Eclipse IP v. US Airways

 

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Matt Olavi, Esq. (Bar No. 265945) [email protected] Brian J. Dunne, Esq. (Bar No. 275689) [email protected] OLAVI DUNNE LLP 800 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 320

- - - - - - ~ ~ · -

.

FILED CLERK, U.S. 01$1RICT COURf

Los Angeles,(213) California 90017 Telephone: 516-7900 Facsimile: (213) 516-79 516-7910 10

S P I I 20\3 _....,.., DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA DEPUTY Cc.t ,

Wf

ttorneyss for Plaintiff ttorney PlaintiffEclipse Eclipse P LLC

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UNITED STATES STATES DISTRICT COURT

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CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

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ECLIPSEIPLLC,aFloridaLimited

Liability Liabilit y Company Company,,

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4 15 16 17 18

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Plaint Pla intiff iff,,

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) ) TRIAL TRI AL BY JURY DEMANDED

v.

US AIRWAYS, INC., a Delaware Corporation,

Defendant.

______________________

) ) ) ) )

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25 26 27 28 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

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Plaintiff Plainti ff Eclipse IP LLC LLC ( Eclipse ), by and through counsel, counsel, complains against US Airways, Inc. ( US Airways ) as follows:

3 NATURE OF LAWSUIT

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1.

This is a suit for for patent paten t infringement arising under the patent paten t laws laws o f

the United States, Title 35 o f the United States

ode§

1

t

seq

This Court has

exclusive exclusi ve jurisdiction jurisdict ion over the subject matter o f the Complaint Complai nt under 28 U.S.C. §§ 1331 and 1338(a).

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PARTIES AND PATENTS

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3

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2.

Eclipse is a company organized under the laws o f Florida and having

a principal place o f business at 115 NW 1ih St St,, Delray De lray Beach, Flo Florida rida 33444. ,

Eclipse owns all right, title, and interest in and has standing to sue for

infringement o f United States Patent No. No. 7 119,716 ( the '716 patent ), entitled Response systems and methods for notification notification systems for modifying modifyin g future notifications (Exhibit A); United States States Patent No. 7,479,899 ( the '899 patent ),

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2

entitled Notification systems and methods enabling enabling a response to to cause

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connection connectio n between a notified PCD and and a delivery or pickup representative

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(Exhibit B); and United States Patent No. 7,504,966 ( the '966 patent ), entitled

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Response systems and methods for notification systems fo forr modifying modif ying future notifications (Exhibit C) (collec (collectively, tively, the Eclipse Patents ). 4.

On information and belief, US US Airways is a corporation existing under

the laws o f Delaware. 1

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

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On information and belief, US Airways does regular business in this

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Judicial District and conduct leading to US US Airways Airwa ys acts acts

JURISDICTION JURISDIC TION AND VENUE

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infringement has

occurred occurre d in this Judicial District.

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o

This Court has personal juris jurisdicti diction on over US Airways because it has

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engaged engag ed in continuous and systematic business in California; California; upon information i nformation and belief, derives substantial revenues from commercial activities in California; and, upon information and belief, belief, is operating and/or supporting products or services

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that fall within one or more claims

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Eclipse s patents in i n this District.

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

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o

and 28 U.S.C. § 1400(a) at least because the claim arises in this Judicial District, US Airways Airway s may be found and transacts business in this Judicial District, and

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injuries suffered by Plaintif Plai ntifff took place in this Judicial District. US Airways is

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subject subj ect to the general and specific personal personal jurisdiction jurisd iction

o

this Court at least

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because

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o

its contacts with the State

o

FACTUAL

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California. BACKGROUND

On information and belief, US Airways is an airline that offers

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domestic and international flights from from cities citi es across the United States, including many from Los Angeles. II

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Ill

2 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT

INFRINGEMENT

 

 

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timetable for every scheduled US Airways flight, which includes a scheduled departure time and a scheduled arrival time for every US Airways flight. 10

On information and belief, US Airways, either on its own or through

its agents, monitors the location

o its

various airplanes, and based at least in part

on the th e location location o a given airplane, determines whether a particular flight flight will depart depa rt from its scheduled departure city and/or whether a particular flight will arrive at its scheduled arrival arrival city earl earlier ier than the scheduled time, at the scheduled schedul ed time, or later than the scheduled time. 11.

On information and belief, US Airways also uses the location o its

various airplanes airplanes to determine whether or not to cancel flights. flights.

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On information and belief, US Airways creates and maintains a

12.

On information and belief, US Airways uses, makes, deploys,

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advertises, and/or operates at least one one system and/or service service (the US Airways

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System Syste m ) that can automatically notify notify one or more individuals about the status o

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a flight. The at least one US Airways system may sometimes be referred to

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US Airways Airwa ys BeNotified BeNotifie d system. system.

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as

the

On information and belief, as one non-limiting example, the US

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Airways System can automatically notify one or more individuals

o

flight

schedule changes, gate changes, departure reminders, arrival alerts, flight delays, and/or cancellations.

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3 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

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3 4 5

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On

least one communications method, including but not limited to through email an and d SMS messages, and that the the one the

at

paragraphs 1 through

10

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14

above as

i f fully

set forth herein.

US Airways owns, use uses, s, deploys, and/o and/orr operates at least one

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computerized computeri zed service and/or system, system, the US Airways System, for notifying one

or

more individuals regarding flight departure and/or arrival times. times.

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Eclipse reiterates reiterates an and d reincorpor reincorporates ates the allegations allegations set forth in

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moree individuals can select or modify whi mor which ch o f

US AIRWAYS ACT S OF PATENT INFRINGEMENT

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or

least one communications method should be used.

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information informa tion and beli belief, ef, these notifications can occur through at

Based Base d at least in part on the location a US Airways airplane, airplane, tthe he US

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Airways System provides electronic electronic notifications to one or more individuals regarding flight departure and/or arrival times.

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CLAIMS F O R RELIEF

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(Patent Infringemen Infringementt o f U.S. Patent No. 7,119,716 Under 35 U.S.C. § 271 et seq.

21 22

Eclipse reiterates and reincorporates reincorporates the allegatio allegations ns sset et forth in

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paragraphs 1 through

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2

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duly

and

systems

On

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above as

i f ful fully ly

se sett forth herein.

October 10 10,, 2006, the United States Patent and Trademark Office

legally issued United States States Patent N No. o. 7,119,716, entitled Response

and

methods for notification systems systems for modifying future notific notifications. ations.

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

Eclipse

2

A true and correct copy

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the owner o f the entire right, right, title and interest interes t in and to the 716 patent. o f the

716 patent

is

attached as Exhibit A to this

Complaint.

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is

(1)

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The 716 patent is valid and enforceable. enforceable.

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Eclipse is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, alleges, that:

Airways has infringed and continues to infringe one or more claims

716 patent, literally and/or under the the doctrine

o f equivalents

o f the

and additionally

and/or in the alternative, (2) US Airways has actively induced and continues to

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actively induce ind uce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute contribu te to the infringement o f one or more claims

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716 patent in this District and elsewhere elsewhere

in the United States.

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of the

On information informatio n and belief belief,, US Airways has directly infringed and

continues to directly infringe one or more more claims 35

o f the

716 patent, in violation

of

U.S.C. § 27 27l( l(a), a), by, among other things things,, making, using, offering fo forr sale,

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2

and/or selling a method for communications in connection with a computer-based

2

notification notifi cation system to, for example: store store contact data in computer memory;

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provide electronic notification communications to a personal communications

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device based on the contact data; receive receive changes to the contact data; and modify and/or and/ or how future notification notificat ion communications will b bee sent. 23

Additionally and/or in

the

alternative, on information and belief, US

Airwayss has actively induced Airway i nduced and continues continues to actively induce and/or has 5 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

if

 

 

contributed to and continues to to contribute contribute tto o the inf infringement ringement claims

3 4

o f the

716 patent, in violation

of35

o f one or

U.S.C. § 271(b) and/or (c), by, among

other things, acti actively vely,, knowingly, and and intentionally encouraging, aiding, and/or

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abetting others to make, use, offer for sale, and/or sell portions

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based

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notification system that infringes infringes one on e

or

more claims

of

a computer-

o f the

716 patent, with

the specific s pecific intent to encourage infringement and with the knowledge that the making, using, offering to sell, and/or selling

of

such a system syst em would constitute

infringement. 24.

2 3

more

On

information and belief, belief, US Airways has

patent at least as early as the filing early as the filing

o f this

of this

Complaint,

knowledge

o f the

716

Complaint. Additionally, at least as Complaint.

Airways

U

had

knew or

should have known that

it itss continued continu ed offeri offering, ng, use, deployment deployment,, and/or operation o f the at a t least one flight

17

notification notificatio n service and/or system aand nd it itss continued suppo support rt

o f others, i f those

18

parties perform any limitations

o f the

o f one or

more

o f the

claims

716 patent,

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20

would

25.

21 22

induce direct infringement

has

been

On

o fth e

716 patent.

information and belief, belief, US US Airw Airways ays aforesaid infringing aactivity ctivity

done with knowledge knowledg e and willful disregard o f Eclipse s patent rights,

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making this an exceptional case within the meaning o f 35 U.S.C. § 285. 26.

US Airway s aforesaid inf infringin ringing g activity activity has directly and

proximately proxim ately cause caused d damage to Plaintif Plaintifff Eclipse, including loss

o f profits

from sales

and/or licensi licensing ng revenues it would have made but for the infringeme infringements. nts. Unless 6 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

enjoined, the aforesaid infringing activity will continue and cause irreparable

2

injury to Eclipse for which there

is no

adequate remedy at law.

3 COUNT

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(Patent Infringement o f U.S. Patent No. 7,479,899 Under

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27

28

U.S.C. §

271

et seq.

Eclipse reiterates and reincorporates the allegations set forth in

paragraphs 1 through 26 above as

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35

i f full fully y

set forth herein.

On January 20, 2009, the United States Patent and Trademark Office

duly and legally issued United States Patent No. No. 7,479,899, entitled Notification 2

systems and methods enabling a response to cause connection between a notified

3

PCD PC D and a delivery or pickup representative. representative.

Eclipse is is the owner

o f the

entire entire

4

right, title titl e and interest in and to the '899 '899 patent. A true and correct copy o f the '899

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patent

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is

attached as Exhibit Exhib it B to this this Complaint.

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The '899 patent is valid and enforceable.

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Eclipse is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that: (1)

US

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20

Airways has infringed and continues to infringe one or more claims

2

patent, literally and/or under the doctrine

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of

o f the

'899

equivalents and additionally and/or in

the alternative, (2) US Airways has actively induced and continues to actively

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induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement one

or

more claims

ofth

of

'899 patent in this District and elsewhere in the United

States.

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7 COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

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31

On information and belief, US Airways has directly infringed and

continues to directly infringe one or more claims

o f the

899 patent, in violation violati on

of

35 U.S.C. § 271(a), by, among other things, things, making, using, offering for sale, and/or selling a method for an automated notification system to, for example: monitor the location location o f a plane; initiate a notification to one or more individuals indi viduals based on the location; and enable the one or more individuals to select whether or not to communicate with US Airways. 32

Additionally and/or an d/or in the the alternative, alternat ive, on information infor mation and belief, US

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Airways has actively induced and continues to induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement patent, in violation

of

5

o f one

or more claims

o f the

899

U.S.C. § 271(b 271(b)) and/or and/ or (c), by, among other o ther things

15 16 17 18

actively, knowingly, and intentionally encouraging, aiding, and/or abetting others to make, use, offer for sale, and/or sell portions

o f an

system that infringes one or more claims

899 patent, with the specific intent

o f the

automated notification

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2

to encourage infringement and with the knowledge that the making, using, offering

21

to sell, and/or selling

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33

o f such

a system would constitute infringement.

On information and belief, US Airways has had knowledge

o f the

899

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24 25

26

patent at least as early as the filing early as the filing

o f this

o f this

Complaint,

US

Complaint. Additionally, at least as

Airways kne w or should have known that

its continued offering, use, deployment, and/or operation

o f the

at least one flight

27

28

notification service and/or system and its continued support

o f others, i f those

8 COMPL

INT FOR P

TENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

parties perform any limitations

2

would induce direct infringement of the '899 patent.

3 4

o f one

or more

o f the

claims

activity has been done with knowledge and willful disregard

6

rights, making this an exceptional case within the meaning

8 9

1

'899 patent,

On information informati on and belief, US Airways' the aforesaid infringing infringing

34

5

7

o f the

US

35

o f Eclipse's

of

5

patent

U.S.C. § 285.

Airways' aforesaid infringing activity has directly and

proximately caused damage to Plaintiff Eclipse, including loss

o f profits

from sales

and/or and/ or licensing revenues it would have have made but for the the infringements. Unless

12

3

enjoined, the aforesaid infringing activity will continue and cause irreparable injury to Eclipse for which there is

no

14

COUNT3

(Patent Infringement o f U.S. Patent No. 7,504,966 Under 35 U.S.C. § 271 t seq.

5 16 17

adequate remedy at law.

Eclipse reiterates and reincorporates the allegations set forth

36

paragraphs 1 through 35 above

as i f fully

in

set forth herein.

21

duly and legally issued United States Patent No. No. 7,504,966, entitled Response

22

systems and methods for notification systems for modifying future notifications.

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24 25

26 27 8

Eclipse

is

the owner o f 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 E xhibit C to this

Complaint. 38

The '966 patent is valid

and

enforceable. 9

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

2

3 4 5 6

39

Eclipse is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that: (1)

Airways has infringed and continues to infringe one or more claims patent, literally and/or under the doctrine the alternative, (2)

US

o f equivalents

o f the

US

966

and additionally and/or in

Airways has actively induced and continues to actively

induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement

of

7 8

9

one

or

13 14

o f the

966 patent in this this District Dist rict and elsewhere

in

the United

States.

1

12

more claims

40

On information and belief,

US

Airways has directly infringed and

continues to directly infringe one or more claims

o f the

966 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

15

16 17 18

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

19

20

based upon the response, initiate one or more future notifications to one or more

21

different individuals and/or initiate

or more future notifications using one or

one

more different communications methods. 23 41

24 5 6

27

28

Additionally and/or

in

the alternative, on information and belief,

US

Airways has actively induced and continues to actively induce and/or has contributed to and continues to contribute to the infringement o f one or more claims

o f the

966 patent, in violation of

5

U.S.C. § 271 (b) and/or (c), by, among

10

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

other things, actively, knowingly, and intentionally encouraging, aiding, and/or

2

abetting others to make, use, offer for sale, and/or sell portions

3 4

5 6

based notification system that infringes one or more claims

of a

o f the

computer-

966 patent, with

the specific intent to encourage infringement and with the knowledge that the making, using, offering to sell, and/or selling

o f such

a system would constitute

7 8

9 1

12 13 14

infringement. 42

On information informa tion and belief, US Airways has had knowledge

patent at least as early early as the filing

as

o f this

the filing

of this

Complaint,

US

o f the

966

Complaint. Additionally, at least as

Airwayss knew or should have known that Airway

its continued offering, use, deployment, and/or operation

o f the

at least one flight

notification service and/or system and its continued support

o f others, i f those

parties perform any limitations

o f the

15

16 7 18

o f one

or more

o f the

claims

966 patent,

would induce direct infringement o f the 966 patent. 43

On information and belief,

US

Airways Airwa ys aforesaid afore said infringing activity

19

20

has been done with knowledge and willful disregard

21

making this an exceptional case within the meaning

22

44

US

of of

Eclipse Ecli pse s patent p atent rights, rights, 5

U.S.C. § 285.

Airway Air wayss aforesaid infringing infringing activity has directly and

23

24 5

6

proximately caused damage to Plaintiff Eclipse, including loss

o f profits

and/or licensing revenues it would have made but for the infringements. Unless enjoined, the aforesaid infringing activity will continue and cause irreparable

7

28

from sales

injury to Eclipse for which there is

no

adequate remedy at law. 11

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

PRAYER FOR RELIEF

 

2

3 4 5 6

WHEREFORE, Plai ntif f Eclipse aasks sks this Court to enter judgment against US Airways and against each o f US Airways respective subsidiaries, affiliates,

agents, servan servants, ts, employees an d all pe person rsonss in active concert or participation with it, granting the following relief:

7 8

9 1

12

I

A judgment that US Airways has infringed each and every one o f the

Eclipse Patents;

2

A per manent injunction aga against inst US Airways, its respective officers,

agents , servants, employees, attorne attorneys, ys, parent and subsidiary corporations, assigns

3

and successors in interest, and those persons in active concert or participation with

14

them, enjoining them from direct an and d indirect infringement o f each and every one

15 16 17 18

o f the Eclipse Patents;

3.

An award o f damages adequate to compensate Eclip se for the

infri ngemen t that has occurred, together with prejudg ment interest from the date

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20 21

22

infringement o f the Eclipse Patents began began;; 4

A reasonable royalty for US Airways use o f Eclipse s patented

technolog y, as alleged herein;

23 24

25

26

27 28

5

A n award to Eclipse o f all remedies available under 35 U.S.C. §§ 284

damagess up to and including trebling o f Eclipse s and 285, incl uding enhanced damage damage s for Defendants willful in infringem fringement, ent, and reasonable attorney attorneyss fee feess and costs; and,

COMPL

12 INT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

 

6

2

and just. just .

Such other and further relief as thi thiss Court or a jury may deem proper

3 4

5

DATED: September September 11 2013

OLAVI DUNNE LLP

6

g ~ L

B y : ~ ~

8

·

Matt Olavi Olavi Brian J Dunne ttorney tto rneyss for Plaintiff Eclipse IP LLC

9

1

2

13 JURY DEMAND

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Eclipse demands a trial by jury on all issues Rule

o

so

triable pursuant to Federal

Civil Procedure 38.

18

9

DATED: September Septe mber 11 2013 2013

OLAVI DUNNE LLP

2 2

22

y : ~ / :

23

~ _ _ ~ / _:Z-<-_1'_ ~ · · '.:.__

Matt Olavi Olavi Brian J Dunne ttorneys ttor neys f or Plaintiff Eclipse IP LL

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26

27 28 13

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

 

Exhibit

 

111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111

US007119716B2

(12)

United States Patent Horstemeyer

(54)

(75)

(10)

Patent No.:

(45)

Date of Patent:

RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR MODIFYING FUTURE NOTIFICATIONS

Inventor:

Scott

(US) A.

Horstemeyer,

Atlanta, GA

(73)

Assignee: Assignee: LegalView Assets, Limit ed, Torto Tortola la (VG)

(*)

Notice;

Appl. No.: 101706,591

(22)

Filed:

3,886.515 3,934.125 4,220,946 4,297,672 4,325,057

A A A A A

5/1975 1/1976 9/1980 10/1981 4/1982 4/198 2

Cottin et a . 340/994 Macano ........ .... 235/150.2 34 123 Henriot Fruchey et a . ............... 340/23 Bishop ..... ....... 340/539

4,350,969 4,525,601 4,585,904 4,7l3,661

A A A A

9/1982 6/1985 4/1986 12/19 12/1987 87

Greer ......... ................ 340/23 Bamich et al . .... .... . 379 37917 17 MM Mincone et al. ..... .. 179/7.1 TP Boone et al. 340/994

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS EP

0219859 A2

OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Moriok, eta\., "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring Monitoring a nd communication Systems for Bus r a n s i t ~ B e n e f i t s and Economic Feasibility", Final Report-U.S. Department of Transportation, Scp. 1991, Revised Mar. 1993, Dot-T-94-03.

Prior Publication Data

US 200410254985 Al

Dec. 16, 2004

Related U.S. Application Data (60)

(Continued)

Provisional application No. 60/473,738, filed on May Provisional 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

Primary Exa min er Tai Nguyen (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Thomas, I-Iorstemeyer & Risley LLP

a p p l i ~

cation No. 60/486,768, filed on Jul. 11, 2003, provi· sional application No. 60/498,819, filed on Aug. 29, 2003. (51)

(57)

(58)

Int. Cl.

(2006.01) U.S. Cl 3401994; 340/928; 340/539.11; 3401502; 340/504; 340/506 Field of Classification Search ................ 340/994, 340/928,539.11,502,504,506

See application file for complete search history. (56)

References Cited U.S. PAl'ENT DOCUMENTS 3,568,161 A 3,644,883 A 3,845,289 A

3/1971 Knickel 2/1972 Borman eta . 10/1974 10/19 74 French

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92 Claims, SO Drawing Sheets

I o o r t i o . ; . , ~ S ) ' > I o m

ABSTRACT

nisms for implementing the fOregoing steps.

.. 340/994 .... 340/23 ......... 235/151.2 235/151.2

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Kayden,

Response systems and methods are disclosed for commu nications in connection with a computer-based notification system and a personal communications device (e.g., tele phone, 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 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 mecha

G08G 11123

(52)

4/1987

(Continued)

Nov. 12, 2003

(65)

Oct. 10, 2006

(Continued)

Subject to any disclaimer, the tenn of his patent is extended or adjusted under 35 U.S.C. 154(b) by 328 days.

(21)

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US 7,119,716 B2 Page 2 U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 12/1988 1/1989 211989 211989 2/1989 311989 3/1989 8/1989

Takahashi ct al. . . 364/436 Shinka wa et a\. ...... . 364/436 Farley ..... ..... ..... .. 250/2 250/251 51 Barbiau.x et a . 340/52 F Champion, III ct a\. .... 340/905 Segala ..... ... 379/112 379/112 Brubaker .............. ...... 340 340/994 /994 Davis .................... 340/825.44 Cearley et al 364/424.02 Benyacar et al. 379/119 Rush et al 340/994 Scribner eta . ... 364/449 Fabiano et al. ............ 340/994 Fabiano eta . . 264/436 Harrington et al. .. 379/112 Sutherla nd ..... . 340/989 Wood et al. 364/569 Shucn ..... 379/11 379/115 5 Ichikawa 340/995 Moroto et al. . 364/44 9 Nathanson et al. .. 364/436 Liebesny eta . .... 379/59 Jackson et al. ............ 340/994 Silver et al ............... , 379i1 14 Wortha Wortham m ................ .... 364/460 364/460 Bolger .... ............... .... 364/4 364/436 36

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

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 5,02 ,789 5,048,079 5,068,656 5,097,429 5,103,475 5,113,185 5,121,326 5,122,959 5,131,020 5,144,301 5,146,491 5,155,689 5,168,451

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

5.179,584 5,218,629 5,218,632 5,223,844 5,243,529 5,271,4R4 5,299,132 5,323,456 5,351,194 5,361,296 5,381,338 5,381,467 5,394,332 5,398,190 5,400,020 5.420,794 5,424,727 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 5,485,520 5,493,295 5,493,694 5,506,893 5,515,421 5,519,621 5,526,401 5,539,810 5,544,225 5,546,444 5,552,795 5,559,871 5,570,100 5,577, 01

A 1/1993 1/19 93 Tsumura ........ .. 379/114 6/1993 Dumond, Jr. et al 379/59 A 611993 Cool ......................... 379/126 A 6/1993 Mansell et al .............. 342/357 A 364/449 911993 Kashiwazaki A 1211993 121199 3 Bahj at et al. 187/29.1 A 3/1994 Wortham .... . .. 364i460 A 611994 Oprea .... 379/375 A 9/1994 Ross eta . ....... 364/449 A 11/1994 Reyes el a\. ..... ... 379/96 A l/1995 Wysocki et al. . ..... ... 364/449 A 111995 Rosinski ct al. .. . . 379/121 A 211995 Kuwahara eta . .......... 364/449 A 3/1995 Wortham .. .... ..... ,, ..... 364/460 A 311995 Jones .......... ,., ......... 340/994 A ... 364/436 511995 James A 340/928 A "' 6 I99 5 Shieh 6/1995 Shah ot al. . . 364/449 A 7/1995 Rimer 379/59 A 364/426.05 811995 l\'"ewman A 8/1995 Ross . , . , . , ...... . 340/994 A 8/1995 Sa\tzstein et al. . 364/514 A 9/1995 Kemner eta\. 365/424.02 A 10/1995 Lewiner eta\. ... 340/994 A 1/1996 Correel eta . . .. 3401994 A . ... 364/443 111996 Lewiner et al. A 1/1996 Chamn et al. ............... 705/74 A 2/1996 Lowinor ct a\. .. ..... , .... 340/994 A 2/1996 Vlcek et al 455/53.1 A 4/1996 Buscher ct al .. .. ., 379/114 A 4/1996 Wortham .... . ... 364/460 A 511996 Sikand et al. . ............ 379/67 A 5/1996 Wortham .... . .... 364146 A 379/59 611996 Roach, Jr. eta . A 711996 7119 96 Kennedy, IIII II et a\. .. .... .. 379/59 A 8/1996 Kennedy, II IIII et al ......... 379/59 A Jr, et al. ..... .... . 379/59 811996 Roach, Jr, A 9/1996 Tayloe el al. 342/357 A 911996 Smith ..... ... 379/115 A 10/1996 Grube eta . ............... 364/446 A 1111996 Bo h m ........................ 379/58 A

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 5,9R7,377 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

5,579,376 5,587,715 5,594,650 5,594,787

A A A A

6,137,425 6,144,301 6,178,378 6,184,802

5,513,lll

111990

91199 311991

4/1991 5/1991 611991

6/1991 9/1991 11/1991 11/199 1 3/1992 4/1992 511992

611992

6/1992 711992 9/1992 911992

I0/1992 12/1992 12/19 92

1111996 1111996 I 2/1996 1/1997 1/1997

Kennedy, III et al. .... .... 379 /60 Lewis ............... 342/357 Sha h et al. ..... ..... ... 364/449.1 Ohshima eta . ........... 379/114

Exhibit A Page 15

A A

A A

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A A A

A A A A A

A

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A

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A A A A A A

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2/1997 Haagensta.d eta\. 3641436 4/1997 Jones ....... .. .. 340/994 7 l997 Ross .......... . ..... 340/9 340/994 94 7/1997 Wortham ..... . ..... 364/460 8/1997 Jones ... ....... .. .. ... 340/994 9/1997 JOnt; S ' . . . . . . . . . . . 340/994 911997 Ross .... ....... . ........ ... ... ... 379/58 10/1997 Magliari et al. .. 340/904 12/1997 Westerlage eta\ ......... 364/464 12/1997 Backaus et a . ..... .... .. 379/427 12/1997 Beasley eta . ........ 364/514 R 11998 llrinkman et. a J .......... 379/119 2/1998 2/19 98 Zazzera ............... ....... 379 379/265 /265 211998 Bucket a . ........ 364/443 3/1998 Westerlage et al. . 364/446 3/1998 Peters eta . 395/671 3/1998 Bhusri . . .. 379/115 3/1998 Spaur et al 370/313 3/1998 Kennedy, I I I et al 455/445 411 411998 998 Burge ner . .. . . .... 340/994 4/1998 Olandesi ..... . ........ 340/994 4/1998 Burk .............. 3791198 5/1998 Jank.y et al ................. 342/357 6/1998 Branch eta . .............. 342/457 611 611998 998 Friedes ....... ..... ..... . ... 379/ 379/121 121 6/1998 Kennedy, ll et al 455/456 6/1998 6/199 8 Reynolds .............. ... 364/449 364/449.7 .7 7/1998 Krasner ...... .. 342/357

A

7/1998 8/1998 8/1998 8/1998 8/1998 8/19 98 9/1998 9/1998 10/1998 11/1998 11/1998

A A A A A

1/1999 2/1999 3/1999 6/1999 6/1999

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A A

1 12 1112

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Bl B1

Chapman et al ............ 379/119 Sbisa ...... 379/120 Lewis ..... .... ..... . 342/3 57 Fleischer, III eta . ...... 379/113 Culbertson Culbertson .,. ........... . 701/ll7 Penzias ..................... 379/118 Matta et al. . ..... .. 340/994 Sorden eta . .......... 3421457 Fraser .. . .... 379/115 Graham eta . ............ 379/114 Welter, Jr. .. . .... . 379/ 116 Ronen ....................... 379/127 Glitho et al ................ 379/116 Keams eta . .......... 379/114 Gocl ct al .................. 379/120 Whiled ct aL ..... 379/115 Jagadish ot al. , ..... ... . 379/127 Alcott eta . ..... 379/114 Prabhakaran ............... 701/117 701/117 Kim ............. ............. 379/ 379/121 121 Weik et a\. .. ..... . .. 370/259 Leta eta . ......... 379/120 Freestone et al. 705/400 Trask ................. 340/825.491 Bhusri ..................... 379/115 Brendzel .................... 705/34 Toga.wa ....... ., .......... 340/994 Melen et a 379/114 Jagadish et al. 379/115 Jagadish eta ............. 379/114 Wester\age eta\. ......... 701/204 Malik.... 379/114 Bruno eta . 379/.115 Bouanaka. et al. .. 379/115 Johnson eta . ........ 379/116 Schmier eta . .......... 701/200 Wilson ...................... 340 904 Lewiner et al. . . 340/994 Schuchman et al. 342/357 Segal et a . .......... 340/994 Oumi ........................ 701/209

Oster et a . ................ 340/994 Frieden ................... 340/572.8 112001 Leibold ...................... 701/202 2/2001 Lamb .... ...... . ..... .... . 340/994

 

US 7,119,716 B2 Page 3 6,191,708 6,222,462 6.240,362 6,253,146 6,253,148 6,278,936 6,313,760 6,317,060 6,360,101 6,363,254 6,363,323 6,374,176 6,400,956 6,411,891 6,415,207 6,486,801

2/2001 4/2001 5/2001 6/2001 61200 I 8/2001

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... . . .... ......

70ll201 340/994 340/994 445/456

3/2002 Irvin 3/2002 Jones et a 4551456 701/213 3/2002 Jones 4/2002 Schmier et al. 701/200 6/2002 Richton ..... 455/456 6/2002 Jones 70l/201 7/2002 JontJS 70111 11/2002 Jones 340/994 12/2002 Jones l/2003 Jones 9/2003 Laird ..... 701/204 340/994 1/2004 Jones 3/2004 Jones ..... 340/994 4/2005 Meyer .. .... 345/156 340/505 9/2005 Sebanc et al. 2/2002 Doganata et al. 455/456 6/2002 Schrnicr ct a . 7011213 6/2002 Jones 7/2002 Schmier et a . .... 70I/200 5/2003 Puchck et al. .............. 379/38 5/2003 5/2003 8/2003 10/2003 10/2003 I0/2003 I0/2003 012003

10/2003 10/2003

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3

70I/20I Jones Jones ......... 340/994 ............ 340/988 Jones .. 340/994 Jones Jones . 340/994 Jones ............. ...... .... 340/994 Jones .. 701/20I Jones .. 701/201 Jones ......................... 701/201 .... 70I/20I Jones .... 701/200 Jones Jones .. 70l/207

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS EP EP

FR FR GB GB

0805427 AI 0889455 AI 2 559 930 2674355 W093/13510 Al WO 9313510 AI

11/1997 111999 8/1985 9/1992 7/1993 7/1993

'The Jrd International Conference on Vehicle Vehicle Navigation & Infor matio n Systems (VNIS) Norway, Sep. 2-4, 1992, pp. 312-315 . Preiss, George; Jenson, Lillian; "The Satref and GPS Information Projects", 1992 I E E E - 3 r d International Conference on Vehcile Navigation Infonnation Systems, pp. pp. 648-655. 648-655. "Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference Proceed ings" (P-253), Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc., Oct. 1991, pp. 789-796. "1992 Compendimn of Technical Papers", Institute of Transporta tion Engineers-INRAD: A Deminostration ofTwo-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 Administrat ion, Sep. 1991, Revised Mar. 1993. Koncz, et a ., "GIS-Based Transit Information Bolsters Travel Options", GIS World, Jul. 1995, pp. 62-64. Helleker, Jan, Real-Time Traveller Information--··-in everyone's pocket? --a pilot test using hand-p01table GSM terminals, IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation & Infonnation systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS I993, pp. 49-52 Burgener. E. C., et al., "A Personal Transit Arrival Time Receiver", I E E E - l E E Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Confer ence, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 54-55. Peng, Zhong-Rcn, "A Mdhudology for Design for a GIS-Based Automatic Transit Traveler Information System'', Computer, Envi ronment and Urban Systems, vol. 21, No. 5, pp. 359-372, 1997 Lessard, Robert, "The Use of Computer for Urban Transit Opera tions", I E E E - l E E Vehicle Navigation & Information systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 586-590. Sommerville, Fraser, et al., "Reliable InfoiJDalion in Everyone's Pocket-a Pilot Test", IEEE, vo . 1927, Mar. 1994, pp. 425-428 "PROMISE-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service-Specification of Promise Services, Ver. 7", Telematics Application Progr111Illlle A2, Transport, Jul. 1, I996 "PROMISE---Personal Mobile Traveller and Traflic Inli.Hmation Service--Generic Promise Sys tem Architecture, Ver. 2", Telematics Application Progr111Illlle A2, Transport, Sep. 10, 1996. "PROMISE-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service----Summary of Promise Public Relation Activities, Ver. 1", Telematics Application Progr111Illlle 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. 3/1-3/4. "Automatic Transit Location System", Washington State Depart

Brynielsson, Thore. Step by Step Development Towards Attractive Public Transport, Chalmers University o f Technology, Gotebord, Sweden, Department of Transportation, I976. "Public Transporation Information and Management Ssytems'', lEE

ment of Transportation, Final Report, Feb. 1996. "Advanced Traveler Aid Systems for Public Tran&-portation", Fed eral Transit Administration, Sep. I994. "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Communications Systems for Bus Transit: Benefits and Economic Feasibility", U.S. Department ofTransp01tation, 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 Pro ceedings", Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, I994, pp. 807-810. y s t e m ~ "Vehicle Navigation & Information Conference Proceedings-P-253, Part 2", Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc., Oct. 1991. Vehicle Vehic le Navigation & Information Systems-Conference Record of Papers presented at the Jro Vehicle Navigation & Information Systems Conference 1992., Reso Hotel, Osio Plaza., pp. 49-52. Nelson, l Richard, "Experiences Gained in Implementing an Eco nomical Universal Motorist System", , I E E E - l E E Vehicle Navi

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JP JP JP

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6/1977 11/1988 2/I999

2/1990 7/1993 2/1994 1Jll994

2/1996 5/1996 2/1998 2/1998 4/1998 911998

011-IER PUBLICATIONS

Exhibit A Page 16

 

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facsimile

(Now

in

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Catliog, Ian e t a ., " TABASCO- l mpr ovi ng 'lransport Systems in Europe", Pacific Rim TnmsTech Conferem;e, Jul. 30-Aug. 2 1995, 995 Vehicle Navigation Information Systems Conference Pro ceedings, Washington State Convention and Trade Center, Seattle, Washington, USA, pp. 503-507. Dailey, D.J., "Demonstration o f an Advance Public Transportation in the Context o f 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, Frilllce, pp. 3024-3031. System

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Berzins. G., et al., "INMARSAT: Worldwide Mobile Satellite Services on Seas, in Air and on I and", Space Technology, vol. l 0, No. 4, pp. 231-237, 1990.

Exhibit A Page 17

 

US 7,119,716 B2 Page 5 Jenney, LL., eta ., "Man as Manager of Automated Resources in an Advanced Air Traffic Traffic System", l Aircraft, vo\. 12 No. 12, Dec. 1975. "Routin g Scheduling System improvements from RTSI; RTSI; R Routing outing Technology Software, Inc.; Product Annotmcement", Modern Brewery Age vol. 43, No. 3, p. l l S , Jan. 20, 1992. Yanacek, Frank, "Hitching to the stars; satellites for shipment tracking", Research Information Transportation Journals, Com bined, 6, vol. 29, p 16. Stoll, Marilyn, "For on-the-road firms, hand-held terminals are pivotal. Connectivity", Research Information Transportation Jour nals, Combined, No. 34, vol. 5 p Cll. IBM and Hunt to Market New Truck Tracker; International Busi ness Machines", l B. Hunt Transport Services; Brief Article, No. 210. vol. 101, 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, ir Transpor t Section, May 2 23, 3, 1977, p. 36. Klass, Philip J., "American to Install Printers in Cockpits", Aviation Week and Sp ace 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 ~ y s t e m s 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, I n t e r n a ~ tiona Air Transpor t Section, vol. 13 t, 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, vol. 309, No. 17, p. 147. Neumann, Dr. Horst, "ATC Concepts with ExtensivtJ Utili;r..ation of Automatic Data Processing", pp. 4-1 to 4-9; no Publication Infor mation or Date Information Provided Provided.. Balke, Kevin, et al., Collection and Dissemination of Real-Time Travel Time and Incident Infonnation with In-Vehicle Communi cation Technologies, Technologies, pp. 77-82, no Publication Information or Date Information Available.

* cited by

Exhibit A Page 18

examiner

 

Base Station Control Unit BSCU)

Notification System

Positioning System e.g., GPS Satellites, radar, etc.)

Mobile Thing MT)

 

<a

mO

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Combined MTTL And

Feedback Analyzer 100a

Determination System 190

DTL Notification System 290

Mobile Thing

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52

Mobile Thing Control Unit MTCU) JJi.

S

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e.g., a Motor Vehicle. PCD, etc.)

=

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System 250

31b--

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Determination

Messaging System 210

li

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Response System

Stop Location

Secure Notification

l

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41 Base Station BS) Manager 4l_

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e.g., PSTN)

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cr

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Mobile Thing Determination System 250

Stop Location Determination System 190

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j rJJ

79

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Store current location values and current time values in next entry of the mobile thing schedule

11-

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82

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85

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87 Find corresponding entry in mobile thing schedule

8

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fJo

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No .96

obile thing early or late· based upon a predefined threhold?

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99

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Database 94 Mobile Thing Data 68a

Comm Method Data 68c

User Data 68b

I uthentication DataJ PCD Travel 68h Data {72 -um

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Traffic Flow Pred. Data §.ill

Ad Data 8f

Failure States Data 681

PCD Data 68g

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Tasks Data 68m

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Data

Yes

FIG 5C

88c 88b

Data from mobile thing?   um

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No

received?

> Yes

0

Compare travel data from mobile thing to preference data in travel data table

N 0 0

No

~

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user preferences in database

User Preferences ?

Yes

88g

88i

No

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88

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88j

88k Retrieve desired

travel data

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Ul

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90a

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90c 90b

90d

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notificaiton preferences to monitoring mechanism

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otification-Receiving Party Contact Records 86

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onitoring .travel .travel data dat a in connection with a mobile thing that is destined to pickup or deliver an item at a stop location

onitoring travel data in connection with a mobile thing that is destined to pickup or deliver an item at a stop location

t

6

Causing initiation initiation of a notification communication to a personal communications communicatio ns devic e based based upon the travel data

0

"..

~ 9

During the notification communication, enabling a party associated with the personal communications device to select whether or not to communicate with a party having access to particulars of the pickup or deliver

During the notification communication, enabling a party associated with the personal communications device to change one or more tasks associated with the pickup or delivery.

07

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0 0

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5

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communications device based upon the travel data.

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a

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0

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117

Causing a mobile thing to arrive at or depart from from the location at substantially the selected time.

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FIG 7

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e

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100a Start

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a

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..

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2

Receiving a response communication from the party s personall communications persona device

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31

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FIG 9 A

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l

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142

<:> 0

notific tion communic tions to

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Causing the notification notification syste.m o refr refrain ain from sending

121

Modifying contact data based upon the response

'

1

Modifying contact data based 1-upon the respons response e

2

Causing the notification system to refrain from sending notification notificati on communications to the party s personal communications device after receiving the response

32

r

+

Causing one or more other notification notificat ion communications to the party and/or one or more other parties, using one or more different communication methods, based upon the modified contact data

the party s personal communications device after receiving the response, until the detection of one or more events

3

v

FIG 9

one or more events

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from the party associated with the personal communications device.

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=

l

t

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-,

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0

53

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FIG 10

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=

 

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)

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dataa associated with mobile thing

1

Contacting a party based upon the 1 travel data ~

,.

+

2

Providing a notification communication involving travel status o the mobile thing

+ Providing an

0

Providing an advertisement to the party substantially during the contact

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rJ

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advertisement as part accompanying the

o or

notification communication

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..... .....

more advertisements during a notification regarding a mobile thing

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nabling a party to indicate a willingness to receive one or

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0

..

172

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64

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FIG 12

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j

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nabling a party to indicate a willingness to receive one or more advertisements during a notification regarding a mobile thing

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Hl2

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184

'

Providing an advertisement as part o f or accompanying· the notification communication

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...... ......

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= :->

 

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•

  um m x

92

•

Start

;

Monitoring travel data associated with a mobile thing

+

a

90b

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Causing communication of a notification involving a delivery or pickup task associated with the mobile thing to a personal communications device associated with a party

0

.....

