Eclipse IP v. Southwest Airlines

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 1 of 225 Page ID #:9
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Matt Olavi, Esq. (Bar No. 265945) molavi@olavidunne.com Brian J. Dunne, Esq. (Bar No. 275689) bdunne@olavidunne.com OLA VI DUNNE LLP 800 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 320 Los Angeles, California 90017 Telephone: (213) 516-7900 Facsimile: (213) 516-7910 Attorneys for Plaintiff Eclipse IP LLC
CLERK, U.S. DISTAICTCOURT
FILED
SEP II 2013
CENTIIAL DISTRICT OF CAUFc RNIA
BY
DEPUTY
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10 11 12 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA ECLIPSE IP LLC, a Florida Limitej,."" ~.. Liability Company, Plaintiff,
v.
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t Ual ~ :_ 664 12Jt(\t~) ~OMPLAINT E02

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) PATENT' ) INFRINGEMENT
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SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO., a Texas Corporation,
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______________________)
) ) TRIAL BY JURY DEMANDED ) ) ) ) )
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Plaintiff Eclipse IP LLC ("Eclipse"), by and through counsel, complains against Southwest Airlines Co. ("Southwest") as follows:
NATURE OF LAWSUIT
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This is a suit for patent infringement arising under the patent laws of
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the United States, Title 35 of the United States Code 1 et seq. This Court has exclusive jurisdiction over the subject matter of the Complaint under 28 U.S.C.
1331 and 1338(a).
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PARTIES AND PATENTS

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Eclipse is a company organized under the laws of Florida and having
a principal place of business at 115 NW 1th St, Delray Beach, Florida 33444.
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Eclipse owns all right, title, and interest in and has standing to sue for
infringement of United States Patent No. 7,119,716 ("the '716 patent"), entitled "Response systems and methods for notification systems for modifying future notifications" (Exhibit A) and United States Patent No. 7,504,966 ("the '966 patent"), entitled "Response systems and methods for notification systems for modifying future notifications" (Exhibit B) (collectively, "the Eclipse Patents"). 4. On information and belief, Southwest is a corporation existing under
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the laws of Texas.
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On information and belief, Southwest does regular business in this
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Judicial District and conduct leading to Southwest's acts of infringement has occurred in this Judicial District.
COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT
JURISDICTION AND VENUE

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This Court has personal jurisdiction over Southwest because it has
engaged in continuous and systematic business in California; upon information and belief, derives substantial revenues from commercial activities in California; and, upon information and belief, is operating and/or supporting products or services that fall within one or more claims of Eclipse's patents in this District.
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Venue is proper in this District under 28 U.S.C. 139l(b) and (c)
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and 28 U.S.C. 1400(a) at least because the claim arises in this Judicial District, Southwest may be found and transacts business in this Judicial District, and injuries suffered by Plaintiff took place in this Judicial District. Southwest is subject to the general and specific personal jurisdiction of this Court at least because of its contacts with the State of California.
FACTUAL BACKGROUND
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On information and belief, Southwest is an airline that offers domestic
and international flights from cities across the United States, including many from Los Angeles. 9. On information and belief, Southwest creates and maintains a
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agents, monitors the location of its various airplanes, and based at least in part on
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the location of a given airplane, determines whether a particular flight will depart from its scheduled departure city and/or whether a particular flight will arrive at its scheduled arrival city earlier than the scheduled time, at the scheduled time, or later than the scheduled time. 11. On information and belief, Southwest also uses the location of its
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various planes to determine whether or not to cancel flights. 12. On information and belief, Southwest uses, makes, deploys,
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advertises, and/or operates at least one system and/or service (the "Southwest System") that can automatically notify one or more individuals about the status of a flight. 13. On information and belief, as one non-limiting example, the
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Southwest System can automatically notify one or more individuals whether a flight is on time, delayed, or cancelled a set number of hours before the flight is scheduled to depart. 14. On information and belief, these notifications can occur through at
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least one communications method, including but not limited to through email and SMS messages, and that the one or more individuals can select or modify which of the at least one communications method should be used.
SOUTHWEST'S ACTS OF PATENT INFRINGEMENT
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15.
Eclipse reiterates and reincorporates the allegations set forth in
paragraphs 1 through 14 above as if fully set forth herein.

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Southwest owns, uses, deploys, and/or operates at least one
computerized service and/or system, the Southwest System, for notifying one or more individuals regarding flight departure and/or arrival times. 17. Based at least in part on the location a Southwest airplane, the
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Southwest System provides electronic notifications to one or more individuals regarding flight departure and/or arrival times.
CLAIMS FOR RELIEF COUNT1 (Patent Infringement of U.S. Patent No. 7,119,716 Under 35 U.S.C. 271 et seq.)
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paragraphs 1 through 17 above as if fully set forth herein. 19. On October 10,2006, the United States Patent and Trademark Office
duly and legally issued United States Patent No. 7,119,716, entitled "Response systems and methods for notification systems for modifying future notifications." Eclipse is the owner of the entire right, title and interest in and to the '716 patent. A true and correct copy of the '716 patent is attached as Exhibit A to this Complaint. 20. 21. The '716 patent is valid and enforceable. Eclipse is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that:
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(1) Southwest has infringed and continues to infringe one or more claims of the '716 patent, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents and additionally
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and/or in the alternative, (2) Southwest has actively induced and continues to actively induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement of one or more claims of the '716 patent in this District and elsewhere in the United States. 22. On information and belief, Southwest has directly infringed and
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continues to directly infringe one or more claims of the '716 patent, in violation of 35 U.S.C. 271(a), by, among other things, making, using, offering for sale, and/or selling a method for communications in connection with a computer-based notification system to, for example: store contact data in computer memory; provide electronic notification communications to a personal communications device based on the contact data; receive changes to the contact data; and modify if and/or how future notification communications will be sent.
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Additionally and/or in the alternative, on information and belief,
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Southwest has actively induced and continues to actively induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement of one or more claims of the '716 patent, in violation of35 U.S.C. 271(b) and/or (c), by, among other things, actively, knowingly, and intentionally encouraging, aiding, and/or abetting others to make, use, offer for sale, and/or sell portions of a computerbased notification system that infringes one or more claims of the '716 patent, with the specific intent to encourage infringement and with the knowledge that the
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making, using, offering to sell, and/or selling of such a system would constitute infringement.
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On information and belief, Southwest has had knowledge of the '716
patent at least as early as the filing of this Complaint. Additionally, at least as early as the filing of this Complaint, Southwest knew or should have known that its continued offering, use, deployment, and/or operation of the at least one flight notification service and/or system and its continued support of others, if those parties perform any limitations of one or more of the claims of the '716 patent, would induce direct infringement of the '716 patent. 25. On information and belief, Southwest's aforesaid infringing activity
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has been done with knowledge and willful disregard of Eclipse's patent rights, making this an exceptional case within the meaning of35 U.S.C. 285. 26. Southwest's aforesaid infringing activity has directly and proximately
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caused damage to Plaintiff Eclipse, including loss of profits from sales and/or licensing revenues it would have made but for the infringements. Unless enjoined, the aforesaid infringing activity will continue and cause irreparable injury to Eclipse for which there is no adequate remedy at law.
COUNT2 (Patent Infringement of U.S. Patent No. 7,504,966 Under 35 U.S. C. 271 et seq.)
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paragraphs 1 through 26 above as if fully set forth herein.

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On March 17, 2009, the United States Patent and Trademark Office
duly and legally issued United States Patent No. 7,504,966, entitled "Response systems and methods for notification systems for modifYing future notifications." Eclipse is the owner of the entire right, title and interest in and to the '966 patent. A true and correct copy of the '966 patent is attached as Exhibit B to this Complaint. 29. 30. The '966 patent is valid and enforceable. Eclipse is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that:
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(1) Southwest has infringed and continues to infringe one or more claims of the '966 patent, literally and/or under the doctrine of equivalents and additionally and/or in the alternative, (2) Southwest has actively induced and continues to actively induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement of one or more claims of the '966 patent in this District and elsewhere in the United States. 31. On information and belief, Southwest has directly infringed and
continues to directly infringe one or more claims of the '966 patent, in violation of 35 U.S.C. 27l(a), by, among other things, making, using, offering for sale, and/or selling a method for communications in connection with a computer-based notification system to, for example: monitor the location of a plane; send a notification communication to a personal communications device when appropriate; receive a response from the personal communications device; and
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based upon the response, initiate one or more future notifications using one or more different communications methods and/or change the time at which a future notification is to be sent. 32. Additionally and/or in the alternative, on information and belief,
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Southwest has actively induced and continues to actively induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement of one or more claims of the '966 patent, in violation of35 U.S.C. 271(b) and/or (c), by, among other things, actively, knowingly, and intentionally encouraging, aiding, and/or abetting others to make, use, offer for sale, and/or sell portions of a computerbased notification system that infringes one or more claims ofthe '966 patent, with the specific intent to encourage infringement and with the knowledge that the making, using, offering to sell, and/or selling of such a system would constitute infringement. 33. On information and belief, Southwest has had knowledge of the '966
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patent at least as early as the filing of this Complaint. Additionally, at least as early as the filing of this Complaint, Southwest knew or should have known that its continued offering, use, deployment, and/or operation of the at least one flight notification service and/or system and its continued support of others, if those parties perform any limitations of one or more of the claims of the '966 patent, would induce direct infringement of the '966 patent.
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III
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On information and belief, Southwest's aforesaid infringing activity
has been done with knowledge and willful disregard of Eclipse's patent rights, making this an exceptional case within the meaning of35 U.S.C. 285. 35. Southwest's aforesaid infringing activity has directly and proximately
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caused damage to Plaintiff Eclipse, including loss of profits from sales and/or licensing revenues it would have made but for the infringements. Unless enjoined, the aforesaid infringing activity will continue and cause irreparable injury to Eclipse for which there is no adequate remedy at law.
PRAYER FOR RELIEF
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WHEREFORE, Plaintiff Eclipse asks this Court to enter judgment against Southwest and against each of Southwest's respective subsidiaries, affiliates,
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it, granting the following relief:

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A judgment that Southwest has infringed each and every one ofthe
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Eclipse Patents; 2. A permanent injunction against Southwest, its respective officers,
agents, servants, employees, attorneys, parent and subsidiary corporations, assigns and successors in interest, and those persons in active concert or participation with them, enjoining them from direct and indirect infringement of each and every one of the Eclipse Patents;
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An award of damages adequate to compensate Eclipse for the
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infringement that has occurred, together with prejudgment interest from the date infringement of the Eclipse Patents began;
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A reasonable royalty for Southwest's use ofEclipse's patented
technology, as alleged herein;
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An award to Eclipse of all remedies available under 35 U.S.C. 284
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and 285, including enhanced damages up to and including trebling of Eclipse's damages for Defendants' willful infringement, and reasonable attorneys' fees and costs; and, 6. and just. Such other and further relief as this Court or a jury may deem proper
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DATED: Septemberll,2013
OLAVI DUNNE LLP
By:_A __~-~-~_:w_'_____
Matt Olavi Brian J. Dunne Attorneys for Plaintiff Eclipse JP LLC
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JURY DEMAND
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Eclipse demands a trial by jury on all issues so triable pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 38.
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DATED: September 11, 2013
OLAVI DUNNE LLP
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By:....:/~--/-.<_~_..:...'------Matt Olavi Brian J. Dunne Attorneys for Plaintiff Eclipse IP LLC
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Exhibit A

11111111111111 111111111111111111 11111111111111111111 111111111111111 11111111
US0071J 9716B2
ozJ
United States Patent

Horstemeyer
RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR MODIFYING FUTURE NOTIFICATIONS
(!OJ
(45)
Patent No.: US 7,119,716 B2 Date of Patent: Oct. 10, 2006

5/1975 111976 9/1980 10/1981 4/1982 9) 1982 6/1985 4/1986 12/1987 Cottin et a!. ................ 3401994 Macano ................... 2351150.2 Henriot ....................... 340/23 Fmchey eta!. ............... 340/23 Bishop ....................... 340/539 Greer .......................... 340/23 Barnich et al. ......... 37917 :MM: Mincone eta! ......... 179/7.1 TP Boone et al. ............... 340/994
(54)
3,886,515 A
3,934,125 A 4,220,946 A
4,297,672 A
(75)
Inventor:
Scott A. Horstemeyer, Atlanta, GA (US)
(73) Assignee: LegaiVIew Assets, Limited, Tortola

(VG)
4,325,057 4,350,969 4,525,601 4,585,904 4,713,661
A A A A
( *)
Notice;
Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
(Continued) FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
patent is extended or adjusted under 35

U.S.C. 154(b) by 328 days. (21) (22) (65) Appl. No.: lono6,591
EP
0219859 A1
4/1987
(Continued) OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Moriok, et al., "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and communication Systems for Bus Transit-Benefits and Economic Feasibility", Final Report-U.S. Department of Transportation, Sep. 1991, Revised l\.1a.r. 1993, DotT94-03.
Filed:
Nov. 12, 2003
Prior Publication Data

US 2004/0254985 AI
Dec. 16, 2004
Related U.S. Application Data

(60) Provisional application No. 60/473,738, filed on May
(Continued)
28, 2003, provisional application No. 60/473,742,

filed on May 28, 2003, provisional application No.
60/473,949, filed on May 28, 2003, provisional appli~

cation No. 60/486,768, filed on Jul. 11, 2003, provi-
Primary Examiner~Tai Nguyen (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm~'flwmas, Horstemeyer & Risley LLP
(57) ABSTRACT
Kayden,
sional application No. 60/498,819, filed on Aug. 29,

2003. (51) (52) (58)
(2006.01) 340/994; 340/928; 340/539.]]; 340/502; 340/504; 340/506 Field of Classification Search ................ 340/994, 340/928, 539.ll, 502,504,506
Int. Cl. G08G 1/123 U.S. Cl............ ..
See application file for complete search history.

(56)
References Cited
U.S. PArENT DOCUMENTS
3,568,161 A 3,644,883 A 3/1971 Knickel ..................... 340/994 2/1972 Bonnan et al. ............... 340/23 10/1974 French .................... 235/151.2
Response systems and methods are disclosed for communications in connection with a computerbased notification system and a personal communications device (e.g., telephone, pager, computer, PDA, etc.) associated with a party. One such representative response method, among others, can be summarized by the follo\Ving steps: initiating a notification communication to a personal communications device associated with a party; receiving a response com munication from the party's personal communications device; and modifying a manner in which future notification communications are implemented, based upon the response. A representative response system, among others, has mechanisms for implementing the foregoing steps.
92 Claims, 50 Drawing Sheets
3,845,289 A
Exhibit A
Page 12
US 7,119,716 B2
Page 2
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

12/1988 Takahashi et al ........... 364/436 1/1989 Shinkawa et al ........... 364/436 211989 Farley ........................ 250/251 211989 Barbiau.x eta!. ......... 340/52 F 4,804,937 A 311989 Champion, III et a.!. .... 340/905 4,812,843 A 3/1989 Segala ....................... 379/112 4,813,065 A 811989 Brubaker .................... 340/994 4,857,925 A 111990 Davis .................... 340/825.44 4,894,649 A 911990 Cearley et a! ......... 364/424.02 4,956,777 A 3/1991 Benyaca.r eta!. ........... 379/119 5,003,584 A 4/1991 Rush eta! .................. 340/994 5,006,847 A 5/1991 Scribner eta! ............. 364/449 5,014,206 A 6/1991 Fabiano et al. ............. 340/994 5,021,780 A 6/l991 Fabiano eta!. ... . .. 264/436 5,021,789 A 9/1991 Harrington eta!. ......... 379/ll2 5,048,079 A 11/1991 Sutherland .................. 340/989 5,068,656 A 311992 Wood eta!. ................ 364/569 5,097,429 A 4/1992 Shuen ........................ 379/115 5,103,475 A 5/1992 Ichikawa .................. 3401995 5,113,185 A 611992 Moroto eta!. .............. 364/449 5,121,326 A 6/1992 Nathanson et al .......... 364/436 5,122,959 A 7/1992 Liebesny et a!. ............. 379/59 5,131,020 A 9/1992 Jackson eta! .............. 340/994 5,144,301 A 9/1992 Silver et a! ................. 379/114 5,146,491 A 10/1992 Wortham .................... 364/460 5,155,689 A 1211992 Bolger ....................... 364/436 5,168,451 A 1/1993 Tsumura ..................... 379/114 5,179,584 A 6/1993 Dumond, Jr. et a! .......... 379/59 5,218,629 A 6/1993 Cool .......................... 379/126 5.218,632 A 6/1993 Mansell et al .............. 342/357 5,223,844 A 9/1993 Kashiwazaki ............... 364/449 5,243,529 A 1211993 Bahjat eta! ............... 187/29.1 5,271,484 A 3/1994 Wortham .................... 364/460 5,299,132 A 6/1994 Oprea ........................ 379/375 5,323,456 A 9/1994 Ross et a! ................... 364/449 5,351,194 A 11/1994 Reyes eta! ................... 379/96 5,361,296 A 111995 Wysocki et a! ............. 364/449 5,381,338 A 1/1995 Rosinski et al ............. 379/121 5,381,467 A 211995 Kuwahara eta!. .......... 364/449 5,394,332 A 3/1995 Wortham .................... 364/460 5,398,190 A 3/1995 Jones ......................... 340/994 5,400,020 A 5/1995 James ........................ 364/436 5,420,794 A 5,424,727 A "' 6/l995 Shieh ......................... 340/928 6/1995 Shah et al .................. 364/449 5,428,546 A 711995 Rimer ......................... 379/59 5,432,841 A 811995 Ne...,man ............... 364/426.05 5,440,489 A 811995 Ross .......................... 340/994 5,444,444 A 8/1995 Saltzstein et al ............ 364/514 5,446,678 A 9/1995 Kemner et al ......... 3651424.02 5,448,479 A 10/1995 Lewiner et al .............. 340/994 5,461~74 A 1/1996 Correel eta! ............... 340/994 5,483,234 A 111996 Lewiner et al .............. 364/443 5,483,454 A 1/1996 Chaum eta!. ................ 705/74 5,485,520 A "' 2/1996 Lewiner eta!. ............. 340/994 5,493,295 A 211996 Vlcek eta! ................ 455/53.1 5,493,694 A 4/1996 Buscher et al .............. 379/114 5,506,893 A 4/1996 Wortham .................... 364/460 5,513,111 A 5/1996 Sikand et al .................. 379/67 5,515,421 A 5/1996 Wortham .................... 364/460 5,519,621 A 611996 Roach, Jr. eta!. ............ 379/59 5,526,401 A 7/1996 Kennedy, III et al. ........ 379!59 5,539,810 A 8/1996 Kennedy, III et al ......... 379/59 5,544,225 A 8/1996 Roach, Jr. eta!. ............ 379/59 5,546,444 A 911996 Tayloe eta! ................ 342/357 5,552,795 A 9/1996 Smith ......................... 379/115 5,559,871 A 10/1996 Grube et al ................. 364/446 5,570,100 A 11/1996 Bohm ......................... 379/58 5,577,101 A ll/1996 Kennedy, III et al ......... 379/60 5,579,376 A 12/1996 Lewis ........................ 342/357 5,587,715 A 1/1997 Shah et al. .............. 364/449.1 5,594,650 A 1/1997 Ohshima eta!. ............ 379/114 5,594,787 A 4,791,571 A
4,799,162 A 4,804,837 A
5,602,739 5,623,260 5,648,770 5,652.707 5.657,010 5,668,543 5,673,305 5,680,119 5,694,322 5,694,459 5,699,275 5,712,908 5,715,307 5,719,771 5,724,243 5,724,584 5,729,597 5,732.074 5,734,981 5,736,940 5,739,774 5,742,672 5,751,245 5,760,742 5,771,282 5,771,455 5,774,825 5,781,156 5,784,443 5,793,853 5,796,365 5,799,073 5.799,263 5,805,680 5,808,565 RE35,920 5,835,580 5,841,847 5,852,659 5,864,610 5,875,238 5,881,138 5,910,979 5,912,954 5,915,006 5,920,613 5,922,040 5,937,044 5,943,320 5,943,406 5,943,657 5,945,919 5,946,379 5,950,174 5,955,974 5,956,391 5,982,864 5,987,103 5,987,377 5,991,377 5,991,380 5,991,381 5,995,602 6,006,159 6,094,149 6,097,317 6,111,538 6,124,810 6,134,501 6,137,425 6,144,301 6,178,378 6,184,802
A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A E A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A B1 Bl
2/1997 Haagenstad eta!. ........ 364/436
411997 Jones ......................... 340/994

7/1997 7/1997 8/1997 9/1997 9/1997 10/1997 12/1997 12/1997 12Jl997 J/1998 2/1998 2/1998 3/1998 3/1998 3/1998 3/1998 3/1998 4/1998 411998 4/1998 5/1998 6/1998 6/1998 6/1998 6/1998 7/1998 7/1998 8/1998 8/1998 8/1998 8/1998 9/1998 9/1998 10/1998 1111998 1111998 12/1998 1/1999 2/1999 3/1999 Ross .......................... 340/994 Wortham .... ., .............. 364/460 Jones ......................... 340/994 Jones ......................... 3401994 Ross ........................... 379/58 Maglia.ri et al ............. 340/904 Westerlage et al. ......... 364/464 Backaus et al. ............ 379/427 Beasley eta!. ......... 364/514 R Brinkman eta!. .......... 379/119 Zazzera ...................... 379/265 Bucket al.................. 364/443 Westerlage et al .......... 364/446 Peters et a!. ................ 395/671 Bhusri ........................ 379/115 Spaur eta! ................. 370/313 Kennedy, III eta! ....... 455/445 Burgener .................... 340!994 Olandesi ..................... 340/994 Burk .......................... 379/198 Janky et al ................. 342/357 Branch et al............... 342/457 Friedes ....................... 379/121 Kennedy, III et al ....... 455/456 Reynolds ................. 364/449.7 Krasner ...................... 342/357 Chapman eta! ............ 379/119 Sbisa ......................... 379/120 Lewis ........................ 3421357 Fleischer, lii et al ....... 379!l13 Culbertson .................. 701/117 Penzias ...................... 379/118 Matta et al ................. 340/994 Sonien et al ............... 342/457 Fraser ........................ 379/115 Graham et al .............. 379/114 Welter, Jr................... 379/116 Ronen ........................ 379/127 Glitho et al ................ 379/116 Kearns et al. .............. 379/114 Goel et al ................... 379/120 \Vh.ited et a!. .............. 379/115 Jagadish et a! ............. 379/!27 Alcott et al ................. 379/114 Prabhakaran ............... 701/117 Kim ........................... 3791121 Weik eta!. ................. 370/259 Leta et al ................... 379/120 Freestone et al. ........... 705/400 Trask .................. 340/825.491 Bhusri ........................ 379/115 Brendzel ..................... 705/34 Togawa ...................... 340/994 Melen et al ................ 379/114 Jagadish et al ............. 379/llS Jagadish et al ............. 379/114 Westerlage et al. ......... 7011204 Malik ......................... 379/114 Bruno et al. ................ 379/115 Bommaka eta!. .......... 379/115 Johnson et al. ............. 379/116 Schmier et al .............. 7011200 Wilson ....................... 340/904 Lewiner eta!. ............. 340/994 Schuchman eta! ......... 342/357 Segal et al .................. 340/994 Oumi ......................... 701/209 Oster et al. ................. 3401994 Frieden ................... 340/572.8 Leibold ...................... 701/202 Lamb ......................... 340/994
611999
6/1999
611999
7/1999 7/1999 811999 8/1999 8/1999 8/1999 8/1999 811999 9/1999 9/1999 9/1999 1111999 11/1999 11/1999 ll/1999 1l/1999 11/1999 11/1999 12/1999 7/2000 8/2000 8/2000 9/2000 10/2000 10/2000 11/2000 J/2001
212001
Exhibit A
Page 13
US 7,119,716 B2
Page 3
The 3rd International Conference on Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems (VNIS) Norway, Sep. 2-4, 1992, pp. 312-315 . Preiss, George; Jenson, Lillian; "The Satref and GPS Information Projects", 1992 IEEE~3rd International Conference on Vehcile Navigation Information Systems, pp. 648-655. "Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings" (P-253), Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc., Oct. 1991, pp . 789-796. "1992 Compendium of Technica] Papers", Institute of Transportation Engineers-INR.t\D: A Deminostration of Two-Way Roadway to Vehicle Communication for use in Traffic Operations, Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C. pp. 214-218. "Paving the Way for GPS in Vehicle Tracking", Showcase World, Dec. 1992. "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Communication Systems for Bus Transit", Federal Transit Administration, Sep. 1991, Revised Mar. 1993. Koncz, et a!., "GIS-Based Transit Information Bolsters Travel Options", GIS World, Jul. 1995, pp. 62-64 . Hellcker, Jan, Real-Time Traveller Information~in everyone's pocket?!~a pilot test using hand-portable GSM tenninals, IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 49-52 . Burgener, E.C., eta\., "A Persona] Transit Arrival Time Receiver", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 5455, Peng, ZhongMRen, "A Methodology for Design for a GIS-Based Automatic Transit Traveler Information System", Computer, Environment and Urban Systems, vol. 21, No.5, pp. 359-372, 1997 . Lessard, Robert, "The Use of Computer for Urban Transit Operations", IEEE~IEE Vehicle Navigation & Information systems Conference, Ottawa, VN1S 1993, pp. 586-590 . Sommerville, Fraser, et al., "Reliable Information in Everyone's Pocket-a Pilot Test", IEEE, vol. 1927, Mar. 1994, pp. 425-428 . "PROMISE-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service-Specification of Promise Services, Ver. 7", Telematics Application Programme A2, Transport, Jul. 1, 1996 . "PROMISE~Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service--Generic Promise System Architecture, Ver. 2", Telematics Application Programme A2, Transport, Sep. 10, 1996. "PROMISE-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service-Sununary of Promise Public Relation Activities, Ver. 1", Telematics Application Programme A2, Transport, Feb. 12, 1999. "PROMISE-A Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service-Abstract", The Institution of Electrical Engineers, 1997. Sommerville, Fraser, et al., "The Promise of Increased Patronage", The Institution of Electrical Engineers, 1993, pp. 3/l-3/4. "Automatic Transit Location System", Washington State Department of Transportation, Final Report, Feb. 1996, "Advanced Traveler Aid Systems for Public Transportation", FedM era! Transit Administration, Sep. 1994. "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Communications Systems for Bus Transit: Benefits and Economic Feasibility", U.S. Department of Transportation, Urban Mass Transportation Administration, Sep. 1991. Leong, Robert, et al., "An Unconventional Approach to Automatic Vehicle Location and Control for Urban Transit", IEEE 1989, pp. 219-223. "1994 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings", Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 807-810. "Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings-PM253, Part 2", Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc., Oct. 1991. Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems-Conference Record of Papers presented at the 3'cl Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference 1992., Reso Hotel, Osio Plaza., pp. 49-52. Nelson, J. Richard, "Experiences Gained in Implementing an Economical Universal Motorist System", , IEEE-rEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 67-71. "The Cassiope/Eurobus Approach", IEEE~IEE Vehicle Navigation & Information SyStems Conference, Ottawa, V'NIS 1993, pp. 79-81.
6,191,708 Bl 6,222,462 Bl 6.240,362 Bl 6,253,146 Bl 6,253,148 Bl 6,278,936 Bl 6,313,760 Bl 6,317,060 BI 6,360,101 BI 6,363,254 BI 6,363,323 BI 6,374,176 BI 6,400,956 BI 6,411,891 BI 6,415,207 BI 6,486,80I BI 6,492,912 BI 6,510,383 BI 6,618,668 BI 6,683,542 BI 6,700,507 BI 6,882,334 BI' 6,943,679 BI' 2002/0016171 AI 2002100690I7 AI 2002/0082770 AI 2002/0099500 AI 20031009II58 AI' 2003/0093218 AI 2003/0098802 AI 2003/0146854 AI 2003/0193412 AI 2003/0193413 AI 2003/0193414 AI 2003/0195696 A! 2003/0195697 AI 2003/0195698 AI 200310I95699 AI 2003/0233 I 88 AI 2003/0233190 AI
2/2001 Davidson .................... 41200 I Hahn ................ 5/2001 Gaspard, II ................. 612001 Hanson eta!. .............. 612001 Dccaux ct a!. .............. 8/2001 Jones ...................... , .. ll/2001 Jones ......................... 1!12001 Jones ......................... 3/2002 Irvin ....................... , .. 3/2002 Jones et al .................. 3/2002 Jones ........................ 4/2002 Schmier et al. ............. 6/2002 Richton ......................
7/2002 1ll2002 1212002 l/2003 9/2003 112004 3/2004 412005 9/2005 2/2002 612002 612002 7/2002
340/994
340/904 7011209
701/202 ?Ol/204 ?Ol/201
340/994
3401994 445/456
455/456 701/213
701/200
455/456 612002 Jones ......................... 70l/201

Jones ............................ 701/1 Jones ......................... 340/994 Jones Jones ........... 70II204 Laird Jones ......................... 340/994 Jones ......................... 340/994 Meyer ........................ 345/156 Sebanc et al. .............. 340/505 Doganata et al. ........... 455/456 Schmier eta!. ............. 70l/213 Jones Schmier et al .............. 70II200 Puchek et al. ................ 379138 Jones ......................... 701/201 Jones ......................... 3401994 Jones ......................... 3401988 Jones ...................... .. 340/994 Jones ......................... 340/994 Jones ......................... 340/994 Jones ......................... 7011201 Jones ......................... 7011201 Jones ......................... 701/201 Jones ......................... 701120I Jones ......................... 70l/200 Jones ......................... 7011207
512003
5/2003 5/2003 8/2003 10/2003 10/2003 10/2003 10/2003 10/2003 10/2003 10/2003 12/2003 I212003
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
EP EP
FR FR
GB GB
.TP
wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo
JP JP
wo
0805427 0889455 2 559 930 2674355 WO 93/13510 WO 9313510 52066175 63288400 11034872 wo 90/01236 wo 93/13503 wo 94/02922 wo 94/27264 96104634 wo 96116386 98107I28 wo 98/08206 wo 98/14926 wo 98/40837
AI A1
Al A1
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ll/I997 111999 8/1985 9/1992 7/1993 71I993 611977 1111988 2/1999 2/1990 7/!993 21I994 11/1994 2/1996 5/1996 2/1998 2/1998 4/1998 9/1998
01HER PUBLICATIONS
Bcynielsson, Thore, Step by Step Development Towards Attractive Public Transport. Chalmers University of Technology, Gotebord, Sweden, Department of Transportation, 1976. "Public Transporation Information and Management Ssytems", IEE Colloquium, Computing and Control Division, May 25, 1993, pp. 9/1~9/4, 12/1-12/2, 7/1-7/3. "Vehicle Location and Fleet Management Systems", IEE Colloquium, Computing and Control Division, Jun. 8, 1993.
Exhibit A Page 14
US 7,119,716 B2
Page 4
Kihl, Mary, "Advanced Vehicle Location System for Paratransit in "Board Cites ATC in Spokane Near Miss", Article in Aviation Week & Space Technology, Mar. 28, !977, URL http://www.aviationnow. com. Shifrin, Carole A., "Gate Assignment Expert System Reduces Delays at United's Hubs", Article in Aviation Week & Space Technology, Jan. 25, 1988. "United Airlines applies TI's advance technologies to improve gate management at major airports", A.rticle in Business Wire, Inc., Nov. 19, 1987. Musich, Paula, "Airline Designs Software to move planes, people; Unite Airline's use of Covia Corp.'s Open Systems Manager, Connectjvity Section", Article in PC Week, Jun. 7, 1988, vol. 5, No. 23, p. Cll. Stoll, Marilyn, "Systems help Airlines Manage Gate Schedules; Connectivily Supplement", PC Week, Jul. 25, 1988, val. 5, No. 30, p. C4. Reddy, Shyamala, "Traveling LAN: United Airlines Networks Its Terminals", Article in The Local Area Network Magazine, Jan. 1990, vol. 5, No. 1, p. 108. Fisher, Sharon, "Networked Airport Systems help Travelers find their way; United Airlines subsidiary Covia Corp. devices integrated network.", Article in Software Magazine, Mar. 15, 1990, vol. 10, No. 4, p. 31. Henderson, Danna K., ''Automation Takes aim at airports: the power of the networked PC is being unleashed on passenger hand.Jing and ramp activities worldwide.", Article in Air Transport Wold, Aug. 1990., Vol. 27, No. 8, p. 52. "United Airlines introduces United Cargo Plug I, a new cargo computer system to serve freight foiWarders", Business Wire, Oct. 22, 1990. Miller, Barry, "Special Report: Airline Equipment, Service Center", Aviation Week & Space Technology, Aug. 25, 1975, p. 51. Lyon, Mark W., "Cargo Net Debate Splits Industry", Journal of Commerce, Specials, p. 4, Jul. 27, 1992. Davies, l.L., et al., "Electronics and the Aeroplane", Proceedings of the Institution of Electrical Engineers, Paper No. 7604, delivered before the lEE Electronics Division, Oct. 29, 1975. "Global Niche", Flight International, Sep. 26, 1990. "RealTime Briefings", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Oct. 13, 1986. Flanagan, Mike, et a!., "Amelia Earhart-Mystery Still Clouds Soaring Achievements", Chicago Tribune, Jul. 5, 1987, Final Edition, p. 5, Tempo Woman. "Official Airline Guides", Airports, Nov. 20, 1990, Around Air ports, vol. 7, No. 47, p. 485. "Automation System Gains Acceptance", Aviation Week & Space Technology, Nov. 23, 1992, vol. 137, No, 21, p. 97. Klass, Philip, "French Testing Grotmd-Derived MLS ",Aviation & Space Technology, Avionics, p. 56, Dec. 15, 1975. "Forecast Realized for ATC System", Aviation & Space Technology, Mar. 17, 1975, Avionics, p. 168. Henderson, Danna, et al., "Ionworks: America West Automates New Phoenix Terminal Fully Integrated System to Hamdle Customer Service Demands (America West Airlines Inc) (Includes Related Article Automation of passenger Service at Airports)", Airport Transport World, May I, 1991. vol. 62. 3 Pages from a web site search under http://mit.edu/afs/net.rnit/edul project/attic/usa-today/tech/37, Jun. 12, 2003. "What's New in passenger Handling Equipment", Air Transport World, vol. 24, p. 62, Sep. 1987. "Senator Urges Acceleration ofNavstar", Aviation & Space Tech nology, Avionics, p. 153, Oct. 3, 1983. "AFSC Broadens Joint Program Efforts", Aviation & Space Technology, System Acquisition, p. 83, Ju. 19, 1976. Herskovitz, Don, "GPS Insurance Antijamming the System; Brief _,.\rticle", Journal of Electronic Defense, Dec. 1, 2000, No. 12, vol. 23, p. 41. Hambly, Richard M., et al., "Aircraft Traffic Management on the Airport Surface Using VHF Data Link for CNS", IEEE AES Systems Magazine, Mar. 1995, pp. 9-13. Berzins. G., et al., '"INMARSAT: Worldwide Mobile Satellite Services on Seas, in Air and on Land", Space Technology, vol. 10, No.4, pp. 231-237, 1990.
Iowa", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems

Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 381-384. Gault, Helen, et al., "Automatic Vehicle Location and Control atOC Transpo", IEEE~IEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa., VNIS 1993, pp. 596-600. Vehicle navigation & Information System_____.(:onference Record of
Papers presented at the First Vehicle Navigation and Infonnation Systems Conference (VNTS '89), Sep. 11-!3, 1999, pp. 602-605. Heti, Gabriel, ''Travelguide_: Ontario's Route Guidance System Demonstration", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. Al3-Al8. Jeffery, D.J., eta!., "Advanced Tmveller Information Systems in the
UK: Experience from the Pleiades and Romanse Projects", IEEE-IEE Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 309-313. Sweeney, Lawrence, E., et al., "Travinfo: A Progress Report", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 315-320. Shimamura, Yta, et al., "Combined Position Detection System for Pedl:lstrian/Trai.n Mode", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 603-606. Zavoli, Walt, ''Customer Location Services", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 613-617. Tann.ka, Yoshim.i, et a!., "Automatic Traffic AlAnfonnatlon Provision System Utilizing Facsimile and Telephone (Now Operating in Osaka), 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation Systems Conference Proceedings", Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 627-632. McDonald, Mike, et al., "Romanse (Road. Management System for EuropeProject", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. A-11-A-14. Scott III, Robert H., "Computer-Aided Dispatch,", 1998, pp. 46-50. Moore, Rodney J., "Hold the Phone!", American Demographics, Ithaca, Jan./Feb. I996,_p. 68. Delong, Jr., Edgar S., "Making 911 even better", Telephony, Dec. 14, 1987, pp. 60.63 Bruzek, Frank .f., "Class Calling Service-A Consumer Service Perspective", Globecom '85 IEEE Global Telecommunications Conference, Dec. 25, 1985, vol. 1 of3, pp. 11.4.111.4.4. Powell, R., et al., "Real Time Passenger Information System for the Romanse Project", Colloouin Digest--IEE, Boston, Sep. 1993, pp. 9/1-9/3. Huber, Paul, "Public Transport Information Systems in Munich", Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress '95-Second Wold Congress on Intelligent Transport Systems, Yokohama, Japan, Nov. 9-11, 1995, pp. 2362-2366. Ronez, Nicholas, et a!, "GIS-Based Transit Information Bolsters Travel Options", GIS World, vol. 6, part 7, .Tun. 1995, pp. 62-64. Catling, Ian, et al., "TABASCO-Improving Transport Systems in Europe", Pacific Rim Trans Tech Conference, Jul. 30Aug. 2, 1995, 995 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings, Washington State Convention and Trade Center, Seattle, Washington, USA, pp. 503-507. Dailey, D.J., "Demonstration of an Advance Public Transportation System in the Context of an IVHS Regional Architecture", Pro ceedings of the First World Congress on Applications of Transport Telematics and Intelligent Vehicle-Highway Systems, Nov. 30-Dec. 3, 1994, Paris, France, pp. 3024-3031. Hubner, Pru.Il, "Advance Public Transportation Information in Munich", International Conference on Public Transport Electronic Systems, Conference Publication No. 42, Jun. 1996. Thompson, S.M., et al., "Exploiting Telecommunications to Delivery Real Time Transport Information", Road Transport Information and Control, Apr. 21-23, 1998, pp. 59-63, Conference Publication No. 454 lEE 1998. Kaminitzer, David, et al., Driver Infonnation Systems: Influencing your Route, lEE Seminar, J\.1a.r. 3, 1999, pp. 5/1-5/5.
Exhibit A Page 15
US 7,119,716 B2
Page 5
Jenney, LL, et aL, "Man as Manager of Automated Resources in an Advanced Air Traffic System", J, Aircraft, vol. 12, No. 12, Dec. 1975. "Routing & Scheduling System improvements from RTSI; Routing Lefer, Heruy, "Computers on a boon to E&M, but at a price", Air Transport World, vol. 23, p. 53, Feb. 1986. Donaghue, J.A., "Choice of Data Link Systems Expands as New Generation Hits the Market", Air Transport World, vol. 20, p. 58, Apr. 1983. Klass, Philip J., "Digital Network Could Improve Aircraft Links to Operations, ATC", Aviation Week and Space Technology, International Air Transport Section, vol. 131, No. 21, p. 121, Nov, 20, 1989. Board Cites ATC in Spokane Near Miss, Article in Aviation Week & Space Technology, Safety Section, Mar. 28, 1977, p. 59. "Vicorp Interactive Systems", Aviation Daily, Aviation Suppliers Section, val. 309, No. 17, p. 147. Neumann, Dr. Horst, "ATC Concepts with Extensive Utilization of Automatic Data Processing", pp. 4-1 to 4-9; no Publication Information or Date Information Provided. Balke, Kevin, et al., Collection and Dissemination of Real-Time Travel Time and Incident Infonnation with In-Vehicle Communication Technologies, pp. 77-82, no Publication Information or Date Infonnation Available.
Technology Software, Inc.; Product Announcement", Modern Brewery Age, vol. 43, No.3, p. liS, Jan. 20, 1992. Yanacek, Frank, "Hitching to the stars; satellites for shipment tracking", Research Information Transportation Journals, Com bined, No.6, vol. 29, p. 16. Stoll, Marilyn, "For on-the-road fums, hand-held terminals are
pivotal. Connectivity", Research Information Transportation Journab:, Combined, No. 34, vol. 5, p. Cll. "IBM and Hunt to Market New Truck Tracker; International Busi-
ness Machines", lB. Hunt Transport Services; Brief Article, No. 210, vol. lOl, p. 4. Klass, Philip J., "Two Carriers Plan Automatic Data Link", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Air Transport Section, May 23, 2977, p. 36. "Data Link Evolved Over Three Decades", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Air Transport Section, May 23, 1977, p. 36. Klass, Philip J., "American to Install Printers in Cockpits", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Avionics, Jul. 21, 1980, p. 56.
* cited by examiner
Exhibit A Page 16
e
Notification System 41\ Base Station (BS) Manager 40 Positioning System (e.g., GPS Satellites, radar, etc.) 1?3 Base Station Control Unit (BSCU) Stop Location Determination System 190 Mobile Thing Determination System 250 6 31b52 Combined MTTL And DTL Notification System 290
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t
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INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER

File Edit
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Go To
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YOU HAVE RECEIVED NEW MAIL
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FROM
SUBJECT
Arriving in 2 Minule5'(1:49 PM)~ SecUrity By Secure Arrival
EST
XYZ~Chanly@secur
---
RECEIVED
1:47:58 PM
..
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VERIFICATION W/>S PASSWORD "f'AT123456'"
Subj: YXZ CHARITY ARRIVJNG IN 2 MINUTES Date: 1/28/1995 1:47:56 PM Eastern Standard Time From: PatSmith@SecureArrival.com To: NancyS@DomaiD.com
The person to the right will be approaching your home at 1:49 pm.
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Please reply to this message for additional
235
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verification, to cancel the arrival, or to reschedule.
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RECIPIENTS OF NOTIFICATION MESSAGES BASE STATION CONTROL UNIT/S VEHICLE NAVIGATION DEVICE WITH NOTIFICATION MESSAGING
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'PeRSON'S MOBILE PHONE
PERSON'S TELEVISION
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Ill
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RESPONSE MUST BE RECEIVED WITHIN
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SELECT COMPANY
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'NOTIFICATION WAS RECEIVED AND YOU HAVE

A CONFIRMED RESERVATION AT 6:40PM UNDER WHITE
PLEASE CHECK~IN UPON
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ARRIVAL THANK YOU.
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AN ARRIVAL NOTIFICATION WAS SELECTED FOR THE XYZ ITALIAN RESTAURANT
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XYZ Italian Restaurant
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INVEHICLE NAVIGATION SYSTEM UTIUI':ING DISTANCE AFTER MESSAGE WAS SENT AS THE DEFAULT FOR RECIPIENTS TO MSPOND TO NOTIFICATION MESSAGe;
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LANNED STOPS
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CURRENT
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RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR MODIFYING FUTURE NOTIFICATIONS CLAIM OF PRIORITY This application claims the benefit of and priority to the following provisional applications, all of which are incorporated herein in their entirety: Ser. No. 60/473,738, filed May 28, 2003; Ser. No. 60/473,742, filed May 28, 2003; Ser. 10 No. 60/473,949, filed May 28, 2003; Ser. No. 60/486,768, filed Jul. 11, 2003; and Ser. No. 60/498,819, filed Aug. 29, 2003. RELATED APPLICATIONS 15
2
Another example involves school children that ride school buses. The arrival times of school buses at scheduled stops can be significantly affected by many factors, such as maintenance problems, rush hour traffic, congested urban/ suburban conditions, and adverse weather. As a result, school children typically wait at bus stops for long periods of time, oftentimes in adverse weather conditions, on unlit street comers, or in hazardous conditions near busy or secluded streets. A..n advance notification system that would inform the students of the school bus's proximity would be desirable so that students can avoid having to wait for the school bus at the bus stop for extended time periods. Yet another example involves the commercial overnight package industry, wherein packages are delivered or picked up many times on a tight schedule. Customers oftentimes wait on delivery or pickup of important time-critical packages, not knowing precisely when the delivery or pickup will occur. A notification system that can infOrm a customer of the precise arrival or departure time of a delivery vehicle with respect to a location would be desirable in order to improve customer seiVice and to allow the customer to better schedule a delivery or pickup of an item, Still another example involves the airline industry. 1t is desirable to notifY airline workers, such as those who unload baggage from airplanes, when an airplane is about to land or has landed, A notification system can be employed to track the airplane travel status and to send notifications to these workers, when appropriate. To date, notification systems have heen developed to address the foregoing needs and some are known in the art, Mr. M. Kelly Jones, a prolific inventor in tills field, obtained munerous patents that describe examples of such notification systems, some of which are as follows; U.S, Pat. No. 5,400,020; U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,444; U.S. Pat. No. 5,623,260; U.S. Pat No. 5,647,010; U.S. Pat. No. 5,648,770; U.S. Pat No. 5,657,010; U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,543; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,020; U.S.Pat. No. 6,278,936; U.S. Pat No. 6,317,060; U.S. Pat No. 6,363,323; U.S. Pat No. 6,363,254; U.S. Pat No. 6,4]],891; U.S. Pat No. 6,415,207; U.S. Pat No. 6,492,912; U.S. Pat. No. 6,510,383; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,61R,668. A nonexhaustive list of other examples of notification systems is as follows: U.S, Pat, No, 6,006,159 (for a public bus transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,176 (for a public bus transit system); application Ser. No. 09/163,535, filed on Sep. 30, 1998; U.S. Pat. No, 5,602,739 (for a public transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 5, 736,940 (tracking system for buses; notice of impending arrival is described); U,S. Pat. No. 5,808,565 (GPS triggered automatic enunciator for public transportation vehicles that notifies of a stop based upon the location of the vehicle); U.S. Pat. No, 5,955,974 (apparatus carried by a user to notifY of arrival so user does not miss stop); U.S. PaL No, 5,987,377 (dispatch system that determines expected time of arrival and indicates to dispatcher when a vehicle will be late); U,S. Pat. No. 6,124,810 (vehicle apparatus determines when vehicle has arrived or departed from a planned or unplanned stop and communicates such infonnation to a central facility); U.S, Pat. No, 6,137,425 (waiting time prediction system for a public transit system); U.S. Pat No, 6,178,378 (a vehicle navigation system where a start call, such as by telephone, is made); and U$. Pat. No. 6,184,802 (system for informing users when a next vehicle will arrive at their boarding site). Furthermore, a noncxhaustive Jist of examples of tracking systems is as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 5,014,206; U.S. Pat. No, 5,113,185; U.S. Pat. No. 5,155,689; U.S. Pat. No. 5,168,451 (transit system for dispatching vehicles); U.S. Pat. No.
'Il1is application is related to the following copending U.S. utility patent applications that were filed by the same inventor of this application: (I) "RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTI- 20 FICATION SYSTEMS" filed on Jun. 2, 2004 and assigned Ser. No. 10/858,684; (2) "SECURE NOTIFICATION MESSAGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS USING AUTHENTICATION INDICIA" filed on Jun. 2, 2005 and assigned Ser. No. 10/858, 25 732; (3) "STOP LOCATION DETERMINATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS BASED UPON USER-DEFINED TIMING CRITERIA" PILED ON Jun. 2, 2005 and 30 assigned Ser. No. 10/858,774; (4) "STOP LIST GENER"riON SYSTEMS AND METHODS BASED UPON TRACKED !'CD'S AND RESPONSES FROM NOTIFIED PCD'S" filed on Jun. 2, 2005 and assigned Ser, No, 10/859,343; and 15 (5) "NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS ENABLING A RESPONSE TO CAUSE CONNECTION BETWEEN A NOTIFIED PCD AND A DELIVERY OR PJCKUF REPRESENTATIVE" filed on Jun. 2, 2005 and assigned Ser. No. 10/858,964. 40 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
I. Field of the Invention The present invention generally relates to data communications, information, and messaging systems and, more particularly, to systems and methods that notify a party of travel status associated with one or more mobile things (MTs). 2. Related Art For at least the purposes of allowing better preparation and scheduling, for example, with respect to pickups or deliveries. it would be desirable to know, with substantial accuracy, the expected arrival or departure time of a mobile vehicle or thing (lOr example but not limited to, a bus, automobile, truck, train, ship, plane, aircraft, etc.) with respect to a location. Por example, consider a commercial bus service, A person intending to catch a bus or intending to pick up a friend or relative at the conunercial bus station usually calls the bus station to find out the approximate arrival time (infonnation which is oftentimes unavailable or llllreliable) and/or arrives at the bus station prior to the scheduled arrival or departure time of the bus, hoping that the bus is not significantly delayed, With knowledge of accurate arrival or departure information, adjustments can be made to one's schedule to avoid having to wait extended periods for a vehicle.
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5,223,844; U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,529 (in-vehicle navigation apparatus with map display); U.S. Pat. No. 5,299,132; U.S. Pat. No. 5,394,332 (on-board navigation system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,398,190; U.S. Pat. No. 5,432,841 (system for locating and communicating with mobile vehicles); U.S. Pat No. 5,448.479; U.S. Pat No. 5,483,454; U.S. Pat. No. 5,519,621; U.S. Pat. No. 5.587,715 (describes a satellite based tracking system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,650 (describes a tracking system with map display capabilities); U.S. Pat. No. 5,652, 707; U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,243 (on board vehicle system tracks location and expected time of arrival); U.S. Pat. No. 5,739,774 (mass transit monitoring system); U.S. Pat. No. 5, 760,742 (integrated mobile GIS/GPS/AVL with wireless messaging); U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,365 (uses satellites, vehicle tracking units, and a central computer); U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,040 (vehicle positioning data is exchanged between vehicles and a central processor having a map display); U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,919 (dispatch system tracks vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 6,191,708 (vehicle location tracking without satellites)_; U.S. Pat. No. 6,253,148 (tracks buses and communicates waiting times to radio receivers); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,101 (cellular phone that displays or sends messages upon its arrival at a predetem1ined location). Another tracking system that has been known in the art is the FlightVicw airline tracking system developed by RLM Software. Inc., which monitors the progress of an airplane and displays its location on a map on a user's computer screen. RLM receives real-time flight data (for example, position and speed) for each flight over North America. This data comes from transponders located on aircraft. The FAA collects the transponder data, adds rJclar and other information, and supplies it to RLM. This data feed is known in the aviation industry as "ASDI," which stands for Aircraft Situation Display for Industry and has been made available by the FA.A. since 1996. RLM processes this data and stores it in the FlightView database. A user can then request the stat11s of any commercial flight from the FlightView system (by providing, the airline and flight number), which sends to the user's computer screen a map showing the current position, route, and expected arrival time of the flight. Sabre, Inc., provides similar map functionality at its Virtually There web site using a system that is apparently based upon the Plight View system. As can be seen from the aforementioned prior art, the systems that give notice concerning the status of moving things are still evolving and, in some sense, the art is still in a state of infancy. Accordingly, I write and submit this application and invention for the public good to educate and further advance the technology associated with such sys~ terns.
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steps. One such representative response system of the invention, among others, would comprise a computer system programmed to perform the foregoing steps. Another such representative response method of the invention, among others, can be summarized by the following steps: receiving a notification communication with a personal communications device associated with the party from the notification system; communicating a response communication from the party's personal comnnmications device, indicating that the party has received the notification communication and is now occupied with a task associated with the notification communication; and causing the notification system to refrain from sending any further notification communications to the party's personal communications device, until detection of one or more events, indicating that the party is no longer occupied with the task and can perform another task associated with another notification communication. Another such representative response system of the invention, among others, would have a computer system programmed to perform the foregoing steps. Yet another such representative response method of the invention, among others, can be surrunarizcd by the following steps: scheduling an arrival or departure time for a mobile thing in relation to a stop location; scheduling a notification communication to a personal communications device; monitoring travel data pertaining to the mobile thing; determining that the mobile thing will be delayed in arriving or departing from the stop location; initiating a communication session with a communications device; and during the communication session, reporting a travel status of the mobile thing indicating that the mobile thing will be delayed and enabling cancellation of the scheduled notification communication. Yet another such representative response system of the invention, among others, would have a computer system programmed to perform the foregoing steps. Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the accompanying Drawings and following Detailed Description section.
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BRlEF DESCRJPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The elements of the drawings are
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not necessarily to scale relative to each other, emphasis

instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention. Furthermore, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. FIG. 1 is a block diagmm illustrating an exemplary implementation of an automated notification system, which in this case, is a computer-based system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary
50
SUMM&.RY OF THE INVENTION
Briefly described, the present invention provides response implementation of a computer system implementing the systems and methods for communications in collllection 55 functionality of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1.
with a computer-based notification system and a personal FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary communications device (e.g., telephone, pager, PDA, etc.) implementation of a computer system implementing the associated with a party. functionality of the base station manager (BS manager) of One such representative response method of the invenFIG. 1. tion, among others, can be summarized by the following 60 FIG. 4A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, steps. initiating a notification communication to a personal commu11ications device associated with a party; receiving a and operation of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1 that creates the mobile thing schedule. response communication from the party's personal communications device; and modifying a manner in which fhture FIG. 4R is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implenotification communications are implemented, based upon 65 mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1 that the response. A representative response system, among others, has mechanisms for implementing the foregoing tracks the mobile thing. Exhibit A Page 68
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FIG. SA is a functional block diagram illustrating an FJG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of the response system feedback mechanism, exemplary implementation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIG. which is optionally implemented as at least a part of the architecture, fUnctionality, and operation of the personal 1. communications device (PCD) of FIG. 1, and which inter~ PIG. SB is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemplary implementation of at least part of the architt-'Cacts with the response system feedback analyzer of any of ture, functionality, and operation of the data manager assoFIGS. 7 through 9C. ciated with the BS manager of FIG. SA. FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ FIG. SC is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of an advertisement method of doing business that mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, 10 can be optionally implemented in cmmection with any and operation of the monitoring mechanism associated with notification system. the BS manager of FIGS. SA and SB. PIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ FIG. SD is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of another adwrtisement method of doing busi~ mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, ness that can be optionally implemented in connection with and operation of the message manager associated with the 15 any notification system. BS manager of FJGS. SA and SB. FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary mentation of yet another advertisement method of doing implementation of the response system of FIG. 1, which has business that can be optionally implemented in connection the response system feedback mechanism and the response with any notification system. system feedback analyzer. 2 FIG.14A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ FJG. 7A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ mentation of a first stop location detennination system (and mentation of a response system feedback analyzer, which is method; system and method are based upon feedback optionally implemented as at least part of the architechire, regarding the location of the PCD and! or user) that can be functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FJGS. 1 optionally implemented in connection with any notification and 3. 25 system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, FIG. 78 is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary fimctionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, and 3. which is optionally implemented as at least part of the FIG. l4B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ architecture, functionality, and operation of the RS manager mentation of a second stop location detem1ination system of FIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified party causes a 30 (and method; system and method are based upon feedback telecommunications connection to be made between the regarding the location of the PCD and! or user) that can be notified party and a party associated with a tracked MT that optionally implemented in connection with any notification will make a pickup or delivery at a stop location. system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, FlG. 7C is a flow chart illustrating yet another exemplary :fimctionality, and operation of the I3S manager of FIGS. 1 implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, 35 and 3. which is optionally implemented as at least part of the PIG. 15A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplruy imple~ architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager mentation of a third stop location detennination system (and of FIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified party is used method; system and method are based upon timing criteria) to change one or more tasks associated with a pickup or deJivcryof an item or service associated with a stop location. 40 that can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, fOr example, as at least part of the FIG. 7D is a flow chart illustrating still another exemplary architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, of FIGS. 1 and 3. which is optionally implemented as at least part of the FIG. 15B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impie~ architecture, functionality, and operation of !hens manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified party is used 45 mentation of a fourth stop location determination system (and method; system and method are based upon timing to select one of a plurality of times for a pickup or delivery criteria) that can be optionally implemented in connection of an item or service associated with a stop location. with any notification system, for example, as at least part of FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary the architecture, functionalily, and operation of the BS implementation of a response system feedback analyzer of the present invention, which is optionaily implemented as at so manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impie~ least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of mentation of a secure notification messaging system (and the BS manager of PIGS. 1 and 3. method) that can be optionally implemented in cmmection FIG. 9A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implewith any notification system, fix example, as at least part of mentation of the modify step in the response system feedback analyzer of FIG. 8, which is optionally implemented as 55 the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation FJG. 16A shows a possible screen message that can be of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. shown on a notified PCD during a notification commlUlica~ FIG. 9B is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary 1ion lOr authentication purposes. implementation of the modifY step in the response system FIG. 17A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ feedback analyzer of FJG. 8, which is optionally imple~ 60 mented as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and mentation of a f1rst mobile thing determination system (and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. method; system and method are based upon pickup and FIG. 9C is a flow chart illustrating yet another exemplary dropoff locations that are conununicated to the notification implementation of the modifY step in the response system system) that can be optionally implemented in connection feedback analyzer of FIG. 8, which is optionally imple~ 65 with any notification system, for example. as at least part of mented as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. manager of FIGS. 1 and 3.
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FIG. 17B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a second mobile thing determination system (and method system and method are based upon pickup and dropoff locations that are communicated to the notiflcation system) that can be optionally implemented in connection witl1 any notification system, fOr example, as at least part of
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FIG. 20C is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a third system (and method) for monitoring travel of MTs that are PCDs and conunun:icating notifications and responses an1ong the PCDs. This system can be optionally implemented in cmmection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 21 is an illustration of an exemplary system with various PCDs being tracked, communicating notifications to other PCDs, and receiving responses from the other PCDs, all by way of a base station control unit. FIG. 22 is an illustration of an exemplary system with a PCD in the fonn of a first navigation system (a) tracking its location, (b) communicating a notification to another PCD in the form of a second navigation system, and (c) receiving a response from the second navigation system, either indirectly by way of a base station control unit or directly from navigation system to navigation system. FIG. 23 is an illustration of a possible architecture for implementing the direct communications configuration between a tracked PCD in the form of an in-vehicle navigation system and one or more other PCDs. FIG. 24 is a continuation of the example in FIG. 23 and shows implementation of response requests and failure states. FIGS. 25A through 25D illustrdte examples of possible failure states the can be shown on the screen of the tracked PCD. FIG. 26 is an illustratio11 of an embodiment of a stop list generation system that may be used in connection with a delivery vehicle. A stop list is compiled based upon whether or not a stop requires a response and whether or not a response has been received from such stops that require one. FIG. 27 is an illustration of an embodiment of a stop list generation system that may be used in connection with a delivery vehicle. A notified party is given a predetermined time period to respond until a failure state is reached. The existence of failure states (No Responses) and confirmations are communicated to the PCD associated with the delivery vehicle. FIG. 28 is an illustration of an embodiment of a stop list generation system that may be used in COIUlection with a delivery vehicle. A delivery vehicle driver can select or otherwise indicate which of the confinned notified parties will be visited by the delivery vehicle. FIG. 29 is an illustration of an embodiment of a stop list generation system that may be used in connection with a delivery vehicle. The PCD associated with the delivery vehicle and driver communicates with the BSCU in order to detennine whether or not a response pertaining to a stop has been received. FIG. 30 is an illustration of an embodiment that can be implemented at the BSCU or MTCU showing implementation of failure states in connection with responses and nonresponses to notification communications in the context of a delivery vehicle. FIG. 31 i::; an illustmtion of another embodiment that can be implemented at the BSCU or MTCU showing implementation of failure states in coiUlection with responses and nonresponses to notification communications in the context of a delivery vehicle. FIG. 32 is an illustration of an embodiment of route data and corresponding driver display data that can be maintained and implemented in COIUlection with a delivery or pickup service.
the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS

manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG.l7C is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a third mobile thing determiJlation system (and 10 method; system and method are based upon the detected
location of the PCD and/or user) that can be optionally

implemented in connection with any notification system, for
example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality,

and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 17]) is a ftm.v chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a fourth mobile thing determination system (and method; system and method arc based upon the detected location of the PCD and/or user) that can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecmre, fllllctionality, and operation of the BS manager of FJGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 18 is a flow chart il1ustrating an exemplary implementation of a combined mobile-thing-to-location (MTTL) and device-to-location (DTL) notification system (and method) that can be optionally implemented in coiUlection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 19A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a first system (and method) for making more accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predicament data. This system can be optionally implemented in coiUlection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, ftmctionality, and operation of the BS manager of PIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 19B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation ofa second system (and method) for making more accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predicament data. This system can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 19C is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a third system (and method) for making more accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predicament data. This system can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, fllllctionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 20A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a first system (and method) for monitoring travel of MTs that are PCDs and communicating norifications and responses among the PCDs. This system can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the I3S manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 208 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a second system (and method) for monitoring travel of MTs that are PCDs and communicating notifications and responses among the PCDs. This system can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, fllllctionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3.
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FIG. 33 shows an example of a possible user interface
screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in COIUlection with the response systems (and methods).
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bus transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,176 (for a public bus transit system); application Ser. No, 09/163,535, filed on Sep. 30, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,739 (for a public transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,940 (tracking system .for buses; notice of impending arrival is described); U.S. Pat. No. 5,808,565 (GPS triggered automatic enunciator for public transportation vehicles that notifies of a stop based upon the location of the vehicle); U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,974 (apparatus carried by a user to notifY of arrival so user does not miss stop); U.S. Pat. No. 5,987,377 (dispatch system that deter mines expected time of arrival and indicates to dispatcher when a vehicle will be late); US. Pat. No. 6,124,810 (vehicle apparatus determines when vehicle has arrived or departed from a planned or unplanned stop and communicates such information to a central facility); U.S. Pat. No. 6,137,425 (waiting time prediction system for a public transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6, 17R,378 (a vehicle naviga tion system where a start call, such as by telephone, is made); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,184,802 (system for informing userS when a next vehicle \Vill arrive at their boarding site). All of the aforementioned patents or applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The inventions that are claimed in this document can be implemented and practict.'<i in the systems described in tl1e foregoing patents. Furthermore, a nonexhaustive list of examples of, what appear to be tracking systems, are as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 5,014,206; U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,185; U.S. Pat. No. 5,155,689; U.S. Pat. No. 5,168,451 (transit system for dispatching vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 5,223,844; U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,529 (in-vehicle navigation apparatus with map display); U.S. Pat. No. 5,299,!32; U.S. Pat. No. 5,394,332 (on-board navigation system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,398,190; U.S. Pat. No. 5,432,841 (system for locating and communicating with mobile vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 5,448,479; U.S. Pat. No. 5,483,454; U.S. Pat. No. 5.519,621; U.S. Pat. No. 5,587,715 (describes a satellite based tracking system); U.S. Pat No. 5,594,650 (describes a tracking system with map display capabilities); U.S. Pat, No. 5,652,707; US. Pat. No. 5,724, 243 (on board vehicle system tracks location and expected time of arrival); U.S. Pat. No. 5,739,774 (mass transit monitoring system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,760,742 (integrated mobile GIS/GPS/AVL with wireless messaging); U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,365 (uses satellites, vehicle tracking units, and a central computer); U,S. Pat. No. 5,922,040 (vehicle posi tioning data is exchanged between vehicles and a central processor having a map display); U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,919 (dispatch system tracks vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 6,191,708 (vehicle location tracking without satellites); U.S. Pat. No. 6,253,148 (tracks buses and communicates waiting times to radio receivers); and U.S. Pat. No, 6,360,101 (cellular phone that displays or sends messages upon its arrival at a predetemiined location). All of the..o;e mentioned patents or appli cations are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The inventions that are claimed in this document can be implemented and prdcticed in the systems described in these mentioned patents. The claimed systems (and methods) of the invention can be implemented in many other known notification systems, messaging systems, or tracking systems, that notify a party of travel status associated with one or more moving things and that are not specifically referenced, shown, or described in this document for reasons of simplicity. As a nonlimiting example, FJG. 1 depicts a notification system 10 illustrating a possible context, among others, in which the invention maybe implemented. As shown by FIG. 1, the notification system 10 has a tracldng aspect and a notification aspect.

