text:
Ordering and downloading resources from computerized repositories
The invention concerns a system for managing resources, which can take the form of (a) computer-compatible information, such as data files and programs, and (b) non-computer-compatible information, such as data contained on microfiche, and (c) physical objects. The resources are located at geographically diverse sites. The invention contains a descriptive profile for each resource, and allows any user to search all profiles, and to search the profiles according to "fields" (a database term), such as by location of the resources, or by category of the resources. The user can order delivery of a selected resource, and the system causes delivery of the resource to be executed, irrespective of the form (eg, physical object) of the resource. The invention allows a provider of a new resource to limit access to the resource, by identifying users who are authorized to obtain access to the resource. Non-authorized users cannot obtain access to the profiles of these resources.
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This Application is related to:
Application Ser. No. 08/217,065,(Assignee's Docket No. 6002) entitled, "Automated Resource Management System," filed concurrently herewith by Siefert et al., and assigned to the Assignee hereof.
Application Ser. No. 08/217,066,(Assignee's Docket No. 6003) entitled, "Future Boolean Searching of Multiple Repositories of Resources," filed concurrently herewith by Siefert et al., and assigned to the Assignee hereof.
Application Ser. No. 08/217,067,(Assignee's Docket No. 6004) entitled, "Security Aspects of Computer Resource Repositories," filed concurrently herewith by Siefert et al., and assigned to the Assignee hereof.
Application Ser. No. 08/217,422,(Assignee's Docket No. 6006) entitled, "Launching Computer Program upon Download of Data Created by Program," filed concurrently herewith by Siefert et al., and assigned to the Assignee hereof now U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,043
Application Ser. No. 08/217,063,(Assignee's Docket No. 6007) entitled, "Automatic Updating of Computer Software," filed concurrently herewith by Siefert et al., and assigned to the Assignee hereof.
Application Ser. No. 08/218,024,(Assignee's Docket No. 6008) entitled, "Multiple Repositories of Computer Resources, Transparent to User," filed concurrently herewith by Siefert et al., and assigned to the Assignee hereof.
Application Ser. No. 08/217,476,(Assignee's Docket No. 6048) entitled, "Computer System for Management of Resources," filed concurrently herewith by Siefert et al., and assigned to the Assignee hereof.Microfiche Appendix
A microfiche appendix, containing 3 microfiche and 207 total frames is filed herewith.
The invention concerns management of RESOURCEs, which take the form of (a) downloadable computer data and programs and (b) physical objects, which are located at multiple REPOSITORIEs, at different sites. The RESOURCEs appear to a user, at any given site, as though the RESOURCEs were actually present at the user's site.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A database is somewhat analogous to a card catalog of a library. The card catalog cross-indexes books in several ways.
For example, an "author" card exists. This card is located in the catalog at the alphabetical position of the author's surname.
In addition, a "title" card exists, located in the alphabetical position of the book's title. Also, a "subject" card generally exists, which describes the subject of the book, and which is located in the alphabetical position of the subject, such as "pressed flower collecting," for example. Of course, other cards can exist for a given book (for example, books having multiple authors generally have an author card for each).
In database terms, these cards represent "fields" within the database. For example, in a library, to find all of the books written by Ernest Hemingway, one looks up "Hemingway" in the card catalog. All of the library's books written by any Hemingway are identified by respective author cards. In a computer database, a similar search could be done, upon the "author" field.
Similar searches can be done on the title fields, as well as on the subject fields.
Computer databases, in general, have more fields than does the card catalog. For example, if the card catalog were contained within a computer database, there would probably exist a "date" field. To search using the "date" field, one specifies a date, or range of dates, and the database responds by listing all books having a copyright which complies with the specified date, or range.
Presently existing databases have limitations. For example, many databases require that a user undergo significant training in order to learn how to use the data base. Some databases use arcane commands which the user must memorize.
Some databases contain only that information which is owned by the database owner. Returning to the library analogy, if a public library were to computerize its card catalog, by entering all of the information contained within the card catalog into the database program, the database program would, of course, only contain the card catalog information. A user could not, for example, gain access to the card catalog of a second library, in order to locate a book not owned by the first library. The user must go to the second library.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
An object of the invention is to provide a system for storing information in a manner in which retrieval is simple.
Another object of the invention is to provide a system for storing information, in which entering information, as well as retrieving the information, is self-explanatory, and requires no resort to external instructions.
Another object of the invention is to provide a system for storing information, which can communicate with other systems which store information, and make available all of the information stored by all systems.
Another object of the invention is to provide a system which allows a user to search all information contained, in multiple databases, according to key words.
Another object of the invention is to provide a system which allows a user to establish a standing search, which searches, by key words, new information, at specified intervals in the future.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention discloses a system for managing resources, comprised of multiple servers and one or more PCs coupled to the servers. The servers are grouped into local servers and regional servers, wherein each of the local servers stores resources, and each of the regional servers stores profiles of the resources. The profiles contain descriptive information about the resources stored on the local servers. The local and regional servers are linked together so that profiles and resources can electronically transferred therebetween. A PC coupled to server can view profiles stored in the regional servers, and then electronically order delivery of any resource described in a profile viewed by the PC.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A illustrates the concept of storing RESOURCEs within a SERVER, and the association of a PROFILE with each RESOURCE.
FIG. 1B illustrates how RESOURCEs can be divided, according to two different criteria. That is, RESOURCEs can be classified as either containing information or not. RESOURCEs can also be classified as being downloadable or not.
FIG. 1C illustrates how a client of a SERVER can gain access to RESOURCEs contained within the client's SERVER, as well as RESOURCEs contained within other SERVERs.
FIG. 1D illustrates how a SERVER can be viewed as a RESOURCE.
FIG. 1E illustrates storage of PROFILES within REGIONAL SERVERs and storage of RESOURCEs within LOCAL SERVERs.
FIGS. 1-4 illustrate screens which the invention causes to be displayed on a user's PC, during a log-on process. Most of the icons shown are specific to the user's computer, and relate to software owned by the user. Those contained within the box labeled "Continuous Learning System" are related to programs used by the invention.
FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate screens at Level 1, which provide options for the user to select.
FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate screens displayed, at Level 2, in response to selection of the "Locate and View" option of FIGS. 5 and 6.
FIGS. 9-11 illustrate how a user undertakes a Boolean key-word search.
FIGS. 12-14 illustrate screens displayed when a user downloads a RESOURCE located during a search.
FIG. 15 illustrates display of the downloaded RESOURCE, by means of launching of a program which generated the RESOURCE.
FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate modification of the search described in FIGS. 9-11.
FIGS. 18-24 illustrate locating RESOURCEs based on the category in which the RESOURCEs are classified.
FIGS. 25-28 illustrate locating RESOURCEs based on the media upon which the RESOURCEs are stored.
FIGS. 29-32 illustrate locating RESOURCEs based on the REPOSITORIEs in which the RESOURCEs are stored.
FIG. 33 illustrates retrieval of the RESOURCE identified in FIG. 32.
FIGS. 34-37 illustrate other SYSTEMs to which the invention allows a user to gain access.
FIGS. 38 and 39 illustrate returning to Level 1.
FIGS. 40-54 illustrate creation of a PROFILE associated with a RESOURCE.
FIGS. 55-59 illustrate establishing of an INTEREST, which is an order to search new PROFILEs at specified times in the future.
FIGS. 60 and 61 illustrate the passage of time, during which the INTEREST was searched.
FIG. 62 illustrates the results of the INTEREST search.
FIG. 63 illustrate return to Level 1.
FIG. 64 illustrates a warning given when the user attempts to exit, when downloaded files are present, but not yet stored.
FIG. 65 illustrates layout of a typical screen displayed by a Graphical User Interface, GUI. The particular icons, which represent programs and information stored on the computer, will, of course, differ from one computer to another.
FIGS. 66-76 illustrate how an ADMINISTRATOR can change membership of teams, and thereby control the TEAMs' access to RESOURCEs.
FIGS. 77 and 78 illustrate identification, on a PROFILE, of TEAMS which may gain access to the RESOURCEs corresponding to the PROFILE.
FIG. 79 illustrates sample search results given to a TEAM member. The member is allowed access to all 21 RESOURCEs listed.
FIG. 80 describes following Figures.
FIGS. 81-83 illustrate a search undertaken by a user who does not have access to all 21 RESOURCEs shown in FIG. 79. FIG. 83 shows the RESOURCEs to which this person has access, and the list is different from that of FIG. 79.
FIGS. 84-96 illustrate a flow chart which describes the logic flow of the program contained in the microfiche appendix.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Overview SERVER Holds RESOURCEs
FIG. 1A illustrates a SERVER, which is a computer, or equivalent, which acts as a REPOSITORY, by holding a collection of RESOURCEs, for the benefit of microcomputers, labeled PC's. The PC's are the clients of the SERVER.
At present, for ease of explanation, the RESOURCEs can be viewed as computer files. However, as will be seen shortly, the RESOURCEs actually include a vastly larger, and more diverse, collection of objects than mere computer files. RESOURCEs include (a) data, (b) information, and (c) knowledge, both as these terms are generally defined, and also as defined by computer scientists. This data, information, and knowledge can take the form of computer-downloadable data, or other forms, such as printed matter. Each RESOURCE has an associated PROFILE, which contains descriptive information about the RESOURCE. FIG. 48 illustrates an exemplary PROFILE. The user of a PC uses the PROFILEs to locates RESOURCEs of interest by searching through the PROFILEs.
For example, each PROFILE contains a descriptive title. If a user is a manufacturer of golf equipment, and is developing a new golf ball having improved aerodynamic dimples, the user may search the RESOURCEs by looking for phrases such as
"golf ball" or
"aerodynamic" in combination with "golf ball"
within the PROFILEs. (This searching is standard Boolean keyword searching.) The invention will locate the PROFILEs, and thus the RESOURCEs, containing titles which match the search criteria.Location of PROFILEs
FIG. 1A, as well as FIG. 1B through 1D, indicate, for ease of explanation, that the PROFILEs are stored in the same SERVER as the RESOURCEs. However, the preferred method of storage is shown in FIG. 1E. Two types of SERVER exist, namely, LOCAL SERVERs and REGIONAL SERVERs. The PROFILEs are stored in the REGIONAL SERVERs. The RESOURCEs are stored in the LOCAL SERVERs.
