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A system is provided for delivering Internet and digital content to a variety of thin client devices. A web portal for accessing and selecting content is used in conjunction with graphical user interfaces on a personal computer for setting up and controlling the content channels. The user interfaces, scheduling, and communication management are controlled by a system control software application running on a local server with an Internet connection. A high speed local area network provides for streaming content from the Internet or local server to thin client devices. A digital audio playback device is connected to the local server via the local area network connection and decodes streamed audio files, and converts them into analog audio signals for input into a conventional stereo. Digital content is streamed automatically from the local server to another Internet playback device, based on end user content preferences and schedule selections.
1. An apparatus comprising:
a first interface configured to communicate with a wide area network (WAN);
a second interface configured to communicate with a client device via a local area network (LAN); and
a server communicatively part of the LAN and comprising a storage device, wherein the server is coupled to the first interface and the second interface, wherein the server is configured to retrieve user specified content from a facility via the first interface, to store the user specified content, and to deliver the user specified content to the client device via the second interface;
wherein the server further comprises a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to associate the user specified content with the client device and to schedule a future time when the user specified content will be automatically delivered to the associated client device via the LAN, wherein the GUI is further configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility.
2. The apparatus of
3. The apparatus of
4. The apparatus of
5. A method comprising:
downloading user specified content to a server from a facility via a wide area network (WAN);
delivering the user specified content from the server to a client specified device via a local area network (LAN), wherein the server is communicatively part of the LAN, wherein the user specified content is delivered from the server to the client specified device according to a first schedule specified to the server by the user, and wherein the first schedule includes a future time at which the user specified content is to be delivered to the client specified device, and wherein the server is configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility; and
automating the downloading and the delivering of the user specified content.
6. The method of
7. The method of
8. A tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon, computer-executable instructions that, if executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform a method comprising:
downloading user specified content to a server from a facility via a wide area network (WAN);
delivering the user specified content from the server to a client specified device via a local area network (LAN), wherein the server is communicatively part of the LAN, wherein-the user specified content is delivered from the server to the client specified device according to a first schedule specified to the server by the user, wherein the first schedule includes a future time at which the user specified content is to be delivered to the client specified device, and wherein the server is configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility; and
automating the downloading and the delivering of the user specified content.
9. The tangible computer-readable medium of
10. The tangible computer-readable medium of
11. A method for presenting content, the method comprising:
receiving an instruction for selecting a content to be downloaded from a wide area network (WAN) to a local system in response to an input received via a content selection interface of the local system;
downloading the content from the WAN to the local system based on an availability of the content; and
automatically delivering the content from the local system to a client device via a local area network (LAN), wherein the local system is communicatively part of the LAN, at a user specified time using a scheduling interface of the local system, wherein the scheduling interface is configured to receive a user specified schedule of one or more future times at which the content is to be delivered to the client device, wherein the scheduling interface is further configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved via the WAN.
12. An apparatus for viewing content, the apparatus comprising:
a first data processing system configured to communicate with a facility via a wide area network (WAN), wherein the first data processing system comprises a first interface configured to allow selecting a content stored at the facility, and a scheduling mechanism configured to allow scheduling a time of a future transaction for acquiring the selected content from the facility and configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility; and
a second data processing system configured to communicate with the first data processing system via a local area network (LAN), wherein the second data processing system is communicatively part of the LAN, and wherein the second data processing system comprises a second interface configured to schedule an automatic time to deliver the content from the first data processing system to a client device via the LAN.
13. An apparatus comprising:
a computing device configured to communicate with a wide area network (WAN) and configured to communicate with a client device via a local area network (LAN), wherein the computing device is communicatively part of the LAN;
a first user interface executable at the computing device, wherein the first user interface is configured to allow a user to select a content to be downloaded from a facility via the WAN;
a storage device operatively coupled to the computing device, wherein the storage device is configured to store the content; and
a second user interface executable at the client device and configured to select a plurality of client devices to deliver the content and scheduling an automatic delivery of the content at a user-selected future time from the computing device to the plurality of client devices via the LAN, wherein the second user interface is further configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility.
14. The apparatus of
15. The apparatus of
16. A tangible computer-readable medium having stored thereon, computer-executable instructions that, if executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform a method comprising:
downloading to the computing device a content from a facility via a wide area network (WAN) at a first time, wherein the computing device comprises a storage device;
storing the content in the storage device;
presenting a user interface configured to allow selecting a plurality of client devices communicatively coupled to the computing device via a local area network (LAN), wherein the computing device is communicatively part of the LAN, wherein the plurality of client devices are selected to receive a delivery of the content, wherein the user interface is further configured to allow scheduling of a future time to deliver the content to the plurality of client devices, wherein the user interface is further configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility; and
automatically activating the delivery of the content from the computing device to the plurality of client devices via the LAN at a second time that is different than the first time.
17. The tangible computer-readable medium of
18. The tangible computer-readable medium of
19. A method comprising:
downloading user specified content to a server from a facility via a wide area network (WAN);
delivering the user specified content from the server to a plurality of client devices via a local area network (LAN) according to an association between the plurality of client devices and the user specified content, wherein the server is communicatively part of the LAN, wherein the association between the plurality of client devices and the user specified content is established through a graphical user interface (GUI) of the server, and wherein the association includes a plurality of scheduled times at which the user specified content is to be delivered to the plurality of client devices, wherein the GUI is further configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility; and
automating the downloading and the delivering of the user specified content.
20. The method of
21. A system for providing content, the system comprising:
a first data processing system configured to communicate with a facility over a wide area network (WAN), wherein the first data processing system comprises a first interface configured to enable selecting a content stored at the facility, and a scheduling mechanism configured to enable scheduling a transaction for acquiring the selected content from the facility; and
a second data processing system configured to communicate with the first data processing system via a local area network (LAN), wherein the second data processing system is communicatively part of the LAN, wherein the second data processing system comprises a second interface configured to schedule a plurality of future times at which to automatically deliver the content from the first data processing system to a client device via the LAN, wherein the second interface is further configured to allow scheduling a time when the user specified content is retrieved from the facility.
This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/841,268, filed Apr. 24, 2001, entitled "System for Providing Content, Management, and Interactivity for Thin Client Devices," which claims benefit of 60/268,434, filed Feb. 12, 2001, and 60/199,638, filed Apr. 25, 2000, and which is a Continuation-in-Part (CIP) of patent application Ser. No. 09/519,007, filed Mar. 3, 2000, which claims benefit to 60/122,727, filed Mar. 4, 1999.
A system is disclosed for providing user specified channels for moving content from the Internet and local storage device to one or more networked devices for access by end users. More specifically, content and data is delivered to a variety of devices via a caching gateway device and a local area network. Software residing on a PC or PC in combination with a storage gateway device provides content distribution, management, and interaction functions.
Web, world wide web, and Internet are used here interchangeably, and are defined as the sum total of all connected computers on the planet, the connection being via standardized digital communications protocols; such as TCP-IP and HTTP and the like, including wirelessly linked devices that may use other protocols.
Broadband connection is defined as a communications network in which the frequency bandwidth can be divided and shared by multiple simultaneous signals. A broadband connection to the Internet typically provides minimum upstream and downstream data-rates of approximately 200K or more bits per second. There are many different types of broadband connections including DSL, cable modems, and fixed and mobile wireless connections.
A DOCSIS (Data Over Cable System Interface Specification) modem is an industry standard type of cable modem that is used to provide broadband access to the Internet over a coaxial cable physical layer that is also used for the delivery of cable TV signals (CATV). DOCSIS modems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not be described here in detail.
A DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) modem is also an industry standard type of modem that is used to provide broadband access to the Internet, but over conventional copper phone lines (local loops). DSL modems are well known in the telecommunications industry and will not be described here in further detail.
The term gateway, used interchangeably with broadband gateway, is defined as an integral modem and router, and may include hub functionality. The modem function is used to change voltage fluctuations on an input carrier line (a DSL line input or a cable TV input) into digital data Modems (modulator/demodulator) are a well-known technology in the telecommunications market and will not be addressed in detail here. Routers are devices that connect one distinct network to another by passing only certain IP addresses that are targeted for specific networks. Hubs allow one network signal input to be split and thus sent to many devices. Routers and hubs are well known technologies in the network and telecommunications industry so they will not be described here in detail.
