publish the codes in print or other media.
  • the code publisher When a user will make a commercial transaction, purchase of a product, for example, the user chooses a code attached just to this transaction and sends transaction and sends the code to decoding server 203.
  • the server makes a database inquiry and retrieves from database 203 command and data corresponding the code. After that decoding server 203 carries out all the tasks needed for completing transaction. Finally, the server sends the result to the user.
  • the code' language enables users, using devices designed to communicate data to a computer server, to initiate a large universe of transactions and access a large universe of data using a single method.
  • the code language allows users to extend invitations to perform a wide universe of transactions, and offer freely accessible digital information to the public using a common code language .
  • FIG. 3 is another diagram of the elements of the system relation to each other, connected by telecommunications connections.
  • the system here depicted allows publishers of defined codes to distribute these codes to remote users via print or other media. They inform, by description or by context, the audience whether the code will be used to perform a commercial transaction, request information, order a subscription, perform an Internet navigation, or perform another type of transactions involving products, money, resources, information, etc.
  • code creation server 201 has interface 302 towards code publishers 301.
  • the code publishers P and code creation server 201 communicate through this interface.
  • Code publishers may include publishers and broadcasters of media (newspapers, magazines, fliers, brochures, books, billboards) as well as those who wish to allow users to access goods, web resources, information, and services described or depicted in their publications.
  • This interface may be programmed in HTML, Java or other scripting language.
  • Interface 302 may take several forms. The most common is expected to be a web-based interface that will present publishers with all the functions of the code creation server via the Internet.
  • code publishers may also communicate with code creation server 201 by server 201 by sending database files with code information in a format readable by code creation server 201.
  • the code publishers first create codes via communication with the code creation server 201 through publisher interface 302. Once a code has been created code publishers will publish or broadcast the codes in a way that reveals the code's use to a designated audience. In some instances the mere presence of a code will make its use self-explanatory.
  • Code publisher 301 designates a unique token such as a number, to correspond with information they provide about what the code should mean when it is used. This information may include: the format of the computer commands used by remote transaction server 402 or for a offline fulfilment service which may or may not be associated with the code publisher, a list of the information necessary needed to complete a particular transaction, price information, the email address or URL of the ultimate destination of the transaction information, etc.
  • Code creation server 201 forms the code language itself. It is a computer server, which performs the data organizing, and storage operations that create the code language and then store the codes in database 202. Code creation server 201 will run a program that will convert the descriptions attached to the tokens into a set of computer commands and/or data 42 that will be readable by decoding server 203.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates how the code creation server associates a particular token 41 with the command/data elements or for each transaction described by the code publishers or with the URL given by the code publisher in the case of navigational codes.
  • the exact format of the code will either be determined by the code creation server itself or chosen by the code publishers within guidelines set by the code creation server software.
  • the code creation server assembles each code for entry into relational database, whereupon the codes are then stored into the relational database, in one location as shown in FIG. 3 or more locations on a computer network.
  • any set of data and commands can be retrieved from the database by using the token as a pointer index.
  • This database is formed in a standard way that will allow the decoding server to easily search tokens and access transaction information.
  • the code publishers may form relationships with providers of goods and services to coordinate the processing of transactions. In other cases, the publishers themselves will fulfill the transactions initiated when a user uses a code they publish.
  • the code publisher is able, via the code creation server 201 to update and manage the actions that are performed by decoding server 203 when their codes are used, as well as designate the destination to which the decoding server sends the final transaction information.
  • the codes created by the code publishers will be synchronized with some means of completing the transactions and web navigations the codes were designed to effectuate.
  • An order and navigation fulfilment system depicted as D in FIG. 3, is comprised of those elements that deal with the final processing of orders placed using the system and the final delivery of products, information, services and/or Internet content to the users. Referring again back to FIG. 3 the code creation and processing system from a user's point of view will be explained in detail.
  • the system of user devices and interfaces is comprised of those remote users who utilize the system via a interface device.
  • Remote Users U are those who use the codes to initiate transactions or web navigations.
  • Remote users who read or hear the codes in media along with their descriptions, may transmit this code via a smartphone or computer, and in some cases, via a normal telephone.
  • a "smartphone" means an enhanced telephone device that possesses some capabilities customarily associated with personal computers, such as a modem to permit data communications to occur over a telephone line or via a radio frequency.
  • Smartphones include personal computing devices capable of wireless data communication such as those operated by the PalmO) operating system, Windows CE or other PDA device. Individual codes may be stored in these devices using an auto-dial feature of a phone or other such method.
  • Users U communicate with the code creation and processing system via user interface 102. Communication methods will now explained in more detail. Users may transmit a code through user interface 102 to decoding server 203.
  • the user interface differs depending on what method is Used to submit the code. All codes may be submitted through a web page interface, created in a usual manner, made accessible to smartphones using a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) or other method.
  • WAP Wireless Application Protocol
  • the web interface allows the users to communicate with the decoding server to provide any and all additional information necessary to complete a particular transaction or to be directed to the web sites of remote transaction servers 402, 403 which are able to receive this information.
  • the users access this web page by directing a web-browsing program to the web resource 401 associated with it.
  • Another method of transmitting codes to decoding server 203 would be to establish a direct modem connection.
  • a user who has a simple interface program on the computer or smartphone is able to dial a toll free or other phone number with their modem devices and communicate directly to the transaction server.
  • the interface program allows for the reception and transmission of transaction information and communication with transaction servers through common text and graphical display.
  • a third method for users to communicate with the decoding server would be to make a telephone call to an automatic answering program connected to the decoding server.
  • the user would be able to submit the code using a touch-tone telephone and make responses to information requests in the same manner. This method would be acceptable for those codes that represent transactions where a display is unnecessary.
  • the automatic telephone-answering program would be similar to those available through prior art and allow for query and reception of information through touch- tones or voice commands.
