Abstract: A system, method, and computer-readable medium are disclosed for separating the purchase of digital assets from their fulfillment and activation. Digital assets purchase information comprising digital assets identifier information and activation key data, and system identifier information comprising system identifier data, is received. The purchase information and the system identifier information are processed to generate digital assets activation request data, which is then processed by the provider of the digital assets to generate digital assets activation data. Associated digital assets data is provided with the digital assets activation data and then processed with the purchase transaction data to generate digital assets entitlement data.

Abstract: The browsing activity of a first user is motivated by some intent. The first user requests retrieval of a particular document while browsing. A document processing and presentation machine associates the document with a retrieval path taken by the first user. By using the retrieval path data of the document, the document processing and presentation machine infers an intent that likely motivated the first user. When a second user makes a request similar to a request within the retrieval path, the machine presents the second user with the document and some of the retrieval path data, thus providing the second user with a shortcut that leads the second user directly to the document. Thus, the second user may be able to satisfy his intent with significantly less browsing activity compared to the first user.

Abstract: A computer-based online system for managing a plurality of registries of baby care product selections, where each of the plurality of registries is uniquely associated with a respective one of a plurality of users, and where each baby care product selection corresponds to a baby care product selected at the online system or one of a plurality of retailers, includes a database to electronically store data records corresponding to the plurality of registries, and an application server communicatively coupled to the database.

Abstract: The participant tracking system of the present invention includes a plurality of participant information records stored in a database, a remote user interface connected to a centralized processor and digital data storage device through a network wherein the database is stored on the digital data storage device. The participant tracking system of the present invention may further include a security feature that prevents unauthorized access to the database and the participant information records. The participant information record includes the participant's personal information, a digitized sample of one of the participant's unique biometric characteristics, and an updatable participation history. The participant tracking system of the present invention uses a biometric characteristic to verify the identity of a participant and ensures that the participant is not exceeding the regulated quantity of goods or frequency or duration of services within a defined time period.

Abstract: This is directed to providing offline purchasing of media items using an electronic device. One or more media items that are not part of a user's media library can be stored on an electronic device. When a user later wishes to play back one of the media items, but the device cannot connect to a communications network to provide payment information for purchasing the media items, the electronic device can use pre-paid credits that were purchased and stored by the device when a communications network was available to complete the purchase. By using pre-paid credits, the media store can be assured that the user has sufficient funds for the media item purchase.

Abstract: A system, method, and computer-readable medium are disclosed for separating the installation of an operating system from the fulfillment, installation, and entitlement of other digital assets. Information associated with the purchase of a system and digital assets to be processed by the system is received, including the system's unique system identifier. The unique system identifier is associated with the digital assets to generate digital assets entitlement data. A personalization agent installed on the system determines the system's unique system identifier and automatically downloads the purchased digital assets, which comprises an operating system (OS), and their associated digital assets entitlement data. Once downloaded, the personalization agent uses the digital assets entitlement data to first install the OS according to any restrictions imposed by the OS manufacturer, and then the remaining digital assets, on the system, which is then entitled to process the installed digital assets.

Abstract: A computer network where artistically created digital content is distributed. An artist transmits the artistically created digital content from an artist workstation computer to a digital content recycling system computer via a computer network. The artistically created digital content is offered for sale by the artist at an initial sales price via the digital content recycling system computer. First consumer computers and secondary consumer computers are also connected to the digital content recycling system computer via the computer network. A first consumer purchases the artistically created digital content via the first consumer computer at the initial selling price. Operating under permission of the artist, the first consumer can then later sell the artistically created digital content via the digital content recycling system computer to a subsequent consumer at a reduced recycling price.

Abstract: A method and system for managing route resources. After receiving a request for a route from a user, user-specified constraints, route supplier-specified constraints, and weights assigned to the constraints, a dynamic model of available routes is queried to generate proposed routes based on the constraints and weights. The model is updated according to the proposed routes. Current bids on related routes are retrieved. Prices of the proposed routes are determined and presented to the user. The prices are based on the updated model and the current bids on related routes. If no price is acceptable, the user modifies the constraints and a new set of proposed routes is generated. A bid from the user to purchase a selected proposed route is received.