Gateway storage peripheral is defined as an add-on storage device with processing power, an operating system, and a software application that manages the downloading and storage of data. An example scenario for the use of a gateway storage peripheral is a system where a user has a DOCSIS modem and would like to add an always-on storage capability. The gateway storage peripheral is connected to the DOCSIS modem via a USB port or an Ethernet port in the DOCSIS modem. USB disks are well known in the computer storage peripheral industry, and are available for purchase. A gateway storage peripheral in combination with a DOCSIS modem or any type of broadband modem is considered a storage gateway system. A PC that is always left on and connected to an always-on gateway with a DSL or broadband cable connection is considered a storage gateway system.
The term "message" is defined as information that is sent digitally from one computing device to another for various purposes. The term "content" is used to mean the information contained in digital files or streams that is meaningful, relevant, and desired, by end-users. For example, content is entertainment or news, that is, information that was for the most part created by entities other than the end-user, or for example, audio files in MP3 format. "Data" is used to mean information created by end-users such as digital schedule contents, responses from devices sent back through the system, or digital messages and email. "Content" and "data" are sometimes used interchangeably.
Local Area Network (LAN) is defined as a network structure that includes two or more devices that can communicate with other devices utilizing a shared communication infrastructure, including wired network technologies, such as Ethernet, or wireless network technologies such as 802.11b or HomeRF technology. Wireless LAN technology such as 802.11b and HomeRF are based on the unlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) frequency band and are well known the telecommunications and LAN industries. These networking technologies utilize Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocols (hereafter TCP/IP) protocols. Since these protocols and these technologies are well known, they will not be addressed here in detail. A LAN typically constitutes a group of interconnected devices that share a common geographic location and are typically grouped together as a subnet. A local network for example would be a home network where several computers and other smart devices, such as the Internet clock (described below), would be digitally connected for the purpose of transferring content and data, controlling each other, sharing programming, or presenting data and content to an end user.
Codec (Compression/Decompression algorithm) is a software application that is used to decode (uncompress) encoded (compressed) media files or streams. Most content is stored and sent in a compressed format so that the content files are smaller and thus take up less storage space and use less bandwidth when being transferred via the Internet. The content is then decoded at the playback device. For example, MP3 audio files are encoded and must be decoded by a microprocessor running the codec in order for the audio content to be presented to the user in an analog format. Codecs for both video and audio are a well-known field of digital media technology and will not described here in detail.
HTTP is Hyper-text transfer protocol, the protocol used by Web browsers and Web servers to transfer files, such as text and graphic files.
Data-rate is defined as the data throughput of a telecommunications system or technology, and is measured in a quantity of bits per second, such as millions of bits per second (Mbps).
The rapid buildup of telecommunications infrastructure combined with substantial investment in Internet-based businesses and technology has brought Internet connectivity to a large segment of the population. Recent market statistics show that a majority of households in the U.S. own at least one personal computer (PC), and a significant number of these PCs are connected to the Internet. Many households include two or more PCs, as well as various PC productivity peripherals such as printers, scanners, and the like. Decreases in the cost of PC components such as microprocessors, hard disk drives, memory, and displays, have driven the commoditization of PCs. Although the majority of household PCs are connected to the Internet by dialup modem connections, broadband connectivity is being rapidly adopted, and is decreasing in price as a variety of technologies are introduced and compete in the marketplace. A large majority of households in the U.S. and Europe is viable for at least one or more type of broadband connection, such as cable, DSL, optical networks, fixed wireless, or two-way satellite transmission.
A market for home networking technology has emerged, driven by the need to share an Internet connection between two or more PCs, and to connect all the PCs to productivity peripherals. There has been innovation in LAN technology based on end-user desire for simplicity and ease of installation. Installing Ethernet cable is impractical for a majority of end-users, therefore a number of no-new-wires technologies have been introduced. The Home Phoneline Networking Association (HPNA) promotes networking products that turn existing phone wiring in the home into an Ethernet physical layer. Adapters are required that allow each device to plug into any RJ-11 phone jack in the home. The adapter modifies the signal from devices so that it can be carried by the home phone lines. Existing HPNA products provide data-rates equivalent to 10base-T Ethernet, approximately 10 Mbps. Networking technology that uses the AC power wiring in the home to carry data signals has also appeared, notably from Intellon Corporation, of Ocala, Fla. Similar to HPNA devices, adapters are required to convert data signals from devices into voltage fluctuations carried on to and off of the AC wires, allowing any AC outlet to become a network interface. Although both HPNA and power line networking products are convenient to use because they require no new wires, the advantage of AC power line products over HPNA is that AC power outlets are more ubiquitous than RJ-11 phone jacks.
Wireless radio-frequency (RF) LAN technology has also been introduced into the home networking market. Theoretically, wireless technology is the most convenient for the end user to install. There are currently two prevalent standards for wireless networking, 802.11b and HomeRF. Both of these systems utilize the unlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM band as the carrier frequency for the transmission of data Both of these technologies have effective ranges of approximately 150 feet in a typical household setting. 802.11b is a direct sequence spread spectrum technology, and is provided by a variety of telecommunication OEMs such as Lucent Corporation of Murray Hill, N.J. HomeRF is a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology and is also provided by a variety of telecommunications OEMs such as Proxim, Inc., of Sunnyvale, Calif. Adapters that are RF transceivers are required for each device to communicate on the network. In addition to utilizing TCP/IP protocols, each of 802.11b and HomeRF include additional encryption and security protocol layers so that the user's devices have controlled access to data being sent through the LAN.
Due to market competition and the effect of Moore's Law, home networking technology is greatly increasing in performance and availability, while decreasing in price. For example, the current data-rate roadmap shows HomeRF increasing from 10 Mbps to 20 Mbps, utilizing the 5 Ghz band. The 802.11 technology roadmap shows the introduction of 802.11a at 54 Mbps, also utilizing the 5 Ghz band. It is important to note that LAN data-rates are increasing much faster than wide-area data-rates, such as the data-rates provided by "last mile" technologies including DSL, DOCSIS. Wireless wide area data-rates are also improving slowly. Current digital cellular technology provides less than 64 Kbps data-rates, with most systems providing throughput in the 20 Kbps range.
While networked PCs with Internet connectivity provide greater convenience for productivity applications, there are other trends that are influencing end user's content experiencing habits. For example, Personal Video Recorders (hereafter PVRs), such as the technology provided by Tivo, of Santa Clara, Calif., are increasing in popularity. These devices are an improvement on VCR "time-shifting" functionality, allowing users to record, pause, and start live broadcast media, almost in real time. These devices digitize terrestrially broadcast television content and store the files on a hard disk drive, providing much faster random access, fast-forwarding, and rewinding. A graphical user interface is provided that allows users to make content preference selections. A PVR supports the trend toward user controlled "anytime" access to digital content.
The MP3 digital audio format is an audio encoding technology that allows consumers to further compress digital audio files such as those found on Compact Disks, to much smaller sizes with very little decrease in sound quality. The MP3 format is the audio layer of MPEG-2 digital audio and video compression and transmission standard. For example, the MP3 format allows for compression of audio content to approximately 1 million bytes per minute of audio, at near Compact Disk quality. This capability, combined with a decrease in the cost of flash memory, a type of non-volatile silicon-based mass memory, has made it possible to develop affordable, portable digital audio playback devices. These are devices that are significantly smaller than portable CD players because they contain no moving parts, only flash memory and a microprocessor for decoding MP3 compressed audio content.
PC-based MP3 software players have been created that provide a convenient graphical user interface and software decoding of MP3 files. The most popular player is the Winamp player, is provided by American Online/Time Warner. Winamp allows users to play MP3 files on their PC, using an existing sound card with external speakers. However, to listen to MP3 s the user must interface with the PC, using a mouse and keyboard, and must be nearby the PC sound output equipment.
