Abstract: A system to facilitate royalty tracking is provided. The system includes at least one tag to identify a portion of a creative work. A distribution component tracks the portion of the creative work and a crediting component reports usage of the creative work when the portion is detected in a larger body of work.

Abstract: A computer system for creating a design for an image product includes servers that can identify a blog page that includes an image, text, or designs, automatically incorporate at least one of the image, text, or the design object in the blog page into the design of an image product, and allow a user to review the design of the image product. The servers communicate with a printing finishing facility that makes a physical image product according to the design of the image product.

Abstract: A data processing system that facilitates the buying and selling of specialty chemicals. A uniform standard and specification is established for each specialty chemical that is being offered for sale via the system. The uniform standard and specification is advantageously supplier independent so that a prospective purchaser can directly compare offerings from different suppliers. A prospective purchaser defines a requirement for a specialty chemical that it wishes to purchase. The requirement, which defines acceptable ranges for the characteristics that make up the standard, is input into the data processing system. The requirement is compared, in the data processing system, with analyses of batches of the specialty chemical that are available for purchase through the data processing system in an attempt to find a batch that satisfies the requirement. An indicium of a batch satisfying the requirement is output, from the data processing system, to the prospective purchaser.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for facilitating the selection, purchasing and ordering glass products, which is informative to guide a novice user in selecting a glass product, even where the glass is comprised of glass panels of more than one manufacturer, the present invention providing an apparatus with a processor which is controlled by software to facilitate a selection process which integrates the comparison of glass products and their properties, as well as, including particular properties of particular components of a glass product, the apparatus can work with a user input device, such as a keyboard or mouse, and is programmed to display graphics associated with selections and potential selections for glass products. The system and method providing selection menus for display on a display device and an animation graphic associated with a selection presented to the user.

Abstract: The method enables a user to see how a selected product or how a plurality of selected products look in an immersive three-dimensional scene that resembles an actual or real property to be constructed or updated, or the relevant portions thereof. Since the images of the scene are displayed immersively, the user can view the scene from any vantage point and at any angle just as if the user were walking around the actual property. The user can thus obtain a realistic impression of how the new or changed property will look and the approximate cost of the improvement without first constructing a new structure or implementing changes to an existing structure. This enables the user to view many different possible options in order to decide which option is most desired. The user can feel confident that corresponding changes made to the real property be pleasing to the user.

Abstract: A system and method for compiling selected information from a plurality of individuals is disclosed. The system and method of this invention may include a first portion comprising a plurality of criteria identifiers, such as a birth date, birth year, age, zodiac sign, name, profession, nationality, country of citizenship, favorite sport, hobby or interest, or other criteria. Each criteria identifier may display to a user the criteria for selecting the individual to input said selected information such as an individual's signature or other information. The system and method may also include a second portion comprising one or more storage elements, each storage element being associated with at least one of the criteria identifiers for storing and inputting the selected information. Once information is input into a particular storage element, that specific criteria identifier (e.g. birth date) associated with the storage element may be eliminated from being used to select an individual.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a system for providing a customer biopolymer to a customer. The sequence of a customer biopolymer is transferred to a production control system of a biopolymer service provider, synthesized on a production machine of the service provider and delivered to the customer, wherein no human action is necessary to initiate or control the synthesis process.

Abstract: A system and an apparatus for an employer to provide safety prescription eyewear to employees is described. The steps of the preferred embodiment comprise providing a kiosk at or near a place of employment, allowing employees to access the kiosk virtually to try on various models of frames and to submit prescription information, and causing the prescription safety eyewear to be manufactured and shipped. Employee benefits are handled at the kiosk as are all options available relating to, for examples, the selected frame, the prescription lenses, and the method of shipping. Payments in excess of the benefit are accounted for by payment at the kiosk or by payroll deduction.

Abstract: A method of selling absorbent articles wherein the absorbent articles are co-packaged sets of absorbent articles bearing similar and/or related graphics.

Abstract: A system and method for the management of services offered to subscribers by service providers are provided. A service management component manages service plan options that are provided by one or more service providers and that are made available to subscribers. The service management component processes requests from one or more service provider components to dynamically update service plan information. Such requests may include requests to add or delete service plans, add or delete features to a service plan, add or delete rule sets associated with a service plan, and the like. In this embodiment, the service management component maintains various data stores associated with available service plans and with current subscriber information that facilitate a mapping of updated service plan options to subscribers. Accordingly, the service management component manages a framework that allows the management of the mapping information.