REGIONAL SERVERs, as the name implies, serve a region, and hold the PROFILEs for RESOURCEs associated with multiple LOCAL SERVERs located within the region. Both types of SERVER (LOCAL and REGIONAL) have ADMINISTRATORs, as that term is explained later. (Of course, the same person can act as ADMINISTRATOR for more than one SERVER, and for both LOCAL and REGIONAL SERVERs.)RESOURCEs Not Limited to Computer-Type Data
The RESOURCEs are not limited to computer-type data, or files. FIG. 1B provides an example. That Figure shows four different types of RESOURCEs, namely, a computer FILE (or data), a BOOK, a reel of MOVIE FILM, and a PHYSICAL OBJECT. The PHYSICAL OBJECT can take the form of any physical object, such as a computer disc drive, or a diesel-electric railroad locomotive. Of course, these four RESOURCEs are exemplary only; numerous different types of RESOURCEs can exist.
These RESOURCEs can be divided into two pairs of classes, based on two different criteria, as indicated by the two dashed loops. One class pair is based on the fact that the BOOK, MOVIE FILM, and FILE all contain information, although stored on different media (paper, celluloid, and magnetic or optical media, respectively). As information, the RESOURCEs can be transmitted over a data link, such as a telephone communication channel, provided they are first translated into the proper format, such as digitized data. The PHYSICAL OBJECT, in general, does not contain information.
The second class pair is based on the fact that the BOOK, MOVIE FILM, and PHYSICAL OBJECT are all tangible material objects, while the FILE (when stored within the mass storage of the SERVER) is not. As material objects, the objects themselves cannot be transmitted in the same way as the information which they contain. The objects require physical transportation for a user to obtain them.All RESOURCEs, In Certain Respects, Are Treated Identically
The invention, in certain respects, treats all RESOURCEs identically, irrespective of their classification as data or material object. For example, every RESOURCE, irrespective of its classification, is associated with a PROFILE. All PROFILEs, without regard to classification, are stored, processed, and made available to the user of a client-PC, without regard to classification.
Several examples are the following:
The user can obtain a complete list of all PROFILEs, arranged alphabetically by title. The PROFILEs, in general, will cover RESOURCEs in both classes.
The user can obtain a complete list of PROFILEs having titles which contain only certain combination of words, by calling for a "boolean key-word search." The search is performed without regard to classification (unless classification is deliberately made part of the search, as by requesting a search be done only of RESOURCEs held in the form of video tape).
The user can obtain a list of all PROFILEs within a specified category.
Categories are discussed below. Each PROFILE, when created, is assigned a category. (If the creator of the PROFILE does not find a suitable, pre-existing category, then the creator can establish a new category, which is added to the system.) The categories are different from the "classifications" described above. FIG. 19 illustrates exemplary categories.Security Aspects
This discussion has presumed that the user has access to all PROFILEs and all RESOURCEs. However, in general, a user will not have such broad access, but only access to those PROFILEs and RESOURCEs for which the user has authorization. When a user performs a search, only the PROFILEs to which the user has access are displayed.
As explained later, the access is controlled by the owner of the RESOURCE. When the owner deposits a RESOURCE into a REPOSITORY, the owner can, of desired, restrict access to the RESOURCE, by designating certain classes of users who are allowed to see the RESOURCE. (The access restriction is accomplished by placing the restrictions into the PROFILE, as later discussed.)
Access can also be limited by the ADMINISTRATOR of a system.Multiple REPOSITORIES All Appear as Single REPOSITORY to User
The preceding discussion has been framed in terms of a single SERVER. The invention allows multiple SERVERs (ie, multiple REPOSITORIEs) to be linked together, as shown in FIG. 1C. The linking is done by commercially available telecommunication channels.
By the linking, all RESOURCEs, contained in all SERVERs, become available to all PC's. However, the linked structure shown in FIG. 1C is virtually invisible to the user of a given PC. To that user, all RESOURCEs, wherever located, appear as though contained within the user's own SERVER (although the user can ascertain the location of a given RESOURCE, if desired).
For example, the user of PC 1 can obtain access to the following RESOURCEs:
RESOURCE 3, as indicated by dashed path 5;
RESOURCE 4, as indicated by dashed path 10; and
RESOURCE 6, as indicated by dashed path 8.
The user obtains this access without additional steps or procedures. That is, the fact that the RESOURCEs are located within different SERVERs (ie, REPOSITORIES), which may be located in different cities, imposes no requirements of additional procedures. The user sees all RESOURCEs as though they were located in the user's own SERVER.RESOURCEs Can Include SERVICEs, in Addition to REPOSITORIES
The last RESOURCE, number 6, is different from the other two RESOURCEs in the following respect. The REPOSITORY holding RESOURCE 6 is not a SERVER which runs the software of the invention. Instead, this REPOSITORY is a commercially available data SERVICE. In 1994, three such commercially available SERVICEs are Compuserve, GEnie, and Paradox. (The Inventors are not endorsing these particular three SERVICEs, but only pointing to them as providing definitions of the term "SERVICE.")
The SERVICEs use their own software to maintain their RESOURCEs. Nevertheless, the invention allows a user to obtain access to the RESOURCEs within the SERVICEs. (License fees and other considerations are matters to be handled between the users themselves and the SERVICEs. The invention does not provide the user rights to obtain entry into, or connection with, the SERVICEs.)RESOURCEs Can be Viewed as REPOSITORIES
FIG. 1C can, conceptually, be viewed as shown in FIG. 1D. Other SERVERs, and the SERVICEs, are tantamount to RESOURCEs themselves. That is, the user of a PC which is a client of SERVER 14 sees no significant differences between a RESOURCE located in SERVER 14 and a RESOURCE located within another SERVER.Any User Can Place A RESOURCE within any REPOSITORY
A user can create a RESOURCE, such as a computer document, within any REPOSITORY. For example, the user of PC 1 in FIG. 1C can place RESOURCE 15 within SERVER 16. (Provided, of course, that the ADMINISTRATOR of SERVER 16 has given this user permission to do so. Also, SERVICEs, as opposed to SERVERs, may impose restrictions upon a user's ability to place RESOURCEs within them.) This user, called a PROVIDER, can restrict access to the RESOURCE. For example, the PROVIDER can specify that only certain groups (or TEAMs) of other users can obtain access.
As another type of restriction to access, it is here noted that ADMINISTRATORs can, in effect, restrict access in a similar way, by at least two different mechanisms. One, the ADMINISTRATORs determine who gains access to the SERVER under control of the ADMINISTRATOR. Two, the ADMINISTRATOR can assign users of the SERVER into the TEAMS discussed in the previous paragraph.User Can Establish a Standing Search Order
Any user can request that the PROFILEs of newly added RESOURCEs be searched for items of interest to the user. For example, the user can request that the "aerodynamic dimple" search, mentioned above, be performed upon every new PROFILE which is added to every REPOSITORY. When a phrase is found, in a PROFILE, which matches the search criteria ("aerodynamic", "golf ball" etc.), the user is notified.
The standing search is done periodically, at intervals (such as once daily) specified by the user at the time the standing search is established. Then, at every interval, the invention automatically performs the search. The inventors point out that the standing search is not done upon each new PROFILE when it is added to the invention, but at the intervals specified by the user.Continuity Aspects
The invention, as just described, has several aspects of continuity.
The REPOSITORIES are continually being updated.
The network of connected SERVERs (ie, REPOSITORIES) shown in FIG. 1C is expected to continually expand into a larger network, containing ever-increasing SERVERs.
The users can issue standing search orders which continually search the ever-increasing collection of RESOURCEs.
Because of this continuity, the invention has been given the name "Continuous Learning System", or CLS. The CLS can be further explained by analogy to a library.Analogy: Virtual Library
The CLS makes available to a user all of the types of materials (books, newspapers, microfilm, video tapes, etc.) which s an ordinary library makes available to a user. (In addition, as discussed above, the CLS makes available the PHYSICAL OBJECTs shown in FIG. 1B).
However, the CLS provides a "virtual" aspect to this library. The term "virtual" means that the CLS provides many, if not all, of the functions of an actual library, but without requiring the physical presence of many of the accessories of a physical library.
For example, in an actual library, when a patron borrows a book, the book becomes unavailable to other patrons. In contrast, under the CLS, many of the RESOURCEs (which are analogous to the library books) take the form of downloadable data. Multiple copies can be distributed to multiple users, so that possession by one user does not deprive another user of access to the RESOURCE.
As another example, an actual library contains a card catalog. There is at least one card for each book within the library's collection. By analogy, the CLS contains a PROFILE for each RESOURCE. The PROFILEs give important information about each RESOURCE, such as a descriptive title, the location of the RESOURCE, etc.
As yet another example, an actual library contains another type of listing of its books, namely, a "shelf list." The shelf list enumerates all of the books, but in order of ascending library call number, instead of alphabetically. The shelf list tells the physical location of the books, since the books, on their shelves, are arranged in numerical order, according to call number.
Of course, a more macroscopic "shelf list" is the map, found in every library, which explains the locations of different groups of call numbers.
As still another analogy, an actual library categorizes the books according to subjects, in at least two different ways. One, the card catalog contains cards, in alphabetical order, for various subjects. Two, the Dewey Decimal System places books on similar topics at physically neighboring places.
Therefore, viewing library books as RESOURCEs, the invention possesses some of the characteristics of a library. In addition, the invention adds a virtual aspect to the library, as discussed above.
Further, the invention allows a user to order a RESOURCE held by a REPOSITORY, and the RESOURCE will be delivered. If the RESOURCE is of the down-loadable type, it will be down-loaded to the user. Otherwise, a message is sent to the custodian of the RESOURCE, requesting physical delivery.
This discussion will now explain, step-by-step, how a user operates the invention.Exemplary Sequence of Operation
The invention is designed to run in conjunction with a Graphical User Interface (GUI) such as Windows, available from Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington, or the OS/2 operating system, available from IBM Corporation, located in Armonk, N.Y.
FIG. 1 illustrates a typical display which the GUI generates after the computer's power-up sequence has been executed. To launch the invention into operation, a user actuates the icon labeled "CLS," in the usual manner. ("CLS" is an acronym for the phrase "Continuous Learning System," as stated above.)
The invention responds by displaying the screen shown in FIG. 2. This screen prompts the user to enter the user's LOGIN, which is the user's account number for computer usage. The screen also prompts the user to enter the user's PASSWORD. Exemplary LOGINs and PASSWORDs are shown in FIG. 3. (The PASSWORD is represented by cross-hatchings, because the PASSWORD is to be kept confidential. The cross-hatchings prevent a nearby observer from stealing the user's PASSWORD.)