The smaller size of MP3 encoded audio files has also enabled these files to be shared by users across the Internet, since the transfer of these files takes an acceptable amount of time. Internet-based digital music access and distribution service businesses have appeared, such as MP3.com and Napster.com, that provide various means for users to gain access to digital audio files.
In addition to music, many other types of audio content are now available in digital format, such as spoken-word content, news, commentary, and educational content. Audible.com is an Internet-based repository of digital spoken-word content. Digital files containing audio recordings of books being read aloud are available for download directly from their website.
Graphic content such as video and still images are also increasingly available. Digital still and video cameras allow the capture and rapid transfer of images. The Ceiva Picture Frame, provided by Ceiva Logic, of Los Angeles, Calif., is a product that allows users to share digital images across the Internet. The Ceiva Picture Frame is comprised of a frame housing similar to a conventional picture frame, but with a large LCD in place of a photograph. The device includes a microprocessor, memory, and modem The device must be plugged into a phone line, and it functions by automatically dialing-up to a server where new digital images are stored. Based on user instructions made through a setup function on a website, a group of photos are sent to, and stored on, and displayed by the device. The Ceiva Picture Frame is a costly item due to the fact that it includes a large LCD, and also because it must include enough memory to store the digital images. However, the Ceiva Picture Frame is an example of digital content delivered beyond the PC.
Internet access is also available through the use of wireless phones with Internet browsing capability and Personal Digital Assistants (hereafter PDAs) with wide-area wireless connections, such as the Palm VII, provided by Palm Computing of Santa Clara, Calif., or a Palm V with an OmniSky wireless modem, provided by OmniSky Corporation of San Francisco, Calif. The Palm VII uses the paging network, which provides among the lowest bandwidth connection available at approximately 2.4 Kbps. The OmniSky product uses the cellular wireless infrastructure which provides a maximum of 19.2 Kbps. Many wireless cellular phones now provide "wireless web" limited browsing capability. The slow data-rates provided by these products, as well as limited display area and awkward methods of user interaction, have resulted in slow adoption rates, and signals that users increasingly demand rich media experiences that can only be supported by broadband data-rates. Additionally, use of these products supports the trend of access to Internet content beyond the PC.
AvantGo, Inc. of San Mateo Calif. provides software that channels content from the Internet to a Palm Pilot handheld device through a PC with an Internet connection. The Palm Pilot must be docked in its cradle for the transfer to take place. The personal computer is used mainly as a communication link, as none of the content is stored on the computer, it passes through the PC and is stored on the Palm Pilot. The user removes the Palm Pilot from the cradle and then accesses the information from the last download on the Pilot. The AvantGo system does not provide for rich media experiences as the Palm Pilot is limited in its processing power and Palm Pilot does not leverage the processing power of the personal computer. Although the Palm Pilot with the AvantGo service is not a real-time Internet device, it does further support the trend of access to Internet content beyond the PC.
Cable, as well as satellite TV services are efficient in providing video content to a wide variety of users. However, most existing cable and satellite systems provide video delivery services on a broadcast model, that is, customers must choose from a set number of audio/video programs that are simultaneously broadcast, with the schedule determined by the broadcast networks. With the overlaying of data services over existing cable lines, there is the opportunity to provide a video-on-demand service whereby customers could order video programming of their choice at any time. However, a simple calculation will show that pure video-on-demand cannot be supported by the bandwidth available on the existing networks, due to the high data-rates required to transport high-quality video and audio in real-time.
The convergence of the digitization of content, combined with the proliferation and decreasing cost of networking and data processing components, is providing the opportunity to deliver rich content via the Internet, to a variety of inexpensive devices beyond the personal computer. What is required is a system that provides an economically optimal architecture and management system for allowing users to set up preferences for content of varying types, including rich content, and other services, to be automatically delivered to inexpensive client devices.
The present invention exemplifies the new and unobvious art of a system for delivering content, data, and application services to a variety of thin client devices. Briefly and generally, the system is used to provide a means for end users to program preference-based content for delivery at various client devices, and then to automatically or under the control of the user, send the content to client devices for presentation to the end user. Content from the Internet or otherwise digital content is accessed and cached locally in a server in the home or enterprise, so that wide area network bandwidth is optimized. The cached content is sent to thin client devices via a LAN communication link that is much faster than the wide area link, resulting in rich media experiences for the end user. The system also provides for inexpensive thin client devices, because the long term mass storage of content and data, and the processing of GUI instruction occurs at the local PC and/or storage gateway. The system for delivering content and services to thin client devices disclosed herein provides for a low total cost of delivering content beyond the PC, while insuring a high quality experience for the user in terms of audio and video quality, and simple interaction.
Further objects and advantages of the present invention are as follows:
First a description of the various components of the system is provided, then a description of the three functional modes. It should be noted that the functionality of the software and hardware pertinent to the invention disclosed in this document is described at several levels including at the interface level (what the end user sees and experiences) and at the action level (software and hardware interactions involving digital messages, content, and data). It is assumed that software engineers of reasonable ability would be able to program the functions described here using common programming languages and tools such as C, C++ and Java programming languages, and Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC), and other tools and development systems for other operating system such as VxWorks and Linux. Details of the software architecture are given when it is deemed to aid in the complete disclosure of the system.
The system disclosed herein provides a communication connection and a content and data management system comprised of software and hardware on three different computing platforms: (1) the Internet 8, (2) a local PC 34 or PC 34 and a storage gateway 38, and (3) the local client devices 78 a, b, c, and d.
Referring again to
Web Content Guide
Referring again to
Content 10 on Internet 8 is arranged for delivery to local client devices 78 a, b, c, and d by a system that allows for graphical icons, referred to in this disclosure as content objects 20, that exist on content selection web page 22, to be dragged and dropped onto content editors on a PC 34. Drag and droppable content object 20 is a graphical representation of a file system path that points to a digital content file stored locally on hard disk drive 30 on PC 34 or on storage gateway 38, or on a server on Internet 8, or is the graphical designation of a URL or IP address and port number of an digital content stream originating on a server on Internet 8. The purpose of the portal is to simplify and facilitate the discovery and selection of content 10 from Internet 8 for later use on client devices 78.
Content selection web page 22 capability may include, but is not limited to the following functionality:
Content 10 from Internet 8 that may be used in the system disclosed here may be selected from a wide range of content selection web pages 22, that may be formatted differently, and may be available from many different content creators and content aggregators. Content creators include for example the music labels, such as EMI or BMG, both of New York, N.Y., that is, firms whose business it is to create or commission to create, and own content. Content aggregators are firms whose business it is to collect certain types of content, such as digital music, for the purpose of enabling ease of selection by end users and distribution. Examples of content aggregators are MP3.com, or Listen.com.
The capability for determining and aggregating the content objects 20 presented to a specific user on content selection web pages 22 are derived from content preferences selections provided by the user. For example, referring now to
System Control Application
Referring now to
Core module 42 and GUI module 46 access and modify the system control application database 96 using methods called over HTTP and expressed with XML grammar. System control application database 96 is a set of files that contain system parameters and data For example, a track (song name) shown in audio device content editor 24 is referenced as a file name and a path designation a particular hard disk drive 30 on either of PC 34 or storage gateway 38, in a listing in system control application database 96. Actions that are taken, such as playing this file, are triggered by XML messages 74 sent from client devices 78 via LAN 70 or from GUI module 46 to core modules(s) 42 over HTTP.
The GUI module consists of segments of the software application that run the GUI, including, but not limited to, the following functions:
Core module 42 consists of the portion of the system control application 18 that acts on content and data 10 from Internet 8 and also processes commands contained in messages sent from client devices 78, providing, but not limited to, the following functions:
System control application 18 and system control application database 96 are designed to function with a number of instances of core module 42 and GUI module 46 running concurrently on multiple PCs 34 and or storage gateways 38, all connected by the same LAN 70. It is anticipated that users will own and operate multiple PCs 34 in a single home for example, with different content 10 cached on each PC 34. However, for the purpose of simplicity in describing the basic functionality of the system, the preferred embodiment will focus will be on a singular GUI nodule located and executed on a PC.