screen that can be generated by the GUT of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 35 shows an example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in connection \Vith the response systems (and methods).
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screen that can be generated by the GUT of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods).
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screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used 15 in connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 38 shows an example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the GU1 of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 39 shows an example of a possible user interface screen thai can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used 20 in connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 40 shows an example of an email that can be generated and sent by the BSCU 40 of PIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and method.~). FIG. 41 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary 25 implementation of a computer-based notification failure detection system implemented in connection with a notified
PCD.
FIG. 42 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of notification f3ilure detection software of FIG. 41.
30
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
35 A. Notification System 'Jbe systems and methods of this patent application can be implemented in connection with any type of notification service or system, messaging system, infOrmation system, data communications system, or tracking system, that noti- 40 fies a party of travel status associated with one or more moving things (all referred to herein as "notification system"). 'lhc notification system may or may not have a tracking subsystem that actually directly or indirectly tracks the mobile things (MTs), but has access to information or 45 data, perhaps from a tracking system(s) or data source, that can be used by it to monitor travel of the MTs. There arc a number of such notification, messaging, and tracking systems that are known in the art. As mentioned in the Background, Mr. Martin Kelly Jones so has been an active pioneering inventor in this area and has filed applications for patent on various notification systems, a few of which, are as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,020; U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,444; U.S. Pat. No. 5,623,260; U.S. Pat. No. 5,647,010; U.S. Pat. No. 5,648,770; U.S. Pat. No. 5,657,010; 55 U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,543; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,020; U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,936; U.S. Pat. No. 6,317,060; U.S. Pat. No. 6,363.323; U.S. Pat. No. 6,363,254; U.S. Pat. No. 6,411,891; U.S. Pat. No. 6,415,207; U.S. Pat. No. 6,492,912; U.S. Pat. No. 6,510,383; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,618,668. All of the 60 foregoing patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The inventions that are claimed near the end of this document can be implemented and practiced in the systems described in the foregoing patents, as will be clear from the discussion that follows. 65 A noncxhaustive list of other examples of notification systems is as follows; U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,159 (for a public
Exhibit A
Page 71
US 7,119,716 B2
11
As depicted in fiG. 1, an MT control unit (MTCU) 15 is disposed on an MT 17, which is capable of transporting the MTCU 15 over various distances. For example, MT 17 can be any movable object or thing, including but not limited to, a motor vehicle, such as an automobile, motorcycle, truck, bus, limousine, or taxicab, a bicycle, an aircraft such as an airplane, helicopter, balloon, or rocket, a train, a water vehicle such as a cruise ship, cargo ship, or other boat/ship, a package, a human being, an animal, an electronic email or transmission, an amusement park vehicle, or any other thing capable of being moved across or through the Earth's surface and/or atmosphere. T11e notification service can be implemented in connection with any vehicle 17 for delivering items to a destination or for picklng up items at a destination. Items can include any of many various types of packages or goods to be delivered or picked up, fOr example but not limited to, mail, pizza, beverages, shipping vessels, containers, produce, etc. Furthermore, items can also include persons to be picked up or delivered, such as when a bus picks up and/or delivers passengers at different bus stops or such as when an airplane picks up and/or delivers passengers at airports. Although not nect!ssary for implementation, the MT 17 can travel along a predetermined route or modiflable route in making its deliveries, and the MT 17 may make one or more stops along its route in order to deliver or pick up different items at different locations. The notification service can also be implemented in connection with any &ervices to be delivered, or performed at or ncar, a destination. The notification service can be implemented in co1mection with the following nonlimiting list of examples: maid service, pest control, telephone repair or installation, television repair, cable repair or installation, garbage pickup, yard maintenance, pool mahltenancc, power meter maintenance/reading, etc. B. Mobile Thing Control Unit (MTCU) In the preferred embodiment, ~ sensor 18 within MTCU 15 is configured to sense signals to help determine and/or determine the location of the sensor 18 relative to a prede~ termined reference point. In the preferred embodiment, sensor 18 is a global positioning system (GPS) sensor(s), although other types of positioning systems (having components that are local to and/or remote from the MTCU 15) and/or sensors are also possible. For example, other types of positioning systems that may be used include, but are not limited to, GLONASS, LORAN, Shoran, Decca, TACAN, radar, traffic system monitoring, a system for monitoring vehicle stops along a route, or any other of numerous possible tracking systems or combinations thereof. It is also possible to indirectly monitor the location of the MT 17 by monitoring or tracking pickup or delivery of people, prod~ ucts, packages, or things that are traru;portcd by the MT 17. The GPS sensor 18 of the preferred embodiment is configured to receive signals 21 from a plurality of GPS satellites 23, and as known in the art, sensor 18 is designed to analyze signals 21 in order to determine the sensor's location or coordinate values relative to a predetermined reference point. For example, in the preferred embodiment where sensor 18 is a GPS sensor, the sensor 18 determines the sensor's location values relative to the Earth's 7.ero degree latitude and zero degree longitude reference point, which is located at the intersection of the Equator and the Prime Meridian. U.S. Pat. No. 5,781,156 entitled, "GPS Receiver and Method for Processing GPS Signals" and filed on Apr. 23. 1997 by Krasner, which is incorporated herein by reference, discusses a sensor for the processing of GPS
12
signals 21 received from GPS satellites 23 in order to determine the sensor's location values. Since the sensor 18 is located within MTCU 15, the location values determined by t11e sensor 18 are assumed to match the location values of 5 the MT 17 and the MTCU 15. A location value can be any value or set of values that may be used to determine a location of a point on the Earth or within the Earth's atmosphere. This value may be a coordinate value (i.e., grid value), polar value, vector value, 10 time-distance value, or any other type of value or values known in the art for indicating locations of points. In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 may determine MT location infonnation and merely transmit the position information to the MT 17. For example, 15 radar could be used to remotely track the MT 17 and then the radar system could be designed to convey MT position information to the MT 17 (and/or the base station control mtit (BSCU) 40, which will be described in detail hereinafter). In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 20 may be the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which collects transponder data from airplanes, adds radar and other infonnation, and makes the resultant data available for tracking purposes. This data feed is known in the aviation 25 industry as "ASDI," which stands for Aircraft Situation Display for Industry. This data feed can be accessed by the BSCU 40 (and/or the MTCU 15). In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 may be associated with a computer system server commu30 nicativcly coupled lo the Internet that makes location infor~ mation pertaining to the MT 17 available to the BSCU 40 and/or to the MTCU 15 over the Internet. In such embodiments, it is also possible for the BSCU 40 to communicate the server's unifom1 resource locator (URL) to the notified .15 PCD 75, which can be equipped with a web browser, so that location information pertaining to the tracked MT 17 (as well as the PCD 75) can be accessed by the notified PCD 75 from the server. In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 4D may be a tracking system that tracks a vehicle's progress along a predetennined route based upon its anival at and/or departure from stops along the route. Ref(ming back to FIG. 1, sensor 18 is designed to transmit a signal 27 to MT manager 29 indicating the .MT' s current 45 location values. MT manager 29 is configured to receive signal27 and to monitor the location of the MT 17 over time by processing multiple signals 27. The MT manager 29 can be implemented in softv.:are, hardware, or a combination thereof. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated by way 50 of example in FIG, 2, the MT manager 29 along with its associated methodology is implemented in software and stored in computer memory 30a of a computer system 31a. Note that the MT manager 29 can be stored and transported on any computer~readable medlum for use by or in 55 connection wit11 an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system, processor~ containing system, or other system that can fetch the instructions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device and execute the instructions. In the context of this 60 document, a "computer-readable medium" can be any means that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. 1be computer readable medium can he, for example hut not 65 limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples (a nonexhaus-
Exhibit A
Page 72
US 7,119,716 B2
13
14
tive list) of the computer-readable medium would include time value of the clock 38a versus the stored time value for the following: an electrical connection (electronic) having the start of the route. Alternatively, the clock 38a can be one or more wires, a portable computer diskette (magnetic), designed as a counter that begins timing or counting in a random access memory (RAM) (magnetic), a read~only response to a start signal transmitted by the MT manager 29. memory (ROM) (magnetic), an erasable programmable Therefore, the MT manager 29 transmits the start signal rcad-onJy memory (EPROM or Flash memory) (magnetic), when the MT 17 starts the route, and thereafter, the MT an optical fiber (optical), and a portable compact disc manager 29 can determine the amount of time that has read-only memory (CDROM) (optical). Note that the comlapsed since the start of the route by analyzing the value of puter-readable medium could even be paper or another the clock 38a. Other devices and/or methodologies may be suitable medium upon which the program is printed, as the 10 employed to determine the amount of time that has lapsed program can be electronically captured, via for instance since the start of the route. optical scanning of the paper or other medium, then comAs the MT 17 travels along the predetermined route of piled, interpreted or otherwise processed in a suitable mantravel, the MT manager 29 is configured to detennine the ner if necessary, and then stored in a computer memory. As MT's current position by analyzing the location values from an example, the MT manager 29 may be magnetically stored 15 the sensor 18. Furthennore, as the MT 17 travels, the MT 17 passes the points or locations along the route that are defined and transported on a conventional portable computer diskette. in the MT schedule 39a. Tbe MT manager 29 is designed to An exemplary embodiment of the computer system 3Ja of compare the current location values of the MT 17 (i.e., of the FIG. 2 comprises one or more conventional processing sensor 18) with the location values defined by the MT elements 32a, such as microprocessors, digital signal pro- 20 schedule 39a in order to determine which entry in the MT schedule 39a corresponds with the current location of the cessors (DSPs), or other suitable processing meru1s, that commtmicate to and drive the other elements within the MT 17. Jn the preferred embodiment, the entry that corresystem 31a via a local interface 33a, which can include one :>.ponds with the current location of the MT 17 is the entry having location values most closely matching the location or more buses. Furthermore, an input device(s) 34a, for example, a keyboard, mouse, or trackball, can be used to 25 values currently supplied by the sensor 18. In other words, the corresponding entry includes location values representinput data from a user of the system 31a, and screen ing the location that is closest to the location of the MT 17. display(s) 35a or a printer(s) 36a can be used to output data Th.is entry will be referred to hereinafter as the "correspond~ to the user. A nonvolatile disk storage mechanism 37a can be connected to the local interface 33a to transfer data to and ing entry." After determining which entry corresponds with the curfrom a nonvolatile disk (e.g., magnetic, optical, etc.). It 30 rent location of the MT 17, the MT manager 29 is designed should be noted that input device 34a. display 35a, printer 36a, and disk storage mechanism 37a are optional and are to determine whether the MT 17 is olf schedule or on not a part of the preferred embodiment, although other schedule. The MT 17 is off schedule if the amount of time that has lapsed since the start of the route differs fmm an embodiments may include these features. TI1e MT manager 29 is preferably configured to maintain 35 estimated lapsed time by a prcdctennincd amount of time. In the prefCrred embodiment, the estimated lapsed time is a predefined MT schedule 39a within memory 30a. The represented by the time value in the corresponding entry of predefined MT schedule 39a corresponds with a route of travel for the MT 17. In this regard, the predefined MT the MT schedule 39a. As an example, assume for illustrative schedule 39a stored in memory 30a includes data defining purposes only that the predetermined amount oftime is five locations along the MT's intended route of travel. Further~ 40 minutes. If the MT manager 29 determines that the difference between the actual lapsed time since the start of the trip more, each location is associated with a particular time value indicating when the MT 17 is expected to reach the associand the estimated lapsed time (i.e., the time value in the ated location. Each time value along with its associated corresponding entry) is greater than five minutes, then the localion defines an entry in the MT schedule 39a. MT 17 is off schedule. Otherwise the MT 17 is on schedule. Furthermore, if the MT 17 is ofl' schedule, then the MT In the preferred embodiment, the time value corresponds 45 to the estimated amount of time that should lapse behveen manager 29 is also designed to determine whether the MT 17 the time that the MT 17 starts its intended route and the time is early or late. If the actual time lapsed since the start of the that the MT 17 reaches the associated location along the trip is greater than the estimated lapsed time, then the MT 17 is late. If the actual time lapsed since the start of the trip is route. However, other time values may be used. For example, the time of day that the MT 17 is expected to reach so less than the estimated lapsed time, then the MT 17 is early. the associated location may be used. Any time value that Alternatively, the MT manager 29 can be configured to indicates \Vhen the MT 17 is expected to reach the associated select the corresponding entry in the predefined schedule location is sufficient. However, for illustrative purposes, the 39a via comparison of time values instead of location system will be discussed hereinafter assuming that the time values. In this regard, the MT manager 29 can be conflgured values in the entries of the MT schedule 39a conform to the 55 to compare the current time value indicated by the clock 38a preferred embodiment (i.e., that the time values represent the (e.g., the lapsed time since the start of t11e route) with the ammmt of time that should lapse between the time that the time values in the entries of the MT schedule 39a. 1be corresponding entry is then the entry in MT schedule 39a MT 17 starts its intended route and the time that the MT 17 reaches the associated location along the route). having the estimated time value that differs the least with the Tile MT manager 29 is configured to monitor the amount 60 actual time value indicated by clock 38a. of time that lapses as the MT 17 travels along the MT's In this sihmtion, the MT manager 29 compares the current route. For example, the computer system 31a can include a location values from sensor 18 with the location values clock 38a that indicates the time of day. 1n this situation, the associated with the corresponding entry of the MT schedule MT manager 29 is configured to store the time value of the 39a in order to detennine whether or not the MT 17 is on clock 38a when the MT 17 begins the route. Therefore, the 65 schedule. If the location values differ by more than a MT manager 29 can determine the amount of time that has predefined threshold value, then the MT 17 is off schedule. lapsed since the start of the route by comparing the current Othenvise, the MT 17 is on schedule. Furthermore, if the
Exhibit A Page 73
US 7,119,716 B2
15
actual location of the MT 17 (as defined by the current location values from sensor 18) is further along the route of travel than the location associated with the corresponding entry (as defined by the location values in the corresponding entry), then the MT 17 is early. If the location associated with the corresponding entry (as defmed by the location values in the corresponding entry) is further along the route of travel than the actual location of the MT 17 (as defmed by the current location values from sensor 18), then the MT 17 is late. In response to a determination by the MT manager 29 that the MT 17 is off schedule, the MT manager 29 is designed to transmit a status message to base station control Wlit 40 (BSCU; FIG. 1; essentially, the host computer), which is remotely located from the MT 17. The status message preferably indicates that MT 17 is off schedule and indicates the amount that MT 17 is off schedule. U.S. Pat. No. 6,363.254 entitled, "System and Method for Enciphering and Communicating Vehicle Tracking Information," describes a system and method for transmitting messages to BSCU 40. The fixegoing document is incorporated herein by reference. C. Base Station Control Unit (BSCU) BSCU 40 preferably, although not necessarily, includes a base station (BS) manager 41 designed to monitor the travel of each MT 17 associated with the notification system 10. In the preferred embodiment, although not limited to this implementation, 1mlike the MTCU 15, the BSCU 40 is non~mobile (although it could be in some embodiments). As an example, the BSCU 40 can be located in a central office of a telephone company. TI1e BS man<Jger 41 can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof. In the preferred emhodi~ ment, as illustrated by way of example in F1G. 3, the BS manager 41 along with its associated methodology is imple mented in software and stored in computer memory JOb of a computer system 31b. The computer system Jlb can be similar to computer system Jla, as can be seen by compar ing FIG. 2 to FIG. J.1n this regard, the computer system31b may include memory JOb for storing the BS manager 41, and the computer system 31b may also include processing element J2b for executing software, local interface J3b for coru1ccting the various components, input device(s) 346 (e.g., mouse, keyboard, etc.), display(s) 356, printer(s) J6b, and nonvolatile storage device(s) 37b. In the preferred embodiment, transceiver (TX/RX) device(s) 52, 72 include one or more suitable network interfaces that allow the system 31b to conununicate data in connection with network 55 (FIG. 1).
D. Transmission of a Status Message 1n order to transmit the status message to the BSCU 40, the rvrr manager 29 is configured to transmit the status
16
the communications device 44, such as the mobile identifi~ cation munber (MIN) or electronic serial number (ESN), transmitted over a data channel of the cellular network 48. Alternatively, the status message can be appended to a 5 feature request transmitted over the data channel. As examples, U.S. Pat. No. 5,771,445 entitled, "Data Messag~ ing in a Communications Network using a Feah1re Request," filed on Dec. 15, 1995, by Kennedy, 1II, et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,546,444 entitled, "Methods and Apparatus for Comw 10 municating Data Via a Cellular Network Control Channel" filed on 1-1ar. 11, 1994, by Roach, Jr., et al., which are both incorporated herein by reference, discuss the transmission of travel data over a data or control channel associated with the cellular network 48 in further detaiL Also. see U.S. Pat. No. 15 5,526,401, which is incorporated herein by reference and which describes a system for communications over a wire~ less network as well as text messaging to personal pagers. Also, see U,S. Pat. No. 5,544,225, which is incorporated herein by reference and which describes a system for com 20 munications over a wireless network as well as communi~ cation of the location or status information of a mobile item. In order to transmit the status message through a data channel by manipulating identifiers of the communications device 44, the MIN of the communications device 44 is 25 altered to include the status message, but the ESN remains fixed to be used as an identifier of the communications device 44. Therefore, after transmitting the identifiers through the data channel, the communications device 44 can be identified by tl1e ESN, and the stah1s message can be 30 determined from the MIN. Alternatively, the ESN of communications device 44 can be altered while the MJN is kept constant. It should be understood that the invention contemplates modification of the MIN, ESN, both the MIN and ESN, or other identifiers of the communications device 44 to 35 accomplish the dual task of transmitting status messages and identifying the communications device 44. Alternatively or in combination with the manipulation of the identifiers of the communications device 44, the status message can be communicated through the data channel by 40 appending the status message to feature requests that are transmitted through the data channel. Tn this regard, most feature requests are generated by automatically or manually dialing the star key ("*") followed by a two-digjt feature request identification code, and 29 digits of duta, Therefore, 45 for each feature request generated, 29 digits of data pertain~ ing to the status message can be appended to the two~digit fcahJre request identification code and sent over the data channel of the wireless cellular network 48. Other embodiments may transmit different amounts of data following the so feature request. By utilizing the manipulation of identifiers or the appendage of travel data to feature requests, less data is transmitted through the voice channels of the cellular network 48, thereby reducing the cost of transmitting data through the cellular network 48. 55 In order for successful communication to exist between MT manager 29 and BS manager 41, both managers 29 and 41 should be aware ofthe communications protocol utilized. Therefore, it is desirable for the BS manager 41 or the MT manager 29 to initially transmit an instmction via the data 60 channel of the cellular network 48 to the other manager 29 or 41 indicating the protocol to he utilized, Thereafter, the MT manager 29 transmits messages to the BS manager 41 via the selected protocol. Cellular network 48 is designed to transmit the status 65 message to a communications device 52 (FlG. 1) at the BSCU 40. Although not necessary for implementation, cellular network 48 is preferably designed to transmit to the
message, via signal4J (FIG.l), to a comnnmications device 44, which is capable of transmining and receiving data to and from devices outside ofMT 17. In this regard, cornmu~ nications device 44 is preferably, although not necessary, a cellular modem configured to transmit and receive wireless signals to and from a cellular network 48 (FIG. 1). 'TI1e communications device 44 can transmit the status message over the voice channels associated with the cellular network 48, as is done by most cellular modems of the prior art. However, in order to reduce the cost associated with transmitting the travel data through the cellular network 48, the status message may be communicated through the eel~ lular network 48 via a data or control channel. In this regard, the status message can be encoded by altering identifiers of
Exhibit A Page 74
US 7,119,716 B2
17
communications device 52 via a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 55. In this regard, PSTN 55 establishes a link between conummications device 52 and cellular network 48, whereby cellular network 48 and communications device 52 can communicate via signals 6J and 65, which are transmitted over land-line connections in the preferred embodiment. Therefore, communications device 52 is preferably designed as or to include a PSTN modem capable of communicating siglldls 65 between BS manager 41 and PSTN network 55.
18
the MT manager 29, begins monitoring the amount of time lapsed since the start of the route. In the preferred embodiment, the base station schedule 39b stored in memory 30b matches the rvrr schedule 39a 5 stored in memory 30a, although variations in the two predefined schedules 39a and 39b are possible. Furthermore, the BS manager 41 is configured to retrieve an entry, the "corresponding entry," in the base f.'tation schedule 39b corresponding with the amount of time lapsed since the MT 10 17 began travelling its route. In this regard, the BS manager 41 compares the amount of time that has lapsed since the MT Although the preferred embodiment utilizes a cellular 17 began its route (as dctcnnincd from the clock 38b at the network 48 and a PSTN network 55 to communicate travel BSCU 40) with the time values in the base station scl1edule data to BS manager 41, one ordinarily ski11ed in the art 39b. The corresponding entry in the base station schedule should realize that other configurations are possible. For 15 39b is the entry having the time value differing the least with example, communications device 52 can be configured as a the value indicated by the clock 38b (i.e., the time value cellular modem capable of communicating signals directly indicating the amount of time that has lapsed since the MT with cellular network 48. Alternatively, utili:r. ation of com 17 began its route). munications networks 48 and 55 can be completely circumThe BS manager 41 assumes that the MT 17 is on vented by con.flguring the communications device 44 to 20 schedule, tmlcss the BS manager 41 has received a recent communicate directly with communications device 52, for status message from the MT manager 29. As used herein, a example. Any embodiment capable of communicating data "recent status message" is the most recent status message between MT manager 29 and BS manager 4.1 should be that has been received by the BS manager 41 within a suitable. predetermined time. For example, a recent status message 1t should be noted that by tnmsmitting a status message 25 could be the latest status message received within the last only when the MT 17 is o.ff schedule reduces the cost of five minutes, or at the start of a route, or some other suitable operating the notification system 10. In this regard, com time frame. D1erefore, if the BS manager 41 has not munication through a cellular network 48 is relatively received a recent status message from the MT manager 29, expensive, and the cost is based on the amount of data then the BS manager 41 assumes that the location values in transmitted. By refraining from transmitting any data 1Tom 30 the corresponding entry of the predefmed base station schedthe MT manager 29 to the BS manager 41 when the MT 17 ule 39b indicate the current location of the MT 17. is on schedule, the amount of data transmitted through the Recalling that BS manager 41 (when employed within the cellular network 48 is reduced, thereby reducing the comcontext of notification system 10) is to transmit a notification munications cost associated with the notification system 10. message when the M.l.l7 is a predetermined proximity .from Therefore, the methodology of assuming the MT 17 is on 35 a particular location (e.g., a predefined MT stop, etc.), the schedule and of only transmitting data to the BS manager 41 BS manager 41 then compares the location values in the when the MT 17 is off schedule enables the notification corresponding entry (which represent the current location of system 10 to minimize costs. It should be noted that the the MT 17) \vith location values defining the predetermined foregoing feature is optional. proximity. Jf the location values from the corresponding 4D entry differ from the location values of the predetermined E. Base Station Manager proximity by Jess than a predetermined amount, then the BS BS manager 41 is designed to monitor the travel of the manager 41 transmits a notification message to the user. MT .17 and (when employed in the context of advance Otherwise no notification message is transmitted to the user. notification system 10) is also designed to transmit a notiAlternatively, the BS manager 41 can be configured to fication message to a user when the Mr 17 is a predeter- 45 compare time values instead of location values in order to mined proximity fi"om a particular MT destination or other determine whether a notification message should be translocation. Tbe predetermined proximity can be a particular mitted to the user. In this regard, the BS manager 41 is time or distance that the MT 17 is from the destination. If the designed to compare the time value in the corresponding MT .17 is off schedule, then the BS manager 41 is further entry with a predetennined threshold value indicating the configured to transmit a message to the user indicating that so amount of time that should lapse between the MT 17 starting the MT 17 is off schedule. its route and arriving at a location associated with the The BS manager 41 of tracking notification system 10 is predetermined proximity (e.g., a threshold value indicating how long the MT 17 should travel along its route before designed to detennine the current location of the MT 17 and to compare the current location of the MT 17 to a predefined notification should be sent to the user). If the threshold value location along the route of travel of the MT 17 in order to 55 in the corresponding entry exceeds the predetermined time determine whether notification should be sent to the user. In value, then the BS manager 41 causes a notification message this regard, like the MT manager 29, the BS manager 41 to be communicated to the user. includes a predefined schedule 39b, referred herein as the If the BS manager 41 of notification system 10 has "base station schedule 39b," in memory 30b. Furthcnnorc, received a recent status message from the MT manager 29, similar to the computer system 31a (PIG. 2), the computer 60 then the BS manager 41 determines the actual location system 31b (FIG. 3) includes a clock 39b or other type of values of the MT 17 based on the location values in the corresponding entry and the recent status message. In this counter that can be used to determine the amount of time that has lapsed since the MT 17 started traveling along the MT's regnrd, the location values in the corresponding entry reproute. When the MT 17 begins the route, the MT manager 29 resent the estimated location of the MT 17. The status preferably transmits a message to the BS manager 41 via 65 message indicates how much the MT 17 is off schedule (i.e., communications devices 44 and 52 indicating that travel on how far the MT 17 is from the estimated location). For the route is beginning. In response, the BS manager 41, like example, the status message can indicate that the MT 17 is
Exhibit A
Page 75
US 7,119,716 B2
19
20
audible, text, and/or other message that can be communifive miles off schedule. Therefore, the BS manager 41 is cated. A PCD 75 is a communications device that can be designed to calculate new location values based on the estimated location and the status message. These new locapersonally associated with a party and enable point-to-point tion values represent the actual location of the MT 17. communications between the notification system 10 and the Therefore, by using the new location values instead of the party. Nonlimiting examples of PCDs 75 are as fOllows: a values in the corresponding entry, the BS manager 41 can personal computer (PC) capable of displaying the notificadetermine whether a notification message should be sent to tion through ewmail or some other communications software, the user according to the methodology described hereina television, a wireless (e.g., cellular, satellite, etc.) or above. nonwwireless telephone, a pager, a personal data assistant, a Furthermore, instead of indicating how tar the MT 17 is 10 navigation system in a motor vehicle, a radio receiver or from the estimated location via location values, the status transceiver, or any other device capable of notifying the user message can indicate how tar the MT 17 is from the with some type of user perceptible emission. Many, although estimated location via a time value (e.g., the status message not all, PCDs 75 are transportable. Furthermore, a plurality can indicate that the Mf 17 is ten minutes late). ln this case, of communications devices 72 may exist in some applicathe BS manager 41 is designed to adjust the time value in the 15 tions, so that the BS manager 41 can simultaneously or corresponding entry to account for the MT 17 being orr substantially concurrently notify a plurality of parties having schedule. For example, if the MT 17 is early, then the time respective devices 72 o:f the impending arrival of the MT 17 value in the corresponding entry is increased a correspondat a particular MT stop. ing ammmt, and if the MT 17 is late, then the time value in Note that examples of useful PCDs 75 that can be utilized the corresponding entry is decreased a corresponding 20 to implement many of the features described in this docuamount. This adjusted time value is then compared with the ment are portable wireless telephones having image capapredetermined threshold value described hereinabove in bilities (e.g., a Sanyo Model 8100 wireless PCS vision order to determine whether notification should be sent.lfthe picture phone distributed by Sprint, a Sony Ericsson T300 adjusted time exceeds the predetermined time value, then wireless picture phone distributed by T Mobile, etc.). The the BS manager 41 causes a notification message to be 25 Wireless Access Protocol (WAP; developed by the WAP transmitted to the user. Forum; see WAP Version 2.0 specification at www.wapfoIn an alternative embodiment, the location values transmm.org, which is incorporated herein by reference in its mitted in the status message can represent the actual location entirety) can be implemented in connection with wireless of the MT 17 instead of representing how far the MT 17 is telephones in order to enable these telephones to commuoff schedule. In this embodiment, the BS manager 41 can be 30 nicate with (send data packets to and/or receive data packets designed to directly compare these location values \vith the from) computers or computcrwbased devices, such as servlocation values defining the prcdetennined proximity in ers, that are communicatively coupled to the World Wide order to determine whether notification should be sent to the Web (WWW) of the Internet (by way of their respective user. Accordingly, if tl1ese location values differ from the cellular or PCS networks). location values defining the predetermined proximity by Jess 33 Note further that the PCDs 75 can be non-standard than a predetermined amollllt, then the BS manager 41 input/output (I/0) devices that can be communicated with transmits a notification message to the user. Otherwise, no over an open network, such as the Internet, using an notification message is sent to the user. extended open network protocol, such as extended HTML, Furthermore, when the BS manager 41 determines that as is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,742,845 and 5,905,908, the MT 17 is off schedule, the BS manager 41 preferably 40 both of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by transmits an off schedule message to the user, as described reference. hereinbelow, to notify the user that the MT 17 is off Although the preferred embodiment utilizes a PSTN schedule. This message can include a variety of infonnation network 55 to communicate a notification or an off schedule including, but not limited, how much (in time or distance) the MT 17 is off schedule. However, it should he noted that 45 message to PCD 75, one ordinarily skilled in the art should reali7. that other configurations are possible. For example, communication of the off schedule message is not a necesother communications networks can be utilized or utilization sary feature. of communications networks can he completely circumM vented by configuring communications device 72 to comF. Trunsmission of Ofr Schedule and Notification Messages Once the BS manager 41 of systems 10 and 12 determines 50 municate directly with communications device 73. Any communications system capable of communicating data that a notification or an off schedule message should be sent behveen BS manager 41 and PCD 75 should be suitable. to a user, the BS manager 41 is designed to communicate the message to the user via PSTN network 55 and COJlliilllllica~ As an example, the BS manager 41 may notify the user of tions devices 72 and 73 (FIG. 1). In this regard, communl~ the impending arrival of the Mf 17 by transmitting a cations devices 72 and 73 are or include PSTN transceiver 55 distinctive ring to the user's message device. In this embodimodems capable of interfacing with and communicating ment, the PCD 75 is a telephone. A distinctive ring is a with PSTN network 55. BS manager 41 is designed to ringing cadence that is different than the standard ringing transmit the message as signal 70 to user communications cadence used to notifY the user of a telephone call. Since the device 72, which communicates the message with PTSN user can different the different ringing cadence, the user is network 55 via signal 74. PTSN netv.:ork 55 then commu- 60 aware that the telephone call corresponds to a notification nicates the message to personal communications device message from the BS manager 41 indicating that arrival of (PCD) 75, which has a receiver and a transmitter, or a the MT 17 is imminent. A system :for tmnsmitting a distiucw transceiver, denoted by block 73, in the preferred emboclitive telephone ring as the notification message is fully ment. described in U.S. Patent Application entitled, "Advance PCD 75 is configured to notify the user and communicate 65 Notification System and Method Utilizing a Distinctive a notification message, which may merely be a ring in the Telephone Ring," assigned Ser. No. 08/762,052 and filed on Dec. 9, 1996, which is incorporated herein by reference. case of a telephone or pager, optionally accompanied by an
Exhibit A Page 76
us
21
7,119,716 82
22
The MT manager 29 is then designed to compare the deviation indictor to an alarm threshold value to determine whether an alarm signal should be trarunlltted to the BS manager 41. The alarm threshold value corresponds with the 5 distance that the MT 17 can deviate from the predefined MT schedule 39a before an alarm is generated. Therefore, if the deviation indicator exceeds the alarm threshold value, the MT manager 29 transmits an alann message to the BS traffic conditions expected to be encountered during travel. manager 41 via communications devices 44 and 52. PrefHowever, in the preferred embodiment, the predefined schedules 39a and 39b are defined via a previous delivery of 10 erably the alarm message includes the current location values produced by the sensor 18 so that the travel of the rvrr the MT 17 along the same route of travel. 17 can be tracked by the BS manager 41. ln this regard, delivery vehicles 17 frequently travel the Providing an alam1 message, as described hereinabove, same routes. This is especially true for buses, for example, helps to discover when an MT 17 has been stolen or hijacked where a bus routinely travels the same route and makes the same stops. As the MT 17 is traveling the route, the MT 15 and helps law enforcement agencies to recover the Mr 17 by tracking the travel of the MT 17 once the MT 17 has been manager 29 is configured to periodically read the sensor 18 stolen. In this regard, the l'viT manager 29 automatically and to store an entry in memory 30a. The entry preferably generates an alarm message and monitors travel of the Mr includes the current location values of the MT 17 indicated 17 once the MT 17 deviates from the MT schedule 39a by by sensor 18 and the time value indicated by clock 38a (i.e., the time value indicating the amount oftime that has lapsed 20 a predetermined amount. 'Ibe a1ann message can be used by law enforcement agencies to discover when the MT 17 has since the start of the travel on the route). Therefore, when the been stolen and where the MT 17 is located, thereby helping MT 17 reaches the end of the route, the MT manager 29 has law enforcement agencies to recover the MT l7 once it has stored nwnerous entries which define the predefined MT been stolen. schedule 39a. This predefined schedule 39a may also be Because the deviation indicator is defined relative to used as the base station schedule 39b. Other methodologies 25 points along the MT's route of travel, an alarm can be may be employed to define the MT schedule 39a and/or the generated when the MT 17 deviates from the route by a base station schedule 39b. relatively small amount. For example, the MT manager 29 FIG. 4A is n flow chart depicting the operation and can be configured to transmit an alarm signal when the MT f\mctionality of the MT manager 29 in embodiments where the MT manager 29 determines the Mr schedule 39a while 30 17 deviates from its predefined route by approximately 20 feet Other distances, both less than and greater than 20 feet, traveling along the route of travel. As shown by blocks 76 may be used to trigger an alarm signal. However, it is and 77, the MT manager 29 detennines whether a sample generally desirable that a certain amount of deviation (deperiod has expired while the MT 17 is traveling on the route pending on the expected driving conditions and the precision (i.e., before the MT 17 has finished the route). The sample period is a predetennined amount of time that lapses 35 of sensor 18) be allowed so that the MT 17 can reasonably maneuver through traffic \Vithout generating false alarms. between samples, which will be discussed in more detail In addition, the alarm threshold value is selectable in the hereinbelow. Preferably, the MT clock 38a indicates preferred embodiment. Tbis value can be entered into the whether the sample period has expired. For example, when computer system 31a by a human operator at the MT 17 via the clock 38a is a counter, the sample period can be defined as a predetermined number of counts by the clock 38a. 40 input device 34a, for example. Alternatively, this vah1e can be communicated from the BS manager 41 to the MT Therefore, the MT manger 29 can determine whether the manager 29 via communications devices 44 and 52 at or sample period has expired by counting the number of around the start of the route. The alarm threshold value can increments or cycles of the clock 38a. also be hardwired into the computer ~ystem 31a with When the MT manager 29 determines that the sample period has expired, the MT manager 29 samples the current 45 switches that can be manipulated by a human operator in order to selectively change the value. Many other methodlocation values of the Mr 17 and the time value of the clock ologies known in the art may be used for selecting the value 38a. In other words, the :MT manager 29 determines the of the alarm threshold value, current location values of the Mr 17 and the current time It should be noted that in other embodiments, it may be value from the clock 38a and stores these values in the next entry of the MT schedule 39a, as depicted by blocks 78 and so desirable for the MT manager 29 to generate an alarm signal based on comparisons of the location of MT 17 to a 79. This process repeats until the MT manager 29 determines predefined geographical region instead of the route defined that the MT 17 has completed the route. Thereafter, the MT in MT schedule 39a. For example, it may desirable to define manager 29 c<Jn use the MT schedule 39a to track the lVIT's a reg1on that is 30 miles (or some other distance) from the progress on future dellvcrics that utilize the route defined by 55 start of the route (or some other particular location). Then, the MT schedule 39a. the MT manager 29 can be configured to generate an alarm H. Alarm System signal if the Mf manager 29 determines that the MT 17 is outside of this predefined region based on the signals 27 1be MT manager 29 can be configured to compare the corresponding entry and the location values supplied from received from sensor 18. Such a methodology for generating the sensor 18 in order to detennine whether an alarm signal 60 an alarm signal is particularly suitable for applications should be generated. In this regard, the Mf manager 29 where only local deliveries are expected, for example, There are various methodologies for determining whether preferably subtracts the location values in the corresponding the MT 17 is outside of the predefined region. For example, entry from the current location values of the MT 17 (as determined by the sensor 18) to produce a deviation indiin one embodiment, the l'viT manger 29 subtracts the current cator. TI1ereforc, the deviation indicator indicates how far 65 location values determined from signals 27 with the location the MT 17 has deviated from the route defined by the MT values of a particular point (e.g., the location values of the schedule 39a. start of the route, when the region is defined as any point
Exhibit A Page 77
G. Creation of the MT and Base Station Schedules It should be noted that the predefined MT schedule 39a and the predefined base station schedule 39b can be determined or defined by a variety of methodologies, For example, the predetermined schedules 39a and 39b can be estimated based on various factors, such as the types of speeds likely to be traveled by the MT 17 and the types of
US 7,119,716 B2
23
within a certain distance of the start of the route) to derive the deviation indicator. As in the preferred embodiment, if the deviation indicator has a magnitude greater than the alann threshold value, the MT manager 29 generates an alarm signal. Otherwise, no alarm signal is generated. Further note that U.S. Pat. No. 5,751,245, which is entirely incorporated herein by reference describes an alarm system that can be employe<.] when a vehicle substantially departs from a predetermined route, for the security of transported cargo.
24
BS manager 41. In the preferred embodiment, the MT schedule 39a was created and stored in the MT manager 29 as the MT 17 previously traveled along the same route. A copy of the Mf schedule 39a is preferably transferred to the BS manager 41 via any suitable methodology and stored as the base station schedule 39a. For example, the MT schedule 39a can be copied to a magnetic disk and later downloaded in memory 30b or a copy of the MT schedule 39a can be transmitted to the BS manager 41 via communications 10 devices 44 and 52. ln embodiments where the 'MT schedule 39a is not I. Alternative Embodiment of the l'viTCU previously created and stored by the MT manager 29, the In an alternative embodiment of the MTCU, the "correMT schedule 39a is preferably downloaded into both the BS sponding entry" of the MT schedule 39a can be defined as manager 41 and the MT manager 29. lt is possible to the entry having location values defining a location along the 15 download the base station schedule 39a in the BS manager route that was most recently passed by the MT 17. TI1ere41 and to transmit a copy of the base station schedule 39a fore, the MT manager 29 monitors the signals 27 from the to the MT manager 29 via communications devices 44 and sensor 18 until the MT manager 29 detennines that the MT 52 prior to the start of the route. Any methodology for 17 passed a location corresponding with one of the entries in respectively storing the MT schedule 39a and the base the MT schedule 39a. The MT manager 29 determines 20 station schedule 39b into the MT manager 29 and the BS whether the MT 17 is early or late via the techrllques manager 41 is suitable. described hereinabove using the aforementioned entry as the When the MT 17 begins travel, the MT manager 29 stores corresponding entry. the current value of the MT clock 38a and begins to monitor After determining whether to generate an almm signal the amount of time that lapses from that point until comple and/or stah1s message for the corresponding entry (and after 25 tion of the route. Furthermore, as can be seen by block 82 of generating the ulam1 signal and/or the status message, if FIG. 4B, the Mf manager 29 also transmit1> a start signal to necessary), the MT manager 29 monitors the signals 27 the base station manger 41 via communications devices 44 again for the next corresponding entry. TI1erefore, when a and 52 indicating that travel of the MT 17 is beginning. In corresponding entry is detected (i.e., when the MT manager response, the BS manager 41 begins to monitor the lapsed 29 determines that the MT 17 passed a location correspond30 time as well. ing with the location values in one of the entries of the MT In many situations, it may be desirable to begin monitorschedule 39a for the first time), the MT manager 29 analyzes ing travel of the MT 17 after the Mf 17 starts its route. This the values of the sensor 18, the clock 38a, and the correis particularly true when unpredictable delays usually occur sponding entry to determine whether an alann signal and/or close to the staring point of the route. For example, when the status message should be generated. Thereafter, the MT 35 MT 17 is a school bus taking children home from school, manager 29 waits until the next corresponding entry is unpredictable delays may occur close to the starting point detected before determining whether to genemte another (i.e., at the school) where traffic is often congested. Therestatus message. Therefore, the MT manager 29 determines fore, instead of transmitting a start signal to the BS manager whether a status message should be conumm.icated to the BS 41 when the Mf 17 begins traveling, the MT manager 29 manager 41 each tirne the MT 17 passes a location corre40 waits for a predetermined time period or until the MT 17 has sponding with the location values in one ofthe entries of the traveled a predetennined distance from the starting point MT schedule 39a, and the MT manager 29 refrains from before transmitting the start signal. For example, the :MT communicating status messages as the MT 17 travels manager 29 can monitor the travel of the MT 17 from the between locations defined by the data in the MT schedule starting point via the sensor 18 and transmit the st-art signal 39a. In other words, the only time the MT manager 28 45 once the MT manager 29 determines that the MT has transmits a status message is when the MT 17 is passing a traveled one-eighth of a mile from the starting point. In this location corresponding with one of the entries in the MT regard, location values representing a predetermined point schedule 39a or a short time thereafter. along the route of travel and one-eighth of a mile from the However, since it is possible for the MT 17 not to pass any starting point can be stored in the MT manager 29. When the of the locations defined in the predefined schedule when the 50 MT manager 29 determines that the Mf 17 passes this point, MT 17 deviates from the route (e.g., when the MT 17 is the MT manager 29 determines that the MT 29 has traveled stolen), the MT manager 29 preferably determines whether more than one-eighth of a mile and transmits the start signal. to communicate an alarm signal periodically rather than Preferably, the predetermined schedules 39a and 39b both waiting fOr one of the locations defined by the MT manager use the point where the MT manager 29 transmits the stan 29 to be passed. 55 signal as the starting point for the route. Therefore, the J. Overall Notification System Operation distances and times stored in the predetermined schedules A possible implementation of use and operation of the 39a and 39b are relative to the predetermined location where notification system 10 and associated methodology are MT manager 29 transmits the start signal instead of the described hereafter. For illustrative purposes only, assume actual starting point of the route. However, this is not a that the MT 17 is to travel a predetermined route to a 60 necessary feature, and the location values and time values destination where the MT 17 is to pick up or deliver an item. stored in the predetermined schedules 39a and 39b may be For example, assume that the MT 17 is a bus that is to travel relative to other points both along the route of travel and to a bus stop to pick up a passenger and that this passenger outside of the route of travel. is to receive a notification signal when the MT 17 is ten As the MT 17 travels, GPS satellites 23 transmit wireless 65 signals 21 to sensor 18 that can be analyzed through techminutes from the bus stop. Initially, the MT schedule 39a is stored in the MT niques well known in the art to determine a position (i.e., manager 29 and the base station schedule 39a is stored in the current location values) of the sensor 18 (and, therefore, of
Exhibit A Page 78
US 7,119,716 B2
25
the MT 17) relative to a particular reference point, as depicted by block 85 of FIG. 48. For example, in GPS systems, the intersection of the Equator and the Prime Meridian is typically used as the reference point. Sensor 18 receives the signals 21 m1d determines location values representing the position of the MT 17 relative to the reference point and transmits these values to MT manager 29. T11e MT manager 29 compares the current location values of the MT 17 with the location values in the MT schedule 39a in order to detennine which entzy in the MT schedule 39a corresponds with the current location of the MT 17, as shown by block 87 of FTG. 4B. The corresponding entzy is preferably the entry having location values that most closely match the current location values received from the sensor 18. After selecting the corresponding entry, the MT manager 29 retrieves the location values associated with the corre~ spending entry and subtracts these values from the current location values received from the sensor 18 and used by the MT manager 29 to select the corresponding entry. Referring to block 91 of FlG. 4B, the resulting value or values (referred to as the deviation indicator) indicates the MT's deviation from the MT schedule39a. As shown by block 93 of FIG. 4R, the MT manager29 then compares the deviation indicator to the alarrn threshold value. If the deviation indicator exceeds the alarm threshold value, then the MT manager 29 transmits an alarm message to the BS manager 41, as depicted by block 95 ofFTG. 4R. The alann message includes the current location of the MT 18, and the BS manager 41 tracks the location of the MT 17 based on the alarm messages transmincd from the MT manager 29. The information provided by the alarm message can be used by law enforcement agencies to track the MT 17. After determining whether an alann message should be generated, the MT manager 29 retrieves the time value associated with the corresponding entry and compares it with the time value indicated by clock 38a (i.e., the time value indicating the amount oftime elapsed since the start of the route). The MT manager 29 also retrieves a predcter~ mined threshold value indicating how much the MT 17 can deviate from the MT predefined s<;:hedule 39a before the MT 17 is considered to be off schedule. Referring to block 97 of FIG. 4B, if the difference of the foregoing time values exceeds the predetermined threshold value, then the MT manager 29 detennines that the MT 17 is off schedule. However, if the difference of the foregoing time values is less than the prcdetennined threshold value, then the MT manager 29 determines that the MT 17 is on schedule. When the MT manager 29 dctennines that the MT 17 is on schedule, the MT manager takes no further action regard~ ing the current location values received from the sensor 18. The MT manager 29 merely receives a new set of location values from the sensor 18 and analyzes the new set of values according to the methodology described herein. However, when the MT manager 29 determines that the MT 17 is off schedule, the MT manager 29 generates a status message and transmits the status message to the BS manager 41, as depicted by block 99 of FIG. 4B. In this regard, the MT manager 29 determines whether the MT 17 is early or late and how far the MT 17 is off schedule (e.g., how many minutes or miles the MT 17 is from the location specified by the location values in the correspond~ ing entry). The MT manager 29 then generates a status message including this iniOnnation and transmits the stahls message to the BS manager 41 via communications devices 44 and 52.
26
In order to reduce the number of transmissions between the MT 17 and the base station control unit 40, the MT manager 29 preferably (although not necessary) transmits the status message to the BS manager 41 only if another 5 status message has not been transmitted within a predeter mined delay period. For example, if a status message has been sent within a predetermined time period, for example, within the last five minutes, then the MT manager 29 refrains ffom sending another status message. It should be apparent 10 to one skilled in the art that other delay periods can be selected to update the location of the MT 17 at a desirable rate. Furthermore, it is possible to selectively control the delay period. For example, when the MT 17 stops to make a 15 delivery or is slowly traveling through congested areas, it may be desirable to increase the delay period to decrease the number of status messages sent to the BS manager 41. Alternatively, when the :MT 17 is traveling quickly and the location of the MT 17 is changing rapidly, it may be 20 desirable to decrease the delay period. Furthermore, when the MT 17 enters an area where no immediate deliveries or pick ups arc to made, there is no immediate need to monitor the MT 17 and the delay period can be increased. The delay periods can be predefined in memory 30a, can be controlled 25 by the operator of the MT 17, or can be controlled via signals transmitted from remote locations to the MT manager 29 (e.g., from the BS manager 41 to the MT manager 29 via communications device 44). Other methodologies for con~ trolling the delay periods are possible. Another way to reduce the number of transmissions of 30 status messages at desired times is to selectively increase the predefined amount that the MT 17 should be ali schedule before a status message is transmitted to the base station control manager 41. Similar to the changes in the delay 35 periods described above, the changes to the aforementioned predefined umount can be predefined in memory 30a, cun be controlled by the operator of the :MT 17, or can be controlled via signals transmitted from remote locations to the MT manager 29 (e.g., from BS manager 41 to MT manager 29 40 via communications device 44). The input device 34a (FIG. 2) can be used to input changes in the delay period and/or in the predefined amount that the MT should be ofr schedule before a status message is transmitted. In this regard, Lhe input device 34a may 45 include switches, buttons, a key pad, or any other device that can be manipulated by the operator of the MT 17 to input the changes. When the BS manager 41 receives a status message, the BS manager 41 stores the status message in memory 30b. If so desired, the BS manager 41 transmits a message to the user via conununications devices 72 and 73 indicating that the MT 17 is off schedule and indicating how much the MT 17 is off schedule in response to the status message. The BS manager 41 periodically determines whether a 55 notification message should be sent to the user indicating that arrival of the MT 17 at the bus stop is imminent (e.g., indicating that the MT 17ls ten minutes from the bus stop). In this regard, the notification message should be sent to the user when the MT 17 is within a predetenn:ined proximity 60 (i.e., a predetermined time or distance) from the bus stop. To determine whether the notification message should be sent, the BS manager 41 compares the location values of the current location of the MT 17 to the location values of the predetermined location (e.g., the bus stop). If the difference 65 between the location values of the current location of the MT 17 and the bus stop is greater than a threshold value, then the MT 17 is too far from the bus stop for notification to be sent
Exhibit A
Page 79
US 7,119,716 B2 27
to the user. Therefore, a notification message is not generated. However, if the difference between the location values of the current location of the MT 17 and the bus stop is less than the threshold value, then a notification message is transmitted to the user via communications devices 72 and 73, unless a similar notification message (i.e., a message indicating that the MT 17 is off schedule by the same amount) associated with the bus stop has previously been sent to the user. 1n determining the current location of the MT 17, the BS manager 41 assumes that the MT 17 is on schedule unless a recent status message has been received. Therefore, the MT manager 41 determines which entry in the base station schedule 39b corresponds to the assumed location of the MT 17. In this regard, the MT manager 41 compares the time values in the base station schedule 39b with a lapsed time value indicating how much time has lapsed since the MT 17 started the route. The entry having a time value closest to this lapsed time value is the corresponding entry. The location values associated with the corresponding entry represent the assumed location of the MT 17. Unless a recent status message has been received, the BS manager 41 uses these location values as the current location wines to be compared against the location values of the predetermined location (e.g., the bus stop) in order to determine whether a notification mes::;age should be sent to the user. However, if a recent status message has been received, then the BS manager 41 dctennines the current location values of the MT 17 based on the recent status message and/or the location values associated with the corresponding entry. For example, if the recent status message includes location values indicating the actual location of the MT 17, then the BS manager 41 uses these values to compare \Vith the coordinate values of the predetermined location (e.g., the bus stop). However, if the status message only indicates how much the MT 17 is off schedule, then the BS manager 41 calculates the current location values of the MT 17 based on the status message and the location values associated with the corresponding entry in the base station schedule 39b. Once the current location values of the MT 17 have been determined, the RS manager 41 compares the current toeation values of the MT 17 with lhe location values of the predetermined location (e.g., the bus stop) as previously described hereinabove to detennine whether a notification signal should be transmitted to the user. 'lbe operation of the preferred embodiment has been dcscribcd hereinabove in the context where the MT manager 29 compares location values to determine the corresponding entry in the MT predefined schedule 39a. Therefore, the MT manager 29 compares the time value associated with the corresponding entry in the MT schedule 39a to determine whether or not the MT 17 is on schedule. However, it should he apparent to one skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure that time values may be compared by the MT manager 29 to determine the corresponding entry in the MT predefined schedule 39a. Jn this regard, the entry in the MT schedule 39a having a time value most closely matching the lapsed time value indicated by the clock 38a (i.e., the value indicating the amount of time lapsed since the start of the route) can be selected as the corresponding entry. As a result, the MT manager 29 determines how far the MT 17 is off schedule based on distance rather than time. For example, if the diffcrence between the current location values of the MT 17 (as dctennined by the sensor 18) and the location values associated with the corresponding entry is greater than a predetermined threshold value, then the MT 17 is offsched-
28
ulc. Otherwise, the MT 17 is on schedule. Furthermore, regardless of which embodiment is used to determine how far the MT 17 is off schedule, the I\IIT manager 29 can indicate how far the Mr 17 is off schedule via the status 5 message using either distance values, time values, or any other type of values known in the art for indicating the position of the MT 17. It should be noted that the preferred embodiment has been described hereinabove assuming that the sensor 18 is 10 capable of detennining the MT's location based on signals received from satellites 23. However, this is not a necessary feature, and any type of sensor 18 that may be used for detennining the MT' s position along the route of travel is sufficient. For example, the sensor 18 may be designed as an 15 odometer that indicates how far the MT 17 travels. Therefore, the predetermined points along the route of travel used to determine whether the MT 17 is on or off schedule can be defined in the schedules 39a and 39b relative to their distance from the starting point of the route. In other words, 20 the location values stored in the schedules 39a and 39b correspond to distance values indicating how far the predetermined points are from the starting point of the route. Therefore, the MT manager 29 can determine how far the MT 29 is from any of the predetermined points by deter25 mining how far the MT 17 has traveled ffom the starting point of the route. K. User Notification Preferences and Reports BS manager 41 is designed to receive the travel data 30 transmitted from MT manager 29 and to monitor the travel of the MT attached to the MTCU 15 by monitoring the travel of the MTCU 15.1n this regard, BS manager 41 is designed to include a data manager 67 configured to receive the travel data via signal 66 from communications device 52, as 35 depicted by FIG. SA. Data manager 67 is designed to store the travel data for each MICU 15 being monitored in a database 94, which is preferably a relational database having a nmnber of tables 68, but other databases are possible, for example, flat-file database, inverted-list database, one made 40 up of lookup tables, etc. As is well known in the art, a relational database is a database or database management system that stores information in tables--.. rows and columns of data-and conducts searches by using data in specified columns of one table to 45 find additional data in another table. In a relational database, the rows of a table represent records (collections of information about separate items) and the columns represent fields (particular attributes of a record). In conducting searches, a relational database matches information from a 50 field in one table with information in a corresponding field of another table to produce a third table that combines requested data from both tables. For example, if one table contains the fields MOBJLE.THING-ID, PACKAGE1D, and LOAD-DATE, and another contains the fields STOP. 55 TIME, MOI3ILE-TH1NG-ID, and STOP-LOCAflON, a relational database can match the MOBILE-THING-JD fields in the two tables to find such information as the possible pickup stop locations for packages transported by the MT or the delivery times (stop times) iOr all packages 60 loaded on the MT within the last day. In other words, a relational database uses matching values in two tables to relate information in one to information in the other. Although not limited to t11is configuration, in one embodiment, among others, tlle database 94 includes, among other 65 things and in general, an MT data table 68a having infor mation pertaining to the MT, such as an ID, type (package, mobile vehicle type, etc.), model, whether the thing has air
Exhibit A Page 80
US 7,119,716 B2
29
30
conditioning, etc.; a user data table 68b having infonnation make assumptions about the time necessary to travel to the regarding user preferences; a communication method data specified location. For example, if the route of the MTCU 15 is through congested areas, the monitoring mechanism 69 table 68c having information pertaining to various commu~ can assume a certain delay time for traveling certain dis nications methods that can be utilized fOr contacting a user tances, and if the route of the MTCU 15 is through less (which can be linked to the user preferences); a stop location congested areas, the monitoring mechanism 69 can assume data table 68d having infonnation pertaining to stop loca~ another delay time that is less than the delay time as:.l!med tions of MTs; an MT (Mr) travel data table 68e having information concerning travel status of MTs, an advertise~ for the congested areas. Alternatively, the monitoring rnent data table 68/ having advertisements that can be mechanism 69 can use an average of the times it has communicated to a PCD 75; a PCD data table 68g having 10 previously taken for MTs 17 to travel over the same route information pertaining to the devices 75; an authentication during other deliveries. Therefore, by comparing the travel data transmitted from rvrrcu 15 with preference data, the data table 68h having aud1entication information or indicia to be described later in tl1is docrunent, a PCD travel data monitoring mechanism 69 can determine when to send a notification message to a user. table 68i having information pertaining to travel of a tracked As depicted by blocks 88a, 88b, 88g, and 88h of FIG. SC, PCD 75, a traffic flow predicament data table 68}, a package 15 the preference data can be stored in user data table 68b of the data table 68k, a failure states data table 681, a tasks data table 68m, sub-tables of the foregoing, etc. The tables 68 database 94 (FIG. 58). As stated hereinbefore, the MT travel include related fields for linking and relating various eledata table 68e of the database 94 is preferably configured to ments in the various tables 68. store the travel data associated with each MTCU 15 in a Furthermore, in this embodiment, MTCUs are related to 20 respective entry uniquely identified with the associated MTCU 15. Accordingly, each data entry can also include the identification values in MT data table 68a, and these values preference data associated with each MTCU 15 that corre~ arc correlated with tmvel data in MT travel data table 68e. spond~ with the entry, or the preference data can be stored Trove] data can include infi.mnation such as, but not limited to, the 1\ITCU's coordinate values (i.e., the MTCU's 15 in separate entries which are correlated with corresponding location relative to a predetermined reference point), infor~ 25 MTCU entries. Once the monitoring mechanism 69 determines that a mation rt>garding deliwry status of items to be delivered, notification message should be sent to a user, the data and/or the times that the MTCU 15 reached particular manager 67 is designed to com1mmicate a message to a user locations or stops. The database 94 is configured to contain at a remote location via PSTN network 55 and communi~ all of the desirable information to monitor the status of each 30 cations devices 72 and 73 (FIG. 1). MTCU 15 associated with the notification system 10. In this regard, communications devices 72 and 73 are Referring to FIG. 58, data manager 67 is configured to include a monitoring mechanism 69. Tile functionality of preferably PSTN modems capable of communicating with monitoring mechanism 69 is depicted in FIG. SC. As shown PSTN network 55. Data manager 67 is designed to transmit the message as signal 70 to user communications device 72, by blocks 88a--88f ofFICi. SC, monitoring mechanism 69 is configured to re.ccivc travel data from MTCU 15 and to 35 which communicates the message with PTSN network 55 via signal 74. PTSN network 55 then communicates the compare the travel data with predefined preference data message to communications device 73, which is preferably stored in the database 94, particularly the user data table 68b. configured to communicate the message to a PCD 75. PCD Preference data, as used herein, is data that defines the preferred parameters indicating when to notify a user of the 75 is configured to notifY the user of the impending arrival impencling arrival of the MTCU 15 at a particular location. 40 of the MTCU 15. As mentioned, PCD 75 can be a computer capable of displaying the notification through e~mail or It can be system defined or user defined. For example, preference data can be coordinates of a desired location some other communications software. Alternatively, PCD 75 can be a telephone, a pager or any other device capable whereby a notification message is sent to a user when the coordinates of the MTCU 15 pass the coordinates of the of notifying a user. 1. User Activation desired location. In this context, the desired location defined 45 In order for data manager 67 to transmit a notification by the preference data can, for example, represent a location PCD 75, data manager 67 should be aware of certain contact that is a predctcm1incd distance from the user house, place of delivery or pickup, or other particular location. Therefore, information enabling data manager 67 to contact the PCD when the user receives the notification message, the user is 75. In this regard, data manager 67 is configured to include aware of the approximate location of the MTCU 15 or of the 50 a user data table 68b (FIG. 5) containing contact infonnation distance of the MTCU 15 from a predetermined point (i.e., pertaining to each user that is to receive a notification of the proximity of the MTCU .15 from a predetennined message from the data manager 67. In the preferred embodi~ point or location). Consequently, the user can prepare for the ment, the user table 68b is capable of uniquely identifYing arrival of the MTCU 15, since the user knows that arrival of each user of the notification system 10, and has entries that the MTCU 15 is imminent. 55 specify contact information associated with each user. Each As an alternative embodiment, the preference data can entry preferably includes a user identification number define a certain time before the MTCU 15 reaches a desti~ unique to each user that identifies the information in the nation or other particular location (i.e., a proximity of the entry as relating to a particular user. MTCU 15 from the predetermined point). In this regard, the Each entry preferably includes a value specif)'ing the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to determine the 60 medium through which the m;er has specified to be con~ location of the MTCU 15 from the travel data stored in MT tacted. For example, the value can indicate that the user is to travel data table 68e of database 94. The monitoring mecha~ be contacted through e~mail, in which case the entry should nism 69 is then designed to calculate the time it will take for also include the user e~mail address. Alternatively, the value the MTCU 15 to reach the location specified by the prefer~ can indicate that the user is to be contacted through a ence data based on the location of tl1e MTCU 15 and the 65 telephone call or a page. In these situations, the entry should location of the desired destination. In calculating the travel also include the user telephone number or pager munber. The value can also indicate multiple methods of notification. time, the monitoring mechanism 69 can be configured to
Exhibit A Page 81
us 7,119,716 82
31
For example, the value can indicate that the user is to be first
32
communicating via a modem, the message manager 82 is contacted via telephone. If there is no answer when the data corrfigured to transmit signals compatible with the user manager 67 attempts to deliver a notification message, then modem in order to prompt the user to enter the appropriate the data manager 67 can be configured to attempt notifica~ contact information. This data could be in the form of a web tion via paging. If paging fails, then the data manager 67 can 5 page transmitted through the Intemet, or the prompt could be configured to attempt notification through e-mail or other simply be messages transmitted through email or some computer oriented messaging system. Accordingly, the order other data commlUlications system. of notification media should be indicated by the data in the When the user is communicating via a PCD 75 in the form user data table 68b, and the contact information necessary of a telephone, the message manager 82 can be designed to for each method selected (e.g., the telephone number, pager 10 transmit recorded messages to the user. The user can then number, and e-mail address of the user) should also be select or enter data by transmitting touch-tone signals in included in the entry. It should be noted that various other response to the prompting messages, as is commonly known commlmications media and combinations of communicain the art. The message manager 82 may be configured to tions media can be employed. communicate with the user in other formats and media The contact information (and preference data, which will 15 knowrt in the art. be discussed in further detail hereinafter) can be manually Once the message mannger 82 receives the contact infermation from the user, the message manager 82 is designed entered or downloaded into the user data table 68h in order to activate a user for the notification system 10. In this to store the contact infOnnation as an entzy in the user data regard, a system operator can receive the contact infonnatable 68b, as depicted by block 90h of FIG. 50. When the tion (and preference data) via a telephone call or e-mail, for 20 monitoring mechanism 69 determines that a user should be example, and manually enter the infOrmation into the notinotified of an impending arrival of an MTCU 15, the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to send a notification fication system 10. command to message manager 82. The notification comHowever, in the preferred embodiment, the contact information is automatically entered into the user data table 68b mand may include travel data to be sent to the user, such as via a message manager 82, which is depicted by FIG. SB. 25 data indicating that a particular MT is a certain proximity from the destination defined by the preference data. In The func!ionality of the mes:;age manager 82 is shown in FIG. SD. The message manager 82 is configured to receive, response, the message manager 82 is designed to retrieve the via communications device 72 (FIG. 1), an activation contact information associated with the user from the user data table 68h and to detennine how to contact the user request from a user at PCD 75, as shown by blocks 90a, 90h, 9Q/of FIG. 5D. In th:is regard, the request can be transmincd 30 based on the retrieved contact infonnation, as depicted by to PCD 75, via any suitable technique known in the art, and blocks 90c and 90d of FIG. SD. The message manager 82 is then designed to tmnsmit a the BSCU 38 can be configured to include a plurality of communications devices 72, as depicted by FIG. SA message compatible with the medium previously selected by Each of these communications devices 72 can be configM the user for notification, as depicted by block 90e of FIG. ured to simultan~;.'Ously communicate with a respective user 35 5D. The message can include any travel data sent to the message manager 82 from the monitoring mechanism 69. of the notification system 10. The information received by the communications devices 72 can be transmitted to mesFor example, when the contact information indicates that a sage manager 82 (FIG. 5B) via any suitable technique, such telephone call is the preferred medium for notification, the as time division multiplexing, fOr example. Each user commessage manager 82 can send a recorded telephone message munications device 72 can also be designed to communicate 40 to the telephone number that is indicated by the contact information retrieved from the user data table 68h. If the with different communications media. For example, one user communications device 72 can be designed as a modem to monitoring mechanism 69 included travel data indicating the communicate with a modem associated with a user. This time of arrival in the command to message manager 82, then message manager 82 can be configured lo include a me:;sage user communications device 72 can be designed tu :;end data configured to prompt the user to return data pertaining to 45 indicating the expected time of arrival at a particular locacontact information. A.n example of such a prompt, could be tion. Alternatively, the same information can be sent via a template or web page where the PCD 75 (i.e., a computer e-mail, facsimile, page or other type of communications in this case) displays the template, and the user can fill in medium to the user, depending on the preferences selected fields of the template with the appropriate contact informaby the user during activation. tion. Alternatively, another one of the user commtmications 50 During activation, the message manager 82 can be further devices 72 can be designed to receive a telephone call from configured to prompt for and receive preference data (i.e., a user and to prompt the user to enter data through touch data pertaining to when the user is to be notified) from the tone signaling. Other user communications devices 72 can user, as shown by block 90g of FIG. SD. In this regard, the be designed to communicate with other types of communimessage manager 82 can be designed to prompt the user to cations media known in the art. 55 return infOrmation indicating which MTCU 15 is to be Once the message manager 82 (FIG. 5B) receives the monitored on behalf of the user and when the notification is request from the user, the message manager 82 is designed to be sent to the user. For example, the user can be prompted to determine that the request is a request for activation (i.e., to select an MTCU 15, a destination (or other particular a request for the user to be entered into the notification location), and a notification preference to indicate a time or system 10). In response, the message manager 82 transmits 60 distance that the MTCU 15 should be from the selected data to the user, via user communications device 72, in order destination or other particular location when a notification is to prompt the user to transmit the necessary contact inforto be sent to the user. In response, the user specifies, through mation, as shown by block 90g of FIG. 5D. In this regard, any known suitable communications technique, which the message manager 82 is configured to determine the type MTCU 15 the user wishes the notification system 1 0 to of medium used by the user to communicate the request for 65 monitor and how the user wishes to be notified of an activation and to transmit a prompt to the user that is impending arrival of the selected MTCU 15 at the selected compatible with th:is medium. For example, when the user is destination. If the user knows the coordinate values of the
Exhibit A Page 82
US 7,119,716 B2
33
34
destination, the user can simply transmit the coordinate database 94 is desired by the user, as depicted by blocks 88i V<J]ues to the data manager 67. If the user selects the and 88j of FIG. SC. The monitoring mechanism 69 is then destination without supplying the coordinates of the desti~ designed to retrieve from the database 94 the desired travel nation (e.g., the user selects a destination from a list of data and to transmit the retrieved travel data to message locations) then the data manager 67 is preferably designed to s manager 82, as shown by blocks 88k and 881 of FIG. 5C. determine the coordinate values transparently. In the case where the user desires to know the time and/or In some instances, the user may be aware of the vehicle distance the selected MTCU 15 is from the selected location, number and stop number used by the notification system 10 the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to retrieve from to identify a particular MTCU 15 and destination. For example, many buses are associated with a commonly 10 MT travel data table 68e of database 94 the coordinates of the destination specified by the user (if not provided in the known bus number, and the stops along the bus' route are request for travel data) and the current coordinates of the associated with commonly known bus stop numbers. The MTCU 15 of interest to the user. Prior to retrieving this data, data tllanager 67 can be configured to recognize the MTCU the monitoring mechcmism 69 can be configured to update 15 and destination associated with the bus number and stop number entered by the user in order to register the user with 15 the travel data for the MTCU 15 by transmitting an update request to the MTCU 15 via MT communications device 52. the notification system 10. Similar to the user communications devices 72, a plurality of As depicted by block 90i of FIG. 5D, the message manager 82 is preferably designed to automatically transmit MT communications devices 52 may be located at the BSCU to monitoring mechanism 69 the preferences selected by the 38 in order for multiple MTs 17 to simultaneously commuuser that pertain to when the user is to be notified. 1be 20 nicate with the monitoring mechanism 69, as depicted by monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to store this prefer~ FIG. SB. The MT conununications devices 52 are configured ence information in the database 94 cmd designed to relate it to communicate with the monitoring mechanism 69 through to the selected 1\fTCU 15. any suitable technique, such as time division multiplexing, Once a user becomes activated with the notification for example. system 10, the user may make changes to the preferences 25 Mter receiving the update request via communications specified by the user, as shown by blocks 90j-90m of FIG. devices 52 and 44, the MT manager 29 is designed to SO. The message manager 82 is configured to receive the transmit the current values of the MT travel data to the request for changes from the user. The message manager 82 monitoring manager 69. By updating the MT travel data can be configured to request the user to resubmit all contact information and preference data, as updated, or can be 30 before responding to the user request fOr travel data, the monitoring mechanism 69 can ensure the accuracy of the configured to request the user to only submit desired response transmitted to the user. changes to the contact infonnation or preference data. After After retrieving the coordinate values from the database receiving the new data, the message manager 82 is config94, the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to calculate ured to update the contact information in user data table 686 and to send a request to monitoring mechanism 69 to update 35 the distance that the MTCU 15 is from the selected destination based on the coordinate values of the MTCU 15 and the preference data relating to the monitoring of travel data. the coordinate values of the destination. If the preference In response, monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to update data and/or request for travel data indicates that the user is the preference data in database 94, as shown by blocks 88g to be notified when the :MTCU 15 is a certain time from the and 88h of FIG. SC. It should be further noted that as described hereinabove, 40 selected destination, the monitoring mechanism 69 is then designed to determine the estimated time of arrival of the the preference data and travel data can be automatically MTCU 15 at the destination based on this distance. As received and stored in the database 94 and selected MTs 17 described previously, the monitoring mechanism 69 is can be automatically monitored by the notification system designed to either assume that certain distances will take a 10. 2. Requests for Travel Data 45 certain amount of time to travel based on the type of traffic conditions usually encountered on the route or to calculate In addition to providing the user with automatic advance an average time previously required for MTs 17 of the notification of an impending arrival of an MTCU 15, the system to travel the route. To increase the accuracy of the nolification system 10 can also be used to provide the user calculations, the route should be divided into sections where with travel data on demand, as depicted by blocks 90n-90p, 90d and 90e of FIG. SD. In this regard, the user coilllnuni- 50 the time required to travel each section is independently calculated. Furthermore, time delays <'!Ssociated with schedcations device 72 is designed to receive a request for travel uled stops or deliveries can be factored into the calculations data from a user. For example, the user may call the by assuming a delay time for each stop or delivery dependM commru1ications device 72 on a telephone and through ing on the type of stop or delivery expected. touch~tone signaling select, among other options, an option to discover the distance and/or time a particular MTCU 15 55 After calculating the distance and, if requested, the time is from the destination specified by the user preference data the MTCU 15 is from the destination, the monitoring or specified by the user during the request for travel data. mechanism 69 is configured to transmit the calculated values The user cOimnunications device 72 is designed to transmit to the message manager 82. In response, the message the user selections to message manager 82. Based on the manager 82 is designed to transmit the calculated informaselections, the message manager 82 is designed to determine 60 tion to the user via user communications device 72. Since that the user message is a request for travel data.lnresponse, the user already has an established collllllunications connecthe message manager 82 sends a request to monitoring tion with user communications device 72 when requesting mechanism 69 to retrieve the requested database 94. travel data, there is no need for the message manager 82 to The monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to receive the consult the contact information in the user data table 68h. request for travel data from message manager 82 and to 65 The message manager 82 can simply transmit the data over interpret the request in order to determine which travel the same connection. However, if desired, the message information from the MT travel data table 68e of the manager 82 may consult the contact information in the user
Exhibit A
Page 83
US 7,119,716 B2
35
36
data table 68b to determine the user preferences in notifiThe message manager 82 then prompts the user to select cation and notifY the user of the distance and/or time certain preferences. For example, the message manager 82 accordingly. can request the user to identify a particular MTCU 15 that the user wishes the notification system 10 to track and a The monitoring mechanism 69 can also be configured to transmit a command to a mapping system 86 (FIG. SB) to 5 particular destination for the selected MTCU 15. If the user knows the identification number of the MTCU 15 or MT transmit mapping data to the message manager 82, if the stop number used by the notification system 10 to identifY user request for travel data or user preference data in the particular MTCU 15 and/or destination, the user can database 94 includes a request tOr a mapping. Tbe mapping simply transmit a message including this information. As an system 86 may be any system known in the art for producing and supplying a user with mapping data for rendering a 10 example, the bus numbers and/or bus stops of commercial and state operated buses are usually available to the public. display of a map. The command to the mapping system 86 Therefore, the user may be aware of the bus number and/or preferably includes the coordinate values of the MTCU 15 stop number of a particular bus that the user wishes to ride, and the destination. In response, the mapping system 86 and the user can simply transmit the bus number and/or stop transmits to message manager 82 mapping data sufficient for forming a display map with the locations of the MTCU 15 15 number to the message manager 82. Also, the user should be able to specify other identifYing information such as the day and the destination graphically displayed by the display or days of desired travel and the time of dav of desired map. TilC message manager 82 is design<..>d to retrieve the travel. contact information for the user requesting the travel data In the embodiment where the user is expecting to receive and is further configured to determine an address (e.g., an IP address or other type of address indicating how the mapping 20 a package from a particular delivery vehicle, the user may be aware of the package number or delivery number used by the data is to be routed to user) associated with the user for notification system 10. Therefore, by specifying the package sending the mapping data. The message manager 82 is then number and the address that the vehicle is to deliver the designed to transmit the mapping data to the retrieved package, the particular MTCU 15 of the vehicle that is to address, which preferably identifies a computer associated with Lhe user. When the PCD 75 (i.e., a computer in this 25 deliver the package can be located by the notification system 10. In this regard, a database should be defined by the case) receives the mapping data, the user computer is operators of the notification system 10 that relates package configured to render a graphical display depicting a map that numbers to lviTCU 15 numbers. shows the MT's location relative to the destination on the Alternatively, if the user is unable to identity a particular map. If desired, the monitoring mechanism 69 can be config 30 MT or MTCU 15, the message manager 82 can send information to the user that can be used to help the user ured to transmit the coordinate values of the MTCU 15 to the identify a particular MTCU 15. Par example, the message mapping system 86 each time the coordinate values are manager 82 can transmit to the user a list of buses or a list updated. The user request for travel data can request this of MT stops to the user. The user can use this information to feature or the user can indicate this desire in the preference data submitted during activation. Accordingly, for e<:~ch 35 select a particular MTCU 15 that is suitable to the user. Also, the message manager 82 can send map data from update, the mapping system 86 is designed to transmit mapping system 86 to the user. The user can then view the updated mapping data lo the user computer 75 via message map and select points on the map where the user would like manager 82, as previously described. As a result, the posi to know when the MTCU 15 reaches the selected point. The tion of the MTCU 15 is updnted, and the user can monitor the progress of the MTCU 15 on the display map rendered 40 points available for selection can be predetermined, such as scheduled bus stops or other types of vehicle stops, or the by the computer 75. user can be allowed to freely select any point on the map. In :\.!though the preferred embodiment illustrates the either case, the mapping logic preferably transmits the requests for travel data by determining the distance the coordinates of the selected points to the message manager MTCU 15 is from a particular location or by determining the 45 82, which can use this information to not only identify the time the MTCU 15 is from the particular location, other selected destination, but to also choose an appropriate information can be used to indicate the proximity of the MTCU15. MTCU 15 from the particular location. For example, the The message manager 82 also prompts the user to enter message transmitted to the user in response to a request for contact information such as how the user would like to be travel data can indicate that the MTCU 15 is currently at 50 notified of an impending arrival of the selected MTCU 15 at another particular location or landmark, preferably known to the selected destination. In response, the user selects a the user. Any other information indica ling the proximity of notification medium or combinations of media to be used to the MTCU 15 from a particular location can be used. notify the user and supplies the necessary information to 3. Establishing User Preferences enable communication of the notification. For example, if Initially, a user at remote location establishes communi 55 the user selects a telephone as a notification medium, then cation with the message manager 82 via communications the user provides a telephone number. In addition, if the user devices 72 and 73. As used herein, the term "remote loca selects a computer as the notification medium. then the user tion" shall refer to any location off the site of the BSCU 38. provides a suitable address for the comput~r, such as an The user can establish communication via a telephone, an c~mail address or IP address. If the user selects a pager as the e~mail message, the Internet, or any other suitable commu 60 notification medium, then the user provides a pager number. nication medium. The message manager 82 preferably trans~ It should be apparent to one skilled in the art when reading mits a list of options to the user, such as whether the user this disclosure that other types of notification media are would like to activate a monitoring of a particular MT, to possible. After receiving the desired contact infonnation retrieve travel data for a particular MT or to modifY pref~ from the user, the message manager 82 stores the contact erences previously selected by the user in an earlier com 65 information in the user data table 68b. munication session with the message manager 82. In The message manager 82 also prompts the user to trans response, the user selects the activation option. mit travel data preferences, which is information pertaining
Exhibit A Page 84
US 7,119,716 B2 37 38
to when the user would like to be notified. For example, the cation should be sent to the user. Alternatively, the moniuser can select to be notified a certain time before the taring mechanism 69 can be configured to periodically poll e<Jch entry in the MT data table 68a and to compare the selected MTCU 15 is to arrive at the selected destination. Also, the user can choose to be notified when the selected travel data corresponding to each entry with the correspondMTCU 15 is within a certain distance of the destination, and ing preference data in user data table 68b to determine which the user can choose to be notified when the selected MTCU users should receive a notification. 15 is a certain number of deliveries or stops away from the In analyzing each entry, the monitoring mechanism 69 destination, prefembly subtracts the current coordinate values in the Since the monitoring mechanism 69 should have access to accessed entry of the MTCU 15 with the coordinate values the travel data preferences in order to determine when a 10 previously stored in travel data 68e that indicate the destinotification is appropriate, the message manager 82 prefernation location selected by the user. If the resulting value is ably transmits the travel data preferences to the monitoring less than a predetermined value, then the monitoring mechamechanism 69 along with a unique identification number nism 69 sends a notification command to message manager that identifies the user and a unique identification number 82 instructing the message manager 82 to notifY the user of identi(ying the selected MTCU 15. The unique identification 15 the impending arrival of the MTCU 15. This predetermined number identifying the selected MTCU 15 can be the MT value corresponds to the distance that the MTCU 15 should number entered by the user provided that the number entered be from the destination before a notification is sent to the by the user identifies the MTCU 15 to be monitored. In tum, user. Preferably, this predetermined value is calculated from the monitoring mechanism 69 stores this in database 94. or is included in the preference data supplied by the user Entries associated with a particular MTCU 15 can be related 20 during activation or during an update to the activation. together in the database 94. For example, each entry assaM The monitoring mechanism 69 can also send the notifi~ ciated with a particular MTCU 15 can be stored, and each of cation command to the message manager 82 based on the estimated time the MfCU 15 is from the destination. After the entries can have a pointer pointing to another one of the entries associated with the particular MfCU 15, Therefore, calculating the value indicating the distance of the MTCU entries associated with a particular MTCU 15 can be easily 25 15 from the destination, the monitoring mechanism 69 can estimate how long it will take for the MTCU 15 to reach the located. Other methods known in the art for categorizing. the entries and correlating the entries with a particular .MT or destination by asstm1ing that the MfCU 15 can travel certain with the travel data of a particular MT are also possible. distances in a certain amotmt of time. In order to increase the Once the message manager 82 has received the desired accuracy of the notification system 10, the monitoring contact information and travel data preferences ifom the 30 mechanism 69 can vary the time for the distances according user, the communication between the message manager 82 to the type oftrall:ic that is typically encountered at the MT's and the user can be terminated. 'The BS manager 41 should location and route of travel. If trailic conditions are usually now have sufficient in10rmation to monitor the selected congested along the MTC1J's route, then the monitoring MTCU 15. If the user wishes to change the contact informechanism 69 can assume higher rates of time. Furthermation and/or the travel data prcfCrenccs, the user can 35 more, if the travel data indicates that the MTCU 15 has a reestablish communication with the message manager 82, number of MT stops prior to reaching the destination, the 1l1e message manager 82 preferably recognizes the user monitoring mechanism 69 can factor in a delay time for each requests as an update mther than an activation and prompts stop depending on the type of the stop. Once the monitoring mechanism 69 determines the the user to transmit the new information, In this regard, the message manager 82 can prompt the user for all of the 40 MTCU's expected time of arrival at the destination, the desired contact information and/or preference data, similar monitoring mechanism 69 can determine whether the user to the activation session, and simply replace the previously should be notified based on this estimated time. If the stored contact information and/or preference data, or the estimated time is less than a predetermined value indicating message mallilger 82 can prompl the user for only the thedesiredestimatedtimeofarrivalchosenbytheuser, then information to be updated and then merely update the 45 the monitoring mechanism 69 sends the notification compreviously stored information. mand to the message manager 82. It should be noted that the information transferred The message manager 82, in response to the notification between the user and the message manager 82 can be command from the monitoring mechanism 69, retrieves the interfaced with the message manager 82 through a human contact information from user data table 68b indicating how operator during the activation session or update session so the user desires to be notified, Utilizing the contact inferdescribed hereinabove and during other sessions, which will mation, the message manager 82 then sends a message to the be described further hereinbelow. The human operator can user at remote location, The monitoring mechanism 69 prompt the user for certain information through a telephone preferably includes certain travel data in the notification call or other suitable medium of communication and can command, such as the MTCU's location, Consequently, the enter the response of the user into the message manager 82, 55 message manager 82 is able to include this travel data with 4. Monitoring the MT the message sent to the usee For exan1ple, the message may 'lbe monitoring mechanism 69 of FIGS. 5B and SC, upon indicate that tl1e MTCU 15 (and, therefore, that the rvn~ receiving travel data from MTCU 15, stores the travel data attached to the MTCU 15) is a certain amount of time or (in the preferred embodiment, coordinate values) relating to distance from the destination or the message may indicate the MTCU 15, in MT travel data table 68e of database 94 60 the MTCU's specific location, perhaps with reference to that is configured to contain travel data and is associated street names and/or street blocks. with the MTCU 15. After accessing an entry for storing If the contact information indicates that the user wishes to have map data sent to a computer at the remote location, the travel data, the monitoring mechanism 69 compares the current travel data (either received from the MTCU 15 or message manager 82 sends a request for map data to selected ffom a predetermined or assumed set of travel data, 65 monitoring mechanism 69, In response, the monitoring as described hereinabove) with the user preferences stored in mechanism 69 sends to the mapping system 86 the necessary user data table 68b in order to determine whether a notifidata (e.g,, the coordinates of the MTCU 15 and the destiExhibit A Page 85
US 7,119,716 B2
39
nation) for the mapping system 86 to transmit the appropri
40
The message manager 82 then transmits a request for data ate mapping data. The mapping system 86 transmits the to the monitoring mechanism 69. The request for data mapping cfuta to message manager 82 which again utilizes includes the unique identification number used to identifY the contact information retrieved from user data base 78 to the MTCU 15, as well as any other information needed by communicate the mapping data to the appropriate PCD 75 at 5 the monitoring mechanism 69 to provide the desired infor remote location. The PCD 75 then displays the mapping data mation. For example, the message manager 82 may also in graphical form so that the user can see the MT's location transmit infOrmation indicating that the user wishes to relative to the destination within the map graphically disdiscover information pertaining to the type of MT that is en played by the PCD 75. route. The monitoring mechanism 69, in turn, retrieves the ]be notification message sent to the user indicates the 10 desired travel data from the datubase 94. impending arrival of the MTCU 15 at the destination preAfter retrieving the desired travel data, the monitoring viously selected by the user. Accordingly, the user can mechanism 69 transmits the retrieved data to the message prepare for the arrival of the MTCU 15 knowing approximanager 82, which conununicates the data information to mately how long it should take for the MTCU 15 to arrive the user in a message transmitted to the user. The message at the destination. 15 can include the travel data retrieved by the monitoring Note that U.S. Pat. No. 6,317,060, which is incorporated mechanism 69 or can be formed to indicate the information herein by reference, describes a communication handler that contained by the travel data. For example, when communican be implemented in or in connection with the manager 41 cation is over a telephone cmmection, a recorded message for enabling conununication of a large number of concurrent can be formed by the message manager 82 indicating the or substantially concurrent notification conummications 20 distance the MTCU 15 is from the destination based on the (perhaps due to a large number of vehicles and/or users). travel data sent to the message manager 82. When commu5. Requesting Travel Data nication is via modem signals, travel data can be transmitted During the monitoring process described hereinabove, the to the user by the message device 82. In either case, the user can discover the status of the MTCU 15 or of the MT attached to the MTCU 15, on demand, by contacting the BS 25 contents of the message is based on the travel data retrieved by the monitoring mechanism 69. Since a communications manager 41 and requesting information pertaining to the line between the user and message manager 82 is already travel data stored in the database 94. In this regard, the user established in order for the user to make the request for establishes communication with the message manager 82 travel data, the message manager82 preferably transmits the (FIG. SR) via communications devices 72 and 73. The medium used for conummication can be any suitable 30 data to the user over the established communication connection. When the user desires to receive map data (indimedium known in the art (e.g., telephone, email, Internet, cated by the selection of an option during the request for cellular phone, etc.). The preferred will be discussed heretravel daw or by the user preferences stored in the database inafter with the user establishing communication via tele94), the monitoring mechanism 69 transmits a map generaphone, although other media of communication are also 35 tion command and travel data of the selected MTCU 15 to suitable. mapping system 86. Mapping system 86 then transmits After the telephone connection is established, the message graphical data to message manager 82. manager 82 prompts the user with a series of recorded Message manager 82 corrummicates the graphical data to questions or options in order to determine the user request. PCD 75 which is capable of generating a map display based The user responds to these prompts through touch-tone signaling which is well known in current telephony com 40 on the graphical data. In order to communicate this data, the message manager 82 retrieves the user contact information munications systems. Initially, the message manager 82 from the user data table 68b. Tbe contact information prompts the user to indicate whether the call is an activation, indicates the address (and/or other pertinent infonnation) of an update of an activation, or a request for travel data. The the PCD 75 so that the message manager 82 knows where to user selects the appropriate touch-tone number to indicate that the user is requesting travel data. 45 transmit the graphical data. By viewing the map display generated by the PCD 75, the user can determine the The message manager 82 receives and interprets the location and estimated time of arrival of the MTCU 15. The touch-tone signal to determine that the user is requesting map display preferably shows the intended route of travel by travel data. In response, the message manager 82 prompts the MTC1J 15 and any scheduled MT stops along the route. the user to transmit an identification number of the MTCU 15 of concern for the user. This prompt can include infor- 50 Since the notification system 10 stores certain travel mation to aide the user in selecting an :MTCU 15. The user information in order to monitor the travel of an MTCU 15 responds by transmitting a series of touch-tone signals that for providing an advance notification of an impending indicate the identification number or other unique data of the arrival of an MTCU 15, the notification system 10 can also particular MTCU 15 of concern for the user, The message provide an easy and low cost way for a user to access manager 82 receives and interprets the touch-tone signals 55 information pertaining to the .MTCU 15, on demand. and determines which MTCU 15 is selected by the user Accordingly, the user does not have to wait for preselected based on the received touch~tone signals. preferences to be satisfied before learning of the MTCU' s 'lbe message manager 82 can then, if desired, prompt the (and, therefore, the MT's) location and/or estimated time of user to indicate which travel data the user desires to know. arrival. The user can monitor the travel of the :MTCU IS at For example, it is likely that the user may want to know how 60 any time by submitting a request for travel data and can, far the :MTCU 15 is from the destination or how long it therefore, know the location and status of the MTCU 15 should take the :MTCU 15 to arrive at the destination. before receiving an advance notification signal that is based However, the user may want to know other information, on comparisons between the MTCU's travel data and the such a;;;, but not limited to, how many MT stops the MTCU user preselected preferences. As a result, the user can better 15 encounters en route or the type ofMT that is en route, etc. 65 prepare for an arrival of any particular MTCU 15 or MT The user responds with touch-tone signals, as appropriate, to attached to the MTCU 15 associated with the notification indicate what infOrmation the user is requesting. system 10.
Exhibit A Page 86
us 7,119,716 82
41
It should be apparent to one skilled in the art that at least a portion of the functionality of the data manager 67 can be implemented by the MT manager 29, if desired. In tills regard, preference data and/or travel data fOr the MTCU 15 can be stored in the computer system 31a coupled to the MTCU 15. Accordingly, it is possible for the MT manager 29 to dctennine when to transmit a notification to the user and to transmit a notification to the user via communication device 52 and 72. However, such an implementation can increase the complexity and cost of the notification system 10 and is therefore generally not desirable.
42
is possible to have special purpose digital or analog hard~ ware designed to implement the same or similar methodol~ ogy, and such hardware could be associated with the BSCU 40. In this embodiment, the initiating step 101 is performed by the transmitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), under the control of the response system feedback analyzer lOOa associated with the BS manager 41. Tbe notification communication passes through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 (.FIG. 1) associated with the PCD 75. The response from the notification~receiving party is first produced by a party associated with the PCD 75. The response is electronically recognized by a response system feedback mechanism 100b of the PCD 75. The response system feedback mechanism lOOb causes the transmitter 73 (FIG. 1), also associated with the PCD 75, to communicate suitable feedback data, which ultimately is communicated in some form to the response system feedback analyzer lOOa. In one embodiment, among other possible embodiments, the PCD 75 is a conventional and commercially available touch~tone telephone, and the response can be accomplished by having the notification~receiving party depress one or more appropriate keys on the keypad associated with the telephone. In this embodiment, the response system feed~ back mechanism 100b is already built into the telephone, in the sense that there are already on~board the phone, system components for recognizing keypad keys that are depressed and for generating dual frequency tones that can be carried across the communications medium. Also, the telephone is equipped with a transmitter 73 for commtu1icating the dual frequency tones. In this embodiment, the BSCU 40 is equipped with a receiver 45 (communicatively coupled to local interface 33b of FIG. 3) for receiving and decoding the dual frequency tone that results from depression of a tele~ phone button. Such receivers/decoders 45 are well known in the art of telephony and are readily commercially available. For instance, the star (*) button could be assigned for indicating that the receiving party has in fact received the notification communication. Once the receiving party depresses this key and once the BS manager 41 recognizes that it has been depressed by detecting this event, then the BS manager 41 can definitively conclude receipt of the notification communication by the party associated with the PCD 75. More than one key can be used to convey multiple instructions or indications from the notification~receiving party to the BS manager 41. The BS manager 41 can be equipped with an instruction lookup mechanism 84, for example, a lookup table, database, or other mechanism for identifying what each received key stroke means. I11 some embodiments, more than one party may have access to the PCD 75, and it may be desirable to give each party their own personal code of one or more keys, so that when a response is given by a party, the party can enter his/her own personal code, and the BS manager 41 will therefore be advised as to which party actually received the notification. In another embodiment, the PCD is a conventional tele~ phone and the BSCU 40 is equipped with voice recognition software. The receiving party con:finns receipt of the noti~ fication comnnmication with any suitable voice command, for instance, "notification received." Voice recognition sys~ terns (e.g., IVR) are weli known in the art. In another embodiment, when the PCD 75 is a computer, one or more keys on the keyboard, a mouse click on a button provided in a screen image, etc., can be assigned for indicating that the receiving party has in fact received the
10
L. Alternative Embodiment for Communications U.S. Pat. No. 5, 732,074, which is incorporated herein by reference, describes systems for enabling communications between mobile vehicles and a remote computer, via standardized network communications links. In one embodi~ ment, the links include the Internet and a controller area network used in vehicles. A TCP/IP stack is implemented in the controller. In another embodiment, each of the vehicles has an Internet address or designation associated with it. The systems and methods described in this patent can be employed in connection with a notification system 10 and can be implemt:nted to accomplish the many features described in this document.
15
20
25
M. Response Systems/Methods Response systems (and methods) are provided for notifi~ cation systems. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of possible response systems will be described in 30 detail hereafter. The architecture of one such embodiment, among others, is shown in FIG. 6 and is generally denoted by reference numeral100. Although not limited to this particular imple~ mentation, this response system 100 is implemented in the 35 notification system 10 of FJG. 1. 1. Response System Feedback Analyzer a. First Embodiment The response system 100, particularly the response sys tern feedback analyzer 100a, can be configured to imple~ ment the following methodology, as is summarized by fl. ow chart in FJG. 7A: causing initiation of or monitoring a notification communication to a PCD 75 associated with a party, as shown in block 101 of FIG. 7A; and during the notification communication, receiving a response from the party via the party's PCD 75, indicating that the party associated with the PCD 75 has received notice, as indicated by block 102 in FIG. 7A The response can be produced by any system or method that verifies that any party or one or more specific parties received the notification communica~ tion. Some such systems and/or methods can accomplish this by verifYing or detecting the physical presence of such party(ies) at the PCD 75. Some such systems and/or methods can accomplish this by having the notification~receiving party exercise a physical action that can be converted to an electronic signal and communicated back to the notification system 10. Although not necessary for implementation, the foregoing methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred embodiment is implemented, by software associated with the message manager 82 (FIG. SB), the monitoring mecha~ nisrn 69 (FIG. SB) and/or the data manager 67 (FIG. SA) associated with the BS manager 41 (FJGS. 1 and 3). See response system feedback analyzer in FIGS. 1 and 3. The blocks of FIG. 7A essentially represent the high level architecture of such software, i.e., the response system feedback analyzer in FIGS. 1 and 3. Note, however, that it
40
45
so
55
60
65
Exhibit A Page 87
US 7,119,716 B2
43
44
notification communication. In this embodiment, software at the stop location) is communicated to the PCD 75 during associated with the computer recognizes the key depression the notification communication. Furthermore, the notificaor mouse click and communicates occurrence of same back tion message can indicate to the notified party an option that to the notification system 10. The software can be a concan be selected by the notified party to cOimect with and ventional web browser and the notification communication 5 communicate \vith the driver of a vehicle or a party at the BSCU 40 or another location, in order to enable the notified could involve sending an HTML page (or other markup language) to the computer that can be operated upon by the party to discuss the content of the work order. b. Second Embodiment web browser. An applet(s) associated with the HTML page can cause a window to appear on the computer screen with FIG. 7B is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary a selectable button, for example, "Notification Received" 10 implementation of a response system feedback analyzer of and when selected by the mouse, the applet can cause the the present invention, which is optionally implemented as at browser to return an HTML page from the computer back to least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the notification system 10, which in this case would have a the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. ln this embodiment, a web server that can accept the HTML page response and notified party can cause a cmmection to be made with a analyze the content. As an alternative, the response system 15 representative that knows the particulars of or that can 100 could be designed so that any input from an input/output access the particulars of a pickup or delivery of an item or (J/0) peripheral device connected to the notification-receivservice in connection with a stop location. ing party's computer could be recognized as a confinnation In this embodiment, the response system 100, partlcularly of receipt by the party of the notification. Also, note that the the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be conresponse can occ..-ur during the same communication session 20 figured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized by tlow chart in FIG. 7B: monitoring travel data as the notification or in a separate communication within a reasonable time period. in connection with an MT 17 that is destined to pickup or Any response data, including confirmation of receipt of a deliver (an item or service) at a stop location, as indicated at notification, that is rr..'Ceived by the response system feedblock 105; causing initiation of a notification commun.icaback analyzer lOOa can be stored, if desired, with party 25 tion to a PCD 75 based upon the travel data (e.g., when the contact records 86, as shown in FIG. 6, which can take the MT 17 is in close proximity, has just departed a prior stop form of a table, database, etc. location, etc.), as indicated at block 106; and during the It is also possible that the response system 100 and the notification conununication, enabling a party associated response system feedback analyzer lOOa can be designed so with the PCD 75 to select whether or not to communicate, that the party's response indicates that the party associated 30 for example, via voice by way of a telephone or via text by with the PCD 75 is willing to accept or refuses a task, or job, way of a computer network link, with a party having access associated with the notification. Tiw task can be virtually to particulars of the pickup or delivery, as indicated at block anything that is to be perfOrmed by the party. For example, 107, so that a discussion can be had regarding the particulars in the context of a taxi service, a BSCU 40 could send a of the pickup or delivery. notification via a telephone to a taxicab, and a message could J5 In some embodiments, where there is a BSCU 40 assobc played over the telephone asking the party if another ciated with the notitlcation system 10, the BS manager 41 party can be picked up at a particular location within a causes communicative coupling between the PCD 75 of the prescribed time period. The party associated with the taxicab party and a communications device associated with the party could send a response back to the BSCU 40, indicating having access to particulars of the pickup or delivery. The either acceptance or refusal of the task, by actuating a key 40 latter could be located at a call center, at a place that is local that is coded to each of these responses. Note that U.S. Pat. to the RSCU 40, etc. No. 5,945,919, which is entirely incorporated by reference, In some embodiments, where there is a BSCU 40 assodescribes an automated dispatch system, in which the elated with the notification system 10, the BS manager 41 response system 100 can be employed. causes communicative coupling between the PCD 75 of the As another example, consider a public bus transit system 45 party and a PCD 75 associated with the MT 17 or person in that communicates bus arrivaVdeparture information to a the Mf 17. PCD 75 and wherein a party can send a response indicating A message can be provided during the notification comreceipt of notice and indicating that the party will be a munication that includes a work order or description of the passenger on the bus. This information would be helpful reason why the stop is being made. This can be very useful with respect to bus scheduling. 50 in connection with, for example, services to be perfOrmed at It is also possible, in the context of a notification system the stop location. The party being called can communicate 10 employed in connection with a service (e.g., cable with somebody associated with the pickup/delivery service installation, telephone line installation, etc.) to be pcrlOnned to correct infonnation that is in error on the work order, add at a destination, that the response system 100 and the additional tasks to the work order, delete tasks on the work response system feedback analyzer 100a can be designed so 55 order, etc. that the party's response indicates that the party associated As a further option, the BS manager 41 can be designed with the PCD 75 needs to have an additional service to enable the party to select an option that indicates to the performed at the destination or that additional equipment notification system 10 that the work order is proper. For will be needed at the destination. As an example in the instance, a voice recording over a telephone link may say context of a telephone line installation, the notified party 60 "Hit the pound key if the work order is accurate or hit the could indicate that it wishes two lines to be in..'ltalled instead star key to talk with a representative." Selection of the pound of the one which was ordered, so that the telephone service key would confirm to the BS manager 41 the order and the MT 17 would travel to the stop location, as scheduled, and vehicle operator is notified in advance of the requisite additional service/equipment. perfonn the requisite pickup/delivery task. Selection of the It is also possible, in the context of a notification system 65 star key would cause the BS manager 41 to com1ect the 10 employed in connection with a service to be perfonncd notified PCD 75 with a communications device of a party at a destination, that a work order (of work to be performed having access to particulars of the pickup or delivery.
Exhibit A
Page 88
US 7,119,716 B2 45
c. Third Embodiment FIG. 7C is a flow chart illustrating yet another exemplary implementation of a response system feedback analyzer of
46
picked up; changing the number of rooms to be carpet cleaned, changing the level of service (each having a different price), etc. d. Fourth Embodiment FIG. ?C is a flow chart illustrating still another exemplary implementation of a response system feedback analyzer 100a, which is optionally implemented as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager ofF1GS.1 and 3. In essence, a response from a notified party is used to select one of a plurality of times for a pickup or delivery of an item or service to occur at a stop location. In this embodiment, the response system 100, particularly the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be configured to implement the following methodology, as is swnmarized by flow chart in FIG. 7D: directly or indirectly monitoring travel or travel data in connection with one or more MTs :17 in order to track them, as indicated at block ll4; initiating or engaging in a notification communication session with ;:1 PCD 7S, when appropriate, based upon impending arrival or dt.'Parture of one or more MTs 17 in relation to a location as indicated at block 115; during the notification communication session, providing a plurality of arrival and/or departure times in relation to the location and enabling selection of at least one of the times (directly or indirectly; the selection can be of an item that is associated in some way with the time so that the selection is essentially indirect), as indicated at block 116; and causing an MT 17 to arrive at or depart from the location at substantially the selected time, as indicated at block 117. As for step 114, the arrival or departure times associated with MTs 17 can be stored and updated in database 94 (FIG. SA), particularly in MT travel data table 68e. One or a plurality ofMTs 17 can be monitored by the BS manager 41 for purposes of carrying out this embodiment. With respect to step llS, the notification communication session can be initiated by the BS manager 41 based upon user or system defined preferences stored in database 94 (FIG. SA). User and system defmed preferences have been described elsewhere in this document. The predefined pref~ erences may include, for instance, (a) a proximity to the location or (b) a designated location or region that is near the location at issue and that when encountered by one or more MTs 17, will result in the communication session. Tile arrival or departure times of the one or more MTs 17 in relation to the location may be determined, at least in part based upon actual travel status information of the MTs 17 or at least in part based upon existing scheduling of the MTs 17 (which may or may not be updated). As an example of a mechanism for triggering a notification in accordance with step 115, the user may indicate that the user would like to receive a notification when a pickup vehicle is one hour from arriving at a particuJar stop location. Tbe BS manager 41 may determine, based upon the monitoring of travel data, that a particular vehicle 17 can arrive in one hour or, if a stop is skipped by such vehicle 17, then the vehicle 17 can arrive in 35 minutes instead of one hour. 'Ihe BS manager 41 can be designed to initiate the notification communication under these circumstances and provide the different options during the notification communication, one of which can be selected by the notified party. Thus, as can be seen from the aforementioned example, during the corrununication session, first and second times may be offered that corresponds substantially with a scheduled time and a sooner time. Moreover, different fees may be charged for selection of the different times. Or, a fee may be charged for sek'Ction of the sooner time.
the present invention, which is optionally implemented as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of
the BS manager ofFIGS.l and 3. A response from a notified party is used to change one or more tasks associated with a pickup or delivery of an item or service associated with a stop location. ln this embodiment, the response system 100, particularly IO the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be configured to implement the following mcdmdology, as is
smnmarized by flow chart in PIG. 7C: monitoring travel data

