Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 1 of 27 PageID #: 19
`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 1 of 27 PageID #: 19
`
`
`
`
`EXHIBIT 1
`
`EXHIBIT 1
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 2 of 27 PageID #: 20
`I lllll llllllll Ill lllll lllll lllll lllll lllll 111111111111111111111111111111111
`US007069310Bl
`
`c12) United States Patent
`Bartholomew
`
`(10) Patent No.:
`(45) Date of Patent:
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`Jun.27,2006
`
`(54) SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CREATING
`AND POSTING MEDIA LISTS FOR
`PURPOSES OF SUBSEQUENT PLAYBACK
`
`(75)
`
`Inventor: Alan Bartholomew, La Canada, CA
`(US)
`
`(73) Assignee: Trio Systems, LLC, Pasadena, CA
`(US)
`
`5,809,246 A
`
`9/1998 Goldman
`
`(Continued)
`
`OTHER PUBLICATIONS
`
`Mediagram Inc., 1999, p. 1.*
`
`(Continued)
`
`( *) Notice:
`
`Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
`patent is extended or adjusted under 35
`U.S.C. 154(b) by 752 days.
`
`Primary Examiner-John Follansbee
`Assistant Examiner-Haresh Patel
`(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Dalina Law Group P.C.
`
`(21) Appl. No.: 09/710,654
`
`(22) Filed:
`
`Nov. 10, 2000
`
`(51)
`
`Int. Cl.
`G06F 15116
`(2006.01)
`(52) U.S. Cl. ....................... 709/219; 709/201; 715/704
`(58) Field of Classification Search ........ 709/200-203,
`709/217-229; 719/310; 700/23, 88, 94;
`715/704, 500.1, 712
`See application file for complete search history.
`
`(56)
`
`References Cited
`
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`5,237,157 A
`5,428,778 A
`5,487,132 A
`5,539,635 A
`5,590,282 A
`5,592,511 A
`5,616,876 A
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`5,675,734 A
`5,715,444 A
`5,721,897 A
`5,726,909 A
`5,737,527 A
`5,768,578 A
`5,774,888 A
`5,778,187 A
`5,790,958 A
`
`8/1993 Kaplan
`6/1995 Brookes
`1/1996 Cheng
`7/1996 Larson, Jr.
`12/1996 Clynes
`1/1997 Schoen et al.
`4/1997 Cluts
`5/1997 Goldman
`10/1997 Hair
`2/1998 Danish et al.
`2/1998 Rubinstein
`3/1998 Krikorian
`4/1998 Shiels et al.
`6/1998 Kirk et al.
`6/1998 Light
`7/1998 Monteiro et al.
`8/1998 McCoy et al.
`
`(57)
`
`ABSTRACT
`
`A method and apparatus for creating and posting media is
`provided. For example, the invention allows a user to
`quickly create, signal process, encode, and transfer media
`files to a server for storage, posting, distribution, and
`retrieval. Thus, media such as audio, video, display, photo,
`spreadsheet, Web Clips, and HTML pages can be combined
`into a media file for uploading to a server and accessed from
`listings posted at web sites. In accordance with embodi(cid:173)
`ments, a user downloads and installs a plug-in at the user's
`client computer. The user then registers and logs onto the
`server to perform various tasks. For example, the user can
`create a combined audio and photo media file at the client
`computer, in accordance with server based control param(cid:173)
`eters received from the system server. The plug-in then
`allows the user to perform digital signal processing and
`encoding of the media file at the client computer. After the
`file is encoded, it may be uploaded to a server for storage,
`posting, distribution, and retrieval. A file management sys(cid:173)
`tem provides copies and listings of the file to other servers
`and web sites as permitted. Thus, other user having access
`to the database or web site lists via other client computers
`may select the file for retrieval. In accordance with another
`aspect of the invention, an information management system
`provides file and file list rankings based upon selection or
`click through of files and file listings.