•

193

eceiving location data from the personal communications device

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Cj

....

eceiving location data from the personal communications device

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00

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etermining one or more stop etermining locations, based upon the device location data and the travel data associated with the mobile thing

•

etermining one or more mobile things with one or more corresponding stop locations, based upon the device location data and the travel data associated with the mobile thing

94

a .....

QO

....

0

l

+

+

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. locations.

04

Causing communication of an identification of the mobile things and stop locations to the personal communications devic e so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished.

95

d

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FIG 14A

FIG

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onitoring travel data associated with

'

'

associated with a mobile thing

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+

Causing communication an identification of the stop location s) to the persona personall of

0

a plurality of mobile things, e.g., first and second mobile things

t

Determining one or more first and Determining second stop locations, locations, based upon the timing criteria and an d the travel travel data associated with the first and second mobile things, respectively respectively

13

.....

p

3

:

' .....

0

0

....

Causing communication o f an identification o f the first and second mobile things thing s and the first first and second stop locations to the personal communications communicatio ns device so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished at least one o f the stop locations

communications device so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished

FIG 15A

a

en

+ 4

N

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u

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FIG

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c ;

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communications device associated with a party

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Memory 30b Authentication Information 234

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FIG 16

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INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER -------File

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Subj: YXZ CHARITY ARRIVJNG IN 2 MINUTES Date: 1/28/1995 1:47:56 PM Eastern Standard Time From: [email protected] o: [email protected] -um W X

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The person to the right will be approaching your home at 1:49pm.

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verification, ·t ·to o cancel the arrival, or to reschedule.

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ausing estab lishment of a first communication session between the system and a PCD Start

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ermitting a party to identify a pickup location, a dropoff location, and one or more notification preferences

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Identifying a mobile thing based upon the identity of the pickup location. the dropoffflocation, or both

Causing communication of a n dentity of the mobile thing when appropriate, pursuant to the one or more notification notification preferences

3

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During the first communication session permitting a party to identify (a) a communicatio ns method f or providing providing a nolif cation, (b) a pickup location and (c) a dropoff location

•

dentifying a mobile thing that will arrive at the pickup location for pickup and that will travel travel to the dropof f llocation ocation for dropoff, based upon the identity of the pickup location, the dropoff location, or both

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ausing establishment of a second communication session in accordance with the communications method for providing a notification

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During the second communications session, identifying the mobile thing,

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stablishing a first communication

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session between the system and a personal communications device

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1 During a communication session with a personal c ommunications device, determining a location of the personal communications device

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0

During the first communication session, determining a location of the personal communications device

;;

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72

Selecting a mobile thing from among a plurality plurali ty to travel to the location or a different location for a pickup or delivery at the location

Identifying a mobile thing to travel to the location or a different location for a pickup or delive delivery ry based upon the determined location

mO

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Establishing a second communication Establishing session between the system and the personal communications device when one or more user preferences criteria relating to travel status of the selected mobile thing have been satisfied.

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US 7,119,716 B2

2 RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR MODIFYING FUTURE NOTIFICATIONS

CLAJM OF PRIORITY

5

This application claims the benefit of and priority to the following provisional applications, all of which are incor porated herein in their entirety: Ser. No. 60/473,738, filed May 28, 2003; Ser Ser.. No. 60/473,742, filed May 28, 2003; Ser. No. 60/473,949, filed May 28, 2003; Ser. No. 60/486,768, filed Jul. II, 2003; and Ser. No. 60/498,819, filed Aug. 29, 2003.

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 o f time, oftentimes in adverse weather conditions, on unlit street comers, or in hazardous conditions near busy or

secluded streets. An advance notification notification system that would inform the students o f the school bus's proximity would be desirable so that students can avoid having to wait for the school bus at the bus stop stop fo r extended time periods. Yet another example involves the commercial-overnight package industry, wherein packages are delivered or picked RELATED APPLICATIONS 15 up many times on a tight schedule. Customers oftentimes wait on delivery or pickup of important timeMcritical pack ages, not knowing precisely when the delivery or pickup will Tills application is related to the following copending occur. A notification system that can inform a customer of U.S. utility patent applications that were filed by the same the precise arrival or departure time of a delivery vehicle i11ventor of this application: (1) "RESPONSE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NOTI 20 with respect to a location would be desirable in order to improve customer service and to allow the customer to FICATION SYSTEMS" filed on Jun. 2, 2004 and better schedule a delivery or pickup of an item. assigned Ser. No. 10/858,684; 10/858,684; Still another example involves the airline indusuy. It is (2) SECURE NOTIFICATIO NOTIFICATION N MESSAGING SYSTEMS desirable to notify airline workers, workers, such as thos e who unload AND METHODS USING AUTHENTICATION INDI baggage from airplanes, an airplane is about to land or 25 when CIA filed on Jun. 2, 2005 and assigned Ser. No. 10/858, has landed. A notification system can be employed to track 732; the airplane travel status and to send notifications to these (3) STOP LOCATION DETERMINATION SYSTEMS workers, when appropriate. AND METHODS BASED UPON USER-DEFINED To date, notification systems have been develOped to TIMING CRITERJA" PILED ON Jun. 2 2005 nd address the foregoing needs and some are known in the art. 30 assigned Ser. No. 10/858,774; Mr. M. Kelly Jones, a prolific inventor in this field, obtained (4) STOP LIST GENERATION SYSTEMS AND METH numerous patents that describe examples of such notification ODS BASED UPON TRACKED PCD'S AND systems, some o f which are as follows: U.S. Pat. No. RESPONSES FROM NOTIFIED PCD'S filedon Jun. 2 5,400,020; U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,444; U.S. Pat. No. 5,623,260; 2005 and assigned Ser. No. 10/859,343; and 5 U.S. Pat. No. 5,647,010; U.S. Pat. No. 5,648,770; U.S. Pat. (5) "NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS No. 5,657,010; U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,543; and U.S. Pat. No. ENABLING A RESPONSE TO CAUSE CONNECTION 5,400,020; U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,936; U.S. Pat. No. 6,317,060; BETWEEN A NOTIFIED PCD AND A DELIVERY OR U.S. Pat. No. 6,363,323; U.S. Pat. No. 6,363,254; U.S. Pat. PICKUP REPRESENTATIVE" filed on Jun. 2, 2005 and No. 6,411,891; U.S. Pat. No. 6,415,207; U.S. Pat. No. assigned Ser. No. 10/858,964. 40 6,492,912; U.S. Pat No. 6,510,383; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,618,668. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A nonexhaustive list of other examples of notification systems is as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,159 (for a public 1. Field of the Invention bus transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,176 (fo r a public bus The present invention genemlly relates to data commuM 45 transit system); application Ser. No. 09/163,535, filed on 10

nications, information, and messaging systems and, more Sep. 30, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,739 (for a public transit particularly, to systems and methods that notify a party of system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,940 (tracking system for buses; travel status associated with one or more mobile things notice of impending arrival is described); U.S. Pat. No. (MTs). 5,808,565 (GPS triggered automatic enunciator for public 2. Related rt 50 transportation vel::ricles that notifie notifiess of a stop based upon the For at least the purposes of allowing better preparation location of the vehicle); U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,974 (apparatus and scheduling, for example, with respect to pickllps or carried by a user to notify of arrival so user does not miss deliveries, it would be desirable to know, with substantial stop); U.S. Pat. No. 5,987,377 (dispatch system that deter accuracy, the expected arrival or departure time of a mobile mines expected time of arrival and indicates to dispatcher vehicle or thing (for example but not limited to, a bus, 55 when a vehicle will be late); U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,810 automobile, truck, train, ship, plane, aircraft, etc.) with (vehicle apparatus determines when vehicle has arrived or respect to a location. departed from a planned or unplanned stop and communiM cates such information to a central facility); U.S. Pat. No. For example, consid er a commercial bus service. A person intending to catch a bus or intending to pick up a friend or 6,137,425 (waiting time prediction system for a public relative at the commercial bus station usually calls the bus 6 transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,378 (a vehicle naviga· station to find out the approximate arrival time (infonnation tion system where a start call, such as by telephone, is which is oftentimes unavailable or unreliable) and/or arrives made); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,184,802 (system for informing at the bus station prior to the scheduled arrival or departure users when a next vehicle will arrive at their boarding site). time of the bus, hoping that the bus is not significantly delayed. With knowledge of accurate arrival arrival or departure information, adjustments adjustments can be made to one's schedule to avoid having to wait extended periods for a vehicle.

65

Furthermore, a nonexhaustive list of examples of racking systems is as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 5,014,206; U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,185; U.S. Pat. No. 5,15 5,689; U.S. Pat. No. 5,168,45I (transit system for dispatching vehicles); U.S. Pat. No.

Exhibit A Page 69

 

US 7,119,716 B2 4

3

5,223,844; U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,529 (in-vehicle navigation steps. One such representative response system of he invenw apparatus with map display); U.S. Pat. No. 5,299,132; U.S. tion, among others, would comprise a comp11ter system programmed to perform the foregoing steps. 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 A.nother such representative response method of the others, ers, can be summarized by the followw and conununicating with mobile vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. s invention, among oth ing steps: receiving a notification communication with a 5,448,479; U.S. Pat. No. 5,483,454; U.S. Pat. No. 5,519,621; personal communications device associated with the party U.S. Pat. No. 5,587,715 (describes a satellite based tracking system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,594,650 (describes a tracking from the notification system; communicating a response communication from the party's personal communications system with map display capabilities); U.S. Pat. No. 5 652 707; U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,243 (on board vehicle system 10 device, indicating that the party has received the notification communication and is now occupied with a task associated tracks location and expected tim timee of arrival); U.S. Pat. No. 5,739,774 (mass transit monitoring system); U.S. Pat. No. with the notification notification communic communication; ation; and causing the noti 5,760,742 (integrated mobile GIS/GPS/AVL with wireless fication system to refrain from sending any further notifi messaging); U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,365 (uses satellites, vehicle cation communications communications to the part y's personal communica· tracking units, and a central computer); U.S. Pat. No. 15 tions device, until detection of one or more events, 5,922,040 (vehicle positioning data is exchanged between indicating that the party is no longer occupied with the task vehicles and a centra centrall processor having a map display); U.S. and can perfonn another task as..<;ociated with another noti Pat. No. 5,945,919 (dispatch system tracks vehicles); U.S. fication communication. Another such representative Pat. No. 6,191,708 (vehicle location tracking without satel response system of he invention, among others, would have lites); U.S. Pat. No. 6,253,148 (tracks buses and communi 20 a computer system programmed to perform the foregoing cates waiting times to radio receivers); and U.S. Pat. No. steps. 6,360,101 (cellular phone that displays or sends messages Yet another such representative response method of the upon its arrival at a predetem1ine predetem1ined d location). invention, among others, can be summarized by the follow Another tracking system that has has been known in the art is ing steps; scheduling an arrival or departure time for a the FlightView airline tracking system developed by RLM 25 mobile thing in relation to a stop location; scheduling a Software, Inc., which monitors the progress of an airplane notification communication to a personal communications and displays its location on a map on a user s computer device; monitoring travel data pertaining to the mobile screen. RLM receives real-time flight data (for example, thing; determining that the mobile thing will be delayed in position and speed) for each flight over No rth America. This arriving or departing from the stop location; initiating a data comes from transponders located on aircraft. The F 30 communication session with a communications device; and co11ects the transponder data, adds radar and other informa during the communication session, reporting a travel status of the mobile thing indicating that the mobile thing will be tion, and supplies it to RLM. This data feed is known in the aviation industry as ASDI, which stands for Aircraft delayed and enabling cancellation o f the scheduled notifi Situation Display for Industry and has been made available cation communication. Yet another such representative by the FAA since 1996. RLM processes this data and stores 35 response system of he invention, among others, would have it in the FlightView data base. user can then request the a computer system prognunmed to perfonn the foregoing status of any commercial flight from the FlightView system steps. (by providing the airline and flight number), which sends to Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the accompa· the user's computer screen a map showing the current position, route, and expected arrival time of the flight. 40 nying Drawings and following Detailed Description section. Sabre, Inc., provides similar map functionality at its BRJEF DESCRJPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Yrrtually There web site using a system that is apparently Flight View system. based upon the FlightView The invention can be better understood with reference to As can be seen from the aforementioned prior art the the following drawings. The elements of the drawings are systems that give notice concerning the status of moving 45 things are still evolving and, in some sense, the art is still in

not necessarily to scale relative to each other, emphasis instead being pl aced upo n clearly illustrating th thee principles of the invention. Furthermore, like reference numerals des· application and inventi invention on for the public good to educate and ignate corresponding parts throughout the several views. further advance the technology associated with such sysw FIG. 1 is a block diagram il1ustrating an exemplary terns. 50 implementation of an automated notification system, which SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION in this case, is a computer-based system. FlG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary implementation of a computer system implementing the Briefly described, the present invention provides response systems nd methods for communications in connection 55 functionality of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary with a computer·based notification system and a personal communications device (e.g., telephone, pager, PDA etc.) implementation of a computer system implementing the functionality of the base station manager (BS manager) of associated with a party. FJG.l. One such representative response method of the invenw FIG. 4A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary implerion, among others, can be summarized by the following 60 mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, steps: initiating initiating a notification communication to a personal and operation of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1 that communications device associated with a party; receiving a creates the mobile thing schedule. response commWlication from the party's personal commn·

a state of infancy. Accordingly, l write and submit this

nications device; and modifying a manner in which FIG. 4B of is at illustrating an exemplary imple a flow notification communications are implemented, basedfuture upon 65 mentation least chart part of the architecture, functionality, the response. representati ve response system, among and operation of the mobile thing manager of FIG. 1 that others, has mechanisms for implementing the foregoing tracks the mobile thing.

Exhibit A Page 70

 

US 7,119,716 B2

5

FIG. SA is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemplary implementation of at -]east part of the architec· ture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· mentation o f the response system feedback mechanism, which is optionally implemented as at least a part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the personal communications device PCD) of FIG. 1, and which inter acts with the response system feedback analyzer o f any o f FIGS. 7 through 9C FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple·

1.

FIG. 5B is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemplary implementation of at least part of the architec· ture, functionality, and operation o f the data manager asso ciated with the BS manager of FIG. SA.

FIG. SC is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple mentation o f an advertisement method o f doing business that mentation of at least part of the architecture, functionality, 10 can be optionally implemented in com1ection with any and operation oftbe monitoring mechanism associated associated with notification system. the BS manager of FIGS. SA and SB. FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· FIG SD is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple mentation of another advertisement method of doing busi· mentation of at least part of the architecrure, functionality, ness that can be optionally implemente implemented d in connection with and operation of the message manager associated with the 15 any notification system. BS manager of FIGS. SA and 58 FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary i m p l ~ FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary mentation o f yet another advertisement method o f doing implementation of he response system of FIG. 1 which has business that can be optionally implemented in connection response the response system feedback mechanism and the response with any notification system. system feedback analyzer. 20 FIG. 14A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· FIG. A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· mentation of a first stop location determination 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 architecture, regarding the location of the PCD and/or user) that can be functionality, and operation o f the BS manager of FIGS. optionally implemented in connect connection ion with any notification and 3. 25 system, for example, as at least part o f the architecture, FIG. 7B is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary functionali functi onality, ty, an d operatio n of the BS manager o f FIGS. implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, and 3. which is optionally implemented as at least part of the FTG.14B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary impleD architecture, functionality, and operation o f he BS manager mentation of a second stop location determination system o f FIGS. 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, FIG. 7C is a flow flow cha rt illustrati ng yet anothe r exemplary functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, 35 and 3. which is optionally implemented as at least part of the FTG. 15A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· architecture, functionality, and operation o f he BS manager mentation of a third stop location determination system (and and 3. A respon se from a notified party is used o f FIGS. method; system and method are based upon timing criteria) to change one or more tasks associated with a pickup or that can be optionally implemented in connection with any delivery of an item or service associat ed with a stop location. 4D notification system, for example, as at least part of the FTG. 7D is a flow flow chart ill ustrating still another exemplary architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager implementation of a response system feedback analyzer, ofFJGS. 1 and 3. which is optionally implemented as at least part of the FIG. is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· 15B architecture, functionality, and operation o f the BS manager mentation a fourth stop location determination system o f o f FIGS. and 3 3.. A response from a notified notified party is used 45 to select one of a plurality of times for a pickup or delivery (and method; system and method are based upon timing criteria) that can be optionalJy implemented implemented in connection o f an item or service associated with a stop location. with any notification system, for example, as at least part o f FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary the architecture, ii.mc:tionality, and operation of the BS implementation of a response system feedback analyzer analyzer of manager o f FIGS. 1 and 3. the present invention, which is optionally implemented as at s FTG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating an exempla ry impleD least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation o f mentation of a secure notification messaging system (and the BS manager of FIGS. and 3. method) that can be optionally implemented in connection FIG. 9A is a fl flow ow char t illustrating an exemplary imple· with any notification system, for example, as at least part o f mentation of the modify step in the response system feed· the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS back analyzer of FIG. 8, whi ch is optionally implemented as 55 manager o f FIGS. 1 and 3. at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation shows a possible screen message that can be FIG. 16A the of BS manager o f FIGS. and 3. shown a notified PCD during a notification notification commun ica· on 9B is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary FIG tion for authentication purposes. implementation of the modify step in the response system system feedback analyzer o f FIG. 8, which is optionally impJe. 60 FIG. 17A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· m en ed as at least part o f he architecture, functionality, functionality, and mentation o f a first mobile thlng 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 communicated to the notification of the implementation modify in is theoptionally response system feedback analyzer o f FIG. 8, step which imple· fWlCtionalit ality, y, and mented as at least part o f he archite cture, fWlCtion operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3.

6

system) can be optionally in least connection with any that notification system, forimplemented example, as at part o f the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. and 3.

Exhibit A Page 7

 

US 7,119,716 B2

7

FIG. 178 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple mentation of a second mobile thing determination system and method system and method are based upon pickup and dropo:II locations that are communicated to the notification system) that can be optionally implemented in connection vit vith h any notification system, for example • as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. and 3

8

FIG. 20C is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple mentation of a third system (and method) for monitoring travel of MTs that are PCDs and communicating notifica tions and responses among the PCDs. Tills system can be optionally implemented in connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part o f the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. and 3.

FIG. 17C is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple FIG. 21 is an illustration of an exemplary system with mentation of a third mobile thing determination system (an (and d 10 various PCDs being tracked, communicating notifications to method; sys-tem and method are based upon the detected other PCDs, and receiving responses from the other PCDs, location of the PCD and/or user) that can be optionally all by way of a base station control unit. implemented in connection with wit h any notification system for f IG. 22 is an illustration of an exemplary system with a example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, PCD in the form of a first IlllViga IlllVigatio tion n syst em (a) tracking its and 3. and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 15 location, b) communicating a notificat notification ion to another PCD in FIG.17D is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· the form of a second navigation system, and (c) receiving a mentation of a fourth mobile thing determination system response from the second navigation system, either indi and method; system and method are based upon the rectly by way of a base station control unit or directly from detected location o f the PCD and/or user) that can be navigation system to navigation system. optionally implemented n connection with any notification 20 FIG. 23 is an illustration of a possible architecture for system, for example, as at least part o f the architecture, implementing the direct commlllications configuration functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. between a tracked PCD in the form o f an in-vehicle navic and 3. gation system and one or more other PCDs. FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple FIG. 24 is a continuation of the example in FIG. 23 and mentation of a combined mobile-thing-to-location (MTTL) 25 shows implementation of response requests and failure and device-to-location (DTL) notification system (and states.

method) be in can optionally connection with any that notification system, forimplemented example, as at least part of

FIGS. 25A through 25D illustrate examples o f possible failure states the can be shown on the screen of the tracked the architecture: functionality, and operation o f the BS PCD. manager of FIGS. and 3. 30 FIG. 26 is an illustration o f an embodiment of a stop list FIG. 19A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple generation system that may be used in connection with a mentation o f a first system (and method) for making more delivery vehicle. A stop list is compiled based upon whether accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predica or not a stop requires a response and whether or not a ment data. 1bis system can be optionally implemented in response has been received from such stops that require one. connection with any notification system, for example, as at 35 FIG. 27 is an illustration of an embodiment o f a stop list least part o f he architecture, functionality, and operation of generation system that may be used in connection with a the BS manager of FIGS. and 3. delivery vehicle. A notified party is given a predetermined FIG.19B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple imple time period to respond until a failure state is reached. The mentation of a second system (and method) for making more existence of failure states (No Responses) and confirmations accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predica- 4D are communicated to the PCD associated with the delivery ment data. Thi > system can be optionally implemented in vehicle. connection with any notification system, for example, as at FIG. 28 is an illustration of an embodiment o f a ~ n p list least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of generation system that may be used in connection with a the BS manager of FIGS. and 3. delivery vehicle. A delivery vehicle driver can select or FIG.19C is a flow cbart illustrating an exemplary imple· 45 mentation of a third system (and method) for making more accurate notifications by considering traffic flow predica m e nt data. Tills system can be optionally implemented in

connection with any notification system, for example, as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of 50

otherwise indicate which o f the confirmed notified parties will be visited by the delivery vehicle. FIG. 29 is an illustration o f an embodiment o f a stop list generation system that may be used in connection with a delivery vehicle. TI1e PCD associated with the delivery vehicle and driver communicates with the BSCU in order to determine whether or not a response pertaining to a stop has been received. FIG. 30 is an 111ustration of an embodiment that can be implemented at the BSCU or MTCU showing implemen implementa ta tion of failure states in connection with responses and nonresponsess to notification communications in the context nonresponse of a delivery vehicle.

and 3. FIG. 20A is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imp lea mentation of a first system (and method) for monitoring travel of MTs that are PCDs and communicating notifica tions 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 BS manager of FIGS. 1 FIG. 31 is an illustration o f another embodiment that can and 3. FIG. 20B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple· 60 be implemented at the BSCU or MTCU showing implemen tation of failure states n connection with responses and mentation o f a second system (and method) for monitoring nonresponses nonrespons es to notificat notification ion communications in the context travel of MTs that are PCDs and communicating notifica notifica o f a deUvery vehicle. tions and responses among the PCDs. This system can be the BS manager of FIGS.

optionall y implement any notificatio notification n system, for example,ed asinatconnection least part with of the architecture, functionality, and operation o f the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3.

65

FIG. 32 is an illustration of an embodiment o f route data and corresponding driver display data that can be maintained and implemented in connection with a delivery or pickup service.

Exhibit A Page 72

 

US 7,119,716 B2 10

9

bus transit system); U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,176 (for a public bus FIG. 33 shows an example of a possible user interl'ace transit system); application Ser No. 09/163,535, filed on that can generated by the GUI FIG. 3 used screen be of and Sep. 30, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,739 (for a public transit in connection with the response systems (and methods). system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,736,940 (tracking system for buses; FIG. 34 shows an example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the GUI of FJG. 3 and used s notice of impending arrival is described); U.S. Pat. No. 5,808,565 (GPS triggered automatic enunciator for public in connection with the response systems (and methods). transportation transportatio n vehicles tha t notifies notifies of a stop based upon the FIG. 35 shows an example of a possible user interface location of the vehicle); U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,974 (apparatus screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used

in connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 36 shows an example of a possible user interface screen that can be generaled by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 37 shows an example of a possible user interlace screen that can be generated by the GUI o f FIG. 3 and used in connectio n with the response systems (and methods). methods). FIG. 38 shows an 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). methods). FIG. 39 shows an example o f 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). FIG. 40 shows an example of an email that can be· generated and sent by the BSCU 40 of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methods). FIG. 41 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary implementation of a c o m p u t e r ~ b s e d notification failure

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 tlme 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 communi15 cates 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. 6,178,378 (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 20 users when a next vehicle will arrive at their boarding site). All of the aforementioned patents or applications are incor porated herein by reference in their entirety. The inventions that are claimed in this document can be implemented and practiced in the systems described in the foregoing patents. Furthermore, Furthermo re, a nonexhaustive list of examples of, what 25 appear to be tracking systems, are as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 5,014,206; U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,185; U.S U.S.. Pat. No. 5,155,689; detection system implemen ted in cmmection with a notified notified U.S. Pat. No. 5,168,451 (transit system for dispatching PCD. vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 5,223,844; U.S. Pat. No. 5,243,529 FIG. 42 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary imple 30 (in-vehicle navigation apparatus with map display); U.S. mentation of notification failure detection software of FIG. Pat. No. 5,299,132; U.S. Pat. No. 5,394,332 (on-board 41 navigation system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,398,190; U.S. Pat. No. 5,432,841 5,432 ,841 (system for locating and communicating with DETAILED DESCRJPTJON mobile vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 5,448,479; U.S. Pat. No. 35 5,483,454; U.S. Pat. No. 5,519,621; U.S. Pat. No. 5,587,715 A Notification System (describes a satellite based tracking system); U.S. Pat No. The system systemss and methods of his patent applicati on can be 5,594,650 (describes a tracking system with map display implemented in connection with any type of notification capabilities); U.S. Pat. No. 5,652,707; U.S. Pat. No. 5,724, service or system, messaging system, information system, 243 (on board vehicle system tracks location and expected data communications system, or tracking system, that noti 40 time of arrival); U.S. Pat. No. 5,739,774 (mass transit fies a party o f travel status associated with one or more monitoring system); U.S. Pat. No. 5,760,742 (integrated moving things {all referr ed to herein as notification sys mobile GIS/GPS/AVL with wireless messaging); U.S. Pat. tem ). The notification system may or may not have a No. 5,796,365 (uses satellites, vehicle tracking units, and a tracking subsystem that actually directly or indirectly tracks central computer); U.S. Pat. No. 5,922,040 (vehicle posithe mobile things (MIS), but has access to information or 45 tioning data is exchanged between vehicles and a central 10

data, perhaps from a tracking system(s) or data source, that can be used by it to monit or travel of the :MTs There are a

processor having a map display); U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,919 (dispatch system tracks vehicles); U.S. Pat. No. 6,191,708 number of such notification, messaging, and tracking sys (vehicle location tracking without satellites satellites); ); U.S. Pat. No. tems that are known in the art. 6,253,148 (tracks buses and communicates waiting times to As mentioned in the Background, Mr Martin Kelly Jones so radio receivers); an d U.S. Pat. Pat. No. 6,360,101 (cellular phone has been an active pioneering inventor in this area and has that displays or sends messages upon its arrival at a prede filed applications for patent 011 various notification systems, termined location). location). All of thes thesee me ntioned patents or appli a few of which, are as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,020; U.S. cations are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Pat. No. 5,444,444; U.S. Pat. No. 5,623,260; U.S. Pat. No. The inventions that are claimed in this document can be 5,647,0 10; U.S. Pat. No. 5,648,770; U.S. Pat. No. 5,657,010; 5,657,010; 55 implemented and practiced in the systems described in these U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,543; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,020; U.S. mentioned patents. Pat. No. 6,278,936; U. S. Pat. No. 6,3 6,31 1 7,060; U.S. Pa Pat. t. No. The claimed systems (and methods) of the invention can 6,363, 323; U.S. Pat. No. 6,363,254; U.S. Pat Pat.. No. 6,411,891; be implemented in many other known notific notification ation systems systems,, U.S. Pat. No. 6,415,207; U.S. Pat. No. 6,492,912; U.S. Pat. messaging systems, or tracking systems, that notifY a party No. 6,510,383; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,618,668. All of the 6 of travel status associated with one or more moving things foregoing patents are incorporated herein by reference in and that are not specifically referenced, shown, or described their entirety. Ibe inventions that are claimed near the end in this document for reasons of simplicity. of this document can be implemented and practiced in the As a nonlimiting example, FIG. 1 depicts a notification the foregoing patents, as will be clear systems described from the discussioninthat follows.

A nonexhaustive list of other examples of notification systems is as follows: U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,159 (for a public

65

10 illustrating a possible context, among others, in systemthe which invention may be implemented. As shown by FIG.

1, the notification system 10 has a tracking aspect and a notification aspect.

Exhibit A Page 7

 

US 7,119,716 B2

12

11

signals 21 received from GPS satellites 23 in order to determine the sensor's location val values. ues. Since the sensor 18 is located within MTCU 15, the location values determined by the sensor 18 are assumed to match the location values of the MT 17 and the MTCU 15.

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, limous ine, 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. The notification service can be implemented in connec tion with any vehicle 17 for delivering items to a destination or for picking 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 passeng ers at differen differentt bus stops or such as when an airplan airplanee picks up and/or delivers passengers at airpor airports. ts. Although not necessary for implementation, the MT 17 can travel along a predetermined route or modifiable route in making its deliv eries, and the MT 17 may make one or more stops along its route in order to deliver or pick up different items at different

A location value can be any value or set o f values values that may

be used to detennine a location of a point on the Earth or within the Earth's atmosphere. This value may be a coor

dinate value (i.e., grid value), polar value, vector value, 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

10

may determine MT location infonnation and merely trans mit the position information to the MT 17. For example,

15

20

25

radar could be used to remotely track the M f 17 and then the radar system could be designed to convey MT position information to the MT 17 (and/or the base station control unit (BSCU) 40, which will be described in detail hereinafter). In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 may be the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (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 industry as ASDI, which stands for Aircraft Situation Display for Industry. Th.is data feed can be accessed by the BSCU

the MTCU

40 (and/orembodiments,15). locations. In alternative the positioning system 23 The notification service can also be implemented in may be asE>ociated with a computer system server commucormection with any services to be delivered, or perfonned 30 nicatively coupled to the Internet that makes location infor at or near, a destination. The notification service can be mation pertaining to the M f 17 available to the BSCU 40 implemented in connection with the following nonlimiting and/or to the MTCU 15 over the Internet. In such embodi list of examp examples: les: mai d service, pest control, telephone repair ments, it is also possible for the BSCU 40 to communicate or installation, television repair, cable repair or installation, the server's uniform resource locator (URL) to the notified garbage pickup, yard maintenance, pool maintenance, power 35 PCD 75, which can be equipped with a web browser, so that meter maintenance/reading, etc. location information pertaining to the tracked f 17 (as B Mobile Thln Thlng g Control Unit (MTCU) well as the PCD 75) can be accessed by the notified PCD 75 sensor 18 within MTC MTCU U from the serve server. r. In the preferred embodiment, a sensor 15 is configured to sense signals to help determine and/ and/or or In alternative embodiments, the positioning system 23 determine the location of the sensor 18 relative to a prede- 40 may be a tracking system that tracks a vehicle's progress termined reference point. Tn the preferred embodiment embodiment,, along a predete nnined route based upon its arrival at and/or sensor 18 is a global global positioning system (GPS) ssensor( ensor(s), s), departure from from stops along the route. although other types of posi positi tion onin ing g sys syste tems ms ((ha havi ving ng cornRe Refe ferr rrin ing g back back to FIG. 1, sensor 18 is designed to transmit ponents that are local to and/or remote from the MTCU 15) a signal 27 to MT manager 29 indicating the MT s current and/or senso sensors rs are also possible. For example, other types of 45 location values. MT manager 29 is configured to receive positioning systems that may be used include, but are not signal2 7 and to monitor the location of the MT 17 overtime limited to, GLONASS, LORAN, Shoran, Decca, TACAN, by processing multiple signals 27. The M I manager 29 can radar, traffic traffic system monitoring monitoring,, a system for monitorin monitoring g be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination vehicle stops along a route, or any other of numerous thereof. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated by way possible tracking systems or combi combination nationss thereo f t s also so of example in FIG. 2, the MT manager 29 along with its possible to indirectly monitor the location of the MT 17 by associated methodology is implemented in software and monitoring or tracking pickup or delivery of people, pr prodstored in computer memory 30a of a computer system 31a. ucts, packages, or things that are transported by the M f 17. Note that the MT manager 29 can be stored and transThe GPS sensor 18 o f the prefer preferred red eembo mbodim diment ent is is con confi figgported ported on an any y compu computer ter-re -readab adable le med medium ium fo forr use by or in ured to receive signals 21 from a plurality of GPS satellites 55 e,;onnection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, 23, and as known in the art, sensor 18 is designed to analyze or device, such as a computer-based system, processorsignals 21 in order to determine th e se nsor's location or containing system, or other system that can fetch the n s t r u ~ coordinate values relative to a predetermi ned refer reference ence tions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or point. For example, in the preferred embodiment where device and execute the instructions. In the context of this sensor 18 is a GPS sensor, the sensor 18 determines the 6 document, a computer-readable medium can be any sens or' s location values relative to the Earth 's zer zero o degr degree ee means that can contain, stor store, e, communicate, pro propagate, pagate, or latitude and zero degree longitude reference point, which is transport the program for use by or in connection with the located at the intersection of the Equator and the Prime Prime instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The

Meridian. U.S. Pat. No. 5,7R1,156 entitled, GPS Receiver

and Method for for Processing GPS GPS Signals and fil filed ed on Apr.

23, 1997 by Krasner, which is incorporated herein by reference, discusses a sensor for the processing of GPS

65

computer medium can be, for example but not limited to, readable an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples a nonexhaus-

Exhibit A Page 7

 

US 7,119,716 B2 13

14

tive list) of the computer-readable medium wm1ld include the following: an electrical connectio n (electronic) having one or more wires, a portable compute r diskette (magne1i (magne1ic), c), a random access access memory (RAM) (magnet (magnetic), ic), a read-only memory (ROM) (magnetic), an erasable programm able read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory) (magn (magnetic), etic), an optical fiber fiber (optical), and a portable compac t disc r e d ~ o n l y memory (CDROM) (optical). Note that the o m ~

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 begins timing or counting in response to a start signal transmitted y the MT manager 29. Therefore, the MT manag er 29 transmits the start signal when the M f 17 starts the route, and thereafter, the MT manager 29 can determine the amount of time that has lapsed since the start of the route by analyzing the value of

puter-readable medium could even be paper or another another the clock 38a. Other devices 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 prog ram can be electronically captured, 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 predetcnnincd route of piled, piled, in interp terprete reted d or otherwise otherwise processed processed in a suitabl suitablee man man-travel travel,, the MT manager 29 is configured to determine the ncr if necessary, and then stored in a computer memor memory. y. As MT' s current position by analyzi analyzing ng the location values from an example, the MT manager 29 may be magnetically stored 15 the sensor 18. Furthermore, Furthermore, as the MT 17 travels, the MT 1 7 and and transpo transported rted o on n a conve convention ntional al por portabl tablee compu computer ter disdispass passes es the points points or locations along the route that are defined kette. in the MT schedule 39a. The MT manager 29 is designed to An exemplary embodiment of he computer system 31a of compare the current location values of he MT 17 (i.e., of he 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 p r o ~ 20 schedule 39a in order to determine which entry in the MT cessors (DSPs), or other suitable process processing ing means, means, tthat hat schedule 39a cor corresponds responds with the current location of the communicate to and drive the other element elementss w within ithin the MT 17. In the preferred embodiment, the entry that c o r r e ~ system 31a via a loca locall interface 33a, which can include one sponds with the e1ment e1ment llocati ocation on of the MT 17 is the entry or more buses. Furthennore, an input device device(s) (s) 34a, 34a, for having location vah1es most closely matching the location example, a keyboard, mouse, or trackbal1, can be used to 25 values currently supplied by the sensor 18 In other words, input data from a user of the system 31a, a nd screen the correspondi ng entry includes location values representof

36a

display(s) or a printer(s) can mechanism be used to output data ing the loca location tionbethat is closest to the location the MT 17. to the user. user.35a A nonvolatile disk storage 37 a can be This entry will referred to here hereinafter inafter as the correspondconnected to the local interface 33a to transfer data to and ing entry. from a nonvolatile disk (e.g., magnetic, optical, etc.). It 30 After detennining which entry corresponds with the curshould be noted that input device 34a, displa display y 35a printer rent location of the MT 17, the MT manager 29 is designe designed d 36a, and disk storage mechanism 37a are optional and are to determine whether the MT 17 is off schedule or on not a part of the prefer red embodiment , althou gh other schedule. The MT 17 is off schedule if the amount of time that bas lapsed since the start of the route differs from an embodiments may include these features. TI1c MT manager 29 is preferably configured configured to maintain 35 estimated lapsed lapsed time by a predetennined amount oftim e. In a predefined MT schedule 39a within memory 30a. The the p preferred referred eembodiment mbodiment,, the estimated lapsed time is predefined MT schedule 39a corresponds with a route of represented by the time value in the corresponding entry of travel for the MT 17. In this regard, the predefin ed MT the MT schedule 39a. As an example, assume for illustrat ive schedule 39a stored in memor y 30 a includes data defining purposes only that the predeterm ined amonnt of time is five locations along the MT's intended route of travel. Further- 40 minutes. f he MT manager 29 determines that the differmore, each location is associate d with a particular time value ence between the actual lapsed time since the start of the trip indicating when the MT 17 is expected to reach the s s o c i ~ and the estimated lapsed time (i.e., the time value in the ated location. location. Each Each time value along with its its associat associated ed corresponding entry) is greater than five minutes, then the location defme defmess an entry in the MT schedule 39a. MT 17 is off schedule. Otherwise the MT 17 is on schedule. In the preferred embodiment, the time value corresponds 45 Furthennore, if the MT 17 is off schedule, then the MT to the estimated amount o f time that should lapse betwee between n the time that the MT 17 starts ts intended route and the time that the M f 17 reaches the associated location along the route. However, other time values may be used. For example, the time of day that the MT 17 is expected to reach the associated location may be used. Any time value that indicates when the MT 17 is expected to reach the associated associated location is sufficient However, for illustrative purposes, the system will e discussed herein after assuming that the time values in the entries of he M T schedul schedulee 39a conform to the pref erred embodiment (i.e., that the time values represent the amount of time that should lapse between the time tha thatt the MT 17 starts its its intended route and the time that the MT 17 reaches the associat associated ed location along the route) route).. The MT manager 29 is configured to monitor the amount of time that lapses as the MT 17 travels along the MT' s route. For example, the computer system 31a can inc include lude a clock 38a that indicates the time of day In this situation, the MT 29 the is configured to store time va1ue of the the clockmanager 38a when MT 7 begins the the route. Therefore, MT manager 29 can detennine the amount of time that has lapsed since the start of the route by comparing the curr current ent

s

55

6

65

manager 29 is also designed to determine whether the MT 17 is early or late. If the actual time lapsed sin ce the start of 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 less than the estimated lapsed time, then the MT 17 is early. Alternatively, the MT manager 29 can be configured to sele select ct the corresponding corresponding eentry ntry in the predefined schedule 39a via compar ison of time values instead of location values. In this regard, the MT manag er 29 can be configured to compare the current time value indicated by the clock 38a (e.g., the lapsed time since the start of the route) with the time values in the entries of the MT schedule 39a. The corresponding corresponding entry is then the entry in MT schedule 39a having the estimated time value that differ differss the least with the actual time value indicated by clock 38a. In this situation, the :MT manager 29 compares the current location values from sensor 18 with the location values associated with the correspond ing entry of the MT schedule or not the MT 17 is on 39a in order If to schedule. thedetermine location whether values differ by more than a predefined threshold value, then the MT 17 is off schedule. Otherwise, the MT MT 7 is on schedule. Furthennore, if the

Exhibit Page

 

7

US 7,119,716 B2

15

acrual location of the M f 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 corresponding entry), then the MT 17 is early. If the location associated with the corresponding entry (as defined by the location value s i n the correspon ding en en1Iy 1Iy)) is further along the route of ravel than the actua actuall location o f he T 17 (as defined by

16 the communications device 44, such as the mobile identifi-

cation number (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 feature request transmitted over the data channel. As examples, U.S. Pat. No. 5,771,445 entitled, Data Messag Messag-ing in a Communications Network using a Feature Request, filed on Dec. 15, 1995, by Kennedy, lll, et al., and U.S. Pat.

the curr ent location value valuess from sensor 18), then the MT 17 No. 5,546,444 entitled, Methods and Apparatus for Com10 municating Data Via a Cellular is late. Cellular Network Control Channel filed on :Mar. 11, 1994; by Roach, Jr., et al., which are both In response to a determination by the MT manager 29 that the MT 17 is off schedule, the M f manager 29 is designed incorporated incorporate d herein by reference, discuss the transmission of travel data over a data or control channel associated with the to transmit a status message to base station control unit 40 cellular network 48 in further detail. Also, see U.S. Pat. No. (BSCU; FIG. 1; essentially, the host computer), which is remotely located from the MT 17. The status message 5 5,526,401, which is incorporated herein by reference and which describes a system for communications over a wire· preferably indicates indicates that M I 17 is off schedule and indicates less network as well as text messaging to personal pagers. the amount that M I 17 is off schedule. U.S. Pat. No. Also, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,544,225, which is incorporated 6,363.254 entitled, entitled, System and Me Method thod for Enciphering Enciphering and Communicating Vehicle Tracking Information, herein by reference and which describes a system for com· describes a system and meth od for transmitting messages messages to 20 munications over a wireless network as well as communi· BSCU 40. The foregoing docwnent is incorporated herein cation of he location or status information of a mobile item. by reference. In order to transmit the status message through a data channel by manipulating identifiers of the communications C. Base Station Control Unit (BSCU) device 44, the MIN of the communications device 44 is BSCU 40 preiE:rably, although not necessarily, includes a 25 altered to include the status message, but the ESN remains base station (BS) manager 41 designed to monitor the travel fixed to be used as an identifier of the communications of each MT 17 associated with the notification system 10. In device 44. Therefore, after transmitting the identifiers the prefe1Ted embodiment, although not limited to this through the data channel, channel, the communications device 44 can implementation, unlike the MTCU 15, the BSCU 40 is be identified by the E.. ;N, and the status message can be non-mobile (although it could be in some embodiments). As 30 determined from the MJN. Alternatively, the ESN of com· an example, the BSCU 40 can be located in a central office munications device 44 can be altered while the MJN is kept o f a telephone company. constant. It should be understood that the invention contem· TI1e BS manager 41 can be implemented in software, plates modification of the MIN, ESN, both the MIN and hardware, or a combination thereof. n the preferredembodi· ESN, or other identi identifiers fiers of he communications device 44 to ment, as illustrated by way of example in FIG. 3, the BS staru ru.s .s messages an d 35 accomplish the dual task of ransmit ting sta manager 41 along with its associated methodology is impleidentifying the communications device 44. mented in software and stored in computer memory 30b of Alternatively or in combination with the manipulation of a computer system 31b. The computer system 31b can be the identifiers of the communications device 44, the status similar to computer system 31a, as can be seen by compar. message can be communicated through the d t channel by ing FIG. 2 to FIG. 3. In this regard, the comp uter system 31b 40 appending the status message to feature requests that are may include memory 30h for storing the BS manager 41, transmitted through the data channel. In this regard, most and the computer system lb may also include processing feature requests are generated by automatically or manually element 32b for executing software, local interface 33b for dialing the star key ( *'') followed by a two·digit feature connecting the various components, input device(s) 34b request identification code, and 29 digits of data. Therefore, (e.g., mouse, keyboard, etc.), display(s) 35b, printer(s) 36b 45 for each feature request generated, 29 digits of data pertain· and nonvolatile storage device(s) 37b. In the preferred embodiment, transceiver (TX/RX) devic device(s) e(s) 52, 72 include include

ing to the status message can be appended to the 1\vo·digit feature request identification code and sent over the data one or more suitable network interfaces that allow the channel of the wireless cellular network 48. Ot her embodi • system 31b to communicate data in connection with network ments may t ransmit different amounts of data following the 55 (FIG. 1). so feature request By utilizing the manipulation of identifiers D. Transmission of a Status Message or the appendage of travel data to feature requests, less data In order to transmit the status message to the BSCU 40, is transmitted through the voice channels of the cellular the I vfi manager 29 is configured to transmit the status network 48, thereby reducing the cost of transmitting data message, via signa143 (FIG. 1), to a communi cations device throug h the cellular netw ork 48. 48. dataa to 55 In order for successfUl communication to exist between 44, which is capable of transmitting and receiving dat and from devices outside of MT 17. n this regard, commu· MT manager 29 and BS manager 41, both managers 29 and nications device 44 is preferably, although not necessary, a 41 shou ld be aware of the communications protocol utilized. cellular modem configured to transmit and receive wireless wireless Therefore, it is desirable for the BS manager 41 or the MT signals to and from a cellular network 48 (FIG. 1). manager 29 to initially transmit an instruction via the data The commWlications device 44 can transmit the status 60 channel of the cellular network 48 to the other manager 29 message over the voice channels associated with the cellular or 41 indicating the protocol to be utilized. Thereafter, the network 48, as is done by most cellular modems of the prior f manager 29 transmits messages to the BS manager 41 art. However, in order to reduce the cost associated with via the selected selected protocol. tran smitt ing the travel data through the cellular network 48, Cellul ar network 48 is designed to transmit the status the status message may be communicated through the celw 65 message to a communications device 52 (FIG. 1) at tbe lular network 48 via a data or control channel. In this regard, BSCU 40. Although not necessary for implementation, the status message can be encoded by altering identifiers of cellular network 48 is preferably designed to transmit to the Exhibit A Page 76

 

US 7,119,716 B2 17

18

communications device 52 via a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 55. In this regard, PSTN 55 establishes a link between communications device 52 and cellular network 48, whereby cellular network 48 and communications communications device 52 can corrummicate signnls 61 and 65, which are transmitted over land-line connections in the preferred embodiment. Therefore, communications device 52 is pref erably designed as or to include a PSTN modem capable o f communicating signals 65 between BS manager 41 and PSTN network 55.

the f manager 29, begins monitoring the amount of time lapsed since the start o f the route.