Abstract: A method for creating an image product design includes storing a plurality of page layouts for an image product, receiving a selection of one or more images for a page of an image product design by a computer system, automatically selecting a first page layout in the plurality of page layouts according to the sizes of the one or more images, and producing the image product design comprising the first page layout that incorporates the one or more images.

Abstract: A system and method for obtaining photographic products and/or services comprises bundling image capture and printing technologies into products and/or services that are paid for by a consumer with monthly or yearly subscription fees. The system and method involves selecting a camera and selecting a photographic products/service plan which designates photographic products and/or services which are to be associated with the selected camera. The system and method gives the consumer the option of selecting a specific camera from a menu of cameras, and a specific photographic product/service plan which is to be associated with the selected camera from a product/service menu. As a further option, the consumer can customize his/her product/service plan in accordance with his/her preference. The plan can provide for products and/or services for images captured and/or film exposed by the camera for a predetermined amount of time at a predetermined fee.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for identifying replacement parts. Replacement parts may be identified although they do not correlate to obsolete parts on a one-to-one basis. Both replaced parts and their substitutes may be tracked by, for example, associating an identifier with the part. Each identifier may be a string of characters that uniquely refers to the part. The identifier of the replaced part may be linked to an array of identifiers, each corresponding to a replacement part. A user may enter the identifier of the replaced part and retrieve data corresponding to each of the substitutes. During the lifecycle of the product, replacement parts may be replaced. Data may be retrieved showing a hierarchy describing a history of multiple replacements. The user need not know that a part has been replaced to retrieve re-designed or remanufactured part information.

Abstract: An online system for generating reports related to consumer product online orders is provided. The system comprises at least one presentation application operable to capture user online session data including a presentation application identifier, session identifier, user data, user click stream data, and product configurations selected by the user. A session report message incorporating the user online session data is generated. The system further comprises a web server in communication with the presentation application and operable to receive the session report message. A report processor is operable to receive the session report message, and storing the user online session data in a report database.

Abstract: A product customization system and method are provided in which a consumer can insert user content, such as images or text, onto a product, such as a skateboard, and then view the customized product before purchasing the customized product.

Abstract: Techniques described herein overcome many of the issues that have previously made the printing of a single copy of a book from a digital version unattractive and infeasible. According to one embodiment of the invention, an automated mechanism such as a computer program automatically determines whether the spine thickness of a to-be-printed copy of a digital version of a book will exceed the specified maximum spine thickness that a specified binding or other finishing device can handle. In response to determining that the spine thickness will exceed the specified maximum spine thickness, the automated mechanism automatically splits the digital version of the book into two or more volumes such that, for each volume, the spine thickness of the printed version of that volume will be no greater than the specified maximum spine thickness that the specified binding or other finishing device can handle.

Abstract: In a method and system for mobile publication, a captured image is accessed. A bar code is decoded from the captured image. An item associated with the bar code is identified. An item listing of the item is generated in accordance with the identifying of the item. The item listing is utilized for posting with a listing manager. One or more item listings for the item are identified. At least one item listing of the one or more item listings is provided for presentation in accordance with the searching of the one or more item listings.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for custom hair coloring reformulation. The method includes accepting a user login associated with previously entered user characteristics. Accepting user input of new user characteristics including natural hair color, current hair coloring, hair treatments, hair coloring characteristics and hair treatment characteristics. The method further includes identifying available hair coloring, accepting user input of desired hair coloring and identifying a hair colorant suitable to create the desired hair coloring in view of the user characteristics. An order is then generated for the hair colorant.

Abstract: Methods and systems for designing and producing a three-dimensional object selection of a base three-dimensional object from a customer device. A base three-dimensional model corresponding to the object is displayed on the customer device, and one or more custom modifications are received. A modified three-dimensional model corresponding to the modified object is prepared and displayed. Once confirmation to produce the modified object is received, data corresponding to the modified three-dimensional model is transmitted to a manufacturing device for production of the object, using the data to do so, such that the object corresponds directly to the modified three-dimensional model.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for custom hair coloring formulation. The method includes accepting user input of user characteristics including natural hair color, current hair coloring, hair treatments, hair coloring characteristics and hair treatment characteristics. The method further includes accepting user input of desired hair coloring and identifying a hair colorant suitable to create the desired hair coloring in view of the user characteristics. An order is then generated for the hair colorant.

Abstract: A process for creating a melded visual image to accompany a delivery of digital content. The melded image including at least a digital image associated with the digital content and a first placement image. The first placement image selected for delivery with the digital image in accordance with the execution of one or more rules concerning the digital content or the end user receiving the digital content. The melded image may contain constituent parts that have been altered such as changing the aspect ratio or transparency so that the digital image and the placement image can be displayed on a display screen associated with at least one class of player device that may play the digital content. The placement image may be part of an advertising campaign.