`
`28 Claims, 12 Drawing Sheets
`
`~ 930
`
`WEB PAGE
`SERVER
`
`v9BO
`
`vgso
`
`,,..,-920
`
`CREATOR
`USER
`
`910
`
`980
`
`MED/AF/LE
`SERVER
`
`v9 70
`
`,,..,-990
`
`I
`
`USER
`
`940
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 3 of 27 PageID #: 21
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`Page 2
`
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`OTHER PUBLICATIONS
`
`10/1998
`5,819,160 A
`5,832,223 A
`11/1998
`11/1998
`5,841,979 A
`11/1998
`5,842,206 A
`12/1998
`5,845,278 A
`12/1998
`5,848,410 A
`1/1999
`5,864,868 A
`2/1999
`5,870,739 A
`2/1999
`5,873,079 A
`5,892,909 A * 4/1999
`5,905,865 A
`5/1999
`5,905,981 A
`5/1999
`5,913,204 A
`6/1999
`5,913,215 A
`6/1999
`5,920,856 A
`7/1999
`5,930,768 A
`7/1999
`5,931,901 A
`8/1999
`5,931,906 A
`8/1999
`5,931,907 A
`8/1999
`5,931,908 A
`8/1999
`5,937,407 A
`8/1999
`5,943,669 A
`8/1999
`5,945,988 A
`8/1999
`5,949,492 A
`9/1999
`5,956,716 A
`9/1999
`5,959,945 A
`9/1999
`5,963,916 A
`10/1999
`5,963,965 A
`10/1999
`5,970,489 A
`10/1999
`11/1999
`5,977,964 A
`5,983,005 A
`11/1999
`6,263,313 Bl
`7/2001
`6,333,932 Bl * 12/2001
`6,374,260 Bl* 412002
`6,591,247 Bl* 7/2003
`6,607,136 Bl* 8/2003
`6,625,734 Bl* 9/2003
`6,675,205 Bl*
`1/2004
`6,769,010 Bl* 7/2004
`2002/0032783 Al* 3/2002
`2004/0128697 Al* 7/2004
`1/2005
`2005/0021611 Al*
`
`F oladare et al.
`Hara et al.
`Schulhof et al.
`Sotomayor
`Kirsch et al.
`Walls et al.
`Contois
`Davis, III et al.
`Davis, III et al.
`Grasso et al. ............... 709/201
`Palmer et al.
`Lawler
`Kelly
`Rubinstein et al.
`Syeda-Malunood
`Hoo ban
`Wolfe et al.
`Fidelibus, Jr. et al.
`Davies et al.
`Gerba et al.
`Sakata
`Numata
`Williams et al.
`Mankovitz
`Kenner et al.
`Kleiman
`Kaplan
`Vogel
`Jacobson et al.
`Williams et al.
`Monteiro et al.
`Milsted et al.
`Kobayasi et al. ........... 370/389
`Hoffert et al. ........... 707/104.1
`Stern ........................... 705/14
`Atsmon et al. ............. 235/492
`Marvit et al. ............... 713/201
`Meadway et al.
`.......... 709/219
`Knapp et al. ............... 709/203
`Tuatini ....................... 7091229
`Wood et al. ................ 725/115
`Knapp et al. ............... 709/203
`
`Press and Online Coverage [online], [retrieved on Feb. 1,
`2000]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.
`scala.com/users/ quotes .asap>.
`Discover Music Template [online], [retrieved on Jan. 20,
`2000]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.
`discovermusic .com>.
`How Do I Create a Talk Program [ online], [retrieved on Sep.
`28, 1999]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.
`givemetalk.com> .
`Personal Video Webcasting [online], [retrieved on Feb. 6,
`2000]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.
`popcast.com>.
`Cyber Greetings and MessageBay to Offer Industry First
`Online Voice Greeting Cards [online], [retrieved on Oct. 10,
`1999]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.
`messagebay.com/press/0907 99 .htm>.
`Destiny internet radio broadcast network [ online], [retrieved
`on Jan. 10, 2000]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL:
`http://www.radiodestiny.com/broadcast/index.shtml>.
`Jose Alvear, NextAudio Launches Radio Software Using
`Windows Media [online], [retrieved on Jun. 7, 2000].
`Retrieved
`from
`the
`Internet:
`<URL:
`http://www.
`streamingmedia.com:business-technology-content>.