In the preferred embodiment, the base station schedule 39b stored in memory 30b matches the M I schedule 39a stored in memory 30a, although variations in the two predefined schedules 39a and 39b are possible. Furthermore, Furthermore, the BS manager 41 is configured to retrieve an entry, the "corresponding entry," in the base station schedule 39b 10

Although the preferred embodiment utilizes a cellular

corresponding with the amou nt of time lapsed since the MT

17 began travelling its route. In this regard, the BS manager 41 compares the amount of time that has lapsed since the MT

17 began its route (as determined from the clock Bb at the

network 48 and a PSTN network 55 to communicate travel

BSCU 40) with the time values in the base station schedule data to BS manager 41, one ordinarily skilled 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, communica communications tions device 5 2 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 111 with cellular network 48. Altematively, utilization of com 17 began its route).

munications networks 48 and 55 can be completely circum The BS manager 41 assumes that the MT 17 is on vented by configuring the communications device 44 to 20 schedule, unless-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 that has been received by the BS manager 41 within a

between MT manager 29 and BS manager 41 should be

suitable.

predetermined time. For example, a recent status message should be noted that by transmitting a status message 25 could be the latest status message received within the last only when the MT 17 is off schedule reduces the cost o f five minutes, or at the start of a route, or some other suitable operating the notification system 10. In this regard, com if not 41 time frame. Therefore, the BS has 29, munication through a cellular network 48 is relatively received a recent status message frommanager the MT manager 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 from 30 the corresponding entry of he predefined base station sched the MT manager 29 to the BS manager 41 when the M I 17 ule 39b indicate the current location of the MT 17. is on schedul schedule, e, the amoun t of data transmitted through the Recalling that BS manager 41 (when employed within the cellular network 48 is reduced, thereby reducing the com context of notification system 1 0) is to transmit a notification munications cost associated with the notification system 10. message when the MT 17 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 r 17 is off schedule enables the notification corresponding entry (which represent the current location o f system 10 to minimize costs. It should be noted that the the MT 17) with location values defining the predetermined foregoing feature is optional. proximity. lf the location values from the corresponding 40 entry differ from the location values o f the predetermined E. Base Station Manager proximity by less than a predetermined amount, then the BS BS manager 41 is designed to monitor the travel of the manager 41 transmits a notific notification ation message to the user. MT 17 and (when employed in the context o f advance Otherwise no notification message is transmitted to the user. notification syste system m 10) is al also so desi design gned ed to tra trans nsm m it a noti noti-Alte Altern rnat ativ ivel ely, y, tthe he BS manager 41 can be configured to fication message to a user when the MT 17 is a predeter- 45 compare time values instead of location values in order to lt

mined proximity ± om a particular MT destination or other location. The predetermined proximity can be a particular time or distance that the MT 17 is from the destination. If he MT 17 is off schedule, then the BS manage r 41 is further configured to transmit a message to the user indicating that

the MT 17 is off schedule. The BS manager 41 of tracking notification notification system 10 is designed to detennine the current location o f he MT 17 and to compare the current location of he MT 17 to a predefined location along the route o f travel of the MT 17 in order to determine whether notification should be sent to the user. In this regard, like the MT manager 29, the BS manager 41 includes a predefined schedule 39b, referred herein as the base station schedule 39b, in memory 30b. Furthermore, similar to the computer system 31a (FIG. 2), the computer system 31b (FIG. 3) includes a clock 39b or other type of counter that can be used to determine the amount oftime that has lapsed since the MT 17 started traveling along the MT's

s

55

6

determine whether a notification notification message should be transmitted to the user. In this regard, the BS manager 41 is designed to compare the time value in the corresponding entry with a predetermined threshold value indicating the amount oftime that should lapse between the MT 17 starting its route and arriving at a location associated with the predetermined proximity (e. (e.g., g., a threshold value ind indicating icating how long the MT 17 should travel along its route before notificati on shoul d be sent to the user). f he threshold value in the corresponding entry exceeds the predetermined time value, then the BS manager 41 causes a notification message to be communicated to the user: f the BS manager 41 of notification system 10 has receiv ed a recent status message from the MT manager 29, then the BS manager 41 determines the actual location values o f the MT 17 based on the location values in the corresponding entry and the recent status message. In this regard, the location values in the corresponding entry repMT

route. When the MT 17 begins thetoroute, route , the MT manager 29 resent the estimated location of the 17. The status preferably transmits a message the BS manager 41 via 65 message indicates how much the MT 17 is oft schedule (i.e., (i.e., communications devices 44 and 52 indicating that travel on bow far the MT 17 is from the estimated location). For the route is beginning. In response, the BS manager 41, like example, the status messag e can indicate that the MT 17 is Exhibit

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US 7,119,716 B2 20

19

aud1ble, text, and/or other message that can be communi· cated. A PCD 75 is a communications device that can be personally associated with a party and enable poinHo·point communications between the notificat notification ion system 10 and the party. Nonlimiting examples o f PCDs 75 are as follows: a personall computer (PC) capable of displaying the notificapersona tion through e·mail or some other communications softwarl\ a television, a wireless (e.g., cellular, satellite, etc.) or non·wireless telephone, a pager, a personal data assistant, a above. Furthermore, instead o f indicating how far 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 far the MT 17 is from the with some type of user perceptible emissi emission. on. Many, although estimated locati location on via a time value (e.g., the status message not all, PeDs 75 are transportable. Furthermore, a plurality can indicate that the MT 7 is ten minutes late). In this case, o f communications devices 72 may exist in some applica· the BS manager 41 is designed to adjust the time value in the 5 tions, so that the BS manager 41 can simultaneously or corresponding entry to account for the MT 17 being off substantially concurrently notify a plurality of parties having schedule. For examp example, le, if the MT 17 is early, then the time respective devices 72 of he impending arriv arrival al of he MT 17 value in the corresponding entry is increased a correspond· at a particular MT stop. ing amount, 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 o f the features described in this docu· amount. This adjusted tim e value is then compared with the ment are portable wireless telephones having image capa· predetermined threshold value described hereinabove in bilities (e.g., a Sanyo Model 8100 wireless PCS vision order to dete detem1in m1inee whether notification should be sent. lf he picture phone distributed by Spri Sprint, nt, a Sony Ericsson T300 adjusted time exceed<; the predetennined 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. Fomm; see WAP Version 2.0 specification at www.wapfo·

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 M f 17. Therefore, by using the new location values instead of the values in the corresponding entry, the BS manager 41 can determine whether a notification message should be sent to the user according to the methodology described herein-

In an alternati alternative ve embodiment, the location values trans· mitred in the status message ca n represent the actual location of the T 17 instead o f representing how far the M r 17 is

off schedule. In this embodiment,. the BS manager 41 can be 30 designed to directly comp are these location values with with the

location values defining the predetennined proximity in notification should be sent to the order to determine whether notification user. Accordingly, if these location values differ from the location values defining the predetermined proximity by less than a predetermined amount, then the BS manager 41 tran smit s a notifica tion message to the use user. r. Otherwlse, no notification message is sent to the user. user. Furthermore, when the BS manager 41 determines that the MT 17 is off schedule, the BS manager 41 preferably transmits an off schedule message to the user, as described hereinbelow, to notify the user that the MT 17 is off schedule. This message can include a variety of information including, but not limited, how much (in time or distance) noted that the MT 17 is off schedule. However, it should be noted communication of the o ff schedule mes message sage is not a neces. sary feature.

5

40

45

rum.org, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) can be implemented in connection with wirel wireless ess telephones in order to enable these telephones to cornmu· nicate with (send data packets to and or receive data packets from) computers or c o m p u t e r ~ b s e d devices, such as serv· ers, that are communicatively coupled to the World Wide Web (WWW) of the Internet (by way of their respective cellular or PCS networks). Note fllliher that the PCDs 75 can be non·standard input/output I/0) devices that can be communicated with over an open network, such as the Internet, using an extended open network protocol, such as extended HTML, as is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,742,845 and 5,905,908, both o f which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. Although the preferred embodiment utilizes a PSTN network 55 to communicate a notification or an off schedule message to PCD 75, one ordinarily skilled in the art s_hould

realize that other configurations are possible. For example, other communications communications networks can be utilized or utilizatio utilization n of communications nerntorks can be completely circum· F. Transmission o f Off Schedule and Notificat Notification ion Messages Messages vented by configuring communications device 72 to com· Once the BS manager 41 o f systems 10 and 12 determines 50 municate directly with communications device 73. Any that a notification.or notification.or an off schedule message should be sent communications system capable o f communicating data to a user, the BS manage r 41 is designed to communicate the between BS manager 41 and PCD 75 should be suitable. message to the user via PSTN network 55 and communica. As an example, the BS manager 41 may notify the user of the impending arrival of the MT 17 by transmitting a tions devices 72 and 73 (FIG. 1). In this regard, commu ni· cations devices 72 and 73 are or include PSTN transceiver 55 distinctive ring to the user s message devic device. e. In this embodi· ment, the the PCD 75 is a telephone. A distinctive ring is a modems capable of interfa cing wit h and communica ting with PSTN network 55. BS mana ger 41 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 notifY the user of a telephone call. Since the device 72, whi ch communicates the message with PTSN user can di differen fferentt the d differe ifferent nt ringing cadence, the user is network 55 via signal 74. PTSN network 55 then commu. 60 aware that the telephone call corresponds to a notification nicates the messag e 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 transmitting a distinc· transceiver, denoted by block 73, in the preferred embodi· tive telephone ring as the notification message is fully ment.

notifY fY the user and communicate PCD 75 is configured to noti a notification message, which may merely be a ring in the case of a telephone or pager, optionally accompanied by an

65

described in U.S. Patent Application entitle entitled, d, "Advance Notification System and Method Utilizing a Distinctive Telephone Ring, " assign ed Ser. No, 081762,052 and filed on Dec. 9 1996, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Exhibit A Page 8

 

US 7,119,716 B2

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22

G. Creation of the rviT and Base Station Schedules It should be noted that the predefined M I schedule 39a and the predefined base station schedule 39b can be determined or defined by a variety of methodologies. For example, the predetermined schedules schedules 39a and 9b 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 traffic conditions expected to be encountered during travel

T11e MT manager 29 is then designed to compare the deviation indictor to an alarm threshold value to determine whether an alarm signal should be transmitted to the BS manager 41. The alarm threshold value corresponds with the distance that the M f 17 can deviate from the predefined MT schedule 39a before an alann is generated. Therefore, if the deviation indicator exceeds the alarm threshold value, the MI manager 29 transmits an alarm message to the BS

5

However, in the preferred embodiment, the predefined schedules 39a and 9b are defined via a previous delivery of the MT 17 along the same route o f travel. In this regard, delivery vehicles 17 frequently travel the same routes. Thjs is especially tme for buses, for example, where a bus routinely travels the same route and makes the same stops. As the MT 17 is traveling the route, the MT manager 29 is configured to periodically read the sensor 18 and to store an entry in memory 3 0a. The entry preferably includes the current location values of the MT 17 indicated by sensor 18 and the time value indicated by clock 38a i.e., the time value indicating the amount of ime that has lapsed since the start of he travel on the route). Therefore, when the MT 17 reaches the end of he route, the MT manager 29 has stored numerous entries which define the predefined MT schedule 39a. This predefined schedule 39a may also be used as the base station schedule 39h. Other methodologies methodologies may be employed to define the M f schedule 39a and/or the

10

15

20

5

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 he MT 17 can be tracked by the BS manager 41. Providing an alarm message, as described hereinabove, helps to discover when an MT 17 has been stolen or hijacked and helps law enforcement agencies to recover the MT 17 by tracking the travel of the MT 17 once the MT 17 has been stolen. Tn this regard, the MT manager 29 automatically generatess an alarm message and monitors travel of the MT generate 17 once the MT 17 deviates from the M f schedule 39a by a predetermined amount. The alarm message can be used by law enforcement agencies to discover when the MT 17 has been stolen and where the MT 17 is located, thereby helping law enforcement agencies to recover the MT 17 once it bas been stolen. Because the deviation indicator is defmed relative to points along the MT s route of travel, an alarm can be when the

base station schedule 39b.

17

by

generated small amount. deviates from themanager route MT For example, relatively the MT 29a FIG. 4A is a flow chart depicting the operation and can be configured to transmit an alarm sign signal al when the MT functionality of the rviT manager 29 in embodiments where by 30 17 deviates from its predefined route approximately 20 the MT manager 29 determine <; the M f schedule 39a while 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 M manager 29 determines whether a sample generally generall y 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 predetermined amount of time that lapses 35 of sensor 18) be allowed so that the MT 17 can reasonably maneuver through traf traffic fic without generating false alanns. 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. This value can be entered into the whether the sample period has expired. For example, when 31a computer system by a h1una h1unan n operat or at the MT 17 via the clock 38a is a counter, the sample period can be defined input device 34a for example. Alternatively, this value can as a predetermined number of counts by the clock 38a. 40 communkated from the manager 41 to the M f be BS 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 munber of around the start of the route. The alarm threshold value can increments or cycles of the clock 38a. l ~ o be hardwired into the computer system 31a with When the MT manager 29 determines that the sample 45 switches that can be manipulated by a human operator in period has expired, the MT manager 29 samples the current order to selectively change the value. Many other methodlocation values of he MT 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 rvrr manager 29 determines the of the alarm threshold value. current location values of the MT 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 s desirable for the M manager 29 to generate an alarm signal entry of the MT schedule 39a, as depicted by blocks 78 and on based comparisons of the location of MT 17 to a 79. This process repeats until the MI manager 29 determines predefined geographical region instead of the route defined geographical that the MT 17 has completed the route. Thereafter, the MT in MT schedule 39a For example, it may desirable to define manager 29 can use the M f schedule 39a to track the MI s a regi on that is 30 miles or some other distance) from the progress on future deliveries that utilize the route defined by by 55 start of the route or some other particular locat location). ion). Then, the MT schedule 39a. the MT manager 29 can be configured to generate an alarm H Alarm System signal if the MT manager 29 determines that the MT 17 is The MT manager 29 can be configured to compare the outside of this predefined region based on the signals 27 corresponding cnlly and the location values supplied from received from sensor 18 Such a methodology for generating the sensor 18 in order to determine whether an alarm signal signal 60 an alarm signal is particularly suitable for applications should be generated. Jn this regard, the MT manager 29 where only local deliveries are expected, for example. preferably subtracts the location values in the corresponding There are various methodologies for determining whether entry from the current location values of the MT 17 as the MT 17 is outside of the predefined region. For example, to

determined by the 18) indicator produce_indicates a deviation cator. Therefore, thesensor deviation howindifar the MT 17 has deviated from the route defined by the M f schedule 39a.

65

one embodiment, the MT manger 29 subtracts the current in location values determined from signals 27 with the location values of a partic ular point e.g., the location values of the start of the route, when the region is defined as any point

Exhibit Page 79

 

US 7,119,716 B2 24

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 alarm threshold threshold value, the MT manager 29 generates an alarm signal. Othenvise, no alarm signal is generated.

BS manag manager er 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 MT schedule 39a is preferably transferred to the BS manager 41 via any suitable methodology and stored as

Furth er 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 o f 10 transported cargo. cargo. 1. Alternative Embodiment of the MTCU In an alternative embodiment of the MTCU, the "corre· spending entry" of the MT schedule 39a can be defined as

the base station schedule 39a For exampl example, e, the MT schedule 39a can be copied to a magnetic magnetic disk and later downloaded in memory Ob or a copy of the M schedule 39a can be transmitted to the BS manager 41 via communications devices 44 and 52. In embodiments where the MI schedule 39a is not previously created and stored by the MI manager 29, the :MT schedule 39a is preferably downloaded into both the BS manager 41 and the MT manager 29. t is possible to download the base station schedule 39a in the BS manager 41 and to transmit a copy of the base station schedule 39a to the MT manager 29 via communications devices 44 and 52 prior to the start o f the route. Any methodology for respectively storing the MT schedule 39a and the base station schedule 39b into the MT manager 29 and the BS manager 41 is suitable. When the MT 17 begins travel, the MT manager 29 stores the current value of he MT clock 38a and begins to monitor the amount of ime that lapses from that point until comple· tion o f the route. Furthermore, as can be seen by block 82 o f FIG. 4B, the MT manager 29 also transmits a start signal to

the entry having location values defining a location along the 15 MT 17. There fore, the MT manager 29 monitors the signals 27 from the sensor 18 until the MT manager 29 determines that the M I 17 passed a location corresponding with one of he entries in the MT schedule 39a. The MT manager 29 determines 20 whether the MT 17 is early or late via the t.echniques described hereinabove using the aforementioned entry as the corresponding entry. After determining whether to generate an alarm signal and/or status message for the corresponding entry (and after 25 generating the alarm signal and/or the status message, if necessary), the MT manager 29 monitors the signals 7 again for the next corresponding entry. Therefore, when a the base station manger 41 via devices 44n and 52 indicating that travel o f communications the M I 17 is beginning. corresponding entry is detected (i.e., when the MT manager the BS manager 41 begins to monitor the lapsed r e s p o n . ~ e 29 determines that the M I 17 passed a location correspond· 30 time as well. ing with the location values in one of the entries o f the M I In many situations, it may be desirable to begin monitor schedule 9a for the first time), the MT manager 29 analyzes ing travel of he MT 17 after the MT 17 starts its route. This the values of the sensor 18, the clock 38a, and the corre· is particularly true when unpredictable delays usually occur spending entry to determine whether an alarm signal and/or close to the staring point of he 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 generate another (i.e., at the school) where traffic is often congested. There status message. Therefore, the MT manager 29 detennines fore, instead of transmitting a start signal to the BS manager whether a status message message should be communicat ed to the BS 41 when the MT 17 begins traveling, the MT manager 29 manager 41 each time the M I 17 passes a location corre40 waits for a predetermined time period or until the M f 17 has spending with the location values in one of he entries of the traveled a predetennined dlstance from the ltarting point N T schedule 39a, and the MT manager 29 refrains from before transmitting the start signal. For example, the M I communicating status messages as the MT 17 travels manager 29 can monitor the travel o f the MT 17 from the between locations defined by the data in the MT schedule starting point via the sensor 18 and trdnsmit the start 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 iviT 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, si nce it is possible for the MT 17 not to pass any starting startin g poi nt 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 MT 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 o f 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 M f manager use the point where the MT manager 29 transmits the start 29 to be passed. 55 signal as the starting point for the route. Therefore, the J. Overall Notification Notification System Operation distances and times stored in the predetermined schedules 39a and 39b are relative to the predetermined location where A possible implementation o f use and operation of the notification system 10 and associated methodology are MT manager 29 transmits the start signal instead o f the actual starting point o f the route, However, this is not a described hereafter. For illustrative purposes only, assume 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 deli ver an item. stored in the predetermined schedules 39a and 39b may be relative to other points both along the route of travel and For exampl example, e, assume that the MT 17 is a bus that is to travel outside of the route of travel. to a bus stop to pick llp a passenger and that this passenger route that was roost recently passed by the

is to receive a notification signal when the MT 17 is ten minutes from the bus stop. Initially, the MT schedule 39a is stored in the :MT manager 29 and the base station schedule 39a is stored in the

6

As the MT 17 travels, GPS satellites 23 transmit wire]e.'ls signals 21 to sensor 18 that can be analyzed through tech niques well known in the art to determine a position (i.e., current location values) of the sensor 18 (and, therefore, of

Exhibit A Page 80

 

US 7,119,716 B2

25

26

the MT 17) relative to a particular reference point, as depicted by block 85 of FIG. 48. For example, in GPS systems, the intersection o f the Equator and the Prime Meridian is typically used as the reference point. Sensor 18 receives the signals 21 and determines location values representing the position of the MT 17 relative to the reference point and trdnsmits these values to M f manager 29.

In order to reduce the number o f transmissions between the MT 17 and the base station control unit 40, the M I manager 29 preferably although not necessary) transmits transmits the status message to the BS manager 41 only if another status message has not been transmitted within a p r e e t e r ~ mined delay period. For example, if a status message has been sent within a predetermined time period, for example,

TI1e MT manager 29 compares the current locatio n values o f the MT 17 with the location values in the MT schedule 1 9a in order to determine which entry in the MT schedule

from sending another status message. It should be apparent 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. Furthennore, it is possible to selectively control the delay

within the last five minutes, then the MT manager 29 refrains

39a corresponds with the current location of the MT 17, as shown by block 87 o f FIG. 4B. The corresponding entry is preferably the entry having location values that most closely period. For example, when the MT 17 stops to make a match the current location values received from the sensor 15 delivery or is slowly traveling through congested areas, it may be desirab desirable le to increase the delay period to decrease the 18. After selecting the corresponding entry, the MT manager number of status messages sent to the BS manager 41. 29 retriev retrieves es the locat location ion value valuess as assoc sociate iated d wit with h th thee cor corre re-Alte Alterna rnativ tively, ely, when the MT 17 is travelin traveling g quickly and the sponding entry and subtracts these values from the current locatio n of the MT 17 is changing rapidly, it may be location values received from the sensor 18 and used by the 20 desirable to decrease the delay period. Furthermore, when MT manager 29 to select the corresponding entry. Referring the MT 17 enters an area where no immediate deliveries or to block 91 o f FIG. 4B, the resulting value or values pick ups are to made, there is no immediate need to morritor referred to as the deviation indicator) indicates the MT s the MT 17 and the delay period can be increased. The delay deviation from the MT schedule 39a. As shown by block 93 periods can be predefined in memory 30a, can be controlled controlled o f FIG. 4B, the MT manager 29 then compares the deviation 25 by the operator of he MT 17, or can be controlled via signals indicator to the alarm threshold value. If the deviation transmitte d from remote locations to the MT manager 29

indicator exceeds the alarm threshold value, then the T e.g., from -the BS manager to the 29convia T manager manager 29 transrriits an alarm message to the BS manager communications device 44). 41 Other methodologies methodologie s for 41, as depicted by block 9 of FIG. 4B The alann messa message ge possible. trolling the delay periods are possible. includes the current location of the MT 18, and the BS 30 Another way to reduce the number of transmissions of manager 41 tracks the location o f the M f 17 based on the status messages at desired times is to selectively increase the alann messages transmitted from the M f manager 29. The predefined predefi ned amount that the MT 17 should be off schedule schedule information provided by the alarm message can be used by before a status message is transmitted to the base station law enforcement agencies to track the MT 17. control manager 41. Similar to the changes in the delay After dctem1ining whether an alarm message should be 35 periods described above, the changes to the aforementioned generated, the M f manag er 29 retrieves the time value predefined amount can be predefined in memory 30a, can be associated with the corresponding entry and compares it controlled by the operator of he T 17, or can be controlled with the time value indicated by clock 8a i.e., the time via signals transmitted from remote locations to the M f value indicating the amount o f ime elapsed since the start of manage r 29 e.g., from BS manager 41 to MT manager 29 the route). The f manager 29 also retrieves a predeter- 40 via communications device 44). mined threshold value indicating bow much the MT 17 can The input device 4a FTG. 2) can he used to input deviate from the MT predefined schedule 39a before the MT changes in the delay period and/or in the predefined amount that the MT should be off schedule before a status message 17 is considered to be off schedule. Referring to block 97 of FIG. 4B, if the difference o f the foregoing time values is transmitted. In this regard, the input devk-e 4a may exceeds the predetermined threshold value, then the MT 45 include switches, buttons, a key pad, or any other device that canbemanipulatedbytheoperatoroftheMT17toinputthe manager 29 determines that the T 17 is off schedule. However, if the difference of the foregoing time values is changes. less than the predetermined threshold value, then the M When the BS manager 41 receives a status message, the T 17 is on schedule. BS manag er 41 stores the status message in memory JOb If manager 29 determines that the When the MT manager 29 determines that the MT 17 is 5o desired, the BS manager 41 transmits a message to the user on schedule, the MT manag er takes no further action regardregardvia communications devices 72 and 73 indicating that the ing the current location values received from the sensor 18. M f 17 is off schedule and indicating how much the MT 17 The MT manager 29 merely receives a new set of location is off schedule in response to the status message. values from the sensor 18 and analyzes the new set o f values The BS manager 41 periodically detennines whether a according to the methodology described herein. Howeve However, r, 55 notification message should be sent to the user indicating when the MT manager 29 determines that the that arrival of the MT 17 at the bus stop is imminent e. g., f 17 is off schedule, the MT manager 29 generates a status message indicating that the MT 17 is ten minutes from the bus stop). and transmits the status message to the BS manager 41, as In this regard, the notification message should he sent to the depicted by block 99 of FIG. 4B. user when the MT 17 is within a predetermined proximity In this regard, the T manager 29 determines whether the 60 i.e., a predetennined time or distance) from the bus stop. To MT 17 is early or late and how far the MT 17 is off schedule determine whet her the notification message should be sent, e.g., how many minutes or miles the T 17 is from the the BS manager 41 compares the location values of the location spec specifi ified ed by by the lO lOca cati tion on valu values es in tthe he co corre rrespo spondndcurrent locat location ion of the MT 17 to the location values of the ing entry). The MT manager 29 then generates a status predetermine d location e.g., the bus stop). If the difference message including tills information and transmits the status 65 between the location values o f he current location location of he MT message to the BS manager 41 via communications devices 17 and the bus stop is greater than a threshold value, then the 44 and 52. M f 17 is too far from the bus stop for notification to be sent Exhibit A

Page 81

 

us

7,119,716 8 2

28

27 to the user. Therefore, a notification message is not

g e n e r ~

ated. However, if the difference between the location values

of the current loca location tion 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 message indicating that the MT 17 is off schedule by the same amount) associated with the bus sto-p has previously been sent to the user. In 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 correspo corresponds nds to the assumed location of he M I 17. In this regard, the MT manager 41 compares the time values in the base station schedlile 396 with a lapsed time value indicating how much time has lapsed since the viT 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 he MT 17. Unless a recent status message has been received, the BS manager 4 uses these location values as the current location values to be compared against the location values of the predetermined locat ion e.g., the bus stop) in order to detennine whether a notification message should be sent to the user. However, if

s

10

l5

20

25

ule. 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 M f manager 29 can indicate how far the MT 17 is off schedule via the status message using either distance values, time values, or any other type of values known in the art for indicating the position of the M I 17. It should be noted that the preferred embodiment has been described hereinabove assuming that the sensor 18 is 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 determining the MT s position along the route o f travel is sufficient. suffici ent. F or example, the sensor 18 may be designed as an odometer that indicates how far the MT 17 travels. T h e r e ~ fore, the predetermined points along the route of travel used to determine whether the M I 17 is on or ofr schedule schedule can be defined in the schedules 39a and 39b relative to their distance from the starting point of the route. In oth er words, the location values stored in the schedules 39a and 39b correspond to distance values indicating how far the p r e d e ~ termined 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 predetennined points by d e t e r ~ mining how far the MT 17 has traveled from the starting point of the route.

amanager recent 4status message beenlocation received, theno ftthe BS determines thehas current values K User Notification Preferences and Reports h eMI 17 based on the recent status message and/or the location BS manager 41 is designed to receive the travel data values associated associated with the corresponding entry. entry. 30 transmitted fr6in MT manager 29 and to monitor the travel of he MT attached to the MTCU 15 by monitoring the travel For example, if the recent status message includes l o c ~ tion vah1es vah1es indicating the actual loc ation of he MT 17, then of he MTCU 15. In this regard, BS manager 41 is designed the BS manager 41 uses these values to compare with the to include a data manager 67 configured to receive the travel coordinate values of the predet ermine d locat ion e.g., the data via signal 66 from communications device 52, as bus stop). However, if he status me ssage only. indicates how 35 depicted by FIG. SA. Data manager 67 is designed to store much the MT 17 is off schedulE; then the BS manager 41 the travel data for each MTCU 15 being monitored in a calculates the cl.urent location values of he MT 17 based on database 94, which is preferably a relational database having the status status message and the location values associated with a number of tables 68, but o ther databas databases es are possible, for the corresponding entry in the base station schedul e 39b. example, f i t ~ f i l e database, i n v e r t e d ~ l i s t database, one made Once the current location values of the "MT 17 have been 40 up o f lookup tables, etc. determined, the BS manager 41 compares the current l o c ~ As is well known in the art, a relational database is a database or database management system that stores i n f o r ~ tion values of the f 17 with the location values of the predetermined location e.g., the bus stop) as previously previously mation in tables-rows and columns o f d at a-an d conducts described hereinabove to determine whether a notification searches by using data in specified column s of one table to signal should be transmitted to the user. 45 find additional data in another table. In a relational database, The operation of the preferred embodiment has been the rows of a table represent records collections o f n f o r ~ described hereinabove in the context where the M f manager mation about separate items) and the columns represe represent nt 29 compares location values to determi ne the corresponding fields particular attribu tes of a record). In conducting entry in the MT predefined schedule 39a. Therefore, the MT searches, a relational database matches information from a manager 29 compares the time value associated with the 50 field in one table with infonnation in a corresponding field corresponding entry n the MT schedule 39a to determine of another table to produce a third table that combines whether or not the requested data from both tables. For example, if one table f 17 is on schedule. However, it should be apparent to one skilled in the art upo n reading this contains the fiel fields ds M O B I L E ~ T H I N G ~ I D P A C K A G E ~ I D disclosure that time values may be compared by the MT and L O A D ~ DATE, and another contains the fields S T O P ~ and S T O P ~ L O C A T I O N a manager 29 to determine the corresponding entry in the MT 55 TIME, M O B I L E ~ T H I N G ~ I D predefined schedule 39a. relationall database can match the M O I L E ~ T H I N G ~ I D relationa In this regard, the entry in the MT schedule 39a having a fields in the two tables to find such infonnation as the possible pickup stop locations for packages transpo transported rted by time value most closely matching the lapsed time value indicated by the clock 38a i.e., the value indicating the the MT or the delivery times stop times) for aall ll packages amount of time lapsed since the start of the route) can be 6 loaded on the MT withln the last day. In other words, a selected as the corresponding entry. As a result, the M relational database uses matching values in two tables to relate information in one to information in the other, manager 29 determines how far the MT 17 is off schedule Althou gh not limited to tills configuration, in one ernbodibased on distance rather than time. For example, if the difference between the current location values of the MT 17 as determined 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 o:t o:tfsc fsched hed--

65

ment, among others, others, the database 94 includes includes,, amon g other things and in general, an MT data table 8a having i n f o r ~ mation pertaining to the MT, such as an ID, type package, mobile mobile vehic vehicle le ttype ype,, etc. etc.), ), mo model del,, whe whether ther the thing thing has air

Exhibit A Page 82

 

US 7,119,716 B2 29

30

conditioning, etc.; a user data table 8b having infonnation regarding user preferences; preferences; a communication method data data table 68c having information pertaining to various commu nications methods that can be utilized for contacting a user (which can be linked to the user preferences) ; a stop location data table 68d having information pertaining to stop loca tions of MTs; an MT MT) travel data table 68e having information concerning trave travell status o f MTs, an advertise

make assumptions about the time necessary to travel to the specified location. For example, if he route of he MTCU 15 is through congested areas, the monitoring mechanism 69 can assume a certain delay time for traveling certain dis tances, and if the route o f the MfCU 15 is through less congested areas, the monitoring mechanism 69 can assume another delay time that is less than the delay time assumed for the congested areas. Alternatively, the monitoring mechanism 69 can use an average o f the times it has previously taken for MTs 17 to travel over the same route during other deliveries. Therefore, by comparing the travel data transmitted from MICU 15 with preference data, the monitoring mechanism 69 can determine when to send a notification message to a user. As depicted by blocks 8Ba 88b 88g and 88h ofF G. 5C, the preference data can be stored in user data table 68b o f he database 94 FIG. SB). As stated hereinbefore, the MT travel data table 68e of he database 94 is preferably configured to store the travel data associated with each MTCU 15 in a respec.:tive 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 separate entries which are correlated with corresponding MTCU entries. Once the monitoring mechanism 69 determines that a

ment data table

8f having advertisements that can be

communicated to a PCD 75; a PCD data table 68g having 10

information pertaining to the devices 75; an authentication 8h having authentication infonnation or indicia to be described later in this document, a PCD travel data table 68i having information pertaining to travel of a tracked PCD 75, a traffic traffic flow predicame nt data table 68j, a package data table 68k, a failure st<Jtes data table 68 , a tasks data table 68m, subwtables of the foregoing, etc. The tables 68 inclucte·r elated fields fields for link ing and relating various ele ele ments in the various tables 68. Furthermore, in this embodiment, MTCUs are related related to identification values in MT data table 68a, and these values are correlated with travel data in MT travel data table 68e. Travel data can include information such as, but not limited to, the MICU's coordin ate values i.e., the MTCU's 15 location relative to a predetermined reference point), inf infor or mation regarding delivery status o f items to be delivered, data table

15

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and/or the times that the MTCU 15 reached particular locations or stops. The database 94 is configured to contain all o f he desirable information information to monitor the status of each

notification message should be sent to a user, the data manager 67 is designed to communicate a message to a user at a remote location via PSTN network 55 and communi30 cations devkes 72 and 73 FIG. 1). MTCU 15 associated with the notification system 10. Referring to FIG. SB data manager 67 is configured to In this regard, communications devices 72 and 73 are preferably PSTN modems capable of communicating with include a monitoring mechanism 69. The functionality o f monitori ng mechanism 69 is depicted in FIG. 5C. 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-88jofFJG. SC, monitoring mechanism 69 is configured to receive travel data from M I CU 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 stored in the database 94, particularly the user data table 68b. message to communications device 73, which is preferably Preference data, as used herein, is data that defines the configured to communicate the message to a PCD 75. PCD preferred paramete parameters rs indicating when to notifY a user of the 75 is configured to notify the user of the impending arriva arrivall impending 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 lt can be system defined or user defined. For example, preference data can be coordinates of a desired location some other commullications 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 by the preference data can, for example, represent a location In order for data manager 67 to transmit a notification that is a predetermined distance from the user house, place PCD 75, data manager 67 should be aware of certain contact of delivery or pickup, or other particular location. location. Therefore, Therefore, information ena enabling bling da data ta manager 67 tto o 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 he approximate location of he M I CU 15 or of he 50 a user data table 68b FIG. 5) containing contact information distance o f the MTCU 15 fro m a predeter mined point i.e., i.e., pertain ing to each user that is to receive a notification o f the proximity o f the MTCU 15 from a predetermined predetermined message from the data manager 67. In the preferred embodiment, the user table 68b is capable o f uniquely identifying point or location). Consequently, the user can prepar e for the 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 as:sociated with each user. Each entry preferably includes a user identification number As an alternative embodiment, the preference data can def define ine a ccert ertain ain time time before before tthe he MTCU 15 reac reaches hes a de dest stiiuni unique que to each user that identifies the information in the particular location i.e., a proximity of the entry as relating to a particu lar user. nation or other particular MTCU 15 from the predeten nined point). n this regard, the Each entry preferably includes a value specifYing the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to determine the 6 medium through which the user has specified to be conlocation o f he MTCU 15 from the travel data stored in M f tacted. For example, the value can indicate that the user is to travel data table 68e o f database 94. The monitoring mechabe 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 valu e the MTCU 15 to reach the location specified by the pr e eff eerr ence data based on the location of the MTCU 15 and the location of the desired destin destination. ation. In calculating the travel travel

time, the monitoring mechanism 69 can be configured to

65

c aan n iin n di di ccaa te te t ha ha t t he he user is to be contacted through a telephone call or a page. In these situations, the entry should also include the user telephone number or pager number. also indicate multiple methods o f notification. The value can also

Exhibit Page 8

 

US 7,119,716 B2

31

32

For example, the value can indicate that the user is to be first contacted via telephone. If there is no answer when the data

communicating via a modem, the message manager 82 is configured to transmit signals compatible with the user modem in order to prompt the user to enter th thee appropriate contact information. This data could be in the form of a web page transmitted through the Internet, or the prompt could simply be messages transmitted through e-mail or some other data communications system. When the user is communicating via a PCD 75 in the form

manager 67 attempts to deliver a notification message, then the data manager 67 can be configured to attempt n o t i f i c ~ tion via paging. f paging fails, then the data data mana ger 67 can

be configured to attempt notification through e·mail or other computer oriented messaging system. Accordingly, the order of notification media media should be indicated by the data in the

user data table 68b and the contact information

n ~ e s s

of a telephone, telephone, the message manager 82 can be designed to transmit recorded messages to the user. 111e user can then select or enter data by transmitting t o u c h ~ t o n e signals in response to the prompting messages, as is commonly known in the art. The 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 infor mation from the user, the message manager 82 is designed to store the contact information as an entry in the user data table 68b as depicted by block 90h of FIG. SD. When the monitoring mechanism 69 determin determines es that a user should be notified of an impending arrival of an MTCU 15, the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to send a notification command to message manager 82. The notification com user, such as mand may include travel data to be sent to the user, data indicating that a particular M f is a certain proximity from the destination defined by the preference data. In

r y

for each method selected e.g., the telephone number, pager

10

number, and e-mail address of the user) should also be

included in the entry. lt should be noted that various other communications media and combinations of communica tions media can be employed. preference data, data, which will The contact information and preference 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 ca n receive the contact informa informa e-mail,, for tion and preference data) via a telephone call or e-mail example) and manually enter the information into the noti fication system 10. 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 functionality of the message manager 82 is shown in

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the FIG. communi 5D. The message manager72 82 is configured receive, response, the messageassociated manager 82 is designed retrieve contact information with the user to from the user via cations device FIG. 1), an toactivation data table 68b and to determine how to contact the user request from a user at PCD 75, as shown hy blocks 90a, 90h 9 fo f FIG. 5D. In this regard, the request can be transmitted 30 based on the retrieved contact information, as depicted by blocks 90c and 9 d of FIG. SD. to PCD 75, via any suitable technique known in the art and The message manager 82 is then designed to transmit a the BSCU 38 can be configured to include a plurality of message compatible with the medium previously selected by communications devices 72, as depicted by FIG. SA. the user for notification, as depicted by block 90e of FIG. Each o f these communications devices 72 can be config ured to simultaneously communicate with a respective 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 For example, when the contact infonnation indicates that a the communications devices devices 72 can be transmitted to mes telephone call is the preferred medium for notification, the sage mana ger 82 FIG. 5B) via any suitable technique, such as time division multiplexing, for example. Each user com message 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 68b. f he with different communications media. For example, one user communicatio ns device 72 can be designed as as a modem to monitoring mechanism 69 included travel data indicating the communicate with a modem associated with a user. This time o f arrival in the com mand to message manager 82, then message manager 82 can be configured to include a message user communications device 72 c.:an be designed to send data configured to prompt the user to return data pertaining to 45 indicating the expected time of arrival at a particular loca contact informatio information. n. 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 commtmications medium to the user, depending on the preferences selected n this case) displays the template, and the user can fill in fields o f the template with the appropriate contact informa by the user dur ing activation. tion. Alternatively, another one o f the user communications 5 During activation, the message manager 82 can be further devices 72 can be designed to receive a telephone call from configured to promp t 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 9 g of FIG. 5D. In this regard, the be designed to communicate with other types of communi message manager 82 can be designed to prompt the user to cations media known in the art. 55 return information indicating which MI CU 15 is to be Onc e the message manager 82 FIG. 5B) receives 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 example,, the user can be prompted to deter mine 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 6 distance that the MTCU 15 should be from the selected destination or other particular location when a notification is data to the user, via user communications device 72, in order to prompt the user to transmit the necessary contact infor to be sent to the user. In response, the user specifies, through mation, as shown by block 90g of FIG. SD. In tbis regard, any known suitable communications technique, which the message manager 82 is configured to determine th thee type o f medium used by the user to communicate the request for activation and to transmit a prompt to the user that is compatible wit h this medium. For example, when the user is

65

MTCU 15 the user wishes the notification system 1 to monitor and how the user wishes to be notified of an impending arrival of the selected MfCU 15 at the selected destination. ]f the user knows the coordinate values of the

Exhibit Page

 

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33

destination, the user can simply transmit the coordinate database 94 is desired by the user, as depicted by blocks 88i values to the data manager 67. If the user selects the and 88j of FIG. 5C. TI1e monitoring mechanism 69 is then destin.: 1tion without supplying the coordinates o f the desti designed to retrieve from the database 94 the desired travel nation (e.g., the user selects a destination from a list o f 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 k and 881 of FIG. 5C. determine the coordinate values transparently. In the case where the user desires desires to know the time and/or n 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

to ide ntify a particular MTC U 15 and destination. For example, many buses are associated with a commonly known bus number, and the stops along the bus route are associated with commonly known bus stop numbers. The data manager 67 can be configured to recognize the MTCU 15 and destination 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 o f FIG. 5D, the message manager 82 is preferably designed to automatically transmit to moni toring mechanism 69 the preferences selected by the user that pertain to when the user is to be notified The monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to store this preferM ence information in the database 94 and designed to relate it to the selected MTCU 15. Once a user becomes activated with the notification system 10, the user may make changes to the preferences specified by the user, as shown by blocks 9Qj-90m of FIG. 5D. Thefor message is configu configured red to manager receive receive the changesmanager from the82 user. 82 request The message

10

15

20

5

the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to retrieve from MT travel data table 68e of database 94 the coordinates of the destination specified by the user (if not provided in the request for travel data) and the current coordinates o f the MTCU 15 o f nterest to the user. Prior to retrieving this data, the monitoring mechanism 69 can be configured to update the travel data for the MTCU 15 by transmitting an upilllte request to the MTCU 15 via MT communications device 52. Similar to the user communications devices 72, a plurality of MT communications devices 52 may be located at the BSCU simultaneously neously comm u 38 in order for multiple MTs 17 to simulta nicate with the monitoring mechanism 69, as depicted by FIG. 5B. The MT communications devices 52 are configured to communicat e with the monitoring mec mechanism hanism 69 through any suitable technique, such as time division multiplexing, for example.