  • the interface device of the decoding server used to receive the codes may be equipped with means for identifying the user and/or gathering relevant transaction information by means of certificates, cookies, or other common methods of automatically determining the origin of a communication on a computer network.
  • the communication is a direct telephone connection this may be done using a DNIS (Dialled Number Identification Service) and/or an ANI (Automatic Number Information) service.
  • DNIS Dialled Number Identification Service
  • ANI Automatic Number Information
  • the code may be sent to the decoding server via a short text message using the Short Message System (SMS, which is currently available on many mobile phones.
  • SMS Short Message System
  • codes are received via user interface 102 they are processed according to the directions laid out in when they were created.
  • the code creation and processing system is comprised of the elements that create, store, manage, and interpret the code language and then deliver transaction information to those systems or parties responsible for completing the transaction.
  • the elements of this system are represented in FIG. 3 as separate, they may be combined onto one computer server or a set of computers servers locally connected. Here they are depicted as nodes of a computer network.
  • decoding server 203 This computer server recognizes the code being sent by a User, access the computer commands and data by searching code database 202 for the data/command set associated with that code. Once decoding server 203 has identified the code, it will then gather the information necessary for completion of the action the code was created to implement. In the case of codes that are used for navigational purposes, the decoding server simply directs the web browser of the user to the URL associated with the code. In the case of transaction codes, the decoding server determines the data that must be gathered from the user and communicate with the user to gather this data. The decoding server may do this by sending queries to the user or, if the data can be obtained by accessing a database where the user's personal information is on file, the decoding server may ask the user for an ID number for such a database.
  • the decoding server may ask the user to send personal information in the form of a personal information file stored in the user's smartphone or computer.
  • the data/command set associated with a code may: direct the decoding server to access and reveal pricing information found at a separate URL, provide payment options such as electronic cash, credit card, or direct bank transfer and/or provide delivery options associated with a particular transaction server or fulfilment service.
  • Decoding server 203 is programmed to compile the user information in the format of the destination server associated with the code such as comma delimited, fixed length, and DBF. After compiling the user specific inspecific information in a new data/command set the server will add an identifying number and send the completed data/command set to the defined destination.
  • the decoding server also saves the new individual transaction code and data/command set in relational database 204 known as the transaction database 204. This database is stored in a conventional method and contain information such as which code was used to initiate a transaction, how many times each code' has been used, the demographics of users, etc. The records will also be used to track each transaction for users.
  • the code When the code is designed to facilitate web navigation, it contains data/commands that tells decoding server 203 to direct the user's web browser to the URL of a specified web resource (depicted as Web Sites 401 in FIG. 3) .
  • a specified web resource (depicted as Web Sites 401 in FIG. 3) .
  • One possible destination for code communications is local transaction server 402.
  • Such a computer server would be located on the same local computer network as the decoding server which will deliver digital information to email addresses or initiate orders for information and products via some other method.
  • the local transaction server may access information from other parts of the World Wide Web or from local computer databases.
  • the data/command set attached to a code may also direct the decoding server to send communications to remote transaction servers 403 programmed to process orders for goods and services and deliver digital information. These servers may be located at remote nodes on a computer network.
  • the remote transaction servers may be e-commerce Internet sites such as Amazon.com or WalMart.com, or any other computer server programmed to take and process orders for goods, services and/or digital information.
  • the data/command set attached to a code may also direct the decoding server to send communications to off-line retailers, catalogers, warehouses, or fulfilment services (depicted as fulfilment services 404 in FIG. 3) which do not have a computer server which automates order processing. In these cases the decoding server will send a e-mail, fax, or send a notice for a letter to be sent to the specified destination in a format convenient for the receiver.
  • FIG. 5 depicts the elements of the system represented in FIG. 1 as located on a worldwide computer network (the Internet) where the Internet is depicted as ellipse E. Users' connections to the decoding server via direct telephone connection or via SMS (short message service) server is shown as label B. Decoding server connections to transaction servers and fulfilment services via direct telephone connection or via SMS (short message service) server or fax machine is shown as F.
  • (I) represents network nodes of Internet service providers and connection servers.
  • Figure 5 demonstrates that the system of the present invention can operate via the Internet with multiple elements, at multiple locations, as well as via other communication methods.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates the dynamics involved when a client communicates a code to decoding server 203 to perform a transaction with transaction server 402 located on the Internet (such as an e-commerce web site) .
  • the following is a description of numbered actions depicted in FIG. 4. These actions depict a typical use of a code by a user:
  • a user sends a code published in some media source to decoding server 203 via the user interface, phase 1.
  • the decoding server retrieves the data/command set associated with the code from code database, phase 2.
  • the decoding server then requests the information required to complete transaction from the user, phase 3.
  • the user provides information by sending the decoding server an ID code for a personal profile database, a personal information file, and/or answers to queries from the decoding server, phase 4. Then the decoding server formats the transaction data provided by the code's data/command set and by the user into a data/command communication readable by the destination server (in this case remote transaction server 402 such as Amazon.com) .
  • the destination server in this case remote transaction server 402 such as Amazon.com
  • the decoding server then sends completed communication to a remote transaction server with a code to identify the particular transaction, phase 6.
  • the decoding server saves a record of the transaction including the code and the information retrieved from the user in the transaction database under an identifying code number, phase 7.
  • Transaction server 402 sends record of the completion of the transaction or any other transaction related information to the transaction database 204 that is saved under the identifying code for that transaction, phase 8.
  • the destination of the communication sent by the decoding server in phase 6 may be a local transaction server, a Web site, an offline fulfilment service, or other party capable of completing the transaction for which the code was designed.
  • FIG. 7A and 7B explain how the elements of the data command set associated with a particular token of a code are used by the decoding server and the destination transaction server in the execution of a particular transaction.
  • FIG. 7A represents a schematic depiction of codes created by the code creation server.