in connection with a MT 17 that is destined to pickup or deliver an item or service at a stop location, as indicated at 15 block 108; causing initiation of a notification communication (which may include a message indicating one or more tasks to be accomplished at the stop location) to a pen;onal communications device based upon the travel data, as indicated at block 109; and during the notification communica- 20 tion, enabling a party associated with the personal communications device to change one or more tasks associated with the pickup or delivery, as indicated at block 110. The tasks can be stored in and changed within database 94 25 (FJG. 5A), particularly in tasks table 68m. The BS manager 41 can be designed to change any of the tasks, based upon one or more inputs from the notified party. A set of options can be provided by the BS manager 41 to the notified party,
!~~ ~~=~;~~ ;~~ si~!;t ~e:~o~%e~:~ ~~~~?~~ti~~l~t~~:i~f~
30
options are as fOllows: an option that inclicates that the one or more tasks are proper or confirmed (so go ahead and follow through with the scheduled pickup or delivery; an option that enables the party to change the one or more tasks 35 or scope thereof; an option to enable adding a task; or an option to C!nabie deletion of a task. Tbis embodiment has numerous applications. One nonlimiting example (e.g., pizza delivery, package delivery, etc.) involves indicating in a message associated with the 40 notification communication the amount of a bill and enabling the notified party to con finn the amount and/or the intention to pay the amount when the MT 17 reaches the stop location for the pickup or delivery. In some embodiments, the system can be configured so that the notified party can 45 make payment during the notification communication session. The BSCU 40 can be designed to prompt the notified party to enter a credit card number to be used to pay the bilL The card number can also be stored in user preferences and retrieved by the man<Jger 41 pursuant to an appropriate 50 prompt from the notified party during the notification communication session. As another nonlimiting example of such an application, consider a configuration where a service, such as a telephone installation, is being provided nt the stop location. Further~ 55 more, assume that there is a work order for installation of a single telephone line. An advertisement (from table 68/of database 94 of FIG. SA) could be provided to the notified party during the notification conununication that indicates that a second line can be installed for half the price of the 60 first line and for half of the monthly subscription fee. An option to select or deselect the second line instaliation can be provided to the notified party. Accordingly, the notified party has the ability to add or change the tasks to be performed at the stop location. 65 ]bis idea can be applied to other contexts: changing the number of goods (e.g., groceries, etc.) to be delivered or
Exhibit A
Page 89
US 7,119,716 B2
47
48
As another example of a mechanism for triggering a tation, the fOregoing methodology can be implemented, and notification in accordance with step 115, the user may in the preferred embodiment is implemented, by software associated with the BS manager 41. The blocks of FIG. 7 indicate via user preferences that the user would like to would represent the high level architecture of such software. receive a notiilcation when a vehicle is one hour from Note, however, that it is possible to have special purpose departing from a location. The ns manager 41 may deterdigital or analog hardware designed to implement the mcthmine, based upon the monitoring of travel data, that two ado logy. Such hardware can be easily associated with the different vehicles are available, one departing in 15 minutes and the other departing in one hour. The BS manager 41 can BSCU 40. In this embodiment, the initiating step 111 is performed by be designed to initiate the notification communication under these circumstances to provide the two different options, one 10 the transmitter 72 assoclated with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), of which can be selected by the notified party. under the control of the response system feedback analyzer 100a of the BS manager 41. The notification communication With respect to step 116, the BS manager 41 can be easily designed to provide options to the notified party and to passes through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 receive selections during the notification communication (FIG. l) associated with the PCD 75. session. The set of options can be provided by the BS 15 Tiw response from the receiving party is communicated by the transmitter 73 (FIG. 1), Wider the control of the manager 41 to the notified party, for example, via voice response system feedback mechanism 1OOb associated with recording, TVR, text screen prompts, or otherwise, commu the PCD 75 that is associated with the receiving party. In one nicatcd to the notified PCD 75. The notified party can select embodiment, the PCD 75 is a conventional touch-tone one or more of the options on the notified PCD 75 via, for example, IVR, entering text, pressing touch pad keys to send 20 telephone, and the response can be accomplished by having a DTMF signal that means something to the BS manager 41, the receiving party depress one or more appropriate keys on the keypad of the telephone 75 to communicate one or more selecting a screen prompt via a mouse or touch screen, selecting a link on an HTML screen communicated by the instructions. In this embodiment, the BSCU 40 is equipped BS manager 41 or a source controlled by or affiliated with with a receiver (communicatively coupled to local interface the BS manager 41, etc. 25 33b of FIG. 3) fOr receiving and decoding the dual frequency tone that results from depression of a telephone button. For In the case of a plurality of monitored MTs 17, a nwnber of times can be provided to correspond respectively with the instance, the star(*) button could be assigned for indicating Mis l7. furthermore, the notified party can select one of the an instruction from the receiving party. Once the receiving party depresses this key and once the response system plurality of times for an TvfT 17 to arrive at or depart from the location, which will identify to the BS manager41 which 30 feedback analyzer lOOa of the BS manager 41 recognizes that it has been depressed by detecting this event (with one of the MTs 17 should be caused to arrive at or depart from the location. receiver 72 under the control of the BS manager 41 ), then the response system feedback analyzer lOOa of the BS manager With respect to step 117, the BS manager 41 can cause, directly or indirectly, an MT 17 to arrive at or depart from 41 can act upon the instruction. As mentioned previously, more than one key can be used the location at the selected time by any of a variety of 35 possible systems and/or methods. One method involves in order to convey one or more instructions from the notification-receiving party to the notification system 10. having the selected time conmmnicated to a PCD 75 assoFurthermore, the PCD 75 could also be a computer or any ciated with the appropriate MT 17 so that the operator of the appropriate I'vff 17 knows of the scheduled arrival or delivof the other devices that have been mentioned, or equiva. ery at the location and can make it happen. In alterfu'ltive 40 lents thereof As indicated at block 113 in FIG. 8, the response system embodiments, the steps "114-"1"17 are performed in a PCD 75 associated with a tracked MT 17, in which case the operator feedback analyzer 100a of the BS manager 41 modifies the will be advised of the scheduled arrival or delivery at the manner in which future notification comnnmications are to location and can make il happen. be sent, based upon the response or content in Lhe response, Another method in which the BS manager 41 can cause 45 by manipulating data stored in connection with the notifithe MT 17 to arrive at or depart from the location at the cation-receiving party contact records 86 (FIG. 6). The response system feedback analyzer 100a of the BS manager selected time, in a case where the MT 17 can be remotely controlled, would be to communicate appropriate data or 41 can be configured to modifY the manner in which future notification communications are to be sent in a number of control signals to the MT 17. This embodiment has numerous applications, but are not 50 possible ways. all listed here for simplicity. In one embodiment, among many possible embodiments, e. Fifth Embodiment when the response system feedback analyzer 1 OOa is implementcd in software, it is designed to maintain one or more Another embodiment of a response system feedback records pertaining to one or more parties and one or more analyLer 100a, among others, is shown in PIG. 8. This embodiment envisions more than one notification commu- 55 communication methods associated with each party. Any nication, perhaps regular notifications, occurring between suitable table or database can be maintained to store this information, if desired. ln this embodiment, this data is the notification system and a party, and enabling a party to influence how future notification communications are to stored in party contacts records 86 (FIG. 6). At this step in occur, after the first one, This response system feedback the process, after receiving the response from the notificaanalyzer lOOa can be summarized by the following steps: 60 tion-receiving party, the response system feedback analyzer lOOa associated with the BS manager 41 modifies these initiating a first notification communication to a PCD asso records, based upon the notification-receiving party's ciated with a party, as indicated by block 111 in FIG. 8; instmctions in the response, to store/create modified contact receiving a response communication from the party's PCD.' as indicated by block 112 in FIG. 8; and modifying the data, in order to affect changes in the manner in which future manner in which future notification communications are to 65 notification communications are communicated. By its instmctions, the notincation-receiving party can, be sent to the party, based upon the response, as indicated by among other things, change the party(ies) to which notifiblock 113 in FIG. 8. Although not necessary for implemenExhibit A Page 90
US 7,119,716 B2
49
50
cation communications are sent in the future, change the As another example, the response system 100 and the response system feedback analyzer lOOa may be designed so MT(s) that is monitored by the notification system 10, change the proximity parameter that provokes a notification that an instruction may be used to advise the notification communication, change the MT stop location that is used by system 10 that the notification-receiving party would like to the notification system 10 to provoke a notification commu~ receive a status message in future notification commtmicanication, change the notification communication method tions, indicating the status of travel of the MT 17. For and/or PCD, change a notification communication to a later example, in future notifications, the status message may indicate the location of the MT 17 or the proximity (distance time based upon a time of day or time period, cancel and/or time) of the MT 17 with respect to a location. initiation of one or more scheduled future notification com~ munications, etc. 10 As another example, the response system 100 and the response system feedback analyz,er 1 OOa may be designed so FIGS. 9A through 9C illustrate, pictorially, notable non~ that an instruction may be used to advise the notification limiting examples of way~ in which the response system system 10 that the notification-receiving party would like to feedback analyzer 100a of the BS manager 41 can cause the receive directions to a site associated with the notification or notification system 10 to modify the manner in which future notification communications are communicated by the noti~ 15 an advertisement played during the notification. In this embodiment, the BSCU 40 can be communicatively coupled fication system 10. to suitable map software. To further illustrate this concept, As iUustrated in FIG. 9A, the response system feedback a couple of specific examples are described hereafter. analyzer 1 OOa associated with the RS manager 41 may he As a first example consider a scenario where a telephone designed to cause the notification system 10 to modify contact data after receiving the response, as indicated in 20 message advises a taxicab driver to: "Pick up at 325 East Broad Street Confirm by pressing pm.md. If you need block 121, and to cause the notification system 10 to initiate directions, press the star key." The system could be config~ one or more other future notification communications in ured so that the response system feedback analyzer 100a accordance with, or based upon, the modified contact data recognizes the # key as a confrrmation that the driver has in resulting from the notification~receiving party's response, as 25 fact received the notification and recognizes the * key as a indicated in block 122. desire to receive directions. In this case, the resp:mse system For example, the response system feedback analyzer lOOa feedback analyzer 100a would access direction information associated with the BS manager 41 can be configured to from the map software and forward the direction infonna~ cause the notification system 10 to wait a time period before tion, or a part thereof, to the driver, during the original sending another comtmmication to the receiving party. The 30 notification communication or in a subsequent commtmica~ time period may be predefined or maybe be dynamically tion. programmable. The receiving party may define the time As a second example consider a scenario where a message period in his/her response, for example, by selecting an sent to a computer advises a person that; "Your UPS package appropriate keypad or keyboard button in the case of a has arrived and is ready to be picked up at 325 East Broad telephone or computer, respectively. The instruction may 35 Street. Conflrm by pressing the one key. Pizza Hut is next indicate to the respotL'ie system feedback analy7er lOOa door, and if you press the two key now, you will receive a associated with the BS manager 41 that the notification~ free beverage." The system could be configured so that the receiving party cannot handle any fi1rther notifications for a response system feedback analyzer lOOa recognizes depres predetermined time period, such as 50 minutes, because the sian ofthe 1 key as a confirmation that the person has in fact party now attends to a task (e.g., unloading or loading an 40 received the notification and recognizes depression of the 2 item from an MT) resulting from the first notification. The key as a desire to receive the discount. Tn this case, the task may even be identified in the notification~receiving response system feedback analyzer 100a could be designed party's response. Accordingly, the notificationreceiving to subsequently send a coupon electronically to the person party can influence how the BS manager 41 handles future via the computer, which could then be printed and taken by notifications to the particular party. 45 the person to the Pizza Hut to receive the discount. As another example, the response system feedback ana~ As illustrated in FIG. 9B, the response system feedback lyzer 100a associated with the BS mru1ager 41 can be analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 may be configured to cause the notification system 10 to wait for the designed to cause the notification system 10 to modify :MT 17 to move a prescribed distance or come within a contact data, as indicated in block 131, to refrain from predetermined proximity of a location before sending 50 sending notification communications to the party's PCD 75 another communication to the notification-receiving party. after receiving a response, as denoted in block 132, and to As another example, the response system 100 and the initiate one or more other future notification communica~ response system feedback analyzer 100a may be designed to tions to the party and/or one or more other parties, using one enable the notificationreceiving party to advise the response or more different communication methods, based upon the system feedback analyzer 1 OOa to communicate one or more 55 modified contact data, as denoted in block 133. The com future notifications to one or more different parties that have munication methods, may include for example, but not assigned devices 75, in addilion to the notification receiving limited to, contacting the same or a different cellular or party or instead of same. land line telephone, sending an internet email, sending a As another example, the response system 100 and the wireless text message to a PDA, sending a navigation screen response system feedback analyzer lOOa may be designed so 60 to a computer, sending a notification signal and/or message that the response may indicate to the response system to a television (TV) or computer via a cable modem or feedback analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 satellite modem, sending a notification signal and/or mes that the notification-receiving party will be changing locasage via telex, communicating a message via radio trans~ tions. Therefore, the BS manager 41 should contact a ceiver, etc. different PCD 75 in coruiCction with future notifications that 65 As a specific example of the overall process, the receiving party may indicate in the response that any future commu~ is situated where the party will be in the future, for example but not limited to, a different telephone in a different facility. nications should be forwarded to a different communications Exhibit A Page 91
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PCD 75. For example, in the case of a touch-tone telephone, the "'#" button may be assigned to indicate that the party has in fact received the notification, and the "5" button could be assigned to the fUnction of indicating that the communication method is to be changed. Furthermore, having the party depress the "2" key after depression of # and 5, could be used to advise the BS manager 41 that communication method 2, corresponding to a computer, should be used in the future.
52
instance, a fingerprint scanner, a retina scanner, and/or key insertion authentication could potentially be employed to verify the appropriateness of the party to produce a response.
Finally, as denoted at block 153 of FIG . .10, the PCD 75 conummicates the party's response to the notification system, or in this example, the BSCU 40. The response may confirm receipt of the notification, may indicate to the BSCU 40 that the notified party would like to have a discussion As a further option, the response system 100 and the 10 (oral, text, or otherwise) with somebody who bas access to the particulars of the pickup/delivery, may enable the notiresponse system feedback analyzer 1 OOa can be designed to fied party to change one or mare tasks (or scope thereof) enable a party to define times (times of day, days of the associated with the pickup or delivery, ancVor may indicate week, etc.) for use of each future communications method or the manner in which future notification communications PCD 75. As illustrated in FIG. 9C, the response system feedback 15 should be commlUlicated to the party, as will be further described below. analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 may be designed to cause the notification system 10 to modify N. Response Failure States contact data, as indicated at block 141, to refrain from 'Ibe notification system 10, such as the manager 41 of the sending notification communications to the party's PCD 75 after receiving a response, until the detection of one or more 20 BSCU 40, can be designed to implement failure states in connection with a request for a response. A failure state events, as indicated in block 142, and then to monitor for occurs when a state of a variable has been reached without occurrence of the one or more events, as indicated in block receiving a response back from a notified party or PCD 75. 143, and then to cause the notification system 10 to initiate Internally, a fi:J.ilure state causes the system 10 to terminate one or more other future notification communications to the party andlor one or more other parties, using one or more 25 notification communication attempts and/or to take one or more actions to accommodate the failure to receive a communication methods, as denoted at block 144. The one response. A failure state can also be shown on a screen or or more events can include, for example but not limited to, otherwise indicated to the operator of a PCD 75 (see FIGS. detection that the MT 17 is about to arrive at, is at, and has 25A through 25D; the one being tracked and/or the one left a particular location or has moved a prescribed distance, manual or automatic actuation of a switch on the MT 17 or 30 being notified). A failure state can be system-defined or user-defined, and can be stored in user data table 68b (FIG. at a location where the MT 17 visits, a certain time of the day SA) and/or failure state data table 68/ (FIG. SA). has been achieved, a time period has lapsed since the last A set of nonlimiting examples of failure state variables are notification communication, cancellation of a package delivas follows: (a) a time period variable (FJG. 25A) pertaining ery or pickup, cancellation of an expected stop of an MT 17 at a stop location, delay of an expected stop of an MT 17 at 35 to the amount oftime that has elapsed since invocation of the notification; when the time period variable has expired, it a stop location, another communication from the party triggers a failure state in the PCD 75k:, (b) a distance variable indicating that future notifications are welcome, etc. Detecpertaining to the distance traveled by the tracked PCD 75k tion may occur by actually monitoring travel of the MT 17 (FIG. 25B) since invocation of the notification; when the or by reviewing data corresponding with travel. 2. Response System Feedback Mechanism 40 PCD 75k has traversed a prescribed distance that is monitored with the distance variable, then a failure state can be FIG. 10 shows the high level steps taken by the PCD 75 invoked in the moving/tracked PCD 7Sk; (c) a predeterin connection with the foregoing embodiments of the mined location variable (FJG. 25C) pertaining to a location response system feedback analyzer 100a. Some devices 75 to be traversed by the moving/tracked PCD 15k; in other may already be configured with the appropriate functionality, while others may need to be configured to exhibit the 45 words, once the PCD 15k determines that it has reached this predetermined location, then a failure state will result; and functionality and operate as shown in FIG. 10. For example, (d) an acceptance variable (FIG. 250) which tracks the in the case where a conventional touch-tone tCk1Jhonc is to number of responses and/or acceptances associated with be used as the PCD 75 and where dual-frequency key stroke notification communications; this is useful in a configuration tones are to be used to convey instructions to the BSClJ 40, the telephone already has the requisite functionality to so where a number of parties have been invited to visit a particular location (e.g., a restaurant), and there are only a perform the steps illustrated in FIG. 10. limited number of openings; as an example, the system can First, the PCD 75 receives the notification communication be set to accept the first party to respond to the notification from the BSCU 40, as denoted by block 151 in FIG. 10. and invoke a failure state in connection with all other Accordingly, the party associated with the PCD 75 is given a notification with respect to the MT, e.g., the mobile MT 17. ss notifications (which can be communicated, if desired, to the other PCDs 75 that responded late). Next, the PCD 75 receives an input response, e.g., depression of one or more keys, a voice command, swiping of a Once a failure state has been determined by the manager magnetic strip of a card through a card reader, etc., from the 41, the manager 41 may be designed to implement one or party associated with the PCD 75, as indicated at block .152 more of the following actions: look for additional instrucof FIG. 10. The input from the party to the PCD 75 can be 60 tions to notify the next person on a contact or route Jist, tzy manually or automatically accomplished, but it is desirable different contact information for the same individual, or to implement a mechanism that shows that the party that is utilize this information to re-route drivers to another desti~ supposed to be associated with the PCD 75 has received the nation; automatically notify another user of this failure state notification communication by way of the PCD 75. event; and/or automatically notify third party companies For security, it may be desirable to have the notification- 65 providing additional services, such as but not limited to, nxeiving party identified (perhaps even uniquely identified) transportation services, that there has been a notification as one who is authorized or permitted to send a response. For failure. Exhibit A Page 92
US 7,119,716 B2
53
54
0. Advertisement Methods of Doing Business In Connecpracticed in connection with this method. For example, the fee may be charged for each advertisement in each notifition With Notification Services cation, for a block of advertisements, or for the advertiseVarious advertisement methods of doing business can be implemented in connection with the notification services, for ment service in generaL As yet ruwther example, a discount on the advertisement service may be offered or extended example, those described hereinbefore. based upon a purchase of a predetermined number. One such advertisement method of doing business, among others, is illustrated in FIG. 11 and can be broadly summaIn alternative embodiments, the stop location of the MT rized by the following steps (not nt.'Cessarily in this orde-r): 17 and/or the location of the user and/or PCD 75 can be (a) monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as determined and taken into account with respect to adver indicated by reference numeral 161; (b) contacting a party 10 tisements. See next section tOr a discussion of t11e location based upon the travel data, as indicated by reference numeral detennination of the user, PCD 75, and/or stop location. 162; (c) providing an advertisement to the party substanWith this location information, the advertisements can be tially during the contact, as indicated by reference numeral selected based upon the geographical location of the user, 163; and (d) charging a fee or monetarily benefiting from PCD 75, and/or stop location. As an example, advertise~ providing the advertisement, as indicated by reference 15 ments can be sorted in a database based upon the geographiw numeral 164. 'Jbere are various alternatives and optional cal areas to which they pertain. Then, if it is detennined that the PCD 75 or that the stop location is near the intersection steps that may be practiced in connection with this method. For example, the fee may be charged for each advertisement of First Street and 1(Yh Street, then the advertisement data~ base can be accessed for those advertisements that pertain to in each notification, for a block of advertisements, or for the advertisement service in generaL As yet another example, a 20 the vicinity around First Street and lO'h Street. For instance, the database might include an adverti~ement about Pizza discount on the advertisement service may be offered or extended based upon a purchase of a predetermined number. Hut, and there might be a Pizza Hut that is located one block A.n advertisement database 68/(FIG. SA) can be disposed from this intersection. In this case, the manager .14 may be designed to select the Pizza Hut advertisement and commuwithin the BS manager 41 or communicatively coupled to same to enable the manager 41 to initiate an advertisement 25 nicate this to the PCD 75 because the PCD 75 is in close proximity to the Pizza Hut that is at issue. Also, the system at an appropriate time during a communication with a PCD may be designed to forward directions to the Pizza Hut to the 75. The advertisement can be conveyed by voice commu~ PCD 75 before, during, or after the advertisement is effec~ nication, by text communication, by visual presentation on tuated at the PCD 75. a screen (e.g., an email with an accompanying advertise~ In alternative embodiments, the timing of the notification menl, etc.), or by other meru1s. 30 Another advertisement method of doing business, among communication may be taken into account when advertise others, is illustrated in FIG. 12 and can be broadly summaments are selected from a database for communication to the PCD 75. For example, the hours when a store is open may rized by the following steps (not necessarily in this order): be tracked in the advertisement database. Further, when a (a) enabling a party to indicate a willingness to receive one or more advertisements during a notification regarding an 35 notification commtmication is initiated, it may be desirable to reffain from communicating those advertisements that MT 17, as indicated by reference numcm117.1; (b) providing pertain to s<tores that are closed at the time of the notification a notification communication involving travel status of the MT 17, as indicated by reference numeral172; (c) providing communication. ln this case, the manager 41 could be designed to prevent such advertisements to occur during an advertisement as pa11 of or accompanying the notification communication, as indicated by reference nume.ra1173; and 40 prescribed time periods. Moreover, the converse could be designed into the system, i.e., the system could be designed (d) charging a fee for or monetarily benefiting from providso that advertisements pertaining to those stores that arc ing the advertisement, as indicated by reference numeral 174. There are various alternatives and optional steps that known to be open at the time of the notification communication are communicated to the PCD 75. may be pmcticed in connection with this method. For In alternative embodiment.<;, infOrmation regarding a notiexample, the fee may be charged for each advertisement in 45 each notification, for a block of advertisements, or for the fication-receiving party, for example, a personal profile in user data table 68b indicating interests, activities, historic advertisement service in general. As yet another example, a information regarding prior purchases, traveling, etc., may discount on the advertisement service may be offered or be stored in memory and used to make decisions regarding extended based upon a purchase of a predetennined number. Yet another advertisement method of doing business, so which advertisements to communicate to the PCD 75. among others, is illustrated in FIG. 13 and can be broadly In altemative embodiments, discmmt awards can be com~ summarized by the following steps (not necessarily in this municated to the notification~receiving party. For example, order): (a) enabling <1 party to indicate a willingness to an image of a discount coupon could be forwarded to the receive one or more advertisements during a notification PCD 75 that has a screen, which can be printed or shown by regarding an MT 17, as indicated by reference numera1181; ss the user to the business establishment to which it pertains, in (b) providing a notification communication involving travel order to obtain the discount. As another example, a discount status of the MT 17, as indicated by reference numeral182; code can be forwarded to the PCD 75 via voice or text, (c) charging a fee or monetarily benefiting from providing which can be communicated by the user to the business establishment to which it pertains, in order to obtain the the notification communication, as indicated by reference numeral 183; (d) providing an advertisement as part of or 60 discount. The discount code can be predefined by the accompanying the notification communication, as indicated business establishment and communicated to the notification by reference numeral 184; (e) charging a fee for or monw system 10, which can store it in the memory 30b, such as in etarily benefiting from providing the advertisement, as indi association with advertisement data table 68f cated by reference numeralt85; and (f) providing a discount In alternative embodiments, the waiting times associated based upon the party's willingness to receive the one or 65 with retail establishments, for example but not limited to, more advertisements, as indicated by reference numeral186. restaurants, are monitored with periodic communications There are various alternatives and optional steps that may be between a PCD 75 associated with such retail establishments Exhibit A
Page 93
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and the BS manager 41. furthermore, these waiting times can be communicated with advertisements involving such retail establishments to the notified PCD 75.
56
munication when the MT 17 is an acceptable proximity, perhaps a predetermined proximity or system-defined or user-defined proximity, with respect to one or more stop locations, or has just passed one or more stop locations. P. Stop Location Determination Systems and Methods Based As another alternative, the BS manager 41 can be Upon User and/or Device Location Feedback designed to cause initiation of the notification communicaStop location determination systems (and methods) 190 tion when the MT 17 has already traveled a predefined time that utilize user and/or device location feedback can be period or distance along a predefined route. implemented in connection with the notification systems, for example, those described hereinbefore. Several nonlimiting As another alternative, Lhe BS manager 41 can be 10 exemplary embodiments of possible stop location detemlidesigned to initiate a first notification in order to sense the nation systems (and methods) 190 will be described in detail current location of the PCD 75, make a selection of the stop hereafter. Although not limited to this application, such stop location(s) (and perhaps notify the user of the identity of the location determination systems 190 are particularly useful in stop location(s) during this first notification), and then connection with transportable PCDs that are carried with a lS provide a second notification commllllication at a later time, mobile person, as will be clear from the discussion hereafter. when the MT 17 is an acceptable proximity to the stop I. First Embodiment location (and perhaps notify the user, again or for the first The architecture of one such embodiment, among others, time, ofthe identity of the stop Iocation(s) during the second is shown in FIG. 14A and is generally denoted by reference notification communication). numeral190a. Although not limited to this particular con~ 20 The location data identifying the location of the PCD 75 figuration, in this embodiment, the stop location determinais stored in the database 94, which as mentioned can contain tion system 190a is implemented in the notification system a PCD data table 68g for storing this information. 10 of FIGS. 1 and 3, particularly the BS manager 41. The The location data identifying the location of the PCD 75 stop location determination system 190a, can be configured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized 25 can be generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the PCD 75 or can be generated automatiby flow chart in FIG. 14: monitoring travel data associated cally by the PCD 75 itself or by other remote sensing means. with an MT 17, as indicated at block 191; causing the As an example of a physical action, the party could be notification system 10 to communicate a notification involvprompted (e.g., by voice recording) by the BS manager 41 ing a delivery or pickup task associated with the MT 17 to a PCD 75 associated with a party, as indicated at block 192; 30 to enter a digit on a telephone to indicate a geographical area. For instance, the voice recording could say, "Press one receiving location data tfom the PCD 75 (ultimately from if you are located in northwest Atlanta, press two for the device user, device itself, and/or another source), as northeast Atlanta, press three for southwest Atlanta, and indicated at block 193; determirllng one or more stop press four for southeast Atlanta." Obviously, many other locations, based upon the device location data and the travel data associated with the MT 17, as indicated at block 194; 35 encoding schemes arc possible. In this example, once the party presses one of these telephone buttons, the BS man~ and causing the notification system 10 to commlUlicate an ager 41 via a dual frequency tone decoder is able to identification of the one or more stop locations to the PCD determine the location of the party and PCD 75. 75 so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished For automatic generation of location data, a location at the detennined stop location, as indicated at block 195. Note that these steps can occur as part of the same commu- 40 sensor 80 can be associated with the PCD 75 to determine or communicate location data to the BS manager 41 via nication session or link or in more than one commmrication transmitter 73, network 55, and receiver 72. Although not transaction. limited to tbis configuration, in the preferred embodiment, Although not necessary for implementation, the foregoing the location sensor 80 includes a GPS receiver that receives methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred embodiment is implemented, by software associated with 45 GPS signals ffom GPS satellites. In at least one configuration, the PCD 75 is a cellular or personal communication the data manager 67, such as the monitoring mechanism 69, system (PCS) device and the network 55 is a cellular of the BS manager 41. See stop location determiD.c'ltion network and has computer-based support ftmctionality and system 190 in FIGS. 1 and 3. The blocks of FIG. 14 processing for receiving location signals from the GPS essentially represent the high level architecture of such software. Note, however, that it is possible to have special 50 receiver and communicating location information to the BS manager 41. Examples of such systems are described in the purpose digital or analog hardware designed to implement following patents: U.S. Pat, Nos. 6,360,101; 6,519,466; the same or similar methodology, and such hardware could 6,453,237; and 5,479,482, ali of which are incorporated be associated with the I3SCU 40. herein by reference in their entirety. In this embodiment 190a, the BS manager 41 monitors In alternative embodiments, for automatic generation of travel of the MT 17, as previously described, and stores such 55 location data, other types of positioning systems may be information in the database 94. As mentioned, the database utilized to determine location information for the PCD 75. 94 can employ an MT travel data table 68e for storing such For example, radar could be used to remotely track the PCD information, along with other fields that relate such infor75 and then the rad<1r system could be designed to convey mation to other data in the same table 68 and in other tables 68. The tracking can be based upon timing, distance, and/or 60 position information to the PCD 75 or the base station location information. control tmit (BSCU) 40, for ultimate consumption and analysis by the BS manager 41. "Ibe transmitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG .1), under the control of the BS manager 41, communicates the Tbe BS manager 41 is designed to determine a stop notification communication. The notification communicalocation(s), based upon the location data provided by the tion passes through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 65 PCD 75 and based upon the travel status of the MT 17. The 73 (FIG.1) associated with the PCD 75. Tbe BS manager 41 stop location(s) can be determined based upon any suitable can be designed to cause initiation of the notification comset of criteria. 111e database 94 can be provided with a stop
Exhibit A
Page 94
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location data table 68d for storing stop locations and relating them to MTs 17 that are further identified in the MT data table 68a.
58
In altemative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to communicate, along with an identification of the stop location(s), a code to the PCD 7S that will be used by the contacted party to indicate to a party associated with the MT 17, for example, a driver of the MT 17, for authentica~ tion purposes so that the party associated with the MT 17 knows that the party arriving at the stop location is properly authorized to perform the pickup or delivery. The code can be stored in and accessed frorn, for example, the authenti~ cation data table 68h. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to receive an indication from the PCD 75 that the party is unwilling to perform the delivery or pickup task associated with the notification; and as a consequence, to initiate another notification communication to another dif~ ferent PCD 7S associated with another party in order to request assistance in the delivery or pickup task from the another party. As an example, the 13S manager 41 may prompt the party to press a particular telephone button to indicate a willingness or umvillingness to accept the respon~ sibility of the delivery or pick-up. As another example, the BS manager 41 may forward an HTML page (or other markup language) of code to a computer~based PCD 75 that visually prompts the party to make a selection. 2. Second Embodiment Jn further alternative embodiments, as is shown in FIG. 14B, the BS manager 41 may be designed to perform the following steps: monitoring travel data associated with a plurality (nvo or more) of MTs 17, for instance, first and second MTs 17, as shown in block 201; communicating a notification involving a delivery or pickup task to a PCD associated with a party, as shown in block 202; receiving location data from the PCD, as shown in block 203; determining one or more first stop locations and one or more second stop locations, based upon the device location data and the travel data associated with the first and second MTs 17, as shown in block 204; and communicating one or more identifications for each of the first and second MTs 17 as well as their respective first and second stop locations to the PCD so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished at a stop location, as shown in block 205. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to comnnmicate, an indication of the type of MT 17 that will stop at each location, for example but not limited to, whether the MT 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. This would enable the notification~receiving party to select which mode of transportation to utilize. In alternative embodiments, the manager 41 is designed to enable the user of the PCD 7S to select which of the stop locations and/or which of the MTs 17 that the user wishes to utilize. This can be accomplished using one of the variations of the response system, which have been described in detail previously. Furthemwre, this selection or information indicative thereof can be forvvardcd by the manager 41 to a communications device, for example, device 44 (FIG. 1), associated with the selected MT 17, so that the MT 17 is aware of the pickup or delivery by the user at the selected stop location, Also, if desired, the manager 41 can be designed to advise one or more other MTs 17 that they have not been selected.
As an exmnple, the BS manager 41 may be designed to determine an exact or approximate midpoint location between the location of the MT 17 and the location of the PCD 75 to serve as the stop location. The BS manager 41 can be interfaced with or be designed to include mapping software (many versions of which are commercially available at the present time), geographic information system 10 (GIS) software, or an address lookup table to enable the BS manager 41 to perform the foregoing determination. Mapping software and interfaces thereto arc \Veli known in the art and are commercially available. Also, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,650, which is incorporated herein by reference and 15 which describes an example of mapping software. As another example. the stop location(s) may he selected from a group of predetermined stops (a collection or along a predetermined route), known intersections, known addresses, detected locations, locations on a map, etc., that 20 are in an acceptable proximity to the PCD 75 and the MT 17, at the time that the determination is made. In some embodiments, a selection among of group of possible stops can be made by correlating a maximum device distance requirement (distance between the device 25 and a possible stop location) and a maximum MT distance requirement (distance between the MT 17 and a possible stop location) to the group of possible stop locations. One or more algorithms 98 (FIG. SA) can he provided and stored in memory for this purpose. For instance, assume that the 30 maximum device distance requirement is set at a mile and assume that the maximum MT distance requirement is set at 5 miles. Also, assume that the BS manager 41 has deter~ mined, based upon its database, address Jook11p table, map~ ping programs, or otherwise, that three locations A, B, and 35 Care possible candidates fOr the device user to pickup from or deliver to the MT 17. In this scenario, the BS manager 41 can be designed to analyze the locations A, B, and C to detennine which meet the requirements. It can be designed to select one or more locations that meets the requirements. 40 The RS manager 41 communicates an identification of each of the one or more stop locations to the PCD 7S so that the delive1y or pickup task can be accomplished at a stop location. 11w identification can be any suitable information that will enable the device user to travel to the stop 45 Jocation(s), for example but not limited to, street address information, bus stop location or number, street intersection location, longitude and latitude coordinates, audio or visual description of a place, an image of the stop location, a map image, etc. All of the foregoing can be stored, if desired, in so and accessed from the stop location data table 68d (FIG. SA). Directions to the stop location(s) can also be provided by the BS manager 41 over the communications link to the PCD 75. The directions can be stored in memory and accessed by an appropriate index that is stored in the table ss 68d. Note that computer~ based fu11ctionality for a notifica~ tion system for communicating a map image to the PCD is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,936, which is incorporated herein by rcfCrcncc in its entirety. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be 60 designed to communicate, along with an identification(s) of Q. Stop Location Determination Systems and Methods the stop location(s), an identification of the MT 17 to the Based Upon Timing Criteria PCD 75. For example, the identification couid be a bus Stop location determination systems (and methods) 190 number, visual or audio description, description of the driver or vehicle type (bus, railroad train, tax, etc.), etc. The 65 that uti! izc timing criteria (system defined or user defined via foregoing information can be stored in and accessed from user preferences) can be implemented in cormection with the the MT data table 68a (FIG. SA). notification systems, for example, those described herein~
Exhibit A
Page 95
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59
before. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of possible stop location determination systems (and methods) 190
60
Internet, in response to screen prompts associated with a graphical user interface displayed on the user's computer screen and generated from HTML (with applets, if desired, of this type will be described in detail hereafter. Although not limited to this application, such stop location deteffiliin the implementation) communicated from the BSCU 40 to nation systems 190 are particularly useful in connection with 5 the user computer. transportable PCDs that are carried with a mobile person, as The data manager 67 and/or the monitoring mechanism will be clear from the discussion hereafter. 69 of the BS manager 41 is designed to monitor travel of the 1. First Embodiment MT 17, as previously described. The tracking can be based upon timing, distance, and/or location information. T11e architecture of one such embodiment, among others, Tbe data manager 67 and/or the monitoring mechanism is shown in FIG. ISA and is denoted by reference numeral 10 190c. Although not limited to this particular configuration, 69 of the BS manager 41 is further designed to determine a pickup/delivery location(s) for the MT 17 based upon the in this embodiment, the stop location detcm1ination system travel status and the timing criteria (and in alternative 190c is implemented in the monitoring mechanism 69 (FIG. embodiments, additionally based upon location data associ SB) associated with the notification system 10, particularly in the software associated with the BS manager 41 (FIG. 3). 15 ated with the PCD 75 itself, an originaliy scheduled pickup/ delivery location, or some other location or geographical Ibis stop location determination system 190c, can be con reference). Any suitable algorithms may be employed by the figured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in FIG. 15A, via suitable pro BS manager 41 to accomplish this determination task. gramming: receiving one or more timing criteria corre1bc stop location(s) may be determined from a group of sponding to a pickup or delivery, as denoted at block 211; 20 predetermined eligible stops (a collection or along a prt.'<iemonitoring travel data pertaining to an MT 17, as denoted at termined route), ffom known intersections, ffom a set of block 212; determining one or more pickup/delivery locadetected locations, from locations on a map, from addresses, tions for the MT 17 based upon the travel stahis and the etc. The BS manager 41 can be interfaced with or be timing criteria, as denoted at block 213; and communicating designed to include conventional mapping software to with a PCD 75 associated with a party <:md providing the 25 enable the BS manager 41 to perform the foregoing determination. pickup/delivery locations to the cummlUlications device, as As a simple example of a determination process, the BS denoted at block 214, so that pickup or delivery can be accomplished in accordance with the timing criteria at a slop manager 41 could select the next stop or next two stops location. along a predetermined route associated with a delivery The timing criteria can be, fOr example but not limited to, 30 vehicle when it will arrive at such stop or stops within a specified timing criterion, e.g., 30 minutes. a time of the day, a period of time during the day (e.g., 2:00 In some embodiments, a selection among a group of pm to 4:00pm, daytime, nighttime, etc.), days of the week, weeks of the month, a period of time to elapse ffom the time possible stops can be made by correlating a maximum that the timing criteria are made known to the notification device time requirement (time that it will take a person system (e.g., in 3 hours), an indication of ASAP (as soon as 35 carrying the device to travel the distance between the device and a possible stop location) and a maximum MT time possible), etc. In the preferred embodiment, the timing requirement (time that it will take the MT 17 to travel the criteria are communicated to the BS manager 41 by the user and are stored in user data table 68b of the database 94 (FIG. distance between the MT 17 and a possible stop location) to the group of possible stop locations. For instance, assume SA). The entity that owns and/or operates the notification 40 that the timing criterion is set at 15 minutes, that the BS system 10 or notification service could even practice a manager 41 has determined, based upon its database, mapbusiness method involving charging a user for delivering to ping programs, or othen:vise, that three locations A, B, and or enabling pickl!p at a location that was not originally Care possible candidates for the device user to pickup from or deliver to the MT 17, Lhat the maximum device time scheduled or charging different fees to a user for difierent degrees of notification immediacy or charging for fbcilitat- 45 requirement fOr locations A, B, and C are 10, 16, and 20 ing a delivery or pickup. For example, the entity could minutes, respectively, and that the maximum MT time requirement for locations A, B, and C arc 5, 11, and 9 charge more for ASAP service than for a service having a timing requirement of within 24 hours. A stratified billing minutes, respectively. In this scenario, the BS manager 41 schedule could be implemented, for example, similar to the can be designed to select location A, because the timing mam1er in which the U.S. Postal Service charges for mail 50 criterion will be met. services: overnight is one charge, two-day service is another, In altemative embodiments, the stop location(s) may be etc. selected from locations that are in an acceptable proximity Note that, with the stop location determination system to the PCD 75 and the MT 17, at the time that the dctenni190c, a user can meet a driver of a vehicle at any one of a nation is made, but which would satisfy the one or more number of vehicle stops along a route traveled by the 55 timing criteria. In these alternative embodiments, the loca~ vehicle. As an example, a party may wish to meet a driver tion of the PCD 75 can be assumed, in general, based upon and obtain a package as soon as possible. lbis system 190c the home address, work address, telephone number allows the party to interact with the driver/vehicle at an exchange associated with the PCD 75, etc., associated with appropriate vehicle stop (address or map based location) that the user, could be determined using a location sensor situmeets the timing criterion, perhaps one that was not origi- 60 ated on the PCD 75 (as previously described), could be nally intended by the party or driver. based upon other configuration data provided by the user, ln this embodiment 190c, the massage manager 82 of the etc. BS manager 41 receives the one or more timing criteria When a notification commlmication is to occur, the trans corresponding to a pickup or delivery and stores this infor mitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), under the mation in the user data table 68b. The timing criteria can be 65 control of the BS manager 41, communicates the notification communicated to the BS manager 41 via any suitable means, communication. The notification communication passes fbr example but not limited to, via a computer over the through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 (FIG .1) Exhibit A
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tions device, so that pickup or delivery can be accomplished in accordance with the timing criteria, as denoted at block 224. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be 5 designed to conununicate, an indication of the type of MT 17 that will stop at each location, for example but not limited to, whether the MT 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. This would enable the notification-receiving party to select which mode of transportation to utilize. 10 In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 is designed to enable the user of the PCD 75 to select which of the stop locations and/or which of the MTs 17 that the user wishes to utilize. This can be accomplished using one of the variations of the response system, which have been 15 described in detail previously. Furthermore, this selection or information indicative thereof can be forwarded by the BS manager 41 to a communications device, for example, device 44 (FIG. 1), associated with the selected MT 17, so that the MT 17 is aware of the pickup or delivery by the user zo at the selected stop location. Also, if desired, the BS manager 41 can be designed to advise one or more other MTs 17 that they have not been selected.
associated with the PCD 75. The BS ma!lager 41 can be designed to cause initiation of the notification communication when a suitable MT 17 is an acceptable proximity, perhaps a predetennined proximity or system-defined or user-defined proximity, with respect to one or more stop locations. As another alternative, the BS manager 41 can be designed to cause initiation of the notification communication when a suitable MT 17 has already traveled a predefined time period along a predefined route. The BS m.:mager 41 commtmicates an identification of the stop location(s) to the PCD 75 so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished at a stop location. The identification can be any suitable information that will enable the device user to travel to the stop location(s), for example but not limited to, street address information, bus stop location or number, street intersection location, longitude and latitude coordinates, audio or visual description of a place, an image of the stop location, a map image, etc. Directions to the stop location(s) can also be provided by the BS manager 41 over the communications link. In altemative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to communicate, along with an identification of the stop location(s), an identification of the MT 17 to the PCD 75. For exan1ple, the identification could be a bus number, visual or audio description, description of the driver or vehicle type, etc. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to cmmnunicate, along with an identification of a plurality of stop locations, an indication of the type of MT 17 that will stop at each location, for example but not limited to, whether the MT 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to communicate, along with an identification of the stop location, a code to the PCD 75 that will be used by the contacted party to indicate to a party associated with the MT 17, for example, a driver of the MT 17, for authentication purposes so that the party associated with the MT 17 knows that the party arriving at the stop location is properly authorized to perfonn the pickup or delivery. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to receive an indication from the PCD 75 that the party is unwilling to perfOrm the delivery or pickup task associated with the notification; and as a consequence, to initiate another notification communication to another difM ferent PCD 75 associated with another party in order to request assistance in the delivery or pickup task from the another party. As an example, the BS manager 41 may prompt the party to press a particular device button to indicate a willingness or unwillingness to accept the responsibility of the delivery or pickup. As another example, the BS manager 41 may forward an HTML page of code to a computer-based PCD 75 that visually prompts the party to make a selection. 2. Second Embodiment As illustrated in FIG. 158, the BS manager 41 may be configured to perform the following steps: receiving one or more timing criteria corresponding to a pickup or delivery, as denoted at block 221; monitoring travel data pertaining to a plurality of M'fs 17, for instance, first and second MTs 17, as denoted at block 222; determining a pickup/delivery locations for the first and second MTs 17 based upon the travel status and the timing criteria, as denoted at block 223; and contacting a collllmmications device associated with a party and providing the pick'Up/delivery locations for the first and second MTs 17, respectively, to the communica-
R. Secure Notification Messaging Systems and Methods