The LOGIN and PASSWORD are assigned to the user by the administrator of the CLS, as explained later.
After entry of the PASSWORD, the invention displays the screen shown in FIG. 4, which informs the user that the process of logging on has commenced. When the log-on is successful, the screen shown in FIG. 5 appears, which can be taken as illustrating Level 1.
This screen provides the user with four options, as indicated by the four buttons labeled 1 through 4. These four options actually encompass a much larger range of available options, but the screen of FIG. 5 presents four options for convenience of the user. In brief, these four options allow the user to perform the following actions:1. LOCATE AND VIEW
The CLS system, as a whole, can be viewed as a repository of is RESOURCEs. In a general sense, the CLS can be viewed as a virtual library. That is, all of the types of materials which are found in a library are made available by the CLS. However, much of the material is stored, and made available to the user, in downloadable computer format. These materials are termed RESOURCEs, and the "library" is termed a REPOSITORY.
RESOURCEs include items which are customarily stored within computer databases, such as computer programs and data. In addition, RESOURCEs include items which are not stored in computer-downloadable format. Examples of these latter RESOURCEs are newspapers, video tapes, 35 millimeter films, books, microfilm, maps, and all other media which are used to carry information. Further, the concept of a RESOURCE extends to non-informational subject matter, such as physical objects.
Every RESOURCE carries with it a PROFILE. Each PROFILE contains important information about the RESOURCE, such as a description of the RESOURCE, where it is located, etc. The LOCATE AND VIEW option allows a user to view the PROFILEs.2. PROVIDE OR DISTRIBUTE
This option allows a user to add RESOURCEs to the CLS.3. IDENTIFY INTERESTS
The CLS allows a user to search the collection of repositories for RESOURCEs in which the user is interested. Some distinctions between "LOCATE AND VIEW" and "IDENTIFY INTERESTS" are significant.
The "LOCATE AND VIEW" option allows a user to order a search, according to specific criteria, as discussed above. The search is done once, at the time it is made.
The "IDENTIFY INTERESTS" option allows the user to establish a search which will be done at periodic intervals in the future. The intervals are specified by the user. CLS automatically performs the searches, at the specified intervals, and informs the user of the results.4. PERSONAL INFORMATION
This option allows a user to view and modify information associated with the user's PROFILE.
This discussion will give several examples of use of these options.Example 1 LOCATE AND VIEW
Assume that the user actuates the LOCATE AND VIEW button, number 1, as in FIG. 6. The CLS responds by displaying the screen shown in FIG. 7. This screen offers the user eight options:
1. ALL RESOURCES. This option displays the titles of all RESOURCEs which are available to the user.
2. GENERAL SEARCH. This option allows a user to search the PROFILEs of all RESOURCEs in pursuit of a particular phrase. The GENERAL SEARCH allows Boolean Key-Word searching of the PROFILEs.
3. CATEGORY. This option allows a user to search the PROFILEs by CATEGORY. For example, assume that the user is a women's fashion designer. The CLS can contain a collection of drawings and photographs of interest to the fashion industry. The PROFILES can be divided into CATEGORIES such as "Hats," "Shoes," "Evening Wear," Winter Wear," etc.
4. MEDIA. This option allows a user to obtain access to PROFILEs, based on the media type. For example, one media type is video tape. Another is paper. FIG. 26 gives further examples of types of media. Media types include down-loadable computer files and data, video tapes, photographic film, books, audio tape, CD-ROM, and so on. Media type refers, generally, to the physical characteristics of the medium which carries the data.
5. REPOSITORIES. This option allows a user to view the RESOURCEs according to the REPOSITORY which holds them. For example, assume that the Library of Congress is one REPOSITORY, and the New York City Public Library is another. The user can elect to view all PROFILEs of RESOURCEs of either library, by selecting the REPOSITORY.
6. SYSTEMS. This option is similar to REPOSITORIEs. This option allows a user to obtain access to commercially available SERVICEs, as that term is defined above. These SERVICEs are also called "On-Line Databases." By selecting this option, a user can gain access to one of these services, through the CLS.
7. SAVE SEARCH AS INTEREST. This option allows a user to establish a standing search, wherein PROFILEs are searched as they are created. For example, if the aerodynamic golf ball maker, described above, chooses this option for the search, then every new PROFILE which is added to the system is searched for the terms "aerodynamic" etc. The user is notified when a PROFILE matching the search criteria is found.Example Continued
Assume that the user selects button 2 in FIG. 7, GENERAL SEARCH, as indicated by the highlighted button in FIG. 8. The CLS responds by displaying the screen shown in FIG. 9. This display prompts the user to request a search based on three criteria (or less).
For example, assume that the user is interested in RESOURCEs having the word "UNIX" in the titles of their PROFILEs. The user enters the word "UNIX," as indicated in FIG. 10. The CLS performs a search of all REPOSITORIEs, and locates all PROFILEs having the word "UNIX" in their titles. FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary result of the search.
The search provides three pieces of information about each RESOURCE identified by the search. One, the media type, as indicated in the column headed "Media." The phrase "On Line" indicates that the RESOURCE is "On-Line," or in a computer-down-loadable format (as opposed to being on paper or 35 mm film). If a RESOURCE takes a non-downloadable form, such as a 35 mm film, then the "Media" column so indicates.
The "Date/Time" column indicates the date and time when the PROFILE corresponding to a RESOURCE was created.
The "Title" refers to the title carried by the PROFILE corresponding to each RESOURCE.
Significantly, the screen does not indicate the location of each RESOURCE. To the user, all RESOURCEs appear as though residing at a common location, even though they may be scattered over a vast geographic area. Of course, if the user wished to identify the locations of these RESOURCEs, the user could do so, using other options described herein.User Retrieves Resource
Assume that the user wishes to obtain item number 7 in FIG. 11. The user highlights this item, using a mouse (or keyboard, or other actuation device, such as a voice sensor), causing the display to appear as in FIG. 12. Then, the user actuates the button labeled "RETRIEVE," causing the display to take the appearance shown in FIG. 13. The icon bearing the subtitle "CLS Download," located at the bottom of the Figure, indicates that a down-loading operation is taking place.
After the downloading is complete, the screen shown in FIG. 14 is generated. This screen indicates three important facts. One fact is indicated by the background of the screen, and the heading at the top of the screen. The background and the heading indicate that a computer program was launched.
CLS examined the RESOURCE which was downloaded, and looked for indicia which identified a computer program which was used to create the RESOURCE. In this example, the RESOURCE was a file which was generated by a word-processing program, namely, Microsoft Word.TM..
Having identified the word processing program, the CLS searched for the program, and launched it when CLS found it. The heading in the display shown in FIG. 14 indicates that this program has been launched.
The second fact is that CLS caused the word processing program to load the RESOURCE which was downloaded, namely, that which was located during the search for the UNIX title.
The third fact is that the screen shown in FIG. 14 informs the user that the RESOURCE which has been downloaded does not exist elsewhere in the user's computer, and, to be saved, must be saved by a specific action taken by the user. (Of course, the RESOURCE maintains its existence in the REPOSITORY from which it was retrieved). The prompt in FIG. 14 reminds the user to save the RESOURCE when the user exits the word processing program; otherwise the RESOURCE will be lost.
FIG. 15 illustrates the display generated by the CLS after the user responds to the prompt of FIG. 14. The RESOURCE is displayed by the same type of word processing program which generated the RESOURCE.
As another searching example, assume that the user orders the search shown in FIG. 16. The user orders that the CLS retrieve all PROFILES having both the word "unix" and the word "library" in their titles. The result of the search is shown in FIG. 17. The result is a single title which, coincidentally, is the same as that selected for downloading as indicated in FIG. 12.LEVEL 2: LOCATE AND VIEW BY CATEGORY
Assume that the user is at level 2 within CLS. That is, the user selected option 1 in FIG. 5, which represents Level 1.
In Level 2, the user wishes to Locate and View by CATEGORY, as indicated by the button actuated in FIG. 18. The CLS responds by presenting a list of the CATEGORIEs of RESOURCEs which are available, as shown in FIG. 19.
This list, in general, includes RESOURCEs from multiple REPOSITORIEs. That is, the list is global in scope, because the REPOSITORIEs are, physically, located at multiple locations throughout the world.
However, the global aspect of the list is transparent to the user: to the user, the list is simply a list of locally available RESOURCEs. The location of the RESOURCEs is not emphasized to the user, partly because the location does not affect access: downloadable RESOURCEs are available immediately, while non-DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCEs are available as fast as modern transport can deliver them, typically within one day.
If the user selects a CATEGORY, as indicated by the highlighted CATEGORY "CLS-TEAM NOTES," then the CLS responds by displaying a list of the RESOURCEs contained within the CATEGORY, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21.
This list is conceptually similar to the list of RESOURCEs shown in FIG. 12. In that Figure, the RESOURCEs listed shared a common feature, namely: they all contained phrases in their PROFILE titles which match a search string issued in FIG. 10. Similarly, in FIG. 20, all RESOURCEs listed share the common feature of residing the same category.
Restated: the RESOURCEs are grouped according to fixed categories, such as those shown in FIG. 19. The RESOURCEs can also be grouped into categories by a search call.
Assume that the user wishes to obtain the RESOURCE which is highlighted in FIG. 21. The user actuates the proper button on the screen, using a mouse, and the CLS retrieves the RESOURCE. In this case, the RESOURCE takes the form of downloadable data, so that the CLS is able to obtain the RESOURCE, by telephone, or other data channel, from the RESOURCE's REPOSITORY.
The CLS examines the RESOURCE, in order to ascertain whether a computer program is required to display the resource in its intended manner. In the present example, the CLS found that such a program is required, but also found, in attempting to launch that program, that the program was unavailable, or otherwise unsuitable for displaying the RESOURCE. Thus, the CLS displays the screen shown in FIG. 22.
This screen informs the user that the program is unavailable, and reminds the user that, to save the downloaded RESOURCE, the user must take active steps. Otherwise, the RESOURCE will be lost, and, to be obtained again, must be retrieved from the REPOSITORY.
The CLS presents the user with the screen shown in FIG. 23 and 24, and allows the user to save the RESOURCEs, which in this example take the form of computer files, in the usual manner.
Two examples will illustrate some important points regarding the meaning of "display in the intended manner."Example 1
Generally, word processing programs display their documents in formats which are somewhat unique to each program, and also store their documents in different data formats on floppy diskettes.