  • This diagram shows how a code consists of a token (X) which can be published or broadcasted to users in a way that explains its use.
  • This token is related to a digital set of data and commands which are used to initiate any transaction of a particular type (such as the purchase of particular book from an online store such as Amazon.com) when the set is read by the decoding server.
  • Part 510 of this set will be directed at the destination transaction server, and part 520 will be directed at the decoding server.
  • Data 511 and computer commands 512 for the destination transaction server needed for each transaction and those commands generic to every transaction of that particular sort will be included in every communication sent by the DCS when a Client uses a particular code.
  • the data/command set 520 also contains a set 521 of the data and a set 522 of computer commands that will direct the decoding server to gather all other needed information from the user or some other source (such as a user profile database, or a variable price located at a URL) in order to complete that sort of transaction, and how to compile the information for the specified destination.
  • a user profile database such as a user profile database, or a variable price located at a URL
  • FIG. 7B is a schematic depiction of a communication created by the decoding server and sent to the destination transaction server.
  • the present invention allows creators of both print and digital media to create a code language that allows users to efficiently signal, using a mobile computing device or telephone, exactly what they want to see, buy, send or have delivered.
  • the code language allows users to "speak" directly to computer servers, using as little as a single number or word, and initiate transactions for goods, securities and services, respond to surveys, order information, access a Internet resource, etc.
  • Advertisers and publishers are able to utilize the invention to synchronize their printed content with specific points of sale and resources on the Internet.
  • the code language because it provides as single method of initiating nearly any type of transaction, can be published universally and utilized by any audience with a device capable of accessing Internet resources.

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (101) allowing users (U) of PCs, mobile computing devices, smartphones, and telephones to communicate with a single code which transactions they want to initiate or which resource they wish to access. The codes are created by media publishers (P), via a code creation server (201), which then communicate to their audience precisely what the code represents using their own media. The codes are comprised of a unique identifier related to a set of data and computer commands to be used and performed by a decoding computer (203), which interpret the code. The code language is stored in a relational type database (202). Once the decoding server receives a code, it will initiate the transactions and/or direct the user's browser to the web resources that the code represents. When a code is used to initiate a transaction, the decoding server collects all information needed for the transaction from the user. The decoding server also communicates with providers of goods, data, services, securities, etc., to effectuate fulfilment of orders and requests. This is done, primarily by sending commands and data to computer servers (401, 402, 403, 404) capable of directing the requested resources or products to the end user (Fig. 3).

Description

PROVISION OF SIMPLE ACCESS TO SERVICES
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a method and a system of providing access to various types of resources offered by service providers and content providers via a public access network. Especially, the invention relates to provision for users with access to contents offered by media publishers via a computer network, such as the Internet, wherein readable codes are printed on a document, the document is distributed to end users who use information contained within the code for initiating a transaction with the public access network.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The rise of new methods of communication such as the Internet and new tools for communication such as mobile phones has presented many challenges and opportunities to both those that demand goods, services, and information and those that supply them. In many cases these new methods and tools cannot be utilized to their full potential due to the current lack of effective methods and systems.
Mobile phones have great potential to give the power to order goods, information and services to people anywhere, and anytime. The advent of smartphones that can send and receive data and access the Internet was a major step in realizing this potential. However there are several major obstacles New mobile phones have the power to access the Internet but they remain an ineffective Internet navigation tool. Because they have very small screens and limited keypads, user interfaces are limited to basic graphics and simple commands. These interface limitations coupled with a limited battery life make the mobile phone a clumsy browsing device. Also, because of airtime charges, staying online is more expensive than with a traditional Internet connection. In order to be effective people must know what they want and where to find it before go online.
The Internet has proven to be an unsurpassed medium for efficient ordering of information, goods and services. However, traditional methods of finding information on the Internet demand both time and convenient interfaces. Search engines require large displays to show results and keyboards to enter detailed queries. Directly accessing a web site via a URL (Universal Resource Locator) can be difficult without a full keyboard and once the site is found, navigation demands either a search engine or a full graphical interface to display a map or detailed index.
Additionally, because the screens of mobile phones are so small there is no room for the media that provides financial value to most web content, advertising. Because commercial advertising funds much of current web content, many services may not be available at low cost on mobile phones Using prior art systems. Thus, with current technology, finding a resource on a computer network via a mobile phone or initiating a particular transaction for goods or services can be a difficult and inefficient process .
In general, the only way to access web based resource is by typing in a full URL into a web browser. However, the method of accessing services and contents by typing lengthy URLs has some drawbacks .
A drawback is clearly seen in issues that face the publishing world. There is currently no effective system for magazines, newspapers and other print media that allows their readers to directly access information related to what is printed. Thus, when print advertisers and publishers wish to offer additional information and services via the Internet they can only do so by getting users to enter a lengthy URL or ask them to search through a web site accessible with a simple URL in order to find the relevant information and services. Such methods are unfeasible for a reader in motion. Additionally URLs can be difficult to change and adjust to fit into dynamic marketing campaigns or information distribution schemes. Older methods of offering information and services are even more costly and ineffective. Post card response can be difficult to process and track and phone response requires expensive call centers and toll free numbers.
Another problem in the field of publishing is that there is currently no efficient and effective system for publishers to gain accurate and direct feedback concerning who is interested in the content they publish. Currently large, expensive surveys of buying patterns and content preferences are the predominant means of finding out if print ads are effective or if printed content is popular. Smaller publications have the most difficulty since their readership is small and surveys are rarely cost effective. Although there are some measurement systems for other media such as television and radio, there is a need in these areas as well for a inexpensive way to gauge effectiveness and consumer interest in media and advertising.
There are systems available, which allow individual users to create compressed URLs to direct their web-browsers to a resource using a shorter number or word in place of the original URL.