`Welcome to Activate.net [online], [retrieved on Jun. 7,
`2000]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.
`activate.net>.
`VoizLetter Pro [online], [retrieved on Sep. 19, 2000].
`Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.mediaring.
`com/business/products/voizletterpro>.
`Paul Gilster, Headline: Computers-The Web Connection to
`your Phone, InternetSpeech.com [ online ], [retrieved on Oct.
`5, 2000]. Retrieved from the Internet: <URL: http://www.
`internetspeech.com/06-05-00.htm> .
`Message Bay, Create Your Own Personal Voice Greeting
`Card [online], [retrieved on Oct. 10, 1999]. Retrieved from
`the
`Internet: <URL: http://www.messagebay.com/perl/
`mb_up.pl> .
`* cited by examiner
`
`

`

`e •
`
`00
`•
`~
`~
`~
`
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`
`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 4 of 27 PageID #: 22
`
`119
`
`/
`
`1/0
`
`VIDEO
`AMP
`
`116
`
`CRT
`
`117
`
`/
`
`PROCESSOR
`
`113
`v
`
`VIDEO
`MEMORY
`
`114
`
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`
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`MEMORY
`
`115
`
`/
`
`126
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`
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`
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`
`I
`
`~ISP~'
`
`124
`
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`LOCAL
`NETWORj
`
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`120
`
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`
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`INT
`
`NETWORK .
`LINK\
`
`121
`
`123
`
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`
`SERVER
`
`118
`\
`
`...
`
`110
`
`/
`
`KEYBOARD
`
`MOUSE
`
`111
`
`112
`
`MASS
`STORAGE
`
`\
`100
`
`FIGURE 1
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 5 of 27 PageID #: 23
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun.27,2006
`
`Sheet 2 of 12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`203
`
`CUE NT
`
`202
`
`202
`
`SERVER
`
`SERVER
`
`203
`
`CLIENT
`
`203
`
`CLIENT
`
`FIGURE2
`
`390
`.----"'---.........
`USER3
`
`FIGURE3
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 6 of 27 PageID #: 24
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun.27,2006
`
`Sheet 3 of 12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`DOWNLOAD
`PLUG-IN
`l
`INSTAU
`PLUG-IN
`I
`
`"-404
`
`"-406
`
`v40B
`
`410
`
`420
`
`v430
`
`v440
`
`450
`
`v460
`
`v470
`
`v4BO
`
`REGISTER
`AS USER
`
`v402
`
`•
`USER LOG ON
`TO SERVER
`'
`'
`'
`
`"CREATE" COMMAND
`
`SERVER BASED CONTROL
`
`CREATE MEDIA FILE
`AT PLUG-IN
`~
`DIGITAL SIGNAL
`PROCESSING AT PLUG-IN
`
`ENCODE FILE AT PLUG-IN
`
`UPLOAD FILE FROM
`PLUG-IN TO SERVER
`
`'
`'
`'
`FILE MANAGEMENT
`SYSTEM PROCESS
`'
`FILE RETRIEVAL
`PROCESS
`
`t
`INFORMATION
`MANAGEMENT
`SYSTEM
`PROCESS
`
`"'--490
`
`'
`
`FIGURE 4
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 7 of 27 PageID #: 25
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun. 27, 2006
`
`Sheet 4of12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`LOAD MEDIA FILE IN
`MEMORY AND READ
`CONFIGURATION
`
`APPLY DATA
`MANIPULATION PROCESS
`1
`
`• • • '
`
`APPLY DATA
`MANIPULATION PROCESS
`N
`
`510
`
`520
`
`v 530
`
`APPLY ENCODING
`PROCESS
`
`v 540
`
`FIGURE 5
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 8 of 27 PageID #: 26
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun.27,2006
`
`Sheet 5of12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`COLLECT SYSTEM
`INFORMATION
`
`600
`
`ESTABUSH
`....----~ NETWORK CONNECTION
`
`605
`
`615
`
`620
`
`SEND INFORMATION
`HEADER
`
`READ DATA
`BLOCK FROM FILE
`
`630
`
`NO
`
`SEND DATA
`BLOCK
`
`REPORT STATUS
`INFORMATION
`
`READ SERVER
`RESPONSE
`
`FIGURE 6A
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 9 of 27 PageID #: 27
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun.27,2006
`
`Sheet 6of12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`RECEIVE HEADER
`
