WO2001042872A2

WO2001042872A2 - System and method for providing communication services with reference to a volume in space

Info

Publication number: WO2001042872A2
Application number: PCT/US2000/031592
Authority: WO
Inventors: Suzanne K. Rajchel; Michael G. Ressl
Original assignee: Vantageport, Inc.
Priority date: 1999-11-16
Filing date: 2000-11-16
Publication date: 2001-06-14
Also published as: AU3072801A; WO2001042872A3

Abstract

A method and system for associating an object or volume in space with one or more communication services is provided. An object (16) in space is identified with unique object-identifying coordinates. These coordinates are compared with a database of object-identifying coordinates that correspond to unique identifiers, such as web site URLs (70) or phone numbers (84). At least one identifier corresponding to the object-identifying coordinates is selected. Once the identifier is selected, data may be downloaded relating to the object identified by the object-identifying coordinates and communications or transactions services (5) may be accessed that relate to the object identified. This data may be downloaded and these services may be accessed with minimal or no intervention from a mobile user (20) once the system has identified the object-identifying coordinates of the object.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING

COMMUNICATION SERVICES WITH REFERENCE

TO A VOLUME IN SPACE

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/441 ,31 1 entitled "System and Method for Associating an Object With A World Wide Web (WWW) Site", filed November 16, 1999 (Attorney Docket No. 7230/5), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, and which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/108,474 entitled "Apparatus, System and Method for Obtaining World Wide Web (WWW) Data with Reference to a Volume (Object) in Space," filed November 16, 1998, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention pertains to providing services, such as those available on the World Wide Web (WWW), to the user of a computing device. Specifically, the invention provides services to the user based on the selection by the user of an object or volume in space (VIS) rather than by other common methods currently in use. The present invention makes communication and transaction services available to the user based on unique identifying data, such as location coordinates, of the object selected by the user. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention addresses the many limitations placed on users by current mechanisms for certain WWW- and internet-related "actions" (such as bookmarking, emailing or forwarding messages, initiating real-time connections, sending messages to paging devices, performing electronic commerce transactions, etc.). Such limitations include those posed by stationary computers, graphical displays of stationary or portable computing platforms, and portable or mobile Global Positioning Systems (GPS).

One limitation currently facing users of the WWW is the linkage of the user interface to the display of the computing device (laptop, handheld computer, mobile phone, etc.) In other words, the user is required to manually select data from the display or input data directly to the computing device via a mouse or other input device (e.g. flywheel, touch screen, stylus, or keyboard). The user typically "points" to an icon or text on the display of the computing device by using the input device (pointing with the mouse, typing an input command, tapping with the stylus, etc.). The user then "selects" the icon or text, which is linked to a WWW site, causing information to be exchanged over the Internet and the WWW data (a "page") linked to the icon/text to be displayed on the user computing device, usually through a browser program.

This input method may be acceptable for users who are seated at a computer or in a position to devote full attention (eyes and mind) to the computer's display and input mechanism. However, users who are mobile (on foot or in a vehicle) cannot always devote full attention to a display and to providing input data through conventional means.

Furthermore, the mobile user may be interested in different types of Internet, WWW, or location-based capabilities and information than a stationary user. For instance, the mobile user may have an interest in downloading information or performing Internet-related actions specific to their location, or to an object or volume-in-space (VIS) proximate to their location. The mobile user may be interested in accessing and storing information at one location (for example, while in the car or while a pedestrian) that may later be retrieved (for example, from home).

Mobile users (or more generally, users who are inconvenienced by conventional computers and/or input mechanisms) may desire unique means of initiating the aforementioned "actions" on their computing devices. Such means would neither require that full attention be devoted to a display or keypad, nor would they restrict the user to selecting data provided by (or accepted by) the display. These means would be more automated and simpler to use than the traditional computer or cellular phone interface. Such means would be easier to use that traditional GPS interfaces, and would allow for actions to be performed based not on the user location (as in GPS), but based on a unique object or VIS proximate the user location. Finally, such means would flexibly allow them to initiate the "actions" from their own computing devices but have a communications system automatically and appropriately interact with other computing devices and storage systems located remote from the user.

Generally, a web site is identified by a web identifier such as, for example, a Uniform Resource Locator or URL. Currently, a user selects a URL by (1 ) selecting "hyperlinks" that are visually displayed by the computing device (by "pointing and clicking"); or, by (2) manually typing in a URL address. These current methods do not provide ease of use in the context of a mobile or portable user of a computing/communications device, especially if this device is small (e.g. a handheld or laptop device). Means for obtaining information related to an object in space are also currently limited. Means for initiating services, such as e-mail, instant communication, transaction, or paging services, related to an object in space are also limited.

Identification systems have been used in packaging where an identifying number has been encoded in a chip. The unit is energized by a magnetic or radio-frequency field and then responds electronically or vice-versa. Maximum working distance for this technology is about one meter. Railroads have used bar code technology to remotely identify rail cars but this technique is defeated as the cars become dirty. That technique is also limited to about ten meters.

Range-finders are commonly used to determine distance in conjunction with compass readings and GPS position in order to determine position, for example in surveying applications. Existing range-finders, however, are not used to determine or access the information available to the user via the world-wide web.

GPS systems are routinely used in vehicle positioning systems; e.g. Cadillac offers an optional system to locate your car relative to maps in an onboard computer device. However, GPS as implemented determines the position of the vehicle, not an object or volume in space proximate the vehicle. Furthermore, current implementations of the system do not allow WWW access based on either the vehicle position or a VIS proximate the vehicle.

It would therefore be desirable to provide a system for accurately determining the address, location, or identification of various objects in space.

It would further be desirable to provide a system for associating an object or volume in space with a variety of communication and/or transaction services.

It would further be desirable to provide these communications and transaction services in an automated and dynamic fashion.

It would further be desirable to provide a system that can initiate communication and/or transaction services associated with a given object or volume in space.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of one embodiment of a communication system in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of another embodiment of a communication system in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 3 shows a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a pointing device system that may be used in the communication systems of FIGS. 1 and 2,

FIG. 4 is a side view of one embodiment of the pointing device system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the pointing device system of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a side view of another embodiment of the pointing device system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is a side view of another embodiment of the pointing device system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the pointing device system of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a diagram of the detection volume of the pointing device system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for using a pointing device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart that illustrates another embodiment of a method for using a pointing device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart that illustrates another embodiment of a method for using a pointing device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for interacting with an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a flow chart that illustrates another embodiment of a method for interacting with an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for accessing a communication service in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 16 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for creating a bookmark in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention,

FIG. 17 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for accessing an e-mail system in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for initiating a real-time connection in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for accessing a paging system in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 20 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method for performing an electronic commerce transaction in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to FIG.1 , one embodiment of a communication system in accordance with the present invention is shown generally at 100 This embodiment expands upon and increases the utility and functionality of the system described in U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/089,382 (filed June 15, 1998), now U.S Application No. 09/332,609, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The communication system 100 of FIG. 1 includes a pointing device 10 Such a pointing device may be, for example, a laser pointer, a bar code scanner or a range-finder Pointing device 10 may have range-finding capabilities or may be any suitable device, for example, a device such as those illustrated in FIGS. 3 through 8 Pointing device 10 may be used to select an object or volume in space Additionally, device 10 may be used to measure or to retrieve unique characteristics of an object or volume in space. Such characteristics may include, for example, location coordinates of the object; alphanumerical identifiers; numerical identifiers; and graphical identifiers, such as, for example, bar codes. The form of device 10 may be a standalone handheld device. Alternatively, device 10 may be mounted in, for example, a vehicle, or may be attached to or incorporated in another device, for example user computer or communication device, or may be any suitable form.

In one embodiment, VIS pointing device 10 determines the position of an object VIS (object) 16 relative to the user by means of angular direction and range-finding. VIS pointing and measurement device 10 may include an interrogating device (ID) 12 interacting with an object-mounted unit (MU) 14. The MU 14 may be encoded with a distinct identifier, and placed beforehand on the object 16 to be identified. The MU 14 may be a passive unit that is then interrogated by the interrogating device 12. The MU 14 may transfer its encoded information to the interrogating device 12 via reflected energy.

MU 14 may be, for example, an identification system such as one used in packaging where an identifying number has been encoded in a chip or label. In such an identification system, the MU 14 is generally energized by a magnetic or RF field and then responds electronically. Alternatively the MU 14 of such a system may be electronically energized and its response may then be energized by a magnetic or RF field. Currently, maximum working distance for such a system is about 1 meter. In one embodiment, the device employing a passive MU 14 to be mounted on the object 16 as described above will operate over a much greater distance than the examples described above. Additionally, since the object 16 to which the passive MU 14 is mounted does not have to be stationary, it can also be used for tracking of mobile units.