After receiving the update request via communications devices 52 and 44, the MT manager 29 is designed to transmit the current values o f the MT travel data to the monitoring manager 69. By updating the MT travel data before responding to the user request for travel data, the monitoring mechanism 69 can ensure the accuracy o f the response transmitted to the user.

can be configured to request the user to resubmit all contact information and preference data, as updated, or can be 30 configured to request the user to only submit desired changes to the contact information or preference data. After After retrieving the coordinate values from the database receiving the new data, the message manager 82 is con:figM 94, the monitoring mechanism 69 is designed to calculate ured to update the contact information in user data table 68b distance that the MTCU 15 is from the selected destiM the and to send a request to monitoring mechanism 69 to update 35 nation based on the coordinate values of the MTCU 15 and the preference data relating to the monitoring of travel data. coordinate values of the destination. If the preference the 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 e notified when the MTCU 15 is a certain time from the and 88h of FIG. 5C. 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 o f 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 Mrs 17 described previously, the monitoring mechanism 69 is can be automatically monitored by the notification system designed to either assume that certain distances distances will take a 10. certain amount time to travel based o f on the type o f traffic 2. Requests for Travel Data 45 In addition to providing the user wit h automatic advance conditions usually encounter ed on the rottte or to calculate an average time previously required for MTs 17 o f the notification of an impending arrival of an MTCU 15, the system to travel the mute. To increase the accuracy o f the notification system 10 can also be used to provide the user calculations, the route should e divided into sections where with travel data on demand, as depicted by blocks 90n-90p 90d and 90e of FIG. 5D. n this regard, the user communi 50 the time required to travel each section is independently calculated. Furthermore, time delays associated with schedM cations device 72 is designed to receive a request for travel travel uled stops or deliverie deliveriess can be factored into the calculations data from a user user:: For example, the user may call the by assuming a delay tim e for each stop or delivery dependcommunications 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 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 travel data. mechanism 69 is configured to transmit the calculated values The user communications device 72 is designed to transmit to the message manager 82. n response, the message the user selections to message manager 82. Based on the manager 82 is designed to transmit the calculated infonnaM selections, the message manager 82 is designed to determine 6 tion to the user via user communications device 72. Since the user already has an established communications communications connec that the user me ssage is a request for travel data. In response, the message manager 82 sends a request to moilltoring 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 U' er 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 85

 

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35

data table 68b to determine the user preferences in n o t i i ~ cation and notify the user of the distance and/or time

The message manager 82 then prompts the user to select certain preferences. For example, the message manager 82 can request the user to identify a particular M I C U 15 that the user wishes the notification system 10 to track and a particular destination for the selected selected MTCU 15. If the user knows the identification number of the MTCU 15 or MT stop number used by the notification system 10 to identify the particular MTCU 15 and/or destination. the user can

accordingly. The monitoring mechanism 9 can also be configured to transmit a command to a mapping system 86 (FIG. SB to transmit mapping data to the message manager 82, if the user request for travel data or user preference data in database 94 includes a request for a mapping. The mapping system 86 may be any system known in the art for producing and supplying a user with mapping data for rendering a display of a map. The command to the mapping system 86 preferably includes includes the coordinate values o f the MTCU 15 and the destination. In response, the mapping system 86 transmits to message manager 82 mappi ng data sufficient for forming a display map with the locations of the MfCU 15 and the destination graphically displayed by the display map. The message manager 82 is designed to retrieve the contact information for the user requesting the travel data and is further configured to determine an address (e.g., an IP address or other type o f address indicating how the mapping data is to be routed to user) 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 asso associate ciated d with lhe user. When the: PCD 75 (i.e., a computer in this case) receives the mapping data, the user computer is

10

15

20

25

configured to render a graphical display depicting a map that shows the M f s location relative to the destination on the map.

I f desired, the monitoring mechanism 69 can be· configd ured to transmit the coordinate values of he MTCU 15 to the

30

mapping system 86 each time the coordinate values are updated. The user request for travel data can request this feature or the user can indicate tllls desire in the preference 35 data submined during activation. Accordingly, for each update, the mapping system 86 is designed to transmit updated mapping data to the user computer 75 via message message manager 82, as previously described. As a result, the posi tion of the MTCU 15 is updated updated,, a nd the user can monitor 40 the progress of the MTCU 15 on the display map rendered by the computer 75.

Although the preferred embodiment illustrates the requests for travel data by determining the distance the MTCU 15 is from a parti cular lOcation or by detennlning the

45

time tl1e M I CU 15 is from the particular location, other infonnation can be used to indicate the proximity of the MTCU 15 from the particular location. location. For example, the

simply transmit a message including this information. As an example, the bus numbers and/or bus stops o f commercial and state operated buses are usually available to the public. Therefore, the user may be aware o f the bus number and/or stop number of a particular bus that the user wishes to ride, ride, and the user can simply transmit the bus number and/or stop number to the message manager 82. Also, the user should be able to specify other identifying information such as the day or days o f de..o;ired travel and the time of day o f desired travel. In the embodiment where the user is expecting to receive a package from a particular delivery vehicle, vehicle, the user may be aware of the package number or delivery number used by the notification notifica tion system 10. Therefore, by specifying the package mm1ber and the address that the vehicle is to deliver the package, the particular MTCU 15 of the vehicle that is to deliver the package can be located by the notification system 10. In this regard. a database should be defined by the o f the notification system 10 that relates package operators to numbers MTCU 15 numbers. Alternatively, if the user is unable to ideritif)' a particular MT or MTCU 15, the message manager 82 can send information to the user that can be used to help the user identify a particular MTCU 15. For example, the message manager 82 can transmit to the user a list of buses or a list of MT stops to the user. The user can use this information to select a particular MTCU 15 that is suitable to the user. Also, the message manager 82 can send map data from mapping system 86 to the user. The user can then view the map and select points on the map where the user would like to know when the MTCU 15 reaches the selected point. The points available for selection can be predetermined, such as 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 case, the mapping logic preferably transmits the coordinates o f the selected points to the message manager 82, which can use this information to not only identify the selected destination. but to also choose an appropriate MfCU

15

The message manager 82 also prompts the user to enter contact information such as how the user would like to be

message transmitted to the user in response to a request for travel data can indicate that the MTCU 15 is currently at 50 notified o f an impending arrival o f he selected MTCU 15 at another particular location or landmark, preferably known to the selected destination. In response, the user selects a the use user. r. Any other information indicating t he proximity proximity of notification notifica tion 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 infonnation 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 pr ovides a telephone numbe number. r. In addition, if the user devices 72 and 73. As used herein, the term remote loca loca selects a computer as the notifica notification tion medium, then the user tion shall refer to any location off the site o f he BSCU 38. provides a suitable address for the computer, such as an The user can establish communicati on via a telephone, telephone, an e-mail address or IPaddress. f he user selects a pager as the e-mail message, the Internet, or any oth er suitable commu 60 notificati notification on 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 d i s l o ~ w e that other types o f notification media are would like to activate a monitoring of a particular MT, to possible. After receiving the desired contact information

retrieve travel data Jar a particular MT or to modify pref erences previously selected by the user in an earlier com munication session with the message manager 82. In response, the user selects selects the activation option. option.

65

from the user, the message manager 82 stores the contact information in the user data table 68b The message manager 82 also prompts the user to trans mit travel data preference preferences, s, which is information pertaining

Exhibit Page 86

 

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38

37

when

the user would like to be notified. For example, the

cation should be sent to the user. Alternatively, Alternatively, the moni-

user can select to be notified a certain time before the selected MTCU 15 is to arrive at the selected destination.

taring mechanism 69 can be con:figmed to periodically poll each ently entl y in the MT data table 8a and to compare the

Also, the user can choose to be notified when the selected selected 15 is within a certain distance o f he destination, and the user can choose to be notified notified when the selected Mr MrCU CU 15 is a certain number of deliveries or stops away from the destination. destinat ion.

travel data corresponding corresponding to each entry with the o r r e s p o n d ~ ing prefer ence data in user data table 8h to determine which

MTCU

Since th e monitoring mechanism 69 should have acces accesss to the travel data preferences in order to determine when a notification is appropriate, the message manager 82 p r e f e r ~ ably transmits the travel data preferences to the monitoring mechanism 69 along with a unique identification number that identifies the user and a unique identification identification nu number mber identifying the selected MTCU 15. The unique identification number identifying the selected MTCU 15 can be the MT number entered by the user provided that the number entered by the user identifies the MTCU 15 to be monitored. In tum, the monitoring mechanism 69 stores this in database 94. Entries associated associated with a particular MTCU 15 can be related together in the database 94. For example, each entry a s s o ~ ciated with a particular MTCU 15 can be stored, and each of the entries can have a pointer pointing to another one of the entri es associated with the partic ular MTCU 15. Therefore, entries associated with a particular MTCU 15 can be easily located. Other methods known in the art for categorizing the

users should receive a notification.

In analyzing each entry, the monitorin g mecha nism 69 preferably subtr subtracts acts the current coordinate values in the

accessed entry of the MTCU 15 with th e coordinate values previously stored in travel data 8e that indicate the d e s t i ~ nation location selected by the user. If the resulting value is less than a predetermined value, then the monitoring c c h ~ nism 69 sends a notification command to message manager 82 in instructin structing g the message manager 82 to n notify otify the user o f the impending arrival of the MTCU 15. This predetermined value corres corresponds ponds to the distance that the M MTCU TCU 15 should he from the destination before a notification is sent to the user. Preferably, this predetermined value is calculated from or is included in the preference data supplied by the user during activation or during an update to the activation. The monitoring mechanism 69 can also send the n o t i i ~ cation command to the message manager 82 based on the estimated time the MTCU 15 is ffrom rom the destination. destination. After calculating the value indicating the distance of the MTCU 15 from the destin destination, ation, the monitoring mechanism 69 can estimate how long it will take for the MTCU 15 to reach the

1

15

2

25

MI

entries correlating entries with a particular destinationinby assuming that the MTCU 15 can travel certain of ime. In order to increase the with theand travel data of athe particular MT are also possible. possible. or distances a certain amount Once the message manager 82 has received the desired accuracy of the notification system 10, the monitoring contact information and travel data preferences from the 3 mechanism 69 can vary the time for the distances according user, the communication between the message manager 82 to the type of raffic that is typically encountered at the MT s and the user can be terminated. terminated. The BS manager 41 should location and route of travel. If traffic conditions are usually now have suffici sufficient ent information to monitor the selecte selected d congested along the the MTCU s rout route, e, then the monitoring monitoring MTCU 15. f the user wishes to change the contact i n o r ~ mechanism 69 can assume higher rates o f time. u r t h e r ~ mation and/or the travel dftta preferences, the user can 35 more, if the travel data indicates that the MTCU 15 has a reestablish cmmnunication with the message manager 82. number of MT stops prior to reaching the destination, the The message manager 82 pr preferably eferably recognizes the user monitoring mechanism 69 can factor in a delay time for each requests as an update rather than an activation and prompts stop depending on the type of the stop. the user to transmit the new information. In this regard, the Once the monitorin g mechanism 69 determines the message manager 82 can prompt the user for all of the 40 MTCU s expected time of arrivaJ at the destination, the desire d contact informatio n and/or preferenc e data, similar monitoring mechanism 69 can determlne whether the user to the activation session, and simply replace the previously should be notified based on this estimated time. f the stored contact information and/or preference data, or the estimated time is less than a predetermined value indicating the desired estimated time of arrival chosen by the user, then message manager 82 can prompt the user for only the information to be updated and then merely update the 45 the monitoring mechanism 69 sends the notification c o m ~ previo usly stored information. mand to the message manager 82. It should be noted that the information transferred transferred The message manager 82, 82, in response to the notification between the user and the message manager 82 can be command from the monitoring mechanism 69, retrieve retrievess th e interfaced with with the message manager 82 through a hu human man contact information from user data table 8b indicating how operator during the activation session or update session so the user desires to be notified. Utilizing the contact i n f o r ~ desc nbed here nahove and during during other ssession essions, s, which will mation, mation, the me message ssage manager 82 82 then sen sends ds 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 infonnation through a telephon telephonee preferab preferably ly 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 user. user. For example, the message may The monitoring mechanism 69 of FIGS. 5B and 5C, upon indicate that the MTCU 15 (and, therefore, that tthe he MT recei ving 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, coordin ate values) relating to distance from the destinatio n or the message may indicate the M I C U 15, in MT travel data table 8e of database 94 6 the MTC U s specific location, perh aps with refere nce to that is configure d to conta in travel data and is as associated sociated street names and/o r street blocks. If he conta ct information indicate with the MTCU 15. After accessing an entry for storing indicatess that th e user wishes to travel data, the monitoring mechanism 69 compa compares res the have map data sent to a computer at the remote location, the current travel data (either received from the MTCU 15 or selected from a predetermined or assumed set of ravel data, as des cribed hereina hove) the user preferences stor stored ed in user data table 8b in order to determine whether a n o t i f i ~

65

message manager 82 sends a request for map da data ta to monitoring mechanism 69. In response, the monitoring mechanism 69 sends to the mapping system 86 the necessary data (e.g., the coordinates of the MTCU 15 and the d e s t i ~

Exhibit

Page 8

 

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39 nation) for the mapping system 86 to transmit the appropri

ate mapping data. The mapping system 86 transmits the mapping data to message manager 8

which again utilizes the contact infonnation retrieved from user user data base 78 to communicate the mapping data to the appropriate PCD 75 at remote location. The PCD 75 then displays the mapping data in graphical fom1 so that the user can see the Mf s location relative to the destination within the map graphically dis played by the PCD 75. llle notification message sent to the user indicates the 10

impencting arrival of the MTCU 15 at the destination pre

TI1e message manager 82 then transmits a request for data

to· the monitoring mechan ism 69. The request for dat a includes the unique identificat identification ion number used to identify the Mrcu 15, as well as any other information needed by the monitoring mechanism 69 to provide the desired infor mation. For example, the message manager 82 may also transmit infonnation indicating that the user wishes to discover information pertaining to the type of MT that is en route. 111e monitoring mechanism 69, 69, ln tum, retrieve retrievess the desired travel data from the database 94.

After retrieving the desired travel data, the monitoring mechanism 69 transmit transmitss the retrieved data to the message prepare for the arrival of the MTCU 15 knowing approx1manager 82, which communicates the data information to mately how long it should take for the Mr U 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 fanned to indicate the information herein by reference, describes a communication handler that contained by the travel data. For example, when communi can be implemented in or in connection with the manager 41 cation is over a telephone connect connection, ion, a recorded message for enabling communication o f a large number of concurrent can be fanned by the message manager 82 indicating the or substantially concurrent notification commmrications 20 distance the M I CU 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 commu 5. 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 contents o f he message is based on the travel data retrieved attached to the MTCU 15, on demand, by contacting the BS 25 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 manager 82 preferably transmits the (FJG. 5B) via communications devices 72 and 73. The data to the user over the established communication con medium used for communication can be any suitable 30 nection. When the user desires to receive map data (indi medium known in the art (e.g., telephone, ewmai1 Internet, cated by the selection o f an option during the request for cellular phone, etc.). The preferred will be discussed herew travel data or by the user preferences stored in the database inafter with the user establishing communication via tele 94), the monitoring mechanism 69 transmits a map generaphone, although other media of communication are also 35 tion command an d travel data of the selected M f CU 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 communicates 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 touchwtone 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 conta contact ct information munications systems. Initially, the message manager 82 from the user data table 68b The contact information prompts the user to indicate whe ther the call is an activation, indicatess the address (and/or other pertinent information) of indicate 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

viously selected by the user. Accordingly, the user can

The message manager 82 receives and interprets the touch-tone signal to determine that the user is requesting travel data. In response, the message manager 82 prompts the user to transmit an identification number of the MTCU

generated by the PCD 75, the user can determine the location and estimated time of arrival of he MTCU 15. The map display preferably shows the intended route o f ravel by the MTCU 15 and any scheduled MT stops along the route.

15 o f concern for the user. 1bis prompt can include infer- so 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 identifi identification cation number or other unique data of he particular MTCU 15 o f concern for the user. TI1e message

arrival o f an MTCU 15, the notification system 10 can also 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. signals. preferencess to be satisfied before learning of the M f CU s preference 1 b e 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. ani val. The 11SCr can monitor the travel of the MTCU 15 at For example, it is likely that the user may want to know how 6 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 signa signall that is based However, the user may want to know other infonnation, on comparisons between the MTCU s travel data and the such as, 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 ofMTthat is en route, etc. 65 prepare for an arrival o f any particular MTCU 15 or MT The user responds with touch-tone signals. as appropriate, to attached to the MTCU 15 associa1ed with the notification indicate what information the user is requesting. system 10.

Exhibit Page 88

 

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42

41

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 SCU 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. The notification communication passes through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to 1 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 L Alternati Alternative ve Embodlment for Communications Communications response is electronically electronically recognized by a response system U.S. Pat. No. 5,732,074, which is incorporated herein by feedback mechanism lOOb of the PCD 75. The response reference, describes systems for enabling communications 15 system feedback mechanism lOOb cause causess the transmitter 73 between mobile vehicles and a remote computer, via stan (FIG. 1), also associated with the PCD 75, to communicate dardized network communications links. n one embodi suitable feedback data, which ultimately is communicated in ment, the Jinks include the Internet and a controller area some form to the response system feedback analyzer 100a. network used in vehicles. A TCP/IP stack is implement implemented ed in In one embodiment, among oth er possible embodiments, embodiments, the controller. In another embodiment, each of the vehicles 20 the PCD 75 is a conventional and commercially available has a n Internet address or designation associ associated ated with it. touch-tone telephone, and the response can be accomplished The systems and methods described in this patent can be by having the notification-receiving party depress one or employed in connection with a notification system 10 and more appropriate keys on the keypad associated with the can be implemented to accomplish the many features telephone. In this embodiment, the response system feeddescribed in this document. 25 back mechanism 100b is already built into the telephone, in the sense that there are already on-board the phone, system M. Response Systems/Methods

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. n this 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 determine when to transmit a notification to the user and to transmit a notification to the user via conununication device 52 and 72. However, such an implementation can increase the complexit complexityy- and cost of the notification system 10 and is therefore generally not desirable. t

Response systems (and methods) are provided for notifi components for recognizing keypad keys that are depressed and for generating dual frequency tones that can be carried cation systems. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodi across the communications medium. Also, the telephone is ments of possible response systems will be described in 30 equipped with a transmitter 73 for communicating the dual detail hereafter. tones. In this embodiment, the BSCU 40 is frequem.-y The architecture of one such embodiment, among others, equipped with a receiver 45 (communicatively coupled to is sho sho\Vl \Vlll in FIG. 6 a nd is generally denoted by reference local interface 33b o f FIG. 3) for receiving and decoding the numeral 100. Although not limited to this particular imple dual frequency tone that results from depression of a telementation, this response system 100 is implemented in the 35 phone button. Such receivers/ receivers/decoders decoders 45 are well known in notification system 10 of FJG. 1. the art of telephony and are readily commercially available. 1. Response System Feedback Analyz Analyzer er For instance, the star (*) button could be assigned for a. First Embodiment indicating that the receiving party has in fact received the responsee system system 100, part particul icularly arly the response response syssysnoti notifica fication tion conununic conununicatio ation. n. Once the rece receivin iving g part party y The respons tern feedback analyzer lOOa, can be configured to imple- 40 depresses this key and once the BS manager 41 recognizes ment the following methodology, as is summarized by flow that it has been depressed by detecting this event, then the chart in FIG. 7A: causing initiation of or monitoring a BS mana ger 41 can definitively conclude receipt of the notification communication to a PCD 75 associated with a notificatio notification n communication by the party associated with the party, as shown in block 101 of FIG. 7A; and during the PCD 75. notification communication, receiving a response from the 45 More than one key can be used to convey multiple party via the party's PCD 75, indicating that the party instructions or indications from the notification-receiving associa ted with the PCD 75 has received notice, as indicated party to the BS manage r 41. 41. The BS manager 41 can be by block 102 in FIG. 7A. The response can be produced produced by equipped with an instruc instruction tion lookup mechanism 84, for any system or method that verifies that any party or one or example, a lookup table, database, or other mechanism for more specific parties received the notification communica- 50 identifying what each received key stroke means. tion. Some such systems and/or methods can accomplish In some embodiments, more than one party may hav e this by verifyi verifying ng o r detecting the physic physical al presen ce of such access to the PCD 75,. and it may be desirable to give each party( ies) at the PCD 75. Some such systems and/o r method methodss party their own personal code of one or more keys, so that can accomplish this by having the notification-receiving when a respons e is given by a party, the party can enter party exercise a physical action that can be converted to an 55 his/her own personal code, and the BS manager 41 will electr onic signal signal and commun icated back to the notification theref ore be advised as as to which party actually received the system 10. notificati notif ication. on. Although not necessary for implement implementation, ation, the foregoing In another embodiment, the PCD is a conventional telemethodology can be implemented, and in the preferred phone and the BSCU 40 is equipped with voice recognition embodiment is implemented, by software associated with 6 software. The receiving party confirms receipt of the notithe message message manag manager er 82 (F (FIG. IG. 5B 5B), ), the monit monitoring oring mec mechahaficati fication on communica communication tion wit with h any suitable suitable voice voice comm command, and, nism 69 (FIG. 5B) and/or the data manager 67 (FIG. SA) for instance, notification re cei ve d Voice recognition sysassociated with the BS manager 4 (FIGS. 1 and 3). See terns (e.g., lVR) are well know n in the art. response system feedback analyzer in FlGS. 1 and 3. The blocks of FIG. 7A essentially represent the high level architecture of such software, i.e. i.e.,, the response system system feedback analyzer in FIGS. 1 and 3. Note, however, that it

65

Jn another embodiment, when the PCD 75 is a computer, one or more keys on the keyboard, a mouse click on a button prov ided in a screen image, etc., can be assigned for indicatin g that the receiving party has in fact received the

xhibit A Page 89

 

US 7,119,716 B2

43

44

notifi cation communication. In this embodiment, softw software are associated with the computer recognizes the key depressio depression n or mous e click and communicates communicates occurrence of same back to the notification system 10 The software can be a conventional web web browser and the n notific otification ation communication communication could involve sencling sencling an HTML page (or other marku markup p language) to the computer that can be operated upon by the web browser. An applet(s) associated associated with t he HTML page can cause a window to appear on the computer screen with a selectable button, for example, Notificatio n Received and when selected by the mouse, the applet can cause the brows er to return an HTML page from the computer back to the notification system 10, which in this case woul d have a web server that can accept the HTML page response and analy ze the content. As an alternative, the response system 100 could be designed so that aany ny input from an in input/out put/output put I/0) peri periphe pheral ral device device con connecte nected d to the n noti otific ficati ationon-rec receiv eiv-ing party s computer could be recognized as a confirmation of receipt by the party of the notification. Also, note that the response can occur during the same same communication ses session sion as the notification or in a separate communica tion within within a reasonable time period. Any response data, including confirmation of receipt of a notification, that is receiv received ed by tthe he re respo sponse nse ssyst ystem em ffee eeddback analyzer 100a can be stored, if desired, with party contact reco records rds 86, as shown in FIG. 6 which can take the

at the stop location) is communicated to the PCD 75 during the notification notification communication. Furthermore, the notification message can indicate to the notified party party a n option that can b bee sseelected by the notified party to com1ect with and communicate with the driver of a vehicle or a party at the BSC U 40 or another location, in order to enable the notified party to discuss the content of the work order. b. Second Embodiment FIG. 78 is a flow chart illustrating another exemplary implementation of a response system feedback analyzer of the present invention, which is optionall y implemented as at least part of the architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager o f FIGS. 1 and 3. In this embodiment, a notified party can cause a connection to be made with a representative that knows the particulars of or that can access the particulars o f a pickup or delivery of an item or serv service ice in conne connection ction wi with th a stop locati location. on. In this embodiment, the response system 100, particularly the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be configured to implement the following methodology, as is summari zed by flow chart in in FIG. 7B: monitoring travel data in connection with an MT 17 that is destined to pickup or deliver (an item or service) at a stop location, as indicated at block block 105 105;; caus causing ing iinit nitiat iation ion of a notification communication to a PCD 75 based upon the travel data (e.g., when the MT 17 is in close proximity, has just departed a prior stop

10

15

20

25

l o c

t i o n ~

as indicated at block 106; and dttring the of a table, database, etc. form etc.), It is also possible that the response system 100 and the notifica notification tion communication, enabling a party associate associated d respo nse system feedback analyzerlOOa can can be designed so with the PCD 75 to selec t 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 7 75 5 is willing to accept or refuses a task, or job, way o f a computer network link with a party having access associated with the notification. The task can be vir virtUa tUally lly to particular s of the pickup or delivery, as indicated at block anything that is to be perfOrmed perfOrmed by the party. For example, example, 107, sso o that a discuss ion can be had regarding the particulars in the context of a taxi service, a BSCU 40 could send a o f the pickup or delivery. In some embodiments, where there is a BSCU 40 assonotification via a telephone to a taxicab, and a message could 5 be played over the telephone asking the party if another ciate d with the notification system 10, the BS manager 41 party can be picked up at a particular location within within a causes communicative coupling between the PCD 75 of he prescribe d time time pe period. riod. The party associated associated with the tax taxicab icab party and a communications d device evice as associated sociated with the party could send a response back to the BSCU 40, indicating havin g access to particulars of the pickup or delivery. The either acceptance or refusal o f the task, by actuating a key 40 Jatt Jatter er could be located at a call center, at a place that is local that is coded to each of these responses. responses. Note that U.S. Pat. to the BSCU 40, etc. In some embodiments, where there is a BSCU 40 assoNo. 5,945,919, which is entirely incorporated by reference, describes an automated dispatch system, system, in which the ciated with the notification system 10, the BS manager 41 response system 100 can be employe employed. d. causes communicative coupling between the PCD 75 o f he As another example, consider a public bus transit system 45 party and a PCD 75 associate associated d with the f 17 or person in that communicat communicates es bus arrival/depart arrival/departure ure information to a the MT 17. PCD 75 and wherein a party can send a response indicating A message can be provided during the notification o m ~ receipt of notice and indicating that the party will be a munication that includes a work order or descript description ion of the passenger on the bus. This information would be helpful helpful reason why the stop is being made. This can be very u useful seful 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 calle d can communicate 10 employed in connectio n with a service (e.g., cab cable le with somebody associated with the pickup/delivery pickup/delivery service installation, telephone line installation, etc.) to be performe performed d to correct information that is in error on the work order, order, add at a destination, that the response system 100 and the additional tasks tto o the wor k order, delete tasks on the work response system feedback analyzer 100a can be designed so ss order, etc. that the the par ty' s response indicates that the party associated As a further option, the BS manag er 41 can be designed with the PCD 75 needs to have an additional serv service ice 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 installed instead instead star key to talk with a representative. ' Selection of he pound of the one which was ordered, so that the telephone service key would confirm to the BS manag er 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. It is also possible, in the context of a notification system 10 employed in'connectio n wi with th a servic servicee to be performed at a destination, that a work order (of work to be performe performed d

65

perfo nn the requisite pickup/delivery task Selection of the star key would cause the BS manager 41 to connect the notified PCD 75 with a communications device of a party having acces accesss to particulars o f the pickup or delivery.

Exhibit Page 90

 

US 7,119,716 B2

45

c. n 1ird Embodiment FIG. 7C is a flow chart illustratin illus trating g yet another exemplary implementation of a response system feedback analyzer o f the present invention, which is optionally implemented as at least part ofthe architecture, functionality, and operation of the BS manager of FIGS. 1 and 3. A response from a notified party is used to change one or more tasks associated with a pickup or delivery o f an item or service associated associ ated with a stop locati location. on. In this embodiment, the response system 100, particularly

the response system feedback analyzer lOOa, can be con· figured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in FIG. 7C: monitoring travel data in comlection with a MT 17 that is destined to pickup or deliver an item or service at a stop location, as indicated at block 108; causing initiation of a riotification comrounica· tion which may may include a message ind indicating icating one or more tasks to be accomplished accomplish ed at the stop location) to a personal communications device based upon the tr travel avel data, as indi· cated at block blo ck 109; and during the notification cornmunica*

46

picked up; changing the number of rooms to be carpet cleaned, changing the level of service each having a difu ferent price), etc. d. Fourth Embodiment FIG. C is a flow flow chart illustr ating still another exempl ary

5

implementation implement ation of a re response sponse system feedback analyzer analyz er

lOOa, which is optionally implemented as at least part of he

10

archltecture, functionality, and operati operation on of the BS manager ofFIG S.1 and3 . In essence, a response from a notified party is used to select one of a plurality oftimes for a pickup or delivery of an item or service to occur at a stop location. In this embodime embodiment, nt, the response system 100, particularly

the response system feedback analyzer 100a, can be con· 15

figured figured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized 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 114; initiating or engaging in a notification communication session with wi th a PCD 75, when appropriate, ba based sed upon

2

tion, enabling a party associated with the personal commucommunications device to change one or more tasks associated with

impending arrival or departure of one or more Mrs 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 the pickup or delivery, as indlcated at block 110. 110. enabling selection of at least one of the times directly or The tasks can be stored in and changed within database 94 25 indirec indirectly; tly; the selection can be of an item that is associated FIG. SA), particularly in tasks table 68m The BS manager in some way with the time so that the selection is essentially 41 can be designed to change any of the tasks, based upon indirect), as indicated at block 116; and causing an MT 17 to arrive at or depart from the location at substantially the one or more inputs from the notified party. A set of options can be provided by the BS manager 41 to the notified party, selected time, as indicated at block 117. for example, via IVR, text, screen prompts, or otherwise, 30 As for step 114, the arrival or departure times associated and the party can select one or more of he options. Possible with MTs 17 can be stored and updated in database 94 FIG. options are as follows: an option that indicates that the one SA), particularly particu larly in MT travel data table 68e One or a or more tasks are proper or confirmed so go ahead and plurality ofMTs ofMT s 17 can be monitored by the BS manager 41 follow through with the scheduled picht pi cht p or deliver delivery; y; an for purposes of carrying out this embodiment. option that enables the party to change the one or more tasks 35 With respect to step 115, the notification communication or scope thereof; an option to enable adding a task; or an session can be initiated initi ated by the BS manager 41 based upon option to enable deletion of a task. user or system defined preferences stored in database 94 This embodiment has numerous applications. One non FIG. SA). User and system defined preferences have been limi limiting ting example e.g., pizza delivery, delivery, package delivery, delivery, described describe d elsewhere in this document. The predefined prefetc.) involves indicating in a message associated with the 40 erences may include, for instance, a) a proximity to the notification communication the amount of a blll and location or b) a designated location or region that is near the enabling the notified party to confinn the amount amount and/o and/orr the location at at issue and that when encountered by one or o r more intention to pay the ammmt when the M f 17 reaches the stop MTs 17, will result in the communication session. location for the pickup or delivery. In some embodiments, The arrival or departure t i m ~ of the one or more Mfs 17 the system can be configured so that the notified party can 45 in relation to the location may be determined, at least in part make payment during during the notificat notification ion conununicat conununication ion sessesbased upon actu actual al trave travell statu statuss inform information ation of he MTs 17 or sian. The BSCU 40 can be designed to prompt the notified notified at least in part based upon existing scheduling of the MTs 17 party to enter a credit card number to be used to pay the bill. which may or may not be updated). The card IUJmber can also be stored in user preferences and As an example of a mechanism for triggering a notifica· retrieved by the manager 41 pursuant to an appropriate 50 tion in accordance with step 115, the user may indicate that prompt fro from m the notifi notified ed party party durin during g the not notifi ificat cation ion co commthe user user would like like to receive a notification when a pickup munication sessio session. n. vehicle is one hour from arriving at a particular stop stop loca· As another nonlimiting example of such an application, tion. The BS manager 41 may determine, based upon the consider a configuration configuration where a service, such as a telephone telephone monitoring of travel data, that a particular vehicle 17 can installation, is being provided provi ded at the stop location. Further· arrive in one hour or, if a stop is skipped by such vehicle 17, more, assume that there is a work order for installation o f a then the vehicle 17 can arrive in 35 minutes instead of one hour. The BS manager 41 can be designed to initiate the single telephone line. n advertisement from table 8[ of database 94 of FIG. SA) could be provided to the notified notificati notification on communi communication cation tmder these circumstances and party during the the notification notification communication that indi indicate catess provide the different different options d during uring the notification comthat a second line can be installed for half the price of the 60 munication, one of which can be selected by the notified first line and for half of the monthly subscription fee. n party. option to select or deselect the second line installation install ation can be Thus, as can be seen from the aforementioned example, provided to the notified party. Accordingly, the notified party during the commtmication session, :first and second times to add or change the tasks to be perfor has stop the ability performed med at the location. This idea can be applied appli ed to other contexts: changing the number of goods e.g., groceries, etc.) to be delivered or

65

may time be offere offered that corresponds su substantially bstantially sched· uled and ad sooner time. Moreover, differentwith feesamay be charged for selection selectio n of the different times. Or, a fee may be charged for selection selecti on of the sooner time.