25
30
35
40
45
50
s5
60
65
Secure notification mess;:~ging systems and methods can be implemented in connection with the notification systems, for example, those described hereinbefore, to give the contacted party confidence that the notification message is genuine and legitimate. More specifically, the BS manager 41 may be designed to send authentication information to the PCD 75 when a notification is in progress to indicate to the user that the notification is originating from the proper source. The authentication information can be, for example but not limited to, any of the following: a logo, trademark, coat of arms, symbol, predefined symbol or text or numeric code that has been made known to or selected by the party being contacted, specific sound or sounds or music, a distinctive ring as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,313,760 that is selected by the user, image of a vehicle or driver, live image of vehicle or driver, a telephone number that can be called to verify the notification, such as the telephone number associated with a telephone situated on the MT 17 or associated with a verification entity, part of a credit card number, such as the last fOur digits, an image of a signature, such as the signature of the notified party, a public official, or another party, etc. The authentication information can be preset or dynamically progrnmmablc. It can be user defined or system defined. When the PCD 75 is equipped with a screen (e.g., a Sanyo Model 8100 wireless PCS vision picture phone distributed by Sprint, a Sony Ericsson T300 wireless picture phone distributed by T-Mobile, etc.), an image can be sent. When the PCD 75 is equipped with audio capabilities, a signal that causes an audible signnl at the user end can be sent. When the PCD 75 is equipped with motion or vibration capabilities, a signal can be sent that causes a particular motion or vibration signal to occur at the user end. The authentication data can be stored in authentication data table 68h of the database 94 or the data can be accessed remotely, even dynamically during a commlffiication with PCD 75. FIG. 16 shows graphically the secure notification messaging system and is generally denoted by reference numeral 210. As an exemplary implementation, the system 210 is implemented in software in the monitoring mechanism 69
Exhibit A Page 97
US 7,119,716 B2
63
associated with the BS manager 41. The software is configured to perform or cause performance of the following steps: monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as indicated e~t block 231; communicating a notification involving a delivery or pickup task associated with the MT 17 to a PCD associated with a party, as indicated at block 232; and providing authentication irrfonnation 234 to the PCD that indicates to the party that the notification is from an authorized source, as indicated at block 233. Tbe providing step can be perfonned before, during (as pmt of the same step), or after the conununicating step. As is shown in FIG. 16, the authentication information 234 can be stored in the memory JOb, can be accessed by the BS manager 41, and communicated by the BS manager 41 to the PCD 75. In alternative embodiments, among others, a party can predefine one or more authentication indicia to be sent to the PCD 75 during a notification. The RS manager 41 is designed with functionality to permit a party to communi~ cate with the BS manager 41 and provide configuration information, such as an identification of the authentication indicia. Such configuration infOrmation can be stored and accessed by the BS manager 41 in the user data table 68b and/or the authentication data table 68h. As an example, the contact can occur by having the party use a computer or compllter-bascd device to communicate with the BS manager 41 over the Internet, particularly the WWW. Any suitable graphical user interface can be employed to enable communications. U.S. Pat. No. 6,411, R91 describes systems and methods for enabling interactions between a party using a computer and a base station computer associated with a notification system, the description of which is incorporate herein by reference. These systems and methcxls can be employed in the context of this example. As another example, the contact can occur by having the party use a conventional telephone to communicate with the BS m<mager 41 over the PSTN. In connection with snch a telephone link, any suitable interactive voice response (IVR) system or dual-tone encoding scheme may be utilized to commm1icate information. U.S. Pat. No. 5,657,010 describes systems and methods tOr enabling interactions between a party using a telephone and a base station computer associated with a notification system, the description of which is incorporate herein by reference. These systems and methods can be employed in the context of this example. In further alternative embodiments, a link may be provided by the BS manager 41 with the authentication inforM mation to enable the party to certify that the authentication information is from an authorized source. For example, the link may be a hyperlink to a server on the Internet. The party can select the link to communicate with the server to certify that the authentication information is from the authorized source. As an example, a certifiable image may be utilized. More specifically. an image is communicated to the PCD 75 and the user of the PCD 75 can have the content of the image certified or verified as originating from an authorized source. Jn one such embodiment, the image (captured live via digital camera or prerecorded) is a pich1re of a mobile vehicle driver that is commlUlicated to a computer-based PCD 75 during the notification communication. The image is embedded in HTML, XML, or some other markup language with java applets. A hyped ink is provided so that the device user can click on, or select, the image or select the hyperlink, which causes the image to be sent to a remote certification/ verification server on the Internet. The certification/verification server can be part of the notification system or a
64
separate entity. The server compares the image with an image of the driver that is stored in a local accessible database. When it matches or does not match, the server is designed to communicate such message back to the PCD 75 indicating the match or norunatch, respectively. As another example, a certifiable code may be utilized. In this example, the certification/verification server has a list of authorized codes in its database that are authorized to be used by the notification system/service. The seiVer compares 10 the incoming code with a code that is stored in an accessible database. When it matches or does not match, the server is designed to communicate such message back to the PCD 75 indicating the match or nonmatch, respectively. As another alternative embodiment, the MT 17 may be 15 equipped with one or more digital cameras (or the cameras may be disposed remote from the MT 17) for capturing an image, series of images, and/or video (real time live or delayed) of the MT 17, of a person (e.g., a driver) or thing situated within the MT 17, or of something outside the MT 20 17 and for communicating the image or video to a website server on the World Wide Web (Y{WW) of the Jntemet. Moreover, the authentication information may include a hyperlink to the website server on the WWW of the Internet so that the notification-receiving party can view the image or 25 video taken from the MT 17. FIG. 16A shows a possible screen message that can be driven to (such as over the internet) and shown on a notified PCD 75 during a notification communication. The screen has an image 235 of the party associated with the MT 17 30 who will be arriving at the stop location. Also, with this example, a response system, as described previously in this document, is implemented. More specifically, the notified party is prompted: "Please reply to this message for additional verification, to cancel the arrival, or to reschedule." 35 Hyperlinks can be associated with each of the foregoing sentence elcments, so that when the recipient selects one, the BSCU 40 receives the selection and can act accordingly. S. Mobile 'Thing Determination Systems and Methods 1. First Embodiment Mobile thing determination systems (and methods) 250 can be implemented in connection with the notification systems, for example, those described hereinbefore. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of possible MT deter45 mination systems (and methods) 250 will be described in detail hereafter. Although not limited to these applications, such determination systems 250 are particularly useful in connection with transportable PCDs that are carried with a mobile person and in connection with transportation serM 50 vices, like taxicab services, that have a number of vehicles and stop locations that can be anywhere, as will be clear from the discussion hereafter. The architecture of one such embodiment, among others, is shown in fiG. 17A and is generally denoted by reference 55 numeral 250a. Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this embodiment, the MT determination system 250a is implemented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS manager 41. The MT determination system 250a, is configured to implement tl1c following 60 methodology, as is summariz.ed by flow chart in FJG.17A: pennitting a party to identify a pickup location, a dropoff location, and one or more user notification preferences, as indicated at block 251; identifying an MT 17 based upon the identity of the pickup location, the dropofflocation, or both, 65 as indicated at block 252; and communicating an identity of the MT when appropriate, pursuant to the one or more notification preferences, as indicated in block 253. Nate that 40
Exhibit A
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lite transceiver, personal data assistant (PDA), pager, any these steps can occur as part of the same communication addressable communications device on the internet, etc. session or link or in more than one communication trans action. Both a signal and a message m<Jy be sent to the target Additionally and optionally, the MT determination system communications device, for example, a ring signal and a text 250a (or system 250b) can be further designed to receive an message could be communicated to a PDA, pager, or comidentification or characteristic of a thing during a commuv puter. nication session between the BSCU 40 and the PCD 75, for With respect to step 252, any of a number of possible criteria may be used by the BS manager 41 to identi:f)' and/or example but not limited to, an identity or characteristic of a package or person, to be picked up at the pickup location. select an MT 17 to accomplish the pickup and dropofftask, This infonnation can be used for planning and/or verifica 10 while complying with the user preferences. As an example of the MT identification process in the context of taxicabs, tion purposes. Further, if desired, the system 250a (or system consider a scenario where the user has indicated that one of 250b) can be configured to cause the BSCU 40 to comnmhis/her preferences is to get picked up within fifteen minutes nicate this identification or characteristic of the tlllng to be picked up to a communications device associated with the and that another one ofhis, her preferences is that the taxicab MT 17, so that a party associated with the MT 17 can verify 15 must have air conditioning. Further assume that the BS manager 41 knows that a taxicab having air conditioning is the thing at the pickup location. The identity or characteristic can be any of a number of possibilities, such as a number currently available in the geographical area of the pickup (e.g., bar code munber, Federal Express number. etc,) assolocation and can travel to the pickup location within the ciated with a package, the weight or size of a package, or the specified fifteen minutes. In this example, the BS manager name of a person. 20 41 can be designed to assign the taxicab to the task of picking the user up at the pickup location and dropping the A.Jthough not necessary for implementation, the foregoing user off at the dropoff location. A communication can be sent methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred embodiment is implemented, by software associated with by the BSCU 40 to a conununications device associated with the taxicab, indicating the pickup particulars. the data manager 67 a11d/or the monitoring mechanism 69 (FIG. 58) of the BS manager 41. See stop location deter- 25 With respect to step 253, the BS manager 41 is designed mination system 250 in FIGS. 1 and 3. The combination of to initiate a notification communication and communicate an blocks of FIG. 17A essentially represents the high level identity of the MT 17, when appropriate, pursuant to the one architecture of such software. Note, however, that it is or more notification preferences. In the preferred embodi ment, the notification communication session is initiated by possible to have special purpose digital or analog hardware designed to implement the same or similar methodology, and 30 the BS manager 41 when the MT 17 is at a particular locution, is within a particular geographical region, or is such hardware could be associated with the BSCU 40. within a particular proximity of the dropoff location, using Pickup and dropoff locations can be stored and accessed the monitoring systems and algorithms described previously in the stop location data table 68d. Identification ofMTs can be stored and accessed in the MT data table 68a. Further, in this document. During the notification communication session, the MT user notification preferences can be stored and accessed in 35 the user data table 68b. 17 can be identified with a vehicle number, with a description of a vehicle type, color, etc., with reference to a logo on More specifically, with respect to step 251, the BS manthe MT, with a digitized picture or video of the M1~ or in ager 41 is designed to permit a party to identify a pickup some other way. location, a dropofl' location, and one or more notification preferences. The communication can occur via any suitable 40 The I3S manager 41 can be designed to enable the party communications device and with any suitable user interface, to accept or deny the pickup and dropoff'using the identified MT 17 during the notification communication session or but in the preferred embodiment, the communication is during a subsequent communication session. This can be accomplished through a portable computer-based PCD 75, such as a wireless telephone or PDA. The notification uccomplishcd with a suitable graphical user interface, preferences may include, for example but not limited to, a 45 assUllling the PCD 75 has display capabilities, with an IVR, proximity of the MT to the pickup location (e.g., a distance by touch tone commands pressed by the device user, by between the MT and the pickup location that is to be met other means of communication described elsewhere in this before a notification will occur, a telephone number to be document, etc. used when making the 11otification communication, a time The BS manager 41 can be designed to provide infmmaperiod that it will take the MT to reach the pickup location, so tion concerning the capacity of the MT 17 during the the arrival or departure of the MT fi:om a location, the entry notification communication session, for example but not of the MT into a geographic region, etc.), a particular rime limited to, the number of passengers, packages, or other that the passenger must arrive at the dropofflocation, a time items currently residing on the MT 17, the number of vacant period that the user is willing to expend on the trip (several spaces, seats, slots, etc. sek.-ctions could be provided pertaining to the same or ss The I3S manager 41 may be designed to receive infonnadifferent vehicles), the type or location of seat that the tion regarding an item, for example but not limited to, a passenger would like to reserve, whether a pickup vehicle package, that is placed on the MT 17, based upon it being has air conditioning, the type of security or care that is to be placed on the MT 17 at the pick."Up location, based upon it taken with rcspt.X:t to a package that is being picked up, an being dropped off at the dropo:ff location, or both. This identification and/or when to use one or more commrnlica- 60 information is useful for tracking the item as well as the tions methods , a specification to attempt another commucapacity of the MT to handle new items. Furthermore, a nications device if a first one fails, any of those preferences machine readable code, for example, a bar code or electronic mentioned previously in this document, etc. The communitag (see U.S. Pat. No. 6,144,301), could reside on or in or be cations methods may involve, for example but not limited to, placed on or in the item and read by a suitable reader, such communicating a signal and/or a message to a land-line 65 as a bar code scanner or electronic tag reader, at some time telephone, cellular, satellite, or wireless telephone, facsimile when the item is matched up with the MT 17. Moreover, this machine, computer, television, cable TV transceiver, sate!code or a derivative thereof (e.g., an indicator of less bit size,
Exhibit A Page 99
US 7,119,716 B2 67
a coded representation, an index in a lookup table, etc)
68
The BS manager 41 can be designed to provide infonnation concerning the capacity of the MT 17 during the first could be communicated from the MT, using a suitable communication session, second communication session, or communications device on the .MT 17, to the BSCU 40 for both, for example, the number of passengers, packages, or further processing and analysis, if desired. 5 other items, the number of vacant spaces, seats, slots, etc. 2. Second Embodiment The architecture of another embodiment of the MT deterThe BS manager 4.1 can be designed to receive infomlamination system 250, among others, is shown in FIG. 17B tion regarding an item, for example, a package, that is placed and is generally denoted by reference numeral 250b. on the MT 17, based upon it being placed on the MT 17 at Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this the pickup location, based upon it being dropped off at the embodiment, the MT determination system 250b is imple- ro dropoff location, or both. This information is useful for mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS tracking the item as well as the capacity of the MT to handle manager 41. The MT determination system 250b, is confignew items. Furthennore, a machine readable code, for ured to implement the following methodology, as is sumexample, a bur code, could reside on or in or be placed on marized by flow chart in FIG. 17R establishing a first or in the item and read by a suitable reader, such as a bar communication session between the system 10 and a PCD 15 code scanner, at some time when the item is matched up with 75, as indicated at block 261; during tile first communication the MT 17. Moreover, this code or a derivative thereof could session, pennittlng a party associated with the PC:D 75 to be communicated from the MT, using a suitable cmrummiidentify (a) a communications method for providing a notications device, to tile BSCU 40 for further processing and fication, (b) a pickup location and (c) a dropofflocation, as analysis, if desired. indicated at block 262; identifying an MT that will arrive at 20 3. Third Embodiment the pickup location ibr pickup and tlmt will travel to the The architecture of yet another embodiment of the MT dropo:Jf location for dropoff, based upon the identity of the determination system 250, among others, is shown in F1G. pickup location, the dropo:fflocation, or both, as indicated at 17C and is generally denoted by reference mm1eral 250c. block 263; establishing a second communication session in Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this accordance with the communications method fOr providing 25 embodiment, the MT determination system 250c is implea notification, as indicated at block 264; and during the mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS second communications session, identif}'ing the MT, as manager 41. The MT determination system 250c, is configindicated at block 265. In the preferred embodiment, the ured to implement the following methodology, as is sumsecond communication session is initiated by the RS manmarized by flow chart in F1G.17C: during a communication ager 41 when the MT 17 is at a particular location, is within 30 session with a PCD 75, determining a location (can be a a particular geographical region, or is within a particular geographic area or an approximate location, depending upon proximity of the dropoif location, using the monitoring the precision needed to effect pickup or delivery) of the PCD systems and algorithms described previously in ti-lls docu75; and identifYing an MT 17 to travel to the location or ment. another location that is near the determined location for a lUthough not necessary for implementation, the foregoing 35 pick."Up or deli very based upon the determined location of the methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred PCD 75. embodiment is implemented, by software associated with Note that, in this embodiment 250c, the communication the BS manager 41. See stop location detennination system session that is used to enable detection of the location of the 250 in FIGS. 1 and 3. The combination of blocks of FIG. PCD 75 can be a notification communication initiated from 17B essentially represents the high level architecture of such 40 the system 10 to the PCD 75, based upon one or more software. Note, however, that it is possible to have special criteria defined by a user in user notification preferences, or purpose digital or analog hardware designed to implement can be a communication initiated by the PCD 75 to the the same or similar methodology, and such hardware could system 10. When the latter is implemented, the system 250c be associated with the BSCU 40. During the first and/or second communication sessions, 45 the MT 17 can be identified with a vehlcle number, with a (defined by user preferences) from the system 10 based upon description of a vehicle type, color, etc., with reference to a travel status of the MT 17, e.g., when the detennined MT is logo on the MT, with a digitized picture or video of the MT, at a particular location, is within a particular geographical or in some other way. region, or is within a particular proximity of the location. The BS manager 41 can be designed to enable the party 50 The location of the PCD 75 can be determined automatito accept or deny t11e pickup and dropotrusing the identified cally, using any of the techniques described previously, or MT 17 during the first communication session, during the can be determined by prompting the device user to manually second communication session, or during a subsequent enter an identification (e.g., an address, region, stop number, communication session. 1b.is can be accomplished with a suitable graphical user interface, assuming the PCD 75 has 55 etc.) or description of the device location. As an example, the device user could be prompted to enter a text message display capabilities, with an IVR, by touch tone commands that includes the post office address that is nearest the PCD pressed by the device user, by other means of connnWlica75 or to enter the zip code in which the PCD 75 resides. tion described elsewhere in this document, etc. Further, when the MT 17 is identified, it may be selected, Note that the second communication session can occur between the BSCU 40 and a different PCD 75, that is, 60 if necessary, from a plurality of possible Mrs 17, based upon user notification preferences in addition to the determined different from the one involved in the first communication location of the PCD 75. session, based upon user notification preferences. The user As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as can specifY in the first communication session or in some previously described, although not in this context, this other communications session with the BS manager 41, which communication mcthod(s) should by used for the 65 embodiment 250c can be further designed to communicate an identification of the location of the PCD 75 to a comsecond communication session (which is the notification munications device associated with the MT 17. session).
:~~~=ti~:s!~~~~~oc~1~s~~Ds~~s::~~ta~~~~:e~:~o~~;
Exhibit A Page 100
us
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70
As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as ured to implement the following methodology, as is sumpreviously described, this embodiment 250c can be further marized by flow chart in FJG. 17D: causing or establishing designed to conummicating au identification of the MT 17, a first comnnmication session between the system 10 and a such as a number or description, to the PCD 75. PCD 75; during the first communication session, detenninAs with the other embodiments oftl1e system 250, and as 5 ing a location (can be a geographic area or an approximate previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further location, depending upon the precision needed to effect designed to enable the party associated with the PCD 75 to pickup or delivery) of the PCD 75; selecting anMT 17 from accept or deny the responsibility of the pickup or the among a plurality to travel to the determined location or delivery using the identified MT during the communication another location for a pickup or delivery at one of the session or during a subsequent communication session with 10 locations; and causing or monitoring establishment of a an appropriate response from the user of the PCD 75. See second conununication session between the system 10 and response systems and methods described earlier in this the PCD 75 when one or more user preferences criteria document. Purthermore, the BS manager 41 can be designed relating to travel status of the selected MI 17 have been to forward the detected location of the PCD 75 back to the satisfied to notifY the user of the PCD 75 of the impending PCD 75, so that the user of the PCD 75 is aware of the 15 arrival of the MT 17 at one of the locations. system detected location and can confirm it. Note that, in this embodiment 250d, the communication As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as session that is used to enable detection of the location of the previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further PCD 75 can be a notification communication initiated from designed to provide infOrmation concerning a capacity of the system 10 to the PCD 75, based upon one or more items situated on the MT 17 that is to travel to the pickup or 20 criteria defined by a user in user notification preferences, or delivery location. can be a non-notification conununication initiated by the As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as PCD 75 to the :.ystem 10. previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further The system 250d can be designed to cause the second designed to receive information from the PCD 75 regarding an item that is to be placed on the MT 17 at the location or 25 communication session to the PCD 75 (and perhaps to a different PCD 75 pursuant to user preferences) from the dropped off at tht: location, or both. With respect to the system 10 based upon travel status of the MT 17 and former, the item may be equipped with a human readable predefined user preferences, e.g., when the determined MT code or machine readable code that can be read or scanned is at a particular location, is within a particular geog.rnphical and sent to the system 10. As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as 30 region, or is within a particular proximity of the locMion with respect to timing or distance. previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further Further, when the MT 17 is identified, it may be selected, designed to receive an identification or characteristic of a if necessaty, from a plurality of possible :MTs 17, based upon thing to be picked up by the MT 17 at the location, and to user notification preferences in addition to the detennined communicate the thing identification or characteristic to a commlmications device, personal or othcn.visc, associated 35 location of the PCD 75. with the MT 17. As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as ln other alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can previously described, although not in this context, this also be designed to communicate a location to the PCD 75 embodiment 250d can be further designed to communicate that is different than the detected location or approximate an identification of the location of the PCD 75 to a comdetected location of the PCD 75 or that is in an area that the 40 munications device associated with the MT 17. PC:D 75ls detected to be within or near. For example, if the As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as PCD 75 is detected to be near an already existing scheduled previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further stop location for an :MT 17, then the PCD 75 may be advised designed to communicate an identification of the MT 17, of the slop location. An identity of, description of, and/or such as a number or description, to the PCD 75. directions thereto can be communicated to the PCD 75. The 45 As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as device user can be given the opportunity to accept or deny previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further a pickup or delivery at the diftCrcnt location. As another designed to enable the party associated with the PCD 75 to example, tile zip code associated with the area in which the accept or deny the responsibility of the pickup or the PCD 75 presently resides may have been manually commuw delivery using the identified MT during the communication nicated to the system 10 by the user of PCD 75. ln this 50 session or during a subsequent communication session with example, the BS manager41 may be configured to select any an appropriate response from the user of the PCD 75. See suitable stop location that is within the geographic region response systems and methods described earlier in this corresponding to the zip code. docmnent. Furthennore, the BS manager 41 can be designed Tbe user can even be given the opportunity to select between the determined or the different location. The user 55 to forv.'ard the detected location of the PCD 75 back to the PCD 75, so that the user of the PCD 75 is aware of the could even be charged a fee or a higher .rnte for causing the system detected location and can confirm it. MT 17 to travel to the device location as opposed to the As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as diJTerent location (the one that may correspond to em already previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further scheduled stop). 4. Fourth Embodiment 60 designed to provide information concerning a capacity of items situated on the MT 17 that is to travel to the pickup or The architecture of still another embodiment of the MT delivery location. determination system 250, among others, is shown in F1G. As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as 17D and is generally denoted by reference numeral 250d. Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further embodiment, the MT determination system 250d is imple- 65 designed to receive infolTilation from the PCD 75 regarding mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS an item that is to be placed on the MT 17 at the location or manager 41. The MT determination system 250d, is configdropped off at the location, or both. With respect to the Exhibit A Page 101
US 7,119,716 B2 71
72
PCD 75 when the MT 17 is at or within a predefined former, the item may be equipped with a human readable proximity of the location or region, as indicated at block code or machine readable code that can be read or scanned 294. and sent to the system 10. 1be stop location or region can be predetermined or As with the other embodiments oft he system 250, and as previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further 5 dynamically determined while the MT 17 and/or the PCD 75 are in motion. The user can selectively predetermine the stop designed to receive an identification or characteristic of a location or region via user preferences. The system 290 can thing to be picked up by the MT 17 at the location, and to be designed to give the user a stop location or region or to communicate the thing identification or characteristic to a give a number of stop locations or regions to choose from. communications device, personal or od1erwise, associated 10 The system 290 can also be designed to permit the user to with the MT 17. enter longitude and latitude values to specify a particular In other alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can stop location. also be designed to communicate a location to the PCD 75 The system 290 can be designed to determine a stop that is different than the detected location or approximate location based upon the location of the PCD 75. Techniques detected location of the PCD 75 or that is in an area that the PCD 75 is detected to be withln or near, For example, if the 15 for determining the location of the PCD 75 have been described herein. PCD 75 is detected to be near an already existing scheduled Note that the aforementioned steps 293 and 294 can occur stop location for an MT 17, then the PCD 75 may be advised as part of the same communication session or link or in more of the stop location. An identity ot: description ot: and/or than one communication transaction. As an example of the directions thereto can be conununicated to the PCD 75. The device user can be given the opportunity to accept or deny 20 fOrmer scenario, a text communication can be generated by the system 290 and communicated to a pager or PDA that a pickup or delivery at the different location. indicates (a) that the device is within 10 yards of the stop 1he user can even be given the opportunity to select location and (b) that the MT 17 is within 10 minutes of between the determined or the different location. The user arriving at the stop location. As another example of the could even be charged a fee or a higher rate for causing the MT 17 to travel to the device location as opposed to the 25 former scenario, two telephone numbers associated with a telephone could be called, :;ubstantially concurrently, by the different location (the one that may correspond to an already notification system 10. Further, each could have their own scheduled stop). distinctive ring. T. Combined Mobile-Thing-To-Location (MTTL) And The notification system J 0 can track the location of the Devicc-To-I,ocation (DTL) Notification Systems and Meth- 30 PCD 75 and the Mf 17 by using any of the location tracking ods techniques that have been previously described. Travel data Systems (and methods) can be implemented in cormection associated with the MT 17 can be stored in a table 6Be, while with the notification systems, for example, those described travel data associated with the PCD 75 can be stored in a hereinbefore, including system 10, wherein a notification is PCD travel data table 68i of database 94 (FIG. SA). furcommtmicated to the PCD 75, based upon the proximity of 35 thcmiorc, the notifications can be triggered using any of the the MT 17 to a location or region, and another notification previously described techniques and user preferences. is communicated to the PCD 75, based upon the proximity In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be of the PCD 75 itself to the same location or region (or a designed to communicate an identification of the MT 17 to location or region that is in close proximity to or based upon the PCD 75 during one or both of the notification conunuthe same location or region). Several nonlimiting exemplary 40 nications (blocks 293, 294). Furthermore, the system 290 embodiments of such systems (and methods), which will can be configured to enable the party associated with the generally be denoted by reference numeral 290, will be PCD 75 to accept or deny a pickup or a delivery using the described in detail hereafter. Although not limited to these identified MT 17 during the conununication session using applications, such systems 290 are particularly useful in any of the response techniques described previously in this cormection with transportable PCDs 75 that arc carried with 4j document. a mobile person and in cormection with transportation In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be services, like taxicab services, that have a number of designed to enable a party associated with the PCD 75 to vehicles and stop locations that can be anywhere, as will be det1ne user preferences in cormection with the notification clear from the discussion hereafter. communications and to operate in accordance with the user 'lbe architecture of one such embodiment, among others, 50 preferences. For example, among other things, the party can define the predetermined proximity between the MT 17 and is shown in FlG. 18 and is generally denoted by reference the stop location or region for triggering a notification to the numeral 290. Although not limited to this particular cOilPCD 75 and/or the predetcnnined proximity between the figuration, in this embodiment, the system 290 is implePCD 75 and the stop location or region for triggering a mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS manager 41. The system 290 is configured to implement the 55 notification communication to the PCD 75. The predeterfollowing methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in minedproximities can be defined as a point when the MT 17 is at a particular location, is within a particular geographical FIG.18: (a) monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17 in relation to a location or region, as indicated at block 291; region, or is within a particular proximity of the stop (b) monitoring travel data associated with a PCD 75 in location in terms of timing, distance, or a combination relation to the location or geographic region (or a location or 60 thereof. In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be region that is in close proximity to or based upon the same location or region), as indicated at block 292; (c) causing a designed to provide information concerning a capacity of notification communication to be initiated to the PCD 75 items situated on the MT 17. This type ofinfi:nmation would when the PC:D 75 is at or is within a predetermined proxbe communicated from the MT 17 to the system 10, directly imity of the location or region, as indicated at block 293; and 65 or indirectly. before, during, or after the forgoing causing step, causing a In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be different notification communication to be initiated to the designed to rt-'Ceive information regarding an item that is
Exhibit A Page 102
US 7, I 19,716 B2
73
placed on the MT 17 at the stop location or dropped off of the MT 17 at the stop location, or both. A machine readable code can be disposed on the item and can be read when the item is introduced onto or dropped off of the MT 17. The information communicated to the system :1 0 can be the code or a derivative thereof. In altemative embodiments, the system 290 can be designed to select the !viT 17 from a plurality of MTs 17, based upon userdefined or systemdefmed notification pref-
74
As with this embodiment and the others described in this section, the traffic flow predicament data can be stored in a traffic flow predicament data table(s) 68j in the database 94 (FIG. SA) and accessed by the message manager 82 (FIG. SB). The traffic flow predicament data can take a variety of forms, and it c<.m be systemdefined, user-defined, or a combination thereof. As a nonlimiting example, the traffic flow predicament data can take the form of time periods during the day correlated to a road segment, indicating how long it should take a motor vehicle under normal circrunstances to traverse that road segment during the different time periods. As one way to accomplish this, in a traffic flow predicament data table(s) 68j (PIG. SA), the following could be a record of fields (or this information could be related and retrieved from several tables or sub-tables): ROAD~SEGMENT-044, TIME-OF-DAY-6-7, TRAVERSAL-TIME-PERIOD. The first of the foregoing fields identifies the road segment as number 044, which is Main Street in this example, 'I1w second field identifies the time period of the day, i.e., 6:00 am to 7:00am, and this information is correlated with the road segment 044. 'lb.e third field identifies the time period to traverse the segment 044 when this type of traffic flow is in existence. As a specific example of traffic flow predicament data and how it can be used to effect the timing of a notification, consider the following. It may take 10 minutes to traverse Main Street at betl.veen 6:00am and 7.00 am, but it may take 30 minutes to traverse Main Street between 7:00 am and 9:00am. So, continuing this example, assume that the stop location for the vehicle is at the end of Main Street, assume that the user preferences indicate that the user would like to be notified 10 minutes prior to arrival of the vehicle at the stop location, assmne that the vehicle has just arrived at the beginning of Main Street, and assume that it is 8:30 am. With these assumptions, the ns manager 41, particularly, the message manager 82 (FIG, 5B) can be designed to wait to make the notification until it is detected that the vehicle is 2h of the way through Main Street. However, if the time of day were 6:30 am, then the BS manager 41 can be designed to make the notification, at once, when it is detected that the vehicle started on Main Street. Carrying this example funher, the BS manager 41 could be designed to, recognize that Main Street is wet and slick, and therefore, initiate five minutes later any notification communication corresponding to any MT 17 that must traverse Main Street (because it will take five minutes longer for the MT 17 to traverse Main Street. As a further example of traffic flow predicament data, the traffic How predicament data could include the real time detection of an accident, the knowledge of construction work, the knO\vledge of a reduced speed limit due to road work or some other reason on a road segment and its effect on traffic flow (e.g., one of three lanes may be blocked, so it will take 33% longer for a motor vehicle to traverse the road segment, the speed limit is now 25 mph instead of 45 mph, etc.). As one way to accomplish this, in a traffic flow predicam<.mt data table(s) 68) (FIG. SA), the follo\Ving could be a set of fields that can be related and retrieved: ROADSEGMENT-044, TRAFFIC-FLOW-02, TRAVERSALTIME~PERIOD. T11e first of the aforementioned fields identifies the road segment as number 044. The second field identifies the number oflancs that are open, i.e., two of three lanes are open for traffic flow (there are other entries that include TRAFFIC-FLOW-OJ and TRAFFIC-FLOW-03), and this infonnation is correlated with the road segment 044.
erences,
10
ln alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be designed to receive from the PCD 75 an identification or characteristic of a thing to be picked up at the stop location. Moreover, the system 290 can optionally be designed to coirununicate the thing identification or characteristic to a 15 communications device associated with the MT 17. In alternative embodiments, the notification system "I 0 can employ the f1mctionality described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,101 for trdcking the proximity of the PCD 75 to the 20 location or region and issuing a notification to lh~ PCD 75. U.S. Pat. No, 6,360,101, which is incorporated herein by reference, describes a GPS-receiver-equipped mobile communications device, such as a ccilular telephone, that determines its ctllTCnt location and compares the current location 25 of one or more target locations. When the device is at or near one of the target locations, then the device annunciates its arrival by generating an audible alarm, or displays or transmits a predetermined anival message. The target location(s) can be entered manually at the device with the keypad, can 30 be obtained via a positioning receiver, or can be loaded via a server connected to a communications network. U. NotifiC"ations Based Upon Traffic Flow Predicament Data 111e notification system 10 may be designed to take into account traffic flow and anything that can inliuence traffic 35 flow when determining when and if notification conunun.ications should be initiated. .L\..lthough not limited to this application, this feature is pru1icularly useful when the system 10 is to initiate a 40 notification when an MT 17 is a predefined proximity in terms of time ffom a stop location. This predefined proximity can be system-defined via any suitable programming mechanism or user~defined via predefined user preferences. This feature is also useful to trigger a notification to a user 45 to enable the user to plan for a best transmit route (see third embodiment, hereafter). 1. First Embodiment In one possible embodiment, among others, the BS manager 41 can be configured to implement the following so algorithm, as denoted by reference numeral 210a in FIG. 19A: monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as denoted at block 311; scheduling a notification communication, such as in a call queue in message manager 82 (FIG. SB), as denoted at block 312; analyzing traffic flow predica- 55 ment data associated with a travel path (e.g., a road) to be traveled by the MT 17, as denoted at block 313; and rescheduling the notification communication, such as in the ca11 queue of message manager 82 (FIG. 5B), based at least in part upon the traffic flow predicament data, as denoted at 60 block 314. As can be appreciated by this methodology, the internal scheduling of the notification communication can be initiated later, or delayed, or in the alternative, initiated earlier, based upon the influence of heavy or light traffic, adverse or favorable environmental conditions, etc., so that 65 the systern~defincd or user-defined advance notification is more accurately timed and implemented,
Exhibit A
Page 103
US 7,119,716 B2 75
Tiw third field identifies the time period to traverse the segment 044 when dUs type of traffic flow is in existence. As yet another example of traffic flow predicament data, the traffic flow predicament data could include infOrmation
76
munication session, providing a message indicating a state of traffic flow along the travel path (e.g., there will be a delay and perhaps to what extent, traffic is flowing at an acceptable level and perhaps to what extent, etc.), as indicated at block concerning the environmental or physical conditions asso~ 5 333. ciated with a road segment and the effect of such conditions The BS manager 41 can be configured to store the travel on tmf!ic flow. For instance, the environmental conditions path at issue, which can be, for example, one or more road could be whether the road segment is exhibited by fog, rain, segments (but could also be waterways, airspace, etc., in the snow, darkness, sw1, dryness, slickness, numerous pot holes, case of other vehicles) and can be configured to receive and etc. This information can be obtained via a variety of 10 store traffic flow predicament data associated with the travel sources, including weather report data from a weather path. reporting source, inspection via camera or physical human In some embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be presence, etc., and this information can be entered into the designed to receive (via entry or selection from available notification system 10, either automatically or manually. As options; data can be stored in user preferences data) user one way to accomplish this, in a traffic flow predicament 15 preferences from a user, for example but not limited to, an data table 68j (FIG. 5A), the following could be a retrievable identification of the travel path, a delay acceptance thresh~ set offtelck. ROAfl-SEGMENT-044, ENVIRONMENT-OS, old, which is a metric that can be used to detennine whether TRAVERSAL-TIME-PERJOD. TI10 first of the foregoing the travel path is acceptable or unacceptable and which is fields identifies the road segment as number 044. The second used by the BS manager 41 to tTigger a notification comfield identifies the type of environmental condition of the 20 munication, an identification of a time of day or time period road segment, which in this case is number 05, which during the day, etc. TilC BS manager 41 initiates the noticorresponds to foggy. The third field identifies the time fication communication based upon, not only the travel flow period to traverse the segment 044 when there is fbg. predicament data, but also upon one or more other userAs with this embodiment and others to be described in this defined preferences. section, the travel path to be monitored by the notification 25 More specifically, in regard to the delay acceptance system 10 can be determined by the notification system 10 threshold, the delay acceptance threshold can be expressed or entered/selected by a user. Furthermore, the parameters or in any suitable terms to enable the detennination of whether metrks that can be used to trigger a notification communi~ or not a delay is acceptable. For example, the delay accepcation can be systcm~defined, user-defined (in user prefertance threshold could be expressed in terms of percentages: ences data, such as in table 68b ), or a combination thereof. 30 if trdffic traveling along the path will take 500/o longer than 2. Second Embodiment usual, then initiate the notiflcation communication. As In another possible embodiment, among others, the BS another example, the threshold could be expressed in terms manager 41 can be configured to implement the fOllowing of delay time: if traffic traveling along the path will be algorithm, as denoted by reference numeral310b and ilJus~ delayed by an additional 10 minutes, tht!n initiate the noti~ tratcd in FIG.19B: monitoring travel data associated with an 35 fication communication. As still another example, the MT 17, as indicated at block 321; determining a notification threshold could be expressed in tenns of speed: if traffic time period, as indicated at block 322, by reading a systemtraveling along the path is 45 mph or greater, then initiate the defined or user-defined time period (in user preferences notification communication. data); analyzing tmflic flow predicament data associated In alternative embodiments, the notification communicawith a travel path (e.g., a road) to be traveled by the MT 17 40 tion session can be initiated or triggered based upon, not (for example, hased upon the current location of the MT 17, only traffic flow predicament data, but also upon one or more the ultimate stop location, and the knO\Vn travel path or other parameters, for example but not limited to, at a travel path data, such as map data from a mapping system predetermined time (e.g., at 5:00pm) or during a time period showing how the MT 17 is expected to travel), as indicated at block 323; and determining when a notification conunu- 45 of the day (e.g., between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, after 7:00 pm, in the evening, etc.). As an example, the BS manager 41 nication should be initiated (earlier or later), based upon the can be designed to initiate the notification comnnmication at notification time period, the influence of traftic that is 5:00pm, or in the alternative, between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, derived from the traffic flow predicament data, and other only if and when traffic traveling along the path will take user preferences, if any, as indicated at block 324. 3. Third Embodiment 50 50% longer than usual. As another example, , the BS manager 41 can be designed to initiate the notification A.Jthough not limited to this application, the following communication at 5:00pm, or in the alternative, between embodiment is particularly useful in a case where a party 5:00pm and 6:00pm, only if traffic traveling along the path would like to know if and when travel flow is being will be delayed by at least 10 minute$. As yet another hindered, is acceptable, or is being expedited on a road segment, so that the party in a vehicle can better plan his/her 55 example, the BS manager 41 can be designed to initiate the notification communication at 5:00pm, or in the alternative, route, for example, enable the party to take an alternative between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, only if and when traffic flow route or, enable the party to take the travel path at issue, if is at an acceptable rate along the path as determined by the and when travel flow is acceptable or is sufficiently expe~ delay acceptance threshold, which can be system-defined or ditcd. In this possible embodiment, the BS manager 41 is 6o user-defined. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be configured to implement the following algorithm, as denoted by reference number 310c and as illustrated in FIG. 19C: designed to determine a location or region of the PCD 75 in accordance with techniques described previously in this analyzing traffic flow predicament data associated with et travel path to he traveled by a party or MT 17, as indicated document (see Response Systems). From this information, at block 331; initiating a notification communication session 65 the BS manager 41 can be equipped with suitable algorithms with a PCD 75, bast--d upon the trailic J~ow predicament data, for determining the travel path to be traveled by the party or as indicated at block 332; and during the notification comthe PCD 75.
Exhibit A
Page 104
us 7,119,716 82
77
The BS manager 41 can determine direction of travel by receiving two or more location values from the PCD 75 that are spaced in time. The BS manager 41 can also determine direction of travel based upon a known destination of the PCD 75. From this location and direction information, the BS manager 41 can anticipate travel paths, such as road segments, that will be traversed by the party or Mr 17. As a specific nonlimiting example, assume that a party has given instructions to the notification system 10 to advise the party of any unacceptable road segments when the party starts to retum home after work at 5:00 pm. Further assume that the party can take two difihent routes (which can be communicated to the notification system 10 by the user or determined by the notification system 10 based upon a knowledge of the user destination): (a) from the workplace to First Street to Elm Street to 416 Barker Street, or (b) from the workplace to McClelland Avenue to West Morton Street to 416 Barker Street, or (c) from the workplace to McClelland Avenue to Domino Avenue to 416 Barker Street. In this scenario, further assume that the party and PCD 75 commence onto McClelland. When the notification system 10 determines the location of the PCD 75 to be McClelland, then the BS manager 41 can be designed to select the next one or more road segments that correspond to the one or more possible routes that have been taken and to analyze those one or more road segments in terms of traffic flow predicament data. ln the present scenario, further m;sume that tlle notification system 10 has determined that West Morton Street is unacceptable based upon the delay acceptance threshold and the present traffic flow predicament data .associated with West Morton Street In this situation, the BS manager 41 will advise the party via the PCD 41 of this fact, in which case the party can decide to travel route (c) instead of route (b) to get home. V. Systems and Methods for Monitoring Travel of PCDs and Communicating Messages Between PCDs The notification system 10 may be designed to implement systems and methods for monitoring travel of MTs 17 that are PCDs 75 and communicating notifications and responses among the PCDs 75, as more particularly described hereafter. 1. First Embodiment One embodiment, among others, can be practiced by the notification system 10, particularly in the manager 41, and involves the following methodology, which is shown in F1G. 20A and denoted by reference numeral 340a: monitoring travel data associated with a first PCD 75, as indicated at block 341; causing a notification communication session to be initiated to a second PCD 75, the notification comnmtUcation session including a message requesting a response and a travel starus report indicating a proximity of the first PCD 75 to a location, as indicated at block 342; receiving the response from the second PCD 75, as indicated at block 343; and conummicating the response to the first PCD 75 (the one being tmcked by the notification system 10), as indicated at block 344. Note that the travel data in this embodiment, as well as the others described herein, can be directly related to the device 75, e.g., data that directly relates to the location of the device 75 itself or can be indirectly related to the device 75, e.g., data that directly relates to the location of an MT that transports or is closely associated with the device 75. Further note that in this embodiment, as well as the others described herein, although the concepts are described for simplicity in connection with a first device 75 (the tracked device that receives a response) and a second device 75 (the notified
78
device), the concepts can be employed in cmmection with one or more first devices 75 and one or more second devices, in virtually any combination thereof. In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 s can be designed to enable a first party associated with the first PCD 75 (the one being tracked) to select whether or not a response is requested at all during the notification communication session initiated by the system 10 to the second PCD 75. This can be useful in many circumstances, such as 10 when a delivery vehicle needs a signature in order to drop off a package, and therefore, the delivery vehicle driver, who is associated with the first PCD 75 needs to know whether a party associated with the second PCD 75 will be available at the stop location to sign for the package. A response by the 15 party that gets communicated eventually to the driver will enable the driver to schedule deliveries accordingly. In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can be equipped with functionality to determine whether or not a response is necessary from the second PCD 75. For 20 example, the notification system 10 could track whether or not deliveries need a signature in database 94 (FIGS. SA and 5B), such as in a package data table(s) 68k. For those requiring a signature, the system 10 would invoke a requirement fOr a response. For those not requiring a signature, the 25 system 10 would not invoke a requirement for a response, The notification system 10 can be designed to communicate the status of one or more responses to the first PCD 75. For example, the status could be "Confirmed" for the situation where a response has been received and the notified 30 party is willing to commit to the pickup/delivery, "Unconfirmed" for the situation where a response has been received and the notified party does not want to commit to the pickup/delivery or it is tmclear whether the notified party wishes to commit, and "Waiting" for the situation where a 35 response that has not been received at all from the notified party. In a design where the first PCD 75 is shown the status of multiple notifications, the syskm 10 can be designed to enable the party associated with the first PCD 75 to make a 40 selection of one of the entries, such as by tm1ch tone, touching a screen, voice recognition (TVR), etc. TI1e system 10 can be designed to communicate an indication of the selection to the selected ones of the PCDs 75. This feature would be useful in the context of a delivery vehicle 17 so 45 that the driver can notify the prospective package recipients of the driver's intention to deliver a package to them. In altemativc embodiments, the notification system .10 can be designed to receive a message from the first PCD 75 and communicate the message to the second PCD 75 during so the notification communication session. The message can be virtually anything, for example, "Can you meet me at Piua Hut in 20 minutes." In altemative embodiments, the notification system 10 can be equipped with functionality to enable the party 55 associated with the second PCD 17 (notified party) to select or enter a time for a pickup or delivery at the stop location. The time can then be communicated to the first PCD 17 (tracked party). 2. Second Embodiment 60 Another embodiment, among others, can be practiced by the notification system 10, particularly in the manager 4.1, and involves the following methodology, which is shown in FJG. 20R and denoted by reference numeral 340b: monitoring travel data of a first PC::D 75, as denoted at block 351; 65 receiving a message from the first PCD 75, the message including a request for a response, as denoted at block 352; initiating a notification communication having the message
Exhibit A Page 105
US 7,119,716 B2
79
and a travel status report of the first PCD 75 to a second PCD 75, as denoted at block 353; receiving the response from the second PCD 75; and communicating the response to the first PCD 75, as denoted at block 354. The travel status report can indicate a proximity (.in terms s of time, distance from, etc.) of the first PCD 75 to a stop location, that the first PCD 75 has left a location, that the first PCD 75 has arrived at a location, that the first PCD 75 is in a particular geographic region, etc. The response from the second PCD 75 can indicate a 10 number of possibilities, including but not limited to, whether or not a second party associated with the second PCD 75 is willing to meet a first party associated with the first PCD 75 at the stop location, whether or not a second party associated with the second PCD 75 is willing to accept responsibility 15 for a pickup or delivery at the stop location. The stop location can be remote from the locations of the first and second PCD 15s. The second PCD 75 could also be located at or in close proximity to the stop location, In alternative embodiments, first PCD 75 or the notifica~ 20 tion system 10 can communicate another message during the notification communication session that indicates to the second party associated with the second PC::D 75 one or more criteria for a response to be effective, For example, the one or more criteria may include one or more of the following: 25 a time limit to respond, a travel distance limit associated with travel of the first PCD 75, a limit based upon the first PCD 75 traveling to a particular location or region, or a limit based upon one or more acceptance responses from other PCD 75s. 30 In alternative embodiments, the one or more criteria can be communicated to the notification system 10 from a suitable communications device, such as but not limited to, the first PCD 75, and stored in user preference data in user data table 68b (FIG. 5A). Or, the criteria can be system~ 35 defined via suitable programming. 3. Third Embodiment Yet anoth~r embodim~nt, among others, can be practiced by the notification systemlO, particularly in the manager 41, and involves the following methodology, which is shown in 40 FIG. 20C: and denoted by reference numeral 340c: monitoring travel data associated with a first PCD 75, as indicated at block 361; initiating a notification commllllication session to a plurality of PCD 75s, the notification communication including a message requesting a response, as indicated at 45 block 362; receiving responses from one or more of the plumlity of PCDs 75, as indicated at block 363; and pro~ dudng a list of stops for the first PCD 75, based upon the responses, the lack of responses, or a combination thereof, as indicated at block 364, Although not limited to this so application, the foregoing methodology is particularly useful in connection with package delivery services. The stop list can be produced at the notification system 10, such as in the BSCU 40, at the first PCD 75 that is being tracked (see FIG. 26 and accompanying discussion), or at a 55 computer that is coinmtmicatively coupled to either. If produced remote from the first PCD 75, then the list can be communicated to the first PCD 75, stored therein, and displayed, if desired, to enable a party associated with the first PCD 75 to take appropriate delivery/pickup action. 60 'The stop list can be a list of predetermined stop locations or stop numbers, can be street address, longitude/latitude designations, etc. In alternative embodiments, functionality for accepting a reply from the first PCD 75 and communicating the reply to 65 the one or more plurality of PCDs 75 that have responded can be implemented in the BSCU 40 or in the first PCD 75
80
(which would push the reply back to the relevant notified PCD(s)). As an example, this would be a useful feature in a case where a first PCD 75 associated with a delivery vehicle wishes to confinn or advise a notified PCD 75 or party that the party has been officially placed on a delivery list. Furthennore, a party can indicate in user preferences in table 68b of database 94 (FIG. SA) that the party would like to have a confirmation reply. The travel status report can indicate any of a number of things, for example but not limited to, a proximity (in terms of time, distance, or number of stops) of the first PCD 75 to a location or region, can indicate that the first PCD 75 has left a location, region, or scheduled stop location, etc. The notification communication session can be initiated when the first PCD 75 is within a predetermined proximity of a stop location, region, or a location of the one or more plumlity ofPCD 75s, can be initiated when the first PCD 75 has left a location, region, or stop location, can be initiated when the plurality of PCDs are within a prescribed nlllllber of stops or distance of the first PCD 75, etc. In altemative embodiments, the BSCU 40, particularly the BS manager 41, can be configured to determine whether or not a response to a notification commtmication is necessary based upon the nature of the delivery/pickup (e.g., a package requiring a signature would like to be delivered, and there~ fore, a person needs to be at the stop location to sign for the package, a package does not require a signature and there~ fore a party need not be present to deliver the package, business or residential delivery, inside service or outside service, etc.). When a stop does not require a response, it can be scheduled with the other stops that do require a response. As an example, see FIG. 26. The responses from the notified PDC(s) 75 can indicate (via suitable text messaging, voice commands, depression of keys on a keypad to emit tones, etc.) whether or not a party associated with a notified PCD 75 is willing to accept responsibility fi)r a pickup or delivery at a stop location or meet a first party associated with the first PCD 75 at the stop location. The stop location can be remote from the locations of the first and second PCD 15s. Another message can be communicated by the B.SCU 40 to the notified PCD(s) 75 during the notification communication that indicates one or more criteria for a response to be effective. The one or more criteria could include, for example but not limited to, one or more of the fOllowing: a time limit (FIG. 25A), a travel distance limit associated with travel of the first PCD 75 (FIG, 25B), a limit based upon the first PCD 75 traveling to a particular location or region (FIG. 25C), or a limit based upon one or more acceptance responses from other PCD 75s (FIG. 250). In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be designed to receive the one or more criteria from a communications device, for example, the first PCD 75. Such criteria can be stored in user preference data. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be configured to enable a party associated with the first PCD 75 to select whether or not a response is requested of a notified party during a notification communication session. In the preferred embodiment, the sofuvarc architecture associated with the BS manager 41 implements failure states in connection with the request for a response. A failure state occurs when a state of a variable has been reached without receiving a response back from the notified party. Internally, a failure state causes the system to tenninate notification communication attempts and to ensure that a stop associated with the failed communlcation attempts is not scheduled on the stop list A failure state can also be shown on a screen or
Exhibit A Page 106
US 7,119,716 B2
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82
othen.vise indicated to the operator of the first PCD 75, as is FIG. 23 is a graphical illustration of a possible architecshown in FIGS. 25A through 25D. A failure state can be ture for implementing the direct communications configusystem-defined or user-defined, and can be stored in table ration between a tracked PCD 75 in the form ofan in-vehicle 68b (FIG. SA) and/or failure state data table 681 (FIG. SA). navigation system and one or more other PCDs 75d-75h. The in-vehicle navigation system 75 has functional blocks As illustrated in FIGS. 25A through 25D, a set of nonlimiting examples of failure state variables arc as follows: 425-428 and optional functional blocks 431-433, which can (a) a time period variable (FIG. 25A) pertaining to the be implemented as part of the MT manager 29 or as separate ammmt of time that has elapsed since invocation of the software routines, as is shown in FIG. 23. The Mf manager notification; when the time period variable has expired, it 29 (also see FIGS. 1 and 2) is designed to cause the triggers a failure state; (b) a distance variable pertaining to 10 navigation system 75k to provide a list of locations of the distance traveled by the tracked first PCD 75 (FIG. 25B) interest such as local restaurants in this example. At present, since invocation of the notification; when the first PCD 75 such technology is known in the art. The user is permitted to select a listed item, in this case, the XYZ Italian Restaurant has traversed a prescribed distance that is monitored with the distance variable, then a failure state can be invoked; (c) a has been selected via the user interface buttons that are predetermined location variable (FIG. 25C) pertaining to a rs shown. As shown, the display indicates that a response is location to be traversed by the moving/tracked first PCD 75; being waited upon. Also, the expected time of arrival (ETA) in other words, once the PCD 75 has reached this predeteris shown on the screen in tenus of both time (20 minutes) mined location, then a failure state will result; and (d) an and distance (12 miles). Either or both of the foregoing ETAs can be communicated to the PCD 75d, depending acceptance variable (F1G. 25D) which tracks the number of responses and/or acceptances associated with notification 20 upon the desired design. communications; this is useful in a configuration where a A PCD 75 in the form of a person's networked computer number of parties have been invited to visit a particular 75d at the XYZ Italian Restaurant is shown receiving a the location (e.g., a restaurant), and there are only a limited notification communication ffom the in-vehicle navigation number of openings; as an example, the system can be set to system 75k, which asks for a response, i.e., in this example, accept the first pany to respond to the notification and 25 the party associated with t11e trJ.cked PCD 75k at issue is invoke a failure state in cormection with all other notificaattempting to make a reservation at a restaurant having the networked computer 75d tions (which can be communicated, if desired, to the other PCDs 75 that responded !ate). The text content of the message that is sent by PCD 75k Tn alternative embodiments, the RS manager 41 can be to PC:D 75d can be entered by the user of the PCD 75dusing designed to conununicate an additional message to the 30 any suitable graphical user interface (GUI) and screen plurality of one or more PCDs 75. As an example, this could prompts and any suitable hardware input devices, such as be a description of the MT 17 or of the driver. buttons 441-443. The content is communicated in packetized mrumer with the other content associated with the In alternative embodiments, a status of the responses can be communicated by the BSCU 40 to the first PCD 75. As notification communication. an example of a possible scheme for indicating status, the 35 The text content could also be pre-stored in the memory following text coding cold be employed and could be associated with the PCD 75k and selected by the user using any suitable GUJ and screen prompts and user interface displayed on a display associated with the first PCD 75; "w" for \Vaiting for a response, "c" for confinned indicating that buttons 441-443. a response was received and delivery/pick-up is to occur, and FIG. 24 is a continuation of the example in FIG. 23 and "u" fOr unconfirmed indicating that a response was received 40 shows implementation of response requests and failure and a delivery/pickup is not to occur) states, both of which have been discussed previously. In ahemative embodiments, the BSCU 40 can be As illustrated in FIG. 24, the PCD 75d at the XYZ Italian designed to enable a party associated with one or more of the Restaurant is used to send a response message back to the plurallty ofPCD 75s to select or enter a time for a pickup or in-vehicle navigation system 7Sk. In this case, the person delivery at a stop location, and then this infonnation can be 45 operating the PCD 75d creates a message indicating receipt communicated to the first PCD 75. of the notification and confinning the reservation at a 4. Example Implementations of Tracked PCD to Notified particular time, i.e., 6:40 pm., and communicates this message back to the PCD 15k, so that the party associated with PCD Communications the PCD 75k knows that the reservation is properly schedFIG. 21 is a graphical illustration of an example of a notification system 10 having a base station control unit 40 so uled. A monitoring travel of PCDs 75 and capable of conununicat..nother part of the sofu.vare architecture associated with the PCD 75k is shown at blocks 451-457. Although not ing notifications and responses among the various PCDs 75. limited to this configuration, this functionality in this A PCD 75 in the form of a person's networked computer 75d example is implemented in the MT manager 29 (FIGS. 1 and is shown receiving a notification communication from one of the tracked PCDs 75a75c, which asks for a re:;ponse, 55 2). As is clear, the user of the PCD 75k can indicate that a response should be requested (in user preferences stored in i.e., in this example, t11e party associated with the tracked PCD 75k or otherwise during interaction with PCD 7Sk). PCD 75 at issue is attempting to make a reservation at a restaurant having the networked computer 75d. The PCD 75k can also be configured to detennine that a response is necessary based upon the type of notification FIG. 22 is a graphical illustration of possible ways in which communications can occur between a tracked PCD 75 60 communication (e.g., a package requiring a signature would like to be delivered, and therefore, a person needs to be at the and a notified PCD 75. As shown, one embodiment involves indirect communications using the BSCU 40, while the stop location to sign for the package). other involves direct communications bet\\>'een the PCDs 75. The software architechire further implements failure 1n the latter case, the functionalitv that would have been states in connection with the request for a response. A failure associated with the BSCU 40 is iu"corporatcd in one of the 65 state occurs when a state of a variable has been reached devices 75 or the functionality is distributed across the without receiving a response back from the notified party. Internally, a failure state causes the system to tenninate devices 75.
Exhibit A Page 107
us 7,119,716 82
83
notification communication attempts. A failure state can also be shown on a screen or othen:vise indicated to the operator of the PCD 75k, as is shown in FIGS. 25A through 25D. A failure state can be system-defined or user-defined, and can be stored in table 68b (FIG. SA) and/or failure state data table 681 (FIG. SA). As illustrated in FIGS. 2SA through 2SD, a set of nonlimiting examples of failure state variables arc as follows:
84
in blocks 475 478, there is looping process for determining whether a response is needed for the stop, based upon whether the stop is associated with IS or OS, and for determining whether a response has in fact been received from those stops that require a response. In this example, the two foregoing processes execute concurrently. In this example, the PCD 75c can be designed to retrieve all stops within a particular distance of the PCD 75c (e.g., a (a) a time period variable (FIG. 25A) pertaining to the 3 mile radius), the location of which is known, as indicated amount of time that has elapsed since invocation of the 10 at blocks 471-472. Then, a list is created and iteratively updated, at blocks 473 and 474. Once a stop is tentatively notification; when the time period variable has expired, it added to the route or listing of stops, via blocks 47-474, then triggers a failure state in the PCD 75k; (b) a distance variable the looping process associated with blocks 475 478 ana~ pertaining to the distance traveled by the tracked PCD 15k (FIG. 25B) since invocation of the notification; when the lyzes the stop type to determine if the stop requires a PCD 75k has traversed a prescribed distance that is moni- 15 response and if the required response has been received. Jn tared with the distance variable, then a failure state can be this example, if a stop is OS or if a stop is JS (requires a response) and the response was received, then blocks invoked in the moving/tracked PCD 75k; (c) a predeter473-474 cause the stop to be officially added to the stop list. mined location variable (FIG. 25C) pertaining to a location Otherwise, when the stop is IS and no response was to be traversed by the moving/tracked PCD 75k; in other words, once the PCD 75k determines that it has reached this 20 recf.->ived, then the stop is removed per block 474. Further~ predetermined location, then a failure state will result; and more, system or user preferences can be set so that a stop is (d) an acceptance variable (FJG. 25])) which tracks the classified as IS or OS. number of responses and/or acceptances associated with FIG. 27 is an illustration showing an embodiment involvnotification communications; this is useful in a configuration ing a delivery vehicle with tracked PCD 75c that has a where a number of parties have been invited to visit a 25 predetermined route 505, or stop list, with a number of prescheduled delivery stops, for example, destinations #01 particular location (e.g., a restau!dnt), and there are only a through #03. ln this embodiment, the BS manager 41 or limited number of openings; as an example, the system can be set to accept the first party to respond to the notification PCD 75c has functionality 500 that is designed to cause a notification communication to be initiated to a PCD 75d at and invoke a failure state in connection with all other notifications (which can be communicated, if desired, to the 30 a point when the tracked PCD 75c is a predefined proximity, for example, at or about 30 minutes, from a delivery other PCDs 75 that responded late). destination. Also, the BS manager 41 is designed so that a FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment that can be imple~ failure state will occur if a response is not received ffom the mented, if desired, in connection with a vehicle having a route-or-stop~list device 75c (FIG. 21) that deterUl.ines PCD 15d within predefined time period, for example, 20 whether a response to a notification is needed, based upon 35 minutes, of the notification. Furthermore, the driver associ~ user preferences, system preferences, and/or the nature/type ated with the tracked PCD 75d is notified of the occurrence (e.g., business or residential, inside service or outside serof the failure state or confirmation, for example, via suitable vice, etc.) of the stop. text (e.g., "Confirmed" or "No Response" in the event of a failure state) on a screen associated with the PCD 15d, so In this nonlimiting example, a detemlination is made as to whether the stop is associated with (a) inside service (IS; for 40 that the driver associated with the PCD 75c knows whether example, a signature must he obtained to drop off a package, or not to make the stop at destination #03. FIG. 28 is an illustration showing an embodiment involva person must inspect an item before dropoff, a person must ing a delivery vehicle with tracked PCD 75c that has a personally provide an item for pickup, a user has requested predetermined route 506, or stop list, with a number of that a response from the user must be received before the user is scheduled for a delivery/pickup, etc.) or (b) outside 45 prescheduled delivery stops, for example, destinations #04 service (OS; for example, an item can be dropped off through #06. In this embodiment, the BS manager 41 or without signature, an item is waiting outside a building to be PCD 75c has functionality that is designed to cause a picked up and nobody needs to be present to give the item notification communication to be initiated to a PCD 75 at a to the pickup vehicle, etc.). point when the tracked PCD 75c is a predefined proximity The functionality associated with tills embodiment, as so in terms of distance from a delivery destination. Also, the BS defined at blocks 471--478, can be implemented in the BSCU manager 41 is designed so that a fi:-tilure state will occur if a 40 and/or the tracked PCD 75c. Jn tills embodiment, it is response is not received fffim the notified PCD 75 based implemented solely in the PCD 75c, and the route or stop list upon one or more failure state criteria. Furthermore, the that is generated and periodically changed by the PCD 75c driver associated with the tracked PCD 15d is notified ofthe is periodically communicated to the BSCU 40. Furthermore, 55 occurrence of the failure state or confirmation, for example, in terms of external controls and user interfacing, the PCD via suitable text (e.g., "Confirmed" or "No Response" in the 75c has, as shown in FIG. 26, a screen for listing stops and event of a failure state) on a screen associated with the PCD the type of stop, a notifY button to initiate a notification 15d, which in this case, is in the form of an in~vehicle commtulication, a retry button to retry a notification comnavigation system, so that the driver associated with the munication, a move button to move a cursor on the screen 60 PCD 75c knows whether or not to make particular stops. and/or to move through the stop list, a menu button to move As shown on the screen, two deliveries have been con through various menus and submenus, and a cursor movefinned, and the system still awaits a response involving the ment control with arrows in the center, which can be also be delivery for destination #04. The PCD 75c can be equipped used to scroll through the listing of stops. with suitable programming to enable the driver to scroll In terms of intcmal programming, as shown in blocks 65 through and select (e.g., via arrows on menu button and 471--474, there is a looping process for creating, determinselect buttons, as shown) or otherwise enter the deliveries ing, and/or changing the route or stop list, and as illustrated that the driver intends to make, based upon lhe confrrmation/
Exhibit A Page 108
US 7,119,716 B2
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no-response infonnation pertaining to each destination as well as the distance information provided to the driver on the screen. This selection or entry, or information indicative thereof: can be communicated Tom the PCD 7Sc to the appropriate confim1ed PCD, directly or indirectly via the BSCU 40, depending upon the notification system implementation. In some implementations, the selection or entry information is communicated only to the BSCU 40 for tracking purposes and is not forwarded to the confirmed PCU. FIG. 29 is an illustration of another embodiment involv-
86
of user interface screens to be described in paragraphs to follow can also be generated and communicated to a party in this manner. As shown in FIG. 33, the screen prompts the party to make a decision as to whether or not the party wishes a response to a notification commlUlication. This screen can be used in connection with the response systems and methods that have been described previously in this document This selection can be stored in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data table(s) 68b. FIG. 34 shows another example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods). This screen can be used sepamtely or in addition to the one of FIG. 33. As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connection with nonresponscs (failure states). These selections can be stored in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data table(s) 68b. Reference numerals 605--607 illustrate questions relating to when failure states should occur after a notification and response request have been conununicatcd to a notified party, while reference nwneral608 illustrates a selection for enabling the party to define what will occur when no response is received by the BSCU 40. An example of a screen for enabling a party to select such options is shown in FIG. 39. Referring now to FIG. 35, FIG. 35 shows another example of a possible user interface screen that can be genemted by the GUI of PIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods). This screen can be used separately or in addition to those screens of FIGS. 33 and 34. As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connection with nonresponses (and occurrence of failure states). These selections can be stored in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data table(s) 68b. Reference numeral608 illustrates a question relating to when a failure state should occur after a notification and response request have been communicated to a notified party, while reference numeral 609 illustrates a selection for enabling the party to define what will occur when no response is received by the BSCU 40. An example of a screen for enabling a party to select such options is shown in FIG. 39. Note that, in this example, the party can set the system so that a failure state will occur in the event that a notified party does not respond before the vehicle 17 travels to within a preset nwnber of stops from a scheduled stop location, or destination. With reference to FIG. 36, FIG. 36 sl1ows another example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods). This screen can be used separately or in addition to those of FIGS. 33-35. As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in cmmection with failure states. These selections can be stored in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data table(s) 68b. Reference numerals 621 and 622 illustrdte questions relating to when failure states should occur after a notification and response request have been communicated to a notified party. FIG. 37 shows another example of a possible user inter face screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and
10
ing a delivery vehicle having a PCD 75c, which shows

functionality at blocks 511- 515 that can be programmed into the PCD 75c for updating a stop list based upon whether or
not responses were received. 'l11e software can be designed 15 to show continued and unconfirmed (no response) stops or to show only confinncd stops, as desired, on the screen of the PCD 75c. PIG. 30 is an illustration of an embodiment that can be implemented at the BSCU 40, such as the BS manager 41 20 (F1GS.l and3) or at the MTCU 15, such as the Mrmanager 29 (FIGS. 1 and 3), showing implementation of failure states in connection with responses and nonresponses to notification comnnmications in the context of a delivery vehicle. As shown at respective blocks 542 and 543 and as described 25 previously, failure states can be user defined and/or system defined. Furthermore, failure states can be defined in a number of ways, a fe\V examples of which are indicated at blocks 544-548. FIG. 31 is an illustration of another embodiment that can 30 be implemented at the BSCU 40, such as the BS manager41 (FIGS.1 and3) or at the MTCU 15, such as the MT manager 29 (FIGS.1 and 3), showing implementation offailure states in connection with responses and nonresponses to notification communications in the context of a delivery vehicle. 35 Blocks 56!--568 represent the high level architecture of the software. As illustrated, the stop list can be determined and changed dynamically, based upon responses and nomespouses. Also, a request for a pickup can be introduced into the stop list of scheduled deliveries at any point. 40 FIG. 32 is an illustration of an embodiment of route data 471 and corresponding driver display data that can be maintained and implemented in connection with a delivery or pickup service. The route data 471 can be maintained al the BSCU 40, at the MTCU 15, or at both. The driver display 45 data 472 is displayed to the driver of the delivery/pickup vehicle 17. As indicated at reference muneral 477 in the driver display data 472, the starus of response and nonresponses to notifications is monitored and shown to the driver. In this 50 example embodiment, the status is "C" for confirmed for the situation where a response has been received and the notified party is willing to commit to the pick'Up/delivery, is "U" for unconfirmed for the situation where a response has been receiv(,-'d and the notified party does not want to commit to ss the pickup/delivery or it is unclear whether the notified party wishes to commit, and is "W" for waiting for the situation where a response that has not been received at all from the notified party. Preferably, although not necessarily, the BSCU 40, par 60 ticularly the BS manager 41, is equipped with a suitable graphical user interface (GU1), denoted by reference numeral46 in FIG. 3, to enable a party to communicate with the BSCU 40 via the Internet. FIG. 33 shows an example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the 65 GUI 46 and pushed to the remote communications device via, for example, HTML over the Internet. Other examples
Exhibit A
Page 109
US 7,119,716 B2
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88
There are many possible variations of this concept. For used in connection with the response systems (and meth~ example, the email could provide a plurality of options, one ods). This screen can be used separately or in addition to of which can be selected by the party. Furthermore, there those of FIGS. 33-36, could be difterent charges associated with different delivery As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections time options (e.g., more expensive options for faster service, from a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in etc.). connection with fi:!ilure states. These selections can be stored Further note that this information from the notified party in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in can be communicated to a PCD 7Sc associated with the user data table(s) 68b. delivery vehicle 17 and correlated with other scheduling Reference numeral 631 illustrates a marker that can be moved across a map of streets, for example, via a mouse, and 10 information at the PCD 7Sc. used to select one or more locations on the map pertaining W. Notification Failure Detection Systems (and Methods) to when a failure state should occur for nonresponsivcness that Cause Implementation of one or more Tasks When a on the part of the notified party. The marked location(s) Scheduled Notification Communication is not Received pertains to the moving vehicle 17 that is headed for the stop A notification failure detection system can be imple~ location, or destination, which, in this example, is 1010 Oak 15 mented in connection with a PCD 75 (FJG. 1) that is Lane. scheduled to be notified that will cause one or more tasks to U.S. Pat. No. 6,618,668, which is incorporated herein by be perfonned in the event that such PCD 7S does not in fact reference, describes a mapping system for a notification receive a scheduled notification communication. system that can be used to implement the input-via-map As an example of an application of the notification failure 20 flmctionality illustrated in FIG. 37 (as well as FIG. 38). detection system, among numerous possible scenarios, conFIG. 38 shows another example of a possible user intersider an implementation where a service provider (e.g., face screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and maid, pool maintenance worker, lawn care worker, etc.) is used in connection with the response systems (and methscheduled to provide service at a residential home, and the ods). This screen can be used separately or in addition to 25 service provider is to initiate a notification communication those of FJGS. 33~37. to a PCD 7S at the house. A notH:ication failure detection As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections system situated in or communicatively coupled to the PCD from a party that will be used by tl1e BS manager 41 in 7S can be designed to monitor for the incoming notification connection with failure states. These selections can be stored communication. If one does not occur as scheduled, then the in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in 30 notification failure detection system can be designed to user data table(s) 68b. Reference numeral 632 ilJustrates a perfonn one or more tasks, fOr instance, communicating circle perinH..'ter that can be moved, expanded in size, and/or with another service provider to request service from the reduced in si7.e in relation to the map of streets, for example, another instead communicating with the home owner to via a mouse, and used to select a geographic region on the advise the home owner of the failure state, conununicating map pertaining to when a failure state should occur for 35 with the service provider office, communicating with a nonrcsponsivcncss on the part of the notified party. The security company that can check on the service provider, or marked area(s) pertains to the moving vehicle 17 that is communicating with another party or system, etc. headed for the stop location, or destination, which, in this As anotl1er example of an application, among numerous example, is 1010 Oak Lane. possible scenarios, consider an implementation where a FIG. 39 shows another example of a possible user inter- 4D home owner, after completing work each day, is scheduled face screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and to provide a notification communication to a PCD 75 at used in connection with the response systems (and meth~ his/her home within a prescribed time period, indicating ads). Ibis screen can be used separately or in addition to impending arrival. When the notification connnunication is those of FIGS. 33-38. received during the prescribed time period, then the notifiAs shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections 45 cation failure detection system can be designed to do nothfrom a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in ing or perform one or more steps, such as adjust the air connection with failure states. This screen enables a party to conditioning or heater down or up. However, when the define what will occur in the event of occurrence of a failure notification communication is not received during the prestate in comu;:ction with nunresponsivcness by a notified scribed time period, then the notification failure detection party. These selections can be stored in the database 94 (FIG. so system can be designed to perform one or more tasks, such SA), such as in users preferences in user data table(s) 6Bb. as turn on light switches (because it will be dark when the Reference numerals 644-648 illustrate possible options that home owner approaches since the home owner will be late). can be selected by the party. \Vhen the notification communication is received during the FJG. 40 shows an example of another type of computer prescribed time period, then the notification failure detection network message. As shown in FIG. 40, an eJectmnic mail 55 system can be designed to do nothing or perform one or (email) message can be generated and sent by the BSCU 40 more steps. Moreover, when the notification communication (FIG. 3) over the Internet and used in connection with the is not received during the prescribed time period, then the response systems (and methods). notification failure detection system can be designed to perform one or more tasks, such as communicate with As illustrated, a party can be sent an email by the BSCU 40 during a notification communication to indicate impend- 60 another fire or police station. As yet another example of an application, among numering arrival of a delivery vehicle at a stop location, such as the party's street address. In this example, the notification ous possible scenarios, consider an implementation where communication, in the form of an email sent over the the notification failure detection system is designed to Internet to the party by the RSCU 40 asks the party to monitor a fire or security alann system associated with a identify when the party is available for the delivery. The 65 facility and to determine whether a notification communi information input by the party can be utilized to fine tune the cation is received from a fire or police station within a scheduling of the delivery vehicle 17. prescribed time period after the alarm is triggered. When the Exhibit A
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alarm gets triggered and no notification communication is received indicating that the fire or police department is on their way, then the notification failure detection system can be designed to contact another party, such as the owner, another fire department, another police department, etc.
90
CDROM, etc.). Moreover, the memory 714 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and/or other types of storage media. Note that the memory 714 can have a distributed architecture, where various components are situated remote from one another, but can be accessed by the processor 712.
As still another example of an application. among muner-
The software in memory 714 may include one or more
ous possible scenarios, the notification failure detection separate programs, each of which comprises an ordered listing of executable instructions for implementing logical system can be implemented in connection with cargo ships, tankers, or other ships. An incoming vessel to a harbor can functions. In the example of FIG. 41, the software in the be scheduled to send a notification communication (which 10 memory 714 includes notification failure detection software 710 and a suitable operating system (0/S) 722. A nonex~ can include the ship identity and/or other particulars per~ taining to the ship and/or its cargo) to the harbor master haustive list of examples of suitable commercially available (which typically determines when the vessel will dock and operating systems 722 is as follows: (a) a Windows operating system available from Microsoft Corporation; (b) a sends out tug boats) when the incoming vessel is near and ready to dock. The notification failure detection system can 15 Netware operating system available from Novell, Inc.; (c) a be designed to contact the coast guard or other security Macintosh operating system available from Apple Computer, Inc.; (e) a UN1X operating system, whlch ls available group if a ship is approaching and no notification communication is received after the ship has come withi11 a prefOr purchase from many vendors, such as the Hewlettdefined proximity of the harbor or dock location. In an Packard Company, Sun Microsysterns, Inc., and AT&T alternative embodiment. the notification failure detection 20 Corporation; (d) a LINUX operating system, which is freesystem can be designed to contact providers of services ware that is readily available on the Internet; (e) a run time (unloaders, customs personnel, crane operators, truck drivVxworks operating system from WindRiver Systems, Inc.; ers, etc.) that were intending to meet the ship at the dock at or (f) an appliance-based operating system, such as that a prescribed time or time period, so that t11e service providimplemented in handheld computers or personal data assisers can cancel their trips to the dock and/or take other 25 tants (PDAs) (e.g., PahnOS available flum Palm Cornputremedial actions. ing, Inc., and Windows CE available from Microsoft CorThe notification failure detection system can be impleporation). T11e operating system 722 essentially controls the mented in software (e.g., finnware), hardware, or a combiexecution of other computer programs, such as the notifination thereof. In the currently contemplated best mode, the cation failure detection software 710, and provides schednotification failure detection system is implemented with a 30 uling, input-output control, file and data management, memory management, and communication control and computer-based system that is a combination of hardware and software. An example of J general purpose computer related senrices. thnt can implement the notification failure detection system The notification failure detection software 710 is a source is shown in FlU. 41. ln FIC:i. 41, the notification failure program, executable program (object code), script, or any 35 other entity comprising a set of instructions to be performed. detection system is denoted by reference numeral 701. Generally, in terms of hardware architecture, as shown in Wl1en a source program, then the program needs to be PIG. 41, the computer-based system 701 includes a procestranslated via a compiler, assembler, interpreter, or the like, sor 712, memory 714, and one or more input and/or output which may or may not be included within the memory 714, (I/0) devices 716 (or peripherals) that are communicatively so as to operate properly in connection with the 0/S 722. coupled via a local intcrface718. The local interface 718 can 40 Purthennore, the notification failure detection software 710 be, for example but not limited to, one or more buses or other can be written as (a) an object oriented programming wired or wireless connections, as is known in the art. The language, which has classes of data and methods, or (b) a local interlace 18 may have additional elements, which are procedure programming language, which has routines, subomitted for simplicity, such as controllers, buffers (caches), routines, and/or ftmctions, for example but not limited to, C, drivers, repeaters, and receivers, to enable communications. 45 C++, Pascal, Basic, Fortran, Cobol, Perl, Java, and Ada. Further, the local interface may include address, control, The optional I/0 devices 716 may include input devices, and/or data connections to enable appropriate communicafor example but not lintited to, a keyboard, mouse, scanner, tions among the aforementioned components. microphone, etc. Furthermore, the I/0 devices 716 may also The processor 712 is a hardware device for executing include output devices, for example but not limited to, a software, particularly that stored in memory 714. The pro- so primer, display, etc. Finally, the I/0 devices 716 may further cesser 712 can be any custom made or commercially avail~ include devices that communicate both inputs and outputs, able processor, a central processing unit (CPU), an auxiliary for instance but not limited to, a modulator/demodulator processor among several processors associated with the (modern; for accessing another device, system, or network), system 701, a semiconductor based microprocessor (in the a radio frequency (RF) or other transceiver, a telephonic form of a microchip or chip set), a macroprocessor, or 55 interface, a bridge. a router, etc. generally any device for executing software instructions. If the computer-based notification failure detection sys~ Examples of suitable commercially available microprocestern 711 is a PC, workstation, or the like, the software in the sors are as follows: a PA-RISC series microprocessor from memory 714 may further include a basic input output system (BIOS) (omitted for simplicity). The BIOS is a set of Hewlett-Packard Company, an 80x86 or Pentium series microprocessor from Intel Corporation, a PowerPC micro- 60 essential software routines that initialize and test hardware at processor from IBM, a Spare microprocessor from Sun startup, start the 0/S 722, and support the transfer of data Microsystems, Inc, or a 68xxx series microprocessor from among the hardware devices. The BIOS is stored in ROM so the Motorola Corporation. that the BIOS c.1n be executed when the system 701 is The memory 714 can include any one or combination of activated. volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory 65 When the system 701 is in operation. the processor 712 is configured lO execute software stored within the memory (R.t\M, such as DRAM, SRA.M, SDRAM, etc.)) and nonvolatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, 714, to communicate data to and from the memory 714, and
Exhibit A
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US 7,119,716 B2 91
to generally control operations of the computer 711 pursuant to the software. The notification fhllure detection software
92
X. Other Variations and Modifications In concluding the detailed description, it should be noted that the terminology "preferred embodimenf' herein means 710 and the 0/S 722, in whole or in part, but typically the the one example embodiment currently believed by the latter, are read by the processor 712, perhaps buffered within 5 inventor(s) to be the best embodiment of a plurality of the processor 712, and then executed. possible embodiments. Moreover, it will be obvious to those The notification failure detection software 710 (as well as skilled in the art that many variations and modifications may any other software that is described in this document), as is be made to the preferred embodiment(s) without substanshown in FIG. 41, can be stored on any computer readable tially departing from the principles of the present invention. medium for transportation or use by or in connection with 10 All such variations and modifications are intended to be computer related systems. In the context of this document, included herein within the teachings of the present invention a computer readable medium is an electronic, magnetic, in this document and to be protected by the scope of the optical, or other physical device or means that can contain following claims, A fCw examples of possible variations or store a computer program for use by or in connection with and/or modifications are set forth hereafter, a computer related system or method. In the context of this 15 With respect to variations, note that although not specifidocument, a ''computer-readable medium" can be any cally described for simplicity, any combination of the varimeans that can store, communicate, propagate, or transport ous systems/methods that have been described under headings above may be employed in connection with a the program for use by or in connection with the instruction notification system. For example, use of authentication data execution system, apparatus, or de\1ce. The computer readable m<..-dimn can be, for example but not limited to, an 20 for secure notification messaging can be employed in connection with one of the versions of the response system, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or As another example of a variation, it is possible to semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation implement the systems and methods of this patent applicamedium. tion in connection with notification systems where notificaIn an alternative embodiment, where the noti11cation 25 tions are made from the moving thing itself (those systems failure detection system 701 implemented in hardware, the that do not utilize a BSCU 40 to implement the notifica~ notification failure detection system can be implemented lions). Essentially, the functions associated with the BSCU with any or a combination of the following technologies, 40 arc implemented in the tracked NIT 17. One such system which are each well known in the art: a discrete logic is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,444, which is incorpo~ circuit(s) having logic gates for iUlplementing logic func- 30 rated herein by reference in its entirety. tions upon data signals, an application specific integrated As another example of a variation, MTCU 15 and/or the circuit (ASIC) having appropriate combinational logic gates, BSCU 40 can be implemented within a single computer a programmable gate array(s) (PGA), a field programmable system, across a plurality of computers that are communigate array (FPGA), etc. catively coupled, or within a computer system having a An example of a possible architecture, among others, of 35 distributed architecture, the notification failure detection software 710, is shown in As another example of a variation, the notification system FIG. 42. As illustratt--'d by way of flow chart in F1G. 42, the can be one that notifies a party or PCD 75 after an MT 17 notification failure detection software 710 is designed to leaves or while an MT 17 is located at a location, as opposed perform the following steps: storing information in memory to a notification system that notifies a party or PCD 75 in 714 pertaining to timing, (e.g., a time of day, time period, 40 advance of arrival of the MT 17 at the location, as with the etc.) associated with the scheduled notification communica~ notification system 10 described herein. tion, as indicated at block 731; determining that the schedAs another example of a variation, the BS manager 41 can uled notification communication failure has occurred, based be designed to cause the notification system 10 to notifY the upon the timing information, as indicated at block 732; and user based upon a arrival time and/or departure time data in causing one or more tasks to be performed using I/0 45 a schedule or route of one or more stops associated with the device(s) 716 and/or using PCD 75 based upon the sched~ MT 17, as opposed to basing the notifications on real time uled notification communication failure, as indicated at monitoring of the location of the MT 17. block 733. The tasks can include, for example hut not As another example of a variation, the BS manager 41 can limited to, initiation of voice and/or data communications to be designed to cause the notification system 10 to notifY the other parties or systems, actuation or adjustment of switches 50 user when the MT's :;chedule has been changed or the MI"'s or tnmsducers, etc. stop at a location has been cancelled, as opposed to waiting Note that failure in the context of the notification failure on tracking information to determine delay in arrival or detection system 701 can be defined as failing to receive a departure of the MT 17. This infonnation could be input notification conummication at a scheduled time or time manually by a person or it could come from another comperiod, failing to receive a notification communication when 55 purer system. The software associated with the BS manager the system 701 knows or is advised that the system 701 41 could also be configured to enable a user to configure the system so that the user is notified upon a change and/or should have based upon the MT 17 reaching a location or region or distance from the stop location, or as failing to cancellation. receive proper authentication indicia (which can be stored, As another example of a variation, the notification system accessed, and analyzed in memory 714) during the notifi- 60 (as well as the inventions claimed l1erein) can be employed cation communication session. The authentication indicia, in connection with an amusement park ride, for instance, a roller coaster, water vehicle, etc. PCDs 75 can be handed out or information, can be any of a number of things, for example, a caller's telephone number, which can be comto prospective passengers of the ride, and when appropriate, pared with an incoming telephone caller JD to deterrnine if one or more of the devices 75 can be notified to alert one or there is a match. For other examples, sec the section in this 65 more prospective passengers their departure time (or arrival time of their pickup mobile vehicle) is near, Any suitable document relating to secure notification messaging systems and methods. form of tracking can be utilized. Por example, a passenger Exhibit A
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94
wait list or queue can be maintained and tracked (which initiating a first notification cormnunication to a personal leads to an indirect way of monitoring the mobile vehicles). communications device associated with a party based upon the contact data; As another example of a variation, the notification system receiving a response communication from the party's (as well as the inventions claimed herein) can be employed personal commlmications device; in cotmection with electronic tags on assets (e.g., packages, luggage, containers, etc.) that are being warehoused or changing the contact data based upon the response comshipped to notify a party concerning the travel status of such munication; assets. Typically, an electronic tag has a controller, a transrefraining from sending notification communications to ceiver controlled by the controller, and a memory that is the party's personal conummications device based controlled by the controller and that stores an identification IO upon the change in the contact data; and that can be conummicated by the transceiver. U.S. PaL No. initiating a second notification communication to the 6,144,301, which is incorporated by reference, describes an party's personal communications device, one or more example of a tag and U.S. Pat. No. 5,774,876, which is other personal communications devices, or both, after incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, describes a detection of occurrence of one or more events. system for monitoring assets with electronic tags. The BS 15 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more events manager 41 can be designed lo communit.:ate with the comprises at least receipt of a second commllllication from operations center 13 and/or the computer 14, both described the party's personal conununications device. in the '876 patent, to track the assets and make notifications 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more pertaining to the assets. However, note that any design of events comprises at least expiration of a predefined time electronic tag can be utilized. 20 period. U.S. PaL Nos. 6,408,108 and 6,211,781, which are both 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more also i11corporated by reference, disclose systems that utilize events comprises arrival presence, or departure of a mobile tags to track articles. A notification system (and the systems/ thing with respect to a location. methods claimed herein) can be implemented in the context 12. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more of these tag systems. As an example, notification commu- 25 events comprises scanning a machine readable code on an nications can be initiated from computer 118 in these object. patenrs. 13. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more events comprises actuation of a manually or automatically The invention claimed is: actuated switch that is associated with a mobile thing. 1. A method for communications in cmmectiou with a 30 14. 1be method of claim 8, further comprising the step of computer-based notification system, comprising the steps of: refraining from sending notification communications to one initiating a notification communication to a personal or more additional personal communications devices. communications device associated with a party; 15. The method of claim 8, wherein the step of initiating receiving a response communication fi.'om the party's a first notification communication is performed when a 35 personal communications device, mobile thing is a predetcnnined proximity with respect to a indicating that the party has received the notification location. communication and is now occupied with a task asso~ 16. The method of claim 8, wherein the steps arc per~ ciated with the notification communication; and formed with a single computer system, a plurality of comrefraining from sending any further notification commu- 40 puters that are communicatively coupled, or a computer nications to the party's personal communications system having a distributed architecture. device, tmtil detection of one or more events that 17. The method of claim 8, thither comprising the st<..>ps indicate that the party is no longer occupied with the of: task and can perform another task associated with monitoring travel data associated with a mobile thing; another notification communication. performing the step of initiating the first notification 45 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more events conmmnication based upon the relationship of a mobile comprises at least receipt of a second communication from thing to a location; and the party's personal communications device. performing the step of initiating the second notification 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more events communication based upon the relationship of the comprises at least expiration of a predefined time period. mobile thing or another mobile thing to the location or 50 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more events another location. comprises at least anival or departure of a mobile thing at or 18. A method fOr communications in connection with a from a location, respectively. computer-based notification system and a personal conmm5. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of nications device associated with a party, comprising the refraining from sending notification communications to one 55 steps of: or more additional personal communications devices. receiving a notification communication with the personal 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of initiating communications device associated with the party from the notification communication is performed when a mobile the notification system; thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a location. communicating a response communication from the par7. The method of claim 1, wherein the steps are performed 60 ty's personal communications device, indicating that with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that the party has received the notification communication are communicatively coupled, or a computer system having and is now occupied with a task associated with the a distributed architecture. notification communication; and 8. A method for communications in connection with a causing the notification system to refrain from sending computer-based notification system, comprising the steps of: 65 any further notification communications to the party's storing contact data in memory pertaining to one or more personal communications device, lU1til detection of one party personal communications device; or more events, indictating that the party is no longer
Exhibit A Page 113
US 7,119,716 B2
95
occupied with the task and can perform another task associated with another notification communication.
19, The method of claim 18, wherein the response com-
96
30. The method of claim 29, further comprising the step of refraining from sending notification communications to one or more additional personal communications device. 31. The method of claim 29, wherein lhe step of initiating the first notification communication is pelfonned when a mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a location. 32. The method of claim 29, wherein the steps arc perfonned with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that are communicatively coupled, or a computer system having a distributed architecture. 33. The method of claim 29, wherein the response com~ munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. 34. The method of claim 29, wherein the response com~ munication is generated by physically detecting the presence of the party associated with the personal communications device. 35. A method for communications in conn(..'Ction with a computer~based notification system, comprising the steps of: initiating a first notification communication to a personal communications device associated with a party; receiving a response communication from the party's personal communications device; ref.I<lining from sending notification communications to the party's personal communications device after receiving the response communication: and initiating a second notification communication to the party's personal communications device, one or more other personal communications devices, or both, after detection of the scanning of a machine readable code on an object. 36. Tbe method of claim 35, further comprising the step of refraining from sending notification communications to one or more additional personal communications devices. 37. The method of claim 35, wherein the step of initiating the first notification communication is performed when a mobile thing is a predetennined proximity \Vith respect to a location. 38. The method of claim 35, wherein tbe steps are performed with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that are communicatively coupled, or a computer system having a distributed architecture. 39. The method of claim 35, wherein the response communication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. 40. The method of claim 35, wherein the response com~ munication is generated by physically detecting the presence of the party associated with the personal conununications device. 41. A method for communications in connection with <1 computer~ based notification system, comprising the steps of: monitoring travel data associated with a mobile thing; initiating a first notification communication to a personal communications device associate with a party based upon the relationship of the mobile thing to a location; receiving a response communication from the party's personal communications device; refraining from sending notification communications to the party's personal communications device after receiving the response communication; and initiating a second notification communication to the party's personal communications device, one or more other personal communications devices, or both, based upon the upon the relationship of the mobile thing or another mobile thing to the location or another location.
munication is generated by a physical action taken by the

party associated with the personal communications device. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the response communication is generated by physically detecting the presence
of tl1e party associated with the personal communications device. 21. A method for communications in connection with a 10
computer-based notification system, comprising the steps of: storing contact data in memory pertaining to one or more
party personal communications devices,

initiating
B
notification commurtication to a personal
communications device associated with a party based upon the contact data; receiving a response communication from the party's
personal communications device; changing the contact data based upon the response com~ munication; and modifying a manner in which future notification communications are implemented, based upon the change in the contact data. 22. 'lbe method of claim 21, wherein the step of moW~ fying comprises refraining from sending notification communications to the party's personal communications device after receiving the response communication, until detection of one or more events. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the one or more events comprises at least one or more of the following: reccipl of a second communication from the party's personal communications device; expiration of a predefined time period; or arrival or departure of a mobile thing at or from a location, respectively. 24. The method of claim 22, further comprising the step of refraining from sending notification communications to one or more additional personal communications devices. 25. The method of claim 21, wherein the step of initiating the notification communication is performed when a mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a location. 26. The method of claim 21, wherein the stt.'PS arc performed with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that are communicatively coupled, or a computer system having a distributed architecture. 27. The method of claim 21, wherein the response com~ munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. 28. The method of claim 21, wherein the response com~ mm1ication is genemted by physically detecting the presence of the party associated with the personal communications device. 29. A method for communications in connection with a computer-based notification system, comprising the steps of: initiating a first notification conununication to a personal communications device associated with a party: receiving a response communication from the party's personal commlmications device; refraining from sending notification communications to the party's personal communications device after receiving the response communication; initiating a second notification communication to the party's personal communications device, one or more other personal conununications devices, or both, after detection of a receipt of a second communication from the party's personal communications device.
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
Exhibit A
Page 114
US 7,119,716 B2 97
42. The method of claim 41, further comprising the step of refraining from sending notification communications to one or more additional personal communications devices. 43. The method of claim 41, wherein the step of initiating the first notification conununication is perfom1ed when a mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to the location.
98
means for initiating a second notification communication to the party's personal communications device, one or more other personal communications devices, or both, after detection of occurrence of one or more events. 55. The system of claim 54, wherein the one or more events comprises at least receipt of a second communication from the party's personal communications device. 56. The system of claim 54, wherein the one or more 44. The method of claim 41, wherein the stc'Ps are events comprises at least expiration of a predefined time performed with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that are communicatively coupled, or a computer 10 period. 57. The system of claim 54, wherein the one or more system having a distributed architecture. events comprises arrival, presence, or departure of a mobile 45. The method of claim 41, wherein the response com~ thing with respect to a location. munication is generated by a physical action taken by the 58. The system of claim 54, wherein the one or more party associated with the personal communications device. 46. The method of claim 41, wherein the response com- 15 events comprises scanning a machine readable code on an o~jcct. munication is generated by physically detecting the presence 59. The system of claim 54, wherein the one or more of the party associated with the personal communications events comprises actuation of a manually or automatically device. actuated switch that is associated with a mobile thing. 47. A computer-based notification system, comprising: 60. The system of claim 54, further comprising a means means for irritiating a notification communication to a 20 fOr refrairring from sending notification communications to personal communications device associated with a one or more additional personal communications devices. party; 61. The system of claim 54, wherein the initiating means means for receiving a response communication from the initiates the first notification communication when a mobile party's personal communications device, indicating that the party has received the notification communi- 25 thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a location. 62. The system of claim 54, wherein the storing m~ans, cation and is now occupied with a task associated with the first initiating means, the receiving means, the refraining the notification commrn1ication; and means and the second initiating means are implemented with means fOr refraining from sending any further notification a single computer system, a plurality of computers that are communications to the party's personal communicacommunicatively coupled, or a computer system having a tions device, until detection of one or more events that 30 distributed architecture. indicate that the party is no longer occupied with the 63. The system of claim 54, further comprising: task and can perform another task associated with means for monitoring travel data associated with a mobile another notification communication. thing; 48. The system of claim 47, wherein the one or more wherein the first initiating means initiates the first notifi35 events comprises at least receipt of second communication cation comnumication based upon the relationship of a from the party's personal communications device. moblle thing to a location; and 49. The system of claim 47, wherein the one or more wherein the second initiating means initiates the second events comprises at least expiration of a predefined time notification communication based upon the relationship period. 40 of the mobile thing or another mobile thing to the 50. The system of claim 47, wherein the one or more location or another location. events comprises at least arrival or departure of a mobile 64. A computer-based notification system, comprising; thing at or from a location, respectively. means for receiving a notification communication with 51. The system of claim 47, further comprising means for the personal communications device associated with refraining from sending notification communications to one the party finm the notification system; 45 or more additional personal conuuunications devices. means for communicating a response communication 52. The system of claim 47, wherein the initiating means from the party's personal communications device, incliinitiates the notification communication when a mobile cating that the party has received the notification com~ thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a location. munication and is now occupied with a task associated 53. 'l11e system of claim 47, wherein the initiating means, 50 with the notification communication; and the receiving means, the refraining means are implemented means for causing the notification system to refrain from with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that sencling any further notification communications to the are communicatively coupled, or a computer system having party's personal communications device, until deteca distributed architecture. tion of one or more events, indicating that the party is 54. A computer-based notification system, comprising: 55 no longer occupied with the task and can perform means for storing contact data in memory pertaining to another task associated with another notification comone or more party personal communications devices; munication. means for initiating a first notification communication to 65. The system of claim 64, wherein the response com~ a personal communications device associated with a munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party based upon the contact data; 60 party associated with the personal communications device. means for receiving a response communication from the 66. The system of claim 64, wherein the response comparty's personal communications device; munication is generated by physically detecting the presence means for changing the contact data based upon the of the party associated with the personal communications response communication; device. means for refraining from sencling notification commu~ 65 67. A computer-based notification system, comprising: nications to the party's personal communications means for storing contact data in memory pertaining to device based upon the change in contact data; and one or more party personal communications devices;
Exhibit A
Page 115
us 7,119,716 82
99
100
mean for initiating a notification commtmication to a 79. The system of claim 75, wherein the response compersonal communications device associated with a munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. party based upon the contact data; means for receiving a response communication from the 80. The system of claim 75, wherein the response comparty's personal communications device; 5 munication is generated by physically detecting the presence means fOr changing the contact data based upon the of the party associated with the personal commtmications response; and device. means for modifying a manner in which future notifica81. A computer-based notification system, comprising: tion communlcations are implemented, based upon the means for initiating a first notification communication to 10 change in the contact data. a personal communications device associated with a 68. The system of claim 67, wherein the modifying means party; comprises a means for refraining from sending notification means for receiving a response communication from the communications to the party's personal communications party's personal communications device; device after receiving the response commlUlication, lUltil means for refraining from sending notification conunu15 detection of one or more events. nications to the party's personal communications 69. 'lbe system of claim 68, wherein the one or more device after receiving the response communication; events comprises at least one or more of the following: and receipt of a second comnnmication from the party's personnl means for initiating a second notification communication commlmications device; expiration of a predefined time to the party's personal communications device, one or period; or arrival or departure of a mobile thing at or from 20 more other personal communications devices, or both, a location, respectively. after detection of the scanning of a machine readable 70. The system of claim 68, further comprising a means code on an object. for refraining from sending notification commru1ications to 82. The system of claim 81, further comprising a means one or more additional personal communications devices. 71. The system of claim 67, wherein the initiating means 25 for refraining from sending notification communications to one or more additional personal communications devices. initiates the notification communication when a mobile 83. The system of claim 81, wherein the first initiating thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a location. means initiates the first notification communication when a 72. The system of claim 67, wherein the storing means, mobile thing is a predetermined proximity \Vith respect to a the initiating means, the receiving means, and the modifying means arc implemented with a single computer system, a 30 location. 84. The system of claim 81, wherein the first initiating plurality of computers that are communicatively coupled, or means, the receiving means, the refraining means, and the a computer system having a distributed architecture. second initiating means are implemented with a single 73. TI1e system of claim 67, wherein the response com computer system, a plurality of computers that are communumication is generated by a physical action taken by the 35 nicatively coupled, or a computer system having a distribparty associated with the personal communications device. uted architecture. 74. 'The system of claim 67, wherein the response com85. The system of claim 81, wherein the response communication is generated by physically detecting the presence munication is generated by a physical action taken by the of the party associated with the personal communications device. party associated with the personal communications device. 40 75. A computer-based notification system, comprising: 86. The system of claim 82, wherein the response commeans for initiating a first notification conununication to munication is generated by physically detecting the presence a personal communic;;ltions device associated with a of the party associated with the personal communications party; device. means for receiving a response communication from the 45 87. A computer-based notification system, comprising: party's personal conununications device; means for monitoring travel data associated with a mobile means for refraining from sending notification commuthing; nications to the patty's personal communications means for initiating a first notifJcation communication to dt!vice aflcr receiving the response communication; a personal communications device associated with a means for initiating a second notification communication 50 party based upon the relationship ofthe mobile thing to to the party's personal communications device, one or a location; more other personal commlU1ications devices, or both, means for receiving a response communication from the after detection of a receipt of a second communication party's personal communications device; from the party's personal corrununications device. means for refraining from sending notification commu76. The system of claim 75, further comprising a means 55 nications to the party's personal communications for refraining from sending notification comnnmications to device after receiving the response communication; one or more additional personal communications devices. and 77. The system of claim 75, wherein the first initiating means for initiating a second notification communication means initiates the first notification communication when a to the party's personal communications device, one or mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a 60 more other personal communications devices, or both, location. based upon the upon the relationship of the mobile 78. The system of claim 75, wherein the first initiating thing or another mobile thing to the location or another means, the receiving means, the refraining means, and the location. second initiating means are implemented with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that are conunu- 65 88. The system of claim 87, further comprising means for nicatively coupled, or a computer system having a distribrefraining from sending notification communications to one uted architecture. or more additional personal communications devices.
Exhibit A Page 116
US 7,119,716 B2 101
89. The system of claim 87, wherein the first initiating means initiates the first notification communication when a mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to the location. 90. The system of claim 87, wherein the monitoring means, the first initiating means, the receiving means, the refraining means, and the second initiating means are imple~ mented with a single computer system, a plurality of com~ purers that are communicatively coupled or a computer system having a distributed architecture.
102
91. The system of claim 87, wherein the response com~ munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. 92. The system of claim 87, wherein the response communication is generated by physicaliy detecting the presence of the party associated with the personal communications device.
* * * * *
Exhibit A
Page 117
Exhibit B
11111111111111 11111111 llllllllllllllinnllllllllllllllllllllllllll 1111 1111