Patent US 5,764,910 describes a method for elimination of rekeying of full network resource locator. A service provider stores information objects (e.g., hypertext pages) on one or more host computers, and develops compressed, compact resource locators for the information objects. The service provider transmits them to users in response to user requests, such as in DTMF format. A compatible telephone/terminal device at the user's site (e.g., a computer or a smartphone) receives and stores the compressed resource locator. Subsequently, during a data communication session with the host computer the user can request the specified information objects by transmitting the resource locator it received from the service provider. The host computer uses the resource locator it receives from the user to retrieve the requested information. However, this and similar systems do not allow for general use or publications of these codes since the URL compression codes are limited to certain computer systems.
Thus, it is clear that there is a great need for a system that will allow users of mobile computing devices and telephones to initiate and conduct transactions efficiently and to thereby provide feedback to advertisers and publishers regarding the effectiveness of their efforts. Advertisers and users of the Internet demand a system that will allow them to use a single method of initiating a transaction for any transaction they wish through a single point of sale interface. Further, there is a need for a system that will allow media publishers to synchronize their offline published content with resources available on public access networks such as the Internet.
A suggestion to satisfy the above-mentioned need is proposed in patent US 5,933,829. It describes a system that utilizes a machine-readable code printed on a document. The machine-readable code, such as a two dimensional bar code symbol, comprises a file location pointer. When utilizing the Internet, the file location pointer may be in the form of a uniform resource locator (URL) . The source data is encoded and printed on an intelligent document, and then distributed by the vendor to end-users. An end user then scans the code via appropriate code scanning (e.g. bar code scanning) equipment, decodes the raw decoded data, and the file location information is then used to access the appropriate file. The user computer assembles a computer file transfer request word including the file location pointer and transmits the request word to a target server computer over a computer network system, which may be a wide area network such as the Internet. In any type of networked environment, the target server computer receives the computer file transfer request word and transmits a computer file to the user computer in response thereto.
Additionally, the machine-readable symbol also has encoded therein an encryption key. Sensitive user information, such as a credit card number and user demographics data, is encrypted with this key, thus enabling on online electronic commercial transaction by utilizing the credit card number.
Moreover, the machine-readable symbol may also have encoded therein 'an executable command to launch a software utility resident on the user computer, and the software utility is then automatically launched after the machine- readable symbol is transposed.
Although the system described in patent US 5,933,829 allows people to use printed media to connect to the Internet, it has, however, some drawbacks. Firstly, the machine-readable code includes a URL of a vendor's Web site that can be accessed through the Internet. Hence, it makes it possible to access fast the starting Web page but thereafter the user has to continue surfing or perform commercial transactions in traditional way. Secondly, the system requires a bar code reader that is connected to the user's computer. Hitherto mobile phones are neither equipped with a bar code reader nor they have any connector for the reader. Thus, the system is not applicable for today's mobile phones or smart phones. Thirdly, dedicated software for decoding the barcode for decrypting data of the barcode is needed. Consequently, this system does not allow for general use or publications of these codes since the URL codes are limited to certain computer systems.
In consequence, there is a need for an effective system that effectuates and facilitates transactions and web navigations via mobile telephones and computing devices. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Preferred embodiments of the invention is to devise a system and method, which allow media publisher to easily create codes, each code representing a set of data and computer commands, store the codes with the attached sets in a computer server, and then communicate to their audience precisely what the code represents using their own media.
Another objective of the invention is to devise a system that allows a user of a mobile computing device or telephone to initiate transactions and access resources via public access networks using simple codes obtained from media.
Still another objective of the invention is to devise a system, which, in response to a code received from a user's terminal, will initiate and perform transactions, and/or direct the user's browser to the web resources that the code represents. When a code is used to initiate a transaction, the data/command set attached to the code will execute collecting all information needed for the transaction from the user.
The foregoing and other objectives are achieved by a system comprising a code creation server that creates a code language in which each code is comprised of a unique identifier related to a set of data and computer commands, a decoding server interpreting a code sent by a user and performing the tasks defined by the code. The identifier can be a single number, word, sound, alphanumeric code, or other identifier. With the code language a whole set of information and instructions relevant to a particular transaction or request can be communicated to a decoding server by transmitting a single code such as a number, word, sound, alphanumeric code, etc.;
The code language is stored in a relational type database and is accessible by the decoding server that can receive these codes from a user. Once the decoding server receives a code from a user, it will first translate the code into a set of computer commands by searching the relational type database and then initiate the transactions and/or direct the user's browser to the web resources that the code represents. The decoding server also communicates with providers of goods, data, services, securities, etc, to effectuate fulfilment of orders and requests. This is done, primarily by sending commands and data to computer servers capable of directing the requested resources or products to the end user. The decoding server is also capable of making a record of each Use of a code and storing such information in a computer database.
A system embodying the present invention has many advantages : advertisers can synchronize their advertisements with commercial sales of products via the Internet; media publishers can receive direct and immediate feedback about the popularity an effectiveness of editorial content and advertising; users of a mobile computing device can direct an
Internet browser program to a specific computer network resource or Internet resource by transmitting a single number code to a computer server, consumers can transmit their personal information quickly and efficiently to complete transactions for goods, services, securities, or data, or to subscribe to services, publications, etc.; and providers of goods, services, and data, can effectively receive and fulfill orders from the public.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanied drawings in which FIG. 1 is a simple presentation of the an system embodying the invention;
FIG. 2 depicts messages exchanged in the system; FIG. 3 shows possible elements of the system; FIG. 4 is another schematic depiction of the elements of the system;
FIG. 5 illustrates creating the code language; FIG. 6 is a schematic depiction of an example of transactions ; FIG. 7A is a graphic description of the codes used in the system; and
FIG. 7B is a graphic description of the communications used to complete transactions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 illustrates simplified operation of the invented system. The system is applicable to marketers, retailers, advertisers, media firms, publishers of magazines and newspapers, and other print or digital media who will allow their users and readers to directly access information to what is offered. Said instances are hereafter called code publishers .