Alternatively, the MU 14 may be an active device with computing and transmitting capability of its own. The MU 14 may communicate with the interrogating device 12 via a predetermined communication protocol. The MU 14 may receive a request from the interrogating device 12 to transmit a unique identifier that identifies the MU 14. The MU 14 would respond by sending the unique identifier to the interrogating device 12 via any acceptable wireless protocol or modulation method. An example of such a protocol that is currently under discussion by standards bodies is called "Bluetooth."

In either case the interrogated MU 14 provides the system 100 with a VIS identification code. System 100 may then correlate the code to a VIS-specific WWW URL or other identifier (if one exists). Alternatively, the MU 14 provides the system 100 directly with a VIS-specific WWW URL, which, in this case, may be equivalent to an identification code.

In one embodiment, such as the case where the VIS identification code provided is the relative angle and distance of the VIS to the user, this information from the MU 14 or object 16 may then be combined with the position of the user, as determined by GPS or other means, to derive the absolute position of the VIS 16 relative to an appropriate reference coordinate system. Given the absolute position of the VIS 16 as input, the system 100 may then reference the determined position of the VIS 16 with a VIS-specific URL (if one exists) or other WWW identifier and download the WWW data from that site to an Internet- enabled user computer/communications device, which may be located proximate the user or remote from the user.

VIS pointing device 10 may include an optical or RF range-finding component 13, which is integrated with inclination/declination determination capability. VIS pointing device 10 also may include an apparatus for determining the location coordinates of the user. In one embodiment, this apparatus is a GPS receiver 18. The GPS receiver 18 may be attached to or incorporated in communication device 20. Alternatively, the apparatus may be separate from the VIS pointing device 10, for example when user location coordinates are provided by a cellular location-finding sen/ice. Additionally, VIS pointing device 10 may include an apparatus for scanning bar code data. A communication device 20 may be incorporated into or attached to device 10. This device may be, for example, a computing device. This device may also be Internet-enabled. The communication device 20 may be, for example, a PDA (personal digital assistant), hand-held computer, a "smart phone," a laptop or desktop computer, a wireless or wireline communications network interface, a modem, or the like. VIS pointing device 10 attached to or incorporating communication device 20 is then connected to, for example, an Internet service provider 50 (including, for example, a private remote access network, or a corporate Intranet) via a communication network 40. The Internet service provider 50 allows an Internet user to access the Internet 60 for the purposes of WWW browsing, email, chat, etc. The Internet service provider 50 offers such services to multiple users, as shown at 42. Therefore, multiple users may use the principles of this invention for VIS-to-lnternet access and WWW browsing. In the present embodiment, the user is enabled to download information from a unique web host computer based on VIS identification code and other optional secondary data. The user may, for example, use Internet service provider 50 to access the host computer 70 operating any given web site. The web site hosting computer may be any communication device that provides a web site to be accessed.

Communication devices may also be incorporated to system 100 via communication network 40. For example, a computer or telephony device 44 may be connected to network 40. A mobile communication device 45 may also be connected to network 40. Alternatively, a paging device 46 may be connected to network 40. As shown in the case of paging device 46, an additional network may also be connected to network 40. For example, paging device 46 is connected to network 40 by an additional paging network 47. The VIS pointing device 10 is capable of identifying and/or locating a VIS. Once this VIS has been identified, translation subsystem 80 can be queried regarding that VIS, based on unique object-identifying information, which may be, for example, the identified location of the object. In a first embodiment, translation subsystem 80 may then automatically connect the user with a VIS- specific WWW URL or other unique identifier by requesting that data stored on the web site host computer 70 corresponding to the URL be sent directly to the computer of the user 20. This can be accomplished without user intervention or knowledge other than the selection of the VIS, and without intervention by the user computer 20. The WWW information is automatically downloaded and relayed to the user computing/communication device 20 with or without any additional awareness or intervention of the user.

In a second embodiment, the translation subsystem 80 can then provide pertinent databased information to the user based on the VIS identification code, in a convenient manner consistent with accepted standards. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the information may be a set of pre-determined WWW identifiers (such as URLs). The database of information may thus include, for example, VIS coordinates that identify the object corresponding to the set of WWW identifiers. The translation subsystem 80 determines the unique WWW URL or other identifier (if one exists) associated with the VIS and transmits the WWW identifier (URL) back to the user computing/communication device 20. Once the user computer 20 receives the appropriate URL, it can retrieve and display the WWW data represented by the URL using any standard or acceptable method, such as WWW browser application software. The WWW information is automatically downloaded and relayed to the user computing/communication device 20 with or without any additional awareness or intervention of the user. In a third embodiment, the user computer 20 directly communicates with a web site host computer 70 to access data corresponding to a VIS-specific URL directly derived from encoded information at MU 14.

In yet another embodiment, the translation subsystem 80 enables the user computer 20 to initiate access to a variety of communication and transaction services. For example, the user may communicate with a bookmark storage computer system 81. System 100 may also communicate with an e-mail storage and distribution computer system 82. System 100 may also communicate with a telephony call processing and directory computer system 84, which may be associate with, for example, a circuit-switched or packet- switched telephony network, a wireless or wireline network, a public or private network, an internet, etc. System 100 may also communicate with a paging gateway computer system 86, which could be associated with a traditional paging network or with a cellular "short message system (SMS)." System 100 may also communicate with an electronic commerce transaction computer system 88.

In all the aforementioned embodiments, the translation subsystem 80 may use other pertinent data along with the VIS identification code to determine the URL or to distinguish between multiple URLs associated with a particular VIS. The WWW unique identifier may also be chosen based on secondary data known to the system 100 along with the coordinates of object 16 or unique identifying information.

The methods of displaying the WWW data represented by the URL can be any standard or acceptable method, including: a visual display and browser program for graphical data, an audio playback mechanism for sound, a video display for video data, or similar output mechanism for any other type of data provided by the WWW. In one embodiment of system 100, no intervention or modification of typical or existing web site information is required. The creation, maintenance, content and control of the WWW information may be (but does not necessarily have to be) performed by a third party. System 100 allows mobile/portable users to select an object 16 and thereby gain automatic access to pertinent WWW sites, communications services, or transaction services. By using VIS pointing device 10 to "point" to the object 16, the user selects object 16 as an input parameter to the system 100. System 100 also provides a means for identifying a unique piece of identifying information about the object 16, which may be, for example, its absolute coordinates in space or other unique identifier. System 100 also provides a means to determine, based on the unique identifying information of the object 16, for example: a WWW URL (or similar unique WWW identifier) related to the object 16, if such a WWW identifier exists; a communications endpoint identifier, such as a phone number, internet address, email handle, paging device identifier, etc.; or, a product identification code that could be used in an e-commerce transaction.

Furthermore, the system 100 automatically identifies the appropriate URL or other WWW identifier, with or without the awareness or intervention of the user, and provides a means of communicating through the Internet 60 to automatically download WWW information based on the WWW identifier determined by the system 100.

System 100 is easily interfaced with general-purpose computing systems, and optionally communications networks. System 100 easily facilitates the retrieval of pertinent VIS location information from databases, wherever they are stored, searches those databases and provides the user with an interface to input the desired search terms and output the results of that search to the user as the desired VIS location information. System 100 may also easily be interfaced with wireless communication or positioning systems, such as fixed or mobile communications networks and GPS systems. System 100 may be used, for example, to determine VIS location information for a selected target from the user's observation platform. System 100 may also be used to initiate, conduct and complete communication and/or transaction sessions such as those described in detail below. "VIS location information" as used herein in connection with the description of the embodiments of the invention that are described below may include any information that relates to an identified VIS or target therein. This may include, for instance, any useful information about or related to the target. As an example, if the target is a restaurant, "VIS location information" relating to the target may include the name of the restaurant, a menu, hours of operation, and a phone number for reservations. It may also include advertisements about the target or other businesses that may be of interest to the user that interrogates the target. It may even be a specific product offer that the user may wish to automatically purchase, such as a menu item.

System 100 may extract information for the VIS occupied by a selected target from data received from or proximate the selected target that is independent of the VIS occupied by the user's observation platform or by combining data received from or proximate a selected target with data corresponding to the VIS occupied by the user's observation platform.

FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of a communication system 200. System 200 may derive information about the identity or location of the VIS occupied by a selected target independently of any information relating to the VIS occupied by the user's observation platform.