US007504966B2
(12)
United States Patent

Horstemeyer
RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR MODIFYING FUTURE NOTIFICATIONS Inventor; Scott A. Horstcmcycr, Atlanta, GA (US) (VG)
(10) (45)
Patent No.: US 7,504,966 B2 Date of Patent: Mar. 17, 2009

References Cited U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
(54)
(56)
(75)
3,568,161 A
3,644,81-lJ A
3/1971 Knickel ...................... 3401994 2/1972 Bonnan et al. ................ 340/23
(73)
( *)
Assignee: LegalView Assets, Limited, Tortola Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days.
(Continued) FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

.EP
0219859 A2
4/1987
(Continued) OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Moriok, et al., "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and communication Systems for Bus Transit-Benefits and Economic Feasibility", Final Report-U.S. Department of Transportation, Sep. 1991, Revised Mar. 1993, Dot-T-94-03.
(21) (22) (65)
Appl. No.: 11/924,853
Filed:
Oct. 26, 2007
Prior Publication Data

US 2008/0042883 AI
Feb. 21, 2008
Related U.S. Application Data (62) Division of application No. 11/520,263, filed on Sep.
(Continued)
13, 2006, which is a division of application No. 10/706,591, filed on Nov. 12, 2003, now Pat. No.
(60) 7,119,716. Provisional application No. 60/498,819, filed on Aug.
Primary Examiner- Tai T Nguyen (74) AttorneJ\ Agent, or .Firm-'Thomas, Horstemeyer & Risley LLP
(57) ABSTRACT
Kayden,
29, 2003, provisional application No. 60/486,768,
filed on Jul. 11, 2003, provisional application No. 60/473,949, filed on May 28, 2003, provisional application No. 60/473,742, filed on May 28, 2003, provisional application No. 60/473,738, filed on May 28, 2003.
(51) (52)
Int. Cl.
G08G 11123 (2006.01) U.S. C!........................ 340/994; 340/992; 340/928; 340/502; 340/504; 340/506; 340/539.11; 701/201; 7011204; 705/8; 705/9; 705110 Field of Classification Search ................. 340/994, 340/992, 928, 502,504,506, 539.11; 701/201, 7011204; 705/8,9, 10 See application file for complete search history.
(58)
Response systems and method<; are disclosed for communications in connection with a computer-based notification system and a personal communications device (e.g., telephone, pager, computer, PDA, etc.) associated with a party. One such representative response method, among others, can be summarized by the following steps: initiating a notification com~ munication to a personal communications device associated with a party; receiving a response communication from the party's personal communications device; and modifying a manner in which future notification communications are implemented, based upon the response. A representative response system, among others, has mechanisms for implementing tbe foregoing steps.
5 Claims, 50 Drawing Sheets
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Exhibit B Page 118
US 7,504,966 B2
Page 2
911996 Tayloe eta!. ............... 3421357
9/1996 Smith ......................... 379/115 I0/1996 Grube et al ................. 364!446 1111996 Bohm ......................... 379/58 1111996 Kennedy, III et al .......... 379/60 12/1996 Lewis ......................... 342/357 !11997 Shah etal ................ 364/449.1 1/1997 Ohshima eta! ............. 379/114 2/1997 Haagenstad eta! .......... 364/436 4/1997 Jones ......................... 340!994 7/1997 Ross .......................... 340/994 7/1997 Wortham .................... 364/460 8/1997 Jones ......................... 340/994 9/1997 Jones ......................... 340/994 9/1997 Ross ........................... 379/58 10/1997 Magliari et a!. ............. 340/904 12/1997 Westerlage et al .......... 364/464 12/1997 Backaus eta!. ............. 379/427 12/1997 Beasley et al. 364/514 R 1/1998 Brinkman et al. ........... 379/119 2/1998 Zazzera ...................... 379/265 2/1998 Bucket al ................... 364/443 3/1998 Wester!ageetal .......... 364/446 3/1998 Peters eta!. ................ 395/671 3/1998 Bhusri ........................ 379/115 3/1998 Spaur eta! .................. 370/313 3/1998 Kennedy, III et al ........ 455/445 4/1998 Burgener .................... 340/994 4/1998 Olandesi ..................... 340/994 4/1998 Burk .......................... 379/198 5/1998 Janky eta! .................. 342/357 6/!998 Branch et al . ............... 342/457 6/1998 Friedes ....................... 379/121 6/1998 Kennedy, III eta! ........ 455/456 6/1998 Reynolds ................. 364/449.7 7/1998 Krasner ...................... 342/357 7/1998 Chapman eta!. ............ 379/!19 8/1998 Sbisa ......................... 379/120 S/1998 Lewis ......................... 342/357 8/1998 Fleischer, III et al ........ 379/113 8/1998 Culbertson .................. 701/117 9/1998 Penzias ...................... 379/118 9/1998 Matta eta!. ................. 340/994 J0/1998 Sorden et al ................ 342/457 1111998 Frazer ........................ 379/115 1111998 Graham et al ............... 379/114 12/1.998 Welter, Jr.................... 379/116 1/1999 Ronen ........................ 379/127 211999 Glitbo eta! ................. 379/116 3/1999 Keams eta!. ............... 379/114 611999 Gael eta! ................... 379/120 6/1999 Whited et al ................ 379/il5 6/1999 Jagadlsh eta!. ............. 379/127 7/1999 Alcott eta!. ................ 379/114 7/1999 Prabhaka.ran ............... 701/117 811999 Kim ........................... 379/121 8/1999 Weik et al ................... 3701259 811999 Leta eta! .................... 379/120 8/1999 Freestone et al ............ 705/400 8/1999 Trask .................. 340/825.491 8/1999 Bbusri ........................ 379/ll5 9/1999 Brendzel ..................... 705/34 911999 Togawa ...................... 340/994 9/1999 Melen et al ................. 379/114 il/1999 Jagadish eta!. ............. 379/115 1111999 Jagadish et al .............. 379/114 11/1999 Westerlageetal .......... 701/204 11/1999 Malik ......................... 379/114 11/1999 Bnmo et al. ................ 379/115 1111999 Bouanaka et al ............ 3791115 11/1999 Johnson et al .............. 379/116 12/1999 Schmieret al .............. 701/200 7/2000 Wilson ....................... 340/904
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

3,845,289 3,886,515 3,934,125 4,220,946 4,297,672 4,325,057 4,350,969 4,525,601 4,585,904 4,713,661 4,791,571 4,799,162 4,804,837 4,804,937 4,812,843 4,813,065 4,857,925 4,894,649 4,956,777 5,003,584 5,006,847 5,014,206 5,021,780 5,021,789 5,048,079 5,068,656 5,097,429 5,103,475 5,113,185 5,121,326 5,122,959 5,144,301 5,146,491 5,155,689 5,168,451 5,179,584 5,218,629 5,218,632 5,223,844 5,243,529 5,271,484 5,299,132 5,323,456 5,351,194 5,361,296 5,381,338 5,381,467
5,394~32
A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A
10/1974 511975 111976 911980 10119RI 4/1982 9/1982 6/1985 411986 12/1987 12/1988 l/1989
2/1989
2/1989 3/1989 311989 8/1989
111990 911990 3/1991 4/1991 5/1991
611991
6/1991 9/1991 1111991 3/1992 4/1992 5/1992 6/1992
611992
711992 9/1992 9/1992 10/1992 12/1992 l/1993 6/1993 6/1993 6/1993 911993
5,l31,020 A
1211993
3/1994
611994
9/ J994
1!/1994 l/1995 l/1995 2/1995 3/1995
5,398,190 5,400,020 5,420,794 5,428,546 5,432,841 5,440,489 5,444,444 5,446,678 5,448,479 5,461,374 5,483,234 5,483,454 5,493,295 5,493,694 5,506,893 5,513,1 II 5,515,421 5,519,621 5,526,401 5,539,8l0 5,544,225 5,546,444
311995 511995
6/1995 7/1995 8/1995
811995
8/1995
911995
J0/1995 1/1996 l/1996 2/1996 2/1996 4/1996 4/1996 5/1996 5/1996
A
A
A
A A
A
A
A A A
611996
7/1996
811996
8/1996
French ........ ... 235/151.2 Cottin et al ................. 340/994 Macano ................... 235/150.2 Henriot ....................... 340/23 forucheyetal. ................ 340/23 Bishop ....................... 340/539 Greer .......................... 340/23 Bamich et al ........... 37917 MM Mincone et al .......... 17917.1 TP Boone et al ................. 340/994 Takahashi eta!. ........... 364/436 Shinkawa et a!. .. 364/436 Farley ........................ 250/251 Barbiaux et a.L ........... 340152 F Champion, III et al ...... 340/905 Scgala ........................ 3791112 Brubaker .................... 340/994 Davis .................... 340/825.44 Cearley eta! .......... 364/424.02 Benyacar eta! ............. 379/119 Rushetal ................... 340/994 Scribner et al .............. 364/449 Fabiano eta!. .............. 340/994 Shaw ......................... 264/436 Harrington et al ........... 379/112 Sutherland .................. 340/989 Wood eta!. ................. 364/569 Shuen ........................ 379/115 Ichikawa .................... 340/995 Moroto et al ............... 364/449 Nathanson et al ........... 364/436 Liebesney et at. ............. 379/59 Jackson et al ............... 340/994 Si!veretal .................. 379/Jl4 Wortham .................... 364/460 Bolger ....................... 364/436 Tsumura ..................... 379/114 Dumond, Jr. eta!. .......... 379/59 Cool .......................... 379/126 Mansel! et al ............... 342/357 Kashiwazaki ............... 364/449 Bahjatet al ................ 187/29.1 Wortham .................... 364/460 Oprea ........................ 379/375 Ross et al. .................. 364/449 Reyes et al .................... 379/96 Wysocki et al .............. 364/449 Rosinski et al .............. 3791121 Kuwahara et al ............ 364/449 Wortham .................... 364/460 Jones ......................... 340/994 James ........................ 364/436 Shah eta!. .................. 364/449 Rimer ......................... 379/59 Newman ............... 364/426.05 Ross .......................... 340/994 Saltzstein et al ............ 364/514 Kemner et al .......... 365/424.02 Lewineretal .............. 340/994 Correel et al ............... 340/994 Lewineretal. .. 364/443 Lewiner et al. . ............ 340/994 Vlcek et al. ................ 455/53.1 Buscheret a!. ............. 379/114 Wortham .................... 364/460 Si.kand et al. ................. 379/67 Wortham .................... 364/460 Roach, Jr. eta!. ............. 379/59 Kennedy, III et al .......... 379/59 Kennedy, III et al .......... 379/59 Roach, Jr. et al. ............. 379/59
5,552,795 5,559,871 5,570,100 5,577,101 5,579,376 5,587,715 5,594,650 5,594,787 5,602,739 5,623,260 5,648,770 5,652,707 5,657,0l0 5,668,543 5,673,305 5,680,119 5,694,322 5,694.459 5,699,275 5,712,908 5,715,307 5,719,771 5,724,243 5,724,584 5,729.597 5,732,074 5,734,981 5,736,940 5,739,774 5,742,672 5,751,245 5,760,742 5,771,282 5,771,455 5,774,825 5,781,156 5,784,443 5,793,853 5,7.96,365 5,799,073 5,79.9,263 5,805,680 5,808,565 RE35,920 5,835,580 5,841,847 5,852,659 5,864,610 5,875,238 5,881,138 5,910,979 5,912,954 5,915,006 5,920,613 5,922,040 5,937,044 5,943,320 5,943,406 5,943,657 5,945,919 5,946,379 5,950,174 5,955,974 5,956.,391 5,982,864 5,987,108 5,987,377 5,991,377 5,991,380 5,991,381 5,995,602 6,006,159 6,094,149
A A A A
A A
A A
A
A A A
A
A
A
A
A
A A
A
A
A
A A A A A A A A A
A
A A
A
A
A
A
A
A A A
E A
A A A
A
A
A A A A A A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A A A A A A A A A A
Exhibit B
Page 119
US 7,504,966 B2
Page 3
A A A A A A B1 6,184,802 B1 6,191,708 B1 6,212,393 Bl 6,222,462 B1 6,240,362 D1 6,253,146 B1 6,253,148 B1 6,278,936 B1 6,313,760 B1 6.317.060 BI 6,360,101 B1 6,363,254 BI 6,363,323 B1 6,374,I76 B1 6,400,956 Bl 6,411,891 B1 6,415,207 B1 6,486,80I B1 6,492,912 B1 6,510,383 B1 6,618,668 Bl 6,683,542 B1 6,700,507 B2 2002/0016171 A1 2002/00690!7 A1 2002/0082770 AI 2002/0099500 Al 2003/0093218 A1 2003/0098802 AI 2003/0146854 A1 2003/0193412 A1 2003/0193413 AI 2003/0193414 A1 2003/0I95696 AI 2003/0195697 AI 2003/0195698 AI 2003/0195699 AI 2003/0233188 A1 2003/0233I90 AI 2004/0044467 A1' 2006/0206257 Al *
6,097,317 6,111,538 6,124,810 6,134,501 6,137,425 6,144,301 6,178,378
8/2000 Lewiner et al. ............. 340/994 8/2000 Schuchman eta!. ........ , 342/357 9/2000 Segal et al. ................. 340/994 10/2000 Oumi ......................... 701/209 10/2000 Oster et al. ................ 340/994 1112000 Frieden ................... 340/572.8 112001 Leibold ...................... 701/202 212001 Lamb 3401994 2/2001 Davidson .................... 340/994 4/2001 Suarez eta!. .. 4551456 4/2001 Hahn ........... , .. , ........ 340/904 5/2001 Gaspard, II ................. 701/209 6/2001 Hanson et al . .............. 701/202 6/2001 Decaux et al. .............. 701/204 8/2001 Jones ......................... 701/201 1112001 Jones ..................... .. 340/994 1l/2001 Jones ......................... 340/994
WO
WO 02/093886 A2
Il/2002
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
BI)'llielsson, Thore, Step by Step Development Towards Attractive Public Transport, Chalmers University of Technology, Gotebord, Sweden, Department of Transportation, 1976. "Public Transporation Infonnation and Management Ssytems", lEE Colloquium, Computing and Control Division, May 25, 1993, pp. 9/1-9/4, 12/1-12/2,7/1-7/3. "Vehicle Location and Fleet Management Systems", lEE Colloquium, Computing and Control Division, Jun. 8, I993. The 3rd International Conference on Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems (VNIS) Norway, Sep. 2-4, 1992, pp. 312-315. Preiss, George; Jenson, Lillian; ''The Satref and GPS Information Projects", 1992 IEEE-3rd International Conference on Vehcile Navigation Infonnation Systems, pp. 648-655. "Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings" (P-253), Society Automotive Engineers, Inc., Oct. 1991, pp. 789-796. "1992 Compendiwn ofTechnical Papers", InstituteofTransportation Engineers-INRAD: A Deminostration of Two-Way Roadway to Vehicle Comnmnication for use in Traffic Operations, Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C. pp. 214-218. "Paving the Way for GPS in Vehicle Tracking", Showcase World, Dec. 1992. "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Communication Systems for Bus Transit", Federal Transit Administration, Sep. 199I, Revised Mar. 1993. Koncz, et al., "GIS-Based Transit Information Bolsters Travel Options", GIS World, Jul. 1995, pp. 62-64. Helleker, Jan, Real-Time Traveller Information-in evetyone's pocket?!-a pilot test using hand~portable GSM terminals, IEEE-IEEVehlcle Navigation & Information systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS I993, pp. 49-52 . Burgener, E.C., eta!., ''A Personal Transit Arrival Time Receiver'', IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 54-55. Peng, Zhong-Ren, "A Methodology tOr Design for a GIS-Based Automatic Transit Traveler Information System", Computer, Envi~ ronmentand Urban Systems, vol. 21, No.5, pp. 359-372, I997. Lessard, Robert, "The Use of Computer for Urban Transit Operations", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information systems Con ference, Ottawa, ThTJS 1993, pp. 586-590. Sonunerville, Fraser, et al., "Reliable Infonnation in Everyone's Pocket-a Pilot Test", IEEE, vol. 1927, Mar. 1994, pp. 425-428. "PROMISE-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service-Specification of Promise Services, Ver. 7'', Telematics Application Programme.A.2, Transport, Jul. I, 1996. "PROMISE-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service-Generic Promise System Architecture, Ver. 2", Telematics Application ProgrammeA2, Transport, Sep. 10, 1996. PROMISE-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Infonnation Service-Sununruy of Promise Public Relation Activities, Ver. 1, Telematics Application ProgrammeA2, Transport, Feb. 12, 1999. "PROMISE-A Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service-Abstract", The Institution of Electrical Engineers, 1997. Sonunerville, Fraser, eta!., "The Promise of Increased Patronage", The Institution of Electrical Engineers, 1993, pp. 3/l-3/4. "Automatic Transif Location System", Washington Slate Department ofTransportation, Final Report, Feb. 1996. "Advanced Traveler Aid Systems for Public Transportation", Federal Transit Administration, Sep. 1994. "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Communication Systems for Bus Transit: Benifits and Economic Feasibility", U.S. Department of Transportation, Urban Mass Transportation Administration, Sep. 1991. Leong, Robert, eta!., "An Unconventional Approach to Automatic Vehicle Location and Control for Urban Transit", IEEE 1989, pp. 219-223. "1994 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings", Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 807-810.
312002 min .......................... 4451456

3/2002 Jones et al. .. 455!456 3/2002 Jones ......................... 701/213 412002 Schmier et a!. ............. 70l/200 6/2002 Richton ...................... 455/456 6/2002 Jones ......................... 7011201 7/2002 Jones .......................... 701/1 1[/2002 Jones ......................... 340/994 12/2002 Jones 112003 Jones 9/2003 Laird 70l/204 112004 Jones ,., .. ,................... 3401994 3/2004 Jones ......................... 340/994 2/2002 Doganata eta! ............. 455/456 612002 Schmier eta!. ............. 701/213 6/2002 Jones 7/2002 Schmier eta!. ............. 70ll200 512003 Jom:s ......................... 70l/20! 5/2003 Jones ......................... 340/994 812003 Jones ......................... 340/988 10/2003 Jones ... 340/994 l 0/2003 Jones ......................... 340/994 I0/2003 Jones ................ 340/994 10/2003 Jones ..................... "' 70I/20I 10/2003 Jones ......................... 70l/201 10/2003 Jones ......................... 701/201 10/2003 Jones ......................... 701/201 12/2003 Jones 70l/200 12/2003 Jones ...................... " 701/207 3/2004 Laird ......................... 701/207 912006 Jones .. 701/201
......................
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

EP
EP
FR FR
JP JP OR05427 0889455 2 559 930 2674355 52066175 63288400 11034872 wo 90/0I236 wo 93113503 WO 93/13510 WO 9313510 wo 94/02922 wo 94/27264 wo 96/04634 wo 96116386 wo 98/07128 wo 98/08206 wo 98/14926 wo 98/40837 AI Al 11/1997 l/1999 8/I985 9/1992 6/I977 11/1988 2/1999 2/I990 7/1993 7/I993 7/1993
wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo wo
JP
AI AI
211994
1111994 2/l996 5/I996
211998
2/I998 4/1998 9/I998
Exhibit B Page 120
US 7,504,966 B2
Page 4
"Vehicle Navigation
& Information Systems Conference Part 2", Society ofAutomotive Engineers, Inc.,
Hubner, Paul, "Advance Public Transportation Infonnation in Munich", International Conference on Public Transport Electronic Systems, Conference Publication No. 42, Jun. 1996. Thompson, S.M., eta!., "Exploiting Telecommunications to Delivezy Real Time Transport Information", Road Transport Information and Control, Apr. 21-23, \998, pp. 59-63. Conference Publication No. 454 IEE 1998. Kami.n.it:zer, David, eta!., Driver Information Systems: Influencing your Route, lEE Seminar, Mar. 3, 1999, pp. 5/1-5/5. "Board Cites ATC in Spokane Near Miss", Article in Aviation Week & Space Technology, Mar. 28, 1977, URL: http:i/www.aviationnow. com. Shifrin, Carole A., "Gate Assignment Expert System Reduces Delays at United's Hubs", Article in Aviation Week & Space Technology, Jan. 25, 1988. "United Airlines applies TI's advance technologies to improve gate management at major airports", Article in Business Wire, Inc., Nov. 19, 1987. Musich. Paula, "Airline Designs Software to move planes, people; Unite Airline's use ofCovia Corp.'s Open Systems Manager, Connectivity Section", Article in PC Week, Jun. 7, 19R8, vol. 5, No. 23,p.
Proceedings~P-253,
Oct. 1991. Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems--Conference Record of Papers presented at the 3rd Vehicle Navigation & Information Sys lems Conference 1992., Reso Hold, Osio Plaza., PP 49-52. Nelson, J. Richard, "Experiences Gained in Implementing an Economical Universal Motorist System", , IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 67-71. "The Cassiope/Eurobus Approach", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 79-81. Kilil, Mary, "Advanced Vehicle Location System for Paratransit in Iowa", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 381-384. Gault, Helen, eta!., "Automatic Vehicle Location and Control at OC Transpo",, IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference. Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 596-600. Vehicle navigation & Information System-Conference Record of Papers presented at the First Vehicle Navigation and Information Sy..tems Conference (VNJS '89), Sep. 1113, 1999, pp. 602-605. Heti, Gabriel, "Travelguide: Ontario's Route Guidance System Dem onstration", , IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. A13-Al8. Jeffery, D.J., et aL, "Advanced Traveller Infonnation Systems in the UK: Experience from the Pleiades and Roma.nse Projects", , IEEE-IEE Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS !993,pp.309313. Sweeney, Lamence, E., eta!., ''Travinfo: A Progress Report", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 315-320. Shimarnura, Yta., et al., "Combined Position Detection System for Pedestrianffrain Mode", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 603-606. Zavoli, Walt, '"Customer Location Services", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 613-617. Tanaka, Yoshimi, et a\., "Automatic Traffic Tnfonnation Provision System Utilizing Facsimile and Telephone (Now Operating in Osaka), 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation Systems Conference Proceedings", Yoka.hama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 627-632. McDonald, Mike, et al., "Romanse (Road Management System for Europe) Project", 1994 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings, Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. A-11-A-14. Scott III, Robert H., "Computer-Aided Dispatch,", 1998, pp. 46-50. Moore, Rodney J., "Hold the Phone!", American Demographics, Ithaca, Jan./Feb. 1996, p. 68. Delong, Jr., Edgar S., "Making 9!1 even better", Telephony, Dec. 14, 1987, pp. 60-63. Bruzck, FrankJ., "Class Calling Service-A Consumer Service Perspective", Globecom '85 IEEE Global Telecommunications Conference, Dec. 2-5, 1985, vol.l of3, pp. 11.4.1-11.4.4. Powell, R., et al., "Real Time Passenger Information System for the Romanse Project", Colloouin Digest -lEE, Boston, Sep. 1993, pp. 9/l-9-3. Huber, Paul, "Public Transport Information Systems in Munich", Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress '95-Second Wold Congress on Intelligent Transport Systems, Yokohama, Japan., Nov. 9-11, 1995, pp. 2362-2366. Ronez, Nicholas, et al, "GIS-Based Transit Information Bolsters Travel Options", GIS World, vol. 6, part?, Jun. 1995, pp. 62-64. Catling, Jan, eta!., "TABASCO-Improving Transport Systems in Europe", Pacific Rim TransTech Conference, Jul. 30-Aug. 2, 1995, 995 Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceedings, V,lashington State Convention and Trade Center, Seattle, Washington, USA, pp. 503-507. Dailey, D.J., "Demonstration of an Advance Public Transportation System in the Con ted of an lVI-IS Regional Architecture", Proceedings of the First World Congress on Applications of Transport Telematics and Intelligent Vehicle-Highway Systems. Nov. 30-Dec. 3, 1994, Paris, France, pp. 3024-3031.
Cll.
Stoll, Marilyn, "Systems help Airlines Manage Gate Schedules; Con nectivity Supplement", PC Week, Jul. 25, 1988, vol. 5, No. 30, p. C4. Reddy, Shyamala, ''Traveling LAN: United Airlines Networks Its Terminals", Article in The Local Area Network Magazine, Jan. 1990, vol. 5, No. 1, p. 108. Fisher, Sharon, "NetworkedAirport Systems help Travelers find their way; United Airlines subsidiazy Cavia Corp. devices integrated net work.", Article in Software Magazine, Mar. 15, 1990, vol. 10, No.4, p. 31. Henderson, Danna K., "Automation Takes aim at airports: the power of the networked PC is being unleashed on passenger handling and ramp activities worldwide.", Article in Air Transport Wold, Aug. 1990., vol. 27, No.8, p. 52. "United Airline introduces United Cargo Plug I, a new cargo computer system to serve freight forwarders", Business Wire, Oct. 22,
1990.
Miller, Barry, "Special Report: Airline Equipment. Service Center", Aviation Week & Space Technology, Aug. 25, 1975, pp. 51. Lyon, Mark W., "Cargo Net Debate Splits Industry", Journal of Commerce, SpeciaJs, p. 4, Jul. 27, 1992. Davies, I.L., et al., ''Electronics and the Aeroplane", Proceedings of the Institution of Electrical Engineers, Paper No. 7604, delivered before the lEE Electronics Division, Oct. 29, 1975. "Global Niche", Flight International, Sep. 26, 1990. "Real-Time Briefings", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Oct. 13, 1986. Flanagan, Mike, eta!., ''Amelia Earhart-Mystery Still Clouds Soaring Achievements", Chicago Tribune, Jul. 5, 1987 Final Edition, p. 5, Tempo Woman. ''Official Airline Guides", Airports, Nov. 20, 1990, Around Airports, vol. 7, No. 47, p. 485. "Automation System Gains Acceptance", Aviation Week & Space Technology, Nov. 23, 1992, vol. 137, No. 21, p. 97. Klass, Philip, "French Testing "Ground-Derived' MLS, Aviation & Space Technology, Avionics, p. 56, Dec. 15, 1975. "Forecast Realized for ATC System", Aviation & Space Technology, Mar. 17, 1975, Avionics, p. 168, Henderson, Danna, el al., "Ionworks: America West Automates New Phoenix Terminal Fu!iy Integrated System to Handle Customer-Service Demands (America West Airlines Inc) (Includes Related Article Automation of passenger Service at Airports)", Airport Transport World, May 1, 1991. vol. 62. 3 Pages from a web site search under http://mit.edu/afs/net.mit!edu/ project!attic/usa-today/tech/37, Jun. 12, 2003. "What's New in passenger Handling Equipment", Air Transport World, vol. 24,p. 62, Sep. 1987. ''Senator Urges Acceleration ofNavstar" .Aviation & Space Technology, Avionics, p. 153, Oct. 3, 1983. "AFSC Broadens Joint Program Efforts",Aviation &Space Technology, System Acquisition, p. 83, Jul. 19, 1976.
Exhibit B Page 121
US 7,504,966 B2
Page 5
"Herskovitz, Don, "GPS Insurance Antijamming the System; Brief Klass, Philip J., "Two Carriers Plan Automatic Data Link", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Air Transport Section, May 23, 2977, p. 36. "Data Link Evolved Over Three Decades", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Air Transport Section, May 23, 1977, p. 36. Kla~s, Philip J., "American to Install Printers in Cockpits", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Avionics, Jul. 21, 1980, p. 56. Lefer, Henry, "Computers on a boon to E&M, but at a price", Air Transport World, vol. 23, p. 53, Feb. 1986. Donaghue, J.A., "Choice of Data Link Systems Expands as New Generation Hits the Market", Air Transport World, vol. 20, p. 58, Apr.
Article, Journal of Electronic Defense, Dec. 1, 2000, No. 12, vol. 23, p. 41.
Hambly, Richard M., et al., "Aircraft Traffic Management on the
Airport Surface Using VHF Data Link for CNS", IEEE AES Systems
Magazine, Mar. 1995, pp. 9-13. Berzins, G., et al., "IN:MARSAT: Worldwide Mobile Satellite Services on Seas, in Air and on Land", Space Technology, vol. 10, No.4, pp. 231-237, 1990. Jenney, LL., el al., "Man as Manager of Automated Resources in an Advanced Air Traffic Systems", J. Aircraft, vol. 12, No. 12, Dec. 1975. "Routing & Scheduling System improvements from IUSI; Routing
1983.
Klass, Philip J., "Digital Network Could Improve Aircraft Links to Operations, ATC", Aviation Week and Space Technology, InternaLional Air Transport Section, vol. 131, No. 21, p. 121, Nov. 20, 1989. Board Cites ATC in Spokane Near Miss, Article in Aviation Week & Space Technology, Safety Section, Mar. 28, 1977, p. 59.
Technology Software, Inc.; Product Announcement", Modern Brewery Age, vol. 43, No.3, p. llS, Jan. 20, 1992. Yanacek, Frank, "Hitching to the stars; satellites for shipment track ing", Research Information Transportation Journals, Combined. No. 6, vol. 29, p. 16.
* cited by examiner
Exhibit 8 Page 122
L:
41""" Base Station (BS) Manager 4l_ Positioning System (e.g., GPS Satellites, radar, etc.) Response System Feedback Analyzer 100a Secure Notification Messaging System 21Q Base Station Control Unit (BSCU) Stop Location Determination System 190 Mobile Thing Determination System 250 6 52 148 Combined MITL And DTL Notification System 290
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communications device after
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a
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communications device
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the personal communications
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the personal communications
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with one or more corresponding stop locations, based upon the device location data and the travel data associated with the mobile thing
04
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+ Causing communication of
an identification of the stop location(s) to the personal communications device so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished at one of the stop locations.
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u. <::>
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FIG. 148
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211
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--
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'
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13
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""
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24
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FROM
XYZ-Ch~ritY@secur
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SUBJECT
Arriving in 2 Minutes (1:49PM)- Security By Secure Arrival
!RECEIVED
1:47:58 PM ES
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Subj: YXZ CHARITY ARRIVING IN 2 MINUTES

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VERIFICATION WAS
~~
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Date: 1/28/1995 l :47:56 PM Eastern Standard Time From: PatSmith@SecureArrival.com To: NancyS@Domain.com
I The person to the right will be approaching your I home at l :49 pm.
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NOTIFICATION
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Please reply to this message for additional veri-ficati.on, to cancel the arrival, or to reschedule.
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BOB JONES IS ARRIVING IN 20 MINUTES
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RESPONSE MUST BE RECEIVED WITHIN 4 MINUTES & 57 SECONDS
AT THE XYZ Italian Restaurant ...