For instance, consider text which should be underlined, when printed on paper. One word processing program may display this text, on a computer display, as actually underlined. Another word processing program may instead display this text in a different color from the surrounding, non-underlined text.
Further, the two word processing programs will probably store the document on floppy diskettes as different sequences of bytes. That is, the sequences stored on diskettes contain two (or more) types of data. The first type includes the bytes for the actual text of the document. ASCII codes are commonly used, although other codes exist, such as EBCDIC.
The second type includes formatting codes, which indicate special characteristics of given sections of text, such as the underlining discussed above. Different word processing programs, in general, use different codes to signal different characteristics of the text.
Thus, a given formatting code may have different meanings in different documents created by different word processors. The given code may cause a given piece of text to appear with underlining when displayed on one word processor, yet cause the same text to appear as a different color in another processor.
Further, when some processors display documents generated in another processor, they simply strip out all such codes, and display the document in a predetermined, default format.
The CLS identifies the program which generated the RESOURCE (such as a word processing document) which is retrieved, and attempts to launch the program which generated the RESOURCE, so that the RESOURCE will appear in the same manner as when it was created.
This identification is done not only for word processing documents, but for all RESOURCEs which are retrieved, such as graphics RESOURCEs, spreadsheet RESOURCEs, and so on.Example 2
Multi-media systems display information to a user in several formats, simultaneously. The information can be visual, as on a computer display. The visual information can be static, as a graphic, or sheet of text. The visual information can be dynamic, as in a changing sequence of images, as in video or animation.
The information can also be audible, and played from a speaker.
Conceivably, the information can be tactile. For example, Morse Code can be represented as a sequence of long and short beeps. A proper transducer can make these beeps detectable to the sense of touch, by vibrating a pad which is touched by the fingers. Visually impaired persons may utilize such a transducer.
Another type of tactile information results from the conversion of visual text into Braille text. The conversion is done by an electromechanical device, known in the art, containing a matrix of parallel pins. The device raises the proper pins to display each letter of the visual text in the proper Braille format.
There are numerous other formats of information display. The identification process under discussion examines a RESOURCE which is downloaded, and ascertains whether additional files, information, or data are required to generate a presentation for the user in the format intended by the RESOURCE.
The invention locates the necessary files and information, and launches the proper computer programs necessary for communication with the user, in the manner intended by the RESOURCE.Alternate Procedures
It is possible to establish a procedure for running a suitable alternative program, for displaying a RESOURCE, when a given program is not available. For example, if a RESOURCE requires a particular word processing program, and if that program is unavailable when the RESOURCE is downloaded, then the CLS can be programmed to run another program, such as an earlier version of the given program, or another program entirely.
A variation of launching the program can be taken with RESOURCEs which take the form of compressed data files. For example, the suffix ".zip" is commonly attached to files which are in compressed format, and require de-compression for use. When the CLS examines the file, it will see the suffix, and launch the proper de-compression program to unpack the file. Then, after unpacking, the CLS again examines the file to ascertain the program which will display the file in its intended manner.LEVEL 2 LOCATE AND VIEW, MEDIA
Assume that the user is at level 2 within the CLS. That is, the user selected option 1 in FIG. 5, which represents Level 1, and advanced to Level 2.
In Level 2, the user wishes to Locate and View RESOURCEs by MEDIA type, as indicated by the button actuated in FIG. 25. The CLS responds by presenting a list of the different types of MEDIA on which RESOURCEs are stored, as shown in FIG. 26.
Assume that a user wishes to view a list of all RESOURCEs taking the form of video MEDIA (eg, videotape cassettes on VIIS or Beta format, and one-inch or two-inch reel tape). The user highlights the "Video" entry, as in FIG. 27, and the CLS responds with a list of all RESOURCEs stored in video format, as indicated in FIG. 28.
As the screen indicates, the user can select a RESOURCE, and then view the PROFILE associated with that RESOURCE. In addition, the user can retrieve the RESOURCE.
If the RESOURCE takes the form of down-loadable data, then the RESOURCE is downloaded in the usual manner. However, in the case of video MEDIA, the REPOSITORY holding the RESOURCE may not possess equipment capable of downloading the video by a data link to the user. (That is, the MEDIA may take the form of a videocassette tape. Data stored on such tape can be analog data, rather than digital data. Analog data is not directly downloadable.)
In this case, the CLS informs the user of the inability to download, and inquires whether the user wishes to request that the RESOURCE be physically delivered to the user. If so, the CLS notifies the REPOSITORY holding the RESOURCE of the user's request. This notification takes the form of a message sent to the ADMINISTRATOR of the REPOSITORY in question, using the CLS. Alternately, the notification can take the form of the CLS sending a message by a commercially available electronic mail service. Sometimes, for added reliability, both types of notification can be undertaken.
It is possible to add the following feature to the CLS. When a user places an order for retrieval of a physical object, such as the video tape in the present example, the CLS, in addition to notifying the REPOSITORY of the request, also notifies a transportation agent.
For example, if both the user and the REPOSITORY are affiliated with the same business organization, the CLS can notify the organization's mail service that the REPOSITORY will soon have a parcel ready for delivery. The mail service takes the appropriate steps to pick up the parcel.
In addition, the CLS can be arranged such that the PROFILEs of RESOURCEs which are non-downloadable contain relevant shipment information, such as a notation that the RESOURCE is especially delicate, large, or heavy. When a user requests physical delivery of a RESOURCE, the CLS examines the PROFILE, learns whether relevant shipment information exists, and forewarns the transportation agent of the information.
For example, when the CLS informs the mail service that a parcel (the video tape) will be awaiting retrieval at the REPOSITORY, the CLS also informs the mail service of the size of the parcel (very small) so that the mail service knows whether special preparations are required for the pick-up.
As an alternative to notifying an internal mail service, the CLS may notify a public, common carrier, of the impending shipment, and request that carrier to pick up the parcel. This notification can be accomplished by using commercially available electronic mail services.
As another alternate, as FIG. 96 indicates, the user may choose that a facsimile message (or FAX) be sent, requesting order of the RESOURCE. One implementation of this FAXing capability requires that the LOCAL SERVER, or the user's PC, be equipped with a facsimile modem, which are known in the art. The content of the FAX is a predetermined "form" letter, to which CLS adds the identify of the RESOURCE, plus other ordering information required by the custodian of the RESOURCE.Classification of RESOURCEs
RESOURCEs can be classified as "physical," as physical objects, such as flex diskettes, videotapes, etc., or "soft," as in computer-downloadable RESOURCEs, such as software.
When a user orders a "physical" RESOURCE, a message, as discussed above, is sent to the custodian of the RESOURCE, requesting delivery. When a user orders a "soft" RESOURCE, the RESOURCE is downloaded to the user directly.Features of Display of FIG. 26
FIG. 26 displays a list of RESOURCEs, containing both "soft" and "physical" RESOURCEs. The "On Line" entry contains soft RESOURCEs, while most of the remainder are physical RESOURCEs.
When the user orders one of the physical RESOURCEs, the information which CLS transmits to the custodian of the RESOURCE is in a format which facilitates automatic order-filling by the custodian, if the custodian is so equipped.
For example, a common electronic mail message will contain the ordering user's name and address. This information is in an electronic format which is easy to assimilate into custodian's inventory management, or product ordering. That is, the information is contained within a data file which the custodian can retrieve into the system which handles the custodian's order entry system. The custodian can manually transfer the ordering information (such purchaser's name and address) to the files used in filling orders. Alternately, the custodian can be equipped with a computer program which searches the electronic mail message for ordering information, and automatically loads the information into the custodian's order-filling software system. An example will illustrate.
Assume that the electronic mail message contains the following text:
Item ordered: Stock number ABC 123
Purchaser: John Blank
Address: 4343 Oak Terrace, Dayton, Ohio 45479
How to Bill: (Credit Card or Internal or Send Bill)
Credit Card Number: 1111 2222 3333 4444
The custodian's program searches the text for the phrase "Item ordered." When the program finds this text, it then searches the subsequent text for the stock number to be ordered, and copies the stock number to the order-filling file.
The program copies the rest of the information to the order-filling file in a similar manner. (The "How to Bill" phrase is followed by three possibilities. The ordering person selects one of these, as by entering a numeral "1", "2", or "3". The custodian's program detects the selection, and sets into motion the proper billing action.
Different custodians, in general, will require different items of information. Once the items are known, and the message format is established by the ADMINISTRATOR, the message which CLS sends to the custodians will contain all information which is necessary for completion of a normal business transaction, resulting in transfer of the ordered RESOURCE. And, as described above, the message can automatically trigger initiation of the ordering process.LOCATE AND VIEW BY REPOSITORIEs
Assume that the user is at level 2 within the CLS. That is, the user selected option 1 in FIG. 5, which represents Level 1.
In Level 2, the user now wishes to Locate and View by REPOSITORY, as indicated by the button actuated in FIG. 29. In response, the CLS displays all REPOSITORIEs holding RESOURCEs, as indicated in FIG. 30. Assume that the user selects the REPOSITORY "Marketing Core Server Team," as indicated by the highlighted entry in the Figure.
In response, the CLS displays the RESOURCEs held by the selected REPOSITORY, as indicated in FIGS. 31 and 32. Assume that the user selects the RESOURCE entitled "Windows NT `The Right Choice`", as indicated by the highlighted entry in FIG. 32.
In response, the CLS retrieves the RESOURCE and examines (as explained above) the RESOURCE to ascertain which, if any, program is required to display the RESOURCE. This particular RESOURCE requires the program entitled "Powerpoint," available from Microsoft Corporation, as indicated by the suffix ".PPT" contained in the name of the RESOURCE.
The CLS launches the Powerpoint program, and loads the RESOURCE into the program, thereby displaying the RESOURCE in its intended format, as indicated in FIG. 33.LOCATE AND VIEW BY, SYSTEMs
Assume that the user is at level 2 within the CLS. That is, the user selected option 1 in FIG. 5, which represents Level 1.
In Level 2, the user now wishes to Locate and View by SYSTEMs, as indicated by the button actuated in FIG. 34. In response, the CLS provides a list of systems which are available to the user, as shown in FIG. 35.
The term "system" refers to organizations which maintain collections of information, such as stock market reports, newspapers, magazines, and so on, which are downloadable to a user. Three exemplary SYSTEMs were identified above.