Abstract: An automated method for operating a bimodal itinerary creation and management system. The method includes specifying by a user of his travel preferences and telling the system to plan and calculate an itinerary, calculating by the system of an itinerary meeting said user's travel preferences and presenting said itinerary to said user. The method also includes either accepting this as the final itinerary by the user or further specifying and fine tuning his preferences and finally recalculating the itinerary, until a sufficiently satisfactory itinerary is created.

Abstract: A business object model, which reflects data that is used during a given business transaction, is utilized to generate interfaces. This business object model facilitates commercial transactions by providing consistent interfaces that are suitable for use across industries, across businesses, and across different departments within a business during a business transaction. In some operations, software creates, updates, or otherwise processes information related to a number range, a number range profile, a payment card payment authorisation, and/or a product template template business object.

Abstract: A mobile application runs on a mobile device to allow jewels, jewelry, and their arrangements to be found or virtually made so as to facilitate inspecting, querying, or ordering. Users navigate through various user interface screens to discover jewels and jewelry in inventory of a jewelry merchant. For those jewels and jewelry of interest, they can be collected on a virtual jewel pad. Using the jewel pad, users may arrange jewels and jewelry and order their creation. The mobile application acts as a point of sale for the purchase of jewels, jewelry, or arrangements.

Abstract: A system and method for modeling and implementation of a computer program to provide an individual user or customer, the ability to exercise said user's own individual unique hand generated artistic talents, in each of three planes, in order to create said user's own unique desired three dimensional candle from an infinite number of variations and possibilities, and then order said unique desire for manufacture and delivery through said computer program. Said computer implemented system and method may be implemented on a single stand alone computer, or a computer or computer terminal connected to a private or public network. Said public network may be the World Wide Web based internet.

Abstract: An automated method for operating a bimodal itinerary creation and management system. The method includes specifying by a user of his travel preferences and telling the system to plan and calculate an itinerary, calculating by the system of an itinerary meeting said user's travel preferences and presenting said itinerary to said user. The method also includes either accepting this as the final itinerary by the user or further specifying and fine tuning his preferences and finally recalculating the itinerary, until a sufficiently satisfactory itinerary is created.

Abstract: A method of generating a stitch file for an embroidery design selected by a user where the embroidery design includes a plurality of elements. According to one embodiment, the method includes acts of rendering an image of the selected embroidery design at a display visible to the user, receiving an order placed electronically by the user for the embroidery design; and generating, following the act of receiving, a stitch file corresponding to the embroidery design, wherein the embroidery design includes both text elements and design elements.

Abstract: A method and computer software program for publishing images at an accessible website and for ordering goods and/or services to be provided by a fulfillment provider. A high resolution digital image is forwarded from a user to a fulfillment provider that stores the high resolution digital image and associates a unique ID with the high resolution image. The unique ID identifies the storage location of where the high resolution image is stored and the internet address of the fulfillment provider. The user receives the unique ID that is associated with the high resolution image. The user then forwards to an accessible website a low resolution image copy of the high resolution image and the unique ID. The website publishes the low resolution image on the accessible website along with an action button that is associated with the unique ID.

Abstract: Enhanced access devices, e.g. credit cards and/or check cards, are issued with enhanced security features and processes that allow a customer to control circumstances under which their account can be accessed. If a fraudster tries to access the account without knowledge of the consumer set controls, the system can take remedial action with reduced instances of false positives. An account is typically established for an account holder through a central entity, e.g. an issuer. At least one access device is established for the account, wherein at least one user is associated with the access devices for one or more transactions. Use of the access devices is defined by a set of rules defined by the central entity and a set of rules that are controllable by the customer, typically comprising any of the account holder and the user of the account. The customer can input, control, and/or update at least one parameter associated with the customer-controllable rules.

Abstract: A web portal for users to join and create their own profile to bring many people together who connect as friends or business connections. In this environment, the user can create designs for a virtual alter-ego that can then be shown on a virtual runway. Others, such as friends, or potential business contacts, will be able to view this page, including the designs and fashion show. Anyone who views the page will have the ability to model the designs on virtual versions of themselves. This provides a means to shop and try on clothing without ever leaving the computer screen. Once an item is found that is desired by the viewer, the item can be created, ordered and delivered through the web portal.