WILL YOU JOIN THEM? PLEASE.RESPOND
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PARTY OF 415 ARRIVING IN 20 MINUTES, PLEASE CONFIRM A RESERVATION IF AVAI\..ABL.E BETWEEN
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HAS RESPONSE OCCURRED?
NO YES
NOTIFICATION WAS RECEIVED AND YOU HAVE A CONFIRMED RESERVATION AT 6:40PM UNDER WHITE PLEASE CHECK~IN UPON
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ARRIVAL THANK YOU.
RESPONSE FAILURE STATE BEEN REACHED?
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XVZ Italian Restaun:~nt "Notlflc:aUon W~ Reeelved AM You Have A CONFIRMEO RESERVATION AT 6:40PM UnderWhltQ. PI~O Clloc:k-ln Upon Arrh1al. Th~nk You,
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Reclpi<ont af Notll1<:o!llon fl,eos..o.ges Must R~<p011d Within (5 Mlmd.S) Or Systllm Will Net &cepl?
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IN-VEHICLE NAIIIGATION SYSTEM UllUZit-IG LOCATION AfTER MESSAGE WAS SENT AS TilE DEFAULT FOR RECIPIENTS TO RESPOND ro NOTIFICATION MesSAGES
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VEHICLE STOPS TYPE OF STOP
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TYPE OF STOP IS
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\ NOTIFY PERSON AT ., DELIVERY ADDRESS #03 : OF 30 MINUTE ARRIVAL
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MESSAGE
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0:09:00 = . / - 00:10:50 00 :12 :00 ..... - . - - if[ DESTINATION 00.13.50 l ' 001500 OF V ' DELl ERY #02 ~ : 00.16.50 ~ - - ~ oo: 1s:1Jo .................................................. , : 00:19:50
RESPONSE FAILURE : .......................................... ........:
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DESTINATION OF DELIVERY # 03
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WHEN NO RESPONSE IS MADE FROM THE
INTENDED RECIPIENT WITHIN 20 MINUTES AFTER NOTIFICATION FAILURE STATE IS REACHED -''-=~:
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DELIVERY ADDRESSES WITH CONFIRMATIONS
DISTANCE FROM LOCATION
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DESTINATION OF DELIVERY r---J--'\t--1 #06 I
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NOTIFY NEXT DESTINATION
WHAT IS THE RESPONSE FAILURE STATE?
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DESTINATION ; . . . . OF DELIVERY ~ #16
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FAILURE STATE FOR THIS CUSTOMER.
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STOPNUMB6R
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RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR MODIFYING FUTURE NOTIFICATIONS
has landec;L A notification system can be employed to track the airplane travel status and to send notifications to these workers, when appropriate. To date, notification systems have been developed to address the foregoing needs and some are known in the art. CLAIM OF PRIORITY Mr. M. Kelly Jones, a prolific inventor in this field, obtained numerous patents that describe examples of such notification This application is a divisional application of application systems, some of which are as follows: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,400. Ser. No. 11/520,263, filed Sep. 13, 2006, which application is 020; 5,444,444; 5,623,260; 5,647)010; 5,648,770; 5,657,010; a divisional applic<Hion ofSer. No. 101706,591, filed Nov. 12, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,119,716 which claims the benefit 10 5,668,543; and 5,400,020; 6,278,936; 6,317,060; 6,363,323; 6,363,254; 6,411,891; 6,415,207; 6,492,912; 6,510,383; and ofand priority to the following provisional applications, all of 6,618,668. which are incorporated herein in their entirety: Ser. No. A nonexhaustive list of other examples of notification sys601473,738, filed May 28, 2003; Ser. No. 60/473,742, filed tems is as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,159 (for a public bus May 28, 2003; Ser. No. 601473,949, filed May 28, 2003; Ser. No. 60/486,768, filed Jul. 11, 2003; and Ser. No. 60/498,819, 15 transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,176 (for a public bus transit system); application Ser. No. 09/163,535, filed on Sep. filed Aug. 29, 2003. 30, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,739 (for a public transit sysc tern); U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,940 (tracking system for buses; BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION notice of impending arrival is described); U.S. Pat. No. 5,808, 20 565 (GPS triggered automatic enunciator for public transpor1. Field of the Invention tation vehicles that notifies of a stop based upon the location The present invention generally relates to data communi~ ofthevehicle); U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,974 (apparatus carried by cations, information, and messaging systems and, more parM a user to notify of arrival so user does not miss stop); U.S. Pat. ticularly, to systems and methods that notifY a party of travel No. 5,987,377 (dispatch system that determines expected status associated with one or more mobile things (MTs). 25 time of arrival and indicates to dispatcher when a vehicle will 2. Related Art be late); U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,810 (vehicle apparatus deterFor at least the purposes of allowing better preparation and mines when vehicle has arrived or departed from a planned or scheduling, for example, with respect to pickups or deliveries, unplanned stop and communicates such information to a cenit would be desirable to know, with substantial accuracy, the tral facility); U.S. Pat. No. 6,137,425 (waiting time prediction expected arrival or departure time of a mobile vehicle or thing 30 system for a public transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,378 (a (for example but not limited to, a bus, automobile, truck, train, vehicle navigation system where a start call, such as by teleship, plane, aircraft, etc.) with respect to a location. phone, is made); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,184,802 (system for For example, consider a commercial bus service. A person informing users when a next vehicle will arrive at their board~ intending to catch a bus or intending to pick up a friend or ing site). relative at the commercial bus station usually calls the bus 35 .Furthermore, a nonexhaustive list of examples of tracking station to find out the approximate arrival time (information systems is as foilows: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,014,206; 5,113,-185; which is oftentimes unavailable or unreliable) and/or arrives 5,155,689; 5,168,451 (transit system for dispatching at the bus station prior to the scheduled arrival or departure vehicles); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,223,844; 5,243,529 (in-vehicle time of the bus, hoping that the bus is not significantly navigation apparatus with map display); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,299, delayed. With knowledge of accurate arrival or departure 40 132; 5,394,332 (on-board navigation system); U.S. Pat. Nos. information, adjustments can be made to one's schedule to 5)98,190; 5,432,841 (system for locating and communicatavoid having to wait extended periods fOr a vehicle. ing with mobile vehicles); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,448,479; 5,483, Another example involves school children that ride school 454; 5,519,621; 5,587,715 (describes a satellite based trackbuses. The arrival times of school buses at scheduled stops ing system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,650 (describes a tracking can be significantly affected by many factors, such as main- 45 system with map display capabilities); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,652, tenance problems, rush hour traffic, congested urban/subur707; 5,724,243 (on board vehicle system tracks location and ban conditions, and adverse weather.As a result, school chilexpected time of arrival); U.S. Pat. No. 5,739,774 (mass dren typically wait at bus stops for long periods of time, transit monitoring system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,760,742 (inteoftentimes in adverse weather conditions, on unlit street corgratedmobile GIS/GPS/AVL with wireless messaging); U.S. ners, or in hazardous conditions near busy or secluded streets. so Pat. No. 5,796,365 (uses sateilites, vehicle tracking units, and An advance notification system that would inform the stua central computer); U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,040 (vehicle posidents of the school bus's proximity would be desirable so that tioning data is exchanged between vehicles and a central students can avoid having to wait for the school bus at the bus processor having a map display); U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,919 stop for extended time periods. (dispatch system tracks vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 6,191,708 Yet another example involves the commercial overnight 55 (vehicle location tracking without sateiiites); U.S. Pat. No. package industry, wherein packages are delivered or picked 6,253,148 (tracks buses and communicates waiting times to up many times on a tight schedule. Customers oftentimes wait radio receivers); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,101 (cellular phone on delivery or pickup of important time-critical packages, not that displays or sends messages upon its arrival at a predeter~ knowing precisely when the delivery or pickup will occur. A mined location). notification system that can inform a customer of the precise 60 Another tracking system that has been known in the art is arrival or departure time of a delivery vehicle with respect to the FlightView airline tracking system developed by RLM a location would be desirable in order to improve customer Software, Inc., which monitors the progress of an airplane service and to allow the customer to better schedule a delivery and displays its location on a map on a user's computer or pickup of an item. screen. RLM receives real-time flight data (for example, posiStill another example involves the airline industry. It is 65 tion and speed) for each flight over North America. This data desirable to notify airline workers, such as those Who unload comes from transponders located on aircraft. The FA. A ccilbaggage from airplanes, when an airplane is about to land or lects the transponder data, adds radar and other information, Exhibit B
Page 173
US 7,504,966 B2
Yet another such representative response system of the invenand supplies it to RLM. This data feed is known in the aviation tion, among others, would have a computer system pro. industry as "ASDI," which stands for Aircraft Situation Disgrammed to perform the foregoing steps. play for Industry and has been made available by the FAA. Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the since 1996. RLM processes this data and stores it in the FlighfView database.A user can then request the status of any 5 present invention will become apparent from the accompanying Drawings and following Detailed Description section. commercial flight from the FlightView system (by providing the airline and flight number), which sends to the user's BRIEF DESCRJPTION OF THE DRAWINGS computer screen a map showing the current position, route, and expected arrival time of the flight. The invention can be better understood with reference to Sabre, Inc., provides similar map functionality at its Virtu- 10 the following drawings. The elements of the drawings are not ally There web site using a system that is apparently based necessarily to scale relative to each other, emphasis instead upon the FlightVicw system. being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the As can be seen from the aforementioned prior art, the invention. Furthermore, like reference numerals designate systems that give notice concerning the status of moving things are still evolving and, in some sense, the art is still in a 15 corresponding parts throughout the several views. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary implestate of infancy. Accordingly, I write and submit this applicamentation of an automated notification system, which in this tion and invention for the public good to educate and further case, is a computer-based system. advance the technology associated with such systems. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary impleSUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 20 mentation of a computer system implementing the functionality of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1. Briefly described, the present invention provides response FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary implesystems and methods for communications in connection with mentation of a computer system implementing the fi.mction~ a computerbasednotification system and a personal commuM ality of the base station manager (BS manager) ofFIG. 1. FIG. 4A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impleM nications device (e.g., telephone, pager, PDA, etc.) associated 2s with a party. mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, One such representative response method of the invention, and operation of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1 that among others, can be summarized by the following steps: creates the mobile thing schedule. FIG. 4B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impleinitiating a notification co"mmunication to a personal communications device associated with a party; receiving a response 30 mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, communication from the party's personal communications and operation of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1 that tracks the mobile thing. device; and modifying a manner in which future notification communications are implemented, based upon the response. FIG. SA is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemA representative response system, among others, has mecha~ plary implementation of at least part of the architecture, funcnisms for implementing the foregoing steps. One suchrepre- 35 tionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIG. 1. sentative response system of the invention, among others, FIG. SB is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemwould comprise a computer system programmed to perform plary implementation of at least part of the architecture, functhe foregoing steps. tionality, and operation of the data manager associated with the BS manager of FIG. SA. A.nother such representative response method of the invention, among others, can be summarized by the following 40 FIG. SC is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implesteps: receiving a notification communication with a personal mentation of at least part Of the architecture, functionality, communications device associated with the party from the and operation of the monitoring mechanism associated with the BS manager of FIGS. SA and 5B. notification system; communicating a response communicaFIG. SD is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impletion from the party's personal communications device, ind.icating that the party has received the notification communi- 45 mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, cation and is now occupied with a task assodated with the and operation of the message manager associated with the BS notification communication; and causing the notification sysmanager of FIGS. SA and 58. tern to refrain from sending any fi.Jrther notification commuFIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary implementation of the response system of FIG. 1, which has the nications to the party's personal communications device, until detection ofone or more events, indicating that the party so response system feedback mechanism and the response sysis no longer occupied with the task and can perform another tern feedback analyzer. task associated with another notification communication. FIG. 7A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, which is A.uother such representative response system of the invention, among others, would have a computer system prooptionally implemented as at least part of the architecture, grammed to perform the foregoing steps. 55 functionality, andoperationoftheBSmanagerofFIGS.l and 3. Yet another such representative response method of the invention, among others, can be summarized by the following FIG. 7B is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, steps: scheduling an arrival or departure time for a mobile thing in relation to a stop location; scheduling a notification which is optionally implemented as at least part of the archicommunication to a personal communications device; moni- 60 tecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of taring travel data pertaining to the mobile thing; determining FIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified party causes a that the rna bile thing will be delayed in arriving or departing telecommunications connection to be made between the nolified party and a party associated with a tracked MT that will from the stop location; initiating a communication session with a communications device; and during the communicamake a pickup or delivery at a stop location. tion session, reporting a travel status of the mobile thing 65 FIG. 7C is a flow chart illustrating yet another exemplary indicating that the mobile thing will be delayed and enabling implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, which is optionally implemented as at least part of the archiM cancellation of the scheduled notification communication.
Exhibit 8 Page 174
US 7,504,966 B2
5
tecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified party is used to
notification system, for example, as at least part of the archi tecrnre, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of change one or more tasks associated with a pickup or delivery FIGS. 1 and 3. of an item or service associated with a stop location. FIG. 158 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple FIG. 7D is a flow chart illustrating still another exemplary s mentation of a fourth stop location determination system (and method; system and method are based upon timing criteria) implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, which is optionally implemented as at least part of the archithat can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the archi~ tecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified party is used to tecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of select one of a plurality oftimes for a pickup or delivery of an 10 FIGS. I and 3. item or service associated with a stop location. FIG .16 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implemenFIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary impletation ofa secure notification messaging system (and method) mentation of a response system feedback analyzer of the that can be optionally implemented in connection with any present invention, which is optionally implemented as at least notification system, for example, as at least part of the archi part of the architecture, functionality, and operation ofthe BS 15 tecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIGS. I and 3. FIG. 9A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impleFIG. 16A shows a possible screen message that can he mentation of the modify step in the response system feedback shown on a notified PCD during a notification communica analyzer of FIG. 8, which is optionally implemented as at tion for authentication purposes. FIG. 17A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of 20 mentation of a first mobile thing determination system (and the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. method; system and method are based upon pickup and FIG. 9B is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary implementation of the modify step in the response system dropoff locations that are communicated to the notification feedback analyzer of FIG. 8, which is optionally imple system) that can be optionally implemented in connection mented as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and 25 with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS man operation of the BS manager ofFIGS.l and3. FIG. 9C is a flow chart illustrating yet another exemplary agerofFIGS.l and3. FIG.17B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impleimplementation of the modify step in the response system mentation of a second mobile thing determination system feedback analyzer of FIG. 8, which is optionally imple mented as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and 30 (and method system and method are based upon pickup and dropoff locations that are communicated to the notification operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and3. system) that can be optionally implemented in connection FIG .1 0 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implemenwith any notification system, for example, as at least part of tation of the response system feedback mechanism, which is the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manoptionally implemented as at least a part of the architecture, functionality, and operation ofthc personal communications 35 ager of FIGS. 1 and 3, FIG.17C is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple device (PCD) ofFIG.l, and which interacts with the response mentation of a third mobile thlng detennination system (and system feedback analyzer of any of FIGS. 7 through 9C. FIG .11 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implemenmethod; system and method are based upon the detected tation of an advertisement method of doing business that can location of the PCD and/or user) that can be optionally imple be optionally implemented in connection with any notifica 40 mented in connection with any notification system, for tion system, example, as at leastpartofthe architecture, functionality, and FIG .12 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implemen operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. tation of another advertisement method of doing business that FIG. 17D is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple can be optionally implemented in connection with any noti mentation of a fourth mobile thing determination system (and fication system. 45 method; system and method are based upon the detected location of the PCD and/or user) that can be optionally impleFIG .13 is a flow chart j]]ustrating an exemplary implementation of yet another advertisement method of doing business mented in connection with any notification system, for that can be optionally implemented in connection with any example, as at leastpartofthearchitecture, fimctionality, and notification system, operation of the BS manager ofFIGS.l and 3. FIG.14A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple 50 FIG.18 is a flow chart illustrating anexemplazy implemen tation of a combined mobilethingtolocation (MTTL) and mentation of a first stop location determination system (and device-to location (DTL) notification system (and method) method; system and method are based upon feedback regarding the location of the PCD andloruser)that can be optionally that can be optionally implemented in connection with any implemented in connection with any notification system, for notification system, for example, as at least part of the arclli example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and 55 tecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and3. FIGS. I and 3. FlG. 14B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impleFIG.19A is a flow chart lliustrating an exemplary implementation of a second stop location determination system mentation of a first system (and method) for making more (and method; system and method arc based upon feedback accurate notifications by coruidering traffic flow predicament regarding the location of the PCD and/or user) that can be 60 data. This system can be optionally implemented in connec optionally implemented in cormection with any notification tion with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and opemtion of the BS manager ofFIGS.l and 3. manager ofFIGS.l and 3. FIG. 15A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple FIG. l9B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ mentation of a third stop location determination system (and 65 mentation of a second system (and method) for making more method; system and method are based upon timing criteria) accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predicament that can be optionally implemented in connection with any data. This system can be optionally implemented in connec
Exhibit B
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tion with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG.19C is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple mentation of a third system (and method) for making more accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predicament
erwise indicate which of the confirmed notified parties will be visited by the delivery vehicle. FIG. 29 is an illustration of an embodiment of a stop list generation system that may be used in connection with a delivery vehicle. The PCD associated with the delivery vehicle and driver communicates with the BSCU in order to data. This system can be Optionally implemented in connecdetermine whether or not a response pertaining to a stop has tion with any notification system, for example, as at least part been received. of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS FIG. 30 is an illustration of an embodiment that can be manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. 10 implemented at the BSCU or MTCU showing implementaFIG. 20A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impletion of failure states in connection with responses and nonrementation of a first system (and method) for monitoring travel sponses to notification communications in the context of a ofMTs that are PCDs and comnumicating notifications and delivery vehicle. responses among the PCDs. This system can be optionally FIG. 31 is an lllustration of another embodiment that can be implemented in connection with any notification system, for 15 implemented at the BSCU or MTCU showing implementaexample, as at least part of the architecture, filllctionality, and tion of failure states in connection with responses and nonre~ operation of the BS manager ofFIGS.l and 3. spouses to notification communications in the context of a FIG. 20B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple~ delivery vehicle. mentation of a second system (and method) for monitoring FIG. 32 is an illustration of an embodiment of route data travel ofMTs that are PCDs and communicating notifications 20 and corresponding driver display data that can be maintained and responses among the PCDs. This system can be optionand implemented in connection with a delivery or pickup ally implemented in connection with any notification system, service. for example, as at least part of the archltecture, functionality, FIG. 33 shows an example of a possible user interface and operation of the BS manager of FIGS.! and 3. screen that can be generated by theGUl ofFIG. 3 and used in FIG. 20C is a flow chart illustmting an exemplary imple- 25 connection with the response systems (and methods). mentation of a third system (and method) for monitoring FIG. 34 shows an example of a possible user interface travel ofMTs that are PCDs and communicating notifications screen that can be generated by the GUI ofFIG. 3 and used in and responses among the PCDs. This system can be option~ coimection with the response systems (and methods). ally implemented in connection with any notification system, FIG. 35 shows an example of a possible user interface for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, 30 screen that can be generated by the GUJ ofFIG. 3 and used in and operation of the BS manager ofFIGS.l and 3. connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 21 is an illustration of an exemplary system with FIG. 36 shows an example of a possible user interface various PCDs being tracked, communicating notifications to screen that can be generated by theGUJ ofFIG. 3 and used in other PCDs, and receiving responses from the other PCDs, all connection with the response systems (and methods). J5 by way of a base station control uillt. FIG. 37 shows an example of a possible user interface FIG. 22 is an illustration of an exemplary system with a screen that can be generated by the GUI ofFIG. 3 and used in PCD in the form of a first navigation system (a) tracking its connection with the response systems (and methods). location, (b) communicating a notification to another PCD in FIG. 38 shows an example of a possible user interface the fonn of a second navigation system, and (c) receiving a 40 screen that can be generated by the Gill ofFIG. 3 and used in response from the second navigation system, either indirectly connection witl1 the response systems (and methods). by way of a base st<ttion control unit or directly from naviga. FIG. 39 shows an example of a possible user interface tion system to navigation system. screen that can be generated by the Gill ofFIG. 3 and used in FIG. 23 is an illustration of a possible architecture for connection with the response systems (and methods). implementing the direct communications configuration 45 FIG. 40 shows an example of an email that can be generbetween a tracked PCD in the form of an in-vehicle navigaated and sent by the BSCU 40 of FIG. 3 and used in connection system and one or more other PCDs. tion with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 24 is a continuation of the example in FIG. 23 and FIG. 41 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary impleshows implementation of response requests and failure states. mentation of a computer~based notification failure detection FIGS. 25A through 25D illustrate examples of possible 50 system implemented in connection with a notified PCD. failure states the can be shown on the screen of the tracked FIG. 42 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplaryimplemen~ PCD. tation of notification failure detection software of FIG. 41. FIG. 26 is an illustration of an embodiment of a stop list generation system that may be used in connection with a DETAILED DESCRIPTION delivery vehicle. A stop list is compiled based upon whether 55 or not a stop requires a response and whether or not a response has been received from such stops that require one. A. Notification System FIG. 27 is an illustration of an embodiment of a stop list The systems and methods of this patent application can be generation system that may be used in connection with a implemented in connection with any type of notification ser~ delivery vehicle. A notified party is given a predetermined 60 vice or system, messaging system, information system, data time period to respond until a failure state is reached. The communications system, or tracldng system, that notifies a existence of failure states (No Responses) and confirmations party of travel status associated with one or more moving are communicated to the PCD associated with the delivery things (all referred to herein as "notification system"). The vehicle. notification system may or may not have a tracking subsystem FIG. 28 is an illustration of an embodiment of a stop list 65 that actually directly or indirectly tracks the mobile things generation system that may be used in connection with a (MTs), but has access to infonnation or data, perhaps from a delivery vehicle. A delivery vehicle driver can select or othtracking system(s) or data source, that can be used by it to
Exhibit B Page 176
US 7,504,966 B2
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10
entirety. The inventions that are claimed in this document can monitor travel of the MTs. There are a munber of such notibe implemented and practiced in the systems described in fication, messaging, and tracking systems that are known in these mentioned patents. the art. As mentioned in the Background, Mr. Martin Kelly Jones 1be claimed systems (and methods) of the invention can be implemented in many other known notification systems, mesM has been an active pioneering inventor in this area and has filed applications for patent on various notification systems, a saging systems, or tracking systems, that notify a party of few ofwhich, are as follows: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,400,020; 5,444, travel status associated with one or more moving things and that are not specifically referenced, shown, or described in 444; 5,623,260; 5,647,010; 5,648,770; 5,657,01 0; 5,668,543; this document for reasons of simplicity. and 5,400,020; 6,278,936; 6,317,060; 6,363,323; 6,363,254; 6,41!,89!; 6,415,207; 6,492,912; 6,510,383; and 6,618,668. 10 As a nonlimiting example, FIG. 1 depicts a notification All of the foregoing patents are incorporated herein by refersystem 10 illustrating a possible context, among others, in ence in their entirety. The inventions that arc claimed near the which the invention may be implemented. As shown by FIG. end ofthis doc~1ment can be implemented and practiced in the 1, the notification system 10 has a tracking aspect and a systems described in the foregoing patents, as will be clear notification aspect. from the discussion that follows. 15 As depicted in FIG. 1, an MT control unit (MTCU) 15 is A nonexbaustive list of other examples of notification sysM disposed on an MT 17, which is capable of transporting the terns is a'! follows: U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,159 (for a public bus MTCU 15 over various dista11ces. For example, :MT 17 can be transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,176 (for a public bus any movable object or thing, including but not limited to, a transit system); application Ser. No. 09/163,535, filedonSep. motor vehicle, such as an automobile, motorcycle, truck, bus, 30, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,739 (for a public transit sysM 20 limousine, or taxicab, a bicycle, an aircraft such as an airM tern); U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,940 (tracking system for buses; plane, helicopter, balloon, or rocket, a train, a water vehicle noticeofimpendingarrival is described); U.S. Pat. No. 5,808, such as a cruise ship, cargo ship, or other boat/ship, a package, 565 (GPS triggered automatic enunciator for public transporM a human being, an animal, an electronic email or transmistation vehicles that notifies of a stop based upon the location sion, an amusement park vehicle, or any other thing capable of the vehicle); U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,974 (apparatus carried by 25 of being moved across or through the Earth's surface and/or a userto notify of arrival so userdoesnotmiss stop); U.S. Pat. atmosphere. No. 5,987,377 (dispatch system that determines expected The notification service can be implemented in connection time of arrival and indicates to dispatcher when a vehicle will with any vehicle 17 for delivering items to a destination or for be late); U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,810 (vehicle apparatus deteru picking up items at a destination. Items can include any of mines when vehicle has arrived or departed from a planned or 30 many various types of packages or goods to be delivered or unplanned stop and communicates such information to a cenM picked up, for example but not limited to, mail, pizza, beverM tral facility); U.S. Pat. No. 6,137,425 (waiting time prediction ages, shipping vessels, containers, produce, etc. Furthermore, system fora public transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,378 (a items can also include persons to be picked up or delivered, vehicle navigation system where a start call, such as by teleM such as when a bus picks up and/or delivers passengers at phone, is made); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,184,802 (system for 35 different bus stops or such as when an airplane picks up and/or infonning users when a next vehicle will arrive at their boardM delivers passengers at airports. Although not necessary for ing site).All ofthe aforementioned patents or applications are implementation, the MT 17 can travel along a predetermined incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The invenM route or modifiable route in making its deliveries, and the MT tions that are claimed in this document can be implemented 17 may make one or more stops along its route in order to and practiced in the systems described in the foregoing patM 40 deliver or pick up different items at different locations. ents. The notification service can also be implemented in conM Furthermore, a nonexhaustive list of examples of, what ncction with any services to be delivered, or performed at or appear to be tracking systems, are as follows: U.S. Pat. Nos, near, a destination. The notification service can be imple5,014.206; 5,1 !3,!85; 5,155,689 ; 5,168,451 (transit system mented in connection with the tOllowing nonlimiting list of for dispatching vehicles); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,223,844; 5,243, 45 examples: maid service, pest control, telephone repair or 529 (in-vehicle navigation apparatus with map display); U.S. installation, television repair, cable repair or installation, garPat. Nos. 5,299,132; 5,394,332 (on-board navigation sysbage pick-up, yard maintenance, pool maintenance, power tem); U.S, Pat. Nos. 5,398, 190; 5,432,841 (system for locatM meter maintenance/reading, etc. ing and communicating with mobile vehicles); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,448,479; 5,483,454; 5,519,621; 5,587,715 (describes a satM 50 B. Mobile Thing Control Unit (MTCU) ellite based tracking system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,650 (deIn the preferred embodiment, a sensor 18 within MICU 15 scribes a tracking system with map display capabilities); U.S. is configured to sense signals to help determine and/or deterPat. Nos. 5,652,707; 5,724,243 (on board vehicle system mine the location of the sensor 18 relative to a predetermined tracks location and expected time of arrival); U.S. Pat. No. reference point. In the preferred embodiment, sensor 18 is a 5,739,774 (mass transit monitoring system); U.S. Pat. No. 55 global positioning system (GPS) sensor(s), although other types of positioning systems (having components that are 5,760,742 (integrated mobile GIS/GPS/AVL with wireless messaging); U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,365 (tlSes satellites, vehicle local to and/or remote from the MTCU 15) and/or sensors are also possible. For example, other types ofpositioning systems tracking units, and a central computer); U.S. Pat. No. 5,922, 040 (vehicle positioning data is exchanged between vehicles that may be used include, but are not limited to, GLONASS, and a central processor having a map display); U.S, Pat. No, 60 LORAN, Shoran, Decca, TACAN, radar, traffic system monitaring, a system for monitoring vehicle stops along a route, or 5,945,919 (dispatch system tracks vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. any other of numerous possible tracking systems or combi6,191,708 (vehicle location tracking without satellites); U.S. Pat. No. 6,253,148 (tracks buses and communicates waiting nations thereof. It is also possible to indirectly monitor the times to radio receivers); and US. Pat. No. 6,360,101 (celluM location of the MT 17 by monitoring or tracking pickup or lar phone that displays or sends messages upon its arrival at a 65 delivery- of people, products, packages, or things that are transported by the "MT 17. The GPS sensor18 of the preferred predetermined location). All of these mentioned patents or applications are incorporated herein by reference in their embodiment is configured to receive signals 21 from a pluM
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rality ofGPS satellites 23, and as kno\vn in the art, sensor 18 ing system, or other system that can fetch the instructions is designed to analyze signals 21 in order to determine the from the instn1ction execution system, apparatus, or device sensor's location or coordinate values relative to a predeterand execute the instructions.ln the context of this document, mined reference point. For example, in the preferred embodia "computer-readable medium" can be any means that can ment where sensor 18 is a GPS sensor, the sensor 18 deter- 5 contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the promines the sensor's location values relative to the Earth's zero gram for use by or in connection with the instruction execudegree latitude and zero degree longitude reference point, tion system, apparatus, or device. The computer readable medium can be, for example but not linD ted to, an electronic, which is located at the intersection of the Equator and the Prime Meridian. U.S. Pat. No. 5,781,156 entitled, "GPS magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconducReceiver and Method fof Processing GPS Signals" and filed 10 tor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples (a nonexhaustive list) of the computer on Apr. 23, 1997 by Krasner, which is incorporated herein by readable medium would include the following: an electrical reference, discusses a sensor fOr the processing of GPS sigconnection (electronic) having one or more wires, a portable nals 21 received from GPS satellites 23 in order to determine computer diskette (magnetic), a random access memory the sensor's location values. Since t11e sensor 18 is located within MTCU 15, the location values determined by the sen- 15 (RAM) (magnetic), a read-only memory (ROM) (magnetic), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or sor 18 are assumed to match the location values of the MT 17 and the MTCU 15. Flash memory) (magnetic), an optical fiber (optical), and a A location value can be any value or set of values that may portable compact disc read-only memory (CD ROM) (optibe used to determine a location of a point on the Earth or cal). Note that the computer-readable medium could even be within the Earth's atmosphere. Tills value may be a coordi- 20 paper or another suitable medium upon which the program is nate value (i.e., grid value), polar value, vector value, timeprinted, as the program can be electronically captured, via for instance optical scanning of the paper or other medium, then distance value, or any other type of value or values known in the art for indicating locations of points. compiled, interpreted or othel'VI'ise _processed in a suitable In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 may manner if necessary, and then stored in a computer memory. determine MI location information and merely transmit the 25 As an example, the MT manager 29 may be magnetically position information to the MT 17. For example, radar could stored and transported on a conventional portable computer diskette. be used to remotely track the MT 17 and then the radar system could be designed to convey MT position information to the An exemplary embodiment of the computer system 31a of MT 17 (and/or the base station control unit (BSCU) 40, which FIG. 2 comprise.<; one or more conventional processing elewill be described in detail hereinafter). 30 ments 32a, such as microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs ), or other suitable processing means, that communiIn alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 may be the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which collects cate to and drive the other elements within the system 31a via transponder data from airplanes, adds radar and other infora local interface 33a, which can include one or more buses. mation, and makes the resultant data available for tracking Furthermore, an input device(s) 34a, for example, a keypurposes. Ibis data feed is known in the aviation industry as 35 board, mouse, or trackball, can be used to input data from a '~ft..SDI," which stands for Aircraft Situation Display for user of the system- 31a, and screen display(s) 35a or a Industry. This data feed can be accessed by the BSCU 40 printer(s) 36a can be used to output data to the user. A non. (and/or the MTCU 15). volatile disk storage mechanism 37a can be connected to the In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 may local interface 33a to transfer data to and from a nonvolatile be associated with a computer system server communica- 40 disk (e.g., magnetic, optical, etc.). It should be noted that tively coupled to the lnternet that makes location infomtation input device 34a, display 3Sa, printer 36a. and disk storage pertaining to the MT 17 available to the BSCU 40 and/or to mechanism37a are optional and are nota part ofthe preferred embodiment, although other embodiments may include these the MTCU 15 over the Internet. In such embodiments, it is features. also possible for the BSCU 40 lo communicate the server's uniform resource locator (URL) to the notified PCD 75, 45 The MT manager 29 is preferably configured to maintain a which can be equipped with a web browser, so that location predefined MT schedule 39a within memory 30a. The predefined MT schedule 39a corresponds with a route of travel infonnation pertaining to the tracked MT 17 (as well as the PCD 75) can be accessed by the notified PCD 75 from the for the :MT 17. In this regard, the predefinedMT schedule 39a server. stored in memory 30a includes data defining locations along In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 may so the MT's intended route of travel. Furthermore, each location is associated with a particular time value indicating when the be a tracking system that tracks a vehicle's progress along a predetermined route based upon its arrival at and/or departure MT 17 is expected to reach the associated location. Each time from stops along the route. value along with its associated location defines an entry in the MI schedule 39a. Referring back to FIG. 1, sensor 18 is designed to transmit a signal 27 to MT manager 29 indicating the MT's current 55 Inlhepreferredembodiment, thetimevaluecorrespondsto the estimated amount of time that should lapse between the location values. MT manager 29 is configured to receive signal 27 and to monitor the location of the MT 17 over time time that the Mr 17 starts its intended route and the time that by processing multiple signals 27. The MT manager29 can be the MT 17 reaches the associated location along the route. implemented in software, hardware, or a combination However, other time values may be used. For example, the thereof In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated by way of 60 time of day that the MT 17 is expected to reach the associated location maybe used. A.ny time value that indicates when the example in FlG. 2, the :MT manager 29 along with its associated methodology is implemented in software and stored in MT 17 is expected to reach the associated location is suffiu computer memory 30a of a computer system 31a. cient. However, for illustrative purposes, the system will be Note that the MT manager 29 can be stored and transported discussed hereinafter assuming that the time values in the on any computer-readable medium for use by or in connec- 65 entries of the MT schedule 39a conform to the preferred embodiment(i.e., thatthetimevaluesrepresentthearnountof tion with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system, processor-containtime that should lapse between the time that the MT 17 starts
Exhibit B Page 178
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its intended rm1te and the time that the Mf 17 reaches the
14
is then the entry in Mf schedule 39a having the estimated time value that differs the least with the actual time value indicated by clock 38a. In this situation, the MI manager 29 compares the current location values from sensor 18 with the location values associated with the coiTesponding entry of the MT schedule 39a in order to determine whether or not the Mf 17 is on schedule. If the location values differ by more than a predefined threshold value, then the MI 17 is off schedule. Otherwise, the MT 17 is on schedule. Furthermore, if the acruallocation oftbe :MT 17 (as defined by the current location values from sensor 18) is further along the route of travel than the location associated with the corresponding entry (as defined by the location values in the corresponding entry), then the MT 17 is early. If the location associated with the corresponding entry (as defined by the location values in the corresponding entry-) is further along the route of travel than the actual location of the MT 17 (as defined by the current location values from sensor 18), then the MT 17 is late. In response to a determination by the MT manager 29 that the MT 17 is off schedule, the MT manager 29 is designed to transmit a status message to base station control unit 40 (BSCU; F1G. 1; essentially, the host computer), which is remotely located from the MT 17. The status message preferably indicates that MI 17 is off schedule and indicates the amount that MT 17 is off schedule. U.S. Pat. No. 6,363,254 entitled, "System and Method for Enciphering and Communicating Vehicle Tracking Information," describes a system and method for transmitting messages to BSCU 40. Theforegoing document is incorporated herein by reference.
associated location along the route). The MT manager29 is configured to monitor the amount of time that lapses as d1e MT 17 travels along the MT's route.
For example, the computer system 31a can include a clock 38a that indicates the time of day. In this situation, the :MT manager 29 is configured to store the time value of the clock 38a when the MT 17 begins the route. Therefore, the Mf manager 29 can determine the amount of time that has lapsed 10 since the start of the route by comparing the current time
value ofthe clock 38a versus the stored time value for the start of the route. Alternatively, the clock 38a can be designed as a counter that beglns timing or counting in response to a start signal transmined by the MT manager 29. Therefore, the MT manager 29 transmits the start signal when the MT 17 starts the route, and thereafter, the MT manager 29 can detennine
15
the amount oftime that has lapsed since the start of the route by analyzing the value of the clock 38a. Other devices and/or methodologies may be employed to determine the amount of 20 time that has lapsed since the start of the route.
As the MT 17 travels along the predetermined route of travel, the MT manager 29 is configured to determine the MT's current position by analyzing, the location values from the sensor 18. Furthermore, as the MT 17 travels, the MT 17 25 passes the points or locations along the route that are defined in the MT schedule 39a. The MT manager 29 is designed to compare the current location values of the MT 17 (i.e., of the sensor 18) with the location values defined by the MT schedule 39a in order to determine which entry in the MT schedule 30 39a corresponds with the current location ofthe MT 17. In the C. Base Station Control Unit (BSCU) preferred embodiment, the entry that corresponds with the BSCU 40 preferably, although not necessarily, includes a current location of the MT 17 is the entry having location base station (BS) manager 41 designed to monitor the travel values most closely matching the location values currently of each MT 17 associated with the notification system 10. In supplied by the sensor 18. In other words, the corresponding 35 the preferred embodiment, although not limited to this impleentry includes location values representing the location that is mentation, unlike the MTCU 15, the BSCU 40 is non-mobile closest to the location of the MT 17. This entry will be (although it could be in some embodiments). As an example, referred to hereinafter a<; the "corresponding entry." the BSCU 40 can be located in a central office of a telephone After determining which entry corresponds with the cur- 40 company. rent location ofthe MT 17, the rviT manager 29 is designed to The BS manager 41 can be implemented in software, barddetermine whether the MT 17 is off schedule or on schedule. ware, or a combination thereof. Jn the preferred embodiment, The MI 17 is off schedule if the amount of time that has as illustrated byway of example in FIG. 3, the BS manager41 lapsed since the start of the route differs from an estimated along with its associated methodology is implemented in lapsed time by a predetermined amount of time. In the pre45 software and stored in computer memory 30b of a computer ferred embodiment, the estimated lapsed time is represented system 3lb. The computer system 31b can be slmilar to by the time value in the corresponding entry of the Mf schedcomputer system 31a, as can be seen by comparing FJG. 2 to ule 39a .tv; an example, assume for illustrative purposes only FlG. 3. In this regard, the computer system 31b may include that the predetermined amount of time is five minutes. If the memory 30bfor storing tbeBS manager41, and the computer MT manager 29 detennines that the difference between the 50 system 31b may also include processing element 32b for actual lapsed time since the start of the trip and the estimated executing software, local interface 33b for cmmecting the lapsed time (i.e., the time value in the corresponding entry) is various components, input device(s) 34b (e.g., mouse, keygreater than five minutes, then the MT 17 is off schedule. board, etc.), display(s) 35b, printer(s) 36b, and nonvolatile Otherwise the MT 17 is on schedule. storage device(s) 37b. In the preferred embodiment, transFurthermore, if the MT 17 is off schedule, then the MT 55 ceiver (TX/RX) device(s) 52, 72 include one or more suitable manager 29 is also designed to determine whether the Ml' 17 network interfaces that allow the system 31b to communicate is early or late. If the actual time lapsed since the start of the data in connection with network 55 (FIG.1). trip is greater than the estimated lapsed time, then the MT 17 is late. If the actual time lapsed since the startofthetrip is less D. Transmission of a Status Message than the estimated lapsed time, then the MT 17 is early. 60 In order to transmit the status message to the BSCU 40, the Alternatively, the MT manager 29 can be configured to Mf manager 29 is configured to transmit the status message, select the corresponding entry in the predefined schedule39a via signal43 (FIG.1), to a communications device 44, which is capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from via comparison of time values instead of location values. In devices outside of MT 17. In this regard, communications this regard, the MT manager 29 can be configured to compare the current time value indicated by the clock 38a (e.g., the 65 device 44 is preferably, although not necessary, a cellular lapsed time since the start of the route) with the time values in modem configured to transmit and re.ceive wireless signals to the entries of the MT schedule 39a. The corresponding entry and from a cellular network 48 (FIG. 1).
Exhibit B Page 179
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The communications device 44 can transmit the starus message over the voice channels associated with the cellular
16
channel of the cellular network 48 to the other manager 29 or 41 indicating the protocol to be utilized, Thereafter, the MT manager 29 transmits messages to the BS manager 41 via the network 48, as is done by most cellular modems of the prior selected protocol. art. However, in order to reduce the cost associated with Cellular network 48 is designed to transmit the status roes~ transmitting the travel data through the cellular network 48, the status message may be communicated through the cellular sage to a communications device 52 (FIG. 1) at the BSCU 40. network 48 via a data or control channel. In this regard, the Although not necessary for implementation, cellular network status message can be encoded by altering identifiers of the 48 is preferably designed to transmit to the communications device 52 via a public switched telephone network (PSTN) communications device 44, such as the mobile identification number (MIN) or electronic serial number (ESN), transmit~ 10 55. In this regard, PSTN 55 establishes a link between com~ ted over a data chmmel of the cellular network 48. Alternaa munlcations device 52 and cellular network 48, whereby cellular network 48 and communications device 52 can com tivcly, the status message can be appended to a feature request municate via signals 61 and 65, which are transmitted over transmitted over the data channel. As examples, U.S. Pat. No. land~line connections in the preferred embodiment. There~ 5,771,445 entitled, "Data Messaging in a Communications Network using a Feature Request," filed on Dec. 15, 1995, by 15 fore, communications device 52 is preferably designed as or Kennedy, lll, et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,546,444 entitled, lo include a PS1N modem capable of communicating signals "Methods and Apparatus for Communicating Data Via a Cel~ 65 between BS manager 41 and PSTN network 55. Although the preferred embodiment utilizes a cellular net~ lular Network Control Channel" filed on Mar. 11, 1994, by Roach, Jr., et al., which are both incorporated herein by ref~ work 48 and a PSTN network 55 to communicate travel data erence, discuss the transmission of travel data over a data or 20 to BS manager 41, one ordinarily skilled in the art should control channel associated with the cellular network 48 in realize that other configurations are possible. For example, further detail. Also, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,401, which is communications device 52 can be configured as a cellular incorporated herein by reference and which describes a sys~ modem capable of communlcating signals directly with eel~ tem for conununications over a wireless network as well as lular network 48, Alternatively, utilization of comrnunica~ text messaging to personal pagers. Also, see U.S. Pat. No. 25 tions networks 48 and 55 can be completely circumvented by 5,544,225, which is incorporated herein by reference and configuring the communications device 44 to communicate which describes a system for commllllications over a wireless directly with communications device 52, for example. Any network as well as communication of the location or status embodiment capable of communicating data between MT information of a mobile item. manager 29 and BS manager 41 should be suitable. In order to transmit the status message through a data 30 It should be noted that by transmitting a status message channel by manipulating identifiers of the communications only when the MT 17 is off schedule reduces the cost of device 44, the MIN of the communications device 44 is operating the notification system 10. In this regard, conunu~ altered to include the status message, but the ESN :remains nication through a cellular network 48 is relatively expensive, fixed to be used as an identifier of the commullications device and the cost is based on the amount of data transmitted. By 44. Therefore, after transmitting the identifiers through the 35 refraining from transmitting any data from the MT manager data channel, the communlcations device 44 can be identified 29 to the BS manager 41 when the MT 17 is on schedule, the by the ESN, and the status message can be determined from amount of data transmitted through the cellular network 48 is the MIN. Alternatively, the ESN of communications device reduced, thereby reducing the communications cost associ44 can be altered while the MIN is kept constant. It should be ated with the notification system 10. Therefore, the methodunderstood that the invention contemplates modification of 40 ology of assuming the MT 17 is on schedule and of only the MIN, ESN, both the MIN and ESN, or other identifiers of transmitting data to the BS manager 41 when the MT 17 is off the communications device 44 to accomplish the dual task of schedule enables the notification system 10 to minimize transmitting status messages and identifying the communica~ costs. It should be noted that the foregoing feature is optional. tions device 44. Alternatively or in combination with the manipulation of 45 E. Base Station Manager the identifiers of the communications device 44, the starus BS manager 41 is designed to monitor the travel of the Mf message can be conununicatcd through the data channel by 17 and (when employed in the context of advance notification appending the status message to feature requests that are system 10) is also designed to transmit a notification message transmitted through the data channel. In this regard, most to a user when the MT 17 is a predetermined proximity from feature requests are generated by automatically or manually 50 a particular MT destination or other location. The predetermined proximity can be a particular time or distance that the dialing the star key ("*") followed by a two~digit feature request identification code, and 29 digits of data. Therefore, MT 17 is from the destination. If the MT 17 is off schedule, for each feature request generated, 29 diglts of data pertaining then the BS manager 41 is further configured to transmit a to the status message can be appended to the two~digit feature message to the user indicating that the MT 17 is off schedule. request identification code and sent over the data channel of 55 The BS manager 41 of tracking notification system 10 is the wireless cellular network 48. Other embodiments may designed to determine the current location oftl1e MT 17 and transmit different amounts of data following the feature to compare the current location of the MT 17 to a predefined request. By utilizing the manipulation of identifiers or the location along the route of travel of the MT 17 in order to appendage of travel data to feature requests, less data is trans~ determine whether notification should be sent to the user. In mitted through the voice channels of the cellular network 48, 60 this regard, like the MT manager 29, the BS manager 41 thereby reducing the cost of transmitting data through the includes a predefined schedule 39b, referred herein as the "base station schedule 39b," in memory 30b. Furthermore, cellular network 48. In order for successful conununication to exist between similar to the computer system 31a (FIG. 2), the computer MT manager 29 and BS manager 41, both managers 29 and system 31b (FIG. 3) includes a clock 39b or other type of 41 should be aware of the conununications protocol utilized. 65 counter that can be used to determine the amount of time that Therefore, it is desirable for the BS manager 41 or the MT has lapsed since the MT 17 started traveling along the MT's manager 29 to initially transmit an iustmction via the data route. When the MT 17 begins the route, the MI manager 29 Exhibit B Page 180
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preferably transmits a message to the BS manager 41 via communications devices 44 and 52 indicating that travel on the route is beginning. In response, the BS manager 41, like the MT manager 29, begins monitoring the amount of time lapsed since the start of the route. s
18
17 is off schedule (i.e., how far the MT 17 is from the esti~ mated location). For example, the status message can indicate that the MT 17 is five miles off schedule. Therefore, the BS manager 41 is designed to calculate new location values based on the estimated location and the status message. These new location values represent the actual location of the MT In the preferred embodiment, the base station schedule 39b stored in memory 30b matches the MT schedu1e39a stored in 17. Therefore, by using the new location values instead of the values in the corresponding entry, the BS manager 41 can memory 30a, although variations in the two predefined determine whether a notification message should be sent to schedules 39a and 39b are possible. Furthermore, the BS manager 41 is configured to retrieve an entry, the "corre~ 10 the user according to the methodology described herein~ sponcling entry," in the base station schedule 39b correspond~ above. ing with the amount of time lapsed since the Mf 17 began Furthermore, instead of indicating how far the MT 17 is travelling its route. In this regard, the BS manager 41 com~ from the estimated location via location values, the status pares the amount of time that has lapsed since the MT 17 message can indicate how fur the MT 17 is from the estimated began its route (as determined from the clock 38b at the 15 location via a time value (e.g., the status message can indicate BSCU 40) with the time values in the base station schedule that lhe MT 17 is ten minutes late). ln this case, the BS 39b. The corresponding entry in the base station schedule39b manager 41 is designed to adjust the time value in the corre. is the entry having the time value differing the least with the sponding entry to account for the MT 17 being off schedule. value indicated by the clock 38b (i.e., the time value indicatFor example, if the MI 17 is early, then the time value in the ing the amount of time that has lapsed since the MT 17 began 20 corresponding entry is increased a corresponding amount, its route). and if the MT 17 is late, then the time value in the correspondThe BS manager 41 assumes that the MT 17 is on schedule, ing entry is decreased a corresponding amount. This adjusted unless the BS manager 41 has received a recent stahlS mestime value is then compared with the predetermined threshold value described hereinabove in order to determine whether sage from the 1IT manager 29. As used herein, a "recent status message" is the most recent statl;ls message that has 25 notification should be sent. lfthe adjllstcd time exceeds the been received by the BS manager 41 within a predetermined predetermined time value, then the BS manager 41 causes a time. For example, a recent status message could be the latest notification message to be transmitted to the user. status message received within the last five minutes, or at the In an alternative embodiment, the location values transmit start of a route, or some other suitable time frame. Therefore, ted in the status message can represent the actual location of if the BS manager 41 bas not received a recent status message 30 the MT 17 instead of representing how far the MT 17 is off from the MT manager 29, then the BS manager 41 assumes schedule. In this embodiment, the BS manager 41 can be that the location values in the corresponding entry of the designed to directly compare these location values with the predefined base station schedule 39b indicate the current location values defining the predetermined proximity in order location of the MT 17. to detennine whether notification should be sent to the user. Recalling that BS manager 41 (when employed within the 35 Accordingly, if these location values differ from the location context of notification system 10) is to transmit a notification values defining the predetermined proximity by less than a message when -the MT 17 is a predetermined proximity from predetermined amount, then the BS manager 41 transmits a a particular location (e.g., a predefined MT stop, etc.), the BS notification message to the user. Otherwise, no notification manager 41 then compares the location values in the corre~ message is sent to the user. spond:lng entry (which represent the current location of the 40 Furthermore, when the BS manager 41 determines that the Iv1T 17) with location values defining the predetennined prox~ MT 17 is off schedule, the BS manager 41 preferably trans~ imity. If the location values from the corresponding entry mits an off schedule message to the user, as described here~ differ from the location values of the predetermined proxim~ inbelow, to notify the user that the MT 17 is off schedule. This ity by less thana predetermined amount, then the BS manager message can include a variety of information including, but 41 transmits a notification message to the user. Otherwise no 45 not limited, how much (in time or distance) the MT 17 is off notification message is transmitted to the user. schedule. However, it should be noted that communication of Alternatively, the BS manager 41 can be configured to the off schedule message is not a necessary feature. compare time values instead of location values in order to detenninewhether a notification message should be transmit~ F. Transmission of Off Schedule (llld Notification Messages ted to the user. In this regard, the BS manager 41 is designed 50 Once the BS manager 41 of systems 10 and 12 determines that a notification or an off schedule message should be sent to compare the time value in the corresponding entry with a predetermined threshold value indicating the amount of time to a user, the BS manager 41 is designed to communicate the that should lapse between the 1IT 17 starting its route and message to the user via PSTN network 55 and cornmunica arriving at a location associated with the predetenninedprox tions devices 72 and 73 (FJG. 1). In this regard, communica imity(e.g.,athresholdvalueindicatinghow1ong~MT17 55 tions devices 72 and 73 are or include PSTN transceiver should travel along its route before notification should be sent modems capable of interfacing with and communicating with to the user).lfthe threshold value in the corresponding entry PSTN network 55. BS manager41 is designed to transmit the exceeds the predetermined time value, then the BS manager message as signal 70 to user communications device 72, which communicates the message with PTSN network 55 via 41 causes a notification message to be communicated to the user. 60 signal74. PTSN network 55 then communicates the message IftheBS manager41 ofnotificationsystem 10 has received to personal communications device (PCD) 75, which has a receiver and a transmitter, or a transceiver, denoted by block a recent status message from the MT manager29, then the BS manager 41 determines the actual location values of the MT 73, in the preferred embodiment. 17basedon the location values in the corresponding entry and PCD 75 is configured to notify the user and communicate the recent status message. In this regard, the location values in 65 a notification message, whlchmaymerely be a ring in the case the corresponding entry represent the estimated location of of a telephone or pager, optionally accomparried by an the MT 17. The status message indicates how much the MT audible, text, and/or other message that can be communiExhibit B
Page 181
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cated. A PCD 75 is a communications device that can be
20
defined by a variety of methodologies. For example, the predetermined schedules 39a and 39b can be estimated based on personally associated with a party and enable point.to-point various factors, such as the types of speeds likely to be travcommunications between the notification system 10 and the eled by the MT 17 and the types of traffic conditions expected party: Nonlimiting examples of PCDs 75 are as follows: a to be encountered during travel. However, in the preferred personal computer (PC) capable of displaying the notification embodiment, the predefined schedules 39a and 39b are through e-mail or some other communications software, a defined via aprevious delivery of the MT 17 along the same television, a wireless (e.g., cellular, satellite, etc.) or nonwireless telephone, a pager, a personal data assistant, a naviroute of travel. gation system in a motor vehicle, a radio receiver or transIn this regard. delivery vehicles 17 frequently travel the ceiver, or any other device capable of notif)ring the user with 10 same routes. This is especially true for buses, for example, some type of user perceptible emission. Many, although not where a bus routinely travels the same route and makes the all, PCDs 75 are transportable. Furthcnnorc, a plurality of same stops. As the MT 17 is traveling the route, the MT commtmications devices 72 may exist in some applications, manager 29 is configured to perio<lically read the sensor 18 so that the BS manager 41 can simultaneously or substantially and to store an entry in memory 30a. The entry preferably concurrently notify a plurality of parties having respective 15 includes the current location values of the MT 17 indicated by devices 72 of the impending arrival of the Mf 17 at a partiCltsensor 18 and the time value inclicated by clock 38a (i.e., the larMTstop. time value indicating the amount of time that has lapsed slnce the start ofthe travel on the route). Therefore, when the MT 17 Note that examples of useful PCDs 75 that can be utilized reaches the end of the route, the MT manager 29 has stored to implement many of the features described in this docmnent are portable wireless telephones having image capabilities 20 numerous entries which define the predefined :MT schedule (e.g., a Sanyo Model8100 wireless PCS vision picture phone 39a. This predefined schedule 39a may also be used as the base station schedule 39b. Other methodologies may be distributed by Sprint, a Sony Ericsson T300 wireless picture employed to define the MT schedule 39a and/or the base phone clistributed by T Mobile, etc.). The Wireless Access station schedule 3Qb. Protocol (W.A.P; developed by the WAP Forum; see WAP Version 2.0 specification at www.wapforum.org, which is 25 FIG. 4A is a flow chart depicting the operation and funcincorporated herein by reference in its entirety) can be impletionality of the MT manager 29 in embodiments where the mented in connection with wireless telephones in order to MT manager 29 determines the MT schedule 39a while travenable these telephones to communicate witl1 (send data eling along the routeoftravel. As shown by blocks 76 and 77, packets to and/or receive data packets from) computers or the MT manager 29 determines whether a sample period has computer-based devices, such as servers, that are communi- 30 expired while the MT 17 is traveling on the route (i.e., before catively coupled to the World Wide Web 0NWW) of the the :NIT 17. has finished the route). The sample period is a lnternet (by way of their respective cellular or PCS networks). predetermined amount of time that lapses between samples, Note further that the PCDs 75 can be non-standard input! which will be discussed in more detail hereinbelow. Preferably, the MT clock 38a indicates whether the sample period output (I/0) devices that can be communicated with over an open network, such as the Internet, using an extended open 35 has expired. For example, when the clock 38a is a counter, the sample period can be defined as a predetermined number of network protocol, such as extended HTML, as is described in counts by the clock 38a. Therefore, the Mf manger 29 can U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,742,845 and 5,905,908, both of which are determine whether the sample period has expired by counting incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. the number of increments or cycles of the clock 38a. .Although the preferred embodiment utilizes a PSTN netWhen the MT manager 29 determines that the sample work 55 to communicate a notification or an off schedule 4D period has expired, the MT manager 29 samples the current message to PCD 75, one ordinarily skilled in the art should location values of the :NIT 17 and the time value of the clock realize that other configurations are possible. For example, other communications networks can be utilized or utilization 38a. In other words, the MI manager 29 determines the of communications networks can be completely circumcurrent location values of the MT 17 and the current time vented by configuring communications device 72 to comnm- 45 value from the clock 38a and stores these values in. the next nicate directly with communications device 73.Any commuentry of the Mf schedule 39a, as depicted by blocks 78 and 79. This process repeats until the MT manager 29 determines nications system capable of communicating data between BS manager 41 and PCD 75 should be suitable. that the Mf 17 has completed the route. Thereafter, the MT manager 29 can use the rviT schedule 39a to track the MT' s As an example, the BS manager 41 may notify the user of the impending arrival of the :NIT 17 by transmitting a dist:inc- 50 progress on future deliveries that utilize the route defined by the MT schedule 39a. tive ring to the user's message device. In this embodiment, the PCD 75 is a telephone. A distinctive ring is a ringing cadence H. Alarm System that is different than the standard ringing cadence used to The MT manager 29 can be configured to compare the notify the user of a telephone call. Since the user can different the different ringing cadence, the user is aware that the tele- 55 corresponding entry and the location values supplied from the sensor 18 in order to determine whether an alarm signal phone call corresponds to a notification message from the BS should be generated. In this regard, the MT manager 29 manager41 indicating that anival oftheMT 17 is inuninent. preferably subtracts the location values in the corresponding A system for transmitting a distinctive telephone ring as the entry from the current location values of the MT 17 (as notification message is fully described in U.S. patent application entitled, "Advance Notification System and Method 60 determined by the sensor 18) to produce a deviation indicator. Therefore, the deviation in<licator indicates how far the MT Utilizing a Distinctive Telephone Ring," assigned Ser. No. 17 has deviated from the route defined by the Mf schedule 08/762,052 and filed on Dec. 9, 1996, which is incorporated 39a. herein by reference. The MT manager29 is then designed to comparethedeviaG. Creal ion of the MI and Base Station Schedules 65 tionindictortoanalarmthresho1dva1ueto determine whether It should be noted that the predefined MT schedule 39a and an alarm signal should be transmitted to the BS manager 41. the predefined base station schedule 39bcan be determined or The alarm threshold value corresponds with the distance that Exhibit B Page 182
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21
the MT 17 can deviate from the predefined MT schedule 39a
22
threshold value, the MT manager 29 generates an alarm signal. Otherwise, no alann signal is generated. Further note that U.S. Pat. No. 5,751,245, which is entirely incorporated herein by reference describes an alarm system that can be employed when a vehicle substantially departs from a predetermined route, for the security of transported cargo.
before an alam1 is generated. Therefore, if the deviation indi-
cator exceeds the alarm threshold value, the MT manager 29 transmits an alann message to the BS manager 41 via communications devices 44 and 52. Preferably the alarm message includes the current location values produced by the sensor 18 so that the travel of the MT 17 can be tracked by the BS manager41. I. Alternative Embodiment of the MTCU Providing an alann message, as described hereinabove, In an alternative embodiment of the :MTCU, the "correhelps to discover when an MT 17 has been .stolen or hijacked 10 sponding entry"ofthe Mf schedule 39a can be defined as the and helps law enforcement agencies to recover the MT 17 by entry having location values defining a location along the tracking the travel of the MT 17 once the MT 17 has been route that was most recently passed by the MT 17. TI1erefore, stolen. In this regard, the MT manager 29 automatically genthe MT manager 29 monitors the signals 27 from the sensor erates an alarm message and monltors travel of the MT 17 18 until the MTmanager29 determines thatthe.MT 17passed 15 once the MT 17 deviates from the MT schedule 39a by a a location corresponding with one of the entries in the MT predetermined amount. The alarm message can be used by schedule 39a. The MT manager 29 determines whether the law enforcement agencies to discover when the MT 17 has MT 17 is early or late via the techniques described herein~ been stolen and where the MT 17 is located, thereby helping above using the aforementioned entry as the corresponding law enforcement agencies to recover the MT 17 once it has 20 entry. been stolen. After determining whether to genemte an alarm signal Because the deviation indicator is defined relative to points and/or status message for the corresponding entry (and after along the MT' s route of travel, an alann can be generated generating the alarm signal and/or the status message, if when the MT 17 deviates from the route by a relatively small necessary), the MT manager29 monitors the signals 27 again amount. For example, the MT manager 29 can be configured for the next corresponding entry. Therefore, when a correto transmit an alarm signal when the MT 17 deviates from its 25 sponding entry is detected (i.e., when the MT manager 29 predefined route by approximately 20 feet. Other distances, determines that the MT 17 passed a location corresponding both less than and greater than 20 feet, may be used to trigger with the location values in one of the entries of the MT an alann signal. However, it is generally desirable that a schedule 39a for the first time), the MT manager 29 analyzes certain amount of deviation (depending on the expected drivthe values of the sensor 18, the clock 38a, and the corresponding conditions and the precision of sensor 18) be allowed so 30 ing entry to detennine whether an alarm signal and/or status that the MT 17 can reasonably maneuver through traffic withmessage should be generated. Thereafter, the MT manager 29 out generating false alarms. waits until the next corresponding entry is detected before determining whether to genemte another status message. In addition, the alann threshold value is selectable in the Therefore, the MI manager 29 determines whether a status preferred embodiment. This value can be entered into the 35 message should be communicated to the BS manager 41 each computer system 31a by a human operator at the MT 17 via time the MT 17 passes a location corresponding with the inpllt device 34a, for example. Alternatively, this value can be location values in one of the entries of the MT schedule 39a, communicated from the BS manager 41 to the MT manager and the MT manager 29 refrains from communicating status 29 via communications devices 44 and 52 at or around the messages as the MT 17 travels between locations defined by start of the route. The alarm threshold value can also be 40 the data in the MT schedule 39a. In other words, the only time hardwired into the computer system 31a with switches that the MT manager 28 transmits a status message is when the can be manipulated by a human operator in order to selec:MT 17 is passing a location corresponding with one of the tively change the value. Many other methodologies known in entries in the MT schedule 39a or a short time thereafter. the art may be used for selecting the value of the alarm However, since it is possible for the MT 17 not to pass any threshold value. 45 of the locations defined in the predefined schedule when the It should be noted that in other embodiments, it may be MT 17 deviates from the route (e.g., when the MT 17 is desirable for the Mf manager 29 to generate an alarm signal stolen), the MTmauager 29preferably determines whether to based on comparisons of the location of MT 17 to a precommunicate an alarm signal periodically rather than waiting defined geographical region instead of the route defined in MT schedule 39a. For example, it may desirable to define a 50 for one of the locations defined by the MT manager 29 to be passed. region that is 30 miles (or some other distance) from the start of the route (or some other particular location). Then, the MT J. Overall Notification System Operation manager 29 can be configured to generate an alarm signal if A possible implementation of use and operation of the the MT manager 29 determines that the MT 17 is outside of notification system 10 and associated methodology are this predefined region based on the signals 27 received from 55 described hereafter. For illustrative purposes only, assume sensor 18. Such a methodology for generating an alarm signal that the MT 17 is to travel a predetermined route to a destii~ particularly suitable for applications where only local nation where the MT 17 is to pick up or deliver an item. For deliveries are expected, fOr example. example, assume that the MT 17 is a bus that is to travel to a There are various methodologies for determining whether bus stop to pick up a passenger and that this passenger is to the MT 17 is outside of the predefined region. For example, in 60 receive a notification signal when the MT 17 is ten minutes from the bus stop. one embodiment, the MT manger 29 subtracts the current Initially, the MT schedule 39a is stored in the MT manager location values determined from signals 27 with the location 29 and the base station schedule 39a is stored in the BS values of a particular point (e.g., the location values of the manager 41. Tn the preferred embodiment, the Mf schedule start of the route, when the region is defined as any point within a certain distance of the start of the route) to derive the 65 39a was created and stored in the MT manager 29 as the MT 17 previously traveled along the same route. A copy of the MT deviation indicator. As in the preferred embodiment, if the schedule 39a is preferably transferred to the BS manager 41 deviation indicator has a magnitude greater than the alarm
Exhibit B
Page 183
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24
via any suitable methodology and stored as the base station position of the MT 17 relative to the reference point and schedule 39a. For example, the MT schedule 39a can be transmits these values to MT manager 29. The MT manager 29 compares the current location values copied to a magnetic disk and later downloaded in memory 30b or a copy of the MT schedule 39a can be transmitted to of the MT 17 with the location values in the MT schedule 39a the BS manager 41 via communications devices 44 and 52. in order to determine which entry in the Mf schedule 39a corresponds with the current location of the MT 17, as shown In embodiments where the MT schedule 39a is not previ~ byblock87 ofFIG. 4B. The corresponding entry is preferably ously created and stored by the MT manager 29, the MT the entry having location values that most closely match the schedule 39a is preferably downloaded into both the BS current location values received from the sensor 18. manager 41 and the MT manager 29. It is possible to down~ After selecting the corresponding enby, the MT manager load the base station schedule39a in the BS manager 41 and 10 29 retrieves the location values associated with the corre~ to transmit a copy of the base station schedule 39a to the MT sponding entry and subtracts these values from the current manager 29 via communications devices 44 and 52 prior to location values received from the sensor 18 and used by the the start of the route .luly methodology for respectively slor~ MT manager 29 to select the corresponding entry. Referring ing the MT schedule 39a and the base station schedule 39b into the Mf manager 29 and the BS manager 41 is suitable. 15 to block 91 of FIG. 4B, the resulting value or values (referred to as the deviation indicator) indicates the MT's deviation When the MT 17 begins travel, the MT manager 29 stores from the MT schedule39a. As shown by block 93 ofFIG. 4B, the current value of the MT clock 38a and begins to monitor MT manager 29 then compares the deviation indicator to the the amount of time that lapses from that point until compte~ the alarm threshold value. If the deviation indicator exceeds tion of the route. Furthermore, as can be seen by block 82 of 20 the alann threshold value, then the MT manager 29 transmits FIG. 4B, the MT manager 29 also transmits a start signal to analannmessage to the BS manager41, as depicted by block the base station manger 41 via communications devices 44 95 ofFIG. 4B. The alarm message includes the current loca~ and 52 indicating that travel of the MT 17 is beginning. In tion of the MT 18, and the BS manager 41 tracks the location response, the BS manager 41 begins to monitor the lapsed of the MT 17 based on the alann messages transmitted from time as well. 25 the MT manager 29. The infonnation provided by the alarm In many situations, it may be desirable to begin monitoring message can be used by law enforcement agencies to track the travel of the MT 17 after the MT 17 starts its route. This is MT17. particularly true when unpredictable delays usually occur After detennining whether an alarm message should be close to the staring point of the route. For example, when the generated, the JvfT manager 29 retrieve.; the time value assoMT 17 is a school bus taking children home from school, 30 ciated with the corresponding entry and compares it with the unpredictable delays may occur close to the starting point time value indicated by clock 38a (i.e., the time value indi~ (i.e., at the school) where traffic is often congested. Therefore, eating the amount of time elapsed since the start of the route). instead of transmitting a start signal to the BS manager 41 The MT manager 29 also retrieves a predetermined threshold when the MT 17 begins traveling, the MT manager 29 waits value indicating how much the MT 17 can deviate from the for a predetennined time period or until the MT 17 has trav~ 35 MT predefined schedule 39a before the MT 17 is considered eled a predetemllned distance from the starting point before to be off schedule. Referring to.block 97 of FIG. 4B, if the transmitting the start signal. For example, the MT manager 29 difference of the foregoing time values exceeds the predeter~ can monitor the travel of the MT 17 from the starting point via mined threshold value, then the MT manager 29 determines the sensor 18 and transmit the start signal once the MT man~ that the MT 17 is off schedule. However, if the difference of ager 29 determines that the MT has traveled one~eighth of a 40 the foregoing time values is less than the predetermined mile from the starti1lg point. In this regard, location values threshold value, then the MT manager 29 detennines that the representing a predetermined point along the route of travel Mf 17 is on schedule. and one-eighth of a mile from the starting point can be stored When the Mf manager 29 determines that the :MT 17 is on in the MT manager 29. When the MT manager 29 determines schedule, the MT manager takes no further action regarding that the MT 17 passes this point, the Mf manager 29 deter~ 45 the current location values received from the sensor 18. The mines that the MT 29 has traveled more than one~eighth of a MT manager 29 merely receives a new set of location values mile and transmits the start signaL from the sensor 18 and analyzes the new set of values accord~ Preferably, the predetennined schedules 39a and 39b both ing to the methodology described herein. However, when the use the point where the MT manager 29 transmits the start MT manager 29 determines that the MT 17 is offschedule, the signal as the starting point for the route. Therefore, the dis~ so MT manager 29 generates a status message and transmits the tances and times stored in the predetennined schedules 39a status message to the BS manager 41, as depicted by block 99 and 39b are relative to the predetermined location where MT ofF!G. 4B. manager 29 transmits the start signal instead of the actual In this regard, the MT manager 29 determines whether the starting point of the route. However, this is not a necessary MT 17 is early or late and how far the MT 17 is off schedule feature, and the location values and time values stored in the 55 (e.g., how many minutes or miles the MT 17 is from the predetennined schedules 39a and 39b may be relative to other location specified by the location values in the corresponding points both along the route oftravel and outside of the roule of entry} The Mf manager 29 then generates a status message travel. including this information and transmits the status message to As the MT 17 travels, GPS satellites 23 transmit wireless the BS manager 41 via communications devices 44 and 52. signals 21 to sensor 18 that can be analyzed through tech~ 60 Inordertoreducethenumberoftransmissionsbetweenthe Diques well known in the art to detennine a position (i.e., MT 17 and the base station control unit 40, the MT manager 29 preferably (although not necessary) transmits the status current location values)ofthe sensor 18 (and, therefore, of the MT 17) relative to a particular reference point, as depicted by message to the BS manager 41 only if another status message block 85 of FTG. 4R. For example, in GPS systems, the hasnotbeentransmittedwithinapredetermineddelayperiod. intersection of the Equator and the Prime Meridian is typi~ 65 For example, if a status message has been sent withln a predetermined time period, for example, within the last five cally used as the reference point. Sensor 18 receives the signals 21 and detennines location values representing the minutes, then the MT manager 29 refrains from sending Exhibit B
Page 184
US 7,504,966 B2
25
26
In determining the current location of the MT 17, the BS another stan1s message. It should be apparent to one skilled in manager 41 assumes that the Mf 17 is on schedule unless a the art that other delay periods can be selected to update the recent status message has been received. Therefore, the MT location of the MT 17 at a desirable rate. manager 41 determines which entry in the base station schedFurthermore, it is possible to selectively control the delay ule 39b corresponds to the assumed location of the MT 17. In period. For example, when the MT 17 stops to make a deliv this regard, the MT manager 41 compares the time values in ery or is slowly traveling through congested areas, it may be the base station schedule 39b with a lapsed time value indidesirable to increase the delay period to decrease the number cating how much time has lapsed since the MT 17 started the of status messages sent to the BS manager 41. Alternatively, route. The entry having a time value closest to this lapsed time when the MT 17 is traveling quickly and the location of the MT 17 is changing rapidly, it may be desirable to decrease the 10 value is the corresponding entry. The location values associated with the corresponding entry represent the assumed locadelay period. Furthennore, when the MT 17 enters an area tion of the MT 17. Unlc.<>s a recent status message has been where no immediate deliveries or pick ups are to made, there received, the BS manager 41 uses these location values as the is no immediate need to monitor the MT 17 and the delay current location values to be compared against the location period can be increased. The delay periods can be predefined in memory 30a, can be controlled by the operator of the MT 15 values of the predetermined location (e.g., the bus stop) in order to determine whether a notification message should be 17, or can be controlled via signals transmitted from remote sent to the user. However, if a recent status message has been locations to the M.T manager 29 (e.g., from the BS manager received, then the BS manager 41 determines the current 41 to the MT manager 29 via communications device 44). location values of the MT 17 based on the recent status Other methodologies for controlling the delay periods are 20 message and/or the location values associated with the cor~ possible. responding entry. A.nother way to reduce the number of transmissions of For example, ifthe recent status message includes location status messages at desired times is to selectively increase the values indicating the actual location ofthe MT 17, then the BS predefined amount that the MT 17 should be off schedule manager 41 uses these values to compare \Vith the coordinate before a status message is transmitted to the base station 25 values of the predetermined location (e.g., the bus stop). control manager 41. Similar to the changes in the delay periHowever, if the status message only indicates how much the ods described above, the changes to the aforementioned preMT 17 is off schedule, then the BS manager 41 calculates the defined amount can be predefined in memory 30a, can be current location values of the MT 17 based on the status controlled by the operator of the MT 17, or can be controlled message and the location values associated with the correvia signals transmitted from remote locations to the MT man30 spending entry in the base station schedule 39b. ager 29 (e.g., from BS manager 41 to MT manager 29 via Once the current location values of the MI 17 have been communications device 44). determined, the BS manager 41 compares the current location The input device 34a (FIG. 2) can be used to input changes values of the MT 17 with the location values of the predeterin the delay period and/or in the predefined amount that the mined location (e.g., the bus stop) as previously described MT should be off schedule before a status message is trans- 35 hereinabove to dcterinine whether a notification signal should mitted. In this regard, the input device 34 a may include be transmitted to the user. switches, buttons, a key pad, or any other device that can be The operation of the preferred embodiment has been manipulated by the operator of the MT 17 to input the described hereinabove in the context where the Mf manager changes. 29 compares location values to detemllne the corresponcling When the BS manager 41 receives a status message, the BS 40 entry in the MT predefined schedule 39a. Therefore, the MT manager 41 stores the status message in memory 30b. If manager 29 compares the time value associated with the desired, the BS manager 41 transmits a message to the user corresponding entry in the MT schedule 39a to determine via communications devices 72 and 73 indicating that the MT whether or not the MT 17 is on schedule. However, it should 17 is off schedule and indicating how much the MT 17 is off be apparent to one skilled in the art upon reading this discloschedule in response to the status message. 45 sure that time values may be compared by the MT manager 29 to determine the corresponding entry in the MT predefined The BS manager 41 periodically determines whether a notification message should be sent to the user indicating that schedule 39a. arrival of the MT 17 at the bus stop is imminent (e.g., indiR In this regard, the entry in the MT schedule 39a having a eating that the !\IT 17 is ten minutes from the bus stop ).1n this time value most closely matching the lapsed time valueindiregard, the notification message should be sent to the user so cated by the clock38a (i.e., the value indicating the amount of when the MT 17 is within a predetermined proximity (i.e., a time lapsed since the start of the rm1te) can be selected as the corresponding entry. As a result, the Mf manager 29 deterpredetermined time or distance) from the bus stop. To determines how far the MT 17 is off schedule based on distance mine whether the notification message should be sent, the BS manager 41 compares the location values of the current locarather than time. For example, if the difference between the tion of the MT 17 to the location values of the predetermined 55 current location values of the MT 17 (as detennined by the sensor 18) and the location values associated with the correlocation (e.g., the bus stop). If the difference between the location values of the current location of the Mr 17 and the sponding entry is greater than a predetennined threshold bus stop is greater than a threshold value, then the MT 17 is value, then theMT 17 is off schedule. Othetwise, the Mf 17 is on schedule. Furthermore, regardless of which emboditoo far from the bus stop for notification to be sent to the user. Therefore, a notification message is not generated. However, 60 mentis used to detemllne how far the MT 17 is off schedule, if the difference between the location values of the current the MT manager 29 can indicate how far the MT 17 is off location of the MT 17 and the bus stop is less than the threshschedule via the status message using either distance values, old value, then a notification message is transmitted to the time values, or any other type of values known in the art for user via communications devices 72 and 73, unless a similar indicating the position of the MT 17. notification message (i.e., a message indicating that the MI 65 It should be noted that the preferred embodiment has been 17 is off schedule by the same amount) associated with the described hereinabove assuming that the sensor 18 is capable bus stop has previously been sent to the user. of determining the MT's location based on signals received
Exhibit 8 Page 185
US 7,504,966 B2
27
28
from satellites 23. However, this is not a necessary feature, authentication information or indicia to be described later in this document, aPCDtravel data table 68ihavinginformation and any type of sensor 18 that may be used for determining the pertaining to travel of a tracked PCD 75, a traffic flow preMI's position along the route of travel is sufficient. For dicament data table 68}, a package data table 68k, a failure example, the sensor 18may be designed as an odometer that states data table 681, a tasks data table 68m, sub-tables of the indicates how far the MI 17 travels. Therefore, the predeterforegoing, etc. The tables 68 include related fields for linking mined points along the route of travel used to determine whether the MT 17 is on or off schedule can be defined in the and relating various elements in the various tables 68. Furthermore, in this embodiment, MTCUs are related to schedules 39a and 39b relative to their distance from the identification values in MI data table 68a, and these values starting point of the route. In other words, the location values stored in the schedules 39a and 39b correspond to distance 10 are correlated with travel data in MT travel data table 68e. Travel data can include information such as, but not limited values indicating how far the predetermined points are from to, the MTCU's coordinate values (i.e., theMTCU's 151ocathe starting point of the route. Therefore, the MT manager 29 tion relative to a predetermined reference point), information can determine how far the MT 29 is from any of the prederegarding delivery status of items to be delivered, and!or the termined points by determining how far the MT 17 has traveled from the starting point of the route. 15 times that the MTCU 15 reached particular locations or stops. The database 94 is configured to contain all of the desirable information to monitor the status of each MTCU 15 associ~ K. User Notification Preferences and Reports BS manager 41 is designed to receive the travel data transated with the notification system 10. mitted from :MT manager 29 and to monitor the travel of the Referring to FIG. 5B, data manager 67 is configured to MT attached to the MTCU 15 by monitoring the travel of the 20 include a monitoring mechanism 69. The functionality of MTCU 15. In this regard, BS manager 41 is designed to monitoring mechanism 69 is depicted in FIG. 5C. As shown include a data manager 67 configured to receive the travel by blocks 88a-88JofFIG. 5C, monitoring mechanism 69 is data via signal 66 from communications device 52, as configured to receive travel data from MTCU 15 and to comdepicted by FIG. SA. Data manager 67 is designed to store the pare the travel data with predefined preference data stored in travel dala for each MTCU 15 being monitored in a database 2s the database 94, particularly the user data table 68b. Preference data, as med herein, is data that defines the preferred 94, which is preferably a relational database having a munber of tables 68, but other databases are possible, for example, parameters indicating when to notify a user of the impending fiat-file database, inverted-Jist database, one made up of arrival of the MTCU 15 at a particular location. 1t can be lookup tables, etc. system defined or user defined. For example, preference data As is well known in the art, a relational database is a 30 can be coordinates of a desired location whereby a notificadatabase or database management system that stores infertion message is sent to a user when the coordinates of the mation in tables--rows and columns of data-and conducts MTCU 15 pass the coordinates of the desired location. In this context, the desired location defined by the preference data searches by using data in specified columns of one table to can, for example, represent a location that is a predetermined find additional data in another table. In a relational database, the rows of a table represent records (collections ofinforma- 35 distance from the user house, place of delivery or pickup, or tion about separate items) and the columns represent fields other particular location. Therefore, when the user receives the notification message, the user is aware of the approximate (particular attributes of a record). In conducting searches, a location uf the :MTCU 15 or of the distance of the MTCU 15 relational database matches information from a field in one table with infonnation in a corresponding field of another from a predetermined point (i.e., of the proximity of the table to produce a thlrd table that combines requested data 40 MTCU 15 from a predetermined point or location). Consea from both tables. For example, if one table contains the fields quently, the user can prepare for the arrival of the MTCU 15, MOBILE-THING-ID, PACK.AGE-ID, and LOAD-DATE, since the user knows that arrival oftheMTCU 15 is inuninent. and another contains the fields STOP-TI:Nffi, MOBILEAs an. alternative embodiment, the preference data can THING-ID, and STOP-LOCATION, a relatioillll database define a certain time before the MTCU 15 reaches a destinacan match the MOBILE-THING-ID fields in the two tables to 45 tion or other particular location (i.e., a proximity of the find such information as the possible pickup stop locations for MTCU 15 from the predetennined point). In this regard, the packages transported by the MT or the delivery times (stop monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to determine the locatimes) for all packages loaded on the MT within the last day. tion of the MTCU 15 from the travel data stored in MT travel In other words, a relational database uses matching values in data table 68e of database 94. The monitoring mechanism 69 two tables to relate information in one to information in the 50 is then designed to calculate the time it will take for the other. MTCU 15 to reach the location specified by the preference ..1\.Jthough not limited to tills configuration, in one embodidata based on the location of the MTCU 15 and the location of ment, among others, the database 94 includes, among other the desired destination. In calculating the travel time, the things and in general, an MT data table 68a having infonnamonitoring mechanism 69 can be configured to make tion pertaining to the MI, such as an ID, type (package, 55 assumptionsaboutthetimenecessarytotraveltothespecified mobile vehicle type, etc.), model, whether the thing has air location. For example, if the route ofthe MTCU 15 is through conditioning, etc.; a user data table 68b having infonnation congested areas, the monitoring mechanism 69 can assume a regarding user preferences; a communication method data certain delay time for traveling certain distances, and if the table 68c having informatipn pertaining to various commuroute of the MTCU 15 is through less congested areas, the nications methods that can be utilized for contacting a user 60 monitoring mechanism 69 can assume another delay time that (which can be linked to the user preferences); a stop location is less than the delay time assumed for the congested areas. data table 68dhaving information pertaining to stop locations Alternatively, the monitoring mechanism 69 can use an averof Mrs; anMT (MT) travel data table 68e having information age of the times it has previously taken for MTs 17 to travel concerning travel status ofMTs, an advertisement data table over the same route during other deliveries. Therefore, by 68fhaving advertisements that can be communicated to a 65 comparing the travel data transmitted from MTCU 15 with PCD 75; a PCD data table 68g having information pertalning preference data, the monitoring mechanism 69 can determine to the devices 75; an authentication data table 68h having when to send a notification message to a user.
Exhibit B Page 186
US 7,504,966 B2
29
As depicted by blocks 88a, 88b, 88g, and 88h of FIG. SC, the preference data can be stored in user data table 68b of the database 94 (FIG. 58). As stated hereinbefore, the MT tnJVel data table 68e of the database 94 is preferably configured to
30
The contact information (and preference data, which will be discussed in further detail hereinafter) can be manually entered or downloaded into the user data table 68b in order to activate a user for the notification system 10. In this regard, a system operator can receive the contact infonnation (and preference data) via a telephone call or e~mail, for example, and manually enter the infonnation into the noti:fuation sys~ tern 10.
10
store the travel data associated with each MTCU 15 in a respective entry uniquely identified with the associated MTCU 15. Accordingly, each data entry can also include the
preference data associated with each MTCU 15 that corre~ sponds with the entry, or the preference data can be stored in
However, in the preferred embodiment, the contact infor~ mation is automatically entered into the user data table 68b via a message manager 82, which is depicted by FIG. 5B. The Once the monitoring mechanism 69 determines that a noti~ functionality of the message manager 82 is shown in FIG. 5D. fication message should be sent to a user, the data manager 67 The message manager 82 is configured to receive, via com~ is designed to communicate a message to a user at a remote 15 munications device 72 (FIG.l), an activation request from a location via PSTN network 55 and communications devices user at PCD 75, as shown by blocks 90a, 90b, 90/ofFIG. SD. 72 and 73 (FIG.1).1n this regard, communications devices 72 In this regard, the request can be transmitted to PCD 75, via and 73 are preferably PSTN modems capable of comrnurri~ any suitable technique known in the art, and the BSCU 38 can eating with PS1N network 55. Data manager 67 is designed be configured to include a plurality of communications to transmit the message as signal70 to user communications device 72, which communicates the message with PTSN 20 devices 72, as depicted by FIG. SA network 55 via signal 74. PTSN network 55 then communiEach of these communications devices 72 can be con:fig~ cates the message to communications device 73, which is uredtosimultaneouslycommunicatewitharespectiveuserof preferably configured to communicate the message to a PCD the notification system 10. The information received by the 75. PCD 75 is configured to notify the user of the impending communications devices 72 can be transmitted to message 25 arrival of the MTCU 15. As mentioned, PCD 75 can be a manager82 (FIG, 5B)via any suitabletechnlque, such as time computer capable of displaying the notification through division multiplexing, for example. Each user communica~ e~mail or some other communications software. Alterna~ tions device 72 can also be designed to communicate with tive1y, PCD 75 can be a telephone, a pager or any other device different communications media. For example, one user cornu capable of notifying a user. roWJ.ications device 72 can be designed as a modem to com~ 30 1. User Activation rnunicate with a modem associated with a user. This user In order for data manager 67 to transmit a notification PCD communications device 72 can be designed to send data con~ 75, data manager 67 should be aware ofcertain contact infer~ figured to prompt the user to return data pertaining to contact marion enabling data manager 67 to contact the PCD 75. In information. An example of such a prompt, could be a tern~ this regard, data manager 67 is configured to include a user 35 plate or web page where the PCD 75 (i.e., a computer in this case) displays the template, andtheusercanfill infields of the data table 68b (FIG. 5) containing contact information pertaiillng to each user that is to receive a notification message template with the appropriate contact information. l>Jtema~ from the data manager 67. In the preferred embodiment, the tively, another one of the user communications devices 72 can user table 68b is capable of uniquely identifying each user of be designed to receive a telephone call from a user ood to the notification system 10, and has entries that specifY contact 40 prompt the user to enter data through touch-tone signaling. information associated with each user, Each entry preferably Other user communications devices 72 can be designed to includes a user identification number unique to each user that communicate with other types of communications media identifies the information in the entry as relating to a particu~ known in the art Jar user. Once the message manager 82 (FIG. 5B) receives the Each entry preferably includes a value specifYing the 45 request from the user, the message manager 82 is designed to medium through which the user has specified to be contacted, determine that the request is a request for activation (i.e., a For example, the value can indicate that the user is to be request for the user to be entered into the notHication system contacted through e~mail, in which case the entry should also 1 0). In response, the message manager 82 transmits data to include the user e~mail address./Utematively, the value can the user, via user communications device 72, in order to indicate that the user is to be contacted through a telephone so prompttheuserto transmitthenecessarycontactinforrnation, call or a page. In these situations, the entry should also include as shown by block 90g ofFIG. 5D. In this regard, the message the user telephone number or pager number. The value can manager 82 is configured to determine the type of medium also indicate multiple methods of notification, For example, used bytheusertocommunicatetherequestforactivationand the value can indicate that the user is to be first contacted via to transmit a prompt to the user that is compatible with this telephone. If there is no answer when the data manager 67 ss medium. For example, when the user is communicating via a attempts to deliver a notification message, then the data man~ modem, the message manager 82 is configured to transmit ager 67 can be configured to anempt notification via paging. signals compatible with the user modem in order to prompt If paging fails, then the data manager 67 can be configured to the user to enter the appropriate contact inibrmation, This attempt notification through e~mail or other computer ori~ data could be in the form of a web page transmitted through ented messaging system. Accordingly, the order of notifica 60 the Intemet, or the prompt could simply be messages trans~ tion media should be indicated by the data in the user data mitted through e~mail or some other data communications table 68b, and the contact information necessary for each system. method selected (e.g., the telephone number, pager number, When the user is communicating via a PCD 75 in the form and e-mail address of the user) should also be included in the of a telephone, the message manager 82 can be designed to entry. It should be noted that various other communications 65 transmit recorded messages to the user. The user can then media and combinations of communications media can be select or enter data by transmitting touch~ tone signals in employed. response to the prompting messages, as is commonly known
separate entries which are correlated with corresponding MTCU entries.
Exhibit B Page 187
US 7,504,966 B2
31
in the art. TI1e message manager 82 may be configured to communicate with the user in other formats and media known in the art. Once the message manager 82 receives the contact infer~ mation from the user, the message manager 82 is designed to
32
associated with the bus number and stop number entered by the user in order to register the user with the notification system 10. As depicted by block 90i ofFlG. 50, the message manager 82 is preferably designed to automatically transmit to monim
store the contact information as an entry in the user data table
taring mechanism 69 the preferences selected by the user that
68b, as depicted by block 90h of FIG. 5D. When the monipertain to when the user is to be notified. The monitoring taring mechanism 69 determines that a user should be notified mechanism 69 is designed to store this preference infmma. of an impending arrival of an MTCU 15, the monitoring tion in the database 94 and designed to relate it to the selected mechanism 69 is designed to send a notification command to 10 MTCU 15. Once a user becomes activated with the notification system message manager 82. The notification command may include travel data to be sent to the user, such as data indicating that a 10, theusermaymake changes to the preferences specified by particular MT is a certain proximity from the destination the user, as shown by blocks 90j90m of FIG. 5D. Themes defined by the preference data. In response, the message sage manager 82 is configured to receive the request for manager 82 is designed to retrieve the contact information 15 changes from the user. The message manager 82 can be con figured to request the 11ser to resubmit all contact infonnstion associated with the user from the user data table 68b and to and preference data, as updated, or can be configured to determine how to contact the user based on the retrieved contact information, as depicted by blocks 90c and 90d of request the user to only submit desired changes to the contact infOrmation or preference data. After receiving the new data, FIG. 5D. The message manager 82 is then designed to transmit a 20 the message manager 82 is configured to update the contact information in user data table 68b and to send a request to message compatible with the medium previously selected by the user for notification, as depicted by block 90e of FIG. 5D. monitoring mechanism 69 to update the preference data relat. The message can include any travel data sent to the message ing to the monitoring of travel data. In response) monitoring mechrulism 69 is designed to update the preference data in manager 82 from the monitoring mechanism 69. For example, when the contact information indicates that a tele 25 database 94, as shown by blocks 88g and 88h of FIG. 5C. phone call is the preferred medium for notification, the roes~ It should be further noted that as descnOed hereinabove, sage manager 82 can send a recorded telephone message to the preference data and travel data can be automatically received and stored in the database 94 and selected 11.Ts 17 the telephone number that is inclicated by the contact infor~ mation retrieved from the user data table 68b. 1f the monitor~ can be automatically monitored by the notification system 1 0. ing mechanism 69 included travel data indicating the time of 30 2. Requests for Travel Data In addition to providing the user with automatic advance arrival in the command to message manager82) then message manager82canbeconfigUredtoinc1udeamessageindicating notification of an impending arrival of an MTCU 15, the notification system 10 can also be used to provide the user the expected time of arrival at a particular location ..A..lterna~ tively, the same information can be sent via e-mail, facsimile, with travel data on demand, as depicted by blocks 90n~90p, page or other type of communications medium to the user, 35 90d and 90e of FIG. 5D. In this regard, the user communica~ depending on the preferences selected by the user during tions device 72 is designed to receive a request for travel data activation. from a user. For example, the user may call the communicaDuring activation, the message manager 82 can be further tions device 72 on a telephone and through touch-tone sig~ configured to prompt for and receive preference data (i.e., naling select, among other options, an option to discover the data pertaining to when the user is to be notified) from the 40 distance and/or time a particular MTCU 15 is from the des~ user, as shown by block 90g of FIG. 5D. ln this regard, the tination specified by the user preference data or specified by message manager 82 can be designed to prompt the user to the user during the request for travel data. The user commu~ return information indicating which MfCU 15 is to be moninications device 72 is designed to transmit the user selections tored on behalf of the user and when the notification is to be to message manager 82. Based on the selections, !he message sent to the user. For example, the user can be prompted to 45 manager82 is designed to determine thattheusermessageis select an MTL'U 15, a destination (or other particular loca~ a request for travel data. In response, the message manager82 sends a request to monitoring mechanism 69 to retrieve the tion), and a notification preference to indicate a time or dis requested database 94. tance that the rvrrcu 15 should be from the selected destinaThe monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to receive the tion or other particular location when a notification is to be sent to the user. ln response, the user specifies, through any 50 request for travel data from message manager 82 and to known suitable communications technique, which MTCU 15 interpret the request in order to determine which travel infor~ the user wishes the notification system 10 to monitor and how mation from the MT travel data table 68e of the database 94 is the user wishes to be notified of an impending arrival of the desired by the user, as depicted by blocks 88i and 88j of FIG. 5C. The monitoring mechanism 69 is then designed to selected MTCU 15 at the selected destination. lf the user knows the coordinate values of the destination, the user can 55 retrieve from the database 94 the desired travel data and to simply transmit the coordlnate values to the data manager 67. transmit the retrieved travel data to message manager 82, as lfthe user selects the destination without supplying the coor~ shown by blocks 88k and 88! of FIG. 5C. dinates of the destination (e.g., the user selects a destination In the case where the user desires to know the time and/or distance the selected MTCU 15 is from the selected location, from a list of locations) then the data manager 67 is preferably designed to determine the coordinate values transparently. 60 the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to retrieve from Mrtravel data table 68e of database 94 the coordinates ofthe In some instances, the user may be aware of the vehicle number and stop number used by the notification system 10 to destination specified by the user (if not provided in the request identify a particular MTCU 15 and destination. For example, for travel data) and the current coordinates ofthe MTCU 15 of many buses are associated with a commonly known bus numinterest to the user. Prior tO retrieving this data, the monitoring her, and the stops along the bus' route are associated with 65 mechanism 69 can be configured to update the travel data for theMTCU15bytransmittinganupdaterequesttotheMTCU commonly known bus stop numbers. The data manager 67 can be configured to recognize the MTCU 15 and destination 15 via MT communications device 52. Similar to the user
Exhibit B Page 188
US 7,504,966 B2
33
commtmications devices 72, a plurality of MT communications devices 52 may be located at the BSCU 38 in order for multiple MTs 17 to simultaneously communicate with the monitoring mechanism 69, as depicted by FIG. 5B. The MT
34
routed to lJser) associated with the user for sending the mapping data. The message manager 82 is then designed to transmit the mapping data to the retrieved address, which preferably identifies a computer associated with the user. When the
communications devices 52 are configured to communicate
PCD 75 (i.e., a computer in this case) receives the mapping
with the monitoring mechanism 69 through any suitable techdata, the user computer is configured to render a graphical nique, such as time division multiplexing, for example. display depicting a map that shows the MT's location relative After receiving the update request via communications to the destination on the map. devices 52 and44, tl1e 1fT manager29 is designed to transmit If desired, the monitoring mechanism 69 can be configured the current values of the MT travel data to the monitoring 10 to transmit the coordinate values of the MTCU 15 to the manager 69. By updating the 1fT travel data before respondmapping system 86 each time the coordinate values are ing to the user request for travel data, the monitoring mechaupdated. The user request for travel data can request this nism 69 can ensure the accuracy of the response transmitted feature or the user can indicate this desire in the preference data submitted during activation. Accordingly, for each to the user. After retrieving the coordinate values from the database 94, 15 update, the mapping system 86 is designed to transmit the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to calculate the updated mapping data to the user computer 75 via message distance that the MTCU 15 is from the selected destination manager 82, as previously described. As a result, the position based on the coordinate- values of the MTCU 15 and the of the WCU 15 is updated, and the user can monitor the progress-of the MTCU 15 on the display map rendered by the coordinate values of the destination. If the preference data and/or request for travel data indicates that the user is to be 20 computer 75. Although the preferred embodiment illustrates the requests notified when the MTCU 15 is a certain time from the selected destination, the monitoring mechanism 69 is then designed to for travel data by detennining the distance the WCU 15 is detenninethe estimated time of arrival of the WCU 15 at the from a particular location or by determining the time the destination based on this distance ..'\s described previously, WCU 15 is from the particular location, other information the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to either assume 25 can be used to indicate the proximity of the lviTCU 15 from that certain distances will take a certain amount of time to the particular location, For example, the message transmitted travel based on the type of traffic conditions usually encoun~ to the user in response to a request for travel data can indicate tered on the route or to calculate an average time previously that the MTCU15is currently at another particular location or required for MTs 17 of the system to travel the route. To landmark, preferably known to the user, Any other informa~ increase the accuracy of the calculations, the route should be 30 tion indicating the proximity of the MTCU 15 from a particudivided into sections where the time required to travel each Jar location can be used. 3, Establishing User Preferences section is independently calculated. Furthennore, time delays associated with scheduled stops or deliveries can be factored Initially, a user at remote location establishes communica~ intothecalculationsbyassumingadelaytimeforeachstopor tion with the message manager 82 via communications delivery depending on the type of stop or delivery expected, 35 devices 72 and 73. As used herein, the term "remote location" Aftercalculatingthedistanceand,ifrequested, the time the shall refer to any location off the site of the BSCU 38. The MTCU 15 is from the destination, the monitoring mechanism user can establish communication via a telephone, an e-mail message, the Internet, or any other suitable communication 69 is configured to transmit the calculated values to themes~ sage manager 82. In response, the message manager 82 is medium. The message manager 82 preferably transmits a list designed to transmit the calculated infonnation to the user via 40 of options to the user, such as whether the user would like to user communications device 72. Since the user already has an activate a monitoring of a particular MT, to retrieve travel data for a particular MT or to modify preferences previously established communications connection with user commuill cations device 72 when requesting travel data, there is no need selected by the user in an earlier communication session with for the message manager 82 to consult the contact informathe message manager 82. In response, the user selects the tion in the user data table 68b. The message manager 82 can 45 activation option. simply transmit the data over the same connection. However, The message manager 82 then prompts the user to select if desired, the message manager 82 may consult the contact certain preferences, For example, the message manager 82 information in the user data table 68b to determine the user can request the user to identify a particular MTCU 15 that the preferences in notification and notify the user of the distance user wishes thenotificationsystem 10 to track and a particular and/or time accordingly. so destination for the selected MTCU 15. If the user knows the The monitoring mechanism 69 can also be configured to identification number of the MTCU 15 or MT stop number used by the notification system 10 to identify the particular transmit a command to a mapping system 86 (FIG, 5B) to transmit mapping data to the message manager 82, if the user WCU 15 and/or destination, the user can simply transmit a request for travel data or user preference data in database 94 message including this information. As an example, the bus includes a request for a mapping. The mapping system 86 55 numbers and/or bus stops of commercial and state operated may be any system known in the art for producing and sup buses are usually available to the public. Therefore, the user plying a user with mapping data for rendering a display of a may be aware of the bus number and/or stop number of a map. The command to the mapping system 86 preferably particular bus that the user wishes to ride, and the user can simply transmit the bus number and/or stop number to the includes the coordinate values ofthc MTCU 15 and the des~ tination, In response, the mapping system 86 transmits to 60 message manager 82. Also, the user should be able to specify message manager 82 mapping data sufficient for forming a other identifYing information such as the day or days of display map with the locations of the MTCU 15 and the desired travel and the time of day of desired travel. In the embodiment where the user is expecting to receive a destination graphically displayed by the display map. The message manager 82 is designed to retrieve the contact infor~ package from a particular delivery vehicle, the user may be mation for the user requesting the travel data and is further 65 aware of the package number or delivery number used by the configured to determine an address (e.g,, an IP address or notification system 10. Therefore, by specifying the package other type of address indicating how the mapping data is to be number and the address that the vehicle is to deliver the
Exhibit B
Page 189
US 7,504,966 B2
35
package, the particular MTCU 15 of the vehicle that is to
deliver the package can be located by the notification system
36
methods known in the art for categorizing the entries and
correlating the entries with a particular MT or with the travel
the communication between the message manager 82 and the user can be terminated. The BSmanager 41 should now have mation to the user that can be used to help the user identify a sufficient infonnation to monitor the selected MTCU 15. If partiCular MTCU 15. For example, the message manager 82 the user wishes to change the contact information and/or the can transmit to the user a list ofbuses ora list ofMf stops to 10 travel data preferences, the user can reestablish commun:icathe user. The user can use this information to select a particution with the message manager 82. The message manager 82 lar MTCU 15 that is suitable to the user. preferably recognizes the user requests as an update rather Also, the message manager 82 can send map data from than an activation and prompts the user to transmit the new mapping system 86 to the user, The user can then -view the information. In this regard, the message manager 82 can map and select points on the map wheretheuserwould like to 15 prompt the user for all of the desired contact infonnation know when the MTCU 15 reaches the selected point. The and/or preference data, similar to the activation session, and points avallable for selection can he predetermined, ~;uch as simply replace the previously stored contact information and/ or preference data, orthemessagemanager82 canpromptthe scheduled bus stops or other types of vehicle stops, or the user can be allowed to freely select any point on the map. In either user for only the infonnation to he updated and then merely case, the mapping logic preferably transmits the coordinates 20 update the previously stored information. of the selected points to the message manager 82, which can It should be noted that the information transferred between use this infonnation to not only identifY the selected destinathe user and the message manager 82 can he interfaced with tion, but to also choose an appropriate MTCU 15. the message manager 82 through a human operator during the TI1e message manager 82 also prompts the user to enter activation session or update session described hereinabove contact information such as how the user would like to be 25 and during other sessions, which will be described further hereinbelow. The human operator can prompt the user for notified of an impending arrival of the selected MTCU 15 at certain information through a telephone call or other suitable the selected destination. In response, the user selects a notimedium of communication and can enter the response of the ficationmedium or combinations of media to be used to notify the user and supplies the necessary infonnation to enable user into the message manager 82. communication of the notification. For example, if the user 30 4. Monitoring the MT selects a telephone as a notification medium, then the user The monitoring mechanism 69 of FIGS. 5B and SC, upon provides a telephone number. In addition, ifthe user selects a receiving travel data fromMTCU 15, stores the travel data (in computer as the notification medium, then the user provides a the preferred embodiment, coordinate values) relating to the suitableaddress for the computer, such as an e-mail address or MTCU 15, in MT travel data table 68e of database 94 that is 1P address. If the user selects a pager as the notification 35 configured to contain travel data and is associated with the medium, then the user provides a pager number. It should be MTCU 15.A.fteraccessinganentryforstoringtravel data, the apparent to one skilled in the art when reading this disclosure monitoring mechanism 69 compares the current travel data that other types of notification media are possible. After (either received from the MTCU 15 or selected from a prereceiving the desired contact information from the user, the determined or assumed set of travel data, as described heremessage manager 82 stores the contact information in the 40 inabove) with the user preferences stored in user data table user data table 68b 68b in order to determine whether a notification should he The message managei 82 also prompts the user to transmit sent to the user. Alternatively, the monitoring mechanism 69 travel data preferences, which is information pertaining to can be configured to periodically poll each entry in the MT when the user would like to be notified. For example, the user data table 68a and to compare the travel data corresponding to can select to be notified a certain time before the selected 45 each entry with the corresponding preference data in user data MTCU 15 is to arrive at the selected destination. Also, the table 68b to determine which users should receive a notificauser can choose to be notified when the selected MTCU 15 is tion. within a certain distance of the destination, and the user can In analyzing each entry, the monitoring mechanism 69 choose to he notified when the selected MTCU 15 is a certain preferably s-ubtracts the current coordinate values in the number of deliveries or stops away from the destination. so accessed entry of the MTCU 15 with the coordinate values Since the monitoring mechanism 69 should have access to previously stored in travel data 68e that indicate the destination location selected by the user. If the resulting value is less the travel data preferences in order to determine when a notification is appropriate, the message manager 82 preferthan a predetermined value, then the monitoring mechanism ably transmits the travel data preferences to the monitoring 69 sends a notification command to message manager 82 mechanism 69 along with a unique identification number that 55 instructing the message-manager 82 to notify the user of the impending arrival ofthe MTCU 15. This predetermined value identifies the user and a unique identification number identifying the selected MTCU 15. The unique identification numcorresponds to the distance that the MTCU 15 should he from her identifying the selectedMfCU 15 can be the MT number the destination before a notification is sent to the user. Pref~ entered by the user provided that the number entered by the erably, this predetermined value is calc-ulated from or is user identifies the MTCU 15 to be monitored. In tum, the 60 included in the preference data supplied by the user during monitoring mechanism 69 stores this in database 94. Entries activation or during an update to the activation. associated with a particular MTCU 15 can he related together The monitoring mechanism 69 can also send the notification command to the message manager 82 based on the estiin the database 94. For example, each entry associated with a mated time the MTCU 15 is from the destination. After calparticular MTCU 15 can he stored, and each of the entries can have a pointer pointing to another one of the entries associ- 65 culating the value indicating the distance of the MTCU 15 ated with the particular MTCU 15. Therefore, entries associfrom the destination, the monitoring mechanism 69 can estiated with a particular MTCU 15 can be easily located. Other mate how long it will take for the MfCU 15 to reach the
Exhibit B Page 190
10. In this regard, a database should be defmed by the operators of the notification system 10 that relates package numhers to MTCU 15 nurn hers. Alternatively, if the user is unable to identify a particular MT or MICU 15, the message manager 82 can send infor-
data of a particular Mf are also possible. Once the message manager 82 has received the desired contact information and travel data preferences from the user,
US 7,504,966 B2
37
destination by assuming that the MTCU 15 can travel certain
38
travel data stored in the data base 94. In this regard, the user distances in a certain amount oftime. In order to increase the establishes communication with the message manager 82 (FIG. 5B) via communications devices 72 and 73. The accuracy of the notification system 10, the monitoring mechanism 69 can vary the time for the distances according to the medium used for communication can be any suitable medium known in the art (e.g., telephone, e-mail, Internet, cellular type of traffic that is typically encountered at the MT's locaphone, etc.). The preferred will be discussed hereinafter with tion and route of travel. If traffic conditions are usually conthe user establishing communication via telephone, although gested along the MTCU's route, then the monitoring mechaother media of communication are also suitable. nism 69 can assume higher rates of time. Furthermore, if the travel data indicates that the MTCU 15 has a number ofMT After the telephone connection is established, the message stops prior to reaching the destination, the monitoring mecha- 10 manager 82 prompts the user with a series of recorded questions or options in order to determine the user request. The nism 69 can factor in a delay time for each stop depending on the type of the stop. user responds to these prompts through touch-tone signaling Once the monitoring mechanism 69 determines the which is well known in current telephony communications MTCU's expected time of arrival at the destination, the monisystems. Initially, the message manager 82 prompts the user toring mechanism 69 can detennine whether the user should 15 to indicate whether the call is an activation, an update of an activation, or a request for travel data. The user selects the be notified based on this estimated time. If the estimated time appropriate touch-tone number to indicate that the user is is less than a predetennined value indicating the desired estimated time of arrival chosen by the user, then the monitoring requesting travel data. mechanism 69 sends the notification command to the mesThe message manager 82 receives and interprets the touchsage manager 82. 20 tone signal to determine that the user is requesting travel data. The message manager 82, in resporu;e to the notification In response, the message manager 82 prompts the user to transmit an identification number ofthe MTCU 15 of-concern command from the monitoring mechanism 69, retrieves the for the user. This prompt can include information to aide the contact infonnation from user data table 68b indicating how the user desires to be notified. Utilizing the contact informauser in selecting an MICU 15. The user responds by transtio~ the message manager 82 then sends a message to the user 25 mitring a series of touch-tone signals that indicate the identification number or other unique data of the particular MfCU at remote location. The monitofing mechanism 69 preferably 15 of concern for the user. The message manager 82 receives includes certain travel data in the notification command, such and interprets the touch-tone signals and determines which as the MTCU's location. Consequently, the message manager MTCU 15 is selected by the user based on the received 82 is able to include this travel data with the message sent to the user. For example, the message may indicate that the 30 touch-tone signals. The message manager 82 can then, if desired, prompt the MTCU 15 (and, therefore, that the MT attached to the MTCU user to indicate which travel data the user desires to know. For 15) is a certain amount of time or distance from the destinaexample, it is likely that the user may want to know how far tion or the message may indicate the MTCU's specific locathe MTCU 15 is from the destination or how long it should tion, perhaps with reference to street names and/or street 35 take the MTCU 15 to arrive at the destination. However, the blocks. user may want to know other information, such as, but not If the contact information indicates that the user wishes to limited to, how many MT stops the MICU 15 encounters en have map data sent to a computer at the remote location, the route or the type ofMT that is en route, etc. The user responds message manager 82 sends a request for map data to moniwith touch-tone signals, as appropriate, to indicate what toring mechanism 69. In response, the monitoring mechanism 69 sends to the mapping system 86 the necessary data 40 information the user :is requesting. The message manager 82 then transmits a request for data (e.g., the coordinates of the l\ITCU 15 and the destination) for to the monitoring mechanism 69. The request for data the mapping system 86 to traru;mit the appropriate mapping includes the unique identification number used to identify the data. The mapping system 86 transmits the mapping data to MTCU 15, as well as any other information needed by the message manager 82 which again utilizes the contact information retrieved from user data base 78 to communicate the 45 monitoring mechanism 69 to provide the desired infofmation. For example, the message manager 82 may also transmit mapping data to the appropriate PCD 75 at remote location. information indicating that the user wishes to discover inforThe PCD 75 then displays the mapping data in graphical form mation pertaining to the type of MI that is en route. The so that the user can see the MT' s location relative to the monitoringmechanism69, in tum, retrieves the desired travel destination within the map graphically displayed by the PCD 75. so data from the database 94. The notification message sent to the user indicates the After retrieving the desired travel data, the monitoring impending arrival of the MTCU 15 at the destination previ~ mechanism 69 transmits the retrieved data to the message ously selected by the user. Accordingly, the user can prepare manager 82, which communicates the data information to the for the arrival of the MTCU 15 knowing approximately how user in a message transmitted to the user. The message can long it should take for the :MTCU 15 to arrive at the destina- 55 include the travel data retrieved by the monitoring mechanism 69 or can be formed to indicate the infurmation contion. Note that U.S. Pat. No. 6,317,060, which is incorporated tained by the travel data. For example, when communication is over a telephone connection, a recorded message can be herein by reference, describes a commuillcation handler that can be implemented in or in cotmection with the manager 41 formed by the message manager 82 indicating the distance for enabling communication of a large number of concurrent 60 the MTCU 15 is from the destination based on the travel data or substantially concurrent notification communications (persent to the message manager 82. When conununication is via haps due to a large number of vehicles and/or users). modem signals, travel data can be transmitted to the user by 5. Requesting Travel Data the message device 82. In either case, the contents of the During the monitoring process described hereinabove, the message is based on the travel data retrieved by the monitoruser can discover the status of the MTCU 15 or of the MT 65 ingmechanism 69. Sinceaconununications line between the attached to the MTCU 15, on demand, by contacting the BS user and message manager 82 is already established in order manager 41 and requesting information pertaining to the for the user to make the request for travel data, the message Exhibit B Page 191
US 7,504,966 B2
39
40
manager 82 preferably transmits the data to the user over the The architecture ofone such embodiment, among others, is established communication connection. When the user shown in FIG. 6 and is generally denoted by reference desires to receive map data (indicated by the selection of an numeral 100. Although not limited to this particular impleoption during the request tOr travel data or by the user prefmentation, this response system 100 is implemented in the erences stored in the database 94), the monitoring mechanism 5 notification system 10 ofFIG. 1. 69 transmits a map generation command and travel data of the 1. Response System Feedback Analyzer selected MTCU 15 to mapping system 86. Mapping system a. First Embodiment 86 then transmits graphlcal data to message manager 82. Message manager 82 communicates the graphical data to The response system 100, particularly the response system PCD 75which is capable of generating a map display based 10 feedback analyzer lOOa, can be configured to implement the on the graphical data. In order to communicate this data, the following methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in message manager 82 retrieves the user contact infonnation FIG. 7A: causing initiation of or monitoring a notification from the user data table 68b. The contact information indicommunication to a PCD 75 associated with a party, as shown cates the address (and/or other pertinent information) of the PCD 75 so that the message manager 82 knows where to 15 in block 101 of FIG. 7A; and during the notification commutransmit the graphical data. By viewing the map display gen~ nication, receiving a response from the party via the party's PCD 75, indicating that the party associated with thePCD 75 erated by the PCD 75, the user can determine the location and hasreceivednotice, as indicated by block 102 in FIG. 7A. The estimated time of arrival of the MTCU 15. The map display response can be produced by any system or method that preferably shows the intended route oftravel by the MTCU 15 20 verifies that any party or one or more specific parties received and any scheduled MT stops along the route. the notification communication. Some such systems and/or Since the notification system 10 stores certain travel infor~ methods can accomplish this by verifying or detecting the mation in order to monitor the travel of an MTCU 15 for physical presence of such party(ies) at the_PCD 75. Some providing an advance notification of an impending arrival of such systems and! or methods can accomplish this by having an MTCU 15, the notification system 10 can also provide an easy and low cost way for a user to access information per- 25 the notification~receiving party exercise a physical action that can be converted to an electronic signal and communicated taining to the MTCU 15, on demand. Accordingly, the user back to the notification system 10. does not have to \Vait for preselected preferences to be satisAlthough not necessary for implementation, the foregoing fied before learning of the MICU's (and, therefore, the methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred MT's) location and/or estimated time of arrival. The user can monitor the travel of the MTCU 15 at any time by submitting 30 embodiment is implemented, by software associated with the message manager 82 (FIG. 5B), the monitoring mechanism a request for travel data and can, therefore, know the location 69 (FJG. SB)andlorthedatamanager 67 (FIG. SA) associated and status of the MTCU 15 before receiving an advance with theBSmanager41 (FIGS.l and3). See response system notification signal that is based on comparisons between the feedback analyzer in FIGS. 1 and 3. The blocks of FIG. 7A MTCU's travel data and the user preselected preferences. As a result, the user can better prepare for an arrival of any 35 essentially represent the high level architecture of such sOft~ ware, i.e., the response system feedback analyzer in FIGS. 1 particular MTCU 15 or MT attached to the MTCU 15 as so~ and 3. Note, however, that it is possible to have special purciated with the notification system 10. pose digital or analog hardware designed to implement the It should be apparent to one skilled in the art that at least a same or similar methodology, and such hardware could be portion of the functionality of the data manager 67 can be implemented by the MT manager 29, if desired. In this regard, 40 associated with the BSCU 40. In this embodlment, the initiating step 101 is performed by preference data and/or travel data for the MTCU 15 can be the transmitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), stored in the computer system 31a coupled to the MTCU 15. under the control of the response system feedback analyzer Accordingly, it is possible for the Mf manager 29 to deterlOOa associated with the BS manager 41. The notification mine when lo transmit a notification to the user and to trans~ mit a notification to the user via communication device 52 and 45 communication passes through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 (FIG. 1) associated with the PCD 75. 72. However, such an implementation can increase the comD The response from the notification-receiving party is first plexity and cost of the notification system 10 and is therefore generally not desirable. produced by a party associated with the PCD 75. The response is electronically recognized by a response system L. Alternative Embodiment for Communications so feedback mechanism lOOb of the PCD 75. The response U.S. Pat. No. 5,732,074, which is incorporated herein by system feedback mechanism 1 OOb causes the transmitter 73 reference, describes systems for enabling communications (FIG. 1), also associated with the PCD 75, to communicate between mobile vehicles and a remote computer, via stansuitable feedback data, which ultimately is communicated in dardized network communications links. In one embodiment, some form to the response system feedback analyzer lOOa. the links include the Internet and a controller area network 55 In one embodiment, among other possible embodiments, used in vehicles. A TCP/IP stack is implemented in the con the PCD 75 is a conventional and commercially available troller. In another embodiment, each of the vehicles has an touch-tone telephone, and the response can be accomplished Internet address or designation associated with it. by having the notification-receiving party depress one or TI1e systems and methods described in this patent can be more appropriate keys on the keypad associated with the emp Joyed in co1mection with a notification system 10 and can be implemented to accomplish the many features described in 60 telephone. In this embodiment, the response system feedback mechanism 1 OOb is already built into the telephone, in the this document. sense_ that there are already on-board the phone, system com~ M. Response Systems/Methods ponents for recognizing keypad keys that are depressed and Response systems (and methods) are provided for notififor generating dual frequency tones that can be carried across cation systems. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments 65 the communications medium. Also, the telephone is equipped of possible response systems will be described in detail here~ with a transmitter 73 for communicating the dual frequency after. tones. In this embodiment, the BSCU 40 is equipped with a
Exhibit B Page 192
US 7,504,966 B2
41
receiver 45 (communicatively coupled to local interface 33b
42
cation via a telephone to a taxicab, and a message could be ofFIG. 3) for receiving and decoding the dual frequency tone played over the telephone asking the party if another party can that results from depression of a telephone button. Such he picked up at a particular location within a prescribed time receivers/decoders 45 are well known in the art of telephony period. The party associated with the taxicab could send a and are readily commercially available. For instance, the star s response back to the BSCU 40, indicating either acceptance (*)button could be assigned for indicating that the receiving or refusal of the task, by actuating a key that is coded to each party has in fact received the notification communlcation. of these responses. Note that U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,919, whlch Once the receiving party depresses this key and once the BS is entirely incorporated by reference, describes an automated manager 41 recognizes that it has been depressed by detecting dispatch system, in which the response system 100 can be this event, then the BS manager 41 can definitively concl\lde 10 employed receipt of the notification communication by the party assoAs another example, consider a public bus transit system ciated with the PCD 75. that communicates bus arrival/departure information to a More than one key can be used to convey multiple instrucPCD 75 and wherein a party can send a response indicating tions or indications from the notification-receiving party to the BS manager41. The BS manager41 can be equipped with i5 receipt of notice and indicating that the party will he a passenger on the bus. 1bis infonnation would be helpful with an instruction lookup mechanism 84, for example, a lookup table, database, or other mechanism foridentii)ring what each respect to bus scheduling. received key stroke means. It is also possible, in the context of a notification system 10 In some embodiments, more than one party may have employed in connection with a service (e.g., cable installaaccess to the PCD 75, and it may be desirable to give each 20 tion, telephone line installation, etc.) to be performed at a party their own personal code of one or more keys, so that destirotion, that the response system 100 and the response when a response is given by a party, the party can enter his/her system feedback analyzer 100a can be designed so that the own personal code, and the BS manager 41 will therefore he party's response indicates that the party associated with the advised as to which party actually received the notification. PCD 75 needs to have an additional service performed at the In another embodiment, the PCD is a conventional tele- 25 destination or that additional equipment will be needed at the phone and the BSCU 40 is equipped with voice recognition destination. As an example in the context of a telephone line so:frnare. The receiving party confirms receipt of the notifiinstallation, the notified party could indicate that it wishes cation communication with any suitable voice commar1d, for two lines to be installed instead of the one which was ordered, instance, "notification received." Voice recognition systems so that the telephone service vehicle operator is notified in (e.g., IVR) are well known in the art. 30 advance of the requisite additional service/equipment. In another embodiment, when the PCD 75 is a computer, Itis alsO possible, in the context of a notification system 10 one or more keys on the keyboitrd, a mouse click on a button employed in connection with a service to be performed at a provided in a screen image, etc., can be assigned for indicatdestination, that a work order (of work to be performed at the ing that the receiving party has in fact received the notification stop location) is communicated to the PCD 75 during the commlmication. In this embodiment, so:ftv,lare associated 35 notification communication. Furthermore, the notification with the computer recognizes the key depression or mouse message can indicate to the notified party an option that can click and communicates occurrence of same back to the notibe selected by the notified party to connect with and commu~ fication system 10. The software can be a conventional web nicate with the driver of a vehlcle or a party at the BSCU 40 browser and the notification communication could involve or another location, in order to enable the notified party to sending an HTf\1L page (or other markup language) to the 40 discuss the content ofthe work order. Computer that can be operated upon by the web browser. An applet(s) associated with the HTML pagecancausea \v:indow h. Second Embodiment to appear on the computer screen with a selectable button, for example, "Notification Received" and when selected by the mouse, the applet can cause the browser to rerum an HTML 45 FIG. 7B is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary page from the computer back to the notification system 10, implementation of a response system feedback analyzer of which in this case would have a web server that can accept the the present invention, which is optionally implemented as at HTML page response and analyze the content. As an alternaleast part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of tive, the response system 100 could be designed so that any the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. In this embodiment, a input from an input/output (110) peripheral device connected so notified party can cause a connection to be made with a representative that knows the particulars of or that can access to the notification~receiving party's computer could be recognized as a confirmation of receipt by the party of the notithe particulars of a pickup or delivery of an item or service in fication. Also, note that the response can occur during the connection with a stop location. same conununication session as the notification or in a sepaIn this embodiment, the response system 100, particularly rate communication within a reasonable time period. 55 the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be configAny response data, including confirmation of receipt of a ured to implement the following methodology, as is summari7..ed by flow chart in FIG. 78: monitoring travel data in notification, that is received by the response system feedback analyzer 1 OOa can be stored, if desired, with party contact connection with an MT 17 that is destined to pickup or deliver records 86, as shown in FIG. 6, which can take the form of a (an item or service) at a stop location, as indicated at block table, database, etc. 60 105; causing initiation of a notification communication to a It is also possible that the response system 100 and the PCD 75 based upon the travel data (e.g., when the MT 17 is in response system feedback analyzer 100a can be designed so close proximity, has just departed a prior stop location, etc.), as indicated at block 106; and during the notification commuthat the party's response indicates that the party associated with the PCD 75 is willing to accept or refuses a task, or job, nication,_ enabling a party associated with the PCD 75 to associated with the notification. The task can be virtually 65 select whether or not to communicate, for example, via voice by way of a telephone or via text by way of a computer anything that is to be performed by the party. For example, in the context of a taxi service, a BSCU 40 could send a notifinetwork Enk, with a party having access to particulars of the
Exhibit B
Page 193
US 7,504,966 B2
43
44
pickup or delivery, as indicated at block 107, so that a discusparty can select one or more of the options. Possible options sion can be had regarding the particulars of the pickup or are as follows: an option that indicates that the one or more delivery. tasks are proper or confirmed (so go aheadand follow through In some embodiments, where there is a BSCU 40 associwith the scheduled pich.-up or delivery; an option that enables the party to change the one or more tasks or scope thereof; an ated with the notification system 10, the BS manager 41 causes communicative coupling between the PCD 75 of the option to enable adding a task; or an option to enable deletion party and a communications device associated with the party of a task. This embodiment has numerous applications. One nonlim. having access to particulars of the picl'Up or delivery. Tile iting example (e.g., pizza delivery, package delivery, etc.) latter could be located at a call center, at a place that is local to the BSCU 40, etc. 10 involves indicating in a message associated with the notification communication the amount of a bill and enabling the In some embodiments, where there is a BSCU 40 associnotified party to confinn the amount and/or the intention to ated with the notification system 10, the BS manager 41 pay the amount when the MT 17 reaches the stop location for causes communicative coupling between the PCD 75 of the the pickup or delivery. In some embodiments, the system can party and a PCD 75 associated with the MT 17 or person in the MT17. 15 be configured so that the notified party can make payment during the notification communication session. The BSCU 40 A message can be provided during the notification communication that includes a work order or description of the can be designed to prompt the notified party to enter a credit reason why the stop is being made. This can be very useful in card number to be used to pay the bll1. The card number can also be stored in user preferences and retrieved by the man connection with, for example, services to be performed at the stop location. The party being called can communicate with 20 ager 41 pursuant to an appropriate prompt from the notified somebody associated with the pickup/delivery service to cor. party during the notification communication session. rect information that is in error on the work order, add adcUAs another nonlimiting example of such an application, tional tasks to the work order, delete tasks on the work order, consider a configuration where a service, such as a telephone installation, is being provided at the stop location. Further etc. As a further option, the BS manager 41 can be designed to 25 more, assume that there is a work order for installation of a single telephone line. An advertisement (from table 68J of enable the party to select an option that indicates to the noti database 94 of FIG. SA) could be provided to the notified fication system 10 that the work order is proper. For instance, party during the notification commun.ication that indicates a voice recording over a telephone link may say "Hit the pound key if the work order is accurate or hit the star key to that a second line can be installed for half the price of the first talk with a representative." Selection of the pound key would 30 line and for half of the monthly subscriptionfee.An option to confirm to theBSmanager41 the order and theMT17 would select or deselect the second line installation can be provided travel to the stop location, as scheduled, and perfonn the to the notified party. Accordingly, the notified party has the ability to add or change the tasks to be performed at the stop requisite pickup/delivery task. Selection of the star key would location. cause the BS manager 41 to connect the notified PCD 75 with This idea can be applied to other contexts: changing the a communications device of a party having access to particu. 35 Jars of the pickup or delivery. number of goods (e.g., groceries, etc.) to be delivered or picked rip; changing the number of rooms to be carpet c. Third Embodiment cleaned, changing the level of service (each having a different price), etc. FlG. 7C is a flow chart illustrating yet another exemplary 40 implementation of a response system feedback analyzer of d. Fourth Embodiment the present invention, which is optionally implemented as at least part of the architecturt; functionality, and operation of FIG. 7C is a flow chart illustrating still another exemplary the BS managerofFIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified implementation of a response system feedback analyzer party is used to change one or more tasks associated with a 45 100a, which is optionally implemented as at least part of the pickup or delivery of an item or service associated with a stop architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager location. of FIGS. 1 and3. 1n essence, a response from a notified party 1n this embodiment, the response system 100, particularly is used to select one of a plurality of times for a pickup or the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be configdelivery of an item or service to occur at a stop location. ured to implement the following methodology, as is summa so In this embodiment, the response system 100, particularly rized by flow chart in FTG. 7C: monitoring travel data in the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be configconnection with a MT 17 that is destined to pickup or deliver ured to implement the following methodology, as is summa an item or service at a stop location, as indicated at block 108; rized by flow chart in FIG. 7D: directly or indirectly monicausing initiation of a notification corrummication (which toring travel or travel data in connection with one or more may include a message indicating one or more tasks to be 55 MTs 17 in order to track them, as indicated at block 114; accomplished at the stop location) to a personal communica initiating or engaging in a notification communication sestions device based upon.the travel data, as indicated at block sion with a PCD 75, when appropriate, based upon impending 109; and during the notification communication, enabling a arrival or departure of one or more MTs 17 in relation to a party associated with the personal-communications device to location as indicated at block 115; during the notification change one or more tasks associated with the pick'Up or deliv~ 60 communication session, providing a plurality of arrival and! ery, as indicated at block 110. or departure times in relation to the location and enabling The tasks can be stored in and changed within database 94 selection of at least one of the times (directly or indirectly; the (FIG. SA), particularly in tasks table 68m. The BS manager 41 selection can be of an item that is associated in some way with the time so that the selection is essentially indirect), as indican be designed to change any of the tasks, based upon one or more inputs from the notified party. A set of options can be 65 cated at block 116; and causing an MT 17 tO arrive at or depart from the location at substantially the selected time, as indiprovided by the BS manager 41 to the notified party, for example, via IVR, text, screen prompts, or otherwise, and the cated at block 117.
Exhibit B Page 194
US 7,504,966 B2
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As for step 114, the arrival or departure times associated
46
or, if a stop is skipped by such vehicle 17, then the vehicle 17 ~~: ~!~f;i~:o~~~e~~ i~;::~~~!~~- :~:~~~::~~~ can arrive in35minutes instead of one hour. The BSmanager 41 can be designed to initiate the notification communication perhaps regular notifications, occurring between the notificaunder these circumstances and provide the different options 30 tion system and a party, and enabling a party to influence how future notification communications are to occur, after the first during the notification communication, one of which can be one. 'This response system feedback analyzer 100a can be selected by the notified party. summarized by the following steps: initiating a first notificaThus, as can be seen from the aforementioned example, tion communication to a PCD associated with a party, as during the communication session, first and second times 35 indicated by block 111 in F1G. 8; receiving a response com~ may be offered that corresponds substantially with a schedmunication from the party's PCD, as indicated by block 112 uled time and a sooner time. Moreover, different fees may be in FlG. S; and modifying the manner in which future notificharged for selection of the different times. Or, a fee may be cation communications are to be sent to the party, based upon charged for selection of the sooner time. the response, as indicated by block 113 in FlG. 8. Although As another example of a mechanism for triggering a noti- 40 not necessary for implementation, the foregoing methodology can be implemented, and in the -preferred embodiment is fication in accordance with step 115, the user may indicate via user preferences that the user would like to receive a notifiimplemented, by software associated with the BS manager cation when a vehicle is one hour from departing from a 41. The blocks of FIG. 7 would represent the high level architecture of such software. Note, however, that it is poslocation. The BS manager 41 may determine, based upon the monitoringoftraveldata,thattwodifferentvehiclesareavail- 45 sible to have s-pecial -purpose digital or analog hardware able, one departing in 15 minutes and the other departing in designed to implement the methodology. Such hardware can one hour. The BS manager 41 can be designed to initiate the be easily associated with the BSCU 40. notification communication under these circumstances to In this embodiment, the iJritiating step 111 is perfonned by provide the two different options, one of which can be the transmitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), selected by the notified party. 50 under the control of the response system feedback analyzer 1OOa of the BS manager 41. The notificationcommurllcation With respect to step 116, the BS manager 41 can be easily passes through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 designed to provide options to the notified party and to receive (FIG.1) associated with the PCD 75. selections during the notification communication session. The set of options can be provided by the BS manager 41 to The response from the receiving party is communicated by the notified party, for example, via voice recording, IVR, text, 55 the transmitter 73 (FIG. 1), under the control of the response screen prompts, or otherwise, communicated to the notified system feedback mechanism 100b associated with the PCD PCD 75. The notified party can select one or more of the 75 that is associated with the receiving party. In one embodi ment, thePCD75 is a conventional touchtonetelephone, and options on the notified PCD 75 via, for example, IVR, enter ing text, pressing touch pad keys to send a DTMF signal that the response can be accomplished by having the receiving means something to the BS manager 41, selecting a screen 60 party depress one or more appropriate keys on the keypad of prompt via a mouse or touch screen, selecting a link on an the telephone 75to communicate one or more instructions. In HTML screen communicated by the BS manager 41 or a tills embodiment, the BSCU 40 is equipped with a receiver source controlled by or affiliated with the BS manager 41, etc. (communicatively coupled to local interface 33b of FlG. 3) In the case of a plurality of monitored MTs 17, a number of for receiving and decoding the dual frequency tone that times can be provided to correspond respectively with the 65 results from depression of a telephone button. For instance, Mrs 17. Furthermore, the notified party can select one of the the star(*) button could be assigned for indicating an instruc~ plurality of times for an MT 17 to arrive at or depart from the tion from the receiving party. Once the receiving party Exhibit B
Page 195
location, which will identify to the BS manager 41 which one of the Mrs 17 should be caused to arrive at or depart from the with MTs 17 can be stored and updated in database 94 (FIG. location. SA), particularly in MT travel data table 68e. One or a pJu. With respect to step 117, the BS manager 41 can cause, raliiy ofMTs 17 can be monitored by the BS manager 41 for directly or indirectly, anMT 17 to arrive at or depart from the purposes of currying out this embodiment. location at the selected time by any of a variety of possible With respect to step 115, the notification communication systems and/or methods. One method involves having the session can be initiated by the BS manager 41 based upon user selected time communicated to a PCD 75 associated with the or system defined preferences stored in database 94 (FIG. appropriate MT 17 so that the operator of the appropriate !viT 5A). User and system defined preferences have been 10 17 knows of the scheduled arrival or delivery at the location described elsewhere in this document. The predefined prefand can make it happen. In alternative embodiments, the steps erences may include, for instance, (a) a proximity to the 114117 arc performed in a PCD75 associated with a tracked location or (b) a designated location or region that is near the MT 17, in which case the operator will be advised of the location at issue and that when encountered by one or more scheduled arrival or delivery at the location and can make it MTs 17, will result in the communication session. 15 h<lppen. The arrival or departure times ofthe one or more MTs 17 in Another method in which the BS manager 41 can cause the relation to the location may be detennined, at least in part Mf 17 to arrive at or depart from the location at the selected time. in a case where the MT 17 can be remotely contra lled, based upon actual travel status information of the Mrs 17 or at least in part based upon existing scheduling of the MTs 17 wouid be to communicate appropriate data or control signals (which may or may not be updated). 10 totheMT17. This embodiment has numerous applications, but are not As an example of a mechanism for triggering a notification all listed here for simplicity. in accordance with step 115, the user may indicate that the user would like to receive a notification when a pickup vehicle e. Fifth Embodiment is one hour from arriving at a particular stop location. The BS Iilllnager 41 IilliY determine, based upon the monitoring of 25 travel data, that a particular vehicle 17 can arrive in one hour Another embodiment of a response system feedback ana~
US 7,504,966 B2
47
depresses this key and once the response system feedback analyzer lOOa of the BS manager 41 recognizes that it has been depressed by detecting this event (withreceiver72 under the control of the BS manager 41), then the response system feedback analyzer lOOa of the BS manager 41 can act upon the instruction.
48
his/her response, for example, by selecting an appropriate keypad or keyboard button in the case of a telephone or computer, respectively. The instmctlon may indicate to the response system feedback analyzer 1 OOa associated with the BS manager 41 that the notification~receiving party cannot handle any further notifications for a predetermined time
As mentioned previously, more than one key can be used in
period, such as 50 minutes, because the party now attends to
order to convey one or more instmctions from the notificaa task (e.g., unloading or loading an item from an MT) resulting from the first notification. The task may even be identified tion-receiving party to the notification system 10. Furthermore, the PCD 75 could also be a computer or any of the other 10 in the notification-receiving party's response. Accordingly, devices that have been mentioned, or equivalents thereof. the notification-receiving party can influence how the BS As indicated at block 113 in FIG. 8, the response system manager 41 handles future notifications to the particular party. feedback analyzer lOOa of the BS manager 41modifies the manner in which future notification communications are to be As another example, the response system feedback anasent, based upon the response or content in the response, by 15 lyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 can be configured to cause the notification system 10 to wait for the MT 17 manipulating data stored in connection with the notificationreceiving party contact records 86 (FTG. 6). The response tomoveaprescribeddistanceorcomewithinapredetermined system feedback analyzer 1OOa of the BS manager 41 can be proximity of a location before sending another communication to the notification-receiving party. configured to modifY the manner in which future notification commwrications are to be sent in a number of possible ways. 20 As another example, the response system 100 and the In one embodiment, among many possible embodiments, response system feedback analyzer 100a may be designed to when the response system feedback analyzer 100a is impleenable the notification-receivingparty to advise the response mented in software, it is designed to maintain one or more system feedback analyzer 100a to communicate one or more future notifications to one or more different parties that have records pertaining to one or more parties and one or more communication methods associated with each party. Any 25 assigned devices 75, in addition to the notification receiving party or instead of same. suitable table or database can be maintained to store this information, if desired. In this embodiment, this data is stored As another example, the response system 100 and the in party contacts records 86 (FIG. 6). At this step in the response sys1em feedback analyzer 100a may be designed so process, after receiving the response from the notificationthat the response may indicate to the response system feedreceiving party, the response system feedback analyzer 100a 30 back analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 that the notification-receiving party will be changing locations. associated with the BS manager 41 modifies these records, based upon the notification-receiving party's instructions in Therefor~ the BS manager41 should contact a different PCD the response, to store/create modified contact data, in order to 75 in connection with future notifications that is situated affect changes in the manner in which future notification where the party will be in the future, for example but not communications arc communicated 35 limited to, a different telephone in a different facility. By its instructions, the notification-receiving party can, As another example, the response system 100 and the among other things, change the party(ies) to which notificaresponse system feedback analyzer lOOa may be designed so tion communications are sent in the future, change the MT(s) that an instruction may be used to advise the notification that is monitored by the notification system 10, change the system 10 that the notification-receiving party would like to proximity parameter that provokes a notification communi- 40 receive a status message in future notification communicacation, change the TviT stop location that is used by the notitions, indicating the status of travel of the MT 17. For example, in future notifications, the status message may indification system 10 to provoke a notification communication, cate the location of the MT 17 or the proximity (distance ch.ange the notification communication method and/or PCD, change a notification communication to a later time based and/or time) of the Mf 17 with respect to a location. upon a time of day or time period, cancel initiation of one or 45 As another example, the response system 100 and the morE: scheduled future notification communications, etc. response system feedback analyzer 100a may be designed so FIGS. 9A through 9C illustrate, pictorially, notable nonthat an instruction may be used to advise the notification limiting examples of ways in which the response system system 10 that the notification-receiving party would like to receive directions to a site associated with the notification or feedback analyzer 100a of the BS manager 41 can cause the notification system 10 to modify the manner in which future so an advertisement played during the notification. In this notification communications are communicated bv the notiembodiment, the BSCU 40 can be communicatively coupled . to suitable map software. To further illustrate this concept, a fication system 10. As illustrated in FIG. 9A, the response system feedback couple of specific examples are described hereafter. As a first example consider a scenario where a telephone analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 may be designed to cause the notification system 10 to modify con 55 message advises a taxicab driver to: "Pick up at 325 East tact data after receiving the response, as indicated in block Broad Street. Confirm by pressing pound. If you need directions, press the star key." The system could be configured so 121, and to cause the notification system 10 to initiate one or more other future notification communications in accordance that the response system feedback analyzer 100a recognizes the# key as a conflrmation that the driver has in fact received with, or based upon, the modified contact data resulting from the notification-receiving party's response, as indicated in 60 the notification and recognizes the* key as a desire to receive block 122. directions. In this case, the response system feedback anaFor example, the response system feedback analyzer 100a lyzer 100a wotlld access direction information from the map associated with the BS manager 41 can be configured to cause software and forward the direction information, or a part the notification system 10 to wait a time period before sending thereof, to the driver, during the original notificationcommuanother conununication to the receiving party. The time 65 nication or in a subsequent communication. period may be predefined or maybe bedynamica11y programAs a second example consider a scenario where a message mabie. The receiving party may define the time period in sent to a computer advises a person that: "Your UPS package
Exhibit B
Page 196
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has arrived and is ready to be picked up at 325 East Broad Street. Confirm by pressing the one key. Pizza Hut is next door, and if you press the two key now, you will receive a free
50
location, another commtmication from the party inclicating that future notifications are welcome, etc. Detection may occur by actually monitoring travel of the MT 17 or by reviewing data corresponding with travel. beverage." TI1e system could be configured so that the response system feedback analyzer 1 OOa recognizes depres2. Response System Feedback Mechanism sion of the 1 key as a confirmation that the person has in fact FIG.10 shows the high level steps taken by the PCD 75 in received the notification and recognizes depression of the 2 connection with the foregoing embodiments of the response key as a desire to receive the discount. ln this case, the system feedback analyzer 100a. Some devices 75 may response system feedback analyzer lOOa could be designed to already be configured with the appropriate functionality, subsequently send a coupon electronically to the person via 10 while others may need to be configured to exhibit the functhe computer, which could then be printed and taken by the tionality and operate as shown inFIG.10. For example, in the person to the Pizza Hut to receive the discount. case -..vhere a conventional touch-tone telephone is to be used As illustrated in FIG. 9B, the response system feedback as the PCD 75 and where dual-frequency key stroke tones are analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 may be to be used to convey instructions to the BSCU 40, the teledesigned to cause the notification system 10 to modify con- 15 phone already has the requisite functionality to perform the tact data, as indicated in block 131, to refrain from sending steps illustrated in FIG.10. notification communications to the party's PCD 75 after First, the PCD 75 receives the notification commurllcation receiving a response, as denoted in block 132, and to initiate from the BSCU 40, as denoted by block 151 in FIG. 10. one or more other future notification communications to the Accordingly, the party associated with the PCD 75 is given a party and/or one or more other parties, using one or more 20 notification with respect to the MT, e.g., the mobile Mf 17. different communication methods, based upon the modified Next, the PCD 75 receives an input response, e.g., deprescontact data, as denoted in block 133. The communication sion of one or more keys, a voice command, swiping of a methods, may include for example, but not limited to, conmagnetic strip of a card through a card reader, etc., from the tacting the same ora different cellular or land-line telephone, party associated with the PCD 75, as indicated at block 152 of sending an internet email, sending a wireless text message to 25 FIG. 10. The input from the party to the PCD 75 can be a PDA, sending a navigation screen to a computer, sending a manually or automatically accomplished, but it is desirable to notification signal 'and/or message to a television (TV) or implement a mechanism that shows that the party that is computer via a cable modem or satellite modem, sending a supposed to be associated with the PCD 75 has received the notification signal and/or me.<>sage via telex, communicating notification communication by way of the PCD 75. 30 a message via radio transceiver, etc. For sect1rity, it may be desirable to have the notificationAs a specific example of the overall process, the receiving receiving party identified (perhaps even uniquely identified) party may indicate in the response that any future communias one who is authorized or permitted to send a response. For cations should be forwarded to a different communications instance, a fingerprint scanner, a retina scanner, and/or key PCD 75. For example, in the case of a touch-tone telephone, insertion authentication could potentially be employed to the "#" button may be assigned to indicate that the party has 35 verify the appropriateness of the party to produce a response. in fact received the notification, and the "5" button could be Finally, as denoted at block 153 of FIG. 10, the PCD 75 assigned to the :ft.mction of indicating that the communication communicates the party's response to the notification system, method is to be changed. Furthermore, having the party or in this example, the BSCU 40. The response may confirm depress the "2" key after depression of# and 51 could be used receipt of the notification, may indicate to the BSCU 40 that to advise the BS manager 41 that communication method 2, 40 the notified party would like to have a discussion (oral, text, or corresponding to a computer, should be used in the future. otherwise) with somebody who has access to the particulars As a further option, the response system 100 and the of the pickup/delivery, may enable the notified party to response system feedback analyzer 100a can be designed to change one or more tasks (or scope thereof) associated with enable a party to define times (times of day, days of the week, the pickup or delivery, and/or may indicate the manner in etc.) for use of each future commullications method or PCD 45 which future notification communications should be commu75. nicated to the party, as will be further described below. As illustrated in FIG. 9C, the response system feedback N. Response Failure States analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 may be designed to cause the notification system 10 to modify conThe notification system 10, such as the manager 41 of the tact data, as indicated at block 141, to refrain from sending so BSCU 40, can be designed to implement failure states in notification communications to the party's PCD 75 after connection with a request for a response. A failure state occurs when a state of a variable has been reached without receiving a response, until the detection of one or more events, as indicated in block 142, and then to monitor for receiving a response back from a notified party or PCD 75. Internally, a failure state causes the system 10 to tenninate occurrence of the one or more events, as indicated in block 143, and then to cause the notification system 10 to initiate 55 notification communication attempts and/or to take one or one or more other future notification communications to the more actions to accommodate the failure to receive a party and/or one or more other parties, using one or more response. A fuilure state can also be shown on a screen or communication methods, as denoted at block 144. Theone or otherwise indicated to the operator of a PCD 75 (see FIGS. more events can include, for example but not limited to, 25A through 25D; the one being tracked and/or the one being detection that the MT 17 is about to arrive at, is at, and has left 60 notified). A failure state can be systemAdefined or user-defined, and can be stored in user data table 68b (FIG. SA) a panicular location or bas moved a prescribed distance, manual or automatic actuation of a switch on the Mf 17 or at and/or failure state data table 68/ (FIG. SA). A set of nonlirniting examples of failure state variables are a location where the MT 17 visits, a certain time of the day has been achieved, a time period has lapsed since the last notifias follows: (a) a time period variable (FIG. 25A) pertaining to cation communication, cancellation of a package delivery or 65 the amount of time that has elapsed since invocation of the notification; when the time period variable has expired, it pickup, cancellation of an expected stop of an MT 17 at a stop triggers a failure state in the PCD 75!-.-, (b) a distance variable location, delay of an expected stop of an MT 17 at a stop Exhibit B Page 197
US 7,504,966 B2
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pertaining to the distance traveled by the tracked PCD 75k (FIG. 258) sinceinvocationofthe notification; when the PCD 75khas traversed a prescribed distance that is monitored with the distance variable, then a failure state can be invoked in the moving/tracked PCD 75k; (c) a predetermined location variable (FIG, 25C) pertain.lng to a location to be traversed by the moving/tracked PCD 75k; in other words, once the PCD 7Sk determines that it has reached this predetermined location, then a failure state will result; and (d) an acceptance variable (FIG. 25D) which tracks the number of responses and/or 10 acceptances associated with notification communications; this is useful in a configuration where a number of parties have been invited to visit a particular location (e.g., a restaurant), and there are only a limited number of openings; as an example, the system can be set to accept the first party to 15 respond to the notification and invoke a failure state in connection with all other notificatiom (which can be communicated, if desired, to the other PCDs 75 that responded late). Once a failure state has been determined by the manager 41, the manager 41 may be designed to implement one or 20 more of the following actions: look for additional instructions to notifY the next person on a contact or route list, tzy different contact information for the same individual, or utilize this infOrmation to re-route drivers to another destination; auto~ matically notifY anotheruserofthis failure state event; and/or 25 automatically notifY third party companies providing additional services, such as but not limited to, transportation serD vices, that there has been a notification failure.
52
advertisement as part of or accompanying the notification
communication, as indicated by reference numeral173; and (d) charging a fee for or monetarily benefiting from providing
the advertisement, as indicated by reference numeral 174. There are various alternatives and optional steps that may be
practiced in cormection with this method. For example, the fee may be charged for each advertisement in each notification, for a block of advertisements, or for the advertisement service in general. As yet another example, a discount on the
advertisement service may be offered or extended based upon
a purchase of a predetennined number. Yet another advertisement method of doing business,