Client Devices
Client devices 78 can take many physical forms but the common attribute is that it client devices 78 are nodes on LAN 70, receiving digital content and data 10, and instructions, from core module 42 subsystem of the system control application 18, and sending back XML message 74 control instructions and data from interaction or data that originates at client devices 78. In the preferred embodiment client devices 78 include webpad 92, audio playback device 86, Internet clock 82, digital picture frame 100, and automotive storage device 142. Generally, client devices depend on LAN 70 connectivity to provide the majority of their functionality. Client devices 78 range widely in the amount of integral memory capability. For purposes of clarity, the preferred embodiment shows in detail how content is set up, organized, and scheduled for delivery to two media player devices: audio playback device 86 that is connected to a stereo receiver 115, and Internet connected clock 82. However, it should be clearly understood that the system is designed to function with a wide variety of networked client devices 78 and audio playback device 86 and Internet clock 82 are described as examples of how the system functions.
Audio playback device 86 remote control 90 includes button controls for the following functions: Power button 196—for powering the device on and off; Source/User button 204—for selecting the user (owner of playlists and corresponding tracks) or for selecting storage gateway 38, PCs 34, or terrestrial broadcast, from which content 10 from Internet 8 or other terrestrial content will be delivered; Playlist forward button 176 and playlist back button 172—for advancing through and selecting playlists; Track forward button 184 and track backward button 180—for advancing through and selecting tracks for playback; Play/Pause button 192—for starting and pausing (stopping at point in the middle of a playback of an audio file); Stop button 200—for stopping playback of audio content; Tag button 188—for triggering the transmission of information about a currently playing track (file, Internet 8 stream, or terrestrial broadcast) back through the system for delivery to the end user on a website or for delivery to the content creator or content originator; User-defined button 206—This button may be associated with a variety of functions as selected by the user using the audio playback device setup GUI.
The text descriptors associated with the playlists and associated tracks are sent to audio playback device 86 when requests are made by button activations. For example, if the user activates forward playlist button 176, the text string for the next playlist after the one that is currently being played is sent to audio playback device 86 via LAN 70, is processed, and the text is displayed on display 170. Likewise if forward-track button 184 is activated, the text string that is the name of the next sequential file from the current playlist stored in system control application database 96 located on storage gateway 38 or PC 34, is sent by core module 38 to audio playback device 86, where the text string is displayed on display 170. If play button 192 is then activated, the currently playing track is halted and the track that is being displayed is sent, decoded, and played through the stereo system. The functional interface to the user of audio playback device 86 is similar to that found on a typical CD changer, where the CD represents the playlist, and the tracks on the CD represent the tracks in the playlist.
Internet clock 82 includes microprocessor 156 and memory 140 sufficient to receive and decode a full-motion video stream. Internet clock 82 also contains an integral sound system consisting of an amplifier and speakers 136. Therefore Internet clock 82 is capable of presenting audio, video, and interactive multimedia The digital electronics and packaging technology for such a devices is well known in the consumer electronics industry, so it will not be described in greater detail.
There are three functional modes: (1) setup, (2) real-time user controlled content/data delivery, and (3) automatic content/data delivery.
The setup functions provide the user with the ability to organize and manage content that is to be sent to a device. Content 10 may be stored or generated on Internet 8, or may exist on a local storage device, such on the PC's 34 hard disk drive 30, or on storage gateway 38. This content is organized and managed with the use of device content editors that are an aspect of GUI module 46 of system control application 18.
A content editor is a part of GUI module 46 and is used for managing and manipulating content 10 that will be sent to networked client device 78. The preferred embodiment will describe audio device content editor 24, used to program and control content 10 for audio playback device 86; and Internet clock content editor 40, used to program and control content for Internet clock 82. Content editors are launched from console 16. This action is explained later in this disclosure.
Audio device content editor 24 provides the user with the ability to group audio files (tracks) into user-defined playlists, which are text association that contains a list of and paths to audio files or the URLs or IP addresses of audio streams, and are stored in system control application database 96. For example, a user may create a playlist called "Classical Music" that contains ten Beethoven symphonies. A common type of audio file format is the MP3 (MPEG layer 3) format. Certain tracks such as MP3 music files are stored on hard disk drive 30 on PC 34, while other tracks such as streamed Internet 8 radio, are stored as URLS or IP addresses. Streamed media can be in a variety of formats. A popular format is in the Windows Media format, created by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Oreg. The audio device content editor 24 capability includes, but is not limited to, the following functionality:
The interaction between audio device content editor 24 and the other elements of the system will be discussed later.
The function of Internet clock content editor 40 is to manage content 10 that is associated with a scheduled routine, such as a wakeup routine. Internet clock content editor 40 allows the user to associate content 10 such as audio or video files (stored on the user's hard disk drive 30 or streamed over Internet 8) with an associated time and date. A set of content selections for the one-week period shown on Internet clock content editor in
The Internet clock content editor 40 capability includes, but is not limited to the following functionality:
Both audio device content editor 24 and Internet clock content editor 40 are launched manually by the user by clicking on the associated client device control bar 26 on console 16.
PC desktop 12 in
The spherical icons on content selection web page 22 are content objects 20 that are dragged and dropped onto the audio device content editor 24 tracks window 66. Using the mouse to control the pointer on PC desktop 12, the user moves the pointer on top of content object 20, depresses the left mouse button, and moves the pointer-content object 20 bundle to tracks window 66 of audio device content editor 24 (while continuing to depress the left mouse button). When the user releases the left mouse button, a text description of content object 20 appears in tracks window 66 of audio device content editor 24.
On the software action level, when a user creates or modifies a playlist by adding tracks such as described above using audio device content editor 24, GUI module 46 modifies system control application database 96, a file that contains the text names of playlists, the file names and paths of local content files, and URLs of streams, that the user has selected as tracks. A copy of system control application database 96 is stored on both the PC's hard disk drive and on the storage gateway's hard disk drive. In the preferred embodiment, a portion of the files that are set up by the user as tracks in playlists that are accessed at audio playback device 86 are stored on storage gateway 38. In this scenario, the user can still access tracks stored on storage gateway 38 at audio playback device 86 if PC 34 has been shutdown. The system may also function with the some or all of the files that constitute the tracks listed in audio device content editor 24 stored on the PC 34. It is obvious that PC 34 must be booted and functioning for the user to access any files stored on PC 34. The action of accessing those files at audio playback device 86 is discussed below.
In setup mode, GUI module 46 receives commands from the user via the GUI that is drawn on PC desktop 12. The user's actions and decisions are recorded by device content editors such as Internet clock content editor 40 and audio device content editor 24 which comprise GUI module 46, are encoded as digitally described messages, and are then communicated to and stored in system control application database 96 by core module 42. In the preferred embodiment, where core module 42 exists as a JAVA software program on storage gateway 38, content 10, the playlists, and names of tracks and stream addresses, are stored on hard disk drive 30 at storage gateway 38. PC 34 also contains a copy of system control application database 96.
In real-time mode, the user can activate and control the delivery of content 10 that has been set-up in audio device content editor 24, either at audio playback device 86, or at PC 34. In the preferred embodiment where audio playback device 86 is connected to stereo receiver 115, the user can access the playlist information on an interface at audio playback device 86.
When play button 192 is pressed, again IR subsystem 104 triggers XML formatted message 74 to be sent to core module 42 stating that play button 192 was activated. Core module 42 determines the present file or stream listing on audio playback device 86 display 170, and initiates a stream of that file or Internet 8 stream to audio playback device 86.
The other method for controlling client devices is to use a device controller GUI on PC 34. Device controllers are launched from console 16 by right clicking on client device control bar 26 on console 16 associated with the specific device that is to be controlled.
The following is a list of controls and features for audio playback device controller 60: a play/pause button 80 (holding down play button causes the player to fast forward, playing brief samples of the audio file at muted volume); a stop button 76; a track backward button 72; a track forward button 84; a balance slider 98.