Abstract: A software management database contains data structures supporting computer software provisioning for a range of CTO/BTO variations, language variations, region variations, and operating system variations.

Abstract: A system and method are described for digitally processing a stationery order and for selecting an optimum fulfillment site for fulfilling the stationery order. For example, a method according to one embodiment of the invention comprises: providing an end user with a set of selectable stationery templates, the stationery personalization engine receiving an indication that an end user has selected a particular one of the stationery templates; collecting personalization data from the user, the personalization data including personalized messages, one or more stationery formatting options selected by the user, and names and addresses of stationery recipients; applying the personalization data to the stationery templates to generate a personalized stationery design; identifying a set of eligible fulfillment sites for printing the stationery design based on a first set of variables; and identifying an optimal fulfillment site from the set of eligible fulfillment sites based on a second set of variables.

Abstract: Systems and methods for organizational purchasing are disclosed herein. More specifically, in certain embodiments a campaign corresponding to a product may be created and potential buyers informed of the campaign. These potential buyers may then themselves purchase the product in association with the campaign. In this manner not only are potential buyers informed that a product is being offered to one or more other buyers but the purchases of the individual buyers in association with the campaign may be aggregated to, for example, achieve a lower purchasing cost for each buyer relative to what the buyer would have paid if he had purchased only the quantity of product he desired.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for card customization including a centralized issuer hub providing a single point of website integration for applicants in different countries or affiliations, the system comprising a centralized issuer hub comprising a server that coordinates data exchange among a plurality of country—or affiliate—specific websites, a card customization services for processing applicant requests, and an image administrator for customizing applicant submitted images. In operation, a local issuer country website provides a browser-based user interface for an applicant. Card customization services includes a website that recognizes an issuer country or affiliation of the applicant and launches a dedicated country—or affiliate—specific website for the applicant based upon on a country of origin or affiliation of the local issuer country website.

Abstract: A method and system for the online design, real-time visual rendering, ordering, and manufacturing of various architectural millwork products such as wainscoting panels, cabinet doors, fireplace mantels, and columns. A user logs on to a system server over the Internet using a personal computer and common browser, chooses one of many configurable designs, inputs dimensional and critical build criteria, receives a real-time image displayed on his computer screen from such input, receives further real-time images with each user selectable change to such inputs, so as to render immediate visual images of the as-designed product on the user's computer screen. After the user submits his final order through an online-cart and check out process, the order is further reviewed by a backend system and thereafter processed for generating CNC machine code and other related manufacturing instructions to further automate the manufacturing process.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described herein relating to managing an on-demand manufacturing supply chain personalization process. In some embodiments, the management system and method is described in order to manufacturing customized products according to image and customization data with images applied to parts using a post mold image application process. In other embodiments, customized products are defined by electronic orders that specify product manufacturing data including imagery to be applied to the products. In other embodiments, manufacturing methods are described in which an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or an original design manufacturer (ODM) leverages use of an on demand customizing entity in the manufacturing supply chain. In other embodiments, customized products are described in which imagery spans across multiple components of the products. In other embodiments, re-usable tracking devices and scheduling processes based on filtered options are additionally described.

Abstract: This disclosure provides various embodiments of systems, methods, and software for managing structured and unstructured data within electronic communications. In one implementation, software identifies an electronic communication associated with a user in an enterprise application; creates a link between an unstructured data element associated with the electronic communication and a structured data element associated with the enterprise application, where the link created at least partially based on one or more attributes of the electronic communication and an active process of the enterprise application; and stores the link in a link repository.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for generating bundle uniform resource locators (URL). A URL is generated that contains a parameter with a value corresponding to a product available in the electronic commerce system. At least one parameter with a value corresponding to configurable features of the product is also encoded in the URL. The URL parameters are validated to determine whether the product and configurable features are compatible.

Abstract: Computer-implemented systems and methods for automatically creating a second customized product design incorporating information from a first customized product design. Information from a first custom product design is automatically combined with additional automatically selected content to create a new custom product to be promoted to the customer. When possible, information known about the customer, such as the customer's geographic location or business interests, is used to select the additional content for incorporation into the design.

Abstract: A system for depicting information relating to mortgage lending activities. A database stores information including demographic, economic, and mortgage lending information used in mortgage lending activities. Information in the database and information entered by a user is used to depict customized geographic and demographic information relating to a mortgage activity.

Abstract: A system, method, and computer program for determining a quantity mismatch report so that a plurality of configured quantities for a plurality of product variants can be compared. The method includes transforming a plurality of logical expressions. The method also includes detecting a quantity mismatch report from said transformed logical expressions. The method further includes determining at least one product variant from the quantity mismatch report.