`VALIDATE USER
`
`GENERATE
`FILE NAME
`
`655
`
`660
`
`665
`
`RECEIVE DATA
`BLOCK
`
`680
`
`APPEND DATA BLOCK
`TO DATA FILE
`
`CLOSE AND STORE DATA FILE
`
`GENERATE FILE
`INFORMATION WEB PAGE
`
`SEND FILE INFORMATION
`WEB PAGE TO CUENT
`
`FIGURE 68
`
`NO
`
`684
`
`686
`
`690
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 10 of 27 PageID #: 28
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun. 27, 2006
`
`Sheet 7of12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`SEND REQUEST
`FOR CONTROL FILE
`
`YES
`
`RECEIVE CONTROL
`INFORMATION
`
`710
`
`730
`
`740
`
`DEGRYPTGONNECnON
`LOCATION INFORMATION
`
`750
`
`DISPLAY
`HELPER APPUGATION
`SCREENS
`
`FIGURE 7A
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 11 of 27 PageID #: 29
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun. 27, 2006
`
`Sheet 8 of 12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`NO
`
`770
`
`YES
`
`PROCESS REQUEST
`INFORMATION
`
`785
`
`NO
`
`SEND ACCESS DENIED
`MESSAGE AND ALTERNATE
`CONTROLINSTRUCllONS
`
`YES
`
`SEND REQUEST
`CONTROLINSTRUCnONS
`TO CLIENT
`
`790
`
`FIGURE 78
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 12 of 27 PageID #: 30
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun.27,2006
`
`Sheet 9of12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`i....-810
`
`v-
`
`820
`
`830
`~
`
`v 840
`
`SELECT ALLOWABLE
`FUNCTIONS
`
`GENERATE WEB PAGE
`CONTAINING CONTROLS
`
`USER ENTERS
`INFORMATION/ISSUES
`.COMMANDS
`
`SERVER UPDATES
`DATABASE WITH
`INFORMATION/
`
`SERVER GENERATES v 850
`HYPERLINK TO
`MEDIA FILES
`
`FIGURE 8
`
`~ 930
`
`WEB PAGE
`SERVER
`
`v9BO
`
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`
`v920
`
`CREATOR
`USER
`
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`
`FIGURES
`
`v 980
`
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`
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`SERVER
`
`v-9 70
`
`v-990
`
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`
`'
`
`USER
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 13 of 27 PageID #: 31
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun.27,2006
`
`Sheet 10 of 12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`1010
`
`1015
`
`1020
`
`1025
`
`1030
`
`1035
`
`1040
`
`1045
`
`1050
`
`USER DEFINES
`MEDIA FILE UST
`
`ADD MEDIA FILE
`TO ENTRIES
`
`CREATE LIST ENTRY
`CONNECTIONS AND
`RELATIONSHIPS;
`STORE DATA
`
`EDIT UST ENTRIES
`
`SELECT LIST DISPLAY,
`BROWSING, EXPORTING
`
`PERFORM LIST DISPLAY,
`BROWSING,
`IMPORT AND
`CONNECTIONS
`
`NOTIFY SELECTED
`USERS, CREATORS,
`LJSTOWNER~MANAGERS
`
`USER REQUESTS USTS
`
`USER REQUESTS DATA
`ASSOCIATED WITH
`ENTRIES
`
`FIGURE 10A
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 14 of 27 PageID #: 32
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun. 27, 2006
`
`Sheet 11 of 12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`A
`
`•
`PROVIDE DATA ASSOCIATED
`WITH UST ENTRIES
`(INCLUDING POPULARITY)
`
`/
`
`1055
`
`~
`
`ACCUMULATE USAGE
`DATA
`(POPULARITY DATA)
`
`RANK POPULARITY/USAGE
`AND STORE DATA IN
`DATABASE
`
`1060
`
`1065
`
`/
`
`/
`
`'
`PROVIDE CREATOR, USERS
`LIST OWNERS, MANAGERS /
`WITH POPULARITY
`USAGE DATA
`
`1070
`
`FIGURE 108
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 15 of 27 PageID #: 33
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`Jun.27,2006
`
`Sheet 12 of 12
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`I
`LIST ATTRIBUTES
`
`LIST
`REFRENCES
`
`MEDIA
`F1LES
`REFRENCES
`
`150,
`
`I
`LIST ATTRIBUTES
`
`MEDIA
`FILES
`REFRENCES
`
`1 1120
`
`1130
`
`ASSOCIATION
`ATTRIBUTES
`
`ASSOCIATED
`ITEMS LIST
`
`~ 1140
`
`FIGURE 11
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 16 of 27 PageID #: 34
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`1
`SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CREATING
`AND POSTING MEDIA LISTS FOR
`PURPOSES OF SUBSEQUENT PLAYBACK
`
`BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
`
`1. Field of the Invention