When the user selects a SYSTEM, as indicated in FIG. 36, the CLS connects the user with that SYSTEM. The user obtains access to the system, and obtains the same use of the system as if the user had connected to the system outside the CLS. When the connection is made with a SYSTEM, the CLS displays an appropriate screen, such as that shown in FIG. 37.Adding a RESOURCE to a REPOSITORY
The user can return to Level 1 by actuating the button shown in FIG. 38, which causes the screen shown in FIG. 39 to be displayed. The CLS has returned the user to Level 1.
Assume that the user selects option #2, "Provide and Distribute." In response to this option, the CLS displays the screen shown in FIG. 40, which allows the user to select the "Provide" option, as indicated. If the user selects the "Provide" option, the CLS responds with the screen shown in FIG. 41.
This screen represents the PROFILE of the RESOURCE which the user is about to provide to a REPOSITORY. The user fills out the PROFILE in the usual manner, as by the sequence illustrated by FIGS. 41-49. Several points are significant.
The user, who is now a PROVIDER, declares an "Access Level," by selecting a box at the upper right part of FIG. 41. If the user selects "Public," then any person gaining access to the CLS can obtain access to the RESOURCE now being added.
If the user selects "Organization" or "Team," then only those members of the user's respective organization or team can gain access. If the user belongs to many teams or organizations, the CLS asks the user to specify those to whom access should be granted.
The "Resource Title" is, of course, the title which appears on the PROFILE. When another user, at a later time, performs searches using the CLS, this title will appear in the list of titles returned to the later user.
The "Resource Category" refers to the "Category" described in connection with FIGS. 18-21. The RESOURCE now being created will become located within the CATEGORY specified on the PROFILE in FIG. 41. Whenever a later user searches this CATEGORY, the title of the newly created RESOURCE will be found. (Of course, if the new RESOURCE has access limited to a particular "Team," and if the later user is not a member of this "Team," then the later user will not see the title when any searches are performed. This aspect is described near the end of the Specification.)
If the PROVIDER finds the CATEGORIEs which CLS provides to be unsuitable (these have been created previously by other users of the system), then the PROVIDER can create a new CATEGORY. The PROVIDER does this by choosing the option "OTHER," which is presented when the PROVIDER actuates the box labeled "INFORMATION CATEGORY" in FIGS. 41-49. The new CATEGORY is then added to the list of CATEGORIEs, and is shown to all users who subsequently elect to view the CATEGORIEs.
"Repository" in FIG. 41 refers to the REPOSITORY which will receive and then maintain the RESOURCE.
"Media" refers to the media type, such as those shown in FIG. 27.
"Bitmap" refers to a graphical image, or picture, which the PROVIDER can associate with the PROFILE. FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate how the PROVIDER identifies the file which contains this image, at the time of creation of the PROFILE. Once the file has been identified, CLS stores it with the PROFILE. At subsequent times, when other users call up the PROFILE, they can actuate the "Bitmap" option, and CLS will display the graphical image.
For example, if the PROFILE's RESOURCE is a physical object, such as a fuel pump for an automobile, the graphical image may take the form of a picture of the pump.Searching for Resource Just Created
FIGS. 41-49 described creating a PROFILE for a new RESOURCE. It was entitled "Test Resource for Training," as indicated in FIG. 49. FIG. 50 illustrates a search request, undertaken under the LOCATE AND VIEW option, done in pursuit of this newly created RESOURCE.
FIG. 51 illustrates the results of the search. The new RESOURCE is highlighted by the user, and the RESOURCE PROFILE option is selected. If the user actuates the button labeled "Resource Profile," located at the upper right part of the Figure, CLS displays the PROFILE of this highlighted RESOURCE, as shown in FIG. 52.
(If the user selects the "E-Mail" option, by actuating the proper button at the bottom of the Figure, but if the E-Mail option is unavailable, then CLS responds with the message shown in FIG. 53.) This message indicates that the file could not be mailed electronically, but specifies the location of the RESOURCE, and inquires whether the user wishes to view the RESOURCE. If the user selects YES, then CLS displays the RESOURCE, as shown in FIG. 54.ESTABLISHING A STANDING SEARCH (LEVEL 1--IDENTIFY INTERESTs)
In brief, this option allows a user to establish a standing search, analogous to a search described in FIGS. 9-12, above. However, this standing search examines new RESOURCEs shortly after they are added to their REPOSITORIEs, instead of searching the REPOSITORIEs immediately. How often the standing search is executed is controlled by the user.
Thus, if a user is interested in new developments in, say, pediatric medicine, the user would establish a standing search in the appropriate category for the subject of interest. The user accomplishes this as follows.
At Level 1, as indicated in FIG. 55, a user can select option #3, "Identify Interests." The CLS responds by displaying the screen shown in FIG. 56. Assume that the user selects option #2, "Add/Delete Interests."
The CLS displays the screen shown in FIG. 57, which invites the user to enter a phrase which describes the interest. The user can enter a phrase or, as indicated in FIG. 58, opt to view the user's presently established INTERESTs (if any exist). FIG. 59 illustrates the present INTERESTs, namely, "CLS." This INTEREST was saved after a previous search was performed.
Irrespective of the particular manner in which the user creates an INTEREST (either by (a) direct entry of a phrase in FIG. 58, (b) by recalling a previous interest, or (c) by modification of the previous interest) the CLS acts upon the interest in the following way.
The CLS, automatically, searches each new PROFILE, at the times specified by the user when the INTEREST was created, according to the search criteria established by the INTEREST.
During a search, if the search criteria are fulfilled, the CLS notifies the user. The CLS accomplishes the notification by placing a small icon on the screen of the user's computer. This icon does not disrupt any current activity of the user. One such icon is that located in the lower left comer of FIG. 5, indicating "9 notifications," meaning that nine PROFILEs were found which match the standing search, or INTEREST.
The user can view the search results, as shown in FIG. 62, by actuating the button at the lower left, associated with the phrase "10 notifications." The search results are then displayed, as shown in FIG. 62.
FIG. 60 illustrates a screen from which a user may exit. Upon exiting, the GUI will display a screen of the type shown in FIG. 61. The icon containing the number "10" and labeled "NCR Continuous Learning" indicates the results of a standing search, or INTEREST. To view the search results from this level, the user actuates this icon, which causes the display shown in FIG. 62 to be generated. The display lists the PROFILEs found which match the search criteria.REMINDER TO SAVE UPON EXITING
When a user wishes to exit the CLS, the user actuates the exit button, as shown in FIG. 63. If the CLS contains local files, which have been downloaded, but not yet saved, the CLS reminds the user of this fact at this time, by means of the screen shown in FIG. 64. The user takes appropriate action. (Of course, the originals of the downloaded items are still located at their respective RESOURCEs, and are not lost if the user does not heed the warning screen shown in FIG. 64.)
Upon exiting the CLS, the Graphical User Interface displays a screen resembling that in FIG. 65.MODIFICATION OF TEAM MEMBERSHIP
FIG. 66 explains the fact that the CLS Administrators manage the membership of teams, and provides a scenario wherein subsequent Figures illustrate modification of team membership. These screens are available only to the Administrator of the SERVER running CLS, and not to the users.
In FIG. 67, the Administrator actuates the MEMBERSHIP button. The CLS responds with a list of members, as shown in FIG. 68, together with the team affiliation of each. The team affiliation follows the symbol "@".
In FIG. 69, the Administrator clicks the ADD button, because the Administrator wishes to add a member to a team. The CLS responds by displaying the screen shown in FIG. 70. The Administrator provides the information requested, and actuates the proper buttons on the screen.
The CLS adds the person identified in the screen shown in FIG. 70 to the proper team. The membership of the new team can be viewed as shown in FIG. 71.
The screen of FIG. 71 can also be used as a launching point to modify membership of the TEAMs under the control of the Administrator. (The Administrator of each SERVER handles the TEAM membership of that SERVER.) The Administrator actuates the button TEAMs, causing the CLS to display the screen shown in FIG. 72. For simplicity, a single team is illustrated, namely "CLS ADMIN USERS."
The Administrator actuates the MODIFY button, causing the CLS to display the screen shown in FIG. 73. The upper frame lists the current members of the TEAM selected in FIG. 72. The lower frame provides a roster of possible members. This roster includes all users which the SERVER, under control of the ADMINISTRATOR, serves.
The ADMINISTRATOR selects users in the lower frame to be added to the TEAM, as indicated by the highlighting in FIG. 74, and then actuates the ADD button, as shown in FIG. 75. The CLS adds the selected users to the TEAM, as indicated in FIG. 76.CREATING A RESOURCE WHICH IS LIMITED TO SPECIFIC TEAMS
FIG. 77 illustrates a PROFILE of an exemplary RESOURCE which is being created by the ADMINISTRATOR, and which is entitled "CONFIDENTIAL REPORT ON CLS SECURITY REQUIREMENTS." The PROFILE is generated as shown in FIG. 78, and, as indicated, access to it has been restricted by the entry adjacent the symbol "CLS ADMIN USERS."
To illustrate the restricted access to the RESOURCE (after its creation) the ADMINISTRATOR first performs a SEARCH (using steps not shown, but explained above, in connection with FIGS. 10-12) which would ordinarily locate the newly created RESOURCE. The results of the search are shown in FIG. 79. The "CONFIDENTIAL REPORT . . . ", which is the RESOURCE just created, appears at the bottom of the list.
Then, as explained in FIG. 80, the Administrator simulates a search run by a user who is not a member of any team which has been granted access to this "CONFIDENTIAL REPORT . . . . " As indicated by FIGS. 80 and 81, the non-TEAM member performs a search which would, ordinarily, locate the "CONFIDENTIAL REPORT . . . . " However, FIG. 83 shows the search results, which omit the "CONFIDENTIAL REPORT" from the list of RESOURCES available to this user.
This sequence illustrates the fact that the creator of a RESOURCE controls the access to the RESOURCE, by identifying the TEAMS which can gain access to the RESOURCE.Flow Chart of Programs
FIGS. 84-96 illustrate a flow chart of the logic followed by the program contained in the microfiche appendix. This program was written to run on computers using the 80X86 family of microprocessors, available from Intel Corporation. The microfiche appendix, together with the flow chart, will allow a user to write code which can run on other processors.
In the flow chart, the word "illustration" refers to the patent Figures. For example, in flow chart FIG. 84, the fourth paragraph in the large box states: "See illustration 6 . . . " "Illustration 6" refers to FIG. 6.Brief Description of Files
The files identified in the flow chart are summarized as follows.