The following is a list of controls for features on Internet clock controller 88: ramp display back light during wakeup routine (slowly increase the light of the display during the wakeup routine); ramp audio volume during wakeup routine (slowly increase the volume of the device during the wakeup routine; length of dwell time for snooze button (the length of time that Internet clock 82 is dormant after snooze button 120 is activated; deactivate snooze button 120 (no snoozing); length of time for sleep mode (the length of time Internet clock 82 will play content 10 when activated at night while the user is falling asleep). The function controls now shown in
In automatic mode, content 10 that the user has selected for playback in the content editor is sent automatically to the playback device, based on some prescribed time setting that was pre-set by the user. A scheduling function in core module 42 compares time inputs listed in system control application database 96 with the current state of PC 34 system timer. When a match occurs between a time input in system control application database 96 and the current state of PC 34 system timer, core module 42 initiates the delivery of content 10 to client device 78. In the case where content 10 is a stream from a URL on Internet 8, a connection is created by core module 42 between the streaming URL via broadband communication link 14, through storage gateway 38, and via LAN 70 to client device 78.
Certain content objects 20 designate a location for file-based content 10 that changes on a regular basis. In this case, a specific file is a content object 20 instance that is cached on local PC 34 or storage gateway 38 and streamed to client device 78. For example, content 10 for Internet clock 82 may include a digital audio file with news located on a server on Internet 8 that may be updated every four hours. If content object 20 instance is a file designation that is not local, the scheduling function in core module 42 will periodically check the file at its location on Internet 8 to see if the file has changed. It will do this by comparing the locally cached file's creation date and title, and other file information, with the file located on Internet 8. If the file's creation date and/or title has changed, the new file will be downloaded and stored on PC 34 or storage gateway 38, so that the latest file can be sent to client device 78 at the prescribed time. This is part of the scheduling function listed in core module 42 functions in
Storage gateway 38 is an "always-on" device. Therefore the scheduling function running on core module 42 on storage gateway 38 can be set to automatically access and acquire content 10 on Internet 8 at times when wide area network bandwidth is less expensive, such as overnight or during midday. Core module 42 on storage gateway 38 call also limit data-rates at certain times to further optimize wide area network bandwidth usage. For example, core module 42 can be limited to download data-rate speeds of 200 Kbps during the hours of 4 pm to 10 pm, and allowed to download at the maximum broadband rate any other time. This download optimization setting can be set by users, who may want access to bandwidth while they are home in the evening, or it may be set by network operators. These data-rate control settings and times may be set using a network bandwidth optimization control GUI, accessible by user at PC 34 or by network operators remotely. The data-rate control settings and times are stored in system control application database 96.
Because LAN 70 technology is a two-way interconnection technology, responses from client devices 78 can be sent back through the system and processed and presented to the user and other interested entities at both PC 34 and on the web.
The transmission of tag XML message 74 can have different results.
The tagging function requires that core module 42 always have access to accurate time and date information.
An alternative embodiment of this system includes the TV as an output device for using GUI module 46 aspect of system control application 18. In this embodiment, system control application 18 resides on a set-top box that includes the components and functionality of storage gateway 38. Set-top boxes are available that include a DOCSIS cable modem as well as a CATV tuner, hard disk drive 30, and microprocessor 280. In this system, the TV can be used as the output device on which the device control GUIs are visually presented, and a set top box remote control with a cursor pointing function is the input device. The GUI images look and function virtually identically to those shown in
A storage gateway peripheral 134 is defined as a computer with a integral hard disk drive 30 and processing capability, and an integral wireless LAN transceiver 58 to provide LAN 70 connectivity, that is added to an existing gateway 150 device for the purpose of adding content 10 mass storage and serving capability.
The content editors can be programmed and executed across the network as Java applications stored on storage gateways 38 or on a storage gateway peripheral 134 device. The advantage of this is that any computer with a display and input peripherals such as a keyboard and a mouse, and that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM), would be a viable client device content programming, set-up, and control workstation. This embodiment could also be implemented so that it was entirely browser-based. A user could access the device content editors within a browser window, with the application running as a Java applet.
Another device that can exist as a client device in this platform is digital picture frame 100. One implementation of digital picture frame functionality is to set up Internet clock 82 to present a timed sequence of digital images on LCD 132 when Internet clock 82 is not being used for presentation of other content 10. Internet clock 82 can be set up to present digital images either automatically or under direct control of the user.
The user could attach a digital image to one of the softkey buttons located on Internet clock 82. A separate GUI, the digital image editor 102 would be accessed via the left-mouse-click on Internet clock 82 client device control bar 26 located on console 16. Launching this editor is similar to launching audio device content editor 24, described previously.
Alternatively, dedicated digital picture frame 100 can be used to display digital images. Referring again to
The system for providing content distribution, management, and interactivity for thin client devices can also be used to access, store, and serve digital video, such as movies, TV shows, and other video content. User's make selections on a web site as disclosed herein. Digital video files, such as DVD movies are then downloaded and stored on user's PC 34, storage gateway 38, or storage gateway peripheral 134. The digital video files would then be sent to a client device 78 that is a TV, or any other client device that can decode and present digital video. For example, a PDA with a wireless LAN 70 capability and the ability to decode MPEG-2 video would be a viable terminal client device 78. The advantage of this system, as opposed to streaming digital video directly from a cable headend or DSL ISP is that is makes better use of network bandwidth Digital video files are very large, potentially several giga-bytes (billions of bytes). The downloading of these large files can be spread out over a longer period of time than would be required if the digital video files are streamed and viewed in real-time. The digital video files can always be downloading during periods of inactivity on wide area broadband communications connection 14. Additionally, the download data-rates can be controlled based on the time of day. For example, core module 42 includes a data-rate control function described in this disclosure. The allowable data-rate can be reduced for peak times of wide area network usage, and can be increased during off-peak times.
The system for providing content and other information services to thin client devices can be implemented with just PC 34. System control application 18 resides on hard disk drive 30 on PC 34 and provides all of the functions and features including those provided by core module 42 and GUI module 46. System control application database 96 also resides on PC 34, as well as all cached content 10. In this embodiment, LAN 70 is established by the use of a HomeRF wireless LAN access point 54. The wireless LAN access point 54 is a self-contained device that communicates with PC 34 via the USB port. Wireless LAN access point 54 includes an RF network interface transceiver 58, and a microprocessor 116 and firmware for managing the transfer of data between host PC 34, and an antenna 112. There is also an antenna integrated into a plastic housing. Wireless LAN access point 54 gets its power from the USB connection. In this embodiment, the wireless LAN access point 54 could also be incorporated into an internal add-on bus card, such as a card that would attach to the PCI bus. Such peripheral bus cards are well known in the field of PC design. In the case of a bus card, there would be an external antenna.
The automated services function of core module 42, whereby content 10 is automatically accessed, downloaded and cached on PC 34, and whereby content 10 is automatically streamed to client devices 78, is facilitated if PC 34 is always on, or if PC 34 can be automatically turned on (booted). PC 34 includes a Basic Input Output System (hereafter BIOS) for controlling the basic functions of the system. The BIOS may also be used to automate the booting of PC 34. In the implementation whereby PC 34 boots automatically, system control application 18 includes software that can modify the BIOS software of PC 34 so that automatic pre-scheduled activation of PC 34 is enabled. Subsequent control of PC 34 to connect to the Internet 10 and perform operations, is also provided by the scheduling function in core module 42. The BIOS consists of a set of instructions and data that the microprocessor uses as part of its initial sequence of operation. These instructions are stored in a BIOS flash memory chip, which is a non-volatile type of memory chip, so that the instructions and data are retained when power to the computer is turned off. BIOS software and design, as well as reprogrammable flash memory technology, is well known in the PC industry and will not be described in detail here. The date and time that the computer uses for various purposes is a function that is controlled by the BIOS chip and interface. Typically, a PC motherboard includes a timer and date function that is backed up by a battery on the motherboard. The purpose of this system is so that when the computer is turned on, the operating system has access to accurate time and date information. Since the time and date (timer) function is always operating on a computer motherboard, and this system is connected to the BIOS, most BIOS systems include an automated wakeup function. This is a function that operates internal to the BIOS chip and can be activated or de-activated. If the automatic wake-up function is turned on and a specific time and date is entered and stored in the BIOS memory, a software function operating in the BIOS continually compares the current date and time with a designated wake-up time and function that is stored in memory. When the two times and dates match, a power-on command is given and PC 34 power-up sequence begins. The BIOS modification software automatically modifies the BIOS from the OS level, so that the user doesn't have to access the BIOS during the early phase of PC 34 boot.