among others, is illustrated in FIG. 13 and can be broadly
summarized by the following steps (not necessarily in this
order): (a) enabling a party to indicate a willingness to receive one or more advertisements during a notification regarding an Mr 17, as indicated by reference numera1181; (b) providing a notification communication involving travel status of the MT 17, as indicated by referencenumeral182; (c) charging a fee or monetarily benefiting from providing the notification communication, as indicated by reference numeral183; (d) providing an advertisement as part of or accompanying the notification communication, as indicated by reference numeral184; (e) charging a fee for or monetarily benefiting from providing the advertisement, as indicated by reference numeral 185; and (f) providing a discount based upon the party's willingness to receive the one or more advertisements, as indicated by reference numeral 186. There are various alternatives and optional_steps that may be practiced in con0. Advertisement Methods ofDoin.g Business in Connection 30 nection with this method. For example, the fee may be with Notification Services ' a charged for each advertisement in each nott'fication, 10r block of advertisements, or for the advertisement service in Various advertisement methods of doing business can be implemented in COIUlection with the notification services, for general. As yet another example, a discount on the advertiseexample, those described hereinbefore. ment service may be offered or extended based upon a purOne such advertisement method of doing business, among 35 chase of a predetermined number. others, is illustrated in FIG. 11 and can be broadly summaIn altemative embodiments, the stop location of the MT 17 and/or the location of the user and/or PCD 75 can be deterrized by the following steps (not necessarily in this order): (a) monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as indicated mined and taken into account with respect to advertisements. See next section for a discussion of the location determination by reference numera1161; (b) c.:ontacting a party based upon the travel data, as indicated by reference numera1162; (c) 40 of the user, PCD 75, and/or stop location. With this location information, the advertisements can be selected based upon providing an advertisement to the party substantially during the contact, as indicated by reference numeral163; and (d) the geographical location of the user, PCD 75, and/or stop charging a fee or monetarily benefiting from providing the location. As an example, advertisements can be sorted in a database based upon the geographical areas to which they advertisement, as indicated by reference numera1164. There are various alternatives and optional steps that may be prac- 45 pertain. Then, if it is determined that the PCD 75 or that the ticed in connection with this method. For example, the fee stop location is near the intersection of First Street and loth may be charged for each advertisement in each notification, Street, then the advertisement database can be accessed for for a block of advertisements, or for the advertisement service those advertisements that pertain to the vicinity around First in general. As yet another example, a discount on the adverStreet and 1(Yh Street. For instance, the database might tisernent service may be offered or extended based upon a 50 include an advertisement about Pizza Hut, and there might be purchase of a predetermined number. a Pizza Hut that is located one block from tbis intersection. In An advertisement database 68f(F1G. SA) can be disposed this case, the manager 14 may be designed to select the Pizza within the BS manager 41 or communicatively coupled to Hut advertisement and communicate this to the PCD 75 same to enable the manager 41 to initiate an advertisement at because the PCD 75 is in close proximity to the Pizza Hut that an appropriate time during a communication with a PCD 75. 55 is at issue. Also, the system may be designed to forward The advertisement can be conveyed by voice communication, directions to the Pizza Hut to the PCD 75 before, during, or by text communication, by visual presentation on a screen after the advertisement is effectuated at the PCD 75. In alternative embodiments, the timing of the notification (e.g., an email with an accompanying advertisement, etc.), or by other means. communication may be taken into account when advertiseAnother advertisement method of doing business, among 60 ments are selected from a database for communication to the others, is illustrated in FIG. 12 and can be broadly summaPCD 75. For example, the hours when a store is open may be rized by the following steps (not necessarily in this order): (a) tracked in the advertisement database. Further, when a notienabling a party to indicate a willingness to receive one or fication commurllcation is initiated, it may be desirable to more advertisements during a notification regarding an Mf refrain from communicating those advertisements that per~ 17, as indicated by reference numeral171; (b) providing a 65 tain to stores that are closed at the time of the notification communication. In this case, the manager 41 could be notification communication involving travel status of the Mf 17, as indicated by reference numeral 172; (c) providing an designed to prevent such advertisements to occur during preExhibit 8
Page 198
US 7,504,966 B2
53
54
scribed time periods. Moreover, the converse could be pickup task can be accomplished at the determined stop locadesigned into the system, i.e., the system cOuld be designed so tion, as indicated at block 195. Note that these steps can occur that advertisements pertaining to those stores that are known as part of the same communication session or link or in more to be open at the time of the notification communication are than one communication transaction. Although not necessary for implementation, the foregoing commtmicated to the PCD 75. methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred In alternative embodiments, information regarding a notiembodiment is implemented, by software associated with the fication-receiving party, for example, a personal profile in data manager 67, such as the monitoring mechanism 69, of user data table 68b indicating interests, activities, historic the BS manager 41. See stop location determination system information regarding prior purchases, traveling, etc., maybe stored in memory and used to make decisions regarding 10 190 in FIGS. 1 and 3. 'Ihe blocks of FIG. 14 essentially represent the high level architecture of such software. Note, which advertisements to communicate to the PCD 75. however, that it is possible to have special purpose digital or In alternative embodiments, discount awards can be com~ analog hardware designed to implement the same or similar municated to the notification-receivingparty. For example, an methodology, and such hardware could be associated with the image of a discount coupon could be forwarded to the PCD 75 that has a screen, which can be printed or shown by the user to 15 BSCU 40. In this embodiment 190a, the BS manager 41 monitors the business establishment to which it pertains, in order to travel of the MT 17, as previously described, and stores such obtain the discount. As another example, a discount code can information in the database 94.As mentioned, the database 94 be forwarded to the PCD 75 via voice or text, which can be can employ an Mf travel data table 68e for storing such communicated by the user to the business establishment to which it pertains, in order to obtain the discount. TI1e discount 20 information, along with other fields that relate such information to other data in the same table 68 and in other tables 68. code can be predefined by the business establishment and The tracking can be based upon timing, distance, and/or locacommunicated to the notification system 10, wh.lch can store tion information. it in d1e memory 30b, such as in association wlth advertiseThe transmitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG .1), ment data table 68f In alternative embodiments, the wa-iting times associated 25 under the control of the BS manager 41, communicates tbe notification communication. The notification communication with retail establishments, for example but not limited to, passes through the netvvork 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 restaurants, are monitored with periodic communications (FIG. I) associated with the PCD 75. TheBSmanager41 can between a PCD 75 associated with such retail establishments be designed to cause initiation of the notification communiand the BS manager 41. Furthermore, these waiting times can be communicated with advertisements involving such retail 3D cation when the MT 17 is an acceptable proximity, perhaps a predetermined proximity or system-defined or user-defined establishments to the notified PCD 75. proximity, with respect to one or more stop locations, or bas P. Stop Location Determination Systems and Methods Based just passed one or more stop locations. Upon User and/or Device Location Feedback As another alternative, the 8Smanager41 can be designed Stop location determination systems (and methods) 190 35 to cause initiation of the notification communication when that utilize user and/or device location feedback can be implethe MT 17 has already traveled a predefined time period or mented in connection with the notification systems, for distance along a predefined route. example, those described hereinbefore. Several nonlimiting As another alternative, the BS manager 41 can be designed exemplary embodiments of possible stop location determinato initiate a first notification in order to sense the current tion systems (and methods) 190 will be described in detail 40 location of the PCD 75, make a selection of the stop hereafter. Although not limited to this application, such stop location(s) (and perhaps notifY the user of the identity of the location determination systems 190 are particularly useful in stop location(s) during this first notification), and then proco1mection with transportable PCDs that are carried with a vide a second notification communication at a later time, mobile person, as will be clear from the discussion hereafter. when the MT 17 is an acceptable proxinrity to the stop loca45 tion (and perhaps notifY the user, again or fOr the first time, of 1. First Embodiment the identity of the stop location(s) during the second notification communication). TI1e architecture of one such embodiment, among others, is The location data identifYing the location of the PCD 75 is shown in FIG. 14A and is generally denoted by reference stored in the database 94, which as mentioned can contain a numeral 190a.Althoughnot limited to this particular configu- so PCD data table 68g for storing this information. ration, in this embodiment, the stop location detennination The location data identifYing the location of the PCD 75 system l90a is implemented in the notification system 10 of can be generated by a physical action taken by the party FIGS. 1 and 3, particularly the BS manager 41. The .stop associatedwiththePCD75orcanbegeneratedautomatically location determination system 190a, can be configured to by the PCD 75 itself or by other remote sensing means. As an implement the following methodology, as is summarized by 55 example of a physical action, the party could be prompted flow chart in FIG.14: monitoring travel data associated with (e.g., by voice recording) by the BS manager 41 to enter a an MT 17, as indicated at block 191; causing the notification digit on a telephone to indicate a geographical area. For system 10 to communicate a notification involving a delivery instance, the voice recording could say, "Press one if you are or pickup task associated with the MT 17 to a PCD 75 asso~ located in northwest Atlanta, press tvvo for northeast Atlanta, ciated with a party, as indicated at block 192; receiving loca- 60 press three for southwestAtlanta, and press four for southeast tio.n data from the PCD 75 (ultimately from the device user, Atlanta." Obviously, many other encoding schemes are pasdevice itself, and/or another source), as indicated at block sible. In_this example, once the party presses one of these 193; determining one or more stop locations, based upon the telephone buttons, the BS manager 41 via a dual frequency device location data and the travel data associated v..ith the tone decoderi::. able to detenninethe location ofthe party and MT 17, as indicated at block 194; and causing the notification 65 PCD 75. For automatic generationoflocationdata, a location sensor system 10 to communicate an identification of the one or more stop locations to the PCD 75 so that the delivery or 80 can be associated with the PCD 75 to determine or comExhibit 8 Page 199
US 7,504,966 B2
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municate location data to the BS manager 41 via transmitter 73, network 55, and receiver72. Although not limited to this
56
the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished at a stop location. 1l1e identification can be any suitable information that will enable the device user to travel to the stop location(s), configuration, in the preferred embodiment, the location senfor example but not limited to, street address information, bus sor 80 includes a GPS receiverthatreceives GPS signals from GPS satellites. In at least one configuration, the PCD 75 is a stop location or number, street intersection location, longitude and latitude coordinates, audio or visual description of a cellular or personal conununication system (PCS) device and the network 55 is a cellular network and has computer-based place, an image of the stop location, a map image, etc.All of support functionality and processing for receiving location the foregoing can be stored, if desired, in and accessed from signals from the GPS receiver and communicating location the stop location data table 68d (FIG. SA). Directions to the information to the BS manager41. Examples of such systems 10 stop location(s) can also be provided by the BS manager 41 are described in the following patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,360, over the communications link to the PCD 75. The directions 101; 6,519,466; 6,453,237; and 5,479,482, all of which arc can be stored in memory and accessed by an appropriate incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. index that is stored in the table 68d. Note that computer-based functionality for a notification system for communicating a In alternative embodiments, for automatic generation of location data, other types of positioning systems may be 15 map image to the PCD is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,278, utilized to determine location information for the PCD 75. 936, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, radar could be used to remotely track the PCD In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be 75 and then the radar system could be designed to convey designed to communicate, along with an identification(s) of the stop location(s), anidentificationofthe MT 17tothe PCD position information to the PCD 75 or the base station control unit (BSCU) 40, for ultimate consumption and analysis by the 20 75. For example, the identification could be a bus number, BS manager 41. visual or audio description, description of the driver or The BS manager 41 is designed to detennine a stop locavehicle type (bus, railroad train, tax, etc.), etc. The foregoing tion(s), based upon the location data provided by the PCD 75 information can be stored in and accessed from the MT data and based upon the trnvel status of the MT 17. The stop table 68a (FIG. SA). In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be Iocation(s) can be detennined based upon any suitable set of 25 criteria. The database 94 can be provided with a stop location designed to communicate, along with an identification of the data table 68d for storing stop locations and relating them to stop location(s), a code to the PCD 75 that will be used by the MTs 17 that are further identified in the MT data table 68a. coritacted party to indicate to a party associated with the MT 17, for example, a driver of the MT 17, for authentication As an example, the BS manager 41 may be designed to determine an exact or approximate midpoint location 30 purposes so that the party associated with the MT 17 knows that the party arriving at the stop location is properly autho~ between the location of the MT 17 and the location of the PCD 75 to serve as the stop location. The BS manager41 can rized to perform the pick.'Up or delivery. The code can be be interfaced with or be designed to include mapping softstored in and accessed from, for example, the authentication ware (many versions of which are commercially available at data table 68h. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be the present time), geographic infonnation system (GIS) soft- 35 designed to receive an indication from the PCD 75 that the ware, or an address loohp table to enable the BS manager 41 to perform the foregoing determination. Mapping software party is unwilling to perform the delivery or pickup task and interfaces thereto are well known in the art and are comassociated with the notification; and as a consequence, to mercially available. Also, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,650, which initiate another notification conununication to another differ~ is incorporated herein by reference and which describes an 40 ent PCD 75 associated with another party in order to request assistance in the delivery or pickup task from the another example of mapping software. party. As an example, the BS manager 41 may prompt the As another example, the stop location(s) may be selected from a group of predetermined stops (a collection or along a party to press a particular telephone button to indicate a willingness or unwillingness to accept the responsibility of predeterminedroute), known intersections, known addresses, detected locations, locations on a map, etc., that are in an 45 the delivery or pickup. As another example, the BS manager acceptable proximity to the PCD 75 and the Mf 17, at the 41 may forward an HTML page (or other markup language) rime that the determination is made. ofcode to a computcr~basedPCD 75 that visually prompts the In some embodiments, a selection among of group of posparty to make a selection. sible stops can be made by correlating a maximum device distance requirement (distance between the device and a pas- 50 2. Second Embodiment sible stop location) and a maximum MT distance requirement (distance between the MT 17 and a possible stop location) to In further alternative embodiments, as is shown in FIG. the group of possible stop locations. One or more algorithms 148, the BS manager 41 may be designed to perform the following steps: monitoring travel data associated with a plu~ 98 (FIG. SA) can be provided and stored in memory for this purpose. For instance, assume that the maximum device dis- 55 rality (two or more) of Mrs 17, for instance, first and second tance requirement is set at a mile and assume that the maxiMTs 17, as shown in block 201; communicating a notification mum MT distance requirement is set at 5 miles. Also, assume involving a delivery or pickup task to a PCD associated with that the BS manager 41 has determined, based upon its dataa party, as shown in block 202; receiving location data from base, address lookup table, mapping programs, or otherwise, the PCD, as showninblock203; determining one or more first thatthree locations A, B, andC are possible candidates for the 60 stop locations and one or more second stop locations, based device user to pickup from or deliver to the MT 17. In this upon the device location data and the travel data associated scenario, the BS manager 41 can be designed to analyze the with the first and second MTs 17, as shown in block 204; and locations A, B, and C to determine which meet the requireconmmnicating one or more identifications for each of the ments. It can be designed to select one or more locations that first and second MTs 17 as well as their respective first and meets the requirements. 65 second stop locations to the PCD so that the delivery or The BS manager 41 communicates an identification of pickup task can be accomplished at a stop location, as shown each of the one or more stop locations to the PCD 75 so that in block 205.
Exhibit B Page 200
us 7,504,966 82
57
58
In altemative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be pickup at a location that was not originally scheduled or designed to comnnmicate, an indication of the type ofMT 17 charging different fees to a user for different degrees ofnotithat will stop at each location, for example but not limited to, fication immediacy or charging for facilitating a delivery or whether the MT 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. Tills pickup. For example, the entity could charge more for ASAP would enable the notification-receiving party to select which 5 service than for a service having a timing requirement of mode of transportation to utilize. within 24 hours. A stratified billing schedule could be implemented, for example, similar to the manner in which the U.S. In alternative embodiments, the manager 41 is designed to Postal Service charges for mail services: overnight is one enable the user of the PCD 75 to select which of the stop charge, tvw-day service is another, etc. locations and/or which of the MTs 17 that the user wishes to Note that, with the stop location determination system utilize. This can be accomplished using one of the variations 10 190c, a user can meet a driver of a vehic1e at any one of a of the response system, which have been described in detail number of vehicle stops along a route traveled by the vehicle. previously. Furthermore, this selection or information indica As an example, a party may wish to meet a driver and obtain tivc thereof can be forwarded by the manager 41 to a coma package as soon as possible. This system 190c allows the munications device, for example, device 44 (FIG. 1), associated with theselectedMT 17, so that the MT17 is aware of the 15 party to interact with the driver/vehicle at an appropriate vehicle stop (address or map based location) that meets the pickup or delivery by the user at the selected stop location. timing criterion, perhaps one that was not originally intended Also, ifdesired, themanager41 can be designed to advise one by the party or driver. or more other MTs 17 that they have not been selected. In this embodiment 190c, the massage manager 82 of the Q. Stop Location Determination Systems and Methods Based 20 BS manager 41 receives the one or more timing criteria corUpon Timing Criteria responding to a pickup or delivery and stores this infonnation Stop location determination systems (and methods) 190 in the user data table 68b. The timing criteria can be commuthat utilize timing criteria (system defined or user defined via nicated to the BS manager 41 via any suitable means, for user preferences) can be implemented in connection with the example but not limited to, via a computer over the Internet, notification systems, for example, those described hereinbe~ 25 in response to screen prompts associated with a graphical user fore. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of posinterface displayed on the user's computer screen and genersible stop location determination systems (and methods) 190 ated from HTML (with applets, if desired, in the implemenof this type will be described in detail hereafter. Although not tation) communicated from the BSCU 40 to the user comlimited to this application, such stop location determination puter. systems 190 are particularly useful in connection with trans- 30 The data manager 67 and! or the monitoring mechanism 69 portable PCDs that are carried with a mobile person, as will be of the BS manager41 is designed to monitor travel of the MT clear from the discussion hereafter. 17, as previously described. The tracking can be based upon tirning, distance, and/or location infonnation. 1. First Embodiment The data manager 67 and/or the monitoring mechanism 69 35 of the BS manager 41 is further designed to determine a Thearchitectureofonesuchembocliment,amongothers,is pickup/delivery locution(s) for the MT 17 based upon the shown in FIG.lSAand is denoted by referencenumeral190c. travel status and the timing criteria (and in alternative Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this embodiments, additionally based upon location data associated with the PCD 75 itself, an originally scheduled pickup/ embodiment, the stop location determination system 190c is implemented in the monitoring mechanism 69 (FIG. SB) 40 delivery location, or some other location or geographical associated with the notification system 10, particularly in the reference). Any suitable algorithms may be employed by the software associated with the BS manager 41 (FIG. 3). Tills BS manager 41 to accomplish this determination task. The stop location(s) may be determined from a group of stop location determination system 190c, can be configured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized by predetermined eligible stops (a collection or along a prede:flow chart in FIG. 15A, via suitable programming: receiving 45 termined route), from known intersections, from a set of one or more timing criteria corresponding to a pickup or detected locations, from locations on a map, from addresses, etc. The BS manager 41 can be interfaced with or be designed delivery, as denoted at block 211; monitoring travel data pertaining to an MT 17, as denoted at block 212; detennining to include conventional mapping software to enable the BS one or more pickup/delivery locations for the MT 17 based manager 41 to perform the foregoing determination. upon the travel status and the timing criteria, as denoted at so As a simple example of a determination process, the BS block 213; and communicating with a PCD 75 associated manager 41 could select the next stop or next two stops along with a party and providing the pickup/delivery locations to a predetermined route associated with a delivery vehicle when it will arrive at such stop or stops within a specified the communications device, as denoted at block 214, so that timing criterion, e.g., 30 minutes. pickup or delivery can be accomplished in accordance with the timing criteria at a stop location, 55 In some embodiments, a selection among a group ofpos1be timing criteria can be, for example but not limited to, sible stops can be made by correlating a maximwn device time requirement (time that it will take a person carrying the a time ofthe day, a periodoftimeduring the day (e.g., 2:00pm to 4:00pm, daytime, nighttime, etc.), days of the week, weeks device to travel the distance betv.reen thedeviceanda possible of the month, a period of time to elapse from the time that the stop location) and a maximum MT time requirement (time timing criteria are made k11own to the notification system 60 that it will take the MT 17 to travel the distance between the (e.g., in3 hours), an indication ofASAP (as soon as possible), MT 17 and a possible stop location) to the group of possible etc. In the preferred embodiment, the timing criteria are comstop locations. For instance, assmne that the timing criterion municated to the BS manager 41 by the user and are stored in is set at 15 minutes, that the BS manager 41 bas determined, user data table 68b of the database 94 (FIG. SA). based upon its database, mapping programs, or otherwise, The entity that owns and! or operates the notification sys- 65 that three locations A, B, and Care possible candidates for the tern 10 or notification service could even practice a business device user to pickup from or deliver to the MT 17, that the methodinvolvingcharginga user for delivering to or enabling maximum device time requirement for locations A, B, and C
a
Exhibit B
Page 201
US 7,504,966 B2
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are 10, 16, and 20 minutes, respectively, and that the maxi-
60
party. As an example, the BS manager 41 may prompt the party to press a particular device button to indicate a willingness or unwillingness to accept the responsibility of the delivery or pickup. As another example, the BS manager 41may forward an HTML page of code to a computer-based PCD 75 that visually prompts the party to make a selection.
mum MT time req11irementfor locations A, B, and Care 5, 11,

and 9 minutes, respectively. In this scenario, the BS manager 41 can be designed to select location A, because the timing criterion will be met. In alternative embodiments, the stop location(s) may be
selected from locations that are in an acceptable proximity to the PCD 75 and the MT 17, at the time that the determination is made, but which would satisfy the one or more timing
2. Second Embodiment
criteria. In these alternative embodiments, the location of the 10 As illustrated in FIG. 15B, the BS manager 41 may be PCD 75 can be assumed, in general, based upon the home configured to perform the following steps: receiving one or address. work address, telephone number exchange associmore timing criteria corresponding to a pickup or delivery, as ated with the PCD 75, etc., associated with the user, could be denoted at block 221; monitoring travel data pertaining to a determined using a location sensor situated on the PCD 75 (as plurality ofMTs 17, for instance, first and second MTs 17, as previously described), could be based upon other configura- 15 denoted at block 222; determining a pickup/delivery location data provided by the user, etc. tions for the first and second MTs 17 based upon the travel When a notification communication is to occur, the transstatus and the timing criteria, as denoted at block 223; and mitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), under the contacting a communications device associated with a party control of the BS manager 41, communicates the notification and providing the pickup/delivery locations for the f1rst and communication. The notification communication passes 20 second MTs 17, respectively, to the communications device, through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 (FIG. 1) so that pickup or delivery can be accomplished in accordance associated with the PCD 75. The BS manager 41 can be with the timing criteria, as denoted at block 224. designed to cause initiation of the notification communicaIn alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be tion when a suitable MT 17 is an acceptable proximity, perdesigned to communicate, an indlcation of the type ofMT 17 haps a predetermined proximity or system-defined or user- 25 that will stop at each location, for example but not limited to, defined proximity, with respect to one or more stop locations. whether the Mf 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. This As another alternative, the BS manager 41 can be designed would enable the notification-receiving party to select which to cause initiation of the notification communication when a mode of transportation to utilize. suitable MT 17 bali already traveled a predefined time period In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 is designed along a predefined route. 30 to enable the user of the PCD 75 to select which of the stop The BS manager 41 communicates an identification of the locations and/or which of the MTs 17 that the user wishes to stop location(s) to the PCD 75 so that the delivery or picJ..-up utilize. This can be accomplished using one of the variations task can be accomplished at a stop location. The identification of the response system, which have been described in detail can be any suitable information that will enable the device previously. Furthermore, this selection or information indicauser to travel io the stop location(s), for example but not 35 tive thereof can be forwarded by the BS manager 41 to a limited to, street address inforn1ation, bus stop location or communications device, for example, device 44 (FIG. 1), number, street intersection location, longitude and latitude associated with the selected MT 17, so that the MT 17 is coordinates, audio or visual description of a place, an image aware of the pickup or delivery by the user at the selected stop of the stop location, a map image, etc. Directions 1o the ~top location. Also, if desired, the BS manager 41 can be designed location(s) can also be provided by the BS manager 41 over 40 to advise one or more other MTs 17 tl1at they have not been the communications link. selected. In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to communicate, along with an identification of the R. Secure Notification Messaging Systems and Methods stop location(s), an identification of the MT 17 to the PCD 75. Secure notification messaging systems and methods can be For example, the identification could be a bus number, visual 45 implemented in connection with the notification systems, for or audio description, description of the driver or vehicle type, example, those described hereinbefore, to give the contacted etc. party confidence that the notification message ls genuine and In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be legitimate. More specifically, the BS manager 41 may be designed to designed to communicate, along with an identification of a plurality of stop locations, an indication ofthetypeofMT 17 so send authentication information to the PCD 75 when a notification is in progress to indicate to the user that the notificathat will stop at each location, for example but not limited to, whether the Mf 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. tion is originating from the proper source. The aut11entication In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be information can be, for example but not limited to, any of the designed to communicate, along with an identification of the following: a logo, trademark, coat of arms, symbol, prestop location, a code to the PCD 75 that will be used by the 55 defined symbol or text or numeric code that has been made known to or selected by the party being contacted, specific contacted party to indicate to a party associated with the Mf 17, for example, a driver of the MT 17, for authentication sound or sounds or music, a distinctive ring as described in purposes so that the party associated with the MT 17 knows U.S. Pat. No. 6,313,760 that is selected by the user, image of that the party arriving at the stop location is properly authoa vehicle or driver, live image of vehicle or driver, a telephone rized to perform the pickup or delivery. 60 number that can be called to verifY the notification, such as the In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be telephonenumberassociatedwithatelephonesituatedonthe designed to receive an indication from the PCD 75 that the MT 17 or associated with a verification entity, part of a credit card number, such as the last four digits, an imnge of a party is unwilling to perform the delivery or pick"llp task associated with the notification; and as a consequence, to signature, such as the signature of the notified party, a public initiate another notification communication to another differ- 65 official, or another party, etc. ent PCD 75 associated with another party in order to request The authentication information can be preset or dynamiassistance in the delivery or pichlp task from the another callyprogrammable. Itcanbeuserdefinedorsystemde:fined. Exhibit B Page 202
US 7,504,966 B2
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62
link to communicate with the server to certify that the authenWl1en the PCD 75 is equipped with a screen (e,g., a Sanyo tication information is from the authorized source. Mode181 00 wireless PCS vision picture phone distributed by Sprint, a Sony Ericsson T300 wireless picture phone distribAs an example, a certifiable image may be utilized. More uted by T-Mobile, etc.), an image can be sent. When the PCD specifically, an image is communicated to the PCD 75 and the 75 is equipped with audio capabilities, a signal that causes an 5 user ofthe PCD 75 can have the content of the image certified audible signal at the user end can be sent. When the PCD 75 or verified as originating from an authorized source. In one is equipped with motion or vibration capabilities, a signal can such embodiment, the image (captured live via digital camera be sent that causes a particular motion or vibration signal to or prerecorded) is a picUire of a mobile vehicle driver that is occur at the user end. communicated to a computer-based PCD 75 during the notiThe authentication data can be stored in authentication data 10 fication communication. The image is embedded in HTML, XML, or some other markup language with java applets. A table 68h of the database 94 or the data can be accessed hyperlink is provided so that the device user can click on, or remotely, even dynamically during a communication with select, the image or select the hyperlink, which causes the PCD75. image to be sent to a remote certification/verification server FIG.16 shows graphically the secure notification messaging system and is generally denoted by reference numeral 15 on the Internet. The certificatioofverification server can be part of the notification system or a separate entity. The server 210. As an exemplary implementation, the system 210 is compares the image with an image of the driver that is stored implemented in software in the monitoring mechanism 69 in a local accessible database. When it matches or does not associated with the BS manager 41. The software is configmatch, the server is designed to communicate such message ured to perform or cause perfonnance of the following steps: monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as indicated 20 back to the PCD 75 indicating the match or nonmatch, respectively. at block 231; communicating a notification involving a delivAs another example, a certifiable code may be utilized. In ery or pickup task associated with the MT 17 to a PCD this example, the certification/verification server has a list of associated with a party, as indicated at block 232; and proauthorized codes in its database that are authorized to be used viding authentication information 234 to the PCD that indicates to the party that the notification is from an authorized 25 by lhe notification system/service. The server compares the incoming code with a code that is stored in an accessible source, as indicated at block 233. The providing step can be database. When it matches or does not match, the server is performed before, during (as part of the same step), or after designed to communicate such message back to the PCD 75 the communicating step. As is shown in FIG. i6, the authenindicating the match or nonmatch, respectively. ticationinformation 234can bestoredinthememory JOb, can As another alternative embodiment, the MT 17 may be be accessed by the BS manager 41, and communicated by the 30 equipped with one or more digital cameras (or the cameras BS manager 41 to the PCD 75. may be disposed remote from the MT 17) for capturing an In alternative embodiments, among others, a party can image, series of images, and/or video (real time live or predefine one or more authentication indicia to be sent to the delayed) of the MT 17, of a person (e.g., a driver) or thing PCD 75 during a notification. The BS manager 41 is designed 35 sihlated within the MT 17, or of something outside the MT 17 with functionality to permit a party to communicate with the and for communicating the image or video to a website server BS manager 41 and provide configuration information, such on the World Wide Web (yiWW) of the Internet. Moreover, as an identification of the authentication indicia. Such conthe authentication information may include a hyperlink to the figuration information can be stored and accessed by the BS website server on the W'WW of the Internet so that the notimanager 41 in the user data table 6Sb and/or the authentica40 :fication-receiving party can view the image or video taken tion data table 68h. from the :MT 17. As an example, the contact can occur by having the party FIG. 16A shows a possible screen message that can be use a computer or computer-based device to communicate driven to (such as over the internet) and shown on a notified with the BS manager 41 over the Internet, particularly the WWW. Any suitable graphical user interface can be 45 PCD 75 during a notification communication. The screen has animage235 ofthe party associated with the MT 17 who will employed to enable communications. U.S. Pat. No. 6,411,891 be arriving at the stop location. Also, with this example, a describes systems and methods for enabling interactions response system, as described previously in this document, is between a party using a computer and a base station computer implemented. More specifically, the notified party is associated with a notification system, the description of which is incorporate herein by reference. These systems and 50 prompted: "Please reply to this message for additional veri a :fication, to cancel the arrival, or to reschedule." Hyperlinks methods can be employed in the context of this example. can be associated with each of the foregoing sentence eleAs another example, the contact can occur by having the ments, so that when the recipient selects one, the BSCU 40 party use a conventional telephone to communicate with the receives the selection and can act accordingly. BS manager 41 over the PSTN. In connection with such a telephone link, any suitable interactive voice response (IVR) 55 S. Mobile Thing Determination Systems and Methods system or dual-tone encoding scheme may be utilized to communicate information. U.S. Pat. No. 5,657,010 describes 1. First Embodiment systems and methods for enabling interactions between a party using a telephone and a base station computer associMobile thing determination systems (and methods) 250 ated \Vith a notification system, the description of which is 60 can be implemented in connection with the notification sysa incorporate herein by reference. These systems and methods terns, for example, those described hereinbefore. Several can be employed in the context of this example. nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of possible MT determination systems (and methods) 250 will be described in In further alternative embodiments, a link may be provided by the BS manager 41 with the authentication information to detail hereafter. Although not limited to these applications, enable the party to certify that the authentication information 65 such determination systems 250 are particularly useful in is from an authorized source. For example, the link may be a connection with transportable PCDs that are carried with a mobile person and in connection with transportation services, hyperlink to a server on the Internet. The party can select the
Exhibit B
Page 203
US 7,504,966 B2 63 64
like taxicab services, that have a number of vehicles and stop from a location, the entry of the MT into a geographic region, locations that can be anywhere, as will be clear from the etc.), a particular time that the passenger must arrive at the discussion hereafter. dropoff location, a time period that the user is willing to The architecture of one such embodiment, among others, is expend on the trip (several selections could be provided per shown in FIG. 17A and is generally denoted by reference 5 taining to the same or different vehicles), the type or location numeral250a. Although not limited to this particular configuof seat that the passenger would like to reserve, whether a pickup vehicle has air conditioning, the type of security or ration, in this embodiment, the MT determination system 250a is implemented in the notification system 10, particucare that is to be taken with respect to a package that is being picked up, an identification and/or when to use one or more larly the BS manager 41. TI1e MT determination system 250a, is configured to implement the fOllowing methodology, as is 10 communications methods, a specification to attempt another communications device if a first one fails, any of those pref~ summarized by :flow chart in FIG. 17A: pennitting a party to identify a pickup location, a dropofflocation, and one or more crcnces mentioned previously in this document, etc. The user notification preferences, as indicated at block 251; idencommunications methods may involve, for example but not ti:f)ring an MT 17 based upon the identity of the pickup ]oca~ limited to, communicating a signal and/or a message to a tion, the dropofflocation, or both, as indicated at block 252; 15 land~ line telephone, cellular, satellite, or wireless telephone, and communicating an identity of the Mf when appropriate, facsimile machine, computer, television, cable TV transpursuant to the one or more notification preferences, as indi~ ceiver, satellite transceiver, personal data assistant (PDA), cated in block 253. Note that these steps can occur as part of pager, any addressable communications device on the inter~ the same communication session or link or in more than one net, etc. Both a signal and a message may be sent to the target communication transaction. 20 communications device, for example, a ring signal and a text Additionaily and optionally, the MT determination system message could be communicated to a PDA, pager, or com250a (or system 250b) can be further designed to receive an puter. identification or characteristic of a thing during a communiWith respect to step 252, any of a number of possible cation session between the BSCU 40 and the PCD 75, for criteria may be used by the BS manager 41 to identify and/or example but not limited to, an identity or characteristic of a 25 select an MT 17 to accomplish the pickup and drop off task, package or person, to be picked up at the pickup location. This while complying with the user preferences. As an example of information can be used for planning and/or verification purthe MT identification process in the context of taxicabs, conposes. Further, if desired, the system 250a (or system 250b) sider a scenario where the user has indicated that one of can he configured to cause the BSCU 40 to communicate this his/her preferences is to get picked up within fifteen minutes identification or characteristic of the thing to be picked up to 30 and that another one of his, her preferences is that the taxicab a communications device associated with the MT 17, so that must have air conditioning. Further assume that the BS mana party associated with the MT 17 can verify the thing at the ager 41 knows that a taxicab having air conditioning is curpickup location. The identity or characteristic can be any of a rently available in the geographical area of the pickup locanumber of possibilities, such as a number (e.g., bar code tion and can travel to the pickup location within the specified number, Federal Express number, etc.) associated with a 35 fifteen minutes. In this example, the BS manager 41 can be package, the weight or siz.e of a package, or the name of a designed to assign the taxicab to the task of picking the user person. up at the pickup location and dropping the user off at the Although not necessary for implementation, the foregoing dropofflocation. A communication can be sent by the BSCU methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred 40 to a communications device associated with the taxicab, embodiment is implemented, by software associated with the 4D indicating the pickup particulars. data manager 67 and/or the monitoring mechanism 69 (FIG. With respect to step 253, the BS manager 41 is designed to 58) of the BS manager 41. See stop location determination initiate a notification communication and communicate an system 250 in FIGS. 1 and 3. The combination of blocks of identity of the MT 17, when appropriate, pursuant to the one FIG. 17A essentially represents the high level architecture of or more notification preferences. In the preferred embodisuch software. Note, however, that it is possible to have spe- 45 ment, the notification communication session is initiated by cia! purpose digital or analog hardware designed to implethe BS manager 41 when the MT 17 is at a particular location, ment the same or similar methodology, and such hardware is within a particular geographical region, or is within a parcould be associated with the BSCU 40. ticular proximity of the dropofflocation, using the monitor~ Pickup and dropofflocations can be stored and accessed in ing systems and algorithms described previously in this docuthe stop location data table 68d. Identification ofMTs can be 50 ment. stored and accessed in the MT data table 68a. Further, user notification preferences can be stored and accessed in the user During the notification communication session, the MT 17 can be identified with a vehicle number, with a description of data table GSb, More specifically, with respect to step 251, the BS manager a vehicle type, color, etc., with reference to a logo on the MT, 41 is designed to permit a party to identify a pickup location, 55 with a digitized picture or video of the MT, or in some other way. a dropofflocation, and one or more notification preferences. The communication can occur via any suitable communicaThe BS manager 41 can be designed to enable the party to tions device and with any suitable user interface, but in the acceptordenythepickupanddropoffusingtheidentifiedMT preferred embodiment, the communication is accomplished 17 during the notification communication session or during a through a portable computer~based PCD 75, such as a wire- 60 subsequent communication session. This can be accomplished with a suitable graphical user interface, assuming the less telephone or PDA. The notification preferences may include, for example but not limited to, a proximity of the MT PCD 75 has display capabilities, with an IVR, by touch tone commands pressed by the device user, by other means of to the pickup location (e.g., a distance between the IviT and the pickup location that is to be met before a notification will communication described elsewhere in this document, etc. TheBS manager41 can be designed to provide information occur, a telephone number to be used when making the noti- 65 concerning the capacity of the MT 17 during the notification fication communication, a time period that it will take the MT communication session, for example but not limited to, the to reach the pickup location, the arrival or departure oftheMT
Exhibit B
Page 204
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number of passengers, packages, or other items currently residing on the iviT 17, the number of vacant spaces, seats, slots, etc. The BS manager 41 may be designed to receive iriforma~ tion regarding an item, for example but not limited to, a package, that is placed on the MT 17, based upon it being placed on the MT 17 at the pickup location, based upon it
66
The BS manager 41 can be designed to enable the party to accept or deny the pickup and dropoffusing the identified MT 17 during the first communication session, during the second communication session, or during a subsequent communica5 tion session. This can be accomplished with a suitable graphical user interface, assuming the PCD 75 has display capabilities, with an IVR, by touch tone commands pressed by the device user, by other means of communication described being dropped off at the dropofflocation, or both. This inforelsewhere in this document, etc. mation is useful for tracking the item as well as the capacity Note that the second communication session can occur of the MT to handle new items. Furthermore, a machine 10 between the BSCU 40 and a different PCD 75, that is, differreadable code, for example, a bar code or electronic tag (see ent from the one involved in the frrst communication session, U.S. Pat. No. 6,144,301), could reside on orin or be placed on based upon user notification preferences. The user can or in the item and read by a suitable reader, such as a bar code specifY in the first communication session or in some other scanner or electronic tag reader, at some time when the item is matched up with the MT 17. Moreover, this code or a 15 communications session with the BS manager 41, which communication method(s) should by used for the second derivative thereof (e.g., an indicator of less bit size, a coded communication session (which is the notification session). representation, an index in a lookup table, etc.) could be communicated from the MT, using a suitable communicaThe BS manager 41 can be designed to provide information tions device on the MT 17, to the BSCU 40 for further proconcerning the capacity of the MT 17 during the first comcessing and analysis, if desired. 20 munication session, second communication session, or both, for example, the number of passengers, packages, or other items, the number of vacant spaces, seats, slots, etc. 2. Second Embodiment The BS manager 41 can be designed to receive information regarding an item, for example, a package, that is placed on TI1e architecture of another embodiment of the MT deter25 the MT 17, based upon it being placed on the MT 17 at the mination system 250, among others, is showninFIG.17Band pickup location, based upon it being dropped off at the is generally denoted by reference numeral250b. Although not dropofflocation, or both. This information is useful for tracklimited to this particular configuration, in this embodiment, ing the item as well as the capacity of the MT to handle new the MT detennination system 250b is implemented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS manager 41. The 30 items. Furthermore, a machine readable code, for example, a bar code, could reside on or in or be placed on or in the item MT determination system 250b, is configured to implement and read by a suitable reader, such as a bar code scanner, at the following methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in some time when the item is matched up with the MT 17. FIG. 178: establishing. a first communication session Moreover, this code or a derivative thereof could be com.mum between the system 10 and a PCD 75, as indicated at block 261; during the first communication session, permitting a 35 nicated from the MT, using a suitable communications device, to the BSCU 40 for furtherprocessingandanalysis, if party associated with the PCD 75 to identify (a) a communidesired. cations method for providing a notification, (b) a pickup location and (c) a dropofflocation, as indicated at block 262; identifying an MT that will arrive at the pickup location for 3. Third Embodiment pickup and that will travel to the dropofflocation for dropoff, 40 based upon the identity of the pick'Up location, the dropoff The architecture of yet another embodiment of the MT location, or both, as indicated at block 263; establishing a determination system 250, among others, is shown in FIG. second communication session in accordance with the caroM 17C and is generally denoted by reference numeral 250c. munications methodforproviding a notification, as indicated Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this at block 264; and during the second communications session, 45 embodiment, the MT determination system 250c is impleidentifying the MT, as indicated at block 265. In the preferred mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS embodiment, the second communication session is initiated manager 41. TI1e MT determination system 250c, is configby the BS manager 41 when the MT 17 is at a particular ured to implement the following methodology, as is summalocation, is within a particular geographical region, or is rized by flow chart in FIG. 17C: during a communication within a particular proximity of the dropoff location, using 50 session with a PCD 75, determining a location (can be a the monitoring systems and algorithms described previously geographic area or an approximate location, depending upon in this document. the precision needed to effect pickup or delivery) of the PCD Although not necessary for implementation, the foregoing 75; and identifying an MT 17 to travel to the location or methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred another location that is near the determined location for a embodiment is implemented, by software associated with the 55 pickllp or delivery based upon the determined location oftbe BS manager 41. See stop location determination system 250 PCD75. in FIGS.1 and 3. The combination of blocks ofFIG.17B Note that, in this embodiment 250c, the communication essentially represents the high level architecture of such softsession that is used to enable detection of the location of the ware. Note, however, that it is possible to have special purPCD 75 can be a notification communication initiated from pose digital or analog hardware designed to implement the 60 the system 10 to the PCD 75, based upon one or more criteria same or similar methodology, and such hardware could be defined by a user in user notification preferences, or can be a associated with the BSCU 40. communication initiated by the PCD 75 to the system 10. During the first and/or second commtmication sessions, the When the latter is implemented, the system 250c may be Mf 17 can be identified with a vehicle number, with a designed to cause a subsequent notlfication communication description of a vehicle type, color, etc., with reference to a 65 session to the PCD 75 and/or a different PCD 75 (defined by logo on the MT, with a digitized picture or video of the MT, or user preferences) from the system 10 based upon travel status in some other way. of the MT 17, e.g., when the determined MT is at a particular
Exhibit B
Page 205
US 7,504,966 B2
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location, is within a particular geographical region, or is within a particular proximity oft he location. The location of the PCD 75 can be determined automati cally, using any of the techniques described previously, or can be detemtined by prompting the device user to manually enter
68
PCD 75 presently resides may have been manually commu nicated to the system 10 by the user of PCD 75. In thls example, the BS manager 41 may be configured to select any suitable stop location that is within the geographic region corresponding to the zip code. an identification (e.g., an address, region, stop number, etc.) The user can even be given the opportunity to select or description of the device location. As an example, the between the determined or the different location. The user device user could be prompted to enter a text message that could even be charged a fee or a higher rate for causing the includes the post office address that is nearest the PCD 75 or MT 17 to travel to the device location as opposed to the to enter the zip code in which the PCD 75 resides. 10 different location (the one that may correspond to an already Further, when the MT 17 is identified, it maybe selected, if scheduled stop). necessary, from a plurality of possible :rvrfs 17, based upon 4. Fourth Embodiment user notification preferences in addition to the determined location of the PCD 75. The architecture of still another embodiment of the MT As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as 15 determination system 250, among others, is shown in FIG. previously described, although not in this context, this 17D and is generally denoted by reference numeral 250d. embodiment 250c can be further designed to communicate an Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this identification of the location of the PCD 75 to a communica~ tions device associated with the MT 17. embodiment, the MT determination system 250d is impleAs with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as 20 mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS manager 41. The MT determination system 250d, is config~ previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further ured to implement the following methodology, as is summa~ designed to communicating an identification of the MT 17, rized by flow chart in FIG. 17D: causing orestabHshing a first such as a number or description, to the PCD 75. communication session between the system 10 and a PCD 75; As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further 25 during the first communication session, detennining a loca~ tion _(can be a geographic area or an approximate location, designed to enable the party associated with the PCD 75 to depending upon the precision needed to effect pickup or accept or deny the responsibility of the pickup or the delivery delivery) of the PCD 75; selecting an MT 17 from among a using the identified MT during the communication session or plurality to travel to the detennined location or another Ioca~ during a subsequent communication session with an appro~ priate response from the user of the PCD 75. See response 30 tion for a pickup or delivery at one of the locations; and causing or monitoring establishment of a second communisystems and methods described earlier in this document. Fur~ cation session between the system 10 and the PCD 75 when thermore, the BS manager41 can be designed to forward the one or more user preferences criteria relating to travel status detected location of the PCD 75 back to the PCD 75, so that the user of the PCD 75 is aware of the system detected of the selected MT 17 have been satisfied to notifY the user of 35 thePCD 75 of the impending arrival ofthe MT 17 at one of the locati011 and can confirm it. locations. As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as Note that, in this embodiment 250d, the communication previously described, this eril.bodiment 250c can be further session that is used to enable detection of the location of the designed to provide information concerning a capaCity of PCD 75 can be a notification communication initiated from items situated on the MT 17 that is to travel to the pickup or delivery location. 40 the system 10 to the PCD 75, based upon one or more criteria defined by a user in user notification preferences, or can be a As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as non~notification communication initiated by the PCD 75 to previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further the system 10. designed to receive information from the PCD 75 regarding The system 250d can be designed to cause the second an item that is to be placed on the MT 17 at the location or dropped off at the location, or both. With respect to the 45 communication session to the PCD 75 (and perhaps to a different PCD 75 pursuant to user preferences) from the sysformer, the item may be equipped with a human readable code or machine readable code that can be read or scanned and sent tem 10 based upon travel status of the MT 17 and predefined to the system 10. user preferences, e.g., when the determined MT is at a par~ As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as ticular location, is within a particular geographical region, or previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further 50 is within a particular proximity of the location with respect to timing or distance. designed to receive an identification or characteristic of a thing to be picked up by the MT 17 at the location, and to Further, when the MT 17 is identified, it may be selected, if communicate the thing identification or characteristic to a necessary, from a plurality of possible MTs 17, based upon communications device, personal or otherwise, associated user notification preferences in addition to the determined with the MT 17. ss location ofthe PCD 75. As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as In other alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can previously described, although not in this context, this also be designed to communicate a location to the PCD 75 embodiment 250d can be further designed to conrmunlcate an that is different than the detected location or approximate detected location of the PCD 75 or that is in an area that the identification of the location of the PCD 75 to a communica~ PCD 75 is detected to be within or near. For example, if the 60 tions device associated with the MT 17. PCD 75 is detected to be near an already existing scheduled As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as stop locationforanMT 17, then the PCD 75 may be advised previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further of the stop location. An identity of, description of, and/or designed to communicate an identification oftheMT 17, such directions thereto can be communicated to the PCD 75. The as a number or description. to the PCD 75. device user can be glven the opportunity to accept or deny a 65 As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as pickup or delivery at the different location. As another previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further example, the zip code associated with the area in which the designed to enable the party associated with the PCD 75 to Exhibit B Page 206
US 7,504,966 B2
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70
accept or deny the responsibility of the pickup or the delivery T11e architecture ofone such embodiment, among others, is using the identified MT during the communication session or shown in FIG. 18 and is generally denoted by reference numeral290. Although not limited to this particular configuduring a subsequent communication session with an appro~ priate response from the user of the PCD 75. See response ration, in this embodiment, the system 290 is implemented in systems and methods described earlier in this document. Furthe notification system 10, particularly the BS manager 41. The system 290 is configured to implement the following thermore, the BS manager 41 can be designed to forward the detected location of the PCD 75 back to the PCD 75, so that methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in FIG.18: (a) the user of the PCD 75 is aware of the system detected monitoring travel data associated with an Mf 17 in relation to location and can confirm it. a location or region, as indicated at block 291; (b) monitoring As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as 10 travel data associated with a PCD 75 in relation to the location or geographic region (or a location or region that is in close previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further proximity to or based upon the same location or region), as designed to provide information concerning a capacity of indicated at block 292; (c) causing a notification communiitems situated on the MT 17 that is to travel to the pickup or cation to be initiated to the PCD 75 when the PCD 75 is at or delivery location. As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as 15 is within a predetermined proximity of the location or region, as indicated at block 293; and before, during, or after the previously described, this embodiment 250d can be further forgoing causing step, causing a different notification comdesigned to receive infonnation from the PCD 75 regarding munication to be initiated to the PCD 75 when the MT 17 is at an item that is to be placed on the MT 17 at the location or or within a predefined proximity of the location or region, as dropped off at the location, or both. With respect to the former, the item may be equipped with a human readable code 20 indicated at block 294. The stop location or region can be predetermined or or machine readable code that can be read or scanned and sent dynamically determined while the MT 17 ancl!or the PCD 75 to the system 10. are in motion. The user can selectively predetermine the stop As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as location or region via user preferences. The system 290 can be previously described, tills embodiment 250d can be further designed to receive an identification or characteristic of a 25 designed to give the user a stop location or region or to give a number of stop locations or regions to choose from. The thing to be picked up by the MT 17 at the location, and to system 290 can also be designed to permit the user to enter communicate the thing identification or characteristic to a longitude and latitude values to specify a particular stop locaa communications device, personal or otherwise, associated tion. with the MT 17. The system 290 can be designed to determine a stop locaIn other alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can 30 tion based upon the location of the PCD 75. Techniques for also be designed to communicate a location to the PCD 75 determining the location of the PCD 75 have been described that is dift'erent than the detected location or approximate herein. detected location of the PCD 75 or that is in an area that the Note that the aforementioned steps 293 and 294 can occur PCD 75 is detected to be within or near. For example, if the PCD 75 is detected to be near an already existing scheduled J5 as part of the same communication session or link orin more than one communication transaction. As an example of the stop location for an MT 17, then the PCD 75 may be advised former scenario, a text communication can be generated by of the stop location. An identity of, description of, and/or the system 290 and communicated to a pager or PDA that directions thereto can be communicated to the PCD 75. The indicates (a) that the device is within 10 yards of the stop device user can be given the opportunity to accept or deny a 40 location and (b) that the MT 17 is within 10 minutes of pickup or delivery at the different location. arriving at the stop location. As another example of the fanner The user can even be given the opportunity to select scenario, two telephone numbers associated with a telephone between the determined or the different location. The user could be called, substantially concurrently, by the notification could even be charged a fee or a higher rate for causing the system 10. Further, each could have their own distinctive ring. MT 17 to travel to the device location as opposed to the The notification system 10 can track the location of the different location (the one that may correspond to an already 45 PCD 75 and the MT 17 by using any of the location tracking scheduled stop). techniques that have been previously described. Travel data T. Combined Mobile-Thing-To-Location (MTTL) and associated with the MT 17 can be stored in a table 68e, while Device-To-Location (DTL) Notification Systems and Methtravel data associated with the PCD 75 can be stored ina PCD ods 50 travel data table 68i of database 94 (FIG. SA). Furthermore, the notifications can be triggered using any of the previously Systems (and methods) can be implemented in connection with the notification systems, for example, those described described techniques and user preferences. hereinbefore, including system 10, wherein a notification is In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be communicated to the PCD 75, based upon the proximity of designed to commurricate an identification ofthe i\IT 17 to the the MT 17 to a location or region, and another notification is 55 PCD 75 during one or both of the notification cornnnmicam communicated to the PCD 75, based upon the proximity of tions (blocks 293, 294). Furthermore, the system 290 can be the PCD 75 itself to the same location or region (or a location configured to enable the party associated with the PCD 75 to or region that is in close proximity to or based upon the same accept or deny a pickup or a delivery using the identified MT 17 during the communication session using any of the location or region). Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of such systems (and methods), which will generally be 60 response techniques described previously in this document. denoted by reference numera1290, will be described in detail In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be hereafter. Although not limited to these applications, such designed to enable a party associated with the PCD 75 to systems 290 are particularly useful in connection with transdefine user preferences in connection with the notification portable PCDs 75 that are carried with a mobile person and in communications and to operate in accordance with the user connection with transportation services, like taxicab services, 65 preferences. For example, among other things, the party can that have a number of vehicles and stop locations that can be define the predetermined proximity between the MT 17 and anywhere, as will be clear from the discussion hereafter. the stop location or region for triggering a notification to the Exhibit B
Page 207
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PCD 75 and/or the predetennined proximity between the
72
at block 311; scheduling a notification communication, such
PCD 75 and the stop location or region for triggering a noti~