`The present invention relates to the generation, transfer,
`and posting of media data in a computer network environ(cid:173)
`ment. More particularly, the invention relates to a client
`computer based system for creating, processing, encoding,
`and transferring media files for server based storage, post(cid:173)
`ing, distribution, and retrieval.
`2. Background Art
`The development of computer technology, computer net(cid:173)
`works and the Internet has brought about a need for better
`ways to create, manage and disseminate files. The advance(cid:173)
`ment of the Internet market has only increased this need and
`allowed providers of such services to maintain a viable
`business.
`However, using current technology, the creation, prepa(cid:173)
`ration, management and dissemination of files (e.g., audio,
`visual media and/or presentation files) over the Internet is a
`tedious and inefficient process for the typical user. For
`instance, in order to disseminate an audio or visual presen(cid:173)
`tation over the Internet, a number of steps are required. In
`addition, many parts of the process require specialized
`knowledge that many computer users do not have.
`Using current systems, a user must first create or record
`an audio or video file live using a microphone and/or as a
`compilation of material that may include recordings made
`live as well as prerecorded offerings, including offerings
`from various potential inputs. All of these sources must be
`mixed together into a single recording with the volume and
`recording level controlled appropriately for each of the
`components. While programs exist for accomplishing this
`task, they require a degree of expertise on the part of the
`user.
`In addition, recorded audio files can be digitally signal
`processed to optimize the quality of the sound using digital
`signal processing. However, such processing can require
`many steps including multi-band voice-optimized compres(cid:173)
`sion where compression reduces selected signal input (e.g.
`audio analog compression, not to be confused with data
`compression or encoding). Current systems also provide a 45
`way to optimize other types of files (e.g., video, audio,
`etc .... ) using digital or analog optimization techniques. For
`example, in order to create professional quality media files,
`these steps are generally not optional and thus failure to
`perform them put a web broadcaster at a competitive dis(cid:173)
`advantage as compared to one who does perform them.
`Also, in order to use a file with certain software applica(cid:173)
`tions, the file is usually converted into a file format, such as
`Real Audio™, that can be replayed by that application. File
`conversion may also be required when the target application 55
`is a web browser. For instance, ifthe intended recipient is a
`web browser, the file is encoded into a format (e.g., WAY)
`that the web browser or a help application associated with
`the web browser is capable of playing. The programs that
`exist to accomplish this encoding require a degree of exper- 60
`tise on the part of the user.
`Furthermore, media files uploaded to a server have little
`in the way of the capability to incorporate links to other web
`sites as part of the media file or presentation. Current
`systems, for example, lack a way for users to post parts of 65
`a presentation on different servers in order to utilize servers
`with various capabilities (e.g., Real Server™). If parts of the
`
`2
`presentation are posted on different servers, the server must
`typically be provided with the capability to download all of
`the files associated with the presentation to the audience
`upon request. Once again, the steps require user intervention
`to accomplish tasks that require expertise. Furthermore,
`these tasks are time consuming and the process of editing or
`modifying a media file or presentation includes repeating the
`same steps as above.