1. MAINCAT1.OBS--Purpose: main screen. Generates four icon-buttons, namely,
(1) Locate & View (refers to MAINCAT2),
(2) Identify Interests (refers to MAINCAT3),
(3) Personal Information (refers to MAINCAT), and
(4) Provide or Distribute (refers to MAINCAT5). Subscription Alert, Checks & Button
2. MAINCAT2.OBS--Locate & View screen Generates eight icon-buttons, namely,
(1) Resource Catalog (A to Z) (refers to MAINCAT1),
(2) Search (refers to SRCHNEW),
(3) Resource Catalog Categories (refers to MAINCAT1),
(4) Media, Search by (refers to MAINCAT1),
(5) Repositories, Search by (refers to MAINCAT1),
(6) Systems (refers to MAINCAT1),
(7) Save as Interest (refers to PROFILE), and
(8) Return to Main Menu.
3. MAINCAT3. OBS--Identify interests screen. Generates two icon-buttons, namely,
(1) View Interests (refers to PROFILE), and
(2) Interests Administration (refers to PROFILE).
4. MAINCAT4.OBS--Personal information screen. Generates two icon-buttons, namely,
(1) View Personal Profile (refers to USER2), and
(2) Change Password (refers to PWDCHG).
5. MAINCAT.OBS--Provide or Distribute System. Generates two icon-buttons, namely,
(1) Provide (refers to CATADMIN), and
(2) Membership (Administration Only) (refers to MEMBERS N/A).
6. CAT1.OBS--Interactive screen to Locate & View by "A to Z," Category, Media, Repository, and also for viewing alternate Systems reachable from CLS (refers to RESULTS.OBS).
7. SRCHNEW.OBS--General search screen; user-interactive screen for search of the CLS database by logical combinations of title, description, and date (refers to RESULTS.OBS).
8. RESULTS.OBS--Results screen (includes number of entries found in search, list of entries, "more info" button, OK, and Cancel buttons). Key function cataloginfo(): gets profile information and, if needed, retrieves the corresponding file and opens it locally in appropriate application; may call CATDBF1 to display profile.
9. PROFILE.OBS, PROFILE1.OBS--Screen to add or delete interests.
10. CATADMIN.OBS--Screen to administer accessible resource profiles (especially New, Modify, Delete). (Refers also to NCRCAT.INC (especially Getinfo() function, called by Modify(). Also refers to DIALOG.OBS.)
Important subroutines: Commit() (OK), Modify(), and FID206() (Delete).
11. MEMBERS.OBS--Screen lists all members of teams, and allows Administrator to add, modify, and delete members. (Refers to USERADM.OBS.)
12. CATDBF1.OBS--Shows profile data and also information on contact and functions to request more information directly from contact. Can also retrieve corresponding "On-Line" file and open it locally in appropriate application, in manner similar to RESULTS.OBS. (Refers to QTY.OBV.)
13. USERADMIN.OBS--Screen to add, modify, or delete members from the CLS. (Refers to NEWORG.OBS.)
14. CLNSIGN1.OBS--Purpose: initial sign-on for the CLS. See FIG. 3. Verify( ) performs the single logon to the SERVER. (Server$ appears only here.)
15. PWDCHG.OBS--Screen to allow users to change their own passwords.
16. USER2.OBS--Screen to allow user to view his or her personal information profile (eg, name, e-mail address, user environment). The information is maintained and edited only by the Administrator.
17. NEWORG.OBS--Screen for use by CLS Administrator to define "organization" (as used in CATADMIN for "IPD Only"/"Organization" checkbox.)
18. DIALOG.OBS--For adding "Bitmap"/"Preview" from SUB FID257 in CATADMIN.OBS.
19. ABOUT.OBS--Screen gives CLS version and system information, and access to CREDITS.OBV.
20. ADVISOR.OBS--Activated from MAINCAT1.OBS, lines 593 and 616. This module executes the display of the list of supplemental operating instructions, described in point number 7, below.
21. ALERT.OBS--Activated from MAINCAT1.OBS, line 590. This module allows an ADMINISTRATOR to privately communicate with a selected user, as described in point number 8, below.
22. CLNSAVE.OBS--Screen for saving files from CLS.
23. CLSINTRO.OBS--Relates to a screen displayed before CLS runs.
24. CREDITS.OBS--Credits for CLS product.Additional Considerations
1. Each REPOSITORY takes the form of mass memory which is associated with a computer, which is called a SERVER. (Alternately, the REPOSITORY can include both the SERVER and the mass memory.)
The REPOSITORIEs hold the PROFILEs of the RESOURCEs. Some RESOURCEs are downloadable, and are stored in the mass memory. Other RESOURCEs are not downloadable, and will be stored at a location designated on their respective PROFILEs.
The invention links all REPOSITORIEs together, in a manner which is transparent to the user. For example, as discussed above, a user can request a listing of the titles of all RESOURCEs, no matter which REPOSITORIEs hold the RESOURCEs.
The listing appears, to the user, as though all RESOURCEs are located in a single REPOSITORY, although, in general, such is not the case: multiple REPOSITORIEs are involved.
Of course, if the user calls for a particular PROFILE whose title appears in the listing, the PROFILE identifies the REPOSITORY. If the user examines several PROFILEs, it will become clear that multiple REPOSITORIEs are involved.
From another point of view, every user can obtain access to the PROFILEs contained in all REPOSITORIEs (subject to the access/security restrictions discussed above.) These PROFILEs can be searched presently (or as they are created, by establishing an INTEREST), without regard to the fact that multiple REPOSITORIEs hold the PROFILEs.
In addition, every user can obtain any RESOURCE, identified in a PROFILE, no matter which REPOSITORY holds it (subject, again, to the security restrictions.)
Thus, despite the fact that the RESOURCEs and their PROFILEs are distributed over multiple REPOSITORIEs, which themselves can be distributed world-wide geographically, the user deals with them as though they were located in a single place.
As stated earlier, the soft RESOURCEs are located at local SERVERs. The PROFILEs are located in REGIONAL SERVERs.
2. When a RESOURCE is downloaded to a SERVER, the invention examines the RESOURCE in an attempt to identify whether a computer program should be launched, or other actions taken, in order to properly display the RESOURCE. One type of examination involves looking at the file name of the RESOURCE. For example, the file name "Letter.doc" is interpreted as having been created by a word processor which customarily adds the suffix "doc" to its files.
When the invention finds this suffix "doc", the invention consults a look-up table, finds the program which uses the suffix "doc", and then attempts to locate the program, launch it, and load the RESOURCE into it.
Another type of examination involves examining data contained in a header of the RESOURCE. These examinations can collectively be described as looking for indicia which identify the program which generated the RESOURCE.
3. One significant feature of the invention is that all possible options available to a user are displayed on the screens generated by the invention. Selecting an option is self-explanatory: a pointing device is used (for example).
Providing information which the option requires is also self-explanatory: the user fills in blanks, such as those shown in FIG. 45 (which relate to PROFILEs), using a keyboard.
This feature eliminates a need for the user to remember arcane computer commands, and reduces time required to learn how to use the invention.
4. As discussed above, the PROFILEs are stored in REGIONAL SERVERs, while the downloadable RESOURCEs are stored in LOCAL SERVERs. A physical RESOURCE, described by a PROFILE stored in a REGIONAL SERVER, can be stored at any convenient location.
Multiple REGIONAL SERVERs, all storing identical collections of PROFILEs, in order to enhance performance. That is, multiple REGIONAL SERVERs can provide faster response to numerous users than can a single REGIONAL SERVER.
5. FIG. 95 indicates that the files MEMBERSHIP.OBV and MEMBERSHIP.OBS are not included in the microfiche appendix. The reason is that these files contain the actual membership lists. These lists are created by the user of CLS.
6. FIG. 2 contains the phrase, in faint grey lettering, "CLS Overview." This represents an option for the user to view a six-screen tutorial which explains how to use the CLS system. The tutorial automatically is shown when a user logs on for the first time. The user can de-activate the tutorial, which causes the option to be displayed in grayed text, as in FIG. 2.
7. It has been found that users pose questions to the ADMINISTRATOR regarding operation of the system. These questions are delivered to the ADMINISTRATOR in any convenient manner, such as by telephone, letter, electronic mail, etc.
The invention allows the ADMINISTRATOR to provide to the users a list of these questions, together with answers to the questions (or any selected group of questions-and-answers). The users obtain access to these questions by the button in FIG. 5 labeled "CLS Advisor."
In practice, the ADMINISTRATOR will continually update the list of questions, thus providing a continually updated list of instructions for operating the system.
8. CLS makes provision for the ADMINISTRATORs to send private messages to single users. When the message arrives, an icon appears on the user's screen, informing the user of the message.Definitions
The terms used herein have established meanings in the art. Some additional definitions are the following.
The term "Personal Computer," or PC, has been used. It is to be understood that this term is not limited to the specific set of microcomputers having an architecture designed around the 8XX86 microprocessor manufactured by Intel Corporation. Rather, the term refers to microcomputers generically, and includes, for example, desktop computers, laptop computers, workstations, and terminals. The term includes machines designed according to different architectures and using different processors.
SERVERs are computers, and frequently take the form of large, mainframes. However, as computer technology evolves, the power of mainframes is becoming available in much smaller devices.
A significant feature of the invention is that the invention allows a given PC to act as either a SERVER or as a CLIENT of a SERVER.
RESOURCEs have been described above. RESOURCEs are located in REPOSITORIEs. If a RESOURCE takes the form of downloadable data, then such a RESOURCE will most likely be stored in mass storage (eg, disc drives or tape systems) of a SERVER.
However, it is not required that this mass storage be directly "on-line." That is, for example, a given RESOURCE may be stored on magnetic media, such as magnetic tape or floppy diskettes, which are kept on storage racks. While the media are located on the racks, they cannot be read by a computer, and are not considered "on-line." To obtain access to the data, the tapes or discs must be loaded onto appropriate drives.
If a RESOURCE takes the form of a physical object, then the RESOURCE is stored in the same manner as others of its type, as in a warehouse.
PROFILEs are collections of information which describe RESOURCEs.
Numerous substitutions and modifications can be undertaken without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. What is desired to be secured by Letters Patent is the invention as defined in the following claims.