End user 202 is shown within a user observation platform 204. The platform 204 occupies a first VIS 206. End user 202 selects a target 208, such as, for example a building, that occupies a second VIS 214. The user observation platform 204, the target 208, or both, may be stationary or moving relative to each other or to an independent reference platform 207. End user 202 interrogates a wireless signal source such as a building-mounted unit or mounted unit (MU) transponder 212 located on or proximate the target 208 within the second VIS 214. Interrogation of the transponder 212 by the user 202 may be accomplished with a wireless interrogator unit 210 that is placed with or proximate the user 202 within the first VIS 206. The user 202 triggers the interrogator 210 to send a wireless interrogation signal to the transponder 212 along a signal path 216. The transponder 212 responds to the receipt of the interrogation signal with a wireless response signal sent back to the interrogator 210 along a signal path 218 that includes data associated with the second VIS 214. The wireless interrogator unit 210 incorporates a receiver that can decode the response signal from transponder 212.

Transponder 212 may be a passive-type transponder, which does not require any power source to activate it. Transponder 212 may be, for example, a wavelength-selective reflecting type of transponder that selectively reflects pre-determined wavelengths of wireless signals of the optical, radio frequency, or ultra-sonic type. The pre-determined wavelengths that are reflected are then conveniently associated with the data associated with the second VIS 214. Thus, if the interrogator 210 sends an interrogation signal to the transponder 212 along the path 216 that comprises a broadband wireless signal, such as a beam of light, the response signal that the transponder 212 returns to the interrogator 210 along the path 218 will typically comprise a combination of discrete wavelengths that represent data corresponding to the second VIS 214. The data in the response signal returned to the interrogator 210 may then be analyzed and associated with VIS location information by a data processing system 220 to extract VIS location information corresponding to the second VIS 214. The data processing system 220 may have one or more of its components incorporated into observation platform 204. Alternatively, the data processing system 220 may have one or more of its components remote from the observation platform 204.

The transponder 212 may also be of the passive wavelength-selective cavity type, wherein the transponder 212 comprises one or more cavities or voids that resonate at pre-determined wavelengths of wireless signals of the optical, radio frequency, or ultra-sonic type. In this case, the pre-determined wavelengths that resonate in the cavities of the transponder 212 are then conveniently associated with the data associated with the second VIS 214. The response signal in this case will continue to radiate after the interrogation signal terminates because of the resonant cavities. Thus, if the interrogator 210 sends an interrogation signal to the transponder 212 along the path 216 that comprises a broadband wireless signal, such as a radio frequency beam, the response signal that the transponder 212 returns to the interrogator 210 along the path 218 will typically comprise a combination of discrete wavelengths that represents data corresponding to the second VIS 214 that may be monitored even after the interrogation signal ceases. This can prevent any "swamping out" of the response signal by the much stronger interrogation signal in the first VIS 206 where the observation platform 204 of the user 202 is located. The data in the response signal returned to the interrogator 210 may then be analyzed and associated with VIS location information to extract VIS location information corresponding to the second VIS 214 in the same way.

Another suitable passive transponder 212 may utilize wavelength- selective optically responsive materials that are excited to fluorescence by an optical interrogation signal from the interrogator 210. In this case, the response signal that the transponder 212 returns to the interrogator 210 along the path 218 may typically comprise a combination of discrete wavelengths of fluorescence that represents data corresponding to the second VIS 214 that may be monitored even after the interrogation signal ceases, since the materials will continue to fluoresce. As with the case of a passive transponder 212 that uses cavities, this fluorescent transponder 212 provides a response signal that is more resistant to being "swamped out." Once again, the data in the response signal returned to the interrogator 210 is may then be analyzed and associated with VIS location information to extract VIS location information corresponding to the second VIS 214.

Alternatively, transponder 212 may be of the active type, wherein it may generate its own response signal without utilizing the energy of the interrogation signal. Such a transponder then requires its own source of power to remain operational.

System 200 may also extract location information for the VIS occupied by a selected target from data received from or proximate the selected target. System 200 may accomplish this by combining data received from or proximate a selected target with data corresponding to the location of the VIS occupied by the user's observation platform. In this case, system 200 comprises a local positioning sensor 222 that is placed with or proximate the user 202 on the observation platform 204 that occupies the first VIS 206. The local positioning sensor 222 may comprise a GPS receiver or a specialized dedicated RF positioning system that uses dedicated or existing wireless communication towers, such as are used for mobile communication and wireless "cellular" or "personal communication system (PCS)" telephone applications. The local positioning sensor 222 determines the position of the first VIS 206, which is occupied by the observation platform 204 of end user 202. The sensor 222 may also establish a North-South axis on a horizontal plane of the observation platform 204 from which to relate the position of the second VIS 214 occupied by target 208 occupies. Sensor 222 may also relate this axis to the elevation of the observation platform 204, and even the velocity of the observation platform 204 if it is moving. System 200 may also comprise a directional indicator 224, such as a compass linked to the local positioning sensor 222 or a magnetic compass, to indicate the relative direction of the second VIS 214 from the first VIS 206. System 200 may also include a tilt indicator 226, such as a spirit level, to indicate the inclination of the second VIS 214 relative to the first VIS 206. For example, end user 202 may aim the interrogator 210 at a target 208. The directional indicator 224 may be coupled to the interrogator 210. Indicator 224 and interrogator 210 may be used in conjunction to determine the horizontal coordinates of the target 208. Tilt indicator 226 may also be coupled to the interrogator 210 to determine the inclination of the target 208 relative to the user 202.

The period required for the response signal 218 from the transponder 212 to be intercepted by the interrogator 210 after the interrogator 210 sends out the interrogation signal may be used to determine the distance between the user 202 and the target 208. Together, the interrogator 210, the directional indicator 224 and, optionally, the tilt indicator 226 may serve as a relative target-finding system. For example, interrogator 210 may act as a range-finder. The measured distance of the target 208 from the user 202, the relative horizontal coordinates of the target 208 relative to the user 202 measured by the directional indicator 224, the angle of inclination of the target 208 relative to the user 202 as measured by the optional tilt indicator 226 and the determined position of the user 202 may all be analyzed and associated with VIS location information by a VIS data processing system 220 to determine the position of the second VIS 214 occupied by target 208.

Alternatively, the relative target-finding system may comprise only the interrogator 210 and the directional indicator 224. This may be the case if, for example, the inclination of the target 208 relative to the observation platform 204 is of no significance. The relative target-finding system may also comprise directional indicator 224 alone if the distance of the target 208 from the observation platform 204 is of no importance. The data processing system 220 may have one or more of its components incorporated into observation platform 204. Alternatively, the data processing system 220 may have one or more of its components remote from the observation platform 204.

System 200 may also allow end user 202 to have an auxiliary means for accurately using interrogator 210 to select the target 208 from observation platform 204, particularly when the interrogation beam is not of the optical type. This auxiliary means for selecting the target 208 (not shown) may be in the form of an auxiliary beam of light, such as from a collimated laser source or light- emitting diode, or an optical finder telescope, either of which may be affixed to the interrogator 210.

System 200 may be a stand-alone system or may be integrated with other systems, an example of which is described above and in FIG. 1. Other examples of equipment with which systems 100 and 200 may be integrated include: laptop and general-purpose computers, hand-held computing devices, mobile telephones, portable scanning devices, vehicle-mounted computing systems, and remote control devices. Systems 100, 200 identify, locate, or both identify and locate a selected VIS and allow a database of stored information regarding the selected VIS to be queried, either locally or remotely, based on the identification or location of the selected VIS. The selected VIS need not be fixed in its location over time, nor does the database have to reside in a fixed location.

The VIS data processing system 220 that is used to analyze and associate stored VIS location information with measured data may be integrated on the observation platform 204 along with the other components, or be segregated away from the other components on the observation platform 204. For example, measured data from the interrogator 210 may be transferred through a communication interface 228 along a signal path 230 to a data processor 232, such as a central processing unit (CPU). Alternatively, measured data from the combination of interrogator 210, local position sensor 222, the direction indicator 224 and the inclination sensor 226, may be transferred through a communication interface 228 along a signal path 230 to a data processor 232, such as a central processing unit (CPU). VIS location information may be stored in a local information storage database 234, such as electronic read-only memory (ROM) or a magnetic disc storage system, that is coupled to the data processor 232 along a signal path 236. The data processor 232 may be used to analyze the transferred data and associate the transferred data with the stored data to generate VIS location information. This location information may be fed through a signal path 238 to a display, user interface 240, or other output means.