Exhibit Page 9

 

US 7,119,716 B2

47

48

As another example of a mechanism for triggering a tation, the foregoing methodolog y can be implemented, and notifica tion in accordance with step 1 115, 15, the user may in the preferr ed embodiment is implemented, by software indicate via user preferences that the user would like to associated with the BS manager 41. The blocks o f FIG. 7 receive a notification when a vehicle is one hour from would represent the high level architecture of such software. departing from a location. The BS manager 41 ma may y d deete terrNo Note te,, howe howeve ver, r, ttha hatt it is possible to have special purpose mine, based upon the monitoring of travel data, that two digital or analog hardware designed to to implement the methdifferent vehicles are available, one departing in 15 minutes odology. Such hardware can be easily associated with the and th e other departing in one hour hour.. The BS manag er 41 can BSCU 40. be designe d to initiate the notification communicat ion under In this embodiment, the initiating step 111 is performed by these circumstances to prov ide the two different options, one 10 the transmitter 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), under the control of the response system feedback analyzer of whic h can be selected by the notified party. With respect to step 116, the BS manager 41 can be easily 100a of he BS manager 41, The notification communication designed to provide options to the notified party and to passes throu gh the networ k 55 (FIG. (FIG. 1) to the receiv er 73 rece ive selections during the notification communication (FIG. 1 associated with the PCD 75. session. The set of options can be provided by the BS 15 The response from the receiving party is communicated manager 41 to the notified party, for example, via voice by the transmitter 73 (FIG. 1), under the control of the recording, NR text, text, scre screen en prompts prompts,, or othe othetv tv.r .ris ise, e, comm commuuresp response onse system system fe feedb edback ack mech mechanis anism m lOOb associated with nica ted to the notified notified PCD 75. The notified party can select the PCD 75 that is associated with the receiving party. In one one or more of the options on the notified PCD 75 via for embodiment, the PCD 75 is a conventional touch-tone example, IVR, entering text, pressing touch pad keys to send 20 telephone, and the response can be accomplished by having a DTMF signal signal that means something to the B BS S mana manager ger 41, the receiving party depress depress one or more appropriate keys on selecting a screen prompt via a mouse or touch screen, the keypa d of the telephone 75 to communicate one or more selecting a link on an HTML screen communicated by the instructio instructions. ns. In this embodiment, the BSCU 40 is equipped BS manager 41 or a source controll ed by or affili affiliated ated with with a receive r (communicatively coupled to local interface 25 33b of FIG. 3) forreceiving and decoding the dual frequency the BS manager 41, etc. n the case of a plurality of monitored MTs 17, a number tone that result results. s. from depression of a telt phone button. For of times can be provided to correspond respective respectively ly with the

instance instance,, the star (*) button could be as assigned signed for indicat indicating ing MTs 17. Furthermore, the notified party can se1ect one of the an instruction from the receiving party. Once the receiving plurality of times for an MT 17 to arrive at or depart from party depress this key and once the response system the location, whi ch will iden identif tifY Y to the BS manag er 41 which 30 feedback analyzer 100a of the BS manager 41 recognizes one of the MTs 17 should be caused to arrive at or dep depart art that it has been depress depressed ed by detecting this event (with fro m the location. receiv er 72 unde r the control of the BS manager 41), then the cause,, respon se system feedback analyzer 1 a 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. the location at the selected time by any of a variety of 35 As mentioned previously, more than one key can be used possible systems and/or methods. One method involves in order to convey one or more instructions from the having the selected time communicated to a PCD 75 as asso so-notifi notifica catio tion-r n-rece eceivi iving ng party party to to the notifi notificat catio ion n syst system em 10. cia ed with the appropriate appropriate MT 17 so that the operator of the Furthermo re, the PCD 75 could also be a comp uter or any appropriate MT 17 knows of the scheduled arrival or delivof the other devices that have been mentioned, or equivaery at the location and can make it happe happen. n. In alternative 40 1ents thereof. embodiments, the steps 114-117 are performed in a PCD 75 As indicated at block 113 in FIG. 8, the response system associated with a tracked M I 17, in which case the operator operator feedback analyze analyzerr 100a of the BS manager 41 modifies the will be advised of the scheduled arrival or delivery at the manne r in which futu future re notificatio notification n commtmications commtmications are to location and can make it lli llilpp lppen. en. be Sent based upon the response or content in the response, i\.nother method in which the BS manager 41 can cause 45 by manipulating data stored in connection with the notifithe M I 17 to arrive at or depart from the location at the cation-receiv cation-receiving ing party contact records 86 (FIG. 6). The selected time, in a case where the M I 17 can be remotely response system feedback analyzer 100 a of the BS manager controlled, would be to communicate appropriate data or 41 can be config configured ured to modify the manner in w h k h future control signa signals ls to the MT 17. notification communications are to be sent in a numb er of Tills embodiment has numerous applications, but are not 5o possible ways. In one embodiment, among many possible embodiments, all listed here for simplicity. e. Fifth Embodiment when the response system feedback analyzer 1 a is implemented in software, it is designed to to maintain one or more Another embodiment of a response system feedback analyzer 100a, among others, is shown in FIG. 8. This records pertaining to one or more parties and one or more embodiment envisions more than one notification commu- 55 communication methods associated with each party. Any nicatio n, perhaps regular notifications, occurri ng between suitable table or database can be maintained to store this the notification system and a party, and enabling a party to informatio n, if desired. In this embodiment, this data is influen ce how future notification communicat ions are to stor ed in part y contacts records 86 (FIG. 6). At this step in occur, after the first one, This respon se system feedback the process, after receiving the response from the notifica· analyzer lOOa can be summarized by the following steps: 6 tion-receivlng party, party, the response system feedback analyzer initiating a first notification communication to a PCD as so100a associated with the BS manager 41 modifies these ciated with a party) as indicated by block 111 in FIG. 8; records, based upon the notification-receiving party's receivin g a respon response se communication from the party's P PCD, CD, instructions in the response, response, to store/cre store/create ate modified contact as indicated by block 112 in FIG. 8_: and m odifying the manner in which future notification communications are to be sent to the party, party, based upon the response, as indicated by block 113 in FIG. 8. Althoug h not necessary for implemen·

65

data, in order to affect changes in the manner in which future notification communications are communicated. By its instructions, the notification-receiving party can, among other things, change the party(ies) tto o whic h notifi ·

Exhibit A age

 

9

US 7,119,716 B2

50

49 cation communications are sent in the future, change the MT(s) that is monitored by the notification system 10, change the proximity parameter that provokes a notif notificatio ication n communication, change the MT stop location that is used by the notification system 10 to provoke a notification communication, change the notification communication method and/or PCD, c hange a notification communication tto o a later time based upon a time of day or time period, cancel initiation of one or more scheduled futu future re notification communicatioru;, etc. FIGS. 9A through 9C illustrate, pictorially, notable n o n ~ limiting examples of ways in which the response system feedback analyzer 1 a of he BS manager 41 can cause the notification system 10 to modify the manner in which fu futt ttrr rree notification communications are communica ted bv the noli· fication syste m 10. • As illustrated in FIG. 9A, the response system feedback analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 may he designed to cause the notification system 10 to modify contact data after receiving the response, as indicated in block 121, and to ca use the notification system 10 to initiat initiatee one or more other future notification communications in accordance with, or based upon, the modified contact data resulting from the notification-receiving notification-receiving party's response, response, as indicated in block 122. For example, the response system feedback analyzer lOOa associated with the BS manager can be configured configured to 41 cause the notificatio notification n system 10 to wait a time period before

sending another communication to the recejving party. The time period may be predefined or maybe be dynamically programmable. The receiving party may define the time period in his/her response, for example, by selecting an

As another example, the response system 100 and the response system feedback analyzer lOOa may be designed so that an instruction may be used to advise the notification system 10 that the notificatimNeceiving party would like to receive a status message in future notification communica

5

tions, indicating the status of travel of the MT 17 For example, in fumre notifications, the status message may indicate the location of he MT 17 or the proximity (distance

and/or time) of the MT 17 with respect to a location. As another example, the response system 100 and the response system feedback analyze analyzerr lOOa may be designed so that an instruction may be used to advise the notification system 10 that the notificati notification-receivi on-receiving ng party would like to receive directions to a site associated with the notification or 15 an advertisement played during the notification. In this embodiment, the BSCU 40 can be communicatively coupled to suitable map software. To further illustrate this concept, a couple o f specific examples are described hereafter. As a first example consider a scenario where a telephone 20 messa ge advises a taxicab driver tto: o: Pick up at 325 325 East Broad Street. Confirm by pressing pound. If you need directions, press the star key. The system could be cconfi onfiga ga ured so that the response system feedback analyzer lOOa recognizes the # key as a confirmation that the driver has in 25 fact received the notification and recognizes the * key as a desire to receive directions. directions. In this case, the response system 1

30

feedback analyzer lOOa would access direction information from the map software and forward the direction infonna tion, or a part thereof, to the driver, during the original notification communication or in a subsequent communica tion. As a second example consider a scenario where a message sent to a computer advises a person that: ''Your UPS package

appropriate keypad or keyboard button in the case of a telephone or computer, respectivel respectively. y. The instruction may has arrived and is ready to be picked up at 325 East Broad indicate to the respon ;;e system feedback analyzer 100 a 35 Street. Confirm by pressing the one key. Pizza Hut is next door, and if you press the two key now, you w111 receive a associated with the BS manager 41 that the notificationreceivi ng party cannot handle any further notification notificationss for a free beverage. The system system co could uld be configured so that the predetermined time period, such as So minutes, because the response system feedback analyzer 100a recognizes depresparty now attends to a task (e.g., Wlloading or loading an sian of he 1 key as a c onfirmation that the person has in fact item from an Mn resulting from the first notification. The 40 received the notification and recognizes depression of the 2 task may even be identified in the n o t i f i c t i o n ~ r e c e i v i n g key as a desire to receive the discount. 1n this case, the response system feedback analyzer 1 a could be designed party s response. Accordingly, the n o t i f i c t i o n ~ r e c e i v i n g party can influence how the BS manager 41 handles fut future ure to subsequently send a coupon electronically to the person notifications to the particular party party.. via the computer, which could then be printed and Laken by 45 the person to the Pizza Hut to receive the discount. As an anoth other er ex exam ampl ple, e, the the respo respons nsee syst system em fee feedb dbac ack k anaanaAs illu illust stra rate ted d in FIG FIG.. 98, the response system feedback lyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 can be analyzer 100a associated with the BS manager 41 may be configured to cause the notificatio notification n system 10 to wait fo forr the designed to cause t he notification system 10 to modify contact data, data, as indicated in block 131, to refrain from f 17 to move a prescribed distance or come within a predetermined proximity of a location before sending so sending notification communications to the party's PCD 75 another communication communication to the notification-receiving notification-receiving party party.. after receiving a response, as denoted in block 132, and to As another example, the the response system 100 and and the initiate one or more other futur futuree notification notification communicaresponse system feedback analyzer 1OOa may be designed designed to tions to the party and/or one or more other parties, using one or more different communication methods, based upon the enable the notification·receivi notification·receiving ng party to advise t he response response system feedback analyzer lOOa to communicate one or more 55 modified contact data, as denoted in block 133. The comfuture notifications notifications to one or more different parties that have munication methods, may include for example,. but n ot assigned devices 75 75,, in addition to the notification notification receiving receiving limited to, to, contacting the the same or a dif different ferent 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 PDA,, sending a navigation screen response system feedback analyzer 1OOa may be designed so 6 to a computer, sending a notification signal and/or message that the response may indicate to the response syst system em 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 notification signal signal and/or ruesthat the notification-receivin notification-receiving g pa rty will be cha chang ngin ing g lloc ocaasag sagee via tele telex, x, commu communi nicat catin ing g a messag messagee vi viaa r dio t r n s ~ tions. Therefore, the BS manager 41 shoul d contact a ceiver, etc. different PCD 75 in connection with future notificatio notifications ns that 65 As a specific example of the overall process, the receiving is situated where the party will be in the future, for example party may indicate in the response that any future commubut not limited to, a different telepho ne in a different facil facility. ity. nicatio ns shou ld be forwarded to a different different communications Exhibit A Page

 

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instance, a fingerprint scanner, a retina scanner, and/or key insertion authentication could potentially be employed to verify th e appropriateness appropriateness of he party to produce a response.

PCD 75. For example, in the case of a touch-tone telephone, the # b butt utton on may be assigned to indicate that the party bas in fact received the notification, and the 5 button could be

assigned to the fWlction of indicating that the communica

Finally, as denoted at block 153 of FIG. 10, the PCD 75 communicates the party's response to the notification sysw rem, or in this example, the BSCU 40. The response may confirm receipt of he notification, may indicate to the BSCU 40 that tl1e notified party would like to have a discussion (oral, text, or otherwise) with somebody who has access to the particulars of the pick Up/delivery, may enable the notiw fied party to change one or more tasks (or scope thereof) associated with the pickup or delivery, and/or may indicate the mallil.er in which future notification communications should be communicated to the party, as will be further described below.

tion method is to be changed. Furthermore, having the party

depress the 2 key after depression depression o f # 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. As a further option, the response system 100 and the 10 response system feedback analyzer 1 a can be designed to enable a party to define times (times of day days of the week, etc.) for use of each future communications method or PCD 75. As illustrated in FIG. 9C, the response system feedback 5 analyzer lOOa associated with the BS manager 41 may be designed to cause the notification system 10 to modify contact data, as indicated at block 141, to refrain from sending notification notification communications to the party's PCD 75 after receiving a response, until the detection of one or more 20 events, as indicated in block 142, and then to monitor for occurrence o f the one or more events, as indicated in block 143, and then to cause the notification system 10 to initiate one or more other future notification communications to the party and/or one or more other parties, using one or more 25 communication methods, methods, as denoted at block 144. The one or mor e events can include, for example but not limi limited ted to, detection that the MT 17 is about to arrive at is at, and has left a particular location or has moved a prescribed dlstance, manual or automatic actuation of a switch on the MT 17 or 30 at a location where the :MT 17 visits, a certain time of he day has been achieved, a time period has lapsed since the last notification conununication, cancellation of a package delivw ry 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 a stop location, anOther communication from the party indicating that future notifications are welcome, etc. Detecn tion may occur by actually monitoring travel of the f 17 or by reviewing data corresponding with travel. 2. Response System Feedback Mechanism 40 FIG. 10 shows the high level steps taken by the PCD 75 in connection with the foregoing embodiments of the response system feedback analyzer lOOa. Some devices 75 may already be configured with the appropriate flmctionalw ity, while others may need to be configured to exhibit the 45 functionality and operate as shown in FIG. 10. For example,

in the case where a conventional touchwtone telephone is to

be used as the PCD 75 and where dualwfre dualwfrequen quency cy key stroke tones are to be used to convey instmctions to the BSCU 40, the telephone already has the requisite functionality to perform the steps illustrated in FIG. 10. Firs First, t, the PCD 75 receives the notification communication from the BSCU 40, as denoted by block 151 in FIG. 10. Accordingly, the party associated with the PCD 75 is given a notification wit h respect to the MT, e.g., the mobil e MT 17. Next, the PCD 75 receives an input response, e.g., e p r e s ~ sian of one or more keys, a voice command, swiping of a magnetic strip of a card through a card reader, etc., from the party associated witl1 the PCD 75, as indicated at block 152 of FIG. 10. The input from the parry to the PCD 75 can be manually or automatically accomplished, accomplished, hut it is desirable to implement a mechanism that shows that th thee party that is supposed to be associated with the PCD 75 has received the notification communication by way of the PCD 75. For security, it may be desirable to have the notificationreceiving party identified (perhaps even ulliquely identified) as on e who is authorized or permitted to send a response. For

s

55

60

65

N. Response Failure ·States The notification system 10, such as the manager 41 of he BSCU 40, can be designed to implement failure states in connection with a request for a response. failure state occurs when a state of a variable has been reached without receiving a response back from a notified party or PCD 75. Internally, a failure state causes the system 10 to terminate notification communication attempts and/or to take one or more actions to accommodate the failure to receive a response.. response failure state can also be shown on a screen or othenvise indicated to the operator of a PCD 75 (see FIGS. 25A through 25D; the one being tracked and/or the one being notified). fi:nlure state can be systenHiefined or userwdei user wdeiined ined,, an d can be stored i n user data table 8b (FIG. SA) and/or failure state data table 68/ (FIG. SA). A set ofnonlimitin g examples of failure state variables are as follows: (a) a time period variable (FIG. 25A) pertaining to the amount f ime that has elapsed since invocation of he notification; when the time period variable has expired, it triggers a failure state in the PCD 75k; (b) a distance variable pertaining to the distance traveled by the tracked PCD 75k (FIG. 25B) since invocation of the notification; when the PCD 75k has traversed a prescribed distance that is moni· tared with the distance variable, then a failure state can be invoked in the moving/tracked PCD 75/c (c) a predeterw mined location variable (FIG, 25C) pertaining to a location to be traversed by the moving/tracked PCD 75k, in other words,, once the PCD 75k determi words determines nes tha t it has reached this

predetermined location, then (FIG. a failure statewhich will result; (d) an acceptance variable 25D) tracks and the number of responses and/or 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 respond to the notification and invoke a failure state in connection with all other notifications (which can be communicated, if desired, to the other PCDs 75 that responded late). Once a failure state ha hass been d etermined by the manager 41, the manager 41 may be designed to implemen implementt one or more of the following actions: look for additional instrucw tions to notify the next person on a contact or route list, try different contact information for the same individual, or utilize this information to rewroute drivers to another destiw nation;; automatically nation automatically notify another user of this failure state event; and/or automatically notify third party companies providing additional services, such as but not limited to, transportation services, that there has been a notification failure.

Exhibit A Page

 

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0 . Advertisement Methods o f Doing Business In Connec· tion With Notification Services Various advertisement methods of doing business can be implemented in cmmection with the notification services, for example, those described hereinbefore. One such advertisement method of doing business, among others, is illustrated in FIG. 11 and can be broadly summa·

practiced in connection with this method. For example, the fee may be charged for each advertisement in each n o t i i ~ cation, for a block o f advertisements, or for the advertise ment service in general. As yet another example, example, a discount on the advertisement service may be offered or extended based upon a purchase of a predetermined number. In alternative alternative embodiments, the stop location o f the f 17 and/or the location o f the user and/or PCD 75 can be

rized by the following steps not necessarily in this orde order): r):

determined and taken into account with respect to adver a) monitoring travel data associated with an M f 17, as indicated by reference numeral161; b) contacting a party 10 tisements. See next section for a discussion of the location determination of the user, PCD 75, and/or stop location. numeral based upon the travel data, as indicated by refere nce numeral With this location information, the advertisements can be 162; c) providing an advertisement to the party substan tially during the contact, as indicated by reference numeral selected based upon the geographical location o f 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 5 ments can be sorted in a database based upon the geographi cal areas to which they pertain. Then, if t is determined that numeral 164. There are various alternatives and optional steps that may be practiced in connection with this method. intersection tion the PCD 75 or that the stop location is near the intersec of First Street and 1 y Street, then the advertisement data For example, the fee may be charged for each advertisement in each notification, for a block of advertisements, or for the base can be accessed for those advertisem advertisements ents that pertain to n Street. For instance, advertisement service in generaL As yet another example, a 20 the vicinity around First Street and the database might include an advertisement about Pizza discount on the advertisement service may be offered or Hut, and there might be a Pizza Hut that is located one block extended based upon a purchase of a pred etermine d number. number. from this intersection. n this case, the manager 14 may be n advertisement database 68f FIG. 5A) can be disposed 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 at an appropriate time during a communication with a PCD proximity to the Pizza Hut that is at issue. Also, the system may be designed to to forwar d 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 commllllication, by visual presentation on tuated at the PCD 75. a screen e.g., aan n email with an accompaOying advertise In alternativ alternativee embodiments, the timing of he notification ment, etc.), or by other means. 30 communication may be taken into account When advertise b11siness,, among Another advertisement method o f doi ng b11siness others, is illustrated in FIG. 12 and can be broadly summa ments are selected from a database for communication to to the order): rized by the following steps not necessarily in this order): PCD 75. For example, the hours when a store is open may 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 regarding an 35 notification commllllication is initiated, it may be desirable to refrain from communicating those advertisements that MT 17, as indicated by reference numeral171; b) providing pertain to stores that are closed at the time of he notification a notification communication involving travel status of the communication. In this case, the manager 41 could be MT 17, as indicated by reference numeral172; c) providing an advertisement as part o f or accompanying the notification designed to prevent such advertisements to occur during communication, as indicated by reference numeral173; and 40 prescribed time periods. Moreover, the converse could be d) charging a fee for or monetarily benefiting from provid designed into the system, i.e., the system could be de.o;igned ing the advertisement, as indicated by reference numeral so that advertisements pertaining to those stores that are known to be open at the time of the notification communi 174. There are various alternatives and optional steps that cation are communicated to the PCD 75. may be pracficed in connection with this method For In alternative embodiments, information regarding a noti example, the tee may be charged for each advertisement in 45 each notification, for a block o f 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 predete rmined number. Yet another advertisement method of doing business, among others, is illustrated in FIG. 13 and can be broadly summarized by the followi ng steps not necessa rily in in this order): a) enabling a party to indicate a willingness to receive one or more advertisements during a notification regarding an MT 17, 17, as indicated by reference numeral18l; b) p roviding a notification communication involving trave travell status of the MT 17, as indicated by reference numeral182; 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 numeral 184; 184; e) charg charging ing a fee for or mon etarily benefiting from providing the advertisement, as indi cated by reference numeral185; and f) providing a discount based upon the party s willingness to receive the one or more advertis advertisements, ements, as indicated by referencenumera1186. There are various alternatives and optional steps that may be

fication-receiving party, for example, a personal profile in 8b indicating interests, activities, historic information regarding prior purchases, traveling, etc., may be stored in memory and used to make decisions regarding which advertisements to communicate to the PCD 75. In alternati alternative ve embodiments, diSCOllllt awards can be coma municated to the notification.-receiving party. For example, an image o f a discount coupon could be forwarded to the PCD 75 that has a screen, which can be printed or shown by the user to the business establishment to which it pertains, in order to obtain the discount. As another example, example, a di scount code can be fonvarded to the PCD 75 via voice or text, which can be communicated by the user to the business establishment to which it pertains, in order to obtain the discount. TI1e discount code can be predefined by the busines s establishment and co mmuni cated to the notifi notificati cation. on. system 10, which can store it in the memory 30b   such as in association with advertisement data table 8f In alternative embodiments, the waiting times associated with retail establishments, for example but not limited to, restaurants, are monitored with periodic communications between a PCD 75 associated with such retail establishments user data table

50

55

60

65

Exhibit A Page 95

 

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and the BS manager 41. Furthermore, these waiting times

munication when the MT 17 is an acceptable proximity,

can be communicated with advertisements involving such retail establishments to the notified PCD 75.

perhaps a predetermined proximity or system-defined or u s e r ~ d e f i n e d proximity, with respect to one or more stop locations, or has just passed one or more stop locations.

P Stop Location Detem1ination Systems and Method s Based Upon User and/or Device Location Feedback Stop location determination systems (and methods) 190 that utilize user and/or device location feedback can be implemented in connect ion with the notification systems, for example, those described hereinbefore. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of possible stop location d e t e r m i ~ nation systems (and methods) 190 will be described in detail hereafter. Although not limited to this application, such stop location determination systems 190 are particularly useful in connection with transportable PCDs that are carried with a mobile person, as will be clear from the discussion hereafter. hereafter. 1 First Embodiment The architecture o f one such embodiment, among others, is sl1own sl1own in FIG. 14A and is generally d enoted by reference numera1190a. Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this embodiment, the stop location determina tion system J90a is implemented in the notification system 10 o f FIGS. 1 and 3, particularly the BS manager 41. The stop location determination system 190a can be configured to implement the following methodol methodology, ogy, as is summarized by flow chart n FIG. 14: monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as indicated at block 191; causing the

As another alternative, the BS manager 41 can be designed to cause initiation initiation of the notification communica tion when the MT 17 has already traveled a predefined time period or distance along a predefined route. 1

15

20

25

As another alternative, the BS manager 41 can be designed to initiate a first notification in order to sense the current location location of the PCD 75, make a selection of the stop Jocation(s) (and perhaps notify the user of he identity o f he stop location(s) during this first notification), and then provide a second notification notification communication at a later time, when the MT 17 is an acceptable proximity to the stop location (and perhaps notify the user, again or for the first time, of he identity o f he stop location(s) during the second notification communication). The location data identifYing the location o f he PCD 75 is stored in the database 94, which as mentioned can contain a PCD data table 68g for storing this information. The location data identifYing the location o f the PCD 75 can be generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the PCD 75 or can be generated automati-

callybythePCD75itselforbyother callybythePCD75i tselforbyotherremotesensingme remotesensingmeans. ans.

notification system 10 to conununi conununicate cate a not notifi ificat cation ion in invo volv lv-ing a delivery or pickup task associated with the MT 17 to a PCD 75 associated wit h a party, as indicated at block 192;

As an exampl examplee of a physical action, the party could be prom pted (e.g. (e.g.,, by voic e recordi ng) by the BS manager 41 to ente r a digit on a telephone to indicate a geographical 30 receiving location data from the PCD 75 (ultimately from area. For instance, instance, the voice recordin g could say say,, Press one the device user, device itself, and/or another source), as if you are located in northwest Atlanta, press two for indicated at -block 193; determining one or mor e stop northe ast Atlanta, press three for southwest Atlanta, and location s, based upon the device location data and the trav travel el press fou r for southeast Atlan ta. Obviously, many other data associated with the MT 17, as indicated at b)ock 194; encoding schemes are possible. In this example, once the 35 party presses one of these telephone buttons, the BS m n ~ and causing the notification system 10 to communicate an identification o f the one or more stop locations to the PCD ager 41 via a dual frequency tone decoder is able to 75 s o that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished determ ine the location o f the party and PCD 75. at the determined stop location, as indicated at block 195. For automatic generation o f location data, a location Note that these steps can occur as part ofthe same c o m m u ~ sensor 80 can be associated with the PCD 75 to determine 40 nication session or link or in more than one communication communication or communicate location data to the BS manager 41 via transa transacti cti011 011.. transmitt er 73, networ k 55, and recei ver 72. Alth ough not .AJthoug .AJt hough h not necessary for implemen tation, the foregoing limited to this configuration, in the preferred embodiment, methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred the location sensor 80 includes a GPS receiver that receives embodiment is implemented, by software associated with 45 GPS signals from GPS satellites. In at least one configurathe data manager 67, such as the monitoring mechanism 69 tion, the PCD 75 is a cellular or personal communication o f the BS manager 41. See stop location determinat ion system (PCS) (PCS) device and the netwo rk 55 iiss a cellul ar FIG.. 14 netwo rk and has compute r-based support functional ity and system 190 in FIGS. and 3. The blocks o f FIG essentially represent the high level architecture of such processing for receiving location signals from the GPS software. Note, however, that it is possible to have special 50 receiver and communicating location information to the BS manager 41. Examples o f 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 simil ar methodology , and such hardw are could be associated with the BSCU 40. 6,453,237; and 5,479,482, all of which are incorporated In this embodiment 190a t11e BS mana ger 41 monltors herei n by reference in their entirety. travel of the MT 17, as previously described, and stores such 55 In alternative alternative embodiments, for automatic generation o f infonnatio n in the database 94. As mentioned, mentioned, the database location data, other types o f positioning systems may be utilized to determine location information for the PCD 75. 94 can employ an MT travel data table 68e for storing such information, along with other fields fields that relate such inforFo orr ex ex am am pl pl e, e, r aad d ar ar co co ul ul d be used to remotely track the PCD tables les 75 and then the radar system could be designed to convey mation to other data in the same table 68 and in other tab 68. The tracking can be based ltpon timing, distance, and/or 6 position information to the PCD 75 or the base station location informatio information. n. control 1mit (BSCU) 40, for ultimate consumption and The transmitte transmitterr 72 associated with the BSCU 40 (FIG.1 ), analysis by the BS manager 41. The B BS S manager 41 is designed to determ determine ine a stop stop under the control of the BS manager 41, communicates the notification communication. The notification c o m m u n i c ~ Iocation(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 o f he MT 17. The 73 FIG.1) associated wit h the PCD 75. The BS manager 41 stop location(s) can be determined based upon any suitable ot iiff iicca ttii o on n cco o mmset o f criteria. The database 94 can be provided with a stop can be designed to cause initiation of th e n ot Exhibit A Page 9

 

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57 location data table 68d for storing stop locations and relating them to MTs 17 that are further identified in the MT data table 68a As an example, the BS manager 41 may be designed to determine an exact or approximate midpoint location between the location 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

In alternative embodiments, embodiments, the BS ma nager 41 may be designed to communicate, along with an identification of he stop location s), 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 authentica tion purposes so that the party associated with the f 17 knows that the party arriving at the stop location is properly authorized to perform the pickup or delivery. The code can

software many version versionss of which are commercially avail be stored in and accessed from, for example, the authenti able at the present time), geographic information system 10 cation data table 68h GIS) software, or an address lookup table to enable the BS In alternati alternative ve embodiments, the BS ma nager 41 may be manager 41 to perform the foregoing determination. Map designed to receive an indication from the PCD 75 that the ping sofuvare and interfaces thereto are well known in the party is unwiiiing to perlbrm the delivery or pickup task art and re commercially available. Also, see U.S. Pat No associated with the notification; and as a consequence, to 5,594,650, which is incorporated herein by reference and rs initiate another notification notification communication to another i f ~ which describes an example of mapping sofu.vare. ferent PCD 75 associated with another party in order to As another example, the stop location s) may be selected request assistance in the delivery or pickup task from the from a group o f predetermined stops stops a collection collection or along another party. As an example, the BS manager 41 may a predetermined route), known intersections, known prompt the party to press a particular telephone button to addresses, detected locations, locations on a map, etc., that 20 indicate a willingness or unwillingness to accept the respon are in an acceptable proximity to the PCD 75 and the MT 17, sibility o f the delivery or pickup. As another example, the BS manager 41 may forward an HTML page or o other ther at the time that the determination is made. In some embodiments, a selection among o f group of markup language) language) o f code to a computer-based PCD 75 that visually prompts the party to make a selection. possible stops can be made by correlating a maximum device distance requirement distance benveen benveen the device device 25 2. Second Embodiment and a possible s1op location) and a maximum MT distance In further alternative embodiments, as is shown in FIG. requirement distan distance ce between the MT 17 and a possible 14B, the BS manager 41 may be designed to perform stop location) to the group o f possible stop locations. One or following steps: monitoring travel data associated withthe a more algorithms algorithms 98 FIG. SA) can be provided and stored in plurality Mo or more) o f MTs 17, for instance, first and memory for this purpose. For instance, assume that the 30 second MTs 17, as shown in block 201; communicating a maximum device distance requirement is set at a mile and notification involving a delivery or pickup task to a PCD assume that the maximum MT distance requirement is set at associated with a party, as shown in block 202; receiving 5 miles. Also, assume that the BS manager 41 has deter location data from the PCD, as shown in block 203; deter mined, based upon its database, address Jookl 1p table, map mining one or more first stop locations and one or more ping programs, or otherwise, that three locations A, B, and 35 second stop locations, locations, based upon the device location data Care possible candidates candidates for the device user to pickup from and the travel data associated with the first and second MTs or deliver to the MT 17. In this sce nario, th the· e· BS manager 41 17, as shown in block 204; and communicating one or more can be designed to analyze the locations A, B, and C to identifications for each o f the first and second MTs 17 as determine which meet the requirements requirements.. 1t can be designed designed well as their respective first and second stop locations to the to select one or more locations that meets the requirements. 40 PCD so that the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished The BS manager 41 communicates an identification o f at a stop location, as shown in block 205. each o f the one or more stop locations to the PCD 75 so that In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be the delivery or pickup task can be accomplished at a stop designed to communicate, an indication o f he type ofMT 17 location. The identification can be any suitable information that will stop at each location, for example but not limited that will enable the device user to travel to the stop 45 to, whether the MT 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. This location s), for example but not limited to, street address would enable the notification-receivin notification-receiving g party to selec selectt which information, bus stop location or number, street intersection mode of transportation to utilize. location, longitude and latitud latitudee coordinates, audio or visual In alternative embodiments, the manager 41 is designed to description of a place, an image o f the stop location, a map enable the user of the PCD 75 to select which o f the stop image, etc. All of the foregoing can be stored, if desired, in 5 locations and/or which o f he MTs 17 that the user wishes to and accessed from the stop location data table 68d FIG. utilize. This can be accomplished using one of he variations SA). Directions to the stop location s) can also be provided of he response system, system, which have been described in detail by the BS manager 41 over the communications link to the previously. Furthermore, this selection or information PCD 75. The directions can be stored in memory and indicative thereof can be forwarded by the manager 41 to a accessed by an appropriate index that is stored in the table 55 communi cations device, for example, device 44 FIG. 1), 68d Note that computer-based functionality for a notifica associated with the selected MT 17, so that the MT 17 is tion system for communicating a map image to the PCD is aware of the pickup or delivery by the user at the selected described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,936, which is incorporated stop location. Also, if desired, the manager 41 can be herein by reference in its entirety. designed to advise one or more other MTs 17 that they have In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be 60 not been selected. designed to communicate communicate,, alon g with an identification identification s) o f 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 could be a bus number, visual or audio description, description o f he driver Stop location loca systems me methods) thods) tition mingdetennination criteria system defined and or user defined190 via or vehicle type bus, railroad train, tax, etc.), etc. The 65 that utilize timing foregoing information can be stored in and accessed from user preferences) can be implemented in connection with the the MT data table 68a FIG. SA).

notification systems, for example, those described hereinExhibit A Page 9

 

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59 before. Several non1imiti non1imiting ng exemplary embod iments of pos sible stop location determinatio n systems (and methods) 190 o f this type will be described in detail hereafter. Although not limited to this application, such stop location determi nation system systemss 190 are particular ly useful in cormection with transportable PCDs that are carried with a mobile person, as will be clear from the discussion hereafter. 1. First Embodiment The architecture o f one such embodiment, among others, is shown in FIG. 15A and is denoted by reference numeral 190c. AJthough not limited to this particular configuration, in this embodiment, the stop location detemtination system 190c is implemented in the monitoring mechanism 69 (FIG. SB) associated with the notification system 10, particularly in the software associated with the BS manager 41 (FIG. 3). This stop location detennination system 190c, can be con figured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in FIG. 15A, via suitable prou gramming: receiving one or more timing criteria corre spondlng to a pick-up or delivery, as denoted at block 211; monito ring travel data pertaining to an MT 17, as denoted at block 212; determining one or more pick-up pick-up/delive /delivery ry loca tions for the MT 17 based upon the travel status and the timing criteria, as denoted at block 213; and communicating with a PCD 75 associated with a party and providing the pickup/delivery locations to the communications device, as

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, in the implementation) communicated from the BSCU 40 to the user computer. The data manager 67 and/or the monitoring mechanism 69 o f he BS manager 41 is designed to monitor trave travell of the MT 17, as previously described. The tracking can be based upon timing, dlstance, and/or location information. 11le data manager 67 and/or the monitoring mechanism 69 of the BS manager 41 is further designed to determine a piclmp/delivery Iocation(s) for the T 17 based upon the travel status and the timing criteria (and in alternative embodiments, additionally based upon location data s s o c i ~ 15 ated with the PCD 75 itself, an originall originally y scheduled pickup/ delivery location, or some other location or geographical reference). Any suitable algorithms may be employed by the BS manager 41 to accomplish this determination task. The stop location(s) may be determined from a group of 20 predetermined eligible stops (a collection or along a prede termined route), from known intersections, from a set of detected locations, fro m locations on a map, from addresses, etc. The BS manager 41 can be interfaced with or be designed to include conventional mapping software to 25 enable the BS manager 41 to perform the foregoing foregoing deter· mination. 10

denoted at block 214, so that pickup or delivery can be accomplish ed in accordance with the timing criteria at a stop

As a simple example of a determination process, the BS manager 41 could select the next stop or next tvm stops location. along a predetermined route associated with a delivery The timing criteria can be, for example but not limited to, 30 vehicle when t will arrive at such stop or stops within a specified timing criterion, e.g., 30 minutes. a time of he day, a period o f ime 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 he month, a period of ime to elapse from th e 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., i n 3 hours), an indication of ASAP (as soon as 35 carrying the device to travel the distance between the device possible), etc. In the preferred embodlment, the timing and a possible stop location) and a maximum T time criteria are communicated to the BS manager 41 by the user requirement (time that it will take the MT 17 to tfavel the distance between the MT 17 and a possible stop location) to and are stored in user data table 68b of he database 94 (FIG. SA). the group of possible stop locations. For instance, assume 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 4: has determined, based upon its database, mapbusiness method involving charging a user for delivering delivering to ping programs, or otherwise, that three locations A, B, and or enabling pick Up at a location that was not originally Care possible candidates for the device user to pickup pickup from scheduled or charging different fees to a user for different or deliver to 1he MT 17, that the maximum device time degrees o f notificat notification ion immediacy or charging for f c i l i t t ~ 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 are 5, 11, and 9 charge more for ASAP service than for a service having a timing requirement o f within 24 hours. A stratified billing minutes, respectively. In this scenario, the BS manager 41 schedule could be implement implemented, ed, for examp example, le, similar to the can be designed to select location A, because the timing manner in which the U.S. Postal Service charges for mail so criterion will be met. services: overn ight is one charge, two-day service is another, another, In alternative 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 T 17, at the time that the determi 190c, 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 o f vehicle stops along a route traveled by the 55 tinring criteria. In these alternative embodiments, the l o c ~ vehicle. As an example, a party may wish to meet a driver tion o f the PCD 75 can be assumed, in general, based upon and obtain a package as soon as possible. 11lls 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 veillcle stop (address or map based location) location) that the user, could be determined using a location sensor s i t u ~ meets the timing criterion, perhaps one that was not origi 60 ated on the PCD 75 (as previously described), could be naiiy intended by the party or driver. based upon other configuration data provided by the user, n this embodimen t 190c, the massage manager 82 of the etc. BS manager 41 receives the one or more timing criteria When a notification communication is to occur, the trans

corresponding to a pickup or delivery and stores this infor mitter 72 associated with with the BSCU 40 (FIG. 1), under the mation in the user data table 68b The timing criteria can be 65 control of he BS manager 41, communicates the notification communicated to the BS mana ger 41 via any suitable means, conununication. The notification communication passes for example but not limited to, via a computer over the through the network 55 (FIG. 1) to the receiver 73 (FIG. 1) Exhibit A Page 98

 

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61

associated with the PCD 75. The BS manager 41 can be tions device, so that pich.·up or delivery can be accomplished designed to cause initiation of th thee notifi notifica catio tion n comm communka unka-in ac accor cordan dance ce with with the the timi timing ng cr crite iteria ria,, as denoted at block tion when a suitable MT 17 is an acceptable p proxim roximity, ity, 224. perhaps a predetermined proximity or system-defined or In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be user-defined proximity, with respect to one or more stop designedtocommtmicate designedtocommtm icate anindicationoftbetyp anindicationoftbetypeofMTl7 eofMTl7 locations. that will stop at each location, for example but not limited As another alternative, the BS manager 41 can be to, wheth er the M r 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. This designed to cause initiation of the notifica notificatio tion n com commun munica ica-would enable enable the notificat notification-r ion-recei eceiving ving party party to sselec electt which which tion when a suitable MT 17 has already traveled a predefined mode of transportation to utilize. time period along a predefined route. 10 In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 is The BS manager 41 communicates an identification of the designe d to enable the user of the PCD 75 to selec t which of stop location s) to the PCD 75 so that the delivery or pickup the stop locations and/or whic h of the MTs 17 that the user task can be accomplished at a ssto top p locati location. on. The ident identifi ificacawishes wishes to utiliz utilize. e. Th This is can be accomplish accomplished ed using one of the tion can be aany ny suitable information that will enable the variations of the response system, which have been device user to travel to the stop Iocation s), for example but 15 described in detail previously. Furthermore, this selection or not limited to, street address information, bus stop location location informa tion indicative there of can be fo.nva fo.nvarded rded by the BS or numb number, er, stre street et intersect intersection ion locati location, on, longitud longitudee an and d lat latiimanager 41 to a communications device, for example, tude coordinates, audio or visual description of a place, place, aan n device 44 FIG. 1), associa ted with the selected selected MT 17, so stop location, a map image, etc. Directio Directions ns to that the MT 17 is aware of the pickup or delivery by the user image of the stop the stop location s) can also be provided by the BS manager 20 at the selected stop location. Also, if desired, the BS mana 41 ove r the commllllications Iinlc age r 41 can be designed to advise one or more other MTs 17 n altemative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be that they have not been select selected. ed. designed to communicate, along with an identification of the stop location s), an identification of the MT 17 to the PCD 5 75. For example, the identification could be a bus number, visual or audio descdption, description of the driver or vehi cle type, etc, n alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to communicate, along with an identification of a 30 plurality of stop locations, an inclication of the type of M I 17 that will stop at each location for example but not lirnlte lirnlted d to, whether the MT 17, is a bus, railroad train, tax, etc. n alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 may be designed to communicate, along with an identification of he 35 stop location, a code to the PCD 75 that will be used by the contacted party to indicate to a party associated with the M I 17, for example, a driver of the MT 17, for authentication purp oses so that the party associated with the MT 17 kn knows ows that the party arriving at the stop location is properly 40 author ized to perfor m the pickup or delivery. In alternative embodiments, the BS m3nager 41 may be designed to receive a n indication from the PCD 75 that the party is unwilling to perf orm the delivery or pickup task associated with the notification; and as a consequence, to 45