fication communication tO the PCD 75. 1l1e predetermined proximities can be defined as a point when the MT 17 is at a
as in a call queue in message manager 82 (FIG. 5B), as
denoted at block 312; analyzing traffic flow predicament data associated with a travel path(e.g., a road) to be traveled by the particular location, is within a particular geographical region, 5 . MT 17, as denoted at block 31.3; and rescheduling the notifiM oris within a particular proximity of the stop location in terms cation communication, such as in the call queue of message of timing, distance, or a combination thereof. manager 82 (FIG. SB), based at least in part upon the traffic In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be flow predicament data, as denoted at block 314. As can be designed to provide information concerning a capacity of appreciated by this methodology, the internal scheduling of items situated on the MT 17. TI1is type of information would 10 the notification conununication can be initiated later, or be communicated from the MT 17 to the system 10, directly delayed, or in the alternative, initiated earlier, based upon the or indirectly. influence of heavy or light traffic, adverse or favorable enviM In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be ronmental conditions, etc., so that the systemMdefinedoruserM designed to receive information regarding an item that is defined advance notification is more accurately timed and placed on the MT 17 at the stop location or dropped off of the 15 implemented. As with thls embodiment and the others described in this MT 17 at the stop location, or both. A machine readable code can be disposed on the item and can be read when the item is section, the traffic flow predicament data can be stored in a introduced onto or dropped off of the MT 17. The information traffic flow predicament data table(s) 68j in the database 94 (FIG. SA) and accessed by the message manager 82 (FIG. communicated to the system 10 can be the code or a derivative 20 SB). The traffic flow predicament data can take a variety of thereof. forms, and it can be system-defined, user-defined, or a comIn alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be bination thereof. designed to select the MT 17 from a plurality of MTs 17, As a nonlimiting example, the traffic flow predicament data based upon user-defined or system-defined notification prefcan take the form of time periods during the day correlated to erences. In alternative embodiments, !he system 290 can be 25 a road segment, indicating how long it should take a motor vehicle under normal circumstances to traverse that road segdesigned to receive from the PCD 75 an identification or ment during the different time periods. As one way to accomM characteristic of a thing to be picked up at the stop location. plish this, in a traffic flow predicament data tabfe(s) 68j (FIG. Moreover, the system 290 can optionally be designed to comSA), the following could be a record of fields (or this inforM municate the thing identification or characteristic to a com30 marion could be related and retrieved from several tables or munications device associated with the MT 17. sub-tables): ROAD-SEGMENT-044, TIME-OF-DAY-6-7, In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can TRAVERSAL-TIME-PERIOD. The first of the foregoing employ the ftmctionality described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,101 fields identifies the road segment as number 044, which is for tracking the proximity of the PCD 75 to the location or Main Street in this example. Tbe second field identifies the region and issuing a notification to the PCD 75. U.S. Pat No. 6,360,101, which is incorporated herein by reference, 35 time period of the day, i.e., 6:00 am to 7:00am, and this information is correlated with the road segment 044. The describes a GPSreceiver-equipped mobile communications third field identifies the time period to traverse the segment device, such as a cellular telephone, that determines its cur044 when this type of traffic flow is in existence. rent location and compares the current location ofone or more As a specific example of traffic flow predicament data and target locations. When the device is at or near one of the target locations, then the device annunciates its arrival by generatM 40 how it can be used to effect the tinting of a notification, consider the following. It may take 10 minutes to traverse ing an audible alarm, or displays or transmits a predetcmllncd Main Street at between 6:00am and 7:00am, but it may take arrival message. The target location(s) can be entered manu30 minutes to traverse Main Street between 7:00am and 9:00 ally at the device with the keypad, can be obtained via a am. So, continuing this example, assume that ilie stop locaM positioning receiver, or can be loaded via a server connected 45 tion for the vehlcle is at the end of Main Street, assume that to a communications network the user preferences indicate that the user would like to be U. Notifications Based Upon Traffic Flow Predicament Data notified 10 minutes prior to arrival of the vehicle at the stop The notification system 10 may be designed to take into location, assume that the vehicle has just arrived at the beginaccount traffic flow and anything that can influence traffic ning ofMain Street, and assume that it is 8:30am. With these flow when determining when and if notification communica- so assumptions, the BS manager 41, particularly, the message tions should be initiated. manager 82 (FIG. 5B) can be designed to wait to make the Although not limited to this application; this feature is notification until it is detected that the vehicle is 2h of the way particularly useful when the system 10 is to initiate a notifi through Main Street. However, if the time of day were 6:30 cation when an MT 17 is a predefined proximity in terms of am, then the BS manager 41 can be designed to make the time from a stop location. This predefined proximity can be 55 notification, at once, when it is detected that the vehicle systemMdefined via any suitable programming mechanism or started on Main Street. user~defined via predefined user preferences. This feature is Carrying this example further, the BS manager 41 could be also useful to trigger a notification to a user to enable the user designed to, recognize that Main Street is wet and slick, and to plan for a best transmit route (see thlrd embodiment, heretherefore, initiate five minutes later any notification comrnu after). 60 nication corresponding to any MT 17 tlwt must traverse Main Street (because it will take five minutes longer for the MT 17 1. First Embodiment to traverse Main Street. As a further example of traffic flow predicament data, the In one possible embodiment, among others, the BS mantraffic flow predicament data could include the real time ager 41 can be configured to implement the following algo- 65 detection of an accident, the knowledge of construction work, rithm, as denoted by reference numeral 210a in FIG. 19A: the knowledge of a reduced speed limit due to road work or monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as denoted some other reason on a road segment and its effect on traffic
Exhibit B Page 208
US 7,504,966 B2
73
74
the traffic flow predicament data, and other user preferences, flow (e.g., one of three Janes may be blocked, so it will take if any, as indicated at block 324. 33% longer for a motor vehicle to traverse the road segment, the speed limit is now 25 mph instead of 45 mph, etc.). As one 3. Third Embodiment way to accomplish this, in a traffic flow predicament data table(s) 68j (FIG. SA), the following could be a set of fields Although not limited to tills application, the following that can be related and retrieved: ROAD-SEGJ\.1ENT-044, embodiment is particularly useful in a case where a party TRAFFIC-FLOW-02, TR.A.VERSAL-TIME-PER!OD. The would like to know if and when travel flow is being hindered, first of the aforementioned fields identifies the road segment is acceptable, or is being expedited on a road segment, so that as number 044. The second field identifies Lhe number of 1o the party in a vehlcle can better plan his/her route, for example, enable the party to take an alternative route or, lanes that are open, i.e., ffi'o of three lanes are open for traffic enable the party to take the travel path at issue, if and when flow (there arc other entries that include TRAFFICFLOWtravel flow is acceptable or is sufficiently expedited. 01 and TR..A.FFICFLOW-03), and this information is correIn this possible embodiment, the BS manager 41 is configlated with the road segment 044. The third field identifies the ured to implement the fo1lowing algorithm, as denoted by 15 time period to traverse the segment 044 when this type of reference number 310c and as illustrated in FIG. 19C: anatraffic flow is in existence. lyzing traffic flow predicament data associated with a travel As yet another example of traffic flow predicament data, path to be traveled by a party or MI 17, as indicated at block the traffic flow predicament data could include information 331; initiating a notification conununication session with a conceming the environmental or physical conditions associ 20 PCD 75, based upon the traffic flow predicament data, as indicated at block 332; and during the notification communl ated with a road segment and the effect of such conditions on cation session, providing a message indicating a state oftraf traffic flow. For instance, the environmental conditions could fie flow along the travel path (e.g., there will be a delay and be whether the road segment is exhibited by fog, rain, snow, perhaps to what extent, traffic is flowing at an acceptable level darkness, sun, dryness, slickness, numerous pot holes, etc. 25 and perhaps to what extent, etc.), as indicated at block 333. This infonnation can be obtained via a variety of sources, The BS manager 41 can be configured to store the travel including weather report data from a weather reporting path at issue, which can be, for example, one or more road source, inspection via camera or physical human presence, segments (but could also be waterways, airspace, etc., in the etc., and this information can be entered into the notification case -of other vehicles) and can be configured to receive and system 10, either automatically or manually. As one way to 3o store traffic flow predicament data associated with the travel accomplish this, in a traffic flow predicament data table 68j path. In some embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be designed (FIG. SA), the foJJowing could be a retrievable set of fields: to receive (via entry or selection from available options; data ROAD-SEGMENT-044, ENVIRONMENT-05, TRAcan be stored in user preferences data) user preferences from VERSAL-TJMEPERJOD. The first of the foregoing fields identifies the road segment as number 044. The second field 35 a user, for example but not limited to, an identification of the travel path, a delay acceptance threshold, which is a metric identifies the type of environmental condition of the road that can be used to determine whether the travel path is segment, which in this case is number 05, which corresponds acceptable or unacceptable and which is used by the BS to foggy. Tbe third field identifies the time period to traverse manager 41 to trigger a notification communication, an iden the segment 044 when there is fog. 40 tification of a time of day or time period during the day, etc. As with this embodiment and others to be described in this The BS manager 41 initiates the notification communication section, the travel path to be monitored by the notification based upon, not only the travel flow predicament data, but system 10 can be determined by the notification system 10 or also upon one or more other userdefined preferences. entered/selected by a user. Furthennore, the parameters or More specifically, in regard to the delay acceptance thresh metrics that can be used to trigger a notification communica- 45 old, the delay acceptance threshold can be expressed in any tioncan be systemdefined, useNlefined (in user preferences suitable terms to enable the determination of whether or not a data, such as in table 68b), or a combination thereof. delay is acceptable. For example, the delay acceptance threshold could be expressed in terms of percentages: iftraffic traveling along the path will take 50% longer than usual, then 2. Second Embodiment so initiate the notification communication. As another example, Jn another possible embodiment, among others, the BS the threshold could be expressed in terms of delay time: if manager 41 can be configured to implement the following traffic traveling along the path will be delayed by an additional 10 minutes, then initiate the notification communica algorithm, as denoted by reference numeral 310b and illus tion. As still another example, the threshold could be trated in FIG.19B: monitoring travel data associated with an 55 expressed in terms of speed: if traffic traveling along the path MT 17, as indicated at block 321; determining a notification is 45 mph or greater, then initiate the notification communi time period, as indicated at block 322, by reading a system cation. defined or userdefined time period (in user preferences data); In alternative embodiments, the notification communicaanalyzing traffic flow predicament data associated with a tion session can be inltiated or triggered based upon, not only travel path (e.g., a road) to be traveled by the MT 17 (for 60 traffic flow predicament data, butalsoupononeormoreother example, based upon the current location of the MT 17, the parameters, for example but not limited to, at a predetermined time (e.g., at 5:00pm) or during a time period of the day (e.g., ultimate stop location, and the known travel path or travel path data, such as map data from a mapping system showing between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, after 7:00pm, in the evening, how the MT 17 is expected to travel), as indicated at block etc.). As an example, the BS manager 41 can be designed to 323; and determining when a notiiJcation communication 65 initiate the notification communication at 5:00pm, or in the should be initiated (earlier or later), based upon the notificaalternative, between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, only if and when tion time period, the influence of traffic that is derived from traffic traveling along the path will take 50% longer than
Exhibit B Page 209
US 7,504,966 B2 75
76
tion session including a message requesting a response and a usual. As another example, the BS manager 41 can be travel status report indicating a proximity of the first PCD 75 designed to initiate the notification communication at 5:00 pro, orin the alternative, between 5:00pm and 6:00 pro, only to a location, as indicated at block342; receiving the response if traffic traveling along the path will be delayed by at least 10 from the second PCD 75, as indicated at block 343; and minutes. As yet another example, the BS manager 41 can be communicating the response to the first PCD 75 (the one designed to initiate the notification communication at 5:00 being tracked by the notification system 10), as indicated at pm, or in the alternative, between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, only block 344. if and when traffic flow is at an acceptable rate along the path Note that the travel data in this embodiment, as well as the as determined by the delay acceptance threshold, which can others described herein, can be directly related to the device be system defined or user~defined. 10 75, e.g., data that directly relates to the location of the device In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be 75 itself or can be indirectly related to the device 75, e.g., data designed to determine a location or region of the PCD 75 in that directly relates to the location of an MT that transports or accordance with techniques described previously in this is closely associated with the device 75. Further note that in document (see Response Systems). From this infonnation, the BS manager 41 can be equipped with suitable algorithms 15 this embodiment, as well as the others described herein, although the concepts are described for simplicity in connec for determining the travel path to be traveled by the party or tion with a first device 75 (the tracked device that receives a the PCD75. response) and a second device 75 (the notified device), the The BS manager 41 can determine direction of travel by concepts can be employed in connection with one or more receiving two or more location values from the PCD 75 that are spaced in time. The BS manager 41 can also detennine 20 first devices 75 and one or more second devices, in virtuaJJy any combination thereo direction of travel based upon a known destination ofthePCD 75. From this location and direction information, the BS In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can manager 41 can anticipate travel paths, such as road seg~ be designed to enable a first party associated with the first ments, that will be traversed by the party or Mf 17. PCD 75 (the one being tracked) to select whether or not a As a specific nonlimiting example, assume that a party has 25 response is requested at all during the notification communication session initiated by the system 10 to the second PCD given instructions to the notification system 10 to advise the 75. This can be useful in many circumstances, such as when party of8ny unacceptable road segments when the party starts a delivery vehicle needs a signature in order to drop off a to return home after work at 5:00pm. Further assume that the package, and therefore, the delivery vehicle driver, who is party can take two different routes (which can be communi~ cated to the notification system 10 by the user or detennined 30 associated with the first PCD 75 needs to know whether a party associated with the second PCD 75 will be available at by the notification system 10 based upon a knowledge of the the stop location to sign for the package. A response by the user destination): (a) from the workplace to First Street to Elm party that gets communicated eventually to the driver will Street to 416 Barker Street, or (b) from the workplace to enable the driver to schedule deliveries accordingly. McClelland Avenue to West Morton Street to 416 Barker Street, or (c) from the workplace to McClelland Avenue to 35 In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can Domino Avenue to 416 Barker Street. In this scenario, further be equipped with functionality to determine whether or not a assume that the party and PCD 75 commence onto McClel~ response is necessary from the second PCD 75. For example, land. When the notification system 10 determines the location the notification system 10 could track whether or not deliv~ ofthePCD 75 to be McClelland, then the BS manager41 can eries need a signature in database94 (FIGS. SA and SB), such be designed to select the next one or more road segments that 4 0 as in a package data table(s) 68k. For those requiring a sigcorrespond to the one or more possible routes that have been nature, the system 10 would invoke a requirement for a taken and to analyze those one or more road segments in response. For those not requiring a signature, the system 10 terms of traffic flow predicament data. In the present scenario, would not invoke a requirement for a response. further assmne that the notification system 10 has determined The notification system 10 can be designed to communi~ that West Morton Street is unacceptable based upon the delay 45 cate the status of one or more responses to the first PCD 75. acceptance threshold and the present traffic flow predicament For example, the status could be "Confirmed" for the situa~ data associated with West Morton Street. In this situation, the tion where a response has been received and the notified party BS manager 41 will advise the party via the PCD 41 ofthis is willing to commit to the pickup/delivery, ''Unconfirmed" fact, in which case the party can decide to travel route (c) for the situation where a response has been received and the 50 instead of route (b) to get home. notified party does not want to commit to the pickup/delivery or it is unclear whether the notified party wishes to commit, V. Systems and Methods for Monitoring Travel ofPCDs and and "Waiting" for the situation where a response that has not Communicating Messages Between PCDs been received at all from the notified party. The notification system 10 may be designed to implement In a design where the first PCD 75 is shown the status of systems and methods for monitoring travel ofMTs 17 that are 55 multiple notifications, the system 10 can be designed to PCDs 75 and communicating notifications and responses enable the party associated with the first PCD 75 to make a among the PCDs 75, as more particularly described hereafter. selection of one ofthe entries, such as by touch tone, touching a screen, voice recognition (IVR), etc. The system 10 can be 1. First Embodiment 60 designed to commurticate an indication of the selection to the One embodiment, among others, can be practiced by the selected ones of the PCDs 75. Tbis fean1re would be useful in notification system 10, particularly in the manager 41, and the context of a delivery vehicle 17 so that the driver can involves the following methodology, which is shown in FIG. notifytheprospectivepackagerecipients of the driver's inten~ 20A and denoted by reference numeral 340a: monitoring tion to deliver a package to them. travel data associated with a first PCD 75, as indicated at 65 In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can block 341; causing a notification commurtication session to be designed to receive a message from the first PCD 75 and be initiated to a second PCD 75, the notification commuillca~ communicate the message to the second PCD 75 during the Exhibit B Page 210
US 7,504,966 B2
77
notification communication session. The message can be vir~ tual1y anything, for example, "Can you meet me at Pizza Hut in 20 minutes." In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can be equipped with functionality to enable the party associated with the second PCD 17 (notified party) to select or enter a time for a pickup or delivery at the stop location. The time can then be communicated to the first PCD 17 (tracked party).
78
list of stops for the first PCD 75, based upon the responses, the Jack of responses, or a combination thereof, as indicated at
block 364. Although not limited to this application, the foregoing methodology is particularly useful in connection with package delivery services.
The stop list can be produced at the notification system 10,
such as in the BSCU 40, at the first PCD 75 that is being tracked (see FIG. 26 and accompanying discussion), or at a computer that is communicatively coupled to either. If pro2. Second Embodiment to duced remote from the first PCD 75, then the list can be communicated to the first PCD 75, stored therein, and dis.A..nother embodiment, among others, can be practiced by played, if desired, to enable a party associated with the first the notification system 10, particularly in the manager 41, and PCD 75 to take appropriate delivery/pickup action. involves the following methodology, which is shown in FIG. The stop list can be a list of predetennined stop locations or 20B and denoted by reference numeral 340b: monitoring IS stop numbers, can be street address, longitude/latitude desig~ travel data of a first PCD 75, as denoted at block 351; receivnations, etc. ing a message from the first PCD 75, the message including a In alternative embodiments, functionallty for accepting a request for a response, as denoted at block 352; initiating a reply from the first PCD 75 and communicating the reply to notification communication having the message and a travel the one or more plurality ofPCDs 75 that have responded can status report of the first PCD 75 to a second PCD 75, as 20 be implemented in the BSCU 40 or in the first PCD 75 (which denoted at block 353; receiving the response from the second would push the reply back to the relevant notified PCD(s)). As PCD 75; and communicating the response to the first PCD 75, an example, this would be a useful feature in a case where a as denoted at block 354. first PCD 75 associated with a delivery vehicle wishes to The travel status report can indicate a proximity (in terms confirm or advise a notified PCD 75 or party that the party has of time, distance from, etc.) of the first PCD 75 to a stop 25 been officially placed on a delivery list. Furthermore, a party location, that the first PCD 75 has left a location, that the first can indicate in user preferences in table 68b of database 94 PCD 75 has arrived at a location, that the first PCD 75 is in a (FIG. SA) that the party would like to have a confirmation particular geographic region, etc. reply. The response from the second PCD 75 can indicate anum~ The travel status report can indicate any of a number of her of possibilities, including but not limited to, whether or 30 things, for example but not limited to, a proximity (in terms of not a second party associated with the second PCD 75 is time, distance, or number of stops) of the first PCD 75 to a willing to meet a first party associated with the first PCD 75 at location or region, can indicate that the first PCD 75 has left the stop location, whether or not a second party associated a location, region, or scheduled stop location, etc. with the second PCD 75 is willing to accept responsibility for The notification communication session can be initiated a pickup or delivery at the stop location. 35 when the first PCD 75 is within a predetermined proximity of The stop location can be remote from the locations of the a stop location, region, or a location of the one or more first and second PCD 75s. Tbe second PCD 75 could also be plurality ofPCD 75s, can be initiated when the first PCD 75 located at or in close proximity to the stop location. has left a location, region, or stop location, can be initiated when the plurality ofPCDs are within a prescribed number of In alternative embodiments, first PCD 75 or the notification system 10 can communicate another message during the noti~ 40 stops or distance of the first PCD 75, etc. fication communication session that indicates to the second In alternative embodiments, the BSCU 40, particularly the BS manager 41, can be configured to determine whether or party associated with the secondPCD 75 one or more criteria not a response to a notification communication is necessary for a response lobe effective. For example, the one or more criteria may include one or more ofthe following: a time limit based upon the nature of the delivery/pickup (e.g., a package to respond, a travel distance limit associated with travel of the 45 requiring a signature would like to be delivered, and there~ first PCD 75, a limit based upon the first PCD 75 traveling to fore, a person needs to be at the stop location to sign for the package, a package does not require a signature and therefore a particular location or region, or a limit based upon one or more acceptance responses from other PCD 75s. a party need not be present to deliver the package, business or residential delivery, inside service or outside service, etc.). In alternative embodiments, the one or more criteria can be communicated to the notification system 10 from a suitable 50 When a stop does not require a response, it can be scheduled with the other stops that do require a response. As an example, communications device, such as but not limited to, the first see FIG. 26. PCD 75, and stored in user preference data in user data table The responses from the notified PDC(s) 75 can indicate 68b (FIG. SA). Or, the criteria can be system~defined via (via suitable text messaging, voice commands, depression of suitable programming. 55 keys on a keypad to emit tones, etc.) whether or not a party 3. Third Embodiment associated with a notified PCD 75 is willing to accept respon~ sibility for a pickup or delivery at a stop location or meet a first Yet another embodiment, among others, can be practiced party associated with the firstPCD 75 at the stop location. The by the notification system 10, particularly in the manager 41, stop location can be remote from the locations of the first and and involves the following methodology, which is shown in 60 second PCD 7Ss. FIG. 20C and denoted by reference numeral340c: monitoring Another message can be communicated by the BSCU 40 to travel data associated with a first PCD 75, as indicated at thenotifiedPCD(s)75duringthenotificationcommunication block361; initiating a notification conummication session to that indicates one or more criteria for a response to be effec~ a plurality of PCD 75s, the notification communication tive. TI1e one or more criteria could include, for example but including a message requesting a response, as indicated at 65 not limited to, one or more ofthefollowing: a time limit (FIG. block 362; receiving responses from one or more of the plu~ 25A), a travel distance limit associated with travel of the first rality ofPCDs 75, as indicated at block 363; and producing a PCD 75 (FIG. 25B), a limit based upon the first PCD 75
Exhibit B
Page 211
us 7,504,966 82
79
traveling to a particular location or region (FIG. 25C), or a limit based upon one or more acceptance responses from
80
ofPCD 75s to selector enter a time fora pich:up or delivery at a stop location, and then this information can be communicated to the first PCD 75. 4. Example Implementations of Tracked PCO to Notified PCO Communications FIG. 21 is a graphical illustration of an example of a noti-
other PCD 7Ss (FIG. 2SD).

In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be 5 designed to receive the one or more criteria from a communications device, for example, the first PCD 75. Such criteria can be stored in user preference data.
fication system 10 having a base station control unit 40 moniIn alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be toring travel ofPCDs 75 and capable of communicating noticonfigured to enable a party associated with the first PCD 75 10 fications and responses among the various PCDs 75. A PCD to select whether or not a response is requested of a notified 75 in the fonn ofa person's networkedcomputer75d is shown party during a notification corrununication session.
receiving a notification communication from one of the
In the preferred embodiment, the software architecture tracked PCDs 75a-75c, which asks for a response, i.e., in this associated with the BS manager 41 implements failure states !5 example, the party associated with the tracked PCD 75 at in connection with the request for a response. A failure state issue is attempting to make a reservation at a restaurant havoccurs when a state of a variable has been reached without ing the networked computer 75d. FIG. 22 is a graphical illustration ofpossible ways in which receiving a response back from the notified party. Internally, communications can occur between a tracked PCD 75 and a a failure state causes the system to terminate notification communication attempts and to ensure that a stop associated 20 notified PCD 75. _4$ shown, one embodiment involves indirect communications using the BSCU 40, while the other with the failed co!nmunication attempts is not scheduled on involves direct communications betvveen the PCDs 75. In the the stop list. A failure state can also be shown on a screen or latter case, the functionality that would have been associated othenvise indicated to the operator of the first PCD 75, as is with the BSCU 40 is incorporated in one of the devices 75 or shown in FIGS. -25A through 250. A failure state can be system-defmed or user-defined, and can be stored in table 68b 25 the functionality is distributed across the devices 75. FIG. 23 is a graphical illustration of a possible architecture (FIG. SA) and/or failure state data table 681 (FIG. SA). for implementing the direct communications configuration As illustrated in FIGS. 25A through 250, a set ofnonlim~ bet\Veen a tracked PCD 75 in the form of an in~vehicle navi~ iting examples of failure state variables are as follows: (a) a gation system and one or more other PCOs 75d-75h. The time period variable (FIG. 25A) pertaining to the amotmt of 30 in~vehicle navigation system 75 has functional blocks 425~ time that has elapsed since invocation of the notification; 428 and optional functional blocks 431-433, which can be when the time period variable has expired, it triggers a failure implemented as part of the MT manager 29 or as separate state; (b) a distance variable pertaining to the distance travsoftware routines, as is shown in FIG. 23. The MT manager eled by the tracked first PCD 75 (FIG. 25B) since invocation 29 (also seeFIGS.l and2) is designed to causethenavigation of the notification; when the first PCD 75 has traversed a 35 system 75k to provide a list of locations of interest, si1ch as local restaurants in this example. At present, such technology prescribed distance that is monitored with the distance variis known in the art. The user is permitted to select a listed able, then a failure state can be invoked; (c) a predetermined item, in this case, the XYZ Italian Restaurant has been location variable (FIG. 25C) pertaining to a location to be selected via the user interface buttons that are shown. As traversed by the moving/tracked first PCD 75; in other words, once the PCD 75 has reached this predetermined location, 40 shown, the display indicates that a response is being waited upon. Also, the expected time of arrival (EU\) is shown on the then a failure state will result; and (d) an acceptance variable screen in terms of both time (20 minutes) and distance (12 (FIG. 250) which tracks the number of responses and/or miles). Either or both of the fOregoing ETAs can be commuacceptances associated with notification communications; nicated to the PCO ?Sd,- depending upon the desired design. this is useful in a configuration where a number of parties A PCO 75 in the fonn of a person's networked computer 45 have been invited to visit a particular location (e.g., a restau15d at the XYZ Italian Restaurant is shown receiving a the rant), and there are only a limited number of openings; as an notification communication from the in-vehlcle navigation example, the system can be set to accept the first party to system 75k, which asks for a response, i.e., in this example, respond to the notification and invoke a failure state in conthe party associated with the tracked PCD 75k at issue is nection with all other notifications (which can be communi50 attempting to make a reservation at a restaurant having the cated, if desired, to the other PCOs 75 that responded late). networked computer 75d.
In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be The text content of the message that is sent by PCD 75kto PCD 75d can be entered by the user of the PCD 75d using any designed to communicate an additional message to the plusuitable graphical user interface (GUI) and screen prompts rality of one or more PCDs 75. As an example, this could be 55 and any suitable hardware input devices, such as buttons a description of the MT 17 or of the driver. 441-443. The content is communicated in packetized manner In alternative embodiments, a status of the responses can be with the other content associated with the notification com~ communicated by the BSCU 40 to the first PCD 75. As an munication. example of a possible scheme for indlcating status, the folThe text content could also be pre-stored in the memory lowing text coding cold be employed and could be displayed 60 associated with the PCO 75k and selected by the user using on a display associated with the first PCD 75: "w" for waiting any suitable GUI and screen prompts and user interface butfor a response, "c" for confirmed indicating that a response tons 441-443. was received and delivery/pickup is to occur, and "u" for FIG. 24 is a continuation of the example in FIG. 23 and unconfirmed indicating that a response was received and a shows implementation of response requests and failure states, delivery/pickup is not to occur) 65 both of which have been discussed previously. In alternative embodiments, the BSCU 40 can be designed As illustrated in FIG. 24, the PCO 75d at the XYZ Italian to enable a party associated with one or more of the plurality Restaurant is used to send a response message back to the
Exhibit B Page 212
US 7,504,966 B2
81
in-vehicle navigation system 15k. In this case, the person operatingthe PCD75dcreates amessageindicating receipt of the notification and confirming the reservation at a particular time, i.e., 6:40pm., and communicates this message back to the PCD 15k, so that the party associated with the PCD 15k
82
(OS; for example, an item can be dropped off without signature, an item is waiting outside a building to be picked up and nobody needs to be present to give the item to the pickup vehicle, etc.). The functionality associated with this embodiment, as
knows that the reservation is properly scheduled.
defined at blocks 471-478, can be implemented in the BSCU
Another part of the software architecture associated with 40 and/or the tracked PCD 75c. In this embodiment, it is implemented solely in the PCD 75c, and the route or stop list the PCD 15k is shown at blocks 451 w457. Although not Jimw that is generated and periodically changed by the PCD 75c is ited to this configuration, this functionality in this example is implemented in the MT manager 29 (FIGS. 1 and 2) . .As is 10 periodically communicated to the BSCU 40. Furthermore, in tenns of external controls and user interfacing, the PCD 75c clear, the user of the PCD 75k can indicate that a response should be requested (in user preferences stored in PCD 75k or has, as shown in FIG. 26, a screen for listing stops and the type of stop, a notify button to initiate a notification communi caw otherwise during interaction with PCD 75k). The PCD 75k can also be configured to determine that a response is necestion, a retry button to retry a notification communication, a sary based upon the type of notification communication (e.g., 15 move button to move a cursor on the screen and/or to move a package requiring a signature would like to be delivered, through the stop list, a menu button to move through various menus and submenus, and a cursor movement control with and therefore, a person needs to be at the stop location to sign for the package). arrows in the center, which can be also be used to scroll The software architecture further implements failure states through the listing of stops. in connection with the request for a response. A failure state 20 In terms of internal programming, as shown in blocks occurs when a state of a variable has been reached without 471w474, there is a looping process for creating, determining, receiving a response back from the notified party. Internally, and/or changing the route or stop list, and as illustrated in a failure state causes the system to terminate notification blocks 475-478, there is looping process for determining communication anempts. A failure state can also be shown on whether a response is needed for the stop, based upon whether a screen or othenvise indicated to the operator of the PCD 25 the stop is associated with IS or OS, ruJ.d for determining 75k, as is shown in FIGS. 25A through 25D. A failure state whether a response has in fact been received from those stops that require a response. In this example, the two foregoing can be systemwdefined or userwdefined, and can be stored in table 68b (FIG. SA) ami/or failure state data table 68/ (FIG. processes execute concurrently. SA). In this example, the PCD75ccanbedesignedtoretr:ieveall As illustrated in FIGS. 25A through 250, a set ofnonlimw 30 stops within a particular distance of the PCD 75c (e.g., a 3 mile radius), the location of which is known, as indicated at iting examples of failure state variables are as follows: (a) a blocks 471w472. Then, a list is createdanditerativelyupdated, time period variable (FIG. 25A) pertaining to the amollilt of at blocks 473 and 474. Once a stop is tentatively added to the time that has elapsed since invocation of the notification; when the time period variable has expired, it triggers a failure route or listing of stops, via blocks 471-474, then the looping state in the PCD 75k; (b) a distance variable pertaining to the 35 process associated with blocks 475w478 analyzes the stop distance traveled by the tracked PCD 75k (FIG. 25B) since type to determine if the stop requires a response and if the invocation of the notification; when the PCD 75k has trarequired response has been received. In this example, if a stop is OS or if a stop is IS (requires a response) and the response versed a prescribed distance that is monitored with the dis tance variable, then a failure state can be invoked in the was received, then blocks 473w474 cause the stop to be o:ffiw moving/tracked PCD 75k; (c) a predetermined location vari- 4{l cially added to the stop list. Otherwise, when the stop is IS and able (FlG. 25C) pertaining to a location to be traversed by the no response was received, then the stop is removed per block moving/tracked PCD 75k; in other words, once the PCD 75k 474. Furthermore, system or user preferences can be set so determines that it has reached this predetermined location, that a stop is classified as IS or OS. then a failure state will result; and (d) an acceptance variable FIG. 27 is an illustration showing an embodiment involvw (FIG. 25D) which tracks the number of responses and/or 45 ing a delivery vehicle with tracked PCD 75c that has a prew acceptances associated with notification communications; detenninedroute 505, or stop list, withanumberofpreschedw this is useful in a configuration where a number of parties uled delivery stops, for example, destinations #01 through have been invited to visit a particular location (e.g., a restau#03. In this embodiment, the BS manager41 or PCD 15c has functionality 500 that is designed to cause a notification com. rant), and there are only a limited number of openings; as an example, the system can be set to accept the first party to 50 munication to be initiated to a PCD 15d at a point when the respond to the notification and invoke a failure state in contracked PCD 15c is a predefined proximity, for example, at or nection with all other notifications (which can be communiabout 30 minutes, from a delivery destination. Also, the BS manager 41 is designed so that a failure state will occur if a cated, if desired, to the other PCDs 75 that responded late). response is not received from the PCD 75dwlthin predefined FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment that can be imp lew mented, if desired, in connection with a vehicle having a 55 time period, for example, 20 minutes, of the notification. route-orwstopwlist device 75c (FIG. 21) that determines Furthermore, the driver associated with the tracked PCD 15d whether a response to a notification is needed, based upon is notified of the occurrence of the failure state or confirmaw user preferences, system preferences, and/or the nature/type tion, for example, via suitable text (e.g., "Confirmed" or ''No (e.g., business or residential, inside service or outside service, Response" in the event of a failure state) on a screen associw etc.) of the stop. 60 ated with the PCD 75d, so that the driver associated with the PCD 75c knows whether or not to make the stop at destination In this nonlimiting example, a detennination is made as to whether the stop is associated with (a) inside service (IS; for #03. FIG. 28 is an illustration showing an embodiment ip.volvw example, a signature must be obtained to drop off a package, a person must inspect an item before dropoff, a person must ing a delivery vehicle with tracked PCD 75c that has a prew personally provide an item for pickup, a user has requested 65 determined route 506, or stop list, with a number of preschedw that a response from the user must be received before the user uled delivery stops, for example, destinations #04 through is scheduled for a delivery/pickup, etc.) or (b) outside service #06. In this embodiment, the BS manager 41 or PCD 75c has
Exhibit 8 Page 213
US 7,504,966 B2
83
functionality that is designed to cause a notification commu-
84
the form of an in-vehicle navigation system, so that the driver
As indicated at reference numeral477 in the driver display data 472, the status of response and nonresponses to notifinication to be initiated to a PCD 75 at a point when the tracked PCD 75c is a predefined proximity in terms of distance from cations is monitored and shown to the driver. In this example a delivery destination. Also, the BS manager41 is designed so embodiment, the status is "C" for confirmed for the situation that a failure state will occur if a response is not received from where a response has been received and the notified party is the notified PCD 75 based upon one or more failure state willing to commit to the pick'Up/delivery, is "U" for uncon criteria. Furthermore, the driver associated with the tracked finned for the situation where a response has been received PCD 75d is notified of the occurrence of the fail me state or and the notified party does not want to commit to the pickup/ confirmation, for example, via suitable text (e.g., "Condelivery or it is lmclear whether the notified party wishes to firmed" or "No Response"in the event ofa fuilure state) on a 10 commit, and is "W'' for waiting for the situation where a screen associated with the PCD 75d, which in this case, is in response that has not been received at all from the notified
associated with the PCD 75c knows whether or not to make Preferably, although not necessarily, the BSCU 40, particu particular stops. As shown an the screen, two deliveries have been con 15 larly the BS manager41, is equipped with a suitable graphical user interface (GUI), denoted by referencenumeral46 in FIG. firmed, and the system still awaits a response involving the 3, to enable a party to communicate with theBSCU 40 via the delivery for destination #04, The PCD 75c can be equipped Internet. FIG. 33 shows an example of a possible user inter with suitable programming to enable the driver to scroll face screen that can be generated by the GUI 46 and pushed to tluough and select (e.g., via arrows on menu button and select buttons, as shown) or otherwise enter the deliveries that the 20 the remote communications device via, for example, HTML over the Internet. Other examples of user interface screens to driver intends to make, based upon the confirmation/no-rebe described in paragraphs to follow can also be generated sponse information pertaining to each destination as well as and communicated to a party in thiS manner. the distance infonnation provided to the driver on the screen. As shown in FIG. 33, the screen prompts the party to make This selection or entry, or information indicative thereof, can be communicated from the PCD 75c to the appropriate con 25 a decision as to whether or not the party wishes a response to a notification communication. This screen can be used in firmed PCD, directly or indirectly via the BSCU_40, depend~ connection with the response systems and methods that have ing upon the notification system implementation. In some been described previously in this document. This selection implementations, the selection or entry information is comcan be stored in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users municated only to the BSCU 40 for tracking purposes and is 30 preferences in user data table(s) 68b. not forwarded to the confirmed PCD. FIG. 29 is an illustration of another embodiment involving FIG. 34 shows another example of a possible user interface a delivery vehicle having a PCD 75c, which shows function screen that can be generated by the Gill of FIG. 3 and used in ality at blocks 511S1S that can be programmed into the PCD connection with the response systems (and methods). This 7Sc for updating a stop list based upon whether or not screen can be used separately or in addition to the one ofFIG. responses were received. The software can be designed to J5 33. show confirmed and unconfirmed (no response) stops or to As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from show only confirmed stops, as desired, on the screen of the a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connection PCD 75c. with nonresponses (failure states). These selections can be FIG. 30 is an illustration of an embodiment that can be stored in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferimplemented at the BSCU 40, such as the BS manager 41 40 ences in user data table(s) 6Sb. Reference numerals 605607 (FIGS. 1 and 3) or at the MTCU 15, such as the MT manager illustrate questions relating to when failure states should 29 (FIGS.1 and 3), showing implementation of failure states occur after a notification and response request h~lVe been in connection with responses and nonresponses to notificacommunicated to a notified party, while reference numeral tion communications in the context of a delivery vehicle. As 608 illustrates a selection forenablingthepartyto define what shown at respective blocks S42 and 543 and as described 45 will occur when no response is received by the BSCU 40. An previously, failure states can be user defined and/or system example of a screen for enabling a party to select such options defined. Furthermore, failure states can be defined in anumis shown in FIG. 39. ber of ways, a few examples of which are indicated at blocks Referring now to FIG. 35, FIG. 35 shows another example 544-548. of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the FIG. 31 is an illustration of anotherembodimentthatcan be 50 Gill of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response implemented at the BSCU 40, such as the BS manager 41 systems (and methods). This screen can be used separately or (FIGS. 1 and 3) or at the MfCU 1S, such as the MT manager in addition to those screens of FIGS. 33 and 34. 29 (FIGS.l and 3), showing implementation of failure states As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from in connection with responses and nomesponses to notifica tion communications in the context of a delivery vehicle. 55 a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connection with nonresponses (and occurrence of failure states). These Blocks S61568 represent the high level architecture of the selections can be stored in the database 94 (FJG. SA), such as software ..1\s illustrated, the stop list can be determined and in users preferences in user data table(s) 6Sb. Reference changed dynamically, based upon responses and nonre numeral 608 illustrates a question relating to when a failure spouses. Also, a request for a pickup can be introduced into 60 state should occur after a notification and response request the stop list of scheduled deliveries at any point. have been communicated to a notified party, while reference FIG. 32 is an illustration of an embodiment of route data numeral 609 illustrates a selection for enabling the party to 471 and corresponding driver display data that can be maindefine what will occur when no response is received by the tained and implemented in connection with a delivecy or BSCU 40. An example of a screen for enabling a party to pickup service. The route data 471 can be maintained at the BSCU 40, at the MTCU 1S, or at both. The driver display data 65 select such options is shown in FIG. 39. Note that, in this example, the party can set the system so 472 is displayed to the driver of the delivery/pickup vehicle that a failure state will occur in the event that a notified party 17.
party.
Exhibit B Page 214
US 7,504,966 B2
85
does not respond before the vehicle 17 travels to within a preset number of stops from a scheduled stop location, or
86
in users preferences in user data table(s) 68b. Reference numerals 644-648 illustrate possible options that can be selected by the party. destiTI.c'ltion. FIG. 40 shows an example of another type of computer With reference to FIG. 36, FIG. 36 shows another example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the 5 network message. As shown in FIG. 40, an electronic mail (email) message can be generated and sent by the BSCU 40 GUI of FIG, 3 and used in connection with the response (FIG. 3) over the Internet and used in connection with the systems (and methods). This screen can be used separately or response systems (and methods). in addition to those of FIGS. 3335. As illustrated, a party can be sent an email by the BSCU 40 As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from 10 during a notification communication to indicate impending a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connection arrival of a delivery vehicle at a stop location, such as the with failure states. These selections can be stored in the dataparty's street address. In tills example, the notification com~ base 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data munication, in the form of an email sent over the Internet to table(s) 68b. Reference numerals 621 and 622 illustrate quesfue party by the BSCU 40 asks the party to identifY when the tions relating to when failure states should occur after a noti15 party is available for the delivery. The information input by fication and response request have been communicated to a the party can be utilized to fine tune the scheduling of the notified party. delivery vehicle 17. FIG. 37 shows another example of a possible user interface There are many possible variations of this concept. For screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in example, the email could provide a plurality ofoptions, one of connection with the response systems (and methods). This 20 which can be selected by the party. Furthermore, there could screen can be used separately or in addition to those ofFIGS. be different charges associated with different delivery time 33-36_ options (e.g., more expensive options for faster service, etc.). As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from Further note that this information from the notified party a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in coruiection can be communicated to a PCD 75cassociated with thedeliv~ with failure states. These selections can be stored in the data- 25 ery vehicle 17 and correlated with other scheduling infOrmabase 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data tion at the PCD 75c. table(s) 68b. Reference numeral631 illustrates a marker that W. Notification Failure Detection Systems (and Methods) can be moved across a map of streets, for example, via a that Cause Implementation of One or More Tasks when a mouse, and used to select one or more locations on the map pertaining to when a failure state should occur for nonrespon- 30 Scheduled Notification Communication is Not Received A notification failure detection system can be implemented siveness on the part of the notified party. The marked in connection with a PCD 75 (FIG.1) that is scheduled to be location(s) pertains to the moving vehicle 17 that is headed notified that will cause one or more tasks to be performed in for the stop location, or destination, which, in this example, is the event that such PCD 75 does not in fact receive a sched1010 Oak Lane. uled notification communication. U.S. Pat. No. 6,618,668, which is incorporated herein by 35 As an example of an application of the notification failure reference, describes a mapping system for a notification sysdetection syste.rn., among numerous possible scenarios, contem that can be used to implement the input-via-map funcsider an implementation where a service provider (e.g., maid, tionality illustrated in FIG. 37 (as well as FIG. 38). pool maintenance worker, lawn care worker, etc.) is schedFIG. 38 shows another example ofa possible user interface 40 u1ed to provide service at a residential home, and the service screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in provider is to initiate a notification communication to a PCD connection with the response systems (and methods). This 75 at the house. A notification failure detection system situscreen can be used separately or in addition to those ofFIGS. ated in or communicatively coupled to the PCD 75 can be 33-37. designed to monitor for the incoming notification communiAs shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from 45 cation. If one does not occur as scheduled, then the notificaa party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connection tion failure detection system can be designed to perform one with failure states. These selections can be stored in the dataor more tasks, for instance, communicating with another serbase 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data vice provider to request service from the another instead, ta ble(s) 68b. Reference numeral632 illustrntes a circle perimcol,lllllunicating with the home owner to advise the home eter that can be moved, expanded in size, and/or reduced in so owner of the failure state, communicating with the service size in relation to the map of streets, for example, via a mouse, provider office, communicating with a security company that and used to select a geograplric region on the map pertaining can check on the service provider, or communicating with to when a failure state should occur for nonresponsiveness on another party or system, etc. the part of the notified party. The marked area(s) pertains to As another example of an application, among numerous the moving vehicle 17 that is headed for the stop location, or 55 possible scenarios, consider an implementation where a destination, which, in this example, is 1010 Oak Lane. home owner, after completing work each day, is scheduled to Fl G. 39 shows another example ofa possible user interface provide a notification communlcation to a PCD 75 at his/her screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in home within a prescribed time period, indicating impending connection with the response systems (and methods). This arrival. When the notification commullication is received durscreen can be used separately or in addition to those ofFIGS. 60 ing the prescribed time period, then the notification failure 33-38. detection system can be designed to do nothing or perform As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from one or more steps, such as adjust the air conditioning or heater down or up. However, when the notification conununication a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connection with fallure states. This screen enables a party to define what is not received during the prescribed time period, then the will occur in the event of occurrence of a failure state in 65 notification failure detection system can be designed to perform one or more tasks, such as turn on light switches (beconnection with nonresponsiveness by a notified party. These selections can be stored in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as cause it will be dark when the home owner approaches since
Exhibit B Page 215
US 7,504,966 B2
87
the home owner will be late). When the notification communication is received during the prescribed time period, then the notification failure detection system can be designed to do nothing or perform one or more steps. Moreover, when the notification communication is not received during the prescribed time period, then the notification failure detection
88
a semiconductor based microprocessor (in the fonn of a microchip or chip set), a macroprocessor, or generally any device for executing software instructions. Examples of suitable commercially available microprocessors are as follows: a PA-RISC series microprocessor from Hewlett-Packard Company, an 80x86 or Pentium series microprocessor from system can be designed to perform one or more tasks, such as Intel Corporation, a PowerPC microprocessor from IBM, a Spare microprocessor from Sun Microsystems, Inc, or a communicate with another fire or police station. 68xxx series microprocessor from the Motorola Corporation. As yet another example of an application, among numerThe memory 714 can include any one or combination of ous possible scenarios, consider an implementation where the 10 volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory notification failure detection system is designed to monitor a (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)) and nonvolafire or security alarm system associated with a facility and to tile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, CDROM, determine whether a notification communication is received etc.). Moreover, the memory 714 may incorporate electronic, from a fire or police station within a prescribed time period after the alarm is triggered. When the alarm gets triggered and 15 magnetic, optical, and/or other types of storage media. Note that the memory 714 can have a distributed architecture, no notification communication is received indicating that the where various components are situated remote from one fire or police department is on their way, then the notification another, but can be accessed by the processor 712. failure detection system can be designed to contact another The software in memory 714 may include one or more party, such as the owner, another fire department, another 20 separate programs, each of which comprises an ordered listpolice department, etc. As still another example of an application, among numering of executable instructions for implementing logical functions. In the example of FIG. 41, the software in the memory ous possible scenarios, the notification failure detection system can he implemented in connection with cargo ships, 714 includes notification failure detection software 710 and a tankers, or other ships. An incoming vessel to a harbor can be suitable operating system (0/S) 722. A nonexhaustive list of scheduled to send a notification communication (which can 25 examples of suitable commercially available operating systems 722 is as follows: (a) a Windows operating system include the ship identity and/or other particulars pertaining to available from Microsoft Corporation; (b) a Netware operatthe ship and/or its cargo) to the harbor master (which typically ing system available from Novell, Inc.; (c) a Macintosh oper~ determines when the vessel will dock and sends out tug boats) when the incoming vessel is near and ready to dock. The ating system available from Apple Computer, Inc.; (e) a notification failure detection system can be designed to con- 30 UNIX operating system, which is available for purchase from tact the coast guard or other security group if a ship is many vendors, such as the Hewlett-Packard Company, Sun Microsystems, Inc., and AT&T Corporation; (d) a LINUX approaching and no notification communication is received operating system, which is freeware that is readily available after the ship has come within a predefined proximity of 1he harbor or dock location. ln an alternative embodiment, the on the Internet; (e) a run time Vxworks operating system from notification failure detection system can be designed to con- 35 WindRiver Systems, Inc.; pr(f) an appliance-based operating tact providers of services (unloaders, customs personnel, system, such as that implemented in handheld computers or crane operators, truck drivers, etc.) that were intending to personal data assistants (PDAs) (e.g., PalmOS available from Palm Computing, lnc., and Windows CE available from meet the ship at the dock at a prescribed time or time period, so that the service providers can cancel their trips to the dock Microsoft Corporation). The operating system 722 essen40 tially controls the execution of other computer programs, and/or take other remedial actions. such as the notification failure detection software 710, and The notification failure detection system can he implemented in software (e.g., firmware), hardware, or a combinaprovides scheduling, input-output control, file and data management, memory management, and communication control tion thereof In the currently contemplated best mode, the notification failure detection system is implemented with a and related services. computer-based system that is a combination ofhardware and 45 The notification failure detection software 710 is a source program, executable program (object code), script, or any software ..An example of a general purpose computer that can other entity comprising a set ofinstructions to be performed. implement the notification failure detection system is shown in FIG. 41. ln FIG. 41, the notification failure detection sysWhen a source program, then the program needs to be transtem is denoted by reference numeral 701. lated via a compiler, assembler, interpreter, or the like, which Generally, in terms of hardware architecture, as shown in so may or may not be included within the memory 714, so as to FIG. 41, the computer-based system 701 includes a processor operate properly in connection with the 0/S 722. Further712, memory 714, and one or more input and/or output (l/0) more, the notification failure detection software 710 can be devices 716 (or peripherals) that are communicatively written as (a) an object oriented programming language, coupled via a local interface 718. The local interface 718 can which has classes of data and methods, or (b) a procedure be, for example but not limited to, one or more buses or other 55 programming language, which has routines, subroutines, andlor functions, for example but not limited to, C, C++, wired or wireless connections, as is known in the art. The local interface 18 may have additional elements, which are Pascal, Basic, Fortran, Cobol, Perl, Java, and Ada. omitted for simplicity, such as controllers, buffers (caches), The optional 1/0 devices 716 may include input devices, drivers, repeaters, and receivers, to enable communications. for example but not limited to, a keyboard, mouse, scanner, Further, the local interface may include address, control, and/ 60 microphone, etc. Furthermore, the J/0 devices 716 may also or data connections to enable appropriate communications include output devices, for example but not limited to, a among the aforementioned components. printer, display, etc. Finally, the I/0 devices 716 may further The processor 712 is a hardware device for executing softinclude devices that communicate both inputs and outputs, ware, particularly that stored in memory 714. The processor for instance but not limited to, a modulator/demodulator (mo712 can be any custom made or commercially available pro- 65 dem; for accessing another device, system, or network), a cessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an auxiliary procesradio frequency (RF) or other transceiver, a telephonic intersor among several processors associated with the system 701, face, a bridge, a router, etc.
Exhibit B Page 216
US 7,504,966 B2
89
90
If the computer-based notification failure detection system be any of a number of things, for example, a caBer's telephone 711 is a PC, workstation, or the like, the software in the number, which can be compared with an incoming telephone memory 714 may further include a basic input output system caller 1D to determine if there is a match. For other examples, (BIOS) (omitted for simplicity). The BIOS is a set of essential see the section in this document relating to secure notification software routines that initialize and test hardware at startup, messaging systems and methods. start the 0/S 722, and support the transfer of data among the X. Other Variations and Modifications hardware devices. The BIOS is stored in ROM so that the In concluding the detailed description, it should he noted BIOS can be executed when the system 701 is activated. that the terminology "preferred embodiment'' herein means When the system 701 is in operation, the processor 712 is configured to execute software stored within the memory 10 the one example embodiment currently believed by the inventor(s) to be the best embodiment of a plurality of possible 714, to communicate data to and from the memory 714, and to embodiments. Moreover, it will be obvious to those skllled in generally control operations of the computer 711 pursuant to the art that many variations and modifications may be made to the software, The notification failure detection software 710 the preferred embodlment(s) without substantially departing and the 0/S 722, in whole or in part, but typically the latter, are read by the processor 712, perhaps buffered within the 15 from the principles of the present invention. All such varia tions and modifications are intended to be included herein processor 712, and then executed. within the teachings of the present invention in this document The notification failure detection software 710 (as well as and to be protected by the scope of the following claims. A any other software that is described in this document), as is few examples of possible variations and/or modifications are shown in FIG. 41, can be stored on any computer readable medium for transportation or use by or in connection with 20 set forth hereafter. With respect to variations, note that although not specificomputer related systems. In the context of this document, a cally described for simplicity, any combination ofthe various computer readable medium is an electronic, magnetic, opti systems/methods that have been described under headings cal, or other physical device or means that can contain or store above may be employed in connection with a notification a computer program for use by or in connection with a com system. For example, use of authentication data for secure puter related system or method. In the context of this docu 25 notification messaging can be employed in connection with ment, a "computerreadable medium" can be any means that one of the versions of the response system. can store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program As another example of a variation, it is possible to imple for use by or in connection with the instruction execution ment the systems and methods of this patent application in system, apparatus, or device. The computer readable medium can be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, mag~ 30 conneCtion with notification systems where notifications are made from the moving thing itself (those systems that do not netic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor utilize a BSCU 40 to implement the notifications). Essensystem, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. tially, the functions associated with the BSCU 40 are impleIn an alternative embodiment, where the notification fail mented in the tracked MT 17. One such system is described in ure detection system 701 implemented in hardware, the noti fication failure detection system can be implemented with any 35 U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,444, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. or a combination of the following technologies, which are As another example of a variation, MTCU 15 and/or the each well known in the art: a discrete logic circuit(s) having BSCU 40 can be implemented within a single computer sys. logic gates for implementing logic functions upon data sigtem, across a plurality of computers that are communicatively nals, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) having appropriate combinational logic gates, a programmable gate 40 coupled, or within a computer system having a distributed architecture. array(s) (PGA), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), etc. As another example of a variation, the notification system i\n example of a possible architecture, among others, of the can be one that notifies a party or PCD 75 after an MT 17 notification failure detection software 710, is shown in FIG. leaves or while an MT 17 is located at a location, as opposed 42. As illustrated by way of flow chart in FIG. 42, the notification failure detection software 710 is designed to perform 45 to a notification system that notifies a party or PCD 75 in advance of arrival of the MT 17 at the location, as with the the fOllowing steps: storing information in memory 714 per notification system 10 described herein. taining to timing (e.g., a time of day, time period, etc.) assoAs another example of a variation, the BS manager 41 can ciated with the scheduled notification communication, as be designed to cause the notification system 10 to notify the indicated at block 731; determining that the scheduled noti fication communication failure has occurred, based upon the 50 user based upon a arrival time and/or departure time data in a schedule or route of one or more stops associated with the MT timing information, as indicated at block 732; and causing 17, as opposed to basing the notifications on real time monione or more tasks to be perfonned using I/0 dev:ice(s) 716 toring of the location of the Mf 17. and/or using PCD 75 based upon the scheduled notification As another example of a variation, the BS manager 41 can commlmication failure, as indicated at block 733. The tasks can include, for example but not limited to, initiation of voice 55 be designed to cause the notification system 10 to notifY the user when the MT' s schedule has been changed or the MT' s and/or data communications to other parties or systems, stop at a location has been cancelled, as opposed to waiting on actuation or adjustment of switches or transducers, etc. tracking information to determine delay in arrival or depar. Note that failure in the context of the notification failure hue of the Mf 17. This information could be input manually detection system 701 can be defined as failing to receive a notification communication at a scheduled time or time 60 by a person or it could come from another computer system. The software associated with the BS manager 41 could also period, failing to receive a notification communication when be configured to enable a user to configure the system so that the system 701 knows oris advised that the system 701 should the user is notified upon a change and/or cancellation. have based upon the MT 17 reaching a location or region or distance from the stop location, or as failing to receive proper As another example of a variation, the notification system authentication indicia (which can be stored, accessed, and 65 (as well as the inventions claimed herein) can be employed in analyzed in memory 714) during the notification communi~ connection with an amusement park ride, for instance, a roller cation session. The authentication indicia, or information, can coaster, water vehicle, etc. PCDs 75 can be handed out to
Exhibit B
Page 217
US 7,504,966 B2
91
prospective passengers of the ride, and when appropriate, one
92
monitoring travel data associated with the MT; initiating a notification communication to a personal com munications device associated with a party, when appropriate, based upon the travel data; receiving a response communication from the party's personal communications device; and based upon the response, monitoring a different MT. 3. A method for communications in connection with a computer.based notification system that tracks travel data associated with a mobile thing (MT), comprising: monitoring travel data associated with the Mf; initiating a notification communication to a personal com munications device associated with a party, when appro priate, based upon a proximity of the MT to a stop location and a predefined proximity parameter; receiving a response communication from the party's per sonal communications device; and based upon the response, changing the proximity param eter. 4, A method for communications in connection with a computer-based notification system that tracks travel data associated with a mobile thing (MT), comprising: monitoring travel data associated with the MT; initiating a notification communication to a personal communications device associated with a party, when appro priate, based upon the travel data and a proximity of the MT to a stop location; receiving a response communication from the party's per sonal communications device; and based upon the response, initiating a future notification communication to a different stop location, 5. A method for communications in connection with a computer.ba'led notification system that tracks travel data associated with a mobile thing (MT), comprising: monitoring travel data associated with the MT; initiating a notification communication to a personal communications device associated with a party using a first predefined communication method, when appropriate, based upon the travel data; receiving a response communication from the party's personal communications device; and based upon the response, initiating a future notification communication using a second communication method that is different than the first communication method.
or more of the devices 75 can be notified to alert one or more

prospective passengers their departure time (or arrival time of their pickup mobile vehicle) is near. Any suitable fonn of tracking can be utilized. For example, a passenger wait list or queue can be maintained and tracked (which leads to an
indirect way of monitoring the mobile vehicles).

As another example of a variation, the notification system (as well as the inventions claimed herein) can be employed in connection with electronic tags on assets (e.g., packages, 10 h1ggage, containers, etc.) that are being warehoused or shipped to notify a party concerning the travel status of such assets. Typically, an electronic tag has a controller, a transceiver controlled by the controller, and a memory that is controlled by the controller and that stores an identification 15 that can be communicated by the transceiver. U.S. Pat. No. 6,144,301, which i!l incorporated by reference, describes an example of a tag and U.S. Pat. No. 5,774,876, which is incor porated herein by reference in its entirety, describes a system for monitoring assets with electronic tags. The BS manager 20 41 can be designed to communicate with the operations cen ter 13 and/or the computer 14, both described in the '876 patent, to track the assets and make notifications pertaining to the assets. However, note that any design of electronic tag can be utilized. 25 U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,408,108 and 6,211,781, which are both also incorporated by reference, disclose systems that utilize tags to track articles. A notification system (and the systems/ methods claimed herein) can be implemented in the context of these tag systems. As an example, notification communi 30 cations can be initiated from computer 118 in these patents. The invention claimed is: 1. A method Or communications in connection with a computer-based notification system that tracks travel data associated with a mobile tiling (MT), comprising: 35 monitoring travel data associated with the MT; initiating a notification communication to a personal communications device associated with a party, when appro priate, based upon the travel data; receiving a response communication from the party's per 40 sana] communications device; and based upon the response, initiating one or more future notification communications to one or more different parties. 2. A method fOr communications in connection with a 45 computer-based notification system that tracks travel data associated with a mobile thing (Mr), comprising;
Exhibit B Page 218
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

NOTICE OF ASSIGNMENT TO UNITED STATES JUDGES _ _ _ _.::_P-"erc::c.~_y::.:A=n=de"-'r-=-so'-'n'------- and the assigned
This case has been assigned to District Judge Magistrate Judge is Ralph ZaretSky
The case number on all documents filed with the Court should read as follows:
2:13CV6649 PA RZx
Pursuant to General Order 05-07 of the United States District Court for the Central District of California, the Magistrate Judge has been designated to hear discovery related motions. All discovery related motions should be noticed on the calendar of the Magistrate Judge.
Clerk, U. S. District Court
September II, 2013 Date
By J.Prado Deputy Clerk
NOTICE TO COUNSEL
A copy of this notice must be served with the summons and complaint on all defendants (if a removal action is filed, a copy of this notice must be served on all plaintiffs).
Subsequent documents must be ftled at the following location:
IE] Western Division

312 N. Spring Street, G-8 Los Angeles, CA 90012
Southern Division 411 West Fourth St., Ste 1053 Santa Ana, CA 9270 I
Eastern Division 3470 Twelfth Street, Room 134 Riverside, CA 9250 I
Failure to ftle at the proper location will result in your documents being returned to you.
NOTICE OF ASSIGNMENT TO UNITED STATES JUDGES
CV-18 (08/13)
Name & Address: Matt Olavi (SBN 265945) Brian J. Dunne (SBN 275689) OLA VI DUNNE LLP 800 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 320 Los Angeles, CA, 90017 Telephone: 213-516-7900
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA
ECLIPSE IP LLC, a Florida Limited Liability Company

PLAINTIFF(S)
CASE NUMBER
v.
SOUTHWEST AIRLINES, CO., a Texas Corporation
CV13 - 6649 VM~1 ~

SUMMONS
DEFENDANT(S).
TO:
DEFENDANT(S): A lawsuit has been filed against you.
Within 21 days after service of this summons on you (not counting the day you received it), you must serve on the plaintiff an answer to the attached 1!1'complaint D amended complaint D counterclaim D cross-claim or a motion under Rule 12 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The answer , whose address is or motion must be served on the plaintiff's attorney, Matt Olavi Olavi Dunne LLP, 800 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 320, Los Angeles, CA, 90017 . If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. You also must file your answer or motion with the court.
SEP 1 l 2013
Dated:-----------
[Use 60 days if the defendant is the United States or a United States agency, or is an officer or employee of the United States. Allowed 60 days by Rute 12 (a)(3JI
CVD1A (10111
SUMMONS
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT, CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 224 of 225 Page ID #:232 CIVIL COVER SHEET I. (a) PLAINTIFFS ( Check box if you are representing yourself
ECLIPSE IP LLC, a Florida Limited Liability Company
0 )
DEFENDANTS
{Check box if you are represe~g yciifse!f
tj )
SOUTHWEST AIRLINES, CO., a Texas Corporation
(b) Attorneys (Firm Name, Address and Telephone Number. If you are representing yourself, provide same.)
Matt Olavi (SBN 265945), Brian J. Dunne (SBN 275689} Olavi Dunne LLP BOO Wilshire Blvd, Suite 320, Los Angeles, CA, 90017 Telephone: 213-516-7900; facsimile: 213-516-7910
(b) Attorneys (Firm Name, Address and Telephone Number. If you are representing yourself, provide same.)
II. BASIS OF JURISDICTION (Place an Xin one box only.)
Ill. CITIZENSHIP OF PRINCIPAL PARTIES-For Diversity Cases Only

(Place an X in one box for plaintiff and one for defendant)
PTF
0
D
1. U.S. Government Plaintiff 2. U.S. Government

Defendant
18]3. Federal Question (U.S.

Government Not a Party)
Citizen ofThis State Citizen of Another State
DEF
1 2
1 Incorporated or Principal Place of Business in this State 2 Incorporated and Principal Place of Business in Another State Foreign Nation
PTF
DEF
4
4. Diversity (Indicate Citizenship

of Parties in Item Ill)
Citizen or Subject of a Foreign Country
IV. ORIGIN (Place an X 1n one box only.)

lV1 1. Original ~ Proceeding
O 2. Removed from
State Court
D 3. Remanded from D 4. Reinstated or Appellate Court Reopened

18]
Yes
5. Trans erred from Another
District (Specify)
6. MUlti-
District litigation
V. REQUESTED IN COMPLAINT:
JURY DEMAND:
No
(Check "Yes" only if demanded in complaint.) MONEY DEMANDED IN COMPLAINT: $ TBD
CLASS ACTION under F.R.Cv.P. 23:

28 U.S.C. 1331 and 1338(a)
Yes
18] No
18]
VI, CAUSE OF ACTION (Cite the U.S. Civil Statute under which you are filing and write a brief statement of cause. Do not cite jurisdictional statutes unless diversity.)
VII. NATURE OF SUIT (Place an X in one box only).

OTHER STATUTES CONTRACT REAl PROPERTY ONT. IMMIGRATION
PRISONER PETITIONS
PROPERTY RIGHTS
D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D
375 False Claims Act 400 State Reapportionment 410 Antitrust 430 Banks and Banking 450 Commerce/ICC Rates/Etc. 460 Deportation 470 Racketeer lnfluenced & Corrupt Org. 480 Consumer Credit 490 Cable/Sat TV 850 Securities/Commodities/Exchange 890 Other Statutory Actions 891 Agricultural Acts 893 Environmental Matters 895 Freedom of Info.
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 D
0
110 Insurance 120Marine 130MillerAct 140 Negotiable Instrument 150 Recovery of Overpayment & Enforcement of Judgment 151 Medicare Act 152 Recovery of Defaulted Student Loan (Exd. Vet.) 153 Recovery of Overpayment of Vet. Benefits 160 Stockholders' Suits 1900ther Contract 195 Contract Product Liability 196 Franchise
0 0 0
D
240 Torts to Land 245 Tort Product Liability 290 All Other Real Property
TORTS
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
462 Naturalization Application 465 Other Immigration Actions
D 0
Habeas Corpus:
463 Alien Detainee 510 Motions to Vacate Sentence 530 General 535 Death Penalty
Other:
D D
820 Copyrights
!B] 830 Patent

840 Trademark
TORTS
370 Other Fraud
0
D
PERSONAL INJURY
310 Airplane 315 Airplane Product Liability 320 Assault, Libel & Slander 330 Fed. Employers' Liability 340 Marine 345 Marine Product Liability 350 Motor Vehicle 355 Motor Vehicle Product Liability 360 Other Personal Injury 362 Personal InjuryMed Malpratice 365 Personal InjuryProduct Liability 367 Health Care/ Pharmaceutical Personal Injury Product Liability 368 Asbestos ~;~~~nal J.nju.ry
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
D
0 371 Truth in Lending 0 380 Other Personal Property Damage 0 D 385 Property Damage
Product Liability
BANKRUPTCY
540 Mandamus/Other 550 Civil Rights 555 Prison Condition 560 Civil Detainee Conditions of Confinement 625 Drug Related SeizureofProperty21 USC881 690 Other
LABOR
0 0 0 0 0 0 0
SOCIAL SECURITY 861 HIA (1395ff) 862 Black Lung (923) 863 DIWC/DIWW (40S (g)) 864 551D Title XVI 865 RSI (405 (g))
FEDERAl TAX SUITS
FORFEITURE/PENALTY
422 Appeal28
870 Taxes (U.S. Plaintiff or Defendant} 871 IRS-Third Party 26 USC 7609
usc 158
423 Withdrawal 28
usc 157 CIVIL RIGHTS

440 Other Civil Rights 441 Voting 442 Employment 443 Housing/ Accomodations 445 American with DisabilitiesEmployment 446 American with Disabilities-Other 448 Education
0
0
710 Fair Labor Standards
Act
Act
896 Arbitration 899 Admin. Procedures Act/Review of Appeal of Agency Decision 950 Constitutionality of State Statutes
0
D
720 Labor/Mgmt. Relations 740 Railway labor Act 751 Family and Medical Leave Act 790 Other Labor Litigation 791 Employee Ret. Inc. Security Act
REAL PROPERTY
0
D
D 0 D
210Land Condemnation 220 Foreclosure 230 Rent Lease & Eiectment
O O
D
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY: Case Number:
GV13=6649
CIVIL COVER SHEET
Page 1 of2
AFTER COMPLETING PAGE 1 OF FORM CV-71, COMPLETE THE INFORMATION REQUESTED ON PAGE 2. CV-71102/13)
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT, CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA
CIVIL COVER SHEET
Vlll{a}. IDENTICAL CASES: Has this action been previously filed in this court and dismissed, remanded or closed?
If yes, list case number{s):
[81 NO
YES
Vlll(b). RELATED CASES: Have any cases been previously filed in this court that are related to the present case?
If yes, list case number(s):
[81 NO
YES
Civil cases are deemed related if a previously filed case and the present case:
(Check all boxes that apply)
A. Arise from the same or closely related transactions, happenings, or events; or B. Call for determination of the same or substantially related or similar questions of law and fact; or C. For other reasons would entail substantial duplication of labor if heard by different judges; or D. Involve the same patent, trademark or copyright and one of the factors identified above in a, b or c also is present.
0 0 0
IX. VENUE: (When completing the following information, use an additional sheet if necessary.)
(a} List the County in this District; California County outside of this District; State if other than California; or Foreign Country, in which EACH named plaintiff resides.
Check here if the government, its agencies or employees is a named plaintiff. If this box is checked, go to item (b).
California County outside of this District; State, if other than California; or Foreign Countrv Eclipse !P LLC- Palm Beach County, Florida
County in this District:*
(b) List the County in this District; California County outside of this District; State if other than California; or Foreign Country, in which EACH named defendant resides.
Check here if the government, its agencies or employees is a named defendant. lf this box is checked, go to item (c).
California County outside of this District; State, if Other than California; or Foreign Countrv
County in this District:* Southwest Airlines, Co.- Los Angeles
(c) List the County in this District; California County outside of this District; State if other than California; or Foreign Country, in which EACH claim arose. NOTE: In land condemnation cases, use the location of the tract of land involved.
County in this District:* Los Angeles Californic County outside of this District; Stcte, if other than California; or Foreign Countrv
* Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardmo, R1vers1de, Ventura, Santa Barbara, or San Lu1s Ob1spo Count1es
Note: In land condemnation cases, use the location of the tract of land involved Notice to Counsel/Parties: The CV-71 (J$-44) Civil Cover Sheet end the information contained herein neither replace nor supplement the filing and service of pleadings or other pcpers cs required by Jaw. This form, cpproved by the Judicial Conference of the United States in September 1974, is required pursuant to Loccl Rule 3-1 is not filed but is used by the Clerk of the Court for the purpose of statistics, venue and initiating the civil docket sheet. (For more detailed instructions, see separate instructions sheet). Key to Statistical codes relating to Social Security Cases: Nature of Suit Code Abbreviation Substantive Statement of Cause of Action All claims for heclth insurance benefits (Medicare} under Title 18, Part A, ofthe Social Security Act, as amended. Also, 861 HIA include claims by hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, etc., for certification as providers of services under the program.
142 U.S.C. 1935FF(b)) 862 BL
All claims for "Black Lung" benefits under Title 4, Part B, of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. (30 U.S.C,
923)
863
DIWC
All claims filed by insured workers for disability insurance benefits under Title 2 of the Social Security Act, as amended; plus all clcims filed for child's insurance benefits based on disability. (42 U.S.C. 405 (g)) All clcims filed for widows or widowers insurance benefits based on disability under Title 2 of the Social Security Act, as amended. (42 U.S.C. 405 (g)) All claims for supplemental security income payments based upon disability filed under Title 16 of the Social Security Act, as amended. All claims for retirement (old age) and survivors benefits under Title 2 of the Social Security Act, as amended.
(42
863
DIWW
864 865
5510 RSI
u.s.c. 405 (g))
CV-71 (02/13)
CIVIL COVER SHEET
Page 2of2

Eclipse IP v. Southwest Airlines

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Eclipse IP v. Southwest Airlines

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Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 1 of 225 Page ID #:9

CLERK, U.S. DISTAICTCOURT

t Ual ~ :_ 664 12Jt(\t~) ~OMPLAINT E02

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO., a Texas Corporation,

) ) TRIAL BY JURY DEMANDED ) ) ) ) )

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 2 of 225 Page ID #:10

PARTIES AND PATENTS

Eclipse is a company organized under the laws of Florida and having

the laws of Texas.

On information and belief, Southwest does regular business in this

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 3 of 225 Page ID #:11

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

This Court has personal jurisdiction over Southwest because it has

Venue is proper in this District under 28 U.S.C. 139l(b) and (c)

On information and belief, Southwest is an airline that offers domestic

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 4 of 225 Page ID #:12

Eclipse reiterates and reincorporates the allegations set forth in

paragraphs 1 through 14 above as if fully set forth herein.

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 5 of 225 Page ID #:13

Southwest owns, uses, deploys, and/or operates at least one

Eclipse reiterates and reincorporates the allegations set forth in

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 6 of 225 Page ID #:14

Additionally and/or in the alternative, on information and belief,

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 7 of 225 Page ID #:15

On information and belief, Southwest has had knowledge of the '716

Eclipse reiterates and reincorporates the allegations set forth in

paragraphs 1 through 26 above as if fully set forth herein.

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 8 of 225 Page ID #:16

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 9 of 225 Page ID #:17

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 10 of 225 Page ID #:18

On information and belief, Southwest's aforesaid infringing activity

it, granting the following relief:

Eclipse Patents; 2. A permanent injunction against Southwest, its respective officers,

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 11 of 225 Page ID #:19

An award of damages adequate to compensate Eclipse for the

A reasonable royalty for Southwest's use ofEclipse's patented

technology, as alleged herein;

An award to Eclipse of all remedies available under 35 U.S.C. 284

OLAVI DUNNE LLP

Ill Ill Ill

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 12 of 225 Page ID #:20

DATED: September 11, 2013

OLAVI DUNNE LLP

By:....:/~--/-.<_~_..:...'------Matt Olavi Brian J. Dunne Attorneys for Plaintiff Eclipse IP LLC

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 13 of 225 Page ID #:21

Case 2:13-cv-06649-PA-RZ Document 1 Filed 09/11/13 Page 14 of 225 Page ID #:22

United States Patent

Patent No.: US 7,119,716 B2 Date of Patent: Oct. 10, 2006

Scott A. Horstemeyer, Atlanta, GA (US)

(73) Assignee: LegaiVIew Assets, Limited, Tortola

4,325,057 4,350,969 4,525,601 4,585,904 4,713,661

Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this

(Continued) FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

patent is extended or adjusted under 35

(Continued) OTHER PUBLICATIONS