`Another limitation inherent in current systems is that once
`10 the user generates a media file, there is no simple mechanism
`for depositing the media files into a dynamic environment
`(e.g., a list that changes according to a set of criteria or
`behaviors established by the user). For example, users may
`send files they create to a server, but the prior art doe not
`15 have a way for the posting user to sequence the files
`according to a series of dynamic attributes. Users cannot, for
`example, define the type of files that are to be placed on the
`server where the files that are on the server are associated
`with a list that changes according to criteria established by
`20 the user. Thus, there is a need for a system that accomplished
`these objectives by providing the user with a dynamic
`environment in which to upload files.
`It is apparent that the current procedures to create, pre(cid:173)
`pare, manage and disseminate a media files and presenta-
`25 tions over the Internet are lengthy and tedious, requiring a
`high level of knowledge of a number of computer programs
`for processing each step. The process is so tedious because
`each step typically requires the use of a different computer
`program and the user must take the output of one program
`30 and feed it into the next program.
`Moreover, these tasks are currently performed as indi(cid:173)
`vidual steps in separate programs on servers rather than on
`the user's computer. It would be more efficient for users to
`perform as many of these steps as possible on their own
`35 computers or clients, rather than attempt to perform the
`processing using software provided for them on a server.
`For example, a user may have to upload a .WAY file to one
`server for signal processing and know how to operate the
`signal processing for that server. The user will then have to
`40 load the file to another server for encoding and know how to
`operate that program as well. After that, the user will have
`to load the completed file to a third server for distribution
`and must know how to use the system on that third server as
`well.
`Therefore, there is a need for a simple, inexpensive way
`to create, process, encode, upload, post and distribute seam(cid:173)
`less media files and presentations while requiring minimal
`creator input, expertise, and time. Hence, a system is needed
`that runs on a user's local PC and is suitable for users who
`50 are not experts in various media recording, processing,
`encoding, transmitting, and server based software packages.
`
`SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
`
`The present invention provides a method and apparatus
`for creating and posting media. Embodiments of the inven(cid:173)
`tion provide a convenient process for a user to quickly
`create, signal process, encode, and transfer media files to a
`server for storage, posting, distribution, and retrieval. For
`example, audio, video, display, photo, database, spreadsheet,
`voice messages, Web Clips, pictures, HTML pages, attach(cid:173)
`ments, templates, and/or combinations of such data can be
`combined into a media file for uploading to a server and
`accessible from a listing posted at a web site.
`In accordance with an embodiment of the present inven(cid:173)
`tion, a user accesses a system server to download a plug-in
`and register as a user. After downloading the plug-in, the
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 17 of 27 PageID #: 35
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`4
`FIG. 5 is a flow diagram that illustrates the process used
`by the system to perform digital signal processing at the
`plug-in, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
`invention.
`FIGS. 6a and 6b are flow diagrams that illustrate the
`process used by the system to upload or transfer a file to the
`server, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
`invention.
`FIGS. 7a and 7b are flow diagrams that illustrate the
`process used by the system to provide server based control
`of the plug-in, in accordance with an embodiment of the
`present invention.
`FIG. 8 is a flow diagram that illustrates the process used
`by the system to provide a file management system, in
`15 accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
`FIG. 9 is a block diagram that illustrates a method and
`apparatus for distributing media file content to users over a
`network of computers, in accordance with an embodiment of
`the present invention.
`FIGS. lOa and lOb are flow diagrams that illustrate the
`process used by the system to provide an information
`management system for giving file and file list rankings, in
`accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
`FIG. 11 is a block diagram that illustrates representation
`of information mediagrams used in the invention, in accor(cid:173)
`dance with an embodiment of the present invention.
`
`20
`
`DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
`INVENTION
`
`3
`plug-in is installed. The user may then log into the server
`where the user is given multiple options. For example, the
`user can "create" a media file using the create command. If
`the user selects the create command, server based control is
`initiated and the plug-in continues to record or receive media
`file at the plug-in, in accordance with the control parameters
`received from the system server.
`For example, a user may record audio, video, photo,
`and/or display information options using the plug-in or other
`systems. For example, the plug-in may provide a user with 10
`a system for recording audio information using a PC base
`microphone and video input. Alternatively, a media file may
`be recorded using another method, or previously recorded
`and accessed by the plug-in.