Secure Notification Messaging Systems and Methods Secure notificatio n messaging systems and methods can be implemented in cormection with the notification systems, for example, those described hereinbefore, tto o give the contacted party confidence that the notification message is genuine and legitimate. More specific specifically, ally, the BS manag er 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 ann s, 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 rin g as described in U.S. Pat. No. No. 6,313,76 0 that is selec selected ted by the user, image of a vehicle or driver, Jive image of vehicle or driver, a telepho ne numb er that can be called to verify the notific notification, ation, such as the telephone number asso asso-ciated with a tele telephone phone situated on the MT 17 or associated 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 R

initiate another notification communication to another dif signature of the notified party, a public official, or another ferent PCD 75 associated with another party in order to party, etc. request assistance in the delivery or pickup task from the The authentication information can be preset or dynamianother party, As an example, the BS manager 41 may cally programmable. It can be user defined or system prompt the party to press a particular device button to 50 defined. indicate a willingness or unwi unwill llin ingn gnes esss tto o ac acce cept pt the the respon ponWhen When tthe he PCD PCD 7 75 5 is equippe d with a screen e.g., a Sanyo sibility of the delivery or pickup. As another example, the Model 8100 wireless PCS vision picture phone distributed BS manager 41 may forward an HTML page o f code to a by Sprint, a Sony Ericsson T300 wireless picture phone compu ter-b ased PCD 75 that visually prompts the party to distributed by T-Mobile, etc.), an image can be sent. When make a selection. 55 the PCD 75 is equipped with audio capabilities, a signal that 2. Second Embodiment causes an audible signal at the user end can be sent. sent. When As illustrated in FIG. 158 the BS manager 41 may be the PCD 75 is equipped with motion or vibration capabiliconfigured to perform the following steps: receiving one or ties, a signal can be sent that causes a particular motion or mor e timing criteria correspon ding to a pickup or deliv delivery, ery, vibration signal to occ ur at the user end. as denoted at block 221; monitoring travel data pertaining to 60 The authentication data can be stored in authentication a plurality a HATs 17, for instance, first and second MTs 17, data table 8h of the database 94 o r the data can be acce accessed ssed as den ote d at block 222; determining a pickup/delivery remotely, even dynamically during a communication with locations for the first and second MTs 17 based upon the PCD 75, travel status status and the timing criteria, as denoted at block 223; and contacting a commun:ications device associated with a part y and provid ing the pickup/deliver y locations for the first and second MTs 17, respectively, to t he he c o om mmunica-

65

FIG. 16 sshows hows graphical ly the secure notification notification messaging system and is generally denoted by reference numeral 210. As an exemplar y implementatio n, the system 210 is im mp p le lem en en te ted in software in the monitoring mechanism 9

Exhibit A Page 99

 

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63

separate entity. The server compares the image with an associated with the BS manager 41. The software is con· image of the driver that is stored in a local accessible figured to perform or cause performance of the following database. When it matches or does not match, the server is steps: monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17, as designed to communicate such message back to the PCD 75 indicated at block 231; co mmunica ting a notification involv involv ing a delivery or pickup task associated with the MT 17 to 5 indicating the match or nonmatch, respectively. a PCD associated with a party as indicated at block 232; and As another example, a certifiable code may be utilized. In providing authentication infonnation 234 to the PCD that this example, the certification/ver ification server has a list of indicates to the party that the notification is from an autho authorized codes in its database that are authorized to be rized source, as indicated at block 233. The providing step used by the notification system/service. system/service. The server compares can be performed before, during (as part of the same step), 10 the incoming code with a code that is stored in an accessible or after the communicating step. As is shown in FIG. 16 the database. When it matches or does not match, the server is authentication authenticatio n information 234 can be stored in the memory designed designe d to communicate such message back to the PCD 75 30b can be accessed by the BS manager 41, and commu indicating the match or nonmatch, respectively. nicated by the BS manager 41 to the PCD 75. As another alternative embodiment, the MT 17 may be In alternative embodiments, among others, a party can 15 equipped with one or more digital cameras (or the cameras predefine one or more authentication indicia to be sent to the may be disposed remote from the MT 17 for capturing an PCD 75 during a notification. The BS manager 41 is image, series of images, and/or video (real time live or designed with functionality to permit a party to communl delayed) of the rvrr 17, of a person (e.g., a driver) or thing cate with the BS manager 41 and provide configuration situated situa ted within the MT 17, or of something outside the MT information, such as an identification of the authentication 20 17 and for communicating the image or video to a website indicia. Such configura configuration tion information can be stored and server on the World Wide Web WWW) of the Internet. accessed by the BS manager 41 in the user data table 68b Moreover, the authenticatiOn information may include a and/or the authentication data table 68h. hyperlink to the website server on the WWW o f the Internet As an example, the contact can occur by having the party so that the notification-receiving party can view the image or communicate icate 25 video taken from the MT 17. use a computer or computer-based device to commun with the BS manager 41 over the Internet, particularly the FIG. 16A shows a possible screen message that can be WWW. Any suitable graphical user interface can be employed to enable communications. U.S. Pat. No. 6 411 89

describes systems and methods for enabling interactions

between a party using a computer and a base station com 30 puter associated with a notification system, the description

o f which is incorporate herein by reference. These systems and methods can be employed in the context of his example. s another example, the contact can occur by having the party use a conventional telephone to communicate with the 35 BS manager 41 over the PSTN. n cmmection with such a

telep hone link, any suitabl e in interac1ive terac1ive voice response (IVR) be utilized to communicate information. U.S, Pat. No, 5,657,010 describes systems and methods for enabling interactions between a party using a telephone and a base station computer associated with a notification system, the descrip tion of which is incorporate herein by reference, These systems and methods can be employed in the context ofthis system or dual-tone encoding scheme may

driven to (such as ovet 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 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 addi tional verification, to cancel the arrival, or to reschedule. Hyperlinks can be associated with each of the foregoing sentence elements, 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 40 Mobile thing detennination systems (and methods) 250 can be implemented in connection with the notification systems, for example, those described hereinbefore. hereinbefore. Several nonlimiting exemplary embodiments o f possible MT deter45 mination systems (and methods) 250 will be described in example. detail hereafter. Although not limited to these applications, In further alternative embodiments, a link may be pro such determination systems 250 are particularly useful in vided by the BS manager 41 with the authentication infor connection with transportable PCDs that are carried with a mation to enable the party to certify that the authentication mobile person and in connection with transportation ser information is from an authorized source. For example, the link may be a hyperlink to a server on the Internet. The party s vices, like taxicab services, that have a number of vehicles and stop locations that can be anywhere, as will be clear can select the link to communicate with the server to certify from the discussion hereafter. that the authentication information is from the authorized source. The architecture of one such embodiment, among others, is shown in FIG. 17Aand is generally denoted by reference s an example, a certifiable image may be utilized. More specifically, an image is communicated to the PCD 75 and 55 numeral 250a. Although not limited to this particular con the user of the PCD 75 can have the content o f the image figuration, in this embodiment, the MT determination sys tem 250a is implemented in the notification system 10, certified or verified as originating from an authori zed source. In one such embodiment, the image (capture d live via digital particularly the BS manager 41. The T determination system 250a, is configured to implement t11e following camera or prerecorded) is a picture o f a mobile vehicle driver that is communicated to a computer-based PCD 75 60 methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in FIG.17A: during the notification notification communication. The image is embed permitting a party to identifY a pickup location, a dropo:ff ded in HTML XML or some other markup language with location, and one or more user notification preferences, as indicated at block 251; identifying an MT 17 based upon the java applets. hyperlin.k is provided so that the device user can click on, or select, the image or select the hyperlink, identity of the pickup location, the dropo:fflocation, or both, which causes the image to be sent to a remote certification/ 65 as indicated at block 252; and communicating an identity o f verification server on the Internet. The certification/verifi the MT when appropriate, pursuant to the one or more

cation server can be part of the notjfication system or a

notification preferences, as indicated n block 253. Note that

Exhibit A

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65

these steps can occur as part of the same communication lite transceiver, personal data assistant (PDA), pager, any session or link or in more than one communication t r a n s ~ addressable communications device on the internet, etc. action. Both a signal and a message may 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 5 message could be communicated to a PDA, pager, or o m ~ identification or characteristic of a thing during a commu· puter. With respect to step 252, any of a number of possible nication session between the BSCU 40 and the PCD 75 for example but not limited to, an identity or characteristic o f a criteriaa may be used by the BS manager 41 to identify and/or criteri package or person, to be picked up at the pickup location. select an MT 17 to accomplish the pickup and dropo:lf task, This information can be used for planning and/or verifica· 1 while complying with the user preferen preferences. ces. As an example of the MT identification process in the context o f 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 commu nicate this identification or characteristic of the thing to be his/her preferences preferences is to get picked up whhin fiftee fifteen n minutes picked up to a communications device associated with the and that another one o f his, her preference preferencess is that the taxicab MT 17, so that a party associated with the MT 17 can verify 5 must have air conditioning. Further assume that the BS the thing at the pickup location. The identity or characteristic manager 41 knows that a taxicab having air conditioning is can be any of a number o f possibilities, such as a number currently available in the geographical area of the pickup (e.g., bar code number, Federal Express number, etc.) asso location ru1d can travel to the pickup location within the ciated with a package, the weight or size of a package, or the specified fifteen minutes. n this example, the BS manager 20 41 can be designed to assign the taxicab to the task o f name of a person. picking the user up at the pickup location and dropping the Although not necessary for implementation, the foregoing methodology can be implemented, and in the preferred user off at the dropo:lflocation. A communication can be sent embodiment is implemented, by software associated with by the BSCU 40 to a communications device associated with the data manager 67 m1d/or the monitoring mechanism 69 the taxicab, indicating the pickup particulars. With respect to step 253, the BS manager 41 is designed (F1G. 5B) of the BS manager 41. See stop location deter- 25 to initiat initiatee a notification communication and communicate an mination system 250 in FIGS. 1 and 3. The combination of blocks o f FIG. 17A essentially represents the high level identity o f he MT 17, when appropriate, pursuant to the one architecture o f such software. Note, however, that it is or more notification preferences. In the preferred e m b o d i ~ possible to have special purpose digttal or analog hardware hardware ment, the notification communication session is initiated by designed to implement the same or similar methodology, and 30 the BS manager 41 when the MT 17 is at a particular such hardware could be associated with the BSCU 40. location, is within a particular geographical region, or is Pickup and dropoff locatio locations ns can be stored and accessed accessed within a particular proximity of the dropoff location, using in the stop location data table 68d Identification o f MTs can the monitoring systems and algorithms described previously in this document. be stored and accessed in the M f data table 68a Further, user notification preferences can be stored and accessed in 35 During the notification notification communication session, the MT the user data table 68b 17 can be identified with a vehicle number, with a d e s c r i p ~ More specifically, with respect to step 251, the BS man· tion o f a vehicle type, color, etc., with reference to a logo on ager 41 is designed to permit a party to identify a pickup the MT with a digitized picture or video of the MT, or in location, a dropoff location, and one or more notification some other way. preferences. The communication can occur via any suitable 40 The BS manager 41 can be designed to enable the party communications device and with any suitable user interface, to accept or deny the pickup and dropoffusing the identified MT 17 during the notification communication session or but in the preferred embodiment, the communication is accomplished through a portable computer-based PCD 75, during a subsequent communication session. This can be such as a wireless telephone or PDA. The notification accomplished with a suitable grdphical user interface, 45

preferences include, example but not limited to, a assmning 75 has display with user, an IVR, proximity o fmay he MTto thefor pickup location (e.g., a distance by touch the tonePCD commands pressedcapabilities, by the device by between the MT and the pickup location that is to be met other means o f communication described elsewhere in this before a notification will occur, a telephone number to be document, etc. used when making the notification communication, a time The BS manager 41 can be designed to provide i n f o n n a ~ period that it will take the MT to reach the pickup location, so tion concerning the capacity o f the MT 17 during the the arrival or departure o f he MT from a location, the entry notification communication session, for example but not of the MT into a geographic region, etc.), a particular time limited to, the number o f passengers, packages, or other that the passenger must arrive at the drop off location, 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. selections could be provided pertaining to the same or 55 The BS manager 41 may be designed to receive n f o r m a ~ different vehicles), the type or location o f seat that the tion regarding an item, for example but not limited to, a passenger would like to reserve, whether a pid. up vehicle package, that is placed on the MT 17, based upon it being has air conditioning conditioning,, the type of security or care that is to be placed on the MT 17 at the pickup location, based upon it taken with respect 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 c o m m u n i c ~ 60 information is useful for tracking the item as well as the tions methods , pecification pecificat ion to attempt another commu capacity o f the MT to handle new items. Furthennore, a nications device if a first one fails, any o f those preferences preferences machine readable code, for example, a bar code or electronic mentioned previously in this document, etc. The c o m m u n i ~ tag (see U.S. Pat. No. No. 6,144,301), could reside on or in or be

a

cation s methods may involve, for example but not limited to to,, communicating a signal and/or a message to a l a n d ~ l i n e telephone, cellular, satellite, or wireless telephone, facsimile machine, computer, television, cable TV transceiver, s a t e ~

65

placed on or in the item and read by a suitable reader, such as a bar code scanner or electronic tag reader, at some time when the item is matched up with the MT 17. Moreover, this code or a derivative thereof(e.g., an indicator of ess bit size,

Exhibit

Page

 

1 1

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67

a coded representation, an index in a lookup table, etc.) could be communicated from the MT, using a suitable

communications device on the MT 17, to the BSCU 40 for fUrther processing and analysis, i f desired. 2. Second Embodiment The architecture of another embodiment embodiment of the MT determination system 250, among others, is shown in FIG. 17B and is generally denoted y reference numeral 2506. Although not limited to this particular configuration, in this embodiment, the MT determination system 25 b is imple mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS manager 41. The MT determination system 2506, is config ured to implement the following methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in FIG. 17B: establishing a first communication session between the system 10 and a PCD 75, as indicated at block 261; during the first communication session, pennitting a party associated with the PCD 75 to iden tify a) a communi cations method for providing a not notia ia fication, b) a pickup location location and c) a dropofflocation, as indicated at block 262; identifying an MT that will arrive at the pickup location for pickup and that will travel to the dropof f locati location on for dropoff, based upon the identity of the pickup location, location, the dropofflocation, or both, as indicated at block 263; establishing a second communication session in accordance with the communications method for providing a notification, as indicated at block 264; and during the

10

15

The BS manager 41 can be designed to provide informa tion conceming the capacity o f the MT 17 during the first communication session, second communication session, or both, for example, the number of passengers, packages, or other items, items, the numbe r o f vacant spaces, seats, slots, etc. The BS manager 41 can be designed to receive informa· tion regarding an item, for example, a package, that is placed on the f 17, based upon it being placed on the MT 17 at the pickup location, based upon it being dropped off at the dropoff location, or both. This information is useful for tracking the item as well as the capacity o f he MT to handle new items. Furthermore, a machine readable code, for example, a bar code, could reside on or in or be placed on or in the item and read by a suitable reader, such as a bar code scanner, at some time when the item is matche d up with the MT 17. Moreover, this code or a derivative thereof could be communicated from the MT, using a suitable communi cations device, to the BSCU 40 for further processing and analysis, if desired.

20

3. Third Embodiment The architecture of yet another embodiment o f the MT determination determinatio n system 250, amo ng others, is shown in FIG. 17C and is generally denoted by reference numeral 250c. Although not limited to this particular configuration, configuration, in this 25 embodiment, the MT determination system 250c is imple· mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS second communications session, identifYing the MT, as manager 41. The MT determination system 250c, is config indicated at block 265. In the preferred embodiment, the ured to implement the following methodology, as is sumsecond communication session is initiated by the BS man marized by flow chart in FIG 17C: during a communication ager 41 when the MT 17 is at a particular location, is within 30 session with a determining a location can be a PCD 75, determining a particular geographical region, or is within a particular geographic area or an approximate location, depending upon proximity o f the dropoff location, using the monitoring the precision needed to effect pickup or delivery) ofthe PCD systems and algorithms described previously in this docu 75; and identifYing an MT 17 to travel to the location or ment. another location that is near the determined location for a Although not necessary for implementation, implementation, the foregoing foregoing 35 pickup or delivery based upon the determine determined d location ofthe 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 determination system session that is used to enable detection o f the location of he 250 in FIGS. 1 and 3 The combination o f blocks of FIG. PCD 75 can be a notification communication initiated initiated from 17B essentially represents the high level architecture o f 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 wilh the BSCU 40. may be designed to cause a subsequent notification com During the first and/or second communication sessions sessions,,

munication session to the PCD 75 and/or a different PCD 75 defined by user preferences) preferences) from the system 10 based upon travel status o f he MT 17, e.g., when the detennined MT is logo on the MT, with a digitized picture or video of he MT, at a particular location, is within a particular geographical or n some other way. region, or is within a particular proximity o f the location. The BS manager 41 can be designed to enable the party so The location o f the PCD 75 ca n be determined automati· to accept or deny the pickup and dropoff using the identified cally, using any o f the techniques described previously, or MT 17 during the first communication sess session, ion, during the can be detennine d by prompting the device user to manually second communication session, or during a subsequent enter identificatio n e.g., an address, region, stop number, number, an communication session. This can be accomplished with a etc.) or description o f the device location. As an example, suitabl e graphic graphical al user interface, assuming the PCD 75 has 55 the device user could be prompted to enter a text message display capabilities, with an NR by touch tone commands that includes the post office address that is nearest the PCD pressed by the device user, by other means o f communica 75 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 if necessary, from a plurality o f possible MTs 17, based upon between the BSCU 40 and a clifferent PCD 75, that is, 6 user notification preferences in adclition to the determined different from the one involved in the first first communication location o f the 75. PCD session, based upon user notification pref preferences. erences. The user As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as can specifY in the first communication session or in some the :MT 17 can be identified with a vehicle number, with a description of a vehicle type, color, etc., with reference to a

other communications session with the BS manager 41, which communication method s) should by used for the second communi cation session which is the notification

session).

45

6

previously described, although not in this context, this embodiment 250c can be further designed to communicate an identification of the location o f the PCD 75 to a com municationss device associated with the MT 17. munication

Exhibit Page 102

 

US

7,119,716 B2

69

70

As with the other embodiments o f the system 250, and as previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further designed to communicating an identification identification of the MT 17, such as a number or description, to the PCD 75, As with the other embodiments o f he system 250, and as previously described, described, this embo diment 25 c can be further designed to enable the party associated with the PCD 75 to

ured to implement the following methodology, as is sum marized by flow chart in FIG. 17D: causing or establishing a first communication session between the system 10 and a PCD 75; during the first communication session, determin ing a location can be a geographic area or an approximate location, depending upon the precision needed to effect pickup or delivery) of he PCD 75; selecting an MT 17 from

accept or deny the responsibility of

the

pickup

or the

among a plurality to travel to the determined location or another location for a pickup or delivery at one o f the locations; and causing or monitoring establishment o f a second communication communication session between the system 10 and the PCD 75 when one or more user preferences criteria relating to travel status o f the selected MI 17 have been satisfied to notify the user o f the PCD 75 of the impending arrival of the MT 17 at one of the locations.

delivery using the identifie identified d MT during the conununication conununication

session or during a subsequent commu:rllcation session with an appropriate response from the user of the PCD 75. See response systems and methods described earlier in this document. Furthermore, the BS manager 41 can be designed to forward the 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 location and can confim1 i t

As with the other embodiments o f he system 250, and as previously described, described, this emb odiment 250c can be further designed to provide information concerning a capacity of items situated on the T 17 that is to travel to the pickup or delivery location. As with the other embodiments o f he system 250, and as previously described, described, this em bodiment 250c can be further designed to receive information from the PCD 75 regarding 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

1

15

Note that, in this embodiment 250d, the communication session that is used to enable detection of the location of he PCD 75 can be a notification communication initiated from 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 non-notification communication initiated by the

2

PCD 75

the system 10.

The system 25 d can be designed to cause the second communication session to the PCD 75 and perhaps to a different PCD 75 pursuant to user preferences) from the

25

former, the item may be equipped with a human readable code or machine readable code that can be read or scanned and sent to the system 10. As with the other embodiments of he system 250, and as 3 previously described, this embodiment 250c can be further designed to receive an identification or characteristic o f a thing to be picked up by the MT 17 at the location, and to communicate the thing identification or characteristic to a communications device, personal or otheiWise, associated 35 with the MT 17. In other alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can also be designed to communicate a location to the PCD 75 that is different than the detected location or approximate detected location of the PCD 75 or that is in an area that the 4 PCD 75 is detected to be within or near. For example, if the PCD 75 is detected to be near an already existing scheduled stop locati on for an MT 17, then the PCD 75 may be advised of the stop location. An identity of, description of, and/or directions thereto can be communicated to the PCD 75. The 45 device user can be given the opportunity to accept or deny a pickup or delivery at the different location. As another example, the zip code associated with the area in which the PCD 75 presently resides may have been manually commu nicated to the system 10 by the user o f PCD 75. In this 5 example, the BS manager 41 may be configur ed to select any suitable stop location that is within the geographic region corresponding to the zip code. The user can even be given the opportunity to select between the determined or the different location. The user 55 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 different locati on the one that may correspond to an already already scheduled stop) stop).. 4. Fourth Embodiment 6 The architecture o f still still anoth er embodiment of the MT determination system 250, among others, is shown in FIG. 17D and is generally denoted by reference numeral 250d.

As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as previously described, described, this embodiment 25 d can be further designed to provide information concerning a capacity o f items situated on the T 17 that is to travel to the pickup or delivery location. As with the other embodiments o f he system 250, and as

Although not not limit ed to this particu lar configuration, in this embodiment, the MT determination system 250d is i m p l ~ mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS manager 41. 41. The M MT Td dete etermi rminat nation ion syst system em 250 250d, d, iiss conf config ig--

previous ly described, this embo dime nt 250d can be further designed to receive information from the PCD 75 regarding an item that is to be placed on the :MT 17 at the location or droppe dropped d off at the location, or both. With respect to the

65

system 10 based upon travel status o f the MT 17 and predefined user preferences, e.g., when the determined T is at a particular location, is within a particular geographical region, or is within a particular proximity of the location with respect to timing or distance. Further, when the MT 17 is identified, it may be selected, if necessary, from a plurality of possible Mfs 17, based upon user notificat notification ion preferences in addition to the determined location of the PCD 75. As with the other embodiments o f he system 250, and as previously described, although not in this context, this embodiment 250d can be further designed to communicate an identification of the location o f the PCD 75 to a communicationss device associated with the MT 17. munication As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as previously described, described, this embodiment 250d can be further designed to communicate an identification of the M I 17, such as a number or description, to the PCD 75. As with the other embodiments of he system 250, and as previously described, described, this embo diment 25 d can be further designed to to enable the party associated with the PCD 75 to accept or deny the responsibility o f the pickup or the delivery using the identi identified fied MT during the communlcation session or during a subsequent communication session with an appropriate response from the user of the PCD 75. See response systems and methods described earlier in this document. Furthermore, the BS manager 41 can be designed 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 o f the system detected location and can confirm it.

xhibit

A

Page 1 3

 

to

US 7,119,716 B2 72

71 former, the item may be equipped with a human readable code or machine readable code that can be read or scanned and sent to the system 10. As with the other embodiments of the system 250, and as previously described, tills embodiment 25 d can be further designed to receive an identification or characteristic of a tiling to be picked up by the MT 17 at the location, and to

PCD 75 when the MT 17 is at or within a predefined proximity of the location or region, as indicated at block 294. The stop location or region can be predetermined or T 17 and/or the PCD 75 5 dynamically determined while the are in motion. The user can selectively selectively predetermine the stop location or region via user preferences. preferences. The system 290 can be designed to give the user a stop location or region or to or characteristic communicate the device, thing identification to a give a number of stop locations or regions to choose from. communications personal or otherwise, associated 1 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 altemative 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 he PCD 75. Techniques detected location of the PCD 75 or that is in an area that the PCD 75 is detected to be within 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 he same communkation session or link or in more of the stop location. n identity description ot: and/or than one communication transaction. transaction. As an example of the directions thereto can be communicated to the PCD 75. The former scenario, a text .communic .communication ation c an be generated by 20 device user can be given the opportunity to accept or deny the system 290 and communicated to a pager or PDA that a pickup or delivery at the different location. indicates a) tha t the device is within 10 yards o f the stop The user can even be given the opportunity to select location and b) that the T 17 is within 1 minutes of between the determined or the different location. The user arriving at the stop location. As another example of the even be charged a fee or a higher rate for causing causin g the could MT 17 to travel lo the device location as opposed to the 25 former scenario, two telephone numbers associated with a telephone could be called, substantially concurrently, by the different location location the one that may corres correspond pond to an already scheduled stop). notification system 10. Further, each could have their own distinctive ring. T Combined Mobile-Thing-To-Location MTTL) And The notification system 10 can track the location of the Device-To- Location DTL) Notification Systems and Meth Meth 3 PCD 75 and the MT 17 by using any of he location tracking ods techniques that have been previously described. Travel data Systems and methods) can be implemented in coilllection associated with the M 17 can be stored in a table 68e while with the notification systems, for example, those described tr vel data associated with the PCD 75 can be stored in a hereinbefore, including system 10, wherein a notification is PCD travel data table 68i o f database 94 FIG. SA). Fur commun icated to the PCD 75, based upon the proximity of 35 themlOre, the notifications can be triggered using any of he the T 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 comnm the same location or region). Several nonJimiting exemplary 40 :nications blocks 293, 294). Furthermore, the system 290 embodiments of such systems and methods), which will can he 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 communication session using applications, such systems 290 are particularly useful in any o f the response techniqu techniques es described previously in this connection with transportab transportable le PCDs 75 that are carried with 45 document. a mobile person and in coilllection 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 define user preferences in connection with the notification clear from the discussion hereafter. communications and to operate in accordance with the user The architecture of one such embodiment, among others, s preferences. For example, among other things, the party can is shown in FIG. 18 and is generally denoted by reference define the predetermined proximity between the MT 17 and numeral 290. Although not limited to this particular con the stop location or region for triggering a notification to the figuration, in this embodiment, the system 290 is imple PCD 75 and/or the predetermined proximity between the mented in the notification system 10, particularly the BS PCD 75 and the stop location or region for triggering a manager 41 The system 290 is configured to implement the 55 notification communication to the PCD 75. The predeter following methodology, as is summarized by flow chart in mined proximities can be defined as a point when the MT 17 FIG. 18: a) monitoring travel data associated with an MT 17 is at a particular location, is within a particular geographical 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 reglon that is in close proximity to or based upon the same location or region), as indicated at block 292; c) ccausing ausing a designed to provide information concerning a capacity of notification communication to be initiated to the PCD 75 items situated on the T 17. This type of nformation would when the PCD 75 is at or is within a predetennined prox imity o f he location or region, as indicated at block 293; and before, during, or after the forgoing causing step, causing a

different notifica notification tion communication to be initiated to the

6

he communicated from the T 17 to the system 10, directly or indirectly. In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be designed to receive information regarding an item that is

Exhibit A

Page 104

 

US 7,119,716 B2

74

73

placed on the MT 17 at the stop location or dropped off of As with this embodiment and the others describ described ed in this the MT 17 at the stop location, or both. A machine readable section, the traffic flow predicament data can be stored in a code can be disposed on the item and can be read when the traffic flow predicament data table(s) 68} in the database 94 item is introduced onto or dropped o:tf of the MT 17. The (FIG. SA) and accessed by the message manager 82 (FIG. information communicated to the system 10 can be the code s SB). The traffic flow predicament data can take a variety o f or a derivative thereof. forms, and it can be s y s t e m ~ d e f i n e d , u s e r ~ d e f i n e d , or a In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be combination thereo thereof. f. designed to select the MT 17 from a plurality o f MTs 17, As a nonlimiting example, the traffic flow predicament based upon user-defined or system-defined notification pref data can take the fonn o f time periods during the day 10 erences. correlated to a road segment, indicating how long it should In alternative embodiments, the system 290 can be take a motor vehicle under normal circumstances to traverse designed to receive from the PCD 75 an identification or that road segment during the different time periods. As one characteristic of a thing to be picked up at the stop location. way to accomplish this, in a traffic flow predicament data Moreover, the system 290 can optionally be designed to table(s) 68 (FIG. SA), the following could be a record of communkate the thing identification or characteristic to a 15 fields (or this information could be related and retrieved communications device associated with the MT 17. from several tables or u b ~ t a b l e s : R O A D ~ S E G M E N T ~ 0 4 4 TIME-OF-DAY-6-7, TRAVERSAL-TIME-PERIOD. The In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 first of the foregoing fields identifies the road segment as can employ the functionality described in U.S. Pat. No. number 044, which is Main Street in this example. The 6,360,101 for tracking the proximity o f the PCD 75 to the 20 second field identifies the time period o f the day, i.e., 6:00 location or region and issuing a notification to the PCD 75. am to 7:00 am, and this infonnation is correlated with the U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,101, which is incorporated herein by road segment 044. The third field identifies the time period reference, describe describess a P S ~ r e c e i v e r ~ e q u i p p e d mobile comM to traverse the segment 044 when this type o f traffic flow is munications device, such as a cellular telephone, tlmt d e t e r ~ in existence, mines its current location and compares the ClllTent location 25 o f one or more target locations. When the device is at or near s a specific example o f raffic flow flow predi cament data and one o f the target locations, then the device annunciates its how it can be used to effect the timing o f a notification, arrival by generating an audible alarm, or displays or transM consider the following. 1t may take 10 minutes to traverse mits a predetermined arrival message. The target location(s) Main Street at between 6:00am and 7:00am, but it may take can be entered manually at the device with the keypad, can 30 minutes to traverse Main Street between 7:00 am and 30 be obtained via a positioning receive receiver, r, or can be loaded via 9:00 am. So, continuing this example, assume that the stop a server connected to a communications network. location locatio n for the vehicle is at the end o f Main Street, assume that the user preferences indicate that the user would like to U. Notif ications Bas ed Upon Traffic Traffic Flow Predicament Data be notified 10 minutes prior to arrival of the vehicle at the The notification system 10 may be designed to take into stop location, assume that the vehicle has just arrived at the acco1mt traffic flow flow and any thi ng that can influ ence traffic traffic 35 beginning o f Main Street, and assume that it is 8:30 am. flow when determining when and if notification c o m m u n i ~ With these assumptions, t he BS manager41, particularly, the cations should be initiated. message manager 82 (FIG. SB) can be designed to wait to .1\lthough not limited to this application, this feature is make the notification until it is detected that the vehi cle is ¥ 3 particularly useful when the system 10 is to initiate a of he way throu gh :M :Main ain Street. However, if he time of day 40 notification when an MT 17 is a predefined proximity in were 6:30 am, then the BS manager 41 can be designed to terms of time f 'Om a stop location. This predefined p r o x ~ make the notification, at once, when it is detected that the imity can be system-defined via any suitable progra.mming vehicle started on Main Street. mechanism or u s e r ~ d e f i n e d via predefined user preferences. Carrying this example further, further, the BS manager 41 could Tbis feature is also useful to trigger a notification to a user be designed to, recognize that Main Street is wet and slick, to enable the user to plan for a best transmit route (see third

45

embodiment, hereafte hereafter). r). 1 First Embodiment

n one possible embodiment, among others, the BS man ager 41 can be configured to implement the following

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 f 17 to traverse Main Street.

s As a further example o f raffic flow predicame nt data, the algorithm, as denoted by reference numeral 210a in FIG. traffic flow predicament data could include the real time 19A: monitoring travel data associated witl1 an MT 17, as detection of an accident, the knowledge of construction denoted at block 311; scheduling a notification c o m m u n i ~ work, the knowledge o f a reduced speed limit due to road cation, such as in a calJ queue in message manager 82 FlG. work or some other reason on a road segment and its effect SB), as denoted at block 312; analyzing tra:ffic flow p r e c l i c a ~ 55 on traffic flow (e.g., one o f three lanes may be blocked, so ment data associated with a travel path (e.g., a road) to be it will take 33 longer for a motor vehicle to traverse the traveled by the MT 17, as denoted at block 313; and road segment, the speed limit is now 25 mph instead o f 45 rescheduling the notificati notification on communication, such as in the mph, etc.). As one way to accomplish this, in a traffic flow call queue of message manager 82 (FIG. 58 , based at least predicament data tablc(s) 68} (FIG. SA), the following could in part upon the traffi trafficc flow pred icament data, as denoted at 60 be a set o f fields that can be related and retrieved: R O A D ~ block 314. As can be appreciated by this methodology, the SEGMENT-044, TRAFFIC-FLOW-02, TRAVERSAL internal scheduling of he notification communication can be TIME·PERIOD. TI1e first of the aforementioned fields idenM initiated later, or delayed, or in the alternative, initiated tifies the road segment as number 044. The second field

earlier, based upon the influence of heavy or light traffic, adverse or favorable environmental conditions, etc., so that the system-defined or user-defined advance notification is more accmately timed and implemented.

65

identifies the num ber o f lanes that are open, i.e., two of hree identifies lanes are open for traffic flow (there are other entries that include TRAFFIC-FLOW-OJ and TRAFFIC-FLOW-03), and this infor mation is is correlated with the road segment 044.

Exhibit A

Page 105

 

US 7,119,716 B2 75

76

The third field identifies the time period to traverse the

munication session, providing a message indicating a state o f raff raffic ic flow along the travel pa th (e.g., there will be a delay and perhaps to wha t extent, traf traffic fic is flowing at an acceptable level and perhaps to what extent, etc.), as indicated at block

segment 044 when this type of traffic flow is in existence.

As yet another example example of traffi trafficc flow predic ament data, the traffic flow flow predi cament data could include infOrmation infOrmation

concerning the environmental or physical conditions asso

5

ciated with a road segment and the effect of such conditions

on traffic flow, For instance, the environmental conditions

could be whether the road segment is exhibited by fog, rain,

333. The BS manager 41 can be configured to store the travel path at issue, which can be, for example, one or more road

could also be waterways, airspace, etc., in the segments (butvehicles) snow, darkness, sun, dryness, slickness, numerous pot boles, case of other 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, 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. s 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 8j (FJG. (FJG. SA), the following co uld be a retrievable identification of the travel path, a delay acceptance thresh set o f fields: fields: ROAD-SEGMFNT-044 , ENVJRONMFNT-05, old, which is a metric that can be used to determine whether TRAVERSAL-TIME-PERIOD, The first of the foregoing the travel path is acceptable or unacceptable and which is fields identifies the road segmen t as numbe r 044. The second used by the BS manager 41 to trigger a notification com field 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. The BS manager 41 initiates the noti corresponds 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 fog. predicament data, but also upon one or more other userAs with this embodiment and others to be describ ed 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 thre threshold shold can be expressed or entered/selected by a user. user. Further more, the parameters or in any suitable terms to enable the determination o f whether metrics that can be used to trigger a notification communi or not a delay is acceptable. For example, the delay accepcation can be system-defined, user-defined (in user prefer tance threshold could be expressed in tenns of percentages: ences data, such as in table 68b , or a combination thereof. 30 i traff traffic ic traveling along the path will take 50 longe r than 2. Second Effibodiment usual, then initiate the notification 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 o f delay time: if traffic traveling along the path will be algorithm, as denoted by reference numeral 310b and illus delayed by an additional 10 minutes, then initiate the noti trated in FJG. 198: monitoring travel data associated \V ith an 35 fication communication. As still another example, the MT 17, as indicated at block 321; determining a notification threshold could be expressed in terms of speed: if traffic time period, as indicated at block 322,-by reading a system traveling along the path is 45 mph or greater, then initiate the defined or user-defined time period (in user preferences notification communication. data); analyzing traffic flow predicament data associated In alternati alternative ve embodiments, the notification communica with 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, based upon the current location o f he MT 17, only traffic flow flow predica ment data, but also upon one or more the ultimate stop location, and the known 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 o f the day (e.g., between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, after 7:00 at block 323; and determining when a notification commu- 45 pm, in the evening, etc.). As an example, tl1e BS manag er 41 nication should be initiated (earlier or later), based upon the can be designed to initiate the notification communication at notification time period, the influence o f traffic that is 5:00pm, or in the alternative, between 5:00pm and 6:00pm, derived from the traffic flow predicament data, and other if the path will take only and when traf traffic fic traveling along user preferences, if any, as indicated at block 324. longer than usual. As another example, , the BS 3. Third Embodiment 50 50 manager 41 can be designed to initiate the notification Although not limited to this application, the following communication at 5:00 pm, or in the alternative, between emhodlment is particularly useful in a case where a party 5:00pm and 6:00pm, only if raffic traveling along the path would like to know if and when travel flow is being will be delayed by at least 10 minutes. As yet another hindered, is acceptable, or is being expedited on a road segment, so that the party in a vehicle can better plan hisJher 55 example, the BS manager 41 can be designed to initiate the notification communication at 5:00 pro, 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, i 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 dited. 60 user-defined. In this possible embodiment, the BS manager 41 is In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be designed to determine a location or region of the PCD 75 in accordance with techniques described previously in this

configured to implement the following algorithm, as denoted by reference number 310c and as illustrated in FIG. 19C: analyzing traffic flow predicament data associated with a

travel path to be traveled by a party or MT 17, as indicated at block 331; iilltiating a notificati on communkation session with a PCD 75, based upon th e traffic flow predicament data, s indicated at block 332 332;; and during the notification com-

6

document (see Response Systems). From this information, the BS manager 41 can be equipped with suitable algorit algorithms hms for determining the travel path to be traveled by the party or the PCD 75.

Exhibit Page 106

 

US 7,119,716 B2 77

The BS manager 41 can determine direction of travel by receivi ng two or more location values fro from m the P CD 75 th that at are spaced in time. The BS manager 4 can also detennine direction of travel based upon a known destination of the PCD 75. From this location and direction information, the BS manager 4 can anticipate travel paths, such as road segments, that will be traversed by the party or MT 17

78 device), the concepts can be employed in connection with

one or more first devices 75 and one or more second devices, in virtually any c ombination thereof.