A code publisher creates codes that can be a number, word, sound, alphanumeric code, etc.; The code publisher attaches to each code a task description of what the code should mean when it is used. In some cases the description may include a certain URL (in the case of codes used for web navigation) , or a basic description of a particular transaction and the method used to process this transaction. Once the code or a list of codes has been created, code publisher equipment 100, usually a computer, sends the code list with the attached descriptions through the public access network to code creation and processing system 101, step 1. The public access network may be any computer net- work, preferably the Internet. Having received the list, code creation and processing system 101 will convert each of the descriptions into computer commands capable of initiating and performing the tasks, that are necessary for fulfilling the tasks given in the description of the code, using existing computer transaction and navigation methods. Then system 101 associates these commands with a code number, word or other unique identifier chosen by the publisher. These commands and data will be readable by another computer server programmed to manage and perform the type of transactions described by the code publishers.
Once the codes are converted they and the corresponding set of commands are stored in a database. Once publishers have created the codes they will publish these codes in print or other medium, step 2, in a way that tells the reader how the code is to be used, what transaction it will initiate, and/or what Internet resource is will access when given to a certain computer server. Hence, the codes will act as a language, used by outside users, to remotely command system 101 to initiate and perform particular transactions .
Now, a user can choose a service offered by code publishers simply by sending the code corresponding to the chosen service to the public access network, step 3. User equipment 102 may be a mobile computing device, mobile phone, smart phone or any equipment enabling access to the public access network.
The code is routed to code creation and processing system 101. Upon receipt the code the system retrieves from the database the set of commands and data corresponding the code and then perform various tasks according the description of the code. The tasks may include sending a plurality of requests to and receiving answers from services 103 and information sources 104, step 4. After all the tasks corresponding the code have been performed, the code creation and processing system 101 will send the result to user equipment 102, step 5. Thus, in response to one simple code sent by a user the code creation and processing system performs complicated tasks and sends the results to the user. This makes it possible to use very simple user equipment, a mobile phone or a smart phone, for example.
FIG. 2 depicts messages exchanged in the system. The core of the invention is code creation and processing system 101 comprising code creation server 201, decoding server 203 and database 202. These elements create, store, manage, and interpret the code language and then deliver transaction information to those systems or parties responsible for completing the transaction. Code publishers 301, users U, and servers of service/content providers 400 communicate with code creation and processing system 101 via a public access network that can be the Internet, a computer network, PSTN, ISDN, mobile telecommunications network, etc.
Code creation server 201 forms the code language itself. This server performs the data organizing, and storage operations that create the code language and then store the codes in computer database 202. The code creation server communicates with code publisher 301 via the public access network through which the code publisher send codes and descriptions of tasks attached with the codes. Alternatively, the code publisher can send the descriptions only wherein the code creation server creates the codes and sends the list of codes to the code publisher The description may include: the format of the computer commands used by a remote transaction server or for an off-line fulfilment service which may or may not be associated with the code publisher, a list of the information necessary needed to complete a particular transaction, price information, the email address or email address or URL of the ultimate destination of the transaction information, etc. The code creation server runs a program that converts these descriptions into computer commands and/or data. Then, the code creation server associates a particular token with these command/data elements or for each transaction described by the code publisher or with the URL given by the code publisher in the case of navigational codes. The exact format of the code is either chosen by the code publisher within guidelines set by the code creation server software or, alternatively, determined by the code creation server 201 itself.
The code creation and processing system also includes relational database 202 into which the code creation server will assemble each code for entry.
Decoding server 203 is able to communicate both with user 101 and remote servers 400 of publishers and service/content providers. It receives a code sent by user 101, recognizes the code, accesses the computer commands and data by searching relational database 202 for the data/command set associated with that code. Once decoding server 203 has identified the code, it will then gather the information necessary for completion of the action the code was created to implement. In the case of codes that are used for navigational purposes, the decoding server will simply direct the web browser of the user to the URL associated with the code. In the case of transaction codes, the decoding server will determine the data that must be gathered from the user and communicate with the user to gather this data. Decoding server 203 may do this by sending queries to user U or, if the data can be obtained by accessing a database where the user's personal information is on file, the decoding server may ask the user for a ID number for such a database. Alternatively, the decoding server may ask the user to send personal information in the form of a personal information file stored in the user's smart phone or computer.
Referring back to FIG. 2 operation of the system will be shortly explained. After the code publisher has chosen the codes and the code creation server has run the software for translating the codes into a set of commands and data, the code publisher will publish the codes in print or other media. When a user will make a commercial transaction, purchase of a product, for example, the user chooses a code attached just to this transaction and sends transaction and sends the code to decoding server 203. In response to reception of the code, the server makes a database inquiry and retrieves from database 203 command and data corresponding the code. After that decoding server 203 carries out all the tasks needed for completing transaction. Finally, the server sends the result to the user. The code' language enables users, using devices designed to communicate data to a computer server, to initiate a large universe of transactions and access a large universe of data using a single method. Likewise, the code language allows users to extend invitations to perform a wide universe of transactions, and offer freely accessible digital information to the public using a common code language .
FIG. 3 is another diagram of the elements of the system relation to each other, connected by telecommunications connections. The system here depicted allows publishers of defined codes to distribute these codes to remote users via print or other media. They inform, by description or by context, the audience whether the code will be used to perform a commercial transaction, request information, order a subscription, perform an Internet navigation, or perform another type of transactions involving products, money, resources, information, etc.
With reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 3 the way of creating codes will be explained in detail. The code creation and processing system, more accurately code creation server 201 has interface 302 towards code publishers 301. The code publishers P and code creation server 201 communicate through this interface. Code publishers may include publishers and broadcasters of media (newspapers, magazines, fliers, brochures, books, billboards) as well as those who wish to allow users to access goods, web resources, information, and services described or depicted in their publications. This interface may be programmed in HTML, Java or other scripting language. Interface 302 may take several forms. The most common is expected to be a web-based interface that will present publishers with all the functions of the code creation server via the Internet. In cases of a code publisher who publishes or broadcasts large numbers of codes, a customized interface may be developed to meet specific needs in a more efficient manner. The code publishers may also communicate with code creation server 201 by server 201 by sending database files with code information in a format readable by code creation server 201.
The code publishers first create codes via communication with the code creation server 201 through publisher interface 302. Once a code has been created code publishers will publish or broadcast the codes in a way that reveals the code's use to a designated audience. In some instances the mere presence of a code will make its use self-explanatory. Code publisher 301 designates a unique token such as a number, to correspond with information they provide about what the code should mean when it is used. This information may include: the format of the computer commands used by remote transaction server 402 or for a offline fulfilment service which may or may not be associated with the code publisher, a list of the information necessary needed to complete a particular transaction, price information, the email address or URL of the ultimate destination of the transaction information, etc. In other words, to each token is attached a description of the tasks. Code creation server 201 forms the code language itself. It is a computer server, which performs the data organizing, and storage operations that create the code language and then store the codes in database 202. Code creation server 201 will run a program that will convert the descriptions attached to the tokens into a set of computer commands and/or data 42 that will be readable by decoding server 203. FIG. 4 illustrates how the code creation server associates a particular token 41 with the command/data elements or for each transaction described by the code publishers or with the URL given by the code publisher in the case of navigational codes. The exact format of the code, whether it be a number, word, bar code, touch tone sequence, machine readable symbol etc., will either be determined by the code creation server itself or chosen by the code publishers within guidelines set by the code creation server software. The code creation server assembles each code for entry into relational database, whereupon the codes are then stored into the relational database, in one location as shown in FIG. 3 or more locations on a computer network. As a result, any set of data and commands can be retrieved from the database by using the token as a pointer index. This database is formed in a standard way that will allow the decoding server to easily search tokens and access transaction information.
In some cases, the code publishers may form relationships with providers of goods and services to coordinate the processing of transactions. In other cases, the publishers themselves will fulfill the transactions initiated when a user uses a code they publish.
Referring back to FIG. 3, the code publisher is able, via the code creation server 201 to update and manage the actions that are performed by decoding server 203 when their codes are used, as well as designate the destination to which the decoding server sends the final transaction information. The codes created by the code publishers will be synchronized with some means of completing the transactions and web navigations the codes were designed to effectuate. An order and navigation fulfilment system, depicted as D in FIG. 3, is comprised of those elements that deal with the final processing of orders placed using the system and the final delivery of products, information, services and/or Internet content to the users. Referring again back to FIG. 3 the code creation and processing system from a user's point of view will be explained in detail.
The system of user devices and interfaces, labelled A, is comprised of those remote users who utilize the system via a interface device. Remote Users U are those who use the codes to initiate transactions or web navigations. Remote users, who read or hear the codes in media along with their descriptions, may transmit this code via a smartphone or computer, and in some cases, via a normal telephone. Generally, a "smartphone" means an enhanced telephone device that possesses some capabilities customarily associated with personal computers, such as a modem to permit data communications to occur over a telephone line or via a radio frequency. Smartphones include personal computing devices capable of wireless data communication such as those operated by the PalmO) operating system, Windows CE or other PDA device. Individual codes may be stored in these devices using an auto-dial feature of a phone or other such method. Users U communicate with the code creation and processing system via user interface 102. Communication methods will now explained in more detail. Users may transmit a code through user interface 102 to decoding server 203. The user interface differs depending on what method is Used to submit the code. All codes may be submitted through a web page interface, created in a usual manner, made accessible to smartphones using a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) or other method. The web interface allows the users to communicate with the decoding server to provide any and all additional information necessary to complete a particular transaction or to be directed to the web sites of remote transaction servers 402, 403 which are able to receive this information. The users access this web page by directing a web-browsing program to the web resource 401 associated with it.
Another method of transmitting codes to decoding server 203 would be to establish a direct modem connection. A user who has a simple interface program on the computer or smartphone is able to dial a toll free or other phone number with their modem devices and communicate directly to the transaction server. The interface program allows for the reception and transmission of transaction information and communication with transaction servers through common text and graphical display.
A third method for users to communicate with the decoding server would be to make a telephone call to an automatic answering program connected to the decoding server. The user would be able to submit the code using a touch-tone telephone and make responses to information requests in the same manner. This method would be acceptable for those codes that represent transactions where a display is unnecessary. The automatic telephone-answering program would be similar to those available through prior art and allow for query and reception of information through touch- tones or voice commands.
The interface device of the decoding server used to receive the codes may be equipped with means for identifying the user and/or gathering relevant transaction information by means of certificates, cookies, or other common methods of automatically determining the origin of a communication on a computer network. When the communication is a direct telephone connection this may be done using a DNIS (Dialled Number Identification Service) and/or an ANI (Automatic Number Information) service.
In cases where the code represents a simple order, requiring no additional information, it may be sent to the decoding server via a short text message using the Short Message System (SMS, which is currently available on many mobile phones.
Once codes are received via user interface 102 they are processed according to the directions laid out in when they were created. The code creation and processing system is comprised of the elements that create, store, manage, and interpret the code language and then deliver transaction information to those systems or parties responsible for completing the transaction. Although the elements of this system are represented in FIG. 3 as separate, they may be combined onto one computer server or a set of computers servers locally connected. Here they are depicted as nodes of a computer network.