Alternatively, at least a portion of a VIS data processing system 220 may be segregated away from the observation platform 204.

Remote VIS location information, for example user position information from a cellular positioning system, may be stored in a remote information storage database 250, such as at least one networked database server. This server may be coupled through a signal path 252 to the remote data processor 248. The remote data processor 248 may be used to analyze the transferred data fed from the interface 228 and associate it with the stored data from the remote database 250. The transferred data may also be associated with additional VIS data received from information sources such as GPS satellites. This additional data may be transmitted through signal paths to an optional satellite interface that is also coupled to the remote data processor through a signal path and may generate VIS location information. This VIS location information may then be fed back to the data processor 248 through the interface 228 and communication interface to generate user VIS location information that corresponds to the selected VIS. Additional VIS location information may be also be stored in a local information storage database 234, such as electronic read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), or a magnetic or optical disc storage system, that is coupled to the data processor through a signal path 236. In this case, the data processor 232 may be used to analyze the transferred data and associate it with the both the local and remotely stored data to generate VIS location information that is fed to a display or user interface 240. In this way, local storage and computer apparatus may combine with remote information storage and computer apparatus, with any necessary handshaking and information exchange occurring through the communication channels.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a pointing device system 300 that may be used in communication systems 100, 200 described above. This pointing device system 300 may be attached to or may incorporate one or more of the components of the systems 100, 200 such as, for example: a communication device, a translation subsystem, a modem, a communication network, a GPS receiver, a computer processing system, etc.

As seen in FIG. 3, pointing system 300 comprises a manual control subsystem 310, an optional data processing subsystem 320, an interrogation beam control subsystem (aiming subsystem) 330, and communications interfaces 340, 350. Data processing subsystem may be attached to or may incorporate manual control subsystem 310 and/or interrogation beam control subsystem 330.

Pointing system 300 may further comprise trigger mechanism 380. Trigger mechanism 380 allows the user to initiate an interrogation signal to a selected target. Once the aiming/interrogation beam is accurately positioned on target 208, the user may manipulated the trigger mechanism 380 to commence interrogation signal 216. The trigger 380 may directly perform this initiation through an electrical coupling 370, which may comprise, for example, a wire or a printed circuit board trace. Alternatively, input from trigger 380 may be detected at data processing subsystem 320 via interface 340. Interrogation signal 216 may then be initiated via interface 350. Displacement Element 382 may be physically manipulated by a user, effecting some displacement from a reference position in three-dimensional space. Such a displacement element may be, for example, a handle, a joystick, a trackball, or a mouse.

In one embodiment, this displacement may be detected by displacement detector 384 and transmitted, via communications interface 340, using any standard communications protocol which may utilize wired or wireless transmission (for example RS-232, USB, "Bluetooth", etc.), to data processing subsystem 320. Displacement detector may be any suitable sensor, such as for example, an optical sensor.

Data processing subsystem 320 then uses the manual displacement to calculate, using a pre-defined mathematical transformation, a second displacement in three-dimensional space relative to a reference position, of an aiming/interrogation beam incorporated into interrogation beam control subsystem 330. Data processing subsystem 320 then effects the second displacement by transmitting a set of commands, using a standard communications protocol (for example RS-232, USB, "Bluetooth", etc.) to interrogation beam control subsystem 320 via communications interface 350. Subsystem 330 receives and decodes the commands and automatically effects the second displacement, for example through an electromechanical servo- control mechanism, by re-positioning the aiming/interrogation beam in three- dimensional space relative to the reference position. In another embodiment, manual control subsystem 310 may directly control interrogation beam aiming subsystem 330 via mechanical coupling 360, wherein a manually created displacement in subsystem 310 mechanically effects a corresponding displacement in subsystem 330. FIG. 4 describes one embodiment of a pointing device 400 in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, manual control subsystem 410 includes a handle 482, which may serve as the displacement element. Subsystem 410 further comprises trigger mechanism 480, which may be any appropπate electromechanical device for activating a trigger pulse, for example a push button, switch, gun-like trigger, etc. Device 400 may further include an interrogation beam control subsystem 430 such as described above. These elements may be contained within a housing 415. Device 400 may further include an interrogation beam transceiver 432. This transceiver may transmit an interrogation beam (such as that shown at 434) along a beam path such as that shown at 436. The volume or object in space 416 to be interrogated may be found along this beam path 436. The transceiver 432 may also receive and decode a response signal from the object.

In device 400, electrical coupling 470 may be, for example, a wire or a printed circuit board trace.

In device 400, mechanical coupling 460 may be, for example, shafts driven by gear or stepper motors. Mechanical coupling 460 may also be rivets, screws, nuts or adhesives. Other suitable mechanical connections may be used to attach a housing for subsystem 410 to a housing for subsystem 430.

A communication interface 490 may serve to connect the pointing device 400 to communication device 20. The interface 490 may connect devices utilizing wireless or wired transmission of data in any format, protocol or method appropriate to the particular computing hardware and software incorporated in communications device 20. In this case manual control subsystem 410 may incorporate any necessary integrated circuit interface controller that generates the appropriate communication signals to device 20. Subsystems 410, 420, 430 may incorporate their own power sources or may derive power from external sources. Communication interface 490 may be in communication with manual control subsystem 410, interrogation beam control subsystem 430 or both subsystems. Communication interface 490 may be connected to either or both of subsystems 410, 430 in any suitable manner such as, for example, via the couplings described above.

FIG. 5 shows a top view of the device 400 of FIG. 4. Elements marked with like reference numerals are provided for purposes of orientation. In one embodiment of device 400, the handle 482 may be rotated in the horizontal plane by an angle Θ1. Aiming beam may be simultaneously rotated by an angle Θ2. In this case

Θ2 = -( Θ1)

Alternatively, handle 482 may be similarly rotated in any other plane. Once the aiming beam is located on the selected target, trigger 480 may be manipulated to initiate an interrogation signal along beam path 484 to target 416.

FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a pointing device 600 in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, manual control subsystem 610 comprises a joystick-type handle 682, which may serve as the displacement element. Handle 682 may be coupled to a displacement sphere 683 for ease of maneuverability. Handle 682 and/or sphere 683 may further be connected with a housing 615 and a trigger mechanism 680 comprised of any appropriate electromechanical device for activating a trigger pulse, for example a push button, switch, gun-like trigger, etc. Manual control subsystem 610 may further include a displacement detector 684, and a communications interface 640. The interface 640 may connect subsystem 610 to an appropriate data processing system 620. Interrogation beam control subsystem 630 may comprise a second housing 635 attached to an aiming beam transceiver 632 and an electromechanical servo-control mechanism 634, along with a second communications interface 650. Subsystems 610, 620, 630 may incorporate their own power sources or may derive power from external sources. These subsystems may also incorporate any required integrated circuit interface controllers to generate the appropriate communication signals along 640, 650 as well as to perform other required functions such as displacement detection, trigger detection, interrogation beam initiation, pulse measurement, etc.

In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the handle 682 may be rotated in any direction from its reference axis by some angle Θ1. The displacement is detected and sent to the data processing system, which calculates a beam displacement given the measured displacement as input. The data processing system uses this new displacement to control an electromechanical servo mechanism 634 to direct the aiming beam to the desired new position.

Aiming beam 632 may rotate from the axis by an angle Θ2, determined by a mathematical function γ of the first angle

Θ2 = γ (θ1)

Alternatively, the handle 682 and beam 632 may be similarly displaced in any other plane.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show side and top views of another embodiment of a pointing device in accordance with the present invention. Like elements in FIGS. 7 and 8 are numbered with like reference numerals for purposes of orientation.

In this embodiment, the housing 715 of manual control subsystem 710 may be attached to an articulated arm 770.

Housing 715 may incorporate or be attached to components of systems 100, 200 such as, for example: a communication device, a translation subsystem, a modem, and a GPS receiver, etc. In one embodiment, housing 715 may also incorporate a power source.

Subsystem 710 may also include a rotating mechanism 775, such as a rotating drum. Arm 770 may be attached to housing 715 via a rotating mechanism 775, such as a drum or sphere. Mechanism 775, in the case where the rotating mechanism is a drum, allows the signal emitted by arm 770 to sweep out, for example, a circular area with housing 715 at its center. For example, mechanism 775, by rotating in the direction indicated at 777 may sweep arm 770 in a circle around housing 715. ln another embodiment, arm 770 may also be mounted to housing 715 or mechanism 775 in a manner that allows it to be moveable at point 781. In this embodiment, arm 770 is able to sweep out a hemispherical, dome-like surface. In one embodiment, a mechanical apparatus similar to that used in gun turrets may be used to move the arm 770.