Abstract: An energy use optimization tool includes logic to receive inventory information relating to a plurality of customer devices and store the inventory information. The logic calculates an estimated energy cost associated with the plurality of customer devices based on the received inventory information. The logic also calculates energy savings or environmental impact information based on energy savings or environmental impact information associated with available service offerings compared to the estimated energy cost. The calculated energy savings or environmental impact information is output to a user.

Abstract: The invention is generally directed to a method of managing the activation and use of a specific merchandise, facilitated between at least a retailer that sells the specific merchandise, a customer that purchases the specific merchandise, and a central processor that authorizes activation and use of the specific merchandise. The method includes the steps of receiving an indicia that uniquely identifies the specific merchandise, and an activation code associated with the merchandise that will allow the merchandise to properly function; storing the indicia of the specific merchandise and the activation code; receiving a confirmation of a valid purchase transaction of the specific merchandise, the confirmation of valid sale comprising the indicia of the specific merchandise; determining the activation code associated with the specific merchandise; and providing the activation code associated with the specific merchandise to the customer.

Abstract: A product announcement and merchandizing device and system is provided and includes a system and method for matching or merging a first product with one or more distinct products or services and displaying that merged message through use of a hang tag or an article identifier arrangement. The hang tag or article identifier has first and second sections with one or more individually operable and distinct fields. The system can actuate a message or other response in connection with receiving a particular signal or as part of an advertising campaign.

Abstract: A comprehensive platform for merchandising intellectual property (IP) and conducting IP transactions is disclosed. A standardized data collection method enables IP assets to be characterized, rated and valuated in a consistent manner. Project management, workflow and data security functionality enable consistent, efficient and secure interactions between the IP Marketplace participants throughout the IP transaction process. Business rules, workflows, valuation models and rating methods may be user defined or based upon marketplace, industry or technology standards.

Abstract: A content distribution system which assures reliability of content is provided. Permitted-user information corresponding to a user who is permitted to use content to be distributed is associated with the content. In the case where user specific information which specifies a user and the permitted-user information do not have a predetermined relation, a user terminal transmits the user specific information and the permitted-user information to a server. The server generates user-related information in which the received user specific information is set as a distribution destination and the permitted-user information is set as a distributor, generates new permitted-user information so as to have the predetermined relation with the user specific information, and provides the new permitted-user information to the user terminal. The user terminal which obtains the new permitted-user information changes the permitted-user information to the new permitted-user information.

Abstract: A method, system and process of purchasing and licensing musical work online by: providing a host website, allowing a member of the site to post music in the most convenient member, allowing a prospective artist to significantly alter the music under a tiered, layered system, and offering up a desired piece of work for either purchasing or licensing. The host website functions as a facilitating record label/mixer/production facility that provided every interested party with necessary information, agreements and the management of said licensing fees.

Abstract: Systems and methods for mediation of online trading services are provided. Supplemental content related to a content title may be listed in a market or store for content. A client device sends a mediated communication to a trading server; the mediated communication may include mediation data and a request concerning the transfer of supplemental content. A user account associated with the client device is identified and the supplemental content may then be assigned to the user account. A report regarding activity associated with the assignment of the supplemental content may be generated in accordance with mediation data.

Abstract: A method and system for limiting spending in a multimedia content distribution network involves receiving spending limits from an Internet-protocol television portal, a web portal, or a mobile portal. The spending limits may be provided by a network user and may be usable to limit access to multimedia programs. The spending limits may be applied using a unified storefront application, which provides access to multimedia content via an Internet-protocol television portal, a web portal, and a mobile portal.

Abstract: A provider server receives an order from a customer by way of a workstation for a customer selected configuration change of computing resources of an end user machine, the provider server having a predetermined time period and negotiates configuration change price for billing said customer for the purchase of said ordered customer selected configuration change, said negotiated configuration change price for billing said customer for the purchase of said ordered customer selected configuration change.