Users, through user interface 102 communicate with decoding server 203. This computer server recognizes the code being sent by a User, access the computer commands and data by searching code database 202 for the data/command set associated with that code. Once decoding server 203 has identified the code, it will then gather the information necessary for completion of the action the code was created to implement. In the case of codes that are used for navigational purposes, the decoding server simply directs the web browser of the user to the URL associated with the code. In the case of transaction codes, the decoding server determines the data that must be gathered from the user and communicate with the user to gather this data. The decoding server may do this by sending queries to the user or, if the data can be obtained by accessing a database where the user's personal information is on file, the decoding server may ask the user for an ID number for such a database.
Alternatively, the decoding server may ask the user to send personal information in the form of a personal information file stored in the user's smartphone or computer.
Depending on the particular transaction, the data/command set associated with a code may: direct the decoding server to access and reveal pricing information found at a separate URL, provide payment options such as electronic cash, credit card, or direct bank transfer and/or provide delivery options associated with a particular transaction server or fulfilment service. Decoding server 203 is programmed to compile the user information in the format of the destination server associated with the code such as comma delimited, fixed length, and DBF. After compiling the user specific inspecific information in a new data/command set the server will add an identifying number and send the completed data/command set to the defined destination. The decoding server also saves the new individual transaction code and data/command set in relational database 204 known as the transaction database 204. This database is stored in a conventional method and contain information such as which code was used to initiate a transaction, how many times each code' has been used, the demographics of users, etc. The records will also be used to track each transaction for users.
When the code is designed to facilitate web navigation, it contains data/commands that tells decoding server 203 to direct the user's web browser to the URL of a specified web resource (depicted as Web Sites 401 in FIG. 3) . One possible destination for code communications is local transaction server 402. Such a computer server would be located on the same local computer network as the decoding server which will deliver digital information to email addresses or initiate orders for information and products via some other method. The local transaction server may access information from other parts of the World Wide Web or from local computer databases. The data/command set attached to a code may also direct the decoding server to send communications to remote transaction servers 403 programmed to process orders for goods and services and deliver digital information. These servers may be located at remote nodes on a computer network. These servers may be operated either by code publishers, in affiliation with code publishers or the operator of the decoding server, or independently. The remote transaction servers may be e-commerce Internet sites such as Amazon.com or WalMart.com, or any other computer server programmed to take and process orders for goods, services and/or digital information. The data/command set attached to a code may also direct the decoding server to send communications to off-line retailers, catalogers, warehouses, or fulfilment services (depicted as fulfilment services 404 in FIG. 3) which do not have a computer server which automates order processing. In these cases the decoding server will send a e-mail, fax, or send a notice for a letter to be sent to the specified destination in a format convenient for the receiver.
FIG. 5 depicts the elements of the system represented in FIG. 1 as located on a worldwide computer network (the Internet) where the Internet is depicted as ellipse E. Users' connections to the decoding server via direct telephone connection or via SMS (short message service) server is shown as label B. Decoding server connections to transaction servers and fulfilment services via direct telephone connection or via SMS (short message service) server or fax machine is shown as F. In this figure, (I) represents network nodes of Internet service providers and connection servers. Figure 5 demonstrates that the system of the present invention can operate via the Internet with multiple elements, at multiple locations, as well as via other communication methods.
FIG. 6 illustrates the dynamics involved when a client communicates a code to decoding server 203 to perform a transaction with transaction server 402 located on the Internet (such as an e-commerce web site) . The following is a description of numbered actions depicted in FIG. 4. These actions depict a typical use of a code by a user:
A user sends a code published in some media source to decoding server 203 via the user interface, phase 1. The decoding server retrieves the data/command set associated with the code from code database, phase 2.
The decoding server then requests the information required to complete transaction from the user, phase 3.
The user provides information by sending the decoding server an ID code for a personal profile database, a personal information file, and/or answers to queries from the decoding server, phase 4. Then the decoding server formats the transaction data provided by the code's data/command set and by the user into a data/command communication readable by the destination server (in this case remote transaction server 402 such as Amazon.com) .
The decoding server then sends completed communication to a remote transaction server with a code to identify the particular transaction, phase 6.
The decoding server saves a record of the transaction including the code and the information retrieved from the user in the transaction database under an identifying code number, phase 7.
Transaction server 402 sends record of the completion of the transaction or any other transaction related information to the transaction database 204 that is saved under the identifying code for that transaction, phase 8.
This process is representative of a typical transaction initiated through the use of the code language. Depending on the code used, the destination of the communication sent by the decoding server in phase 6 may be a local transaction server, a Web site, an offline fulfilment service, or other party capable of completing the transaction for which the code was designed.
FIG. 7A and 7B explain how the elements of the data command set associated with a particular token of a code are used by the decoding server and the destination transaction server in the execution of a particular transaction.
FIG. 7A represents a schematic depiction of codes created by the code creation server. This diagram shows how a code consists of a token (X) which can be published or broadcasted to users in a way that explains its use. This token is related to a digital set of data and commands which are used to initiate any transaction of a particular type (such as the purchase of particular book from an online store such as Amazon.com) when the set is read by the decoding server. Part 510 of this set will be directed at the destination transaction server, and part 520 will be directed at the decoding server. Data 511 and computer commands 512 for the destination transaction server needed for each transaction and those commands generic to every transaction of that particular sort will be included in every communication sent by the DCS when a Client uses a particular code. The data/command set 520 also contains a set 521 of the data and a set 522 of computer commands that will direct the decoding server to gather all other needed information from the user or some other source (such as a user profile database, or a variable price located at a URL) in order to complete that sort of transaction, and how to compile the information for the specified destination.
FIG. 7B is a schematic depiction of a communication created by the decoding server and sent to the destination transaction server. Once the decoding server gathers all necessary information and determines the appropriate commands for the transaction server it compiles the variable transaction information in the form of a set 530 of data and commands and adds it to the fixed data and commands set 511,512 of the code. The decoding server decoding server then relates this compilation with identifying code X~ and then sends the complete, coded, data/command set to the transaction server specified in the fixed data set.