In another embodiment, articulated arm 770 may be moveable at one or more joints. One such joint is shown at 779. In an embodiment where the arm is jointed at only one joint, the arm may be rotated to emit a signal above housing 715. The arm may also be rotated to emit a signal below housing 715. This enables the emitted beam to sweep out in a full spherical space.

Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the arm may be made moveable at a number of joints and thereby, may be made infinitely moveable to sweep or simply to direct its emitted signal at any desired angle.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of an area detected by a pointing device in accordance with the present invention. Device 910 may be any suitable pointing device such as the pointing device systems described above. Device 910 may incorporate or be attached to components of systems 100, 200 such as, for example: a communication device, a translation subsystem, a modem, a GPS receiver, and a data processing system, etc.

Device 910 may move through space in any direction such as, for example, the direction indicated at 921. For example, the direction of device 910 may be parallel to the surface 931 upon which device 910 is moving. This surface may be, for example, the ground underneath a vehicle. Depending on the moveability of device 910, a detection area or volume 941 is created. In the case of a device with an articulated arm as described above, the detection area may be substantially cylindrical in shape, as shown in FIG. 9. The detection volume could also be substantially spherical in shape, or any other shape as determined by device 910. Device 910 may be capable of detecting any object (volume) in space that is within the detection volume 941, such as the objects indicated by triangles (at 951 ). Device 910 may also be capable of detecting any object (volume) in space that is on the surface of detection volume 941 , such as the objects indicated by squares (at 961). In one embodiment, device 910 may be coupled with system 100, 200 may be capable of detecting any object (volume) in space that includes a unique identifier associated with a URL (or other communication or transaction service identifier) providing it is within the detection volume or on the surface of the detection volume 941. For example, device 910 may be capable of indicating the objects (volumes) in space indicated at 971 , 972.

FIG. 10 shows a method 1000 for using a pointing device, such as those described above in association with a communications system. Method 1000 may be used to detect the set of objects within the detection volume 941. Method 1000 may also be used to determine which of these objects have unique WWW or communications/transaction service identifiers and store ("cache") the subset of VIS coordinates paired with their unique WWW or communications/transaction service identifiers, in computer memory for rapid access by communication systems, including those described above.

The aiming beam of device 910 may be activated at block 1010. Then communication device 20 may set a timer for some interval at block 1020. In one embodiment, device 20 may derive an appropriate interval as a function of the speed, direction and acceleration of device 910. When the timer expires (block 1030), device 20, within communication system 100, 200 may ascertain the coordinates of the user and/or device 410. For example, device 20 may do so from a GPS receiver or a cellular positioning system. At block 1040, device 20 and/or system 100, 200 may then calculate the approximate or exact dimensions of detection volume 941. In one embodiment, the dimensions of detection volume 941 are calculated as a function of known qualities of pointing device 910, such as the range of pointing device 910. Device 20 and/or system 100, 200 may then calculate, using the aforementioned data along with any appropriate "offsets" based on the speed and acceleration of device 910, the coordinates of the detection volume 941 boundaries. Device 20 and/or system 100, 200 may then query translation subsystem 80 at block 1060 for the set of objects that lie approximately or exactly within the detection volume boundaries and that have unique WWW identifiers (or unique service identifiers), for example 971 , 972 in FIG. 9. Device 20, system 100, 200 may then store ("cache") this subset of objects in computer memory as the "most likely" set of objects to be interrogated by device 941 within the next timer interval (block 1070). Device 20 then resets the timer at block 1080. As seen at 1090, the procedure may be repeated. Thus, when the user performs an interrogation, the cache may be queried first in system 100, 200, prior to querying the translation database 80. This allows system 100, 200 to more rapidly access WWW or service identifier associated with VIS coordinates. If the VIS is not found within the cache, then the translation subsystem 80 may be queried to find the VIS coordinate-to-identifier translation.

FIG. 11 shows a method 1100 for using a pointing device, such as those described above in association with a communications system. Method 1100 may be used to position an aiming/interrogation beam and then to trigger an interrogation of VIS coordinates or other location information.

The displacement element 382, such as handle 482 or joystick 682, of manual control subsystem 310 is manually displaced from a reference position to a desired new position (block 1110). The aiming beam 434 may then be positioned at the corresponding displacement from its reference position (block 1120). This may be accomplished via mechanical coupling 360 to interrogation beam control subsystem 330. Interrogation of target VIS 316, 416 may then be initiated at block 1130 by activating trigger mechanism 380, 480 which thereby activates the interrogation signal (via electrical coupling 370, 470 or via communication interfaces 340, 350, 640, 650). FIG. 12 shows a method 1200 for using a pointing device, such as those described above in association with a communications system. Method 1200 may be used to position an aiming/interrogation beam and then to trigger an interrogation of VIS coordinates or other location information.

The displacement element 382, such as handle 482 or joystick 682, of manual control subsystem 310 is manually displaced from a reference position to a desired new position (block 1210). The displacement is then detected by a displacement sensor or detector 384, 684 at block 1215. The detected displacement is transmitted to a data processing system 620 via a communications interface 640 at block 1220. The system 620 receives and decodes the displacement data (block 1225). The system may then calculate corresponding displacement of the aiming beam 632 using a predetermined mathematical relationship such as described above (block 1230). The system 620 then formats and transmits positioning commands to the interrogation beam control subsystem 330 at block 1235. The interrogation beam control subsystem then receives and decodes the positioning commands in order to position the aiming beam at the appropriate displacement from its reference position (block 1240). Interrogation of target VIS 316, 416 may then be initiated at block 1245 by activating trigger mechanism 380, 480, 680. At block 1250, the activation signal is then transmitted to the data processing system 620 that receives the activation signal. The system 620 then transmits the signal to the interrogation beam control subsystem 330 at block 1255, which in turn activates the interrogation signal (at block 1260).

FIG. 13 shows a method 1300 for interacting with an object or volume in space and determining information about it such as, for example, its location coordinates or unique identifying information. As shown at block 1310 a user may begin by selecting an object 16 about which he would like WWW information (or from which he would like to initiate a service), for example, by pointing or aiming at object 16 or at MU 14 mounted on object 16 with pointing device 10. For example, a user might be traveling near a building and want to know if one of the businesses inside the building has a web page. Next the user may activate VIS interrogation and measurement using trigger mechanism 380 or other standard controls on device 10 (block 1320).

Device 10 may then transmit a measurement signal containing modulated pulses (such as, for example, optical or RF energy), towards object 16 or MU 14 mounted on object 16 (block 1330). These pulses would allow device 10 and system 100, 200 to measure, for example, the distance, angle and inclination of the object 16 relative to the user. In one embodiment reflected pulses are received by device 10 and transmitted to the user computer/communication device 20 (block 1340). Device 10 or communication device 20 may then calculate the time of flight based on pulse Time Difference of Arrival as shown at block 1350, and then calculate the relative distance from the VIS to the user observation platform. As shown at block 1360, a GPS type receiver 18 may measure the user's coordinates in space, inclination and declination of the user. Device 10 may also determine inclination and declination of target 16 relative to the user. Alternately, user coordinates may be provided by, for example, a cellular location query. Thus, device 10 or communication device 20 may also receive these measurements as additional input. The computing device 20 may then derive the absolute position of the object 16 from the user GPS coordinates and the relative distance/angle/inclination of the object 16 (block 1370). In another embodiment, the absolute position of the object 16 may be derived by a data processing system remote from the user, by transmitting the measurement data to it via communication network 40.

Once the coordinates of the object or volume in space have been determined according to this method, the user may choose to retrieve information and/or initiate a variety of services related to the object or volume in space. These services are described in further detail in FIGS. 15 through 20. Once a unique identifier, such as a VIS location coordinates, has been determined for the object 16, computing device 20 and system 100, 200 may further process the information to find related information, such as an associated URL or web site, and relay it to the user. For example, end user may interrogate a billboard on a given highway. Once the unique identifier has been determined for that particular billboard, device 20 may also search resources, such as the Internet, to determine whether any further billboards for that same company appear on the same highway.

Additionally, once a unique VIS identifier, such as its coordinates in space, as well as an associated URL, have been determined for the object 16, computing device 20 may further be directed to other resources. For example, end user may point at a billboard on a given highway. Once the associated information has been accessed for that particular billboard, device 20 may also receive a command with the associated information that informs the user of other resources, such as that the company sponsoring the billboard recommends a given restaurant further north on the highway that the user is driving on.