Another function that is performed by the BIOS modification software is to modify the internal settings of PC 34 that control the power saving modes and control parameters which include parameters such as when the PC display is turned off, and when drives are spun down while PC 34 is operating. The BIOS modification software allows for the "always-on" operation of PC 34. In this case, the PC can be put into a low-power mode with monitor off and with the drive not spinning. Control of various power saving modes is also provided for users at the operating system level. The Advanced Configuration and Power Interface, created by Intel of Santa Clara, Calif. is a set of functions that provide control of PC 34 power usage, allowing the computer to be put into various suspend states, as well as spinning down drives and other functions. Power control functions in core module 42 modify ACPI settings, providing for quiet, low power operation of PC 34.
The function of this embodiment will now be described. PC 34 exists in the user's home, or other location where there is a desire for the ability to play Internet 8 content or data 10, including multimedia content, on one or more standalone devices apart from PC 34. There is a setup activity for the system, requiring several one-time actions by the user. Then there is an actual use scenario. Referring now to
PC 34 is booted (started up) and a connection to Internet 8 is made. This is achieved by using the dial-up networking function that is standard on any machine with the Windows operating system. This connection could also be an always-on DSL, ISDN, or cable modem connection. Once a connection is made to Internet 8, browser software is started and the user would navigate to a specific information appliance setup website associated with the system and the devices. This website would have a particular URL that would be supplied in the instruction materials that come with wireless LAN access point 54 or client device 78. Using the browser, or other interface to the website server, the user would navigate to a setup page at the website that asks for a serial number of client device 78 that the user is planning to use. The user would then connect the USB cable on wireless LAN access point 54 to the USB port on PC 34. The user would then enter this serial number, which is included in the documentation that is included with the end-user device. The online application has a database of these serial numbers that are associated with each individual manufactured client device 78 (including both wireless LAN access point 54 and client device 78) that are distributed into the market. Once a match is made between the serial number that the user entered at the website, and a serial number that is included in the online database, an online application automatically begins downloading and installing system control application 18 to user's PC 34. This software is installed on user's PC 34 and provides the following functions.
A scheduling function determines when PC 34 automatically connects to the Internet. If PC 34 is running in a power saving mode, such as with the display turned off and with the drives not spinning, the scheduling function will initially act to take the PC 34 out of power saving mode, and then to automatically connect to the Internet using the Dialup Action. Many users will already have PC 34 set up to dial up to an Internet service provider (ISP). In this case, the dialup networking function that already exists will be used. If the user does not have this installed on PC 34, an application is included that will install the correct dialup information, so that a connection is made to the correct ISP and server.
At 12 am, PC 34 automatically boots and dials up the ISP. An Internet 8 connection is established. PC 34 automatically connects to the web server associated with client device 78. Here the user's account is referenced as well as the identifying serial number of user's client device 78. A volume of content 10 that the user specified to be automatically delivered to Internet clock 82 is downloaded to user's PC 34, where it is stored on the PC 34 hard disk drive 30. After the content has completely downloaded, PC 34 terminates the connection to the ISP, and shuts down. This occurs at 1:30 am. At this point PC 34 may also be kept on, as selected by the user during the configuration of the system.
At 5:30 am, the PC again automatically boots. The wireless communication system establishes a connection to Internet clock 82. At 6:00 am, the specified wake up time of the user, PC 34 initiates the transfer of content to Internet clock 82. This content is presented to the user as sound and images, waking up the user.
In an alternative embodiment there is a website that is accessed for the purpose of downloading and setting up the system control application 18 on PC 34, and for controlling the content that is sent to client devices 78, and for controlling the features of client devices 78. This website is accessible from any computer that is connected to the Internet 8 and includes a browser. The website also contains a database for storing the content preferences of the user or owner of client devices 78. These content preferences include pointers to the locations of the content entities, such as audio files, video files, or text files, on Internet 8 that the user had specified to be played on client device 78. The website could also include a server-based version of system control application 18 that would retrieve and store content and data according to user preferences on the web.
In this embodiment, client device 78 is a portable computing device referred to as a webpad 92, able to be carried around the house or within range of LAN 70. Webpad 92 includes a set of rechargeable batteries and a battery recharging system. There is also a dock into which the webpad 92 is placed during times when it is not used. When it is docked, there are electrical contacts in the dock that make contact with the electrical contacts on webpad 92 and the batteries are recharged. Webpad 92 also has stored in its non-volatile memory an identifying serial number, which is used to identify webpad 92 on the wireless network, and is also used to coordinate the content that is specified by the user to be sent to and cached at the local PC 34, and ultimately sent wirelessly to webpad 92. For example, users can access cached content on PC 34 or storage gateway 38 such as digital, searchable Yellow Pages or White Pages, and other reference databases. Additionally, webpad 92 can access the Internet 8 via PC 34 or storage gateway 38, utilizing PC 34 or storage gateway 38 as a router.
Furthermore, webpad 92 can be used to control other client devices 78. For example, a webpad 92 version of audio device content editor and audio device controller GUI allow the user to access playlists and tracks, and control audio playback device 86 in real time while away from PC 34. XML messages 74 are sent from webpad 92 to PC 34 or storage gateway 38, processed by core module 42, and appropriate XML messages are sent to audio playback device 86.
LAN 70 could be implemented with a number of different of wireless systems such as 802.11b, 802.11a, or Bluetooth. The wireless communication system could be a 900 Mhz system used on many cordless phones. The system could be implemented with a phone line network system where the house wiring is used as the network physical layer for communication between PC 34 and client devices 78. The system could be implemented using an AC power line networking technology that uses the AC wiring in the home as the network physical layer. It should be noted also, that the system will work with any type of connection to the internet, including other broadband technologies such as DSL or fixed wireless, or a dialup modem connection.
A phone that includes a microprocessor, memory, and network interface is also a client device. The content 10 that would be transferred to it would be the digital address books, such as those that are a part of PDA databases and desktop organizer software, such as Palm Desktop or Microsoft Outlook. The phone numbers from these personal information managers, and other relevant phone numbers could be downloaded from the web and cached at the PC, and subsequently transferred to the phone database, so that dialing can be made much easier.
Patent Citations
Non-Patent Citations
Referenced by
Legal Events
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text:
Report on investment of state corps and economic groups
Statistics of the finance ministry showed that among 70 state corporations and economic groups, 28 corporations contributed total 23.344 trillion dong in the setting up of securities companies, commercial banks, fund management companies, insurance and real estate firms.
These enterprises mobilised external capital amount higher 1.4 times than their ownership capital, typically, Traffic Work Construction Corp No 5 (Cienco 5) with 42 times, Vinashin 21 times.
Reported by the Steering Committee for Enterprise Renovation and Development, until December 31, 2007, 16 state economic groups and corporations had invested 4.965 trillion dong in banking sector, nine corps and groups poured 316 billion dong in the stock market, 12 others pumped 6.518 trillion dong in the finance and insurance field, 933 billion dong invested in investment funds, and 2.331 trillion dong in real estate market.
Because the state businesses are holding the national power, so the aforementioned investment resulted in narrowing the role of other enterprises and economic areas.
Category: Legal

subset: commoncrawl


text:
# #
USA celebrates a "Royal" holiday wedding – that is, the long planned nuptials of Evan (Paulo Costanzo) and Paige (Brooke D'Orsay) – in a special ROYAL PAINS two-hour movie event "Off-Season Greetings," featuring revealing flashbacks, an unexpected snowstorm and a reunion of old friends. In this special presentation of ROYAL PAINS, secrets from the past are revealed in a series of flashbacks in which fans learn the back-story of the Lawson brothers – Hank and Evan – prior to their move out east, before HankMed was ever conceived. When we first met Hank in season one, he had been fired from his job as an ER doctor, his fiancée had left him and he was alone and depressed before a weekend in the Hamptons changed his life. We'll meet Hank's first love (guest star Emma Caulfield) and learn how Hank's past romances and his relationship with Evan made him the man he is today. The episode will also mark the return of Jill Casey (Jill Flint), who left the Hamptons at the beginning of season four to follow her dream of working in a clinic in Africa. As the wedding approaches, Evan and Hank head to Las Vegas for some bachelor party fun, while Paige and Divya (Reshma Shetty) travel out of town for her bachelorette party. Through circumstances beyond their control, both parties end up in Las Vegas where surprises abound and someone takes a big gamble on the future. And with a snowstorm descending on the Hamptons, Paige rapidly finds her dream wedding turning into a nightmare.