Abstract: An internet portal for connecting prospective renters and property owners/managers provides features for further managing an on-going relationship between renters, property owners/managers and other parties such as mortagees. An agreement may be entered into via the portal that arranges rent on a property to be paid in a pass-through arrangement directly to the mortgagee, avoiding potential foreclosures of which a renter might be otherwise unaware. A rating system is provided by which performance of renters and the performance of the property owners/managers may be evaluated during the relationship and used to inform others as historical and comparative data.

Abstract: A distributed method for licensing a software product is disclosed. Access to a software product by a user is requested at a client-side. An identity of the user and a local setting of the client-side are determined. At a server-side, licensing information specific to the determined local setting is selected from a licensing database. The selected licensing information is transmitted from the server-side to the client-side and then output at the client-side to the user. At the client-side, confirmation of a license agreement for the software product based on the output licensing information is requested.

Abstract: A system is provided for managing patent licenses. The system comprises at least one memory including a first memory location for storing a signal representing a plurality of patent licenses available for procurement. The system also comprises at least one network interface for receiving a signal from a user designating at least one of the licenses for procurement. The system furthermore comprises at least one processor for processing a procurement transaction by which the user procures the at least one designated license. The at least one memory further comprises a second memory location for storing a signal representing information pertinent to the procurement transaction including information regarding an identity of the user and information regarding the procured license.

Abstract: A system and method for publishing video, processing, storing and purchasing the video over the Internet. The system includes a seller user interface where a seller can register and upload the video over the Internet, and still retain the copyright ownership of the video. Once uploaded video is processed and encoded with copyright notices, it is then available for searches. The system stores the video and user profiles in the database. The system includes a buyer user interface where a registered buyer can search and purchase video content over the Internet. The video can be purchased by many buyers for usage or it can be purchased for exclusive rights by one buyer, after which time the video is deleted from the system and the buyer gets the video copyright ownership. Once a transaction is made, the buyer pays for the video to the seller and listing fees are deducted in the transaction.

Abstract: An approach is provided for monitoring utility usage and generating notifications. A platform collects utility data from a utility meter of a subscriber and determines whether the utility data satisfies a usage threshold. The platform generates a notification based on the determination and presents the notification.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a method, system and computer program product for providing a specific attribute of a particular product. The method may comprise receiving a sequence of characters on a mobile device; determining a list of potential products, each of the list of potential products having a corresponding attribute comprising a matching portion that matches the sequence of characters; determining a location of the mobile device; filtering the list of potential products to a list of relevant products based upon at least one of the location of the mobile device, a consumer defined preference setting, a purchase history of the consumer, and a product ranking but not restricted to the same; ordering the listed products based upon at least one of the above listed criteria's; displaying a list of relevant products on the mobile device; receiving a selection of the particular product from the list of relevant products; and providing the specific attribute of the particular product.

Abstract: A method to authorize, facilitate, and mediate transfer of DRM protected files from one portable multimedia player (1050) to another portable multimedia player (1080), while ensuring appropriate royalty payments are made to appropriate Copyright Owners A source i2i device includes a file transfer counting mechanism for monitoring and disabling the transfer of digital files between portable digital media devices, and further includes hardware for providing a secure Internet interface (1020) capable of connecting the source device a Credit Vendor server (1040) via a network-connected computer (1070) A Credit Vendor (1000) pays a fee to a DRM File Source Company (1010) to obtain virtual credits for transferring DRM files The user connects the source i2i device to the Credit Vendor server (1040) via a global computer network and downloads virtual credits, which authorize and enable the transfer of content between the source i2i device and a target i2i device The Credit Vendor (1000) then pays appropriate royaltie