FIG. 14 shows an alternate method 1400 for interacting with an object or volume in space and determining information about it such as, for example, its location coordinates or unique identifying information. The user may begin by pointing at the target object 16 with a pint device 10 as described above (block 1410). The user may activate VIS selection and measurement using standard controls on device 10 (block 1420). Device 10 may then transmit an interrogation signal or request for identification (which may be for example, optical or RF energy) while aimed at object 16 or MU 14 mounted on object 16 (block 1430). The object 16 or MU 14 may then generate or reflect a response signal and transmit identification data, which is received by device 10 at block 1440. The response signal may then be decoded by device 10 and transmitted to the user computer/communication device 20 (block 1450.) Once the identification data has been determined according to this method, the user may choose to retrieve information, for example WWW data, and/or initiate a variety of services related to the object or volume in space. These services are described in further detail in FIGS. 15 through 20.

It can be seen that whether device 10 calculates the unique object-identifier, such as location coordinates, from various data, as shown in FIG. 13, or whether device 10 simply receives the unique object-identifier from object 16, as shown in FIG. 14, once the identifier is determined, system 100, 200 is able to use the identifier to interface with an appropriate WWW site or initiate an appropriate service.

For example communication device 20 may transmit the derived VIS identifier, for example location coordinates, to VIS-to-URL translation subsystem 80. The coordinates may be transmitted via, for example, a communication network 40 using standard communication protocols and methods appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the translation subsystem 80. The translation subsystem 80 may also be stored on the user computer/communication device 20 or may be a subsystem on a host computer attached to the Internet 60.

The translation subsystem 80 may then translate the received VIS coordinates to WWW identifiers, such as for example, a URL. The translation subsystem 80 may alternately translate the VIS coordinates to communication or transaction service identifiers, such as telephone number, paging identifier, email handle, instant message handle, IP address, etc. These identifiers may designate a communication endpoint, a server or a communication service. Subsystem 80 then transmits the URL or other identifier to communication device 20. This device 20 in turn transmits the URL or other identifier to a target web host computer 70 via, for example, the Internet 60 by standard or acceptable methods and protocols, for example, HTTP. The desired WWW data is then returned to communication device 20 via, for example, the Internet 60. This data may then be output to the user on communication device 20 via any standard or acceptable method.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart that illustrates one embodiment of a method 1500 for accessing a communication service in relation to an object or volume in space. Communication device 20 may transmit the derived VIS coordinates or VIS identifier to a translation subsystem 80 (block 1510). The coordinates may be transmitted via, for example, a communication network 40 using standard communication protocols and methods appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the translation subsystem 80. The translation subsystem 80 may also be stored on the user computer/communication device 20 or may be a subsystem on a host computer attached to the Internet 60.

The translation subsystem 80 may then translate the received VIS coordinates to a service identifier, such as for example, a URL, IP address, email handle, paging identifier, or phone number, etc. designating a server or communication service (block 1520). Subsystem 80 may also translate the received VIS coordinates to a command identifier, such as, for example, A URL designating a page of a server or a command to dial a given phone number (block 1530). Additionally, the translated identifiers may be stored as shown at block 1540. These identifiers may be stored on translation subsystem 80 or any appropriate component within system 100, 200. When required by the user, the translated identifiers may then be accessed from communication device 20 via, for example, the Internet 60. This access may occur, for example, via a command from device 20 to initiate retrieval of the identifiers. The identifiers may then be retrieved and sent to device 20. The data may be displayed to the user on communication device 20 via any standard or acceptable method. Alternatively, the user may retrieve the identifiers or perform the service from a different computer at a different time and location, for example, from a home computer or a computer located in a vehicle. For example, FIG. 16 shows one embodiment of a method 1600 for creating a so-called "bookmark" in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention. Communication device 20 may transmit the derived VIS coordinates or identifier to VIS-to-URL translation subsystem 80 (block 1610). The coordinates may be transmitted via, for example, a communication network 40 using standard communication protocols and methods appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the translation subsystem 80. The translation subsystem 80 may also be stored on the user computer/communication device 20 or may be a subsystem on a host computer attached to the Internet 60.

The translation subsystem 80 may then translate the received VIS coordinates to WWW identifiers, such as for example, a URL or IP address (block 1620). Subsystem 80 may then transmit the URL or other identifier to a bookmark storage computer system 81 as shown at block 1630. The URL or other identifier may then be stored in the memory of system 81 as shown at block 1640. When required by the user, the desired WWW data may then be accessed from communication device 20 via, for example, the Internet 60. This access may occur, for example, via a command from device 20 to initiate retrieval of bookmarked data associated with the VIS from system 81 (block 1650). The command may be in a format, protocol or method appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the bookmark storage computer system 81. This data may then be retrieved and sent to device 20 as shown at block 1660. The retrieved data may be output to the user on communication device 20 (or alternate computer) via any standard or acceptable method.

Bookmarked data may be retrieved from any suitable computing or communication device, whether or not it is the device originally used to select the information. For example, communication device 20 (separate from or incorporating pointing device 10) may be used to transmit the original VIS coordinates via system 100, 200 and create the related bookmark. Another device, such as a home computer or in-vehicle computer, could later be used to retrieve the bookmark. Additionally, device 20 and/or system 100, 200 may be configured to transfer the bookmarks to another device such as a home computer or a storage service. The device 20 may also be configured to transmit bookmarks to any suitable storage system located remote from device 20.

By using the method described in FIG. 16, a mobile user may store, and later retrieve, information related to an object or VIS, such as a building, object, or billboard. The user may: (1 ) "select" the object (VIS) via a handheld device;

(2) derive a piece of unique identifying information pertaining to that object (VIS);

(3) transform the data into a unique WWW identifier; and finally, (4) "bookmark" (store) the identifier in persistent computer memory (either local or remote to the user) for future retrieval and use by a software application, for example a browser.

FIG. 17 shows one embodiment of a method 1700 for accessing an e-mail system in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention. Communication device 20 may transmit the derived VIS identifier, for example location coordinates, to VIS-to-e-mail system identifiers translation subsystem 80 (block 1710). The coordinates may be transmitted via, for example, a communication network 40 using standard communication protocols and methods appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the translation subsystem 80. The translation subsystem 80 may also be stored on the user computer/communication device 20 or may be a subsystem on a host computer attached to the Internet 60.

The translation subsystem 80 may then translate the received VIS coordinates to a destination e-mail handle or IP address (block 1720). The destination e-mail handle or address may then be transmitted to an e-mail distribution system 82 as shown at block 1730. An e-mail message may then be automatically created with the destination e-mail handle or address as the addressee (block 1740). Additionally, system 100, 200 could be configured to automatically send a copy of the email to the user or another email handle pre-designated by the user. It is contemplated that the e-mail message(s) created may be formatted or manipulated using means well known in the art, such as those that automatically and dynamically generate and send e-mail.

The email distribution system may then automatically transmit the e-mail message(s) to a destination e-mail service or device associated with the destination e-mail handle or address (block 1750). The message may be received by the user or service designated by the destination e-mail handle or address using any suitable means.

For example, an end user may point device 10 at a business with or without an e-mail address inscribed upon it. The business may broadcast their e-mail address on advertising or via a mounted unit as described above. The user may then interrogate the business using device 10. Device 10 may derive a VIS coordinate and transmit it to translation subsystem 80, which then associates it with (and translates it to) a destination e-mail address. Translation subsystem 80 then transmits the email address to email distribution computer system 82, which then may automatically create and send an e-mail message including the destination e-mail address based on the VIS coordinates of the business. System 82 may additionally create and send a copy of the email to user or other party including a destination e-mail address pre-designated by the user. Alternatively, the e-mail message could be generated and sent by any e- mail service associated with system 100, 200. Finally, an e-mail message could be created and sent to the user's e-mail address, incorporating the e-mail handle associated with the VIS as text in the body of the email.

By using the method described in FIG. 17, a mobile may automatically initiate the sending of e-mail messages related to an object or VIS. The user may: (1) "select" the object (VIS) via a handheld device; (2) derive a piece of unique identifying information pertaining to that object (VIS); (3) transform the unique VIS identifier into a unique destination email address; and finally (4) automatically generate and send an email file to the email address.

FIG. 18 shows one embodiment of a method 1800 for initiating a real-time connection, for example a voice, video, text chat or instant message connection, in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention. Communication device 20 may transmit the derived VIS coordinates to VIS-to-endpoint identifier translation subsystem 80 (block 1810). The coordinates may be transmitted via, for example, a communication network 40 using standard communication protocols and methods appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the translation subsystem 80. The translation subsystem 80 may also be stored on the user computer/communication device 20 or may be a subsystem on a host computer attached to the Internet 60.