Abstract: Personalizing a gift instrument by customizing the presentation and redemption for a gift instrument recipient. A gift instrument purchaser or other data source associates customization information such as redemption recommendations, restrictions, or other content with the gift instrument based on the gift instrument recipient. The customization information is presented to the gift instrument recipient upon redemption of the gift instrument. In an embodiment, information about the redemption by the gift instrument recipient is provided to the gift instrument purchaser.

Abstract: A receiving section receives a supply request for product from a terminal set up at a shop or a terminal used by a client. A first determination processing section determines whether a product in stock can be reserved for an order. A first reserve processing section reserves the product in stock for the order when the first determination processing section determines that the product can be reserved. A second determination processing section determines whether a semifinished product necessary for manufacturing a final product can be reserved when the first determination processing section determines that the product reserve is inadequate. A second reserve processing section reserves the semifinished product for the order when the second determination processing section determines that the semifinished product can be reserved.

Abstract: A system and method for obtaining photographic products and/or services comprises bundling image capture and printing technologies into products and/or services that are paid for by a consumer with monthly or yearly subscription fees. The system and method involves selecting a camera and selecting a photographic products/service plan which designates photographic products and/or services which are to be associated with the selected camera. The system and method gives the consumer the option of selecting a specific camera from a menu of cameras, and a specific photographic product/service plan which is to be associated with the selected camera from a product/service menu. As a further option, the consumer can customize his/her product/service plan in accordance with his/her preference. The plan can provide for products and/or services for images captured and/or film exposed by the camera for a predetermined amount of time at a predetermined fee.

Abstract: One form of the present invention contemplates a unique system for creating a customized bank card by a consumer/user based on instructions from a remote terminal. Other forms of the present invention contemplate unique apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, software, methods, and combinations of these for creating customized bank cards.

Abstract: A computer based online AutoCAD generation system is a questionnaire based system with dropdown menus for selection of options. The online system is secured with two levels of user authentication to gain access to the drawing system. Backend processing is used for approving the user registration. As the user selects the drop down menus the product parameters are populated based on the user selection. Once the product is selected the user submits for drawing and within a matter of seconds the drawing is shown online with zero client view using Autodesk Freewheel Project with its open source project. The user is given an option for downloading pdf files as well. This system can be used for any manufacturing with few modifications like questions and drawing templates appropriate for a specific product or class of products. In the described embodiment the system is designed for overhead steel rolling doors manufacturing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a retailing system that provides a series of consumer products, customizable prime business communication products and a selection of ready to eat convenience food products. The retail system is provided at a fixed retail location such as a kiosk or permanent installation and may include a series of advertising panels displaying one or more products that is offered by the retail system. The retail system further includes one or more transaction points enabling a user to obtain the consumer goods, business communication products and ready to eat convenience foods.

Abstract: The invention is directed to facilitating the planning and ordering of a merchandising unit and associated products. A merchandising unit planning screen is presented that displays a representation of a merchandising unit having holders for holding and displaying the products. A product menu is provided for each holder to allow selection of a product from a set of products for each respective holder. Available choices in the product menu of at least one holder are constraining to a subset of the set of products based on predetermined criteria. For each holder for which a product has been selected, a product quantity is determined based on a capacity of the respective holder. An order is generated based on the selected products.

Abstract: A personalized goods assembly transaction system comprise a server including a first section as a consumer database; the consumer database having three sub-sections, which are a consumer data unit, a consumer goods set unit and a consumer connection unit; at least one consumer unit connected to the server through a consumer interface; wherein the consumer data unit of the consumer database serves to record the data of a consumer; the consumer goods set unit of the consumer database serves to record the goods set by the consumer; the goods set includes a list of at least one set of goods which is inputted by the consumer. The system further comprises a seller database in the memory having three sub-sections, which are a seller data unit, a seller goods menu and a seller setting unit; at least one seller unit; the seller unit being connected to the server through a seller interface.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method effectuated over an online ordering system for customized golf bags, comprising: prompting a consumer with one or more options for one or more components of the golf bag that are customizable through an online website; receiving selections made by the consumer for the one or more options for the one or more components through the online website; packaging the selected one or more components of the golf bag as a kit; and distributing the consumer to the consumer for final assembly of the golf bag. In one embodiment, a final assembly of the golf bag by the consumer is substantially completed using manual and tool-less techniques. The options for the one or more components comprises at least one of: a color of a golf bag body, a color of a cuff, a color of a collar, a color of a top portion.