`Also, in accordance with another aspect of the invention,
`once the plug in has access to a media file, the plug-in
`performs digital signal processing upon that media file. In
`addition, the plug-in encodes the media file. After a file is
`encoded, it may be uploaded to a server for storage, posting,
`distribution, and retrieval from other client computers.
`According to an embodiment of the invention, recording
`(e.g. setting levels, recording, playback, etc), signal process(cid:173)
`ing of the generated file, RealAudio encoding, and upload to
`a server can be done with as few as 3 clicks (e.g. record/ 25
`stop/upload).
`Upon successful upload of a file, a file management
`system provides copies and listings of the file to other
`servers and web sites as approved by the creator of the file
`and the owner of the servers and/or site owners. For 30
`example, once a file is uploaded, the system then incorpo(cid:173)
`rates the file information into one or more web site lists
`and/or server based database. Once a file is incorporated into
`the databases, any user having access to a database or list,
`may select that file for retrieval or playback. Hence, the 35
`invention allows for media files to be stored to and accessed
`from one location (e.g. an Internet server) that is accessible
`from various locations (e.g. Internet clients via an Internet
`web site).
`In accordance with another aspect of the invention, an
`information management system provides file and file list
`rankings based upon selection or click through of web page
`listing and/or desired files. Thus, for example, information
`relating to popular selections and lists can be tracked and
`recorded by the system in order to provide list and/or file
`ratings.
`
`The present invention provides a method and apparatus
`for providing a system for creating and posting media. In the
`following description, numerous specific details are set forth
`in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the
`present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one
`skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced
`without these specific details. In other instances, well-known
`features have not been described in detail in order not to
`40 unnecessarily obscure the present invention. Hereinafter, the
`term "system" is used to refer to a device and/or a method
`for performing a function. Furthermore, hereinafter, use of
`the term "media", "audio", "video", "data", or "data files"
`shall comprise various types of media including analog and
`45 digital audio, video, database, and display information or
`data.
`Embodiments of the invention provide a convenient sys(cid:173)
`tem for the user to create, signal process, encode, and
`transfer a media file (e.g. an audio file) to a server for
`50 storage, distribution, and retrieval from a posting. For
`example, a system can be implement using a plug-in
`installed on a general purpose computer for creating Rea(cid:173)
`lAudio recordings with client-side processing, and automati(cid:173)
`cally hosting those recordings on a computer network server
`55 and posting a reference to the recording on web site lists.
`
`Embodiment of General Purpose Computer Environment
`FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example of a general
`purpose computer system that can be used for implementing
`60 the invention, in accordance with an embodiment of the
`invention. For example, an embodiment of the invention can
`be implemented as computer software in the form of com(cid:173)
`puter readable program code executed on a general purpose
`computer such as the computer 100 or as system comprising
`65 a general purpose computer 100. Hereinafter, the term
`"system" is used to refer to a device and/or a method for
`performing a function.
`
`BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
`
`FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example of a general
`purpose computer system that can be used for implementing
`the invention, in accordance with an embodiment of the
`invention.
`FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a general Internet or
`client/server environment that can be used for implementing
`the invention, in accordance with an embodiment of the
`present invention.
`FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a method and apparatus for
`creating and posting media system implemented in an Inter(cid:173)
`net or client/server environment, showing a client systems,
`servers, a data storage medium, and their related connec(cid:173)
`tions, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
`invention.
`FIG. 4 is a flow diagram that illustrates the process used
`by the system to create and post media, in accordance with
`an embodiment of the present invention.
`
`

`

`Case 4:20-cv-00432-SDJ Document 1-2 Filed 05/26/20 Page 18 of 27 PageID #: 36
`
`US 7,069,310 Bl
`
`6
`Local network 122 and Internet 125 both use electrical,
`electromagnetic or optical signals which carry digital data
`streams to files. The signals through the various networks
`and the signals on network link 121 and through commu(cid:173)
`nication interface 120, which carry the digital data to and
`from computer 100, are exemplary forms of carrier waves
`for transporting the digital information.