The translation subsystem 80 may then translate the received VIS coordinates to one or more communication end-point identifiers, such as, for example, one or more phone numbers for a called party (block 1820), an IP address for an IP connection endpoint, an instant message identifier, etc. The translation subsystem 80 may also translate the coordinates into communication service commands or messages. The translation subsystem 80 may then transmit the communication end-point identifiers, along with the appropriate command(s) or message(s), to Call Processing and Directory computer system 84. The command(s) or message(s) may be in any format, protocol or method appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the Call Processing and Directory computer system 84. Call setup/notification may then occur between communication endpoints via the appropriate communication network for these endpoints, for example a PSTN, a wireless network, an IP network, etc. These endpoints may be, for example, an endpoint (e.g. phone number) associated with device 20 or endpoints associated with a party or parties to be called. Call setup/notification may then be identified as described above via any acceptable communication device network, such as, for example, a telephony network (block 1830). The same or an associated network may monitor the call or connection as shown at block 1840. When the user is ready to terminate the connection, call termination may occur at the endpoint associated with the user (or device 20), at the endpoint associated with the called party or at both endpoints (shown at block 1850).

For example, an end user may point device 10 at a building (with or without a called party phone number or other identifier inscribed upon it or being transmitted from it). The user may then interrogate the building, using device 10. Device 10 may derive a VIS identifier, such as a location coordinate, and transmit it to translation subsystem 80, which then associates it with (and translates it to) a called party identifier, such as a phone number. Translation subsystem 80 then transmits the VIS identifier to Call Processing and Directory computer system 84, which then may automatically initiate a real-time connection between the called party and the user, based on the VIS coordinates of the building.

Alternately, translation subsystem 80 may transmit the called party identifier to communication device 20 (associated with or integrating device 10), which may then automatically or manually initiate a real-time connection, such as a phone call, to the number associated with the VIS coordinates of the building. Alternatively, the call could be initiated automatically on any real-time connection network 82 or any real time communication network associated with system 100, 200, with or without additional awareness or intervention on the part of the user. Such a network may then connect the device 20 to the called party. Finally, the called party identifier could be stored in computer memory for later retrieval by the end user, via any user computer or communication device.

By using the method described in FIG. 18, a mobile user may initiate realtime connections to endpoints associated with or related to a nearby object or VIS, like a building, object, or billboard. The user may: (1) "select" the object (VIS) via a handheld device; (2) derive a piece of unique identifying information pertaining to that object (VIS); then (3) transform the unique VIS identifier into a unique communication service identification data (such as a phone number, IP address, user handle, instant message identifier, etc.) then (4) initiate a real-time communication based on the identification data. The real time communication could consist of, for example, a text-based instant message or chat session, a voice connection, or a video connection.

FIG. 19 shows one embodiment of a method 1900 for accessing a paging service in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention. Such a paging service could be a standalone network, such as a one- or two-way alphanumeric paging network, or could be associated with a cellular network, such as a "Short Message Service". Communication device 20 may transmit the derived VIS coordinates to VIS-to-paging command translation subsystem 80 (block 1910). The coordinates may be transmitted via, for example, a communication network 40 using standard communication protocols and methods appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the translation subsystem 80. The translation subsystem 80 may also be stored on the user computer/communication device 20 or may be a subsystem on a host computer attached to the Internet 60.

The translation subsystem 80 may then translate the received VIS coordinates to a paging endpoint identifier, along with a paging command and/or an alphanumeric paging message (block 1920). The destination paging network may then be determined at block 1930. The paging command or message may then be automatically transmitted to a paging gateway system 86 as shown at block 1940. A paging message may then be created as shown at block 1950. It is contemplated that the paging message may be formatted or manipulated using means well known in the art, such as means that automatically and dynamically generates a message. For example, the paging message may be numeric message or may be an alphanumeric message.

The system 100, 200 may then transmit the message to a destination computer service as shown at block 1960. The message may then be sent to a destination computing or communication device, such as a pager or cellular phone, at block 1970. The message may be output on the destination computing or communication device via any standard or acceptable method.

By using the method described in FIG. 19, a mobile user may store, and later retrieve, information related to a nearby object or VIS, like a building or billboard. The user may: (1) "select" the object (VIS) via a handheld device; (2) derive a piece of unique identifying information pertaining to that object (VIS); then (3) transform the unique VIS identifier into a unique pager number/address and/or unique paging gateway address, and finally (4) automatically initiate the sending of an alphanumeric page, a text message, an e-mail message, an instant message or other appropriate type of message, to a unique paging device.

FIG. 20 shows one embodiment of a method 2000 for initiating an e- commerce transaction in relation to an object or volume in space in accordance with the present invention. Communication device 20 may transmit the derived VIS coordinates to VIS-to-transaction command translation subsystem 80 (block 2010). The coordinates may be transmitted via, for example, a communication network 40 using standard communication protocols and methods appropriate to the particular network and to whatever computer is host to the translation subsystem 80. The translation subsystem 80 may also be stored on the user computer/communication device 20 or may be a subsystem on a host computer attached to the Internet 60.

The translation subsystem 80 may then translate the received VIS coordinates to a command for a particular transaction to an e-commerce transaction server (block 2020), along with any necessary related data to complete the transaction. The command or message may then be transmitted to the transaction server system 88 as shown at block 2030. It is contemplated that the transaction command and related data may be formatted or manipulated using means well known in the art, such as those that automatically generates the command and data. For example, the command and data may be formatted using HTTP/HTML. The system 100, 200 may then effect the transaction, as shown at block 2040, and send any required responses to the user computer communication device 20, or to any other remote computer.

By using the method described in FIG. 20, a mobile user may initiate transactions associated with or related to a nearby object or VIS, like a building, object, or billboard. The user may: (1) "select" the object (VIS) via a handheld device; (2) derive a piece of unique identifying information pertaining to that object (VIS); then (3) transform the unique VIS identifier into a unique transaction command for a product or service, and finally (4) automatically initiate or complete the transaction.

It should be appreciated that the methods for interacting with and initiating a communication or transaction service described above are to be considered in all respects only illustrative and not restrictive. The interaction or initiation is based on the (1) selection of a Volume or Object In Space, (2) derivation of a unique VIS identifier, (3) translation of the VIS identifier into a unique service identifier (or set of identifiers), and (4) initiation of the communication or transaction service from system 100, 200 or communication device 20 associated with device 10. Alternately, the service identifier can be stored in computer memory for later retrieval by the user from any user computer (ergo, in layman's terms, "bookmarked").

The ability to accurately determine the address, location, or identification of various structures and to be able to initiate communication and transaction services specific to the object or volume in space has a potentially large market. Identifying a specific structure or object and the downloading data specific to the structure or object will greatly simplify and decrease response times of emergency and delivery services. Such a system would conceivably be used by police, fire, ambulance, or any other type of emergency service, delivery services, postal service, utility services, meter-reading, golf courses, railroads, military vehicles, as well as private use. The ability to automatically access a VIS specific web site/URL or automatically initiate a variety of communication and transaction services expands the market for advertising, education, and e- commerce.

Other potential applications include, but are not limited to: Enhanced or mobile 911 ; database such as those on audix/PBX systems; enhanced directory services; air-traffic control; automobile and transportation; automated mass transit; public and private telecommunications systems; construction; geophysical and geologic industries; entertainment; medical; sports; manufacturing; mapping; meteorological applications; forestry management; agricultural industry; mining industry; aviation and nautical industries; HVAC systems; enhanced earth-moving systems; warehouse inventory management; ESDA haz-mat registry; tourism; mobile Internet access; and integration of this system with other systems.

It should be appreciated that the embodiments described above are to be considered in all respects only illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the following claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A system for selecting a volume in space, comprising: a selecting device including a control subsystem with a displacement element and an aiming subsystem, the aiming subsystem operatively connected to the control subsystem; and at least one communication interface in communication with the selecting device for communicating with a user communication device.

2. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a trigger mechanism operatively connected to the selecting device to initiate an interrogation signal from the aiming subsystem.

3. The system of claim 2 further comprising: an electrical interface operatively connected to the aiming subsystem and the trigger mechanism.

4. The system of claim 2 wherein the trigger mechanism is selected from the group consisting of: electromechanical devices for activating a trigger pulse, push buttons, switches and gun-like triggers.

5. The system of claim 1 wherein the aiming subsystem further comprises an interrogation beam transceiver.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein the aiming subsystem further comprises an electromechanical servo-control mechanism.