Abstract: In an example embodiment, a method is provided of locating a bundle of items. In this method, a query for a first item is received, and a search for the first item is conducted based on the query to locate an attribute of the first item. An identification is then made from the attribute that the first item is associated with the bundle of items. Another search for a second item that is associated with the bundle is conducted based on the attribute. A listing is then generated of the first item with the second item grouped as a bundle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the dissemination of digital media. In one aspect of the present invention, a method for disseminating content is provided, the method comprising: one or more rights holders providing one or more items of content to a database; the rights holders directing parsing of the content into content elements; the rights holders associating pricing conditions and dissemination conditions with the content; one or more editors assembling the content elements into one or more compilations; and one or more consumers purchasing one or more of the compilations.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards, in one embodiment, a system, process or method for controlling, operating, displaying, generating, rendering or otherwise managing the IP content within a retail structural facility. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention comprises a retail structural facility having a computer controlled system adapted for consumer browsing, retrieval, access, consumption, control of, and interaction with, all forms of available intellectual property content within one or more screening chambers within the retail structural facility. The computer controlled system may include at least one computer system, or may include a plurality of computer systems in electronic communication with other on-site computer systems, or in electronic communication with off-site computer systems, mobile devices, and the Internet.

Abstract: A device includes a memory for storing digital media, a transfer module, and a processor. The media includes first data that associates the media with the device, second data authorizing the device to play back the media, and third data authorizing the device to transfer a copy of the media. A transfer includes transfer data identifying the copy uniquely relative to the device. The processor implements instructions to receive a request to transfer a copy of the media to a peer device, create a copy of the media that includes the first data and the transfer data, and direct the transfer module to transfer the copy to the peer device and send a transaction record including the first data and the transfer data to a server.

Abstract: In a business operation service system and a method applied in an environment of a video phone service platform, a middleware of software/hardware of a Fixed-Mobile Convergency (FMC) handheld communication device is provided for users to enter a telephone number to enter a specific interactive screen by dialing a telephone number and/or a string of numbers and/or a string of words to connect a telephone to complete a connection. Users can use a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) of the FMC handheld communication device to browse the specific interactive screen containing business information, a commercial service and/or a product trading provided by the system and the method of the invention to purchase a product, inquire business information and/or obtain a commercial service. Since the business operation service system and its method only provide a specific licensed service, a service charge can be collected from users through the dialing registration process.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automated high-throughput processing seed requests or orders includes an autonomous single seed counter and packager which operates by pre-programmed criteria. Optional features can include a thresher, a spiral separator, and a label applicator. A conveyance path, controlled automatically, can move the seed to appropriate and desired stations during the processing while maintaining segregation from subsequent seed being processed. Validation of the seed request matching the sample requested occurs prior to processing and information about the seed to process or having been processed can be derived and stored for further use.

Abstract: A content server enables one user to purchase licensed content for another user and, in response to the purchase, automatically delivers the content to the other user's device. The content server further configures the other user's device to receive and utilize the licensed content, thus enabling the other user to consume the content.

Abstract: The present invention provides for devices and methods for vending regulated products, particularly controlled substances, including those containing pseudoephedrine. The present invention allows for the identification of consumers through reliable log-in-procedures, allows the consumer to select items, validates whether the purchase request complies with regulations, to facilitate the delivery of the requested product to a consumer. Other embodiments include a vending machine that is placed into a retail environment in which software enforces validation of the purchasers' identities, limits the amount of pseudoephedrine for each purchaser within the regulations of local, state and federal agencies.

Abstract: A method and system for programming a universal remote control (URC) to operate with a remote-controlled device is disclosed. In response to an indication of a purchase transaction for a remote-controlled device, a network identity and a device identifier may be sent to client-premises equipment (CPE). The CPE may then program the URC to control the remote-controlled device.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a transaction server facilitates a purchase transaction for goods or services between users at two mobile phones. The Purchaser initiates a request for a purchase transaction to a server, and is provided with a unique code (“purchasing nonce”) that is uniquely associated with the request. The user of the first mobile phone provides the purchasing nonce to the Seller, who enters that value into the selling mobile phone. The selling mobile phone initiates a request to join the transaction as identified by the purchasing nonce. After confirmation of the Purchaser that the Seller can join the transaction, the Seller can itemize the goods for sale, which are electronically presented to the Purchaser for approval. After all items are selected, the Purchaser approves the transaction, and the transaction server can then transfers funds. An electronic receipt is provided to the Purchaser's mobile phone for confirmation.