`The computer 100 can send messages and receive data,
`including program code, through the network(s), network
`10 link 121, and communication interface 120. In the Internet
`example, server 126 might transmit a requested code for an
`application program through Internet 125, ISP 124, local
`network 122 and communication interface 120.
`
`5
`Referring to FIG. 1, a keyboard 110 and mouse 111 are
`coupled to a bi-directional system bus 118 (e.g., PCI, ISA or
`other similar architecture). The keyboard and mouse are for
`introducing user input to the computer system and commu(cid:173)
`nicating that user input to central processing unit (CPU) 113.
`Other suitable input devices may be used in addition to, or
`in place of, the mouse 111 and keyboard 110. I/O (input/
`output) unit 119 coupled to bi-directional system bus 118
`represents possible output devices such as a printer or an
`A/V (audio/video) device.
`Computer 100 includes video memory 114, main memory
`115, mass storage 112, and communication interface 120.
`All these devices are coupled to a bi-directional system bus
`118 along with keyboard 110, mouse 111 and CPU 113. The
`mass storage 112 may include both fixed and removable
`media, such as magnetic, optical or magnetic optical storage
`systems or any other available mass storage technology. The
`system bus 118 provides a means for addressing video
`memory 114 or main memory 115. The system bus 118 also
`provides a mechanism for the CPU to transferring data 20
`between and among the components, such as main memory
`115, video memory 114 and mass storage 112.
`In one embodiment of the invention, the CPU 113 is a
`microprocessor manufactured by Motorola, such as the
`680XO processor, an Intel Pentium III processor, or an
`UltraSPARC processor from Sun Microsystems. However,
`any other suitable processor or computer may be utilized.
`Video memory 114 is a dual-ported video random access
`memory. One port of the video memory 114 is coupled to
`video accelerator 116. The video accelerator device 116 is
`used to drive a CRT (cathode ray tube), and LCD (Liquid
`Crystal Display), or TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) monitor
`117. The video accelerator 116 is well known in the art and
`may be implemented by any suitable apparatus. This cir(cid:173)
`cuitry converts pixel data stored in video memory 114 to a
`signal suitable for use by monitor 117. The monitor 117 is a
`type of monitor suitable for displaying graphic images.
`The computer 100 may also include a communication
`interface 120 coupled to the system bus 118. The commu(cid:173)
`nication interface 120 provides a two-way data communi(cid:173)
`cation coupling via a network link 121 to a network 122. For
`example, if the communication interface 120 is a modem,
`the communication interface 120 provides a data commu(cid:173)
`nication connection to a corresponding type of telephone
`line, which comprises part of a network link 121. If the
`communication interface 120 is a Network Interface Card
`(NIC), communication interface 120 provides a data com(cid:173)
`munication connection via a network link 121 to a compat(cid:173)
`ible network. Physical network links can include Ethernet, 50
`wireless, fiber optic, and cable television type links. In any
`such implementation, communication interface 120 sends
`and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals
`which carry digital data streams representing various types
`of information and media (e.g. audio and video data).
`The network link 121 typically provides data communi(cid:173)
`cation through one or more networks to other data devices.
`For example, network link 121 may provide a connection
`through local network 122 to a host computer 123 or to data
`equipment operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP)
`124. ISP 124 in tum provides data communication services
`through the world wide packet data communication network
`now commonly referred to as the "Internet" 125. Hereinaf(cid:173)
`ter, "the Internet" will be used to refer to the Internet itself
`as well as other types of Intranets, networks, distributed 65
`servers, or client/server architectures where a computer
`gaming system is desired and applicable.
`
`15
`
`The Internet/Client/Server
`Computers and computer networks are used to exchange
`information, perform transactions, and provide entertain(cid:173)
`ment in many fields. During these events, the exchange of
`data between computers typically occurs between a "server
`application" that provides information or services, and a
`"client application" or device that receives the provided
`information and services. Multiple server applications are
`sometimes available on a "system server" such as a single
`computer server that provides services for multiple clients.
`25 Alternatively, distributed server systems allow a single cli(cid:173)
`ent to obtain services f