In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 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 ali during the notification com munication session initiated by the system 10 to the second PCD 75. Tills can be useful in many circumstances, such as

As a specific nonlimiting example,system assume10 that party has given instructions to the notification to aadvise the signature re in order to drop off party of any unacceptable road segments when the party 10 when a delivery vehicle needs a signatu a package, a nd therefore, the delivery vehicle dr driver iver,, who is starts to return home after work at 5:00pm Further assum assumee associated with the first PCD 75 needs to know whether a that the party can take two different routes (which can be party associated with the second PCD 75 will be available at communicated to the notification system 10 by the user or the stop location to sign for the package. A response by the determined by the notification system 10 based upon a knowledge of the user destination): (a) from the workpl workplace ace 15 party that gets communicated eventually to the driver wiU enable the driver to schedule deliveries deliveries accordingly. accordingly. to First Street to Elm Street to 416 Barker Street, or (b) from In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 the work-place to McCle11andAvenue McCle11andAvenue to West Mor ton Street can be equipped with functionality functionality to detennine w hether or to 416 Barker Street, or (c) from the workplace to McClel not a response is necessary from the second PCD 75. For to In land A venue Domino Avenue to 416 Barker Street. this scenario, further assume that the party and PCD 75 com 20 example, the notification system 10 could track whether or not deliveries need a signature in database 94 (FIGS. 5Aand mence onto McClelland. When the notification system 10 5B), such as in a package data table(s) 68k For those determines the location of the PCD 75 to be McClelland, requiring a signatu signature, re, the s ystem 10 would invoke a require then the BS manager 41 can be designed to select the next ment for a response. For those not requiring a sign signature, ature, the one or more road segments that correspond to the one or more possible routes that have been taken and to analyze 25 system 10 would not invoke a requirement for a response. The notification system 10 can be designed to communi those one or more road segments in terms of traffic flow

predicament data. 1n the present scenario, further assume cate the status of one or more responses to the first PCD 75. For example, the status could b bee Confirmed for the that the notification system 10 has determined that West situation where a response has been received and the notified Morton Street is unacceptable based upon the delay accep pickup/delivery,, Uncon tanc e threshold and the present traff traffic ic flo flow w predicament data data 30 party is willing to commit to the pickup/delivery fnme d for the situation where a response has been received associated with West Morton Street. In this situation, the BS and the notified party does not want to commit to the manager 41 will advise the party via the PCD 41 of his fact, pickup/delivery or it is unclear whether the notified party in whic h case the party can decide to travel route (c) instead wishes to commit, and and Waiting for the situation situation where a o f route b) to get home. 35 response that has not been received at all from the notified V Systems and Methods for Monitoring Travel ofPCDs and party. Communica ting Messages Between PCDs

In a design where the fir first st PCD 75 is shown the status of multiple notifications, the system 10 can be designed to enable the party associated with the fir first st PCD 75 75 to make a are PCDs 75 an d communicating notificatio notifications ns a nd responses 40 selection of one of the entries, such as by touch tone, among the PCDs PCDs 75, 75, as more partic particularl ularly y descr described ibed hereafhereaftouching touching a screen screen,, voice recogniti recognition on (IVR), (IVR), etc. etc. TI 1e system ter. 10 can be designed to communicate an indlcation of the 1 First Embodiment selection to the selected ones of the PCDs 75. This feature One embodiment, among others, can be practiced by the would be useful in the context of a delivery vehicle 17 so 111enotificationsystem10maybedesignedtoimplement systems and methods for monitoring travel of MTs 17 that

notification 10,methodology, particularly inwhich the manager and involves the system following following is shown41, in FIG. 20A and denoted by reference numeral 340a: monitoring travel data associated with a first PCD 75, as indicated at block 341; causing a notif notification ication communication session session to be initiated to a second PC D 75, the notification communicati on session including a message requesting a response response and a travel status report indicating a proximity of the first PCD 75 to a location, as indlcated at block 342; receiving the respon se from the second PCD 75, as indkated at block 343 343;; and comm1micating comm1micating the response to the first PCD 75 (the one being tracked 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 locatio location n of he device device 75 itself or can be indirectly related to the device 75, e.g., 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 simplicit simplicity y in connect ion with a fi first rst device 75 75 (the tracked device that that receives a response) and a second devic devicee 75 (the notif notified ied

45 of thatthe thedriver's driver can noti notifY fY to thedeliver prospective package recipients to them. intention a package In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can be designed to rece ive a message from the first first PCD 75

and communicate the messa ge to the the ssecond econd PCD 7 75 5 du during ring

50 the notification communication session. The message can be

virtually anything, for example, Can you meet me at Pizza Hut n 20 minutes. In alternative embodiments, the notification system 10 can be equipped with fu functionality nctionality to enable the party 55 associated with the second PCD 17 (notifi (notified ed party) to sele ct 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 Embodlment 60 Another embodiment, among others, can be practiced by the notification system 10, particularly in the manager 41, and involves the foil owing methodology, which is shown in FIG. 20B and denoted by reference numeral 340b: 340b: monitaring travel data of a first PCD 75, as denoted at block 351; 6 receiving a message from the first PCD 75, the message including a request for a response, as denoted at block 352; initiating a notification notification communication having the message

Exhibit A Page 107

 

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8

79

and a trave travell status status report of he first PCD 75 to a second PCD 75, as denoted at block 353; receiving the response from the second PCD 75; and commu nicating the response to the first first PCD 75, as denoted at block 354,

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 firs firstt PCD 75 associated with a delivery vehicle wishes to confirm or advise a notified PCD 7S or party that the party has been officially placed on a delivery list. Furthermore, a party can indicate in user preferences in table 68b o f database 94 FIG. SA) that the party would like to

The travel status report can indicate a proxim ity in tterms erms o f 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

75 has geographic arrived at aregion, location, that the first PCD 75 is in aPCD par ticular etc. Ibe response from the second PCD 75 can indicate a number o f possibilities, including but not limited to, whethe whetherr or not a second party associated with the second PCD 75 is willing to meet a first party associated with the first PCD 75

have confirmation reply. can indicate any o f a number of Thea travel status report things, for example but not limited to, to, a proximi ty in terms oftime distance, or number o f 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 t the stop location, whether or not a second party associated first PCD 75 is within a predetennined proximity wit11 the second PCD 7S is willing to accept responsibility rs when the first for a pickup or delivery at the stop location. o f a stop location, region, or a location of the one or more plurality ofPCD 75s, can be initiated when the first PCD 7S The stop location can be remote from the locations of the has left a location, region, or stop location, can be initiated first and second PCD 75s. The second PCD 75 c ould also also be when the plurality ofPCDs are within a prescribed number located at or in close proximity to the stop location. n alternative embodiments, first PCD 75 or the notificaa 20 of stops or distance o f the first PCD 75, etc. In alternat alternative ive embodiments, the BSCU 40, particularly the during the tion system 10 can communicate another message during BS manager 41, can be configured to determine whether or notification communication session that indicates to the not a response to a notification communication is necessary second party associated with the second PCD 75 one or more based upon the nature o f he delivery/pickup e.g., a package criteria for a r esponse to be effective. For example, the one or more criteria may include one or more of the following: following: 25 requiring a signature would like to be delivered, and there fore, a person needs to be at the stop location to sign for the a time limit to respond, a travel distance limit associated 1

with travel o f the first PCD 7S, a limit based upon the first PCD 75 traveling to a particular location or region, or a limit

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 based upon one or more acceptance responses from other 3 service, etc.). When a stop does not requi re a response, it can PCD 75s. be scheduled with the other stops that do require a response. In alternativ alternativee embodiments, the one or more criteria can As an example, see FIG, 26. e communicated to the notification system 10 from a The responses from the notified PDC s) 75 can indicate suitable communications device, such as but not limited to, via suitable text messaging, voice commands, depression of the first PCD 75, and stored in user preference data in user data table 8b FIG. SA). Or, the criteria can be system-   5 keys on a keypad to emit tones, etc.) whether or not a party associated with a notified PCD 7S is willing to accept defined via suitable programm programming. ing. responsibility responsib ility for a plckup or delivery at a stop location or 3. Third Embodiment meet a first party associ ated with the first PCD 7S at the stop Yet another embodiment, a mong others, can be practiced location, The stop location can be remote from the locations notification tion system 10, particularly in the manager41, y the notifica and involves the following methodology, whlch is shown in 4 o f the first and second PCD 7Ss. FIG. 20C and denoted by reference numeral340c: monitor Another message can be communicated by the BSCU 40 to the notified PCD s) 7S during the notification communi ing travel data associated with a first PCD 7S, as indicated cation that indicates one or more criteria for a respon se to be at block 361; initiating a notification communication session to a plurality o f PCD 7Ss the notification communication effective. The one or more criteria could include, for including a message requesting a response, as indicated at 45 example but not limited to, one or more of the following: a block 362; receiving responses from one or more of the time limit FIG. 25A), a travel distance Emit associated with plurality o f PCDs 7S, as indicated at block 363; and pro travel of he first PCD 7S FIG. 25B), a limit based upon the first PCD 7S traveling to a particular location or region FIG. ducing a list of stops for the first PCD 75, based upon the 25C), or a limit based upon one or more acceptance responses, the lack o f responses, or a combination thereof, as indicated at block 364. Although not limited to this s responses from other PCD 75s FIG. 2SD). application, the foregoing methodology is particularly useful In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be in connect ion with pac kage delivery services. services. designed to receive the one or more criteria from a com The stop list can be produced at the notification system munications device, for example the first PCD 75. Such criteria can be stored in user preference data, 10 such as in the BSCU 40, at the first PCD 75 th at is being tracked see FIG. 26 and accompanying discussion), or at a 55 In alternative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can be computer that is communicatively coupled to either. f configured to enable a par ty associated wit h the first PCD 75 produced remote from the firs firstt PCD 75, then the list can be to select whether or not a response is requested of a notified communicated to the first PCD 75, stored therein, and party during a notification communi cation sessio session. n. In the preferred embodiment, the software architecture displayed, if desired, to enable a party associated with the first PCD 7S to take appropriate delivery/pickup action, 6 associated with the BS manager 41 implements failure states The stop list can be a list o f predetennined stop locations locations in connection with the request for a response. A failure state or stop numbers, can be street address, longitude/latitude occurs when a state o f a variable has been reached without designations, etc. receiving a response back from th e notified party. Intemally, In altemative embodiments, functionality for accepting a a failure state causes the system to terminate notification reply from the first PCD 75 and communicating the reply to 65 communication attempts and to ensure that a stop associated the one or more plurality o f PCDs 75 that have responded with the failed communicat ion attempts is not scheduled on can be implemented in the BSCU 40 or in the first PCD 75 the stop list. A failure state can also be shown on a screen or Exhibit

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81

82

otherwise indicated to the operator of the first PCD 75, as is shown in FIGS. 25A through 25D. A failure state can be system-defined or user-defined, and can be stor ed in table 68b (FIG. SA) and/or failure state data table 68/ (FIG. SA). A<> illustrated in FIGS. 25A through 25D, a set of nonlimiting examples of failure state variables are as follow follows: s: (a) a time period variable (FIG. 25A) pertaining to the

FIG. 23 is a graphical illustration o f a possible architec· ture for implementing th e direct conununicatio ns configuration between a tracked PCD 75 in the form of an in-vehicle navigation system and one or more other PCDs 75d 1Sh. The in-vehicle navigation system 75 has functional blocks 425- 428 and optional functional blocks 431 -43 3, which can be implemented as part of the MT manager 29 or as separate

5

of time amount has as eelapsed lapsed invocatio n of the notification; whenthat the h time perio d since variable has expired, it triggers a failure state; (b) a distance variable pertaining to 10 the distance traveled traveled b by y the tracked fi first rst PCD 75 (FIG. 25B) since invocation of the notification; when the firs firstt PCD 75 has traversed a prescribed distance that is monitor ed with the distance variable, then a failure state can be invoked; (c) a predetermined location variable (FIG. 25C) pertaining to a 15 location to be traversed by the moving/tracke d first PCD 75; in other words, once the PCD 75 has reached this predetermined location, then a failure state will result; and d) an acceptance variable FJG. 2SD) which tracks the number of responses and/or acceptances associated with notification 20 communications; this is useful in a configuration where a number of parties have been invited invited to visit a particul particular ar location {e.g., {e.g., a rest restaurant), aurant), and there aare re only a limited number of openings; as an example, the system can be set to accept the first party to respond to the notification and 25 invoke a failure state n connectio n with all other notifica· tions (which can be communicated, if desired, to the other PCD s 75 that responded late). In altemative embodiments, the BS manager 41 can he designed to communicate an additional message to the 30 plurality of one or more PCDs 75. As an example, this could be a description of the MT 17 or of the driv driver. er. In alternative embodiments, a status of the respons responses es can be communicated by the BSCU 40 to the first PCD 75. As an example of a possible scheme for indicating status, the 5 following text coding cold be employed and could be displayed on a displ display ay associated with the first PCD 75: w for waiting for a response, c for confirmed indicating that a response was received and delivery/pickup is to occur, and u for unconfirmed indicating indicating that a response was rec received eived 40 and a delivery/pickup is not to occur) In alternative embodiments, the BSCU 40 can be designed to enable a party associated with one or more of he plurality ofPCD 75s to selecl or enter a time for a pickup or

software as is1 shown FIG. FIG . 23. The to MTcause manager 29 (also routines, see FIGS. and 2)in is designed the navigation system 75k to provide a list of locations of interest, such as local restaura nts in this example. At present, such technology is known in the art. The user is permitted to select a listed item, in this case, case, the XYZ Itallan Restaurant has been selected via the user interface buttons that are shown. As shown, the display indicates that a response is being waited up upon. on. Also, the expected time of arrival (ETA) is shown on the screen in terms o f both time (20 minutes) and distance (12 tniles). Either or both of the foregoing ETAs can be communicated to the PCD 75d, depending upon the desired design. A PCD 75 in the form of a person's networked computer 75d at the XYZ Italian Restaurant is shown receiving a the notification commtmication from the in·v ehicle naviga tion system 75k which asks for a response, i.e., in this example, the party associated with the tracked PCD 75k at issue is attempting to make a reservation at a restaurant having the networked comput er 75d. The text content o f the message that is sent by PCD 75k toPCD75dcanbeenteredbytheuser toPCD75dcanbeent eredbytheuserofthePCD75dusing ofthePCD75dusing

any suitable graphical user interface (GUI) and screen prompts and any suitable hardware inpu t devices, such as buttons 441-443. The content is communicated in pack· etized manner with the other content content associated associated w with ith the notification communic ation. Tite text content could also be prc·stored in the memory associat associated ed with the PCD 75k and selected by the user using any suitable GUJ and screen prompts and user interface buttons 441-443. FIG. 24 is a continuation of the example in FIG. 23 and shows implementation o f response requests and failure states, both of which have been discussed previously. As illustrated in FIG. 24, the PCD 75d at the XYZ Italian Restaurant is used to send a response message back to the in· vehicle navigation system 75k. In this case, the perso n

delivery at a stop location, and then this information can be 45 operating the PCD 75d create createss a message indicating receipt communicated to the first PCD 75. of the notification and confirming the reservation at a 4. Example Implementations of Tracked PCD to Notifie Notified d particular time, i.e., 6:40pm., ru1d communicate communicatess this mes PCD Communicat ions sage back to the PCD 75k, so that the part y associated with FIG. 21 is a graphical illustration of an example of a the PCD 75k knows that the reservation is properly schednotification system 10 having a base station control unit 40 50 uled. monitoring travel of PCDs 75 and capable o f communicat· Another part of the software architecture associated with ing notification s and responses amon g the various PCDs 75. the PCD 75k is shown at blocks 451-457. Although not A PCD 75 in the form of a per son 's network ed comput er 75d limited to this configuration, this functionality in this is shown receiving a notification notification communication fro from m one example is implemented in the MT manager 29 FJGS.l and of the tracked PCDs 75a-75c, which asks for a response, 55 2). As is clear, the user of the PCD 75k can indicate that a i.e., in this this example, the party associated with the tracked response should be requested (in user preferences stored in PCD 75 at issue is attempting to make a reservation at a PCD 75k or othenvise during interaction with PCD 75k). restaur ant having the networked compute r 75d. The PCD 75k can also be configured to determine that a FIG. 22 is a graphical illustration o f possibl e ways in response is necessary based upon the type of notification which communic communications ations can occur between a tracked PCD 75 60 communicat communication ion (e.g., a package requiring a signature would and a notified PCD 75. As shown, one embodiment involves like to be delivered, and therefore, a perso n needs to be at the indire ct communications using the BSCU 40, while the stop location to sign for the package). other invo lves direct communications bet betv,r v,reen een the PCDs 75. The software architecture further implements failure In the latter case, the functionality that that would have been states in connection with the request for a response. A failure associated with the BSCU 40 is incorporated 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 receiv ing a response bac k from the notified party. devices 75. Internally, a failure state causes the system to terminate Exhibit

Page 109

 

US 7,119,716 B2

83 notificat ion communic ation attempts.

84 failure state can also

be shown on a screen or otherwise 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-d user-defined, efined, and can be stored in table 68b (FIG. SA) and/ or failure state data table 68 (FIG. 5A). As illustrated in FIGS. 25A through 25D, a set of non-

in blocks 475 478, there is looping process for determinlng

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 exampl e, the two foregoing processes execute concurrently. In this example, the PCD 75c can be designed to retrieve

withinthe limiting examples failure (FIG. state variables are as follo follows: stops a particular distance he PCDas75c (e.g., a (a) a time period of variable 25A) pertaining the 3allmile radlus), location of which of indicated to ws: is known, amount of time that has elapsed since invocation of the 10 at blocks 471-472. Then, a list is created and iteratively notification; when the time period variable has expired, it updated, at blocks 473 and 474. Once a stop is tentatively triggers a failure state in the PCD 75k; (b) a distance variab variable le added to the route or listing of stop stops, s, via blocks 47-474 , then pertaining to the distance traveled by the tracked PCD 75k the looping process associated with blocks 475--4 475--478 78 ana(FlG. 25B) since invocation of the notificat notification; ion; when the lyzes the st stop op type to detennine if the stop requires a PCD 75k has traversed a prescribed li stance that is mon.i- 15 response and if the required response bas been received n tare d with the distance variable, then a failure state can be this example, if a stop is OS or if a stop is IS (requires a invoked in the moving/tra moving/tracked cked PCD 75 75k; k; (c) (c) a pred predetereterresponse) response) and the response was was rece received, ived, then blocks mined location variable (FIG. 25C) pertaining to a locatio location n 473-47 4 cause the stop to be officially added to the stop list. moving /tracked ked PCD 75k; in other Otherwise Otherwise,, when the stop is IS and no response was to be traversed by the moving/trac words, once the PCD 5k determines that i t has reached this 20 received, then the stop is removed per block 474. Furtherpredete rmined location, 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 (FIG. 250 which track trackss the classified as 1S or OS. number of respons responses es 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 nwnber of parties have been invited to visit a 25 predetermined route 505, or stop list, with a number of particular location (e.g., a restaurant), and there are only a prescheduled delivery stops, for example, destinations 01

limited number of openings; as an example, the system can through #03 #03.. In th this is embodiment, the BS manager 41 or be set to accept the first party to respond to the notifica notification tion PCD 75c has functionality 500 that is designed to cause a and invoke a failure state in connection with ali other notification communication to be initiated to a PCD 75d at notifications (which can be communicated, if desired, to the 30 a point whe n the tracked PCD 75c is a predefined proximity, oth er PCDs 75 that responded late). for example_, at or about 30 minutes, from a delivery FIG. 26 26 illust illustrat rates es an emb embodi odimen mentt th that at can be irnp irnple le-des destin tinatio ation n .AJso, the BS manager 41 is designed so that a mented, if desired, in connection with a vehicle having a failure state will occur if a response is not received from the route-or-stop-list device 75c (FIG. 21) that determines PCD 75d 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 associuse r 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 confinnation, for example, via suitable vice, etc.) of the stop. text (e.g., Confirmed Confi rmed or No Response Response in the event of a In this nonlimiti.ng nonlimiti.ng example, a determination is made as to ±ailure ±ailure state) on a screen associated with the PC PCD D 75d, so 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 be obtained to drop off a package, or not to make the stop at destination #03. a person must inspect an item before dropo:ff, a person must FIG. 28 is an illustration showing an embodiment involvpersonal ly provide an item for pickup, a user has requested ing a delivery vehicle with tracked PCD 75c that has a that a response from from the user must b bee received before the predetermine d route 506 506,, or stop list, with a number of 45

or (b) outside user is scheduled a delivery/pickup, etc.) service (OS; for 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 item to the pickup vehicle, etc.). The functionality associated with this embodiment, as 50 defined at blocks 471-478, can be implemented in the BSCU 40 and.Jor the tracked PCD 75c. In this embodiment, it is implemented solely in the PCD 75c, and the route or stop list that is generated and periodically changed by the PCD 75c is periodically communicated to the BSCU 40. Furthermore, 55 in terms of external controls and user interlacing, the PCD 75c has, as shown in FIG. 26, a screen for listing stops and the type of stop, a notify button to initiate a no notificatio tification n communication, a retry button to retr retry y a no noti tifi fica cati tion on co commmunication, a move button to move a cursor on the screen 6 and/or to move through the stop list, a menu button to move through various various men menus us and submenus, submenus, and a cursor m mov oveement control with arrows in the center, which can be also be used to scroll through the listing of stops stops.. In terms of internal programming, as shown in blocks 65 471--474, there is a loopin looping g proc process ess for creati creating ng,, de deter termin min-ing ing,, and/or changing the route or stop li list, st, an and d as illust illustrated rated

prescheduled stops, for example, through #06. delivery In this embodimen embodiment, t, the BSdestinations manager 41 04 or PCD 5c has functionality that is designed to cause a notification communication communication to b bee initiated to a PCD 75 at a point when the tracked PCD 75c is a predefined proximity in tenns of distance from a delivery destination. Also, the BS manager 41 is designed so that a failure state will occur if a response is not received from the notified PCD 75 based upon one or more failure state criteria. Furthermore, the driver associated with the tracked PCD 75d is notified ofthe occurrence of he failure state or confinnation, for example, via suitable text (e.g., Confirmed or No Response in the event of a failure state) on a screen associated with the PCD 75d 75d,, which in this case, is in the form of an in-vehicle naviga navigatio tion n sy syst stem em,, so that the driver associated with the PCD 75c knows whether or not to make particular stops. As shown on the screen screen,, tw two o deliveries have been ccononfirmed firmed,, and the ssystem ystem still still awa awaits its a response response iinvolvin nvolving g th thee delivery for destination #04 #04.. The PCD 75c can be equipped with suitable programming to enable the driver to scroll through and select (e.g., via arrows on menu button and sele select ct butt button ons, s, as shown) or otherwise enter the deliveries that the driver intends to make, based upon the confirmation confirmation//

Exhibit A Page110

 

US 7,119,716 B2

85 no-response information pertaining to each destination as well as the distance information provided to the driver on the screen. This selection or entry, or infonnation indicative indicative thereof, can be communicated from the PCD 7Sc to the appropriate confirmed PCD directly or indirectly via the BSCU 40, depending upon the notification system imple mentation. In some implementations, the selection or entl) information is communicated only to the BSCU 40 for tracking purposes and is not fonvarded to the confirmed PCD. 10 FIG. 29 is an illustration o f another embodiment involvM ing a delivery vehicle having a PCD 7Sc which shows functio nality at blocks Sll-,-515 that can be programmed into the PCD 75c for updating a stop list based upon whether or not responses were received. The software can be designed 15 to show confirmed and unconfinned (no response) stops or to show only confinned stops, as desired, on the screen of the PCD 75c FIG. 30 is an illustration of an embodiment that can be implemented at the BSCU 40, such as the BS manager 41 20 (FIGS.1 and3) or at theMTCU 15, such as the MTmanager 29 (FJGS.l and 3), showing implementation of failure states in connection with responses and nonresponses to notificaM tion commtmications in the context o f a deliv ery vehicle. vehicle. As shown at respective blocks 542 and 543 and as described 25 previously, failure states can be user defined and/or system system defined. Furthermore, failure states can be defined in a number o f ways, a few examples o f which are indicated at

86

o f 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 notific notification ation communica communication. tion. 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. 5A), such as in users preferences in user data table(s) 68b. FIG. 34 shows another example of a possible user inter face screen that can be generated by the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in connection with the response systems (and methM ads). This screen can be used separately or in addition to the one o f 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 nonresponses (failure states). These s e l c c ~ tions 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 communicated to a notified par party, ty, while reference numeral 60S illustrates a selection for enabling the party to define what will occur when no response is received by the BSCU 40. An example o f a screen for enabling a party

to select such options is shown in FIG. 39.

blocks 544-548.

Referring now to FIG. 35, FIG. 35 shows anot her example FIG. 31 is an illustration of another embodiment that can 30 of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by be implemented at the BSCU 40, such as the BS manager 41 the GUI of FIG. 3 and used in connection wifu the response (FIGS.1 and3) or at the MTCU 15, such as theMTmanager systems (and methods). Tbis screen can be used separately or in addition to those screens of FIGS. 33 and 34. 9 (FIGS. 1 and 3), showing implementation of failure states n connection with responses and nonresponses to n o t i f i c ~ As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections tion communications in the context o f a delivery vehicle. 35 from a party that will b e used by the BS manager 41 in Blocks 561-568 represent the high level architecture of the connection with nonresponses (and occurrence of failure software. As illustrated, illustrated, the stop list c an be determined and states). These selections can be stored in the database 94

changed dynamically, based upon responses and

n o n r e ~ (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user datci table{s) spouses .Also, a request for a pickup can be introduced into 68b. Reference numeral608 illustrates a question relating to the stop Jist o f scheduled deliveries at any point. 40 when a failure state should occur after a notification and FIG. 32 is an illustration of an embodiment of route data response request have been communicated to a notified 471 and corresponding driver display data that can be party) while reference numeral 609 illustrates a selection for maintained and implemented in connection with a delivery enabling th party to define what will occur when no or pickup servic service. e. The route data 471 can be maintained at response is received by the BSCU 40. An example o f a

or at both. The drive r display the BSCU at theMTCU 1S,driver display 45 screen for enabling a party to select such options is shown data 472 is40,displayed to the o f the delivery/pickup in FIG. 39. vehicle 17. Note that, in this example, the party can set the system so As indicated at reference nwneral 477 in the driver that a failure state will occur in the event that a notified party display data 472, the status o f response and nonresponses nonresponses to does not respond before the vehicle 17 travels to within a notifications is monitored and shown to the driver. In this s preset number o f stops from a scheduled stop location, or example embodiment, the status is C for confirmed fOr the destination. situat ion where a response has been received and the notified With reference to FIG. 36, FJG. 36 shows another party is willing to commit to the pickup/delivery, is U for example of a possible user interface screen that can be unconfrrmed for the situation where a response has been generated by the GUT of FIG. 3 and us ed in connection with received and the notified p party arty does not want to commit to ss the response systems (and methods). This screen can be used the pickup/delivery or it is unclear whether the notified party separately or in addition to those of FIGS. 33-35. wishes to commit, and is W for waiting for the situation situation As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections where a response that has not been received at all from the notified party. from a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in Preferably, although not necessarily, the BSCU 40, par- 6 connection with failure states. These selections can be stored ticularly the BS manager 41, is equipped with a suitable in the database 94 (FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in graphical user interface (Gill), denoted by referenc referencee user data table(s) 68b. Reference numerals 621 and 622 numeral46 in FIG. 3, to enable a party to cmmnun icate with illustrate questi ons relating t o wh en failure states shoul d

the BSCU 40 via the Internet. FIG. 33 shows an example o f a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the GUI 46 and pushed to the remote communications device device via, for example, HTML ov er the Internet. Other examples

65

occur after a notification and response request have been communicated to a notified party. FIG. 37 shows another example of a possible user interface screen that can be generated by the Gill of FIG. 3 and

Exhibit A Page

 

US 7,119,716 B2

87

88

used in connection with the response systems ;:md meth ods). This screen can be used separately or in addition to

There are many possible variations of this concept. For example, the email could provide a plurality of options, one of which can be selected by the party. Furthermore, there could be different charges associated with different delivery tim e options e.g., more expensive options for faster sservice, ervice, etc.). Further note that this information from the notified party

those of FIGS. 33-36. As shown, this screen can be used to solicit selections from a party that will be used by the BS manager 41 in connect ion with failure states states.. These selections can be stored SA), such as in users preferences in in the database 94 FIG. SA), user data table s)

68b

can be communicated a PCD 75c associated with the delivery vel1icle 17 andto correlated with other scheduling Reference numeral 631 illustrates a marker that can be information the PCD 75c. 1 at moved across a map of streets, for example, via a mouse, and 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 nonresponsiveness that Cause Implementation of one or more Tasks When a on the part of the notified party. The marked location s) Scheduled Notification Notification Communication is not Received pertains to the moving vehide 17 that is headed for the stop A notification failure detection system can be implelocation, or destination, which, n this example, is 1010 Oak 15 mented in connection with a PCD 75 FIG. 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 performed in the event that such PCD 75 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 he notification failure 20 functionality illustrated in FIG. 37 as well as FIG. 38). detection system, system, a mong numerous possible scenario scenarios, s, con FIG. 38 shows another example of a possible user inter sider an -implementation where a service provider e.g., face screen that can be generated by the GU1 of FIG. 3 and maid, pool maintenance worker, lawn care worker, etc.) is used in connection with the response systems (and meth scheduled to provide service at a residential home, and the ods). This screen can be used separately or in addition to servicee provider is to initiate a notifica notification tion communication 25 servic those of FlGS. 33-37. to a PCD 75 at the house. A notification failure detection As used to solicit selections this will screen system situated in or communicatively coupled to the PCD party that be can usedbeby the BS manager 41 in fium ashown, 75 can be designed to mo nltor for the incoming notification connect ion with failure states. These selections can be stored communication. If one does not occur as scheduled, then the in the database 94 FIG. 5A), such as in users preferences in 30 notification failufe detection system can be designed to user data table s) 68b Reference numeral 632 illustrates a perform one or more tasks, for instance, communlcating circle perimeter that can be moved, expanded in size, and/or with another service provider to request service from the reduced in size 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 fiiilure state communicating 1

map pertainlng to when a failure state should occur for 35 with the service provider office, communicating with a nonresponsivcncss on the part of the notified party. The security company that can check on the service provider, or security 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 another 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 i n t r ~ 40 home owner, after completing work each day, is scheduled face screen that can be generated by the GU1 of FIG. 3 and to provide a notification comniunication to a PCD 75 at

used in connection with the response systems and meth ods). This screen can be used separately or n addition to

his/her borne within a prescribed time period, indicating impending arrival. When the notification notification communication is received during the prescribed time period, then the notifi-

those of FIGS. 33-38.

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 failure failure states. This screen enables a party to define what will occur in the event of occurrence of a failure state n connection with nome::.1Jonsiveness by a notified party. These selections can be stored in the database 94 FIG. SA), such as in users preferences in user data table s) 68b Reference numerals 644--648 illustrate possible options that can be selected by the party. FIG. 40 shows an example of another type o f computer network message. As shown in FIG. 40, an electronic mail email) message can be generated and sent by the BSCU 40 FIG. 3) over the Internet and used in connection with the respon se systems and methods).

As illustrated, a party can be sent an email by the BSCU 40 duri ng a notification communication to indicate i m p e n ~ ing arrival of a delivery vehicle at a stop location, such as the party s street address. In this examp le, the .notification communication, in the form of an email sent over the Internet to the party by the BSCU 40 asks the party to identify when the party is available for the delivery. The information input by the party can be utilized to fi fine ne tune the scheduling of the delivery vehicle 17.

45

s

55

6

65

cation detection can besuch designed to dothe noth ing or failure perform one or system more steps, as adjust air conditioning or heater down or up. However, when the notification notificat ion communication is not receiv received ed during the pre scribed time period, then the notification failure detection system can be designed to perform one or more tasks, such as turn on light switches because it will be dark when the home owner approaches since the home owner will be late). When the notification notification communication is received during the prescribed time period, then the notification failure 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 perio period, d, then the noti:ficatim1 failure detection system can be designed to perform one or more tasks, such as communicate with another fire or police station. As yet another example of an application, among numer ous possible scenarios, consider an implementation where the notification failure detection system is designed to monitor a fire or security alarm system associated with a facility and to determine whether a notification communi cation is received from a fire or police station within a prescribed time period after the alann is triggered. When the

Exhibit A Page 112

 

89

us

7,119,716 8 2

90

alann 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 as the own owner, er, another fire department, another police department, etc. • s still another example of an application, among l U m e r ~ ous possible scenarios, the notification failure detection be implement system can edincoming in connection ships ships, can, tankers, or other ships. An vesselwith to acargo harbor be scheduled to send a notification communication (which can include the ship identity and/or other particulars pertaining to the ship and/o r hs cargo) to the harbor master (whic h typically determines when tthe he vessel will dock dock and sends out tug boats) when tthe he incoming vess vessel el is near and ready to dock. TI1e notification failure detection system can be designed to to contact the coas coastt guard or or other securit security y group if a ship is approaching and no not notif ific icat atio ion n ccom omm munication nicati on is rece received ived after after the sship hip has come within a prepredefined proximity of the harbor or dock location. In an alternative embodiment, the notification failure detection system can be designed to contact providers of services (unloade rs, customs personnel, crane operators, truck driv· ers, etc.) that were intending to meet the ship at the dock at a prescribed time or time period, so t11at the se servi rvice ce pro provi vidders can cancel their trips to the dock and/or take other remedi al actions.

CDR CDROM, OM, etc.). Moreover, the memory 714 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, magnetic, optical, andlor other types of storage media. Note that the memory 714 can have a distributed archite cture, where various components are situated remote from one another, but can be accessed by the processor 712. The software in memory 714 may include one or more separate progra ms, each of which comprises an ordered

10

15

20

25

listin g of executable instructions implementing g logical of FIG.for functions. In the example 41,implementin the software in the memory 714 includes notification failure detection sofuvare 710 and a suitable operating system 0/S) 722. A nonexhaustiv e list of examples of suitable commercially available operat ing systems 722 is aass follows: follows: (a) a Windows operating system available available from Microsoft Microsoft Corporat Corporation; ion; (b) a Netware operating system available from Novell, Inc.; (c) a Macintosh opera operating ting system available from Apple Compute puter, r, Tnc.; (e) a lJl ..llX operating system, which is available for purch purchase ase from many vendors vendors,, such such as the HewlettHewlettPacka rd Company, Sun Microsystems, Inc., and AT T Corporation; (d) a LINUX operating system, which is freeware that is readily available on the Internet; (e) a run time Vxworks operating system from WindRiver Systems, Inc.; or (f) an appliance-based operating system, such as that impl impleme emented nted in handhe handheld ld com comput puters ers or personal data assistants (PDAs) (e.g., PalmOS available from Palm Computing, Inc., and Windows CE available from Microsoft Cor-

The noti notifica ficatio tion n failure failure detect detection ion system system can b e impl impleeporation) poration).. The opera operating ting ssyst ystem em 722 722 esse essential ntially ly cont controls rols the men ted in software (e.g., firmware) firmware),, hardware, or a combi· execut ion o f 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, computer-based system that is a combination of hardware memor y management, and communicat ion control and and software. An example of a general purpose computer relat ed services. that can implement the notificatio n failure detection system The notification failure detecti on software 710 is a source is shown in FIG. 41. In FIG. 41, the notification fai failure lure progr am, executable prog ram (object code), script, or any detection system is denoted by reference numeral 701. J5 other entity comprising a set of nstructi nstructions ons to be pcrfo nned. Generally, in tem1s of hardware archit architecture ecture,, as shown shown in When a source program, then the program needs needs tO be FIG. 41, the computer-based computer-based ssystem ystem 701 include includess a proce processtranslated via a compiler, compiler, as assembl sembler, er, interp interpreter reter,, or the like, sor 712, memory 714, and one or more input input and/or outp output ut which may or may not be included within the memory 714, (IIO) devices 716 (or peripheral s) that are communicatively so as to operate properly in connection with the 0/S 722. coupled via a local interface 718. The local interface 718 can 40 Furtbennore, the notification failure detection software 710 -be, for example hut 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 o f data and methods, or (b) a local interf ace 18 may have additional elements, which are procedu re progra mming language, which has routines, subomitted for simplicity, such such as controllers, buff buffers ers (caches (caches), ), routines, and/or functions, for example but not limited to, C,

drivers, repeaters, and receivers, to enable communications. 45 C++, Pascal, Basic, Fortran, Cobol, Perl, Java, and Ada. The optional I/0 devices 716 may include input devices, Further, the local interface may include address, control, and/or data cormcctions cormcctions to enable appropriate appropriate comm commun. un.ica ica-for example but not limited to, a keyboard, mouse, sscann canner, er, tions amon g the aforementioned compon components. ents. microphone, etc. Furthermore Furthermore,, the 1 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 printer, display, etc. Finally, the ]/ 0 devices 716 may further cessor 712 712 can can be any cus custom tom made made or ccomme ommercia rcially lly ava avail il-include include devices devices that co communi mmunicate cate b both oth inpu inputs ts and outputs outputs,, able processor, a central processi ng unit (CPU), an auxiliary for insta nce but not limi ted to, a modulator/demodu lator proc essor among several processors associated with the the (modem; for accessing anothe r device, system, or network), system 701, a semiconductor based microprocessor microprocessor (i (in n the a radio freque frequency ncy (RF) or other transceiver, a telephonic form o f a microchip or chip set), a macroprocessor, or 55 interface, a bridge, a router, etc. generally any device for executing software instructions. f the computer-based notification failure detection sysExamples of suit suitable able commercia commercially lly available available microp microproc rocesester tern n 711 is is a PC, wo workst rkstatio ation, n, or the li like, ke, the the software software in the sors are as follows: a PA-RISC series microprocessor from memory 7 4 may further include a basic input output system Hewlett-Packard Company, an 80x86 or Pentium serie seriess (BIOS) (omitted for simplicity). The BIOS is a set of microprocessor from Intel Corporation, a PowerPC micro- 60 essenti essential al software routines that initialize and test hardware at processor from IBM, IBM, a Spare microprocesso microprocessorr from from Sun startup, start the 0/S 722, and support the transfer of data Micro systems, Inc, or a 68xxx series microprocessor from among the hardware devices. The BIOS is stored in ROM so the Motorola Corporation. that the BIOS can be executed when the system 701 is The memory 714 can include any one or combina combination tion of activated. volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory 6 - When the system 701 is in operation, the processor 712 is (R.t\M, such as DRAM, S:R..t\M, SDR SDRAM, AM, etc etc.)) .)) and nonnonconfi configure gured d to ex execute ecute software software sstore tored d wi within thin the the memor memory y 714, to communicate data to and from the memory 714, and volatile m mory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, Exhibit A 3 Page

 

9

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7,119,716 8 2 92

to generally control operations of he comput er 711 711 pursuant to the software. The notification failure detection software 710 and the 0/S 722, in whole or in part, but typically the latter, are read by the proce ssor 712, perhaps buffere d wit within hin the processor 712, and then executed. executed. The notification failure detection software 710 (as well as any other software that is described in this document), as is

X Other Variations and Modifications

In concluding the detailed description description,, it should be noted that the terminology terminology preferred embodiment herein means one example embodiment currently believed by the inventor(s) to be the best embodiment of a plurality o f possible embodiments. Moreover, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that many variations and modificatio modifications ns may

be

shown in FIG. 41, can be stored on any computer readable transportatjon or use by or in connection with medium for transportatjon

made to the from preferred embodiment(s) withoutinvention. substan tially departing the principles principl es o f he present inventi on. 10 All such variations and modifications are intended to be comput er related sys systems. tems. In the context of this document, included herein within the teachings of he present inventio invention n a computer readable medium is an electronic, magnetic, in this document and to be protected by the scope o f the optical, or other physical device or means that can contain following claims. A few examples of possible variatioru; 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 ofthis 5 With respect to variations, note that although not specifi document, computer-reada computer-readable ble medium can be any cally described for simplicity, any combination o f the vari means that can store, communicate, propagate, propagate, or transport ous systems/methods that have been described under head ings above may be employed in connection with a the program for use by or in cormection with the instruction notification system. For example, use o f authentica authentication tion data execution system system,, apparatus, or device. The computer read able medium can be, for example but not limited to an 20 for secure notification messaging can be employed in con nection with one of the versions o f the response system, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or As another example o f a variation, it is possible to semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation implement the systems and methods o f this patent applica medium. tion in connecti on with notification systems where notificaIn an alternative embodiment, where the notification 25 tions are made from the moving thing itself (those systems failure detection system 701 implemented in hardware, hardware, the that do not utilize a BSCU 40 to implement the notifica notification failure detection system can be implemented tions). Essentially, the functions associated with the BSCU with any or a combination of the following technologies, 40 are implemented in the tracked MT 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 incorpom circuit(s) having loglc gates for implementing logic func 30 rated herein by reference in its entirety. tions upon data signals, an application specific integrated As another example o f a variation, MTCU 15 and/or the circuit (ASIC) having appropriate combinational logic gates, BSCU 40 can be implemented within a single computer a prograrnm.able gdte array(s) (PGA), field programmable system, across a plurality o f computers that are communi gate array (FPGA), etc. catively coupled, or within a computer system having a w example of a possible architecture, among others, o f 35 distributed architecture. the notification failure detection software 710, is shown in As another example o f a variation, the notification system FIG. 42. As iiiustrate iiiustrated d by wa y of flow chart in FIG. 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 o f day, time period, 40 advance o f arrival o f the MT 17 at the location, as with the etc.) associated with the scheduled notification communica notification system 10 described herein. herein. sched tion, as indicated at block 731; determining that the sched As another example o f a variation, the BS manager 41 can uled notification communication failure has occurred, based be designed to cause the notif ication syst em 10 to no notifY tifY the upon the timing information, as indicated at block 732; and user based upon a arrival arrival ti me and/or departure time data in causing one or more tasks to be performed using I/0 a schedule or route of one or more stops associated with the device(s) 716 and/or using PCD 75 based upon the sched 45 MT 17, as opposed to basing the notifica notifications tions on real time uled notification communication failure, as indicated at monitoring of the location o f the MT 17. block 733. TI1e tasks can include, for example but not As another example o f a variation, the BS manager 41 can limited to, initiation o f 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 M r s schedule has been changed or the MT s or transducers, etc. stop at a location has been cancelled, as opposed to waiting

failure Note that failure in the context of the notification failure detection system 701 can be defined as failing to receive a notification communication at a scheduled time or time period, failing to receive a notification communication when the system 701 knows or is advised that the system 701 should have based upon the MT 17 reaching a location or region or distance 11-om the stop location, or as failing to receive proper authentication indicia (which can be stored, accessed, and analyzed in memory 714) during the notifi cation communication session. The authentication indicia, or information, can be any of a number o f things, for example, a caller's telephone number, which can be com pared with an incoming telephone caller ID to determine if there is a match. For other examples, see the section in this document relating to secure notification messaging systems and methods.