Although the foregoing discussion has been directed almost exclusively to accessing and exchanging information and performing transactions via the Internet, those of ordinary skill in the art will immediately understand that it applies equally well to other computer networks. Therefore the ensuing description of the invention should be considered as being applicable to the most general set of applications .
The present invention allows creators of both print and digital media to create a code language that allows users to efficiently signal, using a mobile computing device or telephone, exactly what they want to see, buy, send or have delivered. The code language allows users to "speak" directly to computer servers, using as little as a single number or word, and initiate transactions for goods, securities and services, respond to surveys, order information, access a Internet resource, etc. Advertisers and publishers are able to utilize the invention to synchronize their printed content with specific points of sale and resources on the Internet. The code language, because it provides as single method of initiating nearly any type of transaction, can be published universally and utilized by any audience with a device capable of accessing Internet resources.

Claims

1. A method of accessing information resources via a public access network, comprising the steps of: applying a code published or broadcast in print or other medium to a user's terminal device, sending the code from the user's terminal device over a telecommunications network to a remote server site; at the remote server site, using the code to retrieve information from an information source, characterized, at the remote server site, by the further steps of: retrieving from a relational type database a set of computer commands and data associated with the code, performing the set of the computer commands associated with the code, establishing a data communication session between the remote server site and at least one destination server as instructed in the set of computer commands and data, receiving information from said at least one destination server, and sending results of the communication sessions over the public access network to the user's
2. A method as in claim 1, characterized by the further steps of compiling user information in a new set of commands and data, and sending user information to at least one remote destination server.
3. A method as in claim 2, characterized by the further step of gathering user information by sending queries to the user's terminal device when the set of computer commands and data initiates transaction with said at least one remote destination server.
4. A method as in claim 2, characterized by the further step of gathering user information by accessing a database storing user's personal information when the set of computer commands and data initiates transaction with said at least one remote destination server.
5. A method as in claim 2, characterized by the further steps of storing the new set of commands and data with the attached new individual code in a database.
6. A method as in claim 1, characterized in that the data communication session comprises web navigation between the remote server site and at least one destination server, the addresses of the destination servers being included in the set of computer commands and data.
7. A method as in claim 1, characterized in that a description of the meaning of the code in a human language is attached to the code when published in print or other medium.
8. A method as in claim 1, characterized by the step of storing in a database, after establishing communication session between the remote server site and at least one destination server, information on which code was Used, how many times the code has been used and the demographics of the user.
9. A method of creating a code allowing a user, on receipt of the code delivered by a code publisher via print or other medium, to access in formation resources by sending the code from a terminal device over a public access network to a remote server site, characterised by the steps of: choosing a code, compiling a description of the actions the remote server site has to perform on receipt of the code from the terminal device, sending the code and the description of the actions to the remote server site, converting the description of the actions to a set of computer commands and data, storing the set of computer commands and data with the corresponding code in a relational database, wherein the set can be retrieved from the relational database by using the code as a pointer index.
10. A method as in claim 9, characterized in that the exact format of the code is determined by the remote server site .
11. A method as in claim 9, characterized in that the exact format of the code is chosen by the code publisher within guidelines set by the remote server site.
12. A method as in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the exact format of the code is selected from the group comprising numbers, words, bar codes, touch tone sequences, and machine readable symbols.
13. A method as in claim 9, characterized in that the set of computer commands and data includes commands initiating communication session with the user's terminal device for providing the remote server site with additional user information.
14. A method as in claim 9 or 13, characterized in that the set of computer commands and data initiates predetermined transactions with at least one destination server upon receipt of the corresponding code.
15. A method as in claim 9, characterized in that the description of the actions includes also an address to which at least a part of the results is transmitted.
16. A method as in claim 9, characterized in that the relational type database is updated by choosing a code exactly the same as an existing code, compiling a description of new actions, and sending the code and the description of the new actions to the remote server site, wherein the existing set of computer commands and data is replaced with the new set of computer commands and data.
17. A remote server site in a public access network, such as the Internet, for providing users with access to services offered over said network, wherein the user applies a code published in print or other medium to a terminal device and sends the code to the remote server site that uses the code to retrieve information from an information source, characterized in that the remote server site comprises: a client interface (302) for receiving a code sent by a code publisher, the code being accompanied with a description of the actions the remote server site has to perform on receipt of the code from the terminal device, a code creation server (201 for converting the description into a set of computer commands and data, a relational database 202) for storing the code and the set of computer commands and data, a user interface (102) for receiving a code sent by a user and for sending results of the actions relating to the code, a decoding server 203) for retrieving, in response to the code received by the user, from the relational database
(202) the set of computer co mands and data using the code as a pointer index, and for performing actions defined in the set of computer commands and data. 42719 - 27 -
18. A remote server site as in claim 17, characterized in that the code creation server (201) includes a program for converting the descriptions attached to the codes into a set of computer commands and/or data readable by decoding server
5 (203) .
19. A remote server site as in claim 17, characterized in that the decoding server (203) includes a program for compiling the user specific information in the format of a remote destination server associated with the code.
10 20. A remote server site as in claim 19, characterized in that the decoding server (203) forms a new set of computer commands and data comprising the original set, the user specific information and an identifying number and sends the new set to the remote destination server
15 21. A remote server site as in claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises a transaction database for storing information about transactions performed by the remote server site in response to codes relating transactions .
22. A system of providing users with access to services 20 offered in a public access network, wherein the user applies a code published in print or other medium to a terminal device, sends the code to the network and receives information from the network, characterized in that the system comprises: 25 a plurality of code creations servers for receiving codes sent by code publishers, each code being accompanied with a description of the actions the system has to perform, and for converting the descriptions into sets of computer commands and data, 30 a plurality of relational databases for storing the codes and the corresponding sets of computer commands and data,
PCT/EP2001/002050 2000-02-25 2001-02-22 Provision of simple access to services WO2001063470A2 (en)

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