1. A system for managing RESOURCEs, comprising:
- (a) multiple SERVERs the SERVERs being grouped into LOCAL SERVERs and REGIONAL SERVERs, wherein:
- (i) one or more PCs are coupled to one or more of the SERVERs;
- (ii) each of the LOCAL SERVERs comprising means for storing RESOURCEs therein;
- (iii) each of the REGIONAL SERVERs comprising means for storing PROFILEs therein, each of the PROFILEs containing descriptive information about one or more of the RESOURCEs stored on the LOCAL SERVERs; and
- (iv) the LOCAL and REGIONAL SERVERs being linked together for electronically transferring PROFILEs and RESOURCEs therebetween;
- (b) means for allowing a PC coupled to a SERVER to view PROFILEs stored in the REGIONAL SERVERs; and
- (c) means for allowing the PC coupled to the SERVER to electronically order delivery of any RESOURCE described in a PROFILE viewed by the PC.
2. A system for storing information, comprising:
- (a) multiple SERVERs serving one or more PCs, the SERVERs being grouped into LOCAL SERVERs and REGIONAL, SERVERs, each of the LOCAL SERVERs comprising means for storing RESOURCEs therein, and each of the REGIONAL SERVERs comprising means for storing PROFILEs about RESOURCEs associated with one or more of the LOCAL SERVERs therein, some of which RESOURCEs take the form of downloadable data, and others of the RESOURCEs take the form of tangible items, wherein the LOCAL and REGIONAL SERVERs are linked together for electronically transferring PROFILEs and RESOURCEs therebetween; and
- (b) means for allowing the user of any PC to:
- (i) examine any PROFILE stored in any of the REGIONAL SERVERs; and
- (ii) order delivery of any RESOURCE listed in said PROFILE from a LOCAL SERVER.
3. A method of managing RESOURCEs, which take the form of downloadable data and physical objects, comprising:
- (a) storing the RESOURCEs on LOCAL SERVERs, wherein the LOCAL SERVERs are placed at different geographic locations;
- (b) storing PROFILEs which contain descriptive information about the RESOURCEs on REGIONAL SERVERs coupled to the LOCAL SERVERs;
- (c) allowing a user, at one location, to view PROFILEs located on REGIONAL SERVERs at other locations via a coupled PC; and
- (d) allowing said user to order delivery of any RESOURCE described on a PROFILE which the user can view from a LOCAL SERVER via a coupled PC.
4. A method according to claim 3, further comprising the step of notifying a transport agent, if the user orders delivery of a physical object.
5. An inventory management system, comprising:
- (a) means for storing RESOURCEs on LOCAL SERVERs at different locations, under the control of respective CUSTODIANs;
- (b) a plurality of REGIONAL SERVERs coupled to the LOCAL SERVERs which store PROFILEs which contain descriptive information about RESOURCEs;
- (c) means for allowing a user of any of said LOCAL SERVERs to obtain access to PROFILEs stored in other REGIONAL SERVERs; and
- (d) means for:
- (i) allowing a user to order delivery of a selected RESOURCE described in a PROFILE accessed in paragraph (c); and in response,
- (ii) notifying the respective CUSTODIAN of the order.
6. A system according to claim 5, in which a new RESOURCE can be added to a LOCAL SERVER at a particular location, and further comprising:
- (e) means for allowing a user of any LOCAL SERVER to add a PROFILE to a REGIONAL SERVER, which PROFILE contains descriptive information of the added RESOURCE.
7. A system according to claim 5, in which:
- (e) the RESOURCEs include both:
- (i) downloadable data;
- (ii) physical objects; and
- (f) the means of paragraph (c) allows a user of any SERVER to obtain access to PROFILEs stored in all other REGIONAL SERVERs, subject to confidentiality rules imposed by Administrators.
8. An inventory management system, comprising:
- (a) means for storing RESOURCEs, which include both downloadable data and physical objects, at different locations, on one or more LOCAL SERVERs under the control of respective CUSTODIANs;
- (b) a plurality of REGIONAL SERVERs coupled to the LOCAL SERVERs which store PROFILEs containing descriptive information about RESOURCEs;
- (c) means for allowing a user of any SERVER to obtain access to PROFILEs stored in any of the REGIONAL SERVERS, subject to confidentiality rules imposed by Administrators, and to retrieve a selected PROFILE, to the exclusion of other PROFILEs; and
- (d) means for:
- (i) allowing a user to order delivery of a selected RESOURCE; and, in response,
- (ii) informing the respective CUSTODIAN of the order, if the RESOURCE is a physical object; and
- (iii) transmitting the RESOURCE by a data link, if the RESOURCE is downloadable data.
|February 12, 1991
|June 7, 1994
|King, Jr. et al.
|August 16, 1994
|Manabe et al.
|August 1991
- Dialog Information Retrieval Service, "Computer Database.TM." File 275 May 1989 pp. 1-4. Dialog Information Retrieval Service "Compendex.RTM. Plus" File 8 Feb. 1988 pp. 1-4. Bozman, "Fax Server Delivers Data Around Globe" Computerworld Aug. 23, 1993 p. 84 (0 and 2 on printout). "Announcing Dialog SourceOne(SM) For Engineering Documents" Dialog Chronolog Jul. 1992 pp. 1-2. Proc. Object Oriented Programming Systems, Languages and Applications Conf., 4-8 Oct. 1987 Orlando USA, pp. 126-137, Caplinger M. et al. `An Information System Based on Distributed Objects`, pp. 126, left col., line 17--128, right col., line 8. Computer, vol. 26, No. 9, Sep. 1993 Long Beach, US, pp. 8-22, Obraczka K. et al. `Internet Resource Discovery Services`, p. 9, col. 11-col. 28. Database Inspec Institute of Electrical Engineers, Stevenage, GB, Inspec No. AN 4560279, abstract & OCLC Systems & Services, vol. 9, No. 3, 1993 USA, pp. 31-36, Smith J. `Electronic ILL at Colorado State University`.
Type: Grant
Filed: Aug 21, 1996
Date of Patent: Dec 16, 1997
Assignee: NCR Corporation (Dayton, OH)
Inventor: David M. Siefert (Englewood, OH)
Primary Examiner: Thomas G. Black
Assistant Examiner: Jack M. Choules
Attorneys: Gregory A. Welte, George H. Gates
Application Number: 8/670,294
International Classification: G06F 1730;


text:
Spring Flowers Save the Date
Spring Flowers Save the Date
The epitome of bright and Springy, this suite will liven up your guests' mailboxes for sure! Perfect for a garden wedding, or outdoor ceremony with a twist on a traditional feel. See below for ordering and pricing information!
Save the Dates include a 5x7 Save the Date and matching envelopes in your color choice. Details cards, envelope liners, Invitations or other pieces can be found in other listings to correspond with your suite.
Pieces are printed on our 120# textured paper, so your guests know from the very beginning that your wedding is going to be a luxury event! Paper comes in bright white standard, but can be switched to soft white or upgraded to double thick 240# paper.
Printing is professional grade, full color digital printing. Please note that colors may vary slightly from your screen and through different paper or printing methods. If you choose to upgrade to foil printing, this will apply only to graphic elements and text (not watercolor elements), which will be shown in your proof. Foil stamping is available in gold, rose gold, silver, copper and silver rainbow holographic.
After ordering, you will receive a form to fill out with your invitation wording and specifics. Design by Laney will send you your proof within 3-5 business days. To stay within our processing timeline, you must respond within 2 business days with any changes or printing approval. You will receive up to 2 proofs at no charge, and any additional proofs will be charged at $35 each. After proof approval has been received, any additional changes will incur reprinting fees as well as any applicable rush fees to keep your production on timeline.
Some customization is available for most suites, including text and envelope colors, at no charge. Feel free to contact us if there is something you do not see here!
Orders will be shipped within 2-3 weeks of your proof approval. Let us know if you have a rush timeline - rush orders may be doable depending on availability, and rush fees may apply.
Calligraphy, printed addressing, and return address stamp pricing can all be found in other listings.
Shipping is a flat rate of $15 for all invitation orders.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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Large patch is the disease we love to hate most in our lawns in late summer and fall. This fungus has been hanging out all summer waiting for thatch temperatures to drop to around 70 degrees. We should be there right now.
Check closely for the active disease. If it's getting started again, apply a fungicide immediately followed by another application in five to six weeks. Products containing triadimefon (Bayleton) work well.
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text:
Phone: (435) 896-6408
TAKE THE REIGNS. Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) makes for a workhorse that drives well at every turn. Fill the adaptable storage, engage 4WD, & drive the best without stretching your wallet.
*Not available in all states. When registering this payment is not refundable. Available for $50 for in-state residents of Delaware and California.
©2019 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. Offers valid in U.S.A. select markets only. The terms and conditions may vary depending on your state and this offer is subject to termination or change at any time without notice. All models may not be available at all dealers. for details. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. Carefully read the operator's guide and safety instructions. Observe applicable laws and regulations. Riding and alcohol/drugs don't mix. See an authorized BRP dealer or a participating riding school and visit canamonroad.com/learntoride. Printed in U.S.A.


text:
10 Best Adventure Games Ever
Once in a while it's nice to take a break from murdering hundreds of thousands of people in first person shooters and use your brain a bit in an adventure game.
Point and click adventure games have long given us the chance to enjoy a well-told story, and it's generally the only genre that has genuinely laugh-out-loud humor.
Here are 10 of the greatest adventure games ever made.
10. The Walking Dead
While Telltale Games' latest has only released two of its planned five episodes, it's safe to say that we've got something special here. In adapting the horror comic to a game they decided to focus on the characters, sticking them in incredibly intense situations. By putting a timer on your actions you're constantly forced to second-guess your decisions, especially since your friends live or die (completely changing up future games!) depending on what you do. The first two entries are brilliant, unlike anything else out there.
9. Blade Runner
Billed as the first real time 3D adventure game, Blade Runner boasted stunning voxel-based graphics and a game world that wouldn't wait for you to figure things out. Taking you back into Ridley Scott's dystopian future in glorious fashion, you control a rookie Blade Runner who's trying to track down a group of replicants – biorobotic beings – who've killed a number of animals. You'll investigate crime scenes, interrogate suspects, and even get into shootouts. Along the way you have the choice of "retiring" all of the replicants and thirteen possible endings await you depending on your actions (or inactions), giving the game an incredible amount of replay value.
8. Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers
Jane Jensen's stunning horror adventure showed the world how the genre could immerse you in a story like no other. You control the titular character, a struggling New Orleanian novelist who's collecting research for a book about voodoo, and finds out that he's got a bit of a family connection to the religion. Voice acting by Mark Hammil, Tim Curry, Leah Remini and Michael Dorn only adds to the quality of this game.
7. Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis
After LucasArts' commercial and critical success with the game adaptation of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, a sequel was planned soon after. Since there were no more films to adapt they decided to make an original story and somehow managed to create one can stand up next to any of the three original Indy films. (That fourth installment doesn't even deserve to be mentioned here. Or anywhere.) Three different games modes allow you to play through the game in completely different ways, one which teams you up with a partner, one that's focused on hard puzzles and the other that's all about the action sequences and fist fights. Worthy of the title and one of the best examples of the genre.
6. Day of the Tentacle
The sequel to Maniac Mansion is even sillier and more fun. You'll control a trio of friends who try to stop an evil, talking purple tentacle (named Purple Tentacle) from taking over the world. Your three characters end up in the mansion in three different times, meaning that your actions with one character will affect the other, leading to some really inventive puzzles. Putting a hamster in the microwave never felt better.
5. Heavy Rain
While point and click adventure games have mostly stuck with the same format since their inception, Quantic Dream has been doing its best to update them for new generations. Their latest and greatest sticks you in a dark and disturbing story that sees four characters hunting down the so-called Origami Killer, a madman who's been murdering people around town. Quick Time Events abound, although failing one won't end your game, instead putting you on a new track towards one of 20 possible endings. A deep, surprisingly emotional experience.
4. The Secret of Monkey Island
Guybrush Threepwood is arguably the greatest protagonist of all time. The mighty pirate is wittier than anyone, he has a manly ponytail, and he can insult sword fight with the best of them. His first adventure sees him facing the ghost pirate LeChuck and being introduced to the love of his life Elaine. It's still the best of the great series, and easily one of the funniest games ever made. The recent special edition of the game offers improved visuals and sound, and demands a place in your library right next to your three-headed monkey.
3. The Longest Journey
Norwegian developer Funcom came out of nowhere with this amazing adventure game. How did they manage to construct such a compelling story? No one knows. The plot, which revolves around an 18-year-old art student who can shift between two different worlds and is the only woman who can save them from destruction, is deceptively simple. The game actually offers up a mature and lengthy story that you'll gladly immerse yourself in. A truly beautiful game in every sense of the word.
2. Broken Sword II: The Smoking Mirror
Challenging puzzles that make sense! It seems easy, but so many adventure games stumble when it comes to this. Not the Broken Sword series. George Stobbart returns from the first game and meets up with his girlfriend after being away from her for six months only to see her being kidnapped by a giant Mayan. You'll head from Paris to Central America to find her, laughing at George's constant one-liners along the way. The recent remastered edition features new artwork and many gameplay improvements, and is available on everything from your computer to your phone.
1. Grim Fandango
Tim Schafer's magnum opus was sadly overlooked at release, which didn't stop it from becoming highly regarded among those who got their hands on it. A Mexican Day of the Dead-inspired noir tale would be remarkable for its unique subject matter alone, but the story of a man's quest for redemption in the afterlife makes for a powerful, memorable experience. Perhaps it's ironic that the only game on this list that features walking, talking skeletons would have the most heart, but the lovable characters and genuinely funny gameplay make for one of the best gaming experiences you'll ever have. Sadly, while most of the older games on this list have been remade and re-released this classic is still yearning for an update.


text:
Nanqi You
Julia Herres
Lead Graphic & Web Designer
Tim Geist
Server Administrator
"Web Weavers did a terrific job designing our website in perfect harmony with our intended brand concept and the functionality we were looking to achieve. They have been a pleasure to work with over the last 5+ years and come highly recommended." Zach Brettler, SYZYGY
"Thank you Walla Walla Web Weavers for our awesome site. The compliments keep rolling in and it's because of your work!! It's not only beautiful it will get us the results we need." Brad Riordan, Robison Ranch Cellars


text:
After you check out David St. john, view out the other Weekly musicians, top MP3 downloads and our list of local bands.
|David St. john's Role in the Band
|About the Band
|Yellow Brick Road
|Bass, Guitar, Mandolin, Vocals
Yellow Brick Road is a Classic Rock band based in Las Vegas, NV, dedicated to the live recreation of legendary music from the 70s-80s era. Formed in the summer of ......more.


text: You might have heard about our new product – iOS Forensic Toolkit. In fact, if you are involved in mobile phone and smartphone forensics, you almost certainly have. In case our previous announcements haven't reached you, iOS Forensic Toolkit is a set of tools designed to perform physical acquisition of iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch devices and decrypt the resulting images. This decryption capability is unique and allows one to obtain a fully usable image of the device's file system with the contents of each and every file decrypted and available for analysis. And the fact is, with today's update, iOS Forensic Toolkit is much more than just that.


text:
A New Mexico city struggling with drought is considering a plan to pay farmers with federal grant money to stop watering crops.
Clovis-area farmers would be paid about $400 an acre to make the switch under a proposed conservation program aimed at changing the way farmers use their water supply, KRQE-TV reports Wednesday.
Farmers would then have to rely on rain and some might have to switch to crops requiring less water.
Frank Blackburn, a farmer in the region who has more than 60 years of farming experience, said the transition would be difficult for many area farmers. But he agreed something must be done.
"We will be out of water or I guess have less water," he said.
The city of Clovis has applied for the grant and is awaiting word on the funding.
Despite recent rainfall, much of New Mexico remains in a moderate to severe drought. There are pockets on in western areas of the state where extreme drought conditions persist, according to the National Drought Mitigation Center.
In Clovis, officials say years of drought and extensive irrigation has nearly depleted the Ogallala Aquifer, the city's only source of drinking water.
Ten years ago, a good well in the area produced about 1,200 gallons of water a minute, officials said.
"Today, if you have a well that's producing 200 gallons per minute you have a good well," Clovis Mayor David Landsford said. "It's a concern, and if we don't conserve the ground water supply that we have today, then we are going to be regretting that decision in the near future."
Genex Releases Ideal Commercial Cow Index
U.S. Milk Output Gains Playing Catch-Up to the Competition's


text:
TJ Design needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 63 designs submitted by 27 freelance designers.
Need a few good logo ideas for a new pub/disco in Slovakia!
??? Need a tagline too
Desired Color Scheme:
Ocean Blues and greens, bold colors
Desired Style:
need serious and animated looking logos
Accepted File Formats:
Standard Web Formats (.jpg, .gif or .png); Vector Formats (.eps, .pdf or .ai); Layered Formats (.psd or .tiff)
I need a few different designs, a serious looking one, a more animated looking one and one of a shark scaring a dolphin...the club used to be called dolphin and I'm renaming it SHARKEY'S!
Thank for your help, email me at email@example.com if you have any questions. The company is just now getting organized, so we may have more work/$$ for this project in the near future.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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SHALLOTTE—Fresh off an overtime win against the defending conference champion, the Brunswick Community College men's basketball team was ripe for a letdown.
But there was no letdown—just another beat-down—when the Dolphins hosted archrival Cape Fear Community College last Wednesday in the West Brunswick High School gym.
Myles Holley and Leon Spencer combined for 33 points and 22 rebounds in the 98-77 victory. It was the eighth win in a row for BCC, which improved to 10-1 in the Carolinas Junior College Conference and 20-2 overall.
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14 U.S. Code § 251 - Selection boards; convening of boards
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§ 251.
Selection boards; convening of boards
At least once a year and at such other times as the needs of the service require, the Secretary shall convene selection boards to recommend for promotion to the next higher grade officers on the active duty promotion list in each grade from lieutenant (junior grade) through captain, with separate boards for each grade. However, the Secretary is not required to convene a board to recommend officers for promotion to a grade when no vacancies exist in the grade concerned, and he estimates that none will occur in the next twelve months.
(Added Pub. L. 88–130, § 1(10)(C), Sept. 24, 1963, 77 Stat. 178.)
LII has no control over and does not endorse any external Internet site that contains links to or references LII.


text:
1. Searching for property
You can search for property by price, by location, by property type i.e. new property, resales and land.
2. Changing the order in which property is displayed
Property is displayed from highest to lowest in price order.
When you are on a page containing a list of property you will see an arrow head in the top right hand corner of the page above where the first price is displayed. See fig. 1 below.
Click this arrow head to change the order in which property is diplayed .i.e. from lowest to highest price.
Figure 1
3. Adding a property to your enquiry
Once on the main details page for a property you will see the add to enquiry button in the top and bottom right of your browser window. See fig. 2 below.
Simply click on either add to enquiry button and the property will be added to your enquiry ready to be sent later.
Figure 2
The page will reload and you will see the Your Enquiry box containing the name of the property you have added appear in the top right hand part of the page. See fig 3 below.
Figure 3
4. The Your Enquiry Box
In the Your Enquiry box, next to the property name you have added you will see a check mark - click on this to remove it from Your Enquiry. See fig. 4 below.
Figure 4
5. Adding more property to Your Enquiry
Once you have added a property to Your Enquiry you can continue browsing the Phuket Ocean Villas web site and the Your Enquiry box will appear on each page you visit in the same part of the page. See fig. 5 below.
Figure 5
If you wish to add more property to Your Enquiry before you send it, simply go to the main details page for the property you want to add and click the Add to Enquiry button. The property will then be added to Your Enquiry. See fig 6 below.
Figure 6
You can add as many properties as necesaary to Your Enquiry, there is no limit.
6. Sending an Enquiry
When you are ready to send your enquiry simply click the Send button in the Your Enquiry box and you will be sent to the Contact us page. See fig. 7 below.
Figure 7
On this page the Your Enquiry box will appear next to the Additional properties/questions field. See fig. 8 below.
Figure 8
Simply fill out the rest of the information needed in the enquiry form and click the submit button.
That´s it!
N.B. You cannot delete any properties from the Your Enquiry box when you are on the contact us page of the site.
To delete property from the Your Enquiry box simply go to any other page on the Phuket Ocean Villa website and you will see the check marks reappear next to each property in your enquiry - simply click the one next to the property you wish to delete from Your Enquiry, click send and return to the contact us page.


text:
Crusincoy city is located at Chimaltenango State, Guatemala. Crusincoy Latitude is 14.81667 and Longitude is -90.95000 .Crusincoy manufactures suppliers, exporters, and sellers, can able to post their products and services to targeting the buyers and importers worldwide. Crusincoy buyers and importers can able to post their buying needs and requirements to get quotations from local worldwide.
Suppliers in this category will be available soon once our customer update!!