55

6

65

on tracking information to determine delay in arrivaJ or departure o f the MT 17. This information could be input manually by a person or it could come from another computer system. The software associated with the BS manager 41 could aJso be configured to enable a user to configure the system so that the user is notified upon a change and/or cancellation. As another example o f a variation, the notification system (as well as the inventions claimed herein) can be employed in connection with an amusement park ride, for instance, a roller coaster, coaster, water vehicle, etc. PCDs 75 can be handed out to prospective passengers of 11e ride, and when appropriate, one 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 form o f tracking can be utilized. For example, a passenger

Exhibit A Page 4

 

US 7,119,716 B2

94

93

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 weil as the inventions claimed herein) can be employed in cormection with electronic tags on assets (e.g., packages, luggage, containers, etc.) that are being warehoused or shipped to notify a party concerning the travel status o f such such

initiating a first notification communication to a personal communications device associated with a party based upon the contact data; receiving a response communication from the party s personal commlmications device; changing the contact data based upon the response com munlcation;

assets. Typically an tag has a controller, trans ceiver controlled by electronic the controller, and a memoryathat is

refraining from sending notification communications to the party s personal personal communications device based controlled by the controller and that stores an identification to upon the change in the contact data; data; and that can be commWlicated commWlicated by the transceiver. U.S. Pat. No. inltiating a second notification communication to the 6,144,301, which is incorporated by reference, describes an party s personal 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 to communicate with the comprises at least receipt of a second communication from operations center 13 and/or the computer 14, both described the party s personal communications 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. Pat. Nos. 6,408,108 and 6,211,781, which are both 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more also incorporated 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. patents. 13. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more events comprises actuation o f a manually or automatically The invention claimed is: actuated switch that is associated with a mobile thing. 1. A method for communications in connection with a 30 14. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step o f computer-based notification system, comprising the steps of: refraining from sending notificatio notification n communications to one initiating a notification communication to a personal or more additional personal communications devices. communications device device associated with a par ty; 15. The method of claim 8 wherein the step of initiating receiving a response communication from the party s a first notification communication is performed when a 35 personal communications device, mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a ndicating 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 are per ciated with the notification 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 par ty s personal communication s system having a distributed architecture. device, until detection of one or more events that 17. The method of claim 8 thither comprising the steps 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. perl orming the step of initiating the first notification 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more events 45 communication based upon the relationship of a mobile comprises at least receipt of a second communi cation 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 o f a predefined time period. mobile thing or another mobile thing to the location or 5 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more events another location. location. comprises at least arr:ival arr:ival or departure of a mobile thing at or 18. A method for communications in connection with a from a location, respectively. computer-based notification notification system and a personal commu 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step o f nications device associated with a party, comprising the refraining from sending notificatio notification n communications to one 55 steps of: or more additional personal communications devices. receiving a notification 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 par 7. 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 comrmmicatively 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 computer-based notification system, comprising the steps of: storing contact data in memory pertaining to one or more party personal communications device;

6

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, indictating that the party is no longer

Exhibit A

Page

 

5

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95 occupied with the task and can perform another task associated with another notification communication. 19. The method o f claim 18, wherein the response com munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. 20. TI1e method o f claim 18, wherein the response com munication is generated by physically detecting the presence

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising the step

o f refraining from sending notificatio notification n communications to r more additional personal communications device. 31. The method o f claim 29, wherein the step o f nitiating the first notification communication is perfonned when a mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a location.

one

of 32. The with method 29, wherein steps are performed a singleclaim computer system, the a plurality of 10 computers that are communicatively coupled, or a computer system having a distributed architecture. 33. The method o f claim 29, wherein the response communication is generated by a physkal action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. 15 34. The method o f claim 29, wherein the response com munication is generated by physically detecting detecting the presence o f the party associated with the personal communications device. 35. A method for communications in connection with a 2 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; 25 refraining from sending notification communications to the party s personal communications device after munications to the party s personal communications device receiving the response communication; and after receiving the response communication, until detection initiating a second notification communication to the o f one or more events. party s persona personall communicat communications ions device, one or more 23. The method o f claim 22, wherein the one or more 3 other personal communications devices, devices, or both, aft er events comprises at least one r more of the following; detection of the scanning of a machine readable code receipt of a second communication from the party s personal on an object. communications device; expiration of a predefined time 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising the step period; r arrival r departure o f a mobile thing at or from o f refraining from sending notifica notification tion communications to a location, respectively. 35 one or more additional personal communications devices. 24. The method of claim 22, further comprising the step 37. The method o f claim 35, wherein the step o f nitiating of refraining :from sending notification communications to the first notification communication is performed when a one or more additional personal communications devices. mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to a 25. The method of claim 21, wherein the step o f nitiating location. the notification commun.lcation.is performed when a mobile 4 38. The method of claim 35, wherein the steps are thing is a predetermin ed proximi ty with respect to a location. perfOrmed with a single computer system, a plurality o f 26. The method o f claim 21, wherein the steps are computers that are communicatively coupled, r a computer performed with a single computer system, a plurality of system having a distributed architecture architecture.. computers that are communicativel y coupled, or a computer 39. The method o f claim 35, wherein the response com45 system having a disttibuled architecture. munication is generated by a physical action taken by the 27. TI1e method o f claim 21, wherein the response com party associated with the personal communications device. munication is generated by a physical action taken by the 40. The method of claim 35, wherein the response com party associated with the personal communications device. munication is generated by physically detecting the presence 28. The method o f claim 21, wherein the response com of the party associated with the personal communications 5 munication is generated by physically detecting the presence device. o f the party associated with the personal communications 41. A method for communications in connection with a device. computer-based notification system, comprising the steps of: 29. A method for communications in connection with a monitoring travel travel data associated with a mobile thing thing;; computer-basednoti fication system, comprising the steps of: initiating a first notification communication to a personal 55 initiating a first notification communication to a personal commuillcations device associate with a party based communications device associated with a party; upon the relationsh relationship ip of the mobile thing to a location; receiving a response communication fro from m the party s receiving a response communication from the party s personaJ comnnmications device; personal cornm1mications cornm1mications device; refraining from sending notification communications to 6 refraining from sending notification communications to the party s personal communications device after the party s personal communications device after receiving the response communication; receiving the response communication; and initiating a second notification communication to the initiating a second notification communication to the party s personal communications device, one or more party s personal communications device, one or more other personal communications devices, devices, or both, based otber personal communications devices, or both, after 65 upon the upon the relations relationship hip o f the mobile thing or detection of a receipt of a second communication iTem the party s personal communications device. another mobile thing to the location or another location location.. of the party associated with the personal conununications device. 21. A method fOr communications in connection with a comput er-bas ed notification system, comprising the steps of: storing contact data in memory pertaining to one or more party personal communications devices, initiating a notification communication to a personal communications device associated with a party based upon the contact data; receivi ng a response communication from the party s personal comnnmications device; changing the contact data based upon the response communication; and modifying a m nner in which future notification commu nications are implemented, based upon the change in the contact data. 22. The method o f claim 21, wherein the step o f moclifying comprises refraining from sending notification com

Exhibit Page 6

 

US 7,119,716 B2

98

97

42, The method of claim 41, further c omprising the step

of refraining from sending notification communications to

one or more additional personal communications devices. devices.

43. The method of claim 41, wherein the step of nitiating the first notification communication is performed when a mobile thing is a predetermined proximity with respect to

the location.

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 o f 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.

of 44. The with method 41, wherein the steps are a singleclaim computer system, a plurality of computers that are communicatively communicative ly coupled, or a computer

one or more 56. The systemato fleast claim 54, wherein events comprises expiration predefined time o f a the 1 period. 57. The system o f claim 54, wherein the one or more architecture. ure. system having a distributed architect events comprises arrival, presence, or departure of a mobile 45. The me1hod o f 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 device. party associated with the personal communications device. 15 events comprises scannlng a machine readable code on an 46. The method o f claim 41, wherein the response comw object. 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 o f a manually or automaticaliy device. actuated switch that is associated with a mobile thing. comprising: 47. A computer-based notificat ion system, comprising: 60. The system o f claim 54, further comprising a means means for initiating a notification communication to a 20 for refraining from sending notification communications to personal communications device associated with a one or more additional personal communications devices. party; 61. The system o f claim 54, wherein the initiating means communication from the means for receiving response communication initiates the firs firstt notification communicat ion when a mobile party s personal communications device, indicating thing a predetermined proximity wiTh respect to a location. 25 is that the party has received the notification communi62. The system claim 54, wherein the storing means, of cation and is now occupied with a task associat ed with the firs first t initiating means, the receiving means, the ref raining the notification communication; 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 c o m m u n i c ~ 3 communicatively coupled, or a computer system having a tions device, until detection o f one or more events that distributed architecture. indicate that the party is no longer occupied with the 63. The system o f claim 54, further comprising: task and can perform another task associated Mth 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 first initiating means initiates the first notifi· 35 events comprises at least receipt o f second commtmication cation communication based upon the relationship of a from the party s personal communications device. mobile 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 o f a predefined time notification communication based upon the relationship period. of the mobile thing or another mobile thing to the 4 50. rThe system of claim 47, wherein the one or more location or another locatio location. n. events comprises at least arrival or departure of a mobile 64. A computer·base d notification system system,, comprising: thing at or from a location, respectively. means for receiving a notification communication with 51. The system o f claim 47, further comprising means for the personal communications device associated with refraining from sending notification communications to one 45 the party from the notification system; or more additional personal communications devices. means for communicating a response communication 52. The system o f claim 47, wherein the-initiating means from the party s personal communications device, indi • initiates the notification communication when a mobile eating 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. The system o f claim 47, wher ein the initiating means, 5 with the notification communication; and the receiving means, the refraining means are implemented means for caus ing the notification system to refrain from with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that sending any further notification communications to the are communicatively coupled, or a computer system having party s personal communications device, until d e t e ~ a distributed architecture. tion o f one or more events, indicating that the party is comprising: 54. A c omputer-based notification system, comprising: no longer occupied with the task and can perform means for storing contact data in memory pertaining to another task associated with another notification com· one or more party personal communications devices; devices; munication. means for initiating a first notification communication to 65. The system o f 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; 6 party associated with the personal communications device. means for receiving a response communication from the 66. The system of claim 64, wherein the response comw party s personal communications device; munication is generated by physicaliy detecting the presence means for changing the contact data based upon the o f the party associated with the personal communications response communication; device. means for refraining from sending notification commu· 65 67 67.. A c omputer·base d notification system 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; performed

Exhibit

Page

 

7

US 7,119,716 B2

100

99

mean for tmttatmg a notification commllllication to a

personal communications device associated with a party based upon the contact data; means for receiving a response communication from the party s personal communlcations device; means for changing the contact data based upon the response; and

79. The system of claim 75, wherein the response c o m ~ munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communications device. 80. The system of claim 75, wherein the response c o m ~ munication is generated by physically detecting detecting the presence of the party associated with the personal communications device.

means for modifying a manner in which future notifica81. A c o m p u t e r ~ b s e d notification system, comprising: tion communications are implemented, based upon the means for initiating a fir first st notification communication to 10 change in the contact data. a personal communications device associated with a 68. The system of claim 67, wherein the modi fyin g means means party; comprises a means for refraining from sending notification means for receiving a response communication from the communications to the part y s personal communicati communications ons party s personal cmmnunications device; device after receiving the response communication, until means for refraining from sendlng notification c o m m u ~ 15 detection of one or more events. nications to the party s persona personall communications 69. Tbe 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 cmrummication fr from om the party s personal mearu for initiating a second notification communication communications 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 commWiications to 82. The system of claim 81, further·comprising a means one or more additional personal communications devices. 25 for refraining from sending notification communications to 71. The system of claim 67, wherein the initiating means 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 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 with respec t to a the initiat ing means, the receiving means, and the modifying 30 location. means are implemented with a single computer system, a plurality of computers that are communicatively coupled, or 84. The system of claim 81, wherein the first initiating a computer system having a dlstributed architecture. means, the receiving means, the refraining means, and the second initiating means are implemented with a single 73. The system of claim 67, wherein the response c o m ~ computer system, a plurality of computers that are o m m u ~ munication is generated by a physical action taken by the party associated with the personal communicatioru device. 5 nicatively coupled, or a computer system having a d i s t r i ~ uted architectu architecture. re. 4. The system of claim 67, wherein the response c o m ~ munication is generated by physically detecting the presence 85. The system of claim 81 wherein the response com· of the party associated with the personal communications munication is generated by a physical action taken by the device. party associated with the personal communications device. 40 75. A c o m p u t e r ~ b s e d notification system, comprising: 86. The system of claim 82, wherein the response c o m ~ means fOr initiating a first notification communication to munication is generated by physically detecting the presence a personal communications device associated with a of the party associated with the personal communications party; device. means for receiving a response communication from the 87. A c o m p u t e r ~ b s e d notification system, comprising: 45 party s personal communications device; means for monitoring travel data associated with a mobile means for refraining from sendlng notification c o m m u ~ thing; nicatioru to the patty s personal communications means for initiating a first notification communication to device after receiving the response communication; a personal communications device associated with a mea ns for initiating a second notificati notification on communication 50 party based upon th e relationship of he mobile thing to to the party s personal communications device, one or a location; more other personal communications devices, or both, mearu 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 communications device. means for refraining from sending notification c o m m u ~ 76, The system of claim 75, further comprising a means 55 to the party s personal communications nications for refraining from sending notification communications 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 notification communication means initiates the first 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 location. more other personal communications devices, or both, based upon the upon the relationship of the mobile 78. The system of claim 75, wherein the first initiating thin thing g or a nother mobile thing to the location or another means, the receiving means, the refraining means, and the secOnd initiating means are implemented with a single location. computer system, a plurality of computers that are c o m m u ~ 65 88 The system o f claim 87, further comprising means for nicatively coupled, or a computer system having a d i s t r i ~ refraining from sending notification communicatioru to one uted architecture. or more additional personal communications devices. Exhibit

Page

 

8

US

7 119 716 B2

1 1

1 2

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 ffirst irst initiating means the receiving means the refraining means and the second initiating means are implewith a single comput er system a plurality of commentedthat puters are communicatively coupled or a computer system having a distributed architectu architecture. re.

91. he system of claim 87 wherein the response communication 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 physically detecting the presence of the party associated with the personal communications device.

Exhibit A 9 Page

 

f

* * * *

  xhibit

 

illllillllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll

US007479899B2

(12)

United States States Paten Patentt

(10)

Horstemeyer (54)

(45)

NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS AN AND D METHODS ENABLING A RESPONSE TO CAUSE CONNECTION BETWEEN A NOTIFIED PCD AND A DELIVERY OR PICKUP

Patent No.: Date of Patent:

(56) (56)

US 7,479,899 B2

Jan.20,2009

References Cited U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 3,568,161 A

3/1971 Knickel ..................... 340/994

REPRESENTATIVE (75)

Inventor:

(73)

Assignee: LegalView Assets Assets,, Limited, Tortola Tortola (VG)

(*)

Notice:

Appl. No.: 10/858,964

(22)

Filed:

(Continued) OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Prior Publication Data

(Continued)

Dec. 2, 2004

Primary xa m in er Tai T Nguyen (74) Attor Attorney ney Agent or Fir m-T hom as Horstemeyer Risley LLP

Related U.S. Application Data Continuation of application No. No. 10/706,591,-filed on Nov.l2, 2003, now Pat. No. 7,119,716. Provisional application N No. o. 60/498,819, filed filed on Aug. 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 appliG cation No. 60/473,742, filed on May 28, 2003, proviG sional application No. 60/473,738, filed on May 28, 2003.

(51)

Int.Ct.

23 (2006.01) ................. ...... 3 40/994; 340/992; 3401928; u.s. C l 340/502; 340/504; 340/506; 340/539.11; 7011201; 701/204; 705/8; 705/9; 705/10 Field of Classification Search ................. 340/994, GOSG

(58)

340/992,928,502,504,506, 539.11; 701/201,

(57)

Systems and methods are disclosed for automated notifica tion systems. A representative method, among others, others, can be summarized by the following steps: monitoring trave travell data in connection with a mobile thing that is destined to pickup pickup o orr deliver an item at a stop location; causing initiation of a notification communication to a personal communications device based upon the travel data; and during the notification communication, enabling a party associated with the personal communications device to select whether or not to commu nicate with a party having access to particulars of the pickup or delivery of items or services. A representative system, among others, comprises a computer or other automated sys tem that is programmed or designed to perform the foregoing steps. 22 Claims, 50 Drawing Sheets

41

so

Kayden, Kay den,

ABSTRACT

701/204; 705/8, 9, 10 See application file for complete search history.

a

3la k>nComiol Urltja.BC\ )

_ { B S ) Mo n a g o r

stopl.ccauoo

[)o.lumlir>allon

S)..,om

"'

Po

Exhibit B Page 120

 

4/1987

Moriok, et a ., "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.

(60)

(52)

0219859 A2

EP

Jun.2,2004

US 2004/0243430 AI AI

(63)

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this patent is extended or adjusted under 35 U.S.C. 54(b) by 867 days.

(21)

(65)

(Continued)

Scott A. Horstemeyer, Atlanta, GA (US)

' CommJoica Qno Pt>1oo(PCIJJ -

US 7,479,899 B2 Page 2 5,552,795 A

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 3,644,883 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

A A A

2/1972 Bannan et al. ................ 340/23 235/151.2 10/1974 French 5/1975 Cottin et al. ················ 340/994

A

340/23 911980 Henriot 10/1981 Fruchey et al. ................ 340/23

A

A A A

A A

A A

A A A A A A A A A 5,006,847 A 5,014,206 A 5,021,780 A 5,048,079 A 5,068,656 A

5,097,429 A 5,103,475 A 5,113,185 A 5,121,326 A 5,122,959 A 5,131,020 A 5,144,301 A 5,146,491 A 5,155,689 A 5,168,451 A

5,179,584 A

5,218,629 A 5,218,632 A 5,223,844 A 5,243,529 A 5,271,484 A 5,299,132 A 5,323,456 A 5,351,194 A 5,361,296 A 5,381,338 A 5,381,467 A 5,394,332 A 5,398,190 A 5,400,020 A 5,420,794 A 5,428,546 A

5,432,841 A 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 5,513,1l1 5,515,421 5,519,621

A A A

A A

A A

A A A

A

A A

5,526,401 A 5,539,810 A 5,544,225 A

5,546,444 A

l/1976

4/1982 9/1982 6/1985 4/1986 12/1987 12/1988 111989 2/1989 2/1989 3/1989 3/1989 8/1989 l/1990 91199

3/1991 411991 511991

6/1991 9/1991 11/1991 3/1992 4/1992 5/1992 611992

6/1992 7/1992 911992 9/1992 10/1992 12/1992 111993 6/1993 6/1993 6/1993 911993 12/1993 3/1994 611994

9/1994 1111994 111995 111995 211995 3/1995 311995 5/1995 6/1995 7/1995 8/1995 8/1995 8/1995 911995

10/1995 J/1996 111996 211996 2/1996 4/1996 4/1996 511996 5/1996

l\1acano

................... 235/150.2

Bishop ................... .... 340/5 340/539 39 Greer .......................... 340/23 Bamich et al. .......... 37917 MM Min cone et a . ......... 17917.1 TP 340/994 4 Boone et al. .............. .. 340/99 Takahashi et al ........... 364/436 364/436 Shinkawa et a . 250/251 51 Farley ................. ....... 250/2 Barbiaux et al. ........... 340/52 F Champion, III ct al. ..... 340/905 Segala ..... .................. . 379/112 379/112 Brubaker .................... 340/994 Davis .................... 340/825.44 364/424.02 Cearley et al. Benyacar et al. ············ 3791119 340/994 Rush e ta . 364/449 449 Scribner et al. ............. 364/ Fabiano et al. .... .... .... .. 340/994 Harrington et al ........... 379/112 Sutherland .... .... ..... .... . 340/989 Wood e ta . ................. 364/569 Shu en ························ 379/115 Ichikawa .................... 340/995 364/449 449 Moroto et al. .............. 364/ Nathanson e ta . .......... 364/436 379/59 Liebesney et at. ............. 379/59 Jackson et al. .............. 340/994 379/114 114 Silver et al. .............. ... 379/ 364/460 460 Wortham .................. .. 364/ Bolger ....................... 3641436 Tsumura ..................... 379/114 Dumond, Jr. et al. .......... 379/59 Cool ················· ········· 379/ 379/12 126 6 Mansell et al. .............. 342/357 Kashiwazaki ··············· 3641449 187129.1 Bahjat et al. 364/460 460 Wortham .................. .. 364/ 379/375 375 Oprea .................. ...... 379/ Ross et al. .................. 364/449 Reyes et al .................... 379/96 Wysocki et al. ............. 364/449 Rosinski et al . ............ . 379/12 379/121 1 Kuwahara et al. ........... 364/449 364/460 460 Wortham ................. ... 364/ Jones ························· 3401994 James ························ 364/436 Shah et al. ·················· 3641449 Rimer ......................... 379159 3641426.05 Newman Ross .......................... 340/994 364/514 Saltzstein et al. ........... 364/514 Kerrmer et al. ......... 36)1424,02 340/994 994 Lewiner et al. ............. 340/ Correel e fa l. .............. 340/994 364/443 443 Lewiner et al . ............. 364/ 340/994 994 Lewiner et al ............. 340/

················ 455/53.1 Buscher et a . ............. 379/114 Wortham .................... 364/460 Sikand et al ................. 379/67 364/460 Wortham ............ ........ 364/460 Vlcek eta .

6/1996 Roach, Jr. et al. ...... ...... . Kennedy, III et al. ......... 8/1996 Kennedy, Ill e t al. ......... 811996 Roach, Jr. et al.

711996

379/59 379/59

379/59 379/59

Exhibit B Page 121

 

5,559,871 A 5,570.100 A 5,577,101 A 5,579,376 A

5,587,715 A 5,594,650 A 5,594,787 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

A A A

5,699,275 5,712,908 5,715,307 5,719,771 5,724,243 5,724,584 5,729.597 5,731,074

A A

A

A A

A

A

A

5,694,459 A A

A A

A A A

5,734,981 A

5,736,940 A 5,739,774 5,742,672 5,751,245 5,760,742 5,771,282 5,771,455

A A A

A

A A

5,774,825 A 5,781,156 A 5,784,443 A 5,793,853 A 5,796,365 A 5,799,073 A 5,799,263 A 5,805,680 A 5,808,565 A

RE35,920 E

5,835,580 A 5,841,847 A 5,852,659 A 5,864,610 A 5,875,238 A 5,881,138 A 5,9l0,979 A 5,912,954 A 5,915,006 A 5,920,613 A 5,922,040 A 5,937,044 A 5,943,320 A 5,943,406 A 5.943,657 A 5,945,919 A 5,946,379 A 5,950,174 A 5,955,974 A 5,956,391 A 5,982,864 A 5,9&7,108 A 5,987,377 A 5,991,377 A 5,991 5,991,380 ,380 A 5,991,381 5,995,602 6,006,159 6,094,149

A A A A

9/1996 9/1996 10/1996 11/1996 1111996 12/1996 1/1997

342/357 Tayloe eta . Smith ......................... 379/115 364/446 Grube et al. 379158 Bohm Kennedy, III et al. ········· 379160

2/1997 4/1997 7/1997 7(1997 8/1997 9/1997 911997 10/1997 12/1997 12/1997 12/1997

Haagenstad et al ......... 364/436 Jones ......................... 34 1994 Ross .......................... 340/994 364/460 0 Wortham . ................. .. 364/46 Jones . ....................... 340/994 Jones .. ...................... 340/994 Ross ......................... 379158 Magliari et al. ............. 340/904 Westerlage et al. .. ....... 364/464 379/427 Backaus et al. Beasley et al. .......... 3641514 R Brinkman et al. ........... 379/119 Zazzera ...................... 379/265 Bu ck et al. .................. 364/443 Westerlage et al. ......... 364/446

Lewis ......................... 342/357 364/449.1 Shah eta . 111997 Ohshima et al. ············ 379/114

111998

2/1998 2/1998 3/1998 3/1998 311998 3/1998 3/1998 4/1998 411998 4/1998 5/1998 6/1998 6/1998 6/1998 6/1998

7/1998

711998 8/1998 8/1998 8/1998 8/1998

9/1998 9/1998 1011998 11/1998 11/1998 12/1998 111999 211999

.

.

Peters e ta . ················ 3951671 Bhusri ················•······• 3791115 Spaur eta . ................. 370/313 455/445 Kennedy, III et aJ, Burgener .................... 340/994 Olandesi ..................... 340/994 Burk .......................... 379/198 Janky et al. ................. 342/357 Branch et al. ............... 342/457 Friedes ....................... 379/121 455/456 Kennedy, III et al. Reynolds ................. 364/449.7 Krasner ...................... 342/357 Chapman et al . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379/119 Sbisa ·············•··········· 379/120 Lewis ......................... 342/357 Fleischer, III et al. ....... 379/113 Culbertson .................. 7011117 379/118 118 Penzias .. ................. ... 379/ Matta et al. ................. 340/994 Sorden et al. ··············· 3421457 Frazer ........................ 379/115 Graham et al. ............. 379/114 Welter, Jr. .•.....•........... 3791116 Ronen ........................ 379/127 Glitho et al. .. ............. 379/116

3/1999 Keams et al. ............... 379/114 6/1999 Goel e ta . . ................ 3791120 611999 Whited et al . ............... 379/115 6/1999 Jagadish et al. ............. 379/127 7/1999 Alcott et al. ................ 379/114 7/1999 Prabhakara.n . ............. 7011117 8/1999 Kim ........................... 379/121 8/1999 We ik e t al. .................. 370/259 8/1999 Leta et al. ................... 379/120 8/1999 Freestone et al. ........... 705/400 340/825.491 8/1999 Trask . 8/1999 Bhusri ........................ 379/115 9/1999 Brendzel ..................... 705/34 9/1999 Togawa ······················ 340/99 340/994 4 9/1999 Melen et al. ................ 3791114 1111999 Jagadish et al. ............. 379/115 11/1999 Jagadish et al. ............. 3791114 11/1999 Westerlage et al. ......... 7011204 11/1999 Malik ......................... 379/114 379/115 115 11/1999 Bnmo et al. ................ 379/ 379/115 Bouanaka. et al . ........... 379/115 1111999 1ll1999 Johnson et al. ............. 379/116 12/1999 Schmier et al. ............. 7011200 7/2000 Wilson ....................... 340/904

US 7,479,899 B2 Page 3 6,097,317 6,111,538 6,124,810 6,134,501 6,137,425 6,144,301

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8/2000 Lewiner et al. ..... ..... ... 340/994 812000 S chuc hman et al .......... 342/357 912 Segal et al. ................. 340/994 l0/2000 Oumi ............. ............ 70 701/20 1/209 9 10/2000 Oster et al. ..... ..... ..... .. 340/994 340/994 111 111200 2000 0 Frieden .... ..... ..... ..... 340/572.8 112001 Leibold ...................... 7011202 212001 Lamb ......................... 340/994 2/2001 Davidson ..... ..... .... ..... . 340/994 412 1 Hahn ......................... 340/904 5/2001 5/20 01 Gaspard, II ............. .... 701/20 701/209 9 6/2001 Hanson et al. ... 701/202 6/2001 Deca ux et al. .............. 7011204 8/2001 Jones ......................... 7011201 111 1112001 2001 Jones .... .... 340/994 1112 1112001 001 Jones .. ..... ..... .... ..... .... 340/99 340/994 4 3/2002 Irvin ..... ................. .... 445/4 445/456 56 3/2002 Jones et al .................. 455/456 3/2002 Jones .......... ............... 70 701/21 1/213 3 4/2002 Schmier et al ............. 701/200 6/2002 Richton ................. ..... 4 455/45 55/456 6 6/2002 Jones ........ .... ..... .... .... 701/ 701/201 201 7/2002 Jones ............ ................ 701 701/1 /1 11/2002 11/200 2 Jones .... ................. .... 34 340/9 0/994 94 12/2002 Jones 112003 Jones 9/2003 L aird ...... ..... ..... .... ..... 70112 7011204 04 1/2004 1/20 04 3/2004 2/2002 6/2002 6/2002 7/2002 5/2003 5/200 3 5/2003 5/200 3 8/2003 10/2003 10/2003 10/20 03 10/2003 10/200 3 10/2003 10/2003

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OTHER PUBLICATIONS Brynielsson, 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/l-I2/2, 7/1-7/3. "Vehicle Location and Fleet Management Systems", lEE Col loquium, Computing and Control Division, Jun. 8 1993. The 3rd International Conference on Vehicle Navigation Informa tion Syste ms (VNIS) Norway, Sep. 2-4 2-4,, 1992, pp. 312-315. Preiss, George; Jenson, Lillian; "The Satref and GPS Information Projects", 1992 I E E E - 3 r d International Confeience on Vehci1e Navigation Information Systems, pp. 648-655. "Vehicle Navigation Navigation Information Systems Conference Proceedings"(P-253), Society of Automotive Engineeis, Inc., Oct. 1991, pp. 789-796, " 1992 1992 Compendium ofTechni cal Papers", Institute ofT ansportation Engineers-INRAD: A Deminostration of Two-Way Roadway to Vehicle Conununication for use in Traffic Operations, Annual Meet ing, Washington, D.C. pp. 214-218, "Paving the Way for GPS n Vehicle Tracking", Showcase World, Dec. 1992. "AdvancedVehicle "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Corrununication Systems for Bus Transit", Federal Transit Administration, Sep. 1991, 1991, 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 everyone's pocket1.1-a pilot test using hand-portable GSM terminals, IEEE lEE Vehicle Navigation Information systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 49-52. Burgener, E.C., et al., ''A Personal Transit Arrival Time Receiver", IEEE-l EE Vehicle Navigati on Informat ion Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 54-55. Peng, Zhong-Ren, ''A Methodology fur Design for a GIS-Based Automatic Transit Traveler Information System", Computer, Envi ronment and Urban Systems, vol. 21, No. 5, pp. 359-372, 1997. 1997. Lessard, Robert, "The Use of Computer for Urban Transit Opera tions", IEEE- lEE Vehicle Navigation Information systems Con ference, Ottawa, Vl\TIS 1993, pp. 586-590. Sommerville, Fraser, eta ., "Reliable Information n Everyone's Pocket-a Pilot Test", IEEE, vol. 1927, Mar. 1994, pp. 425-428. "Promise-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Infonnation Service-Specification of Promise Services, Ver. 7", Telematics Application ProgrammeA2, Transport, Jul. 1, 1996, "Promise-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service--Gene ric Promise System Architecture, Ver. Ver. 2", Telematics Telematics Application Progr amme A2, Transport, Sep. 10, 1996. Promise-Personal Mobile Traveller and Traffic Information Service--Sll1n1ll.3.l')' of Promise Public Relation Activities, Vei. 1, Telema ics Application PrograrnmeA2, Transport, Feb. 12, 1999. "Prornise"-A Personal Mobil e Traveller and Traffic Information Service--Abstract, The Institution of Electrical Engineers, 1997. Sommerville, Fraser, et aL, "The Promise o f Increased Patronage", The Institution ofElectrical Engineers, 1993, pp. 3/1-3/4. "Automatic Transit Location System", Washington State Department of Transportation, Final Report, Feb. 1996. "Advanced Traveler Aid Systems for Public Transportation", Federal Transit Administration, Sep. 1994. "AdvancedVehicle "Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Communication Systems fur 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 I989, pp. 219-223. "\994 Vehicl Vehiclee Navigation Information Systems Conference Pro Proo o ceedlngs", Yokohama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, 1994, pp. 807-810.

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wo 98/40837

US 7,479,899 B2 Page4 "Vehicle Navigation Informati Information on Systems Conference Proceedings-P-253, Part 2", Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc., Oct. 1991. Vehicle Navigation Information Systems--Co Syste ms--Confere nference nce Record of Papers presented at the 3'u Vehicle Navigation Information Systems Conference 1992., Reso HoteL Osio Plaza., pp. 49-52. Nelson, J. Richard, "Experiences Gained in Implementing an Eco nomical Universal Motorist System , IEEE-lEE Vehicle Naviga tion Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 67-71. "The Cassiope/Eurobus Cassiope/EurobusApproach", Approach", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation Information Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 79-81. Kihl, Mary, "Advanced Vehicle Location System for Paratransit in Iowa", IEEE-lEE Vehicl Vehiclee Navigation Infonnation Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 381-384. Gault, Helen, eta ., "Automatic Vehicle Location and Control at OC ~ I Transpo", I Vehicle Navigation Infonnation Infonna tion System Systemss Conference, Ottawa, VNlS 1993, pp. 596-600. Vehicle Vehic le navigation navigation Information Information Syst em-C onfe renc e Record Record of Papers presented at the First Vehicle Navigation and Infonnation Systems Conference (VNIS '89), Sep. 11-13, 1999, pp. 602-605. Heti, Gabriel, "Travelguide: Ontario's Route Guidance System Demonstration", IEEE-lEE Vehicle Navigation Information Systems Systems Conference,, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. A13-A18. Conference Jeffery, D.J., et al., "Mva nce d Traveller Infonnation Infonnation Systems in the UK: Experience from the Pleiades and Romanse Projects", I EEE- l EE Vehicle Navigation Infonnation Infonnatio n Systems Conference, Ottawa, VNIS 1993, pp. 309-313.

Hubner, Paul, "Advance Public Transportation Information in Munich", International Conference on Public Transport Electronic Systems, Conference Publication No. 42, Jun. 1996. Thompson, S.M., etal., "Exploiting Telecommunications to Delivery Real Time Transport Information", Road Transport Information and Control, Apr. 21·23, 1998, pp. 59-63, Conference Publication No. 454 IEE 1998. Kaminitzer, David, et at., 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://www.aviatiomlow. 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'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 of Cavia Corp.'s Open Systems Manager, Con· nectivitySection",Articlein PC Week, Jun. 7, 1988, vol. 5, No. 23, p. Cll.

Stoll, Marilyn, "Systems help Airlines Manage Gate Schedules; Con· nectivitySupplement", PC Week, Jul. 25, 1988, vol. 5, No. 30, p. C4. Reddy, Shyamala., "Travelling LAN: United Airlines Networks Its Terminals",Article in The Local Area Network Magazine, Jan. 1990, vol. 5, No. I, p. 108. Fisher, Fishe r, Sharon, "Networke "Ne tworkedAirpo dAirport rt Systems help Travelers find their

Sweeney, Lawrence, E., et al., "Travinfo: A Progress Report", 1994 Vehicle Navigation Infonna Infonnation tion Systems Conference Proceed Proceed ings'', Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 315-320. Shimamura, Yta, et al., "Comb ined Position Detection System for PedestrianrTrain Mode", 1994 Vehicle Navigation Infonnation Systems Conference Proceedings", Yokaharna, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 603-606. Zavoli, Walt, "Customer Location Services", 1994 Vehicle Naviga tion Information Systems Conferenc Conferencee Proceedings", Yokaharna Yokaharna,, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 613-617. Tanaka, Yoshimi, et al., "Automatic Traffic Information Provision System Utilizing Facsimile and Telephone (Now Operating in Osaka), 1994 Vehicle Navigation lnfonnatio lnfon nation n Systems Conference Proceedings", Yokahama, Japan, Aug. 31-Sep. 2, 1994, pp. 627-63 627-632. 2. McDonald, Mike, et a ., "Romanse (Road Management System for Europe) Project", 1994 Vehicle Navigation Information Systems Systems Conference Confere nce 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., Ed.garS., "Making 911 even better'', Telephony, Telephony, Dec. 14, 1987, pp. 60·63. Bruzek, Fmnk J., "Class Calling Service-A Consumer Service Per· spective", Globecom '85 IEEE Global Telecommunications Confer ence, Dec. 2-5, 1985, vol. 1 of3, pp. 11.4.1-11.4.4. Powell, R, et a ., "Real Time Passenger Infonnation System for the Romanse Project", Colloouin Digest-lEE, Boston, Sep. 1993, pp. 9/1-9/3. Huber, Paul, "Public Transport Infonnation Systems in Munich", Intelligent Transport System World Congress '95-Second Wold Congress on Intelligent Transport Transpo rt Systems, Yokohama, Japan., Nov. 9-11, 1995, pp. 2362-2366. Ronez, Nicholas, et al, "GIS-Based Transit Information Bolsters Travel Options", GIS World, vaL 6, part 7, Jun. 1995, pp. 62-64. Catling, Ian, et al., "Tabasco-lmproving Transport Systems in Europe", Pacific Rim TransTech Conference, Jul. 30·Aug. 2, 1995, 995 Vehicle Navigation Information Systems Conference Proceed ings, Washington State Convention and Trade Center, Seattle, Wash Wash ington, USA, PP· 503-507. Dailey, D.J., "Demonstration of an Advance Public Transportation

Flanagan, Mike, eta ., ''Amelia Earhart-Mystery Still Clouds Soar· ingAchievements", Chicago Tribune, Jul. 5, 1987, Final Edition, p. 5, Tempo Woman. "Official Airline Guides", Airports®, Nov. 20, 1990, Around Air ports, val. 7, No.4?, p. 485. "Automation System Galus 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 Avionics,, p. 56, Dec. 15, 1975. "Forecast Realized for ATC System", Aviation Space Technology, Mar. 17, 1975, Avionics, p. 168. Henderson, Danna, eta ., "lonworks: America We >1Aulomates New Phoenix Terminal Fully Integrated System to Handle Customer-Ser vice Demands (Ameri ca West 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://mlt.edu/afs/net.mitfedul proje;;;tfattic/usa-today/tech/3 proje;;;tfatti c/usa-today/tech/37, 7, Jun. 12, 2003. "What's New in passenger Handling Equipment", Air Transport World, val. 24, p. 62, Sep. 1987.

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Exhibit B Page 123

 

Space Technol Space Technol

US 7,479,899 B2 Page 5 Herskovitz, Don, ''GPS Insurance Antijanuning the System; Brief Article", Journal ofElectronic Defense, De c . , 2000, No. 12, val. 23, p.4l. Hambly, Richar d M. M.,, et a ., "Aircraf t Traffic 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 Ser vices on Seas, in Air and on Land", SpaceToxhnology, val. 10, No.4, pp. 231-237, 1990. Jenney, L.L. et al., "Man as Manager of Automated Resources in an Advanced Air Traffic System", l Aircra ft. vol. 12. No. 12, Dec. 1975. "Routing Scheduling System improvements from RTSI; Routing Technology Software, Inc.; Product A.nnouncement", Modem Brew ery Age, vol. 43, No.3, p. l l S, Jan. 20, 1992. Yanacek, Frank, "Hitching to the stars; satellites for shipment rack ing", Research In fonnation Transportation Journals, Combined, No. 6, vol. 29, p 16. Stoll, Marilyn, "For on-the-road firms, firms, hand-held terminals are piv otaL Connectivity", Research Infonnation Transportation Journals, Combined, No. 34, vol. 5, p. C l l "IBM and Hunt to Market. NewT uck Tracker; International Business Machines", J.B. Hunt Transport Services; BriefArticle, No. 210, vol. 101, 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 Insta11 Printers in Cockpits", Aviation

Donaghue, J.A., "Choice of Data Link Systems Expands as New Generation Hits the Market", AirTransportWorld, vol. 20, p. 58, Apr. 1983. Klass, Philip J., "Digital Network Could hnprove Aircraft Links to Operations, ATC", Aviation Week and Space Technology, Interna tional Air Transpor t Section , vol. 131, No. 21, p. 121, Nov. 1989. Board Cites ATC

"Vicorp Interactive Systems", Aviation Daily, Aviation Suppliers Section, vol. 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 Informaton or Date Information Provided. Maxwell, Robert L., "Automation Possibilities in Air Traffic Con trol", pp. 561-563, No Publication Information or Date Infonnation Available. "History of GPS", 3 pages, No Publication Information or Date Information Available. "Road Transport R esearch-Intelligent Vehicle High Systems-R eview of Field Trials", prepared by An OECD Scientific Expert Group, pp. 1-101, Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development-No Date InfonnationAvailable. InfonnationAvailable. Ratcliff, Robert, et a1., Transportation Resources Information Pro cessing System(TRJPS), pp. 109-113, No Publication Infonnation or Date Information Available. Ba1ke, Kevin, et al., Collection and Dissemination o f Real-Time Travel Time and Incident Infonnation with In-Vehicle Communica

Week and Space Technology, Avionics, Jul. 21, 1980, p. 56.

tion Technologies, pp. 77-82, No Publication Information or Date Information Available.

Transport World, vol. 23, p. 53, Feb. 1986.

* cited by examiner

Lefer, Henry, "Computers on a boon to E&M, but at a price", Air

Exhibit B

Page 124

 

in Spokane Near Miss, Article in Aviation Week 1977. p . . i9.

Space lechnology, Safety Section, Mar. 28,

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etermining more mobile with one or one moreorcorresponding correspon dingthings sto p locations. based upon the device location data and the travel data associated with the mobile thin thing g

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INTERNET SERVICE SERVICE PROVIDER File

Edit

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YOU HAVE RECEIVED NEW MAIL FROM

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SUBJECT Arriving in 2 Minules {,:49

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1:47:58 PM EST

Security By Secure Arrival

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Subj: YXZ CHARITY ARRIVING N 2 MINUTES Date: 1/28/1995 1:47:56 PM Eastern Standard Standard Ti me From: [email protected] To: [email protected] ID

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VERIFICAUON WAS

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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 verification to cancel the arrival or to reschedule.

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