Before the big event you can play wedding planner for Evan and Paige's special day by sharing your opinion on key pieces for the event like Paige's dress and the cake on the Royal Pains Facebook page. And on the big day make sure to Tweet about the event with the hashtag #RoyalWedding
Royal Pains – Royal Wedding Prize Pack ($106 value)
Royal Pains Winter Beanie
DVD Cinch Bag
Royal Pains Seasons 1-3 DVDs
Hamptons Dictionary
Royal Pains Playing Cards


text:
- Willamette
- Athletics
- News Archive
- 2013
- Willamette at Second Day of NWC Track and Field Championships
Track and Field | Saturday, April 27, 2013
Bearcats Win Five Events on Second Day of NWC Championships
Willamette Men and Women Both Finish Second in Team Standings
SALEM, ORE. -- Willamette University won five events, including two relays, on the final day of competition at the 2013 Northwest Conference Track and Field Championships at the Charles Bowles Track on Saturday, April 27. The Bearcats won the men's 4 x 100-meter relay in 42.06 seconds and took first place in the women's 4 x 400-meter relay in 4:00.39.
Bekah Daniel (So., Silverdale, WA/Central Kitsap HS) won the triple jump at 37' 4". Erynn Rebol (Sr., Cottonwood, CA/Red Bluff Union HS) earned first place in the 800-meter run for the second time in her career at 2:15.31. Tom Fiechtner (Jr., Poway, CA/Cathedral HS) was victorious in the men's 200-meter dash with a time of 22.10 seconds.
The Bearcats earned six championships overall, including a win by Michaela Freeby (So., Milwaukie, OR/Rex Putnam HS) in the women's 3,000-meter steeplechase on Friday.
Team Standings
Willamette finished second in the men's team standings and was second in the women's team standings.
Whitworth won the men's title with 287 points, while Willamette finished with 132 points and Pacific University was third with 122 points. It was the Pirates' fourth straight championship.
Pacific Lutheran University was fourth in the men's standings with 95 points. University of Puget Sound placed fifth at 64, with Lewis & Clark in sixth at 55, George Fox University in seventh at 47 and Linfield College in eighth at 16.
George Fox achieved the women's team championship with 188.5 points, winning by just eight points over the Bearcats, who scored 180.5 points. It was GFU's third consecutive championship.
Whitworth placed third in the women's standings with 150 points, while Lewis & Clark was fourth with 80 points. Pacific Lutheran took fifth at 74, Linfield was sixth at 72, Puget Sound was seventh at 41 and Pacific was eighth at 33.
Willamette's NWC Champions
The Willamette men's 4 x 100-meter relay team moved into second place on the Bearcats' top 10 list by winning the race in 42.06 seconds, just .07 away from the school record set in 1992.
Running in Saturday's relay were Fiechtner, Chris Luetjen (Jr., Lake Oswego, OR/Lake Oswego HS), Matt Paparella (Fr., Glendale, AZ/Ironwood HS) and Dylan Jones (Fr., Santa Maria, CA/Ernest Righetti HS). Each runner provided a strong leg during the relay, which allowed WU to win by nearly half a second over Whitworth, which finished second in 42.54 seconds.
Fiechtner's 22.10 in the 200-meter dash was .33 in front of Michael Zane of Pacific, who was second in 22.43. Matthew Landon of Whitworth was third in 22.54 and Jones of Willamette was fourth in 22.55. Fiechtner set a personal record of 22.00 during the prelims.
Daniel recorded her top distance of 37' 4" on her first attempt in the finals for a personal record. Rachael Adkins from George Fox took second at 37' 1.75". Rachel Palmquist of Whitworth was third at 36' 11.50" and Elisa Ahern (So., Lake Forest Park, WA/Shorecrest HS) of Willamette was fourth at 36' 9".
Rebol's time of 2:15.31 in the 800-meter run broke her previous personal record by exactly one second. She led a 1-2 finish for the Bearcats. Stevie Gildehaus (Sr., Spokane Valley, WA/University HS) took second place, while setting a personal record at 2:18.67. Rebol previously won an NWC Championship in the 800-meter run as a freshman in 2010.
It was a busy day for Rebol and Daniel. In addition to winning the 800, Rebol took fifth place in the 1,500-meter run in a personal record of 4:45.53, and ran the anchor leg on Willamette's victorious 4 x 400-meter relay team.
Daniel triumphed in the triple jump, ran the third leg on the 4 x 400-meter relay, and placed third in the 100-meter hurdles with a personal record of 15.26 seconds. Daniel was just .06 out of first place in the hurdles.
Freeby's win on Friday was her second NWC title in the steeplechase. It was the eighth consecutive year that a WU runner has won the event.
Bearcats Earn Second Place Finishes
Athletes on both of Willamette's teams placed second in several events on Saturday.
Jones was second in the men's 100-meter dash in 11.05 seconds. I.V. Reeves of Pacific Lutheran won the race in 10.94 seconds.
Fiechtner achieved second place in a close finish with Nick Gosselin from Whitworth in the 400-meter dash. Gosselin took first place in 49.39 seconds and Fiechtner followed in 49.47 seconds.
Kit Kingstad (Jr., Beaverton, OR/Beaverton HS) was edged out by Jarrod Nixon of Lewis & Clark by just .03 in the 800-meter run. Nixon was timed at 4:00.31 and Kingstad was clocked at 4:00.34. Daniel Swanson (So., Seattle, WA/Roosevelt HS) of WU was third in 4:00.68.
Carson Kennedy (So., Forest Grove, OR/Forest Grove HS) placed second in the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 15.50 seconds. Casey Monahan of Whitworth was first in 14.94 seconds. Kennedy also took second place in the triple jump with a personal record of 44' 4". He was second in the long jump on Friday and placed second in the decathlon April 15-16.
Willamette placed second in the 4 x 400-meter relay in 3:22.47. Competing for the Bearcats were Kennedy, Jeff Schreiner-McGraw (So., Philomath, OR/Philomath HS), Nick Celebrezze (Fr., Moscow, ID/Moscow HS) and Fiechtner. Whitworth won the relay in 3:20.35.
In the women's 400-meter dash, Ashland Bernard (Fr., Kirkland, WA/Juanita HS) was second in 59.48 seconds, breaking the personal record she set in the prelims at 59.76. Rachael Kraske of George Fox won the 400 in 58.82.
Gildehaus was second in the 800-meter run (see above) and Freeby was second in the 5,000-meter run with a personal record of 18:09.40.
NWC Special Awards
Thrower Carter Comito of Whitworth was chosen Men's Field Athlete of the Meet and distance runner Tyler Shipley of Pacific was named Men's Track Athlete of the Meet. Whitworth Head Coach Toby Schwarz was selected as the Men's Coach of the Year for the fourth consecutive season and the seventh time overall.
Comito set the NWC meet record and the Charles Bowles Track record in the discus on Friday at 195' 3.25". On Saturday, he broke the NWC meet record and his won overall NWC record in the shot put with a toss of 59' 2". His previous conference record was 58' 9.25".
George Fox heptathlete Beth Stam was named Women's Field Athlete of the Meet. Distance runner Emily Thomas from Lewis & Clark was selected Women's Track Athlete of the Meet. GFU Head Coach John Smith received Women's Coach of the Year honors for the fourth season in a row.
Northwest Conference
Track & Field Championships
Charles Bowles Track
Salem, Ore.
April 26-27, 2013


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Re: "This has to make many wonder what Ford could possibly be planning to do with this technology when it comes to computers and automotive."