7. The system of claim 1 wherein the aiming subsystem further comprises an articulated arm.

8. The system of claim 7 wherein the aiming subsystem further comprises a rotating mechanism operatively attached to the articulated arm.

9. The system of claim 7 wherein the articulated arm is operatively attached to an interrogation beam transceiver.

10. The system of claim 7 wherein the articulated arm includes at least one joint, the articulated arm capable of movement at the joint.

11. The system of claim 7 wherein the articulated arm is flexible.

12. The system of claim 1 wherein the displacement element spatially displaces from a reference position.

13. The system of claim 1 wherein the displacement element is selected from the group consisting of: a handle, a joystick, a trackball, and a mouse.

14. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a displacement detector in communication with the displacement element for detecting a first displacement of the displacement element from a reference position.

15. The system of claim 14 wherein the displacement detector is an optical sensor.

16. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a first communication interface in communication with the control subsystem; a second communication interface in communication with the aiming subsystem; and a data processing subsystem in communication with the first and second communication interfaces.

17. The system of claim 16 wherein the data processing subsystem is operatively adapted to calculate a calculated displacement of the interrogation beam.

18. The system of claim 17 wherein the data processing subsystem is adapted to automatically effect the calculated displacement in the aiming subsystem.

19. The system of claim 17 wherein the data processing subsystem is adapted to control an electromechanical servo mechanism to direct an interrogation beam to a desired position.

20. The system of claim 1 wherein a displacement in the control subsystem effects a corresponding displacement in the aiming subsystem.

21. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a translation subsystem in communication with the communication interface.

22. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a modem in communication with the communication interface.

23. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a GPS receiver in communication with the communication interface.

24. A method of selecting an object, comprising: providing a selecting device comprising a displacement element and an aiming beam; displacing the displacement element from a reference position to a desired position; positioning the aiming beam at a displacement corresponding to the desired position; and sending an interrogation signal to the object.

25. The method of claim 24 further comprising: detecting displacement data about a desired position; calculating a corresponding displacement of the aiming beam based on the displacement data; transmitting a position command based on the corresponding displacement to the aiming beam; and positioning the aiming beam based on the position command.

26. The method of claim 24 further comprising: receiving identification data from the object.

27. The method of claim 24 wherein the interrogation signal comprises a measurement signal containing modulated pulses, the measurement signals operatively adapted to measure the position of the object in relation to the selecting device.

28. A method of associating a service identifier with an object, comprising the steps of: providing a database of service identifiers, wherein each service identifier corresponds to an object-identifier; and comparing at least one object-identifier identifying the object to the database to associate at least one service identifier with the object.

29. The method of claim 28 further comprising: initiating a service associated with the service identifier.

30. The method of claim 28 wherein the service is selected from the group consisting of: a bookmarking system, an e-mail service, a real-time connection service, a paging service, an e-commerce service, an instant-messaging service, a communication service, a bookmarking command, an e-mail command, a realtime connection command, a paging command, an e-commerce command, an instant messaging command, a communication service command, a bookmarking endpoint, an e-mail endpoint, a real-time connection endpoint, a paging endpoint, an e-commerce endpoint, an instant-messaging endpoint, and a communication service endpoint.

31. The method of claim 28 further comprising: receiving the object-identifier from the object.

32. The method of claim 28 further comprising: generating the object-identifier in a unit operatively attached to the object.

33. The method of claim 28 further comprising: determining a set of object-location coordinates for the object; determining a set of user-location coordinates for a user; deriving the object-identifier from the user-location coordinates relative to the object-location coordinates.

34. The method of claim 28 further comprising: transmitting an interrogation signal toward the object; receiving a return signal from the object; and determining the object-identifier based on the return signal.

35. A method of creating a bookmark, comprising the steps of: providing a database of bookmarkable items, wherein each bookmarkable item corresponds to at least one object-identifier; comparing at least one object-identifier to the database to associate at least one bookmarkable item with the object-identifier; and automatically creating a bookmark for the associated item.

36. The method of claim 35 wherein the bookmarkable item is selected from the group consisting of:

Internet sites, Internet commands, Internet identifiers, communications service identifiers, communications service commands, and communications service endpoint identifiers.

37. The method of claim 35 further comprising: receiving the object-identifier from a volume in space.

38. The method of claim 35 further comprising: storing the bookmark in computer memory.

39. The method of claim 35 further comprising: retrieving the bookmark from a computing device associated with a communication network.

40. A method of accessing an e-mail system, comprising the steps of: providing a database of e-mail identifiers, wherein each e-mail identifier corresponds to at least one object-identifier; comparing an object-identifier associated with a volume in space to the database; associating at least one e-mail identifier with the object-identifier; and accessing the e-mail system associated with the e-mail identifier.

41. The method of claim 40 further comprising: automatically generating an e-mail message; and sending the message to the e-mail system.

42. The method of claim 40 further comprising: sending the message to a user.

43. A method of initiating a real-time connection, comprising the steps of: providing a list of connection identifiers, wherein each connection identifier corresponds to at least one object-identifier; comparing an object-identifier to the list; associating at least one connection identifier with the object-identifier; and initiating a real-time connection to the connection identifier associated with the object-identifier.

44. The method of claim 43 wherein the real-time connection is selected from the group consisting of: a voice connection, a video connection, a text chat connection, and an instant message connection.

45. The method of claim 43 wherein the connection identifier is selected from the group consisting of: a connection command identifier, a connection service identifier, and a connection endpoint identifier.

46. A method of accessing a paging system, comprising the steps of: providing a database of paging identifiers, each paging identifier corresponding to at least one object-identifier; comparing an object-identifier to the database; selecting at least one paging identifier associated with the object- identifier; and accessing the paging system associated with the paging identifier.

47. The method of claim 46 further comprising: automatically generating a message to the associated paging identifier.

48. The method of claim 47 further comprising: sending a message to the associated paging identifier.

49. A method of conducting a transaction, comprising: providing a database of transaction identifiers, each transaction identifier corresponding to at least one object-identifier; comparing an object-identifier to the database; selecting at least one transaction identifier associated with the object-identifier; and performing the transaction associated with the identifier.

50. A system of associating an object with a service, comprising: a selecting device, the selecting device operatively adapted to choose an object as an input parameter; a communication device to derive an object-identifier describing the object, the communication device in communication with the selecting device; and a translation database in communication with the communication device, the translation database comprising at least one object-identifier associated with the service.

51. The system of claim 50 further comprising: a command list in communication with the translation database, the command list comprising at least one command corresponding to an object- identifier.

52. A computer readable medium storing a program for associating an object in space with a service, comprising: computer readable program code that operates a selecting mechanism for receiving at least one received object-identifiers; computer readable code that stores a database of object- identifiers, each object-identifier corresponding to at least one service-identifier; computer readable program code that compares the received object-identifier to the database; computer readable program code that selects at least one service- identifier corresponding to the received object-identifier; and computer readable program code that accesses a service associated with the service-identifier.

53. The program of claim 52 further comprising: computer readable program code that initiates a command associated with the service.

54. The program of claim 52 further comprising: computer readable program code that identifies at least one endpoint associated with the service.

55. The program of claim 52 further comprising computer readable program code that selects at least one connection identifier corresponding to the received object-identifier.

56. The program of claim 52 further comprising: computer readable program code that generates the object- identifier in a unit operatively attached to the object.

57. The program of claim 52 further comprising: computer readable program code that determines a set of object-location coordinates for the object; computer readable program code that determines a set of user-location coordinates for a user; and computer readable program code that derives the object-identifier from the user-location coordinates relative to the object-location coordinates.

58. The program of claim 52 further comprising: computer readable program code that transmits an interrogation signal toward the object; computer readable program code that receives a return signal from the object; and computer readable program code that determines the object-identifier based on the return signal.

59. The program of claim 52 further comprising: computer readable program code that associates an object- identifier with location information; and computer readable program code that stores the object-identifier and associated location information.

60. A method of associating an object with a service, comprising: providing a selecting device; measuring an amount of time during which object-identifiers are stored; sending an interrogation signal from the device; determining coordinates of the device in space; calculating a detection volume based on location of the device in space; identifying at least one object having an object-identifier within the detection volume, the object-identifier associated with location information of the object; and storing the object-identifier and associated location information.

61. The method of claim 60 wherein the object-identifier and associated location information are stored in a database subsystem.

62. The method of claim 60, further comprising: selecting an object with the selecting device; interrogating the object with the interrogation signal; determining the object-identifier associated with the object; and

63. The method of claim 60 further comprising: accessing the database subsystem via a communication device.