Abstract: Digital content, such as movies, television productions, and the like are processed and delivered based upon digital masters. The masters may be produced as the initial content, or any other content may be digitized to create the masters. An HD full aperture version is used to create a reduced set of masters that can be used to fill orders having a wide range of features and options. The HD full aperture version is combined with pan and scanned instructions parsed from original pan and scan files to permit automatic creation of the basic masters used to fill the orders, such as a letter box version, a 16:9 FF version, and a 4:3 FF version. The derived masters may be HD versions or SD versions. Upon receipt of orders, the proper version is selected and assembled with any other components that may be ordered by the customer. Ingestion of the masters may be delayed until order reception, and transcoding of the original master may also be delayed until order reception.

Abstract: Brokering locations for the completion of tasks. Location information for a plurality of sellers is maintained. Buyers define tasks to be performed at particular task locations at particular times. A brokering system notifies the sellers of the defined tasks, and selects sellers near the task locations to complete the tasks. The sellers complete the tasks to produce output such as a physical or digital deliverable. Upon verifying completion of the task, the brokering system arranges the transfer of compensation between the buyers and the sellers. In some embodiments, the brokering system selects the sellers via an auction to enable the performance of various buyer-defined tasks that are location-specific. Further, location-based applications may be built on top of the brokering system.

Abstract: Consumers who are interested in various rental properties can create a list of those properties, and notifications of that interest can be sent to the property managers associated with those properties. A system could be implemented to send multiple notifications (e.g., to each manager of a property on the list) with a single request by the consumer. Such notifications can be used to provide property managers with information used to screen applicants, and/or can allow property managers to seek to access additional information about the consumer. Whether any additional information has been accessed can be tracked to verify that access is only provided in compliance with relevant regulation. This type of functionality can be integrated with a system that allows regulatory investigations to be allocated to, and performed by, compliance representatives using mobile devices, and can also be integrated with functionality that allows consumers to present themselves as pre-qualified applicants.

Abstract: In various exemplary embodiments, a system and associated method to provide rule-based media subscription bundles is provided. A selection of a subscription plan is received from a subscriber. One or more content categories and rules associated with the selected subscription plan are determined. The rules comprise a designation of a number of selections of media to be made from the one or more content categories. A listing of media associated with the one or more content categories is provided to the subscriber, and a selection of media from the listing of media is received in response. The media subscription bundle comprising the selected media is then generated.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided herewith for exchanging and rating works of art. A value for each of a plurality of portfolios of art owned by a plurality of participants is determined Ownership interests in the plurality of portfolios of art are pooled in a legal ownership entity. For each participant, an initial participant value is determined based on the determined value of each portfolio of art owned by the respective participant. A respective quantity of shares of the legal ownership entity for each respective participant is determined based on the participant value determined for the participant. An indicia of the respective quantity of shares is transmitted to each respective participant. Participants may buy and sell usage and ownership interests in the portfolios of art. Participants may also redeem their shares for cash or other value.

Abstract: A recording and reproducing apparatus for content detects that the same-already purchased content is present when a user newly purchases a content, and determines, based on information in which a user who previously purchases a content sets whether to open the purchase, whether a message to the effect that the content is purchased in duplicate is displayed to the user who newly purchases the content.

Abstract: A method of determining a multi-year renewal price for an expiring domain name includes setting a first selling price for the expiring domain name and determining that a first period of time has elapsed. The method also includes setting a second selling price for the expiring domain name. The second selling price is less than the first selling price. The method further includes determining the multi-year renewal price. A price for a first year is equal to the second selling price and a price for a second year is greater than the second selling price and less than or equal to the first selling price.

Abstract: Disclosed are a system, method and article of manufacture for are disclosed. A first relationship is created between a first node comprising a first commodity and a second node comprising a second commodity. The second commodity is of a greater or equal value to the first commodity. The first relationship comprises an obligation of the first node to provide the first commodity to the second node in the event of a trade. A second relationship is created between the second node and a third node comprising a third commodity. The third commodity is of a greater or equal value to the second commodity. The second relationship comprises an obligation of the first node to provide the first commodity to the second node in the event of the trade. The trade is initiated by creating a third relationship between the third node and the first node.