Ford could dump their (apparently terrible) SYNC system eventually. Reuters reported yesterday that Ford cars' JD Power customer satisfaction rating slipped from 23rd last year to 27th this year. Mostly because of the hard-to-use on-board computing systems' GUI. (Which, by the way, runs on Microsoft Windows Embedded Automotive OS. Surprise!)
So what would Ford replace SYNC with? How about 'Eyes Free', as Apple calls it. Push a button on the steering wheel and talk to Siri. GM is planning to use Eyes Free technology in the Chevy Sonic and 2013 Spark. I've seen photos of an Eyes Free button on a BMW steering wheel, so presumably other manufacturers are planning to roll it out.
Apple just announced Passbook mobile contactless ID / ticketing for iOS 6. Put the Eyes Free / Siri together with Passbook and you might see where automotive embedded computing is headed.
Ingenious Bluetooth password management comes to iPhone via Ford Keyfree
Ford has created a password management app for iPhone that implements Bluetooth technology to wirelessly manage passwords, and automatically log you in when within range of your computer.
Ford and many other car manufacturers have long used NFC technology to allow drivers to get into their cars without having to bother with a key. Ford is now bringing a simliar technology to mobile devices and computer browsers with their Ford Keyfree system. We're not exactly sure how this promotes their keyless car entry but it's definitely ingenious.
Ford Keyfree will function as a Chrome browser extension that will save your Facebook, Google, and Twitter passwords. When you're within range of your computer with an approved smartphone like the iPhone, it will unlock all your sites and auto-fill passwords. This means no more manually entering passwords.
Of course there are apps that store passwords and create generated ones like DataVault and 1Password but Keysfree seems to take it one step further. You won't actually have to enter any information. If your iPhone is within range of your computer and you've got the extension installed, you can just navigate wherever you'd like to go and you'll be signed in and ready to work. Your iPhone will server as the unique ID since Bluetooth technology can offer individual identifiers on a per-device basis.
This has to make many wonder what Ford could possibly be planning to do with this technology when it comes to computers and automotive. It'd be silly for this not to have something to do with any of their main product line at some point in time.
For now the app is only available in France but you can check out the demo video below to see how the system actually works.
Source: Co.Design
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Reader comments
Ingenious Bluetooth password management comes to iPhone via Ford Keyfree
Re: "This has to make many wonder what Ford could possibly be planning to do with this technology when it comes to computers and automotive."
The reason sync is getting bad reviews is cause bunch of oldies who don't even know how to turn Bluetooth on/off on their phone.
Sync specially with the MyFordTouch system is the best hands free system in a vehicle. I use it daily and it is a lot more reliable than Siri. Ford will never replace their system with Siri that doesn't even work half the time.
This is just the begining. Ford will (soon) allow you to program your cars key into your iPhone to be able to unlock your car when you approach your vehicle :)
I like this idea a lot.
Yes, all browsers and programs on your computer can auto save passwords, but how many are secure from other people actually opening the browser and looking at your personal information. None.
If this works like I hope, you will never have to save a password on your PC again and only keep them securely on your iPhone; until within range of your PC. Now, that is of course if you can keep your iPhone from other people. There are many ways to keep your passwords and usernames safe, of course, especially if Jailbroken.
And how come other countries get it before us? Lol Did Ford France create this awesome tech. Kudos to them, if so.
This is a great application - and it could be that some smart engineer at Ford designed it just because they could. However, the genius bit is how this works as a brand tool. In Europe (at least), Ford is seen as mid-tier. It doesn't have much brand cool in the way that Merc, BMW etc. do and yet their product is generally good value for money. So they need to find ways to create a brand relationship with the high-disposable-income crowd - which is pretty much the iPhone crowd :-)
So I think in terms of moving their brand into the right space this is ideal - it has to be something special, and it is. It gets people doing something cool that connects to what they could do with the Car, comfortable with their relationship with Ford...and BAM...we've got ourselves the potential for a purchasing decision through that link.
I agree, however after driving my mom's car which has keyless entry/push button start, I have to admit that it is quite awesome! Now to get the app made for opening home doors without expensive equipment.


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Site: Scottfarmer.info
Pagelines Frameworks (latest version)
Issue: Centering Boxes
Page: www.scottfarmer.info/page-design
Im using 3 boxes and would like them centered on the page and NOT spread across the width of the page.
Right now they want to space themselves out.
I cannot find the control to center them in the middle of the page.
Thank you.


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Cook the Book: Beef Marrow Bones with Oxtail Marmalade
Before I had ever eaten bone marrow, one of my friends compared it to meat butter. Having never experienced it for myself I was immediately sold on his description. What could be better than meat butter? With this concept permanently in my subconscious, I made the Beef Marrow Bones with Oxtail Marmalade served at Blue Ribbon Brasserie. The dish was kind of like butter and jam—but made entirely from animal protein. More


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Feb. 20, 2008
ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- Senior center Tim Clifford (Walpole, Mass.) had a career-high 34 points, seven rebounds and four blocked shots, but it was not enough as the Holy Cross men's basketball team dropped a 72-66 decision to Navy at Alumni Hall. Clifford made 14 of 18 shots from the field, in addition to hitting six of eight attempts from the free throw line. The Crusaders fall to 14-11 overall and 5-7 in the Patriot League with the loss, while the Midshipmen improve to 14-12 on the season and 7-4 in the conference.
Senior guard Kyle Cruze (Knoxville, Tenn.) hit a three-pointer to open the game, but Navy then went on an 11-2 run over the next four minutes to claim a six-point lead. The Midshipmen would eventually build their lead up to seven points (18-11) with 10:38 left in the half, before the Crusaders responded with a 16-6 run to claim a three-point lead (27-24). Junior guard Pat Doherty (Scranton, Pa.) capped that spurt with back-to-back three-point field goals, to put Holy Cross in front. Heading into the locker room, the Crusaders held a 30-29 advantage.
Holy Cross was still up by one point (42-41) with 13 minutes left in regulation, when it went on a 9-4 run to increase its lead to six points (51-45). But Navy then outscored the Crusaders 18-4 over the next five minutes to take the lead for good, 63-55. Holy Cross was able to cut the lead down to two points (68-66) in the final minute and had a chance to tie the score, but Doherty was unable to convert on a running shot in the lane. The Midshipmen then made all four of their free throws in the final 10 seconds to put the game away.
Doherty finished the game with 11 points and five rebounds, while Navy was led by Greg Sprink with 25 points and seven boards. The Midshipmen shot 25 free throws, hitting 92.0 percent, while the Crusaders had just 11 attempts from the foul line.
Holy Cross returns to action on Saturday, February 23, when it plays host to Northeastern in a 4:00 p.m. game.


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The "Suburban Skies" oil paintings are largely excuses to explore color. Without this series, whole tubes of oil paint might go neglected, specifically mauve and some of the reds and blues. These paintings are upward-tilted landscapes of Los Angeles, telephone poles and all, a bit like the views seen through high windows.Learn More
The "Vegetable Portraits" are further explorations of color, this time in the service of monumentalizing veggies and fruits that we grew in our yard.Learn More


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Cruisin with Dr. Enuf and Florida Georgia Line
August 1, 2013 / By WP Admin / in Uncategorized / 0 505
Dr. Enuf is proud to present Florida Georgia Line at the Appalachian Fair in Gray, TN on August 22, 2013.
Here's your chance to win t-shirts and Dr. Enuf Swag too just in time for the concert.
It's easy to win. Gather your friends, jump in the car and roll the windows down. Maybe crank up some Florida Georgia Line and shoot an Instagram photo or Video or Vine Video of you celebrating the ride and 'Crusin' with Dr. Enuf.'
Get crazy, creative and show us your best stuff and we'll award t-shirts and hats to the best videos. Simply shoot the work, upload to Instagram or Vine and we'll feature them on Facebook and choose the best winners as we share them with the world.
So – have fun and celebrate Summer 'Crusin' with Dr. Enuf'
The Drinks, Shipped to Your Door!
Cpl. Brandon Brewer enjoys a cold one in service. Godspeed Corporal Brewer and thanks for your service.