US7080153B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Multicasting method and apparatus
Assignee: Two Way Media Ltd
•
Filing: 2004-05-04
•
Granted: 2006-07-18
•
Expires: 2024-05-04
Abstract
Abstract A scalable architecture is disclosed for delivery of real-time information over a communications network. Embedded into the architecture is a control mechanism that provides for the management and administration of users who are to receive the real-time information. In the preferred embodiment, the information being delivered is high-quality audio. However, it could also be video, graphics, text or any other type of information that can be transmitted over a digital network. Preferably, there are multiple channels of information available simultaneously to be delivered to users, each channel consisting of an independent stream of information. A user chooses to tune in or tune out a particular channel, but does not choose the time at which the channel distributes its information. Advantageously, interactive (two-way) information can be incorporated into the system, multiple streams of information can be integrated for delivery to a user, and certain portions of the information being delivered can be tailored to the individual user.
Inventors
- 👤 Antonio M Monteiro
- 👤 James F Butterworth
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-09 11:15
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06Q; G06Q30/00; G06Q30/02; G06Q30/0241; G06Q30/0251; H; H04; H04L; H04L12/00; H04L12/02; H04L12/16; H04L12/18; H04L12/1813; H04L12/1822; H04L12/1831; H04L12/185; H04L12/1859; H04L43/00; H04L63/00; H04L63/08; H04L63/0807; H04L65/00; H04L65/1066; H04L65/1083; H04L65/1089; H04L65/60; H04L65/61; H04L65/611; H04L65/75; H04L65/765; H04L67/00; H04L67/50; H04L67/55; H04L9/00; H04L9/40; H04Q; H04Q11/00; H04Q11/04; H04Q11/0428; H04Q11/0478; H04L12/54; H04L12/56; H04L12/5601; H04L2012/5625; H04L2012/5626; H04L2012/5638; H04L2012/564; H04L2012/5642; H04L65/1101; H04L69/00; H04L69/08
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 151
Claim 1
Independent Claim
157 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel, wherein the individual pieces of information include audio information; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: how many users listened to the particular channel; or times at which the users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
157 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel, wherein the individual pieces of information include audio information; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: how many users listened to the particular channel; or times at which the users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein membership in the group of users is dynamic.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein a user in the group can start and stop listening to the particular channel at any time.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
28 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the application is a client application that is configured to be downloaded over the communications network and installed on user computers.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the user interface screen includes a link to facilitate the purchase.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the product is relevant to the audio information that is being transmitted.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the audit log records data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel and times at which the users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user in the group to initiate two-way interaction with at least one other user in the group.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 9 , wherein the two-way interaction allows the user and the at least one other user to chat.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 9 , wherein the two-way interaction allows the user and the at least one other user to chat about the particular channel.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 9 , wherein the user interface screen includes a link to facilitate the two-way interaction during the transmission of the audio information.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a display of tour dates.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the user interface screen further includes information selected from the group consisting of an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the information provided in the program guide relates to audio information that will be playing on the particular channel.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the information provided in the program guide is dynamically transmitted to the application.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the available channels include at least one of music, talk radio, news, special events, concerts, sports broadcasts, or corporate announcements.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
17 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the available channels include channels featuring different types of music.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
32 words
The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one server adapted to control the routing of the individual pieces of information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
55 words
The system of claim 19 , further comprising multiple servers to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of information at approximately the same time to each user in the group, wherein the multiple servers that transmit the information are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
53 words
The system of claim 1 , further comprising multiple servers to control the routing of the individual pieces of information in response to selection signals received from the users, wherein the multiple servers that control the routing are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
34 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the audit log records data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel and data indicative of how many users are stored in a database.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to at least one of the users in the group.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 23 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
14 words
The system of claim 24 , wherein the content is varied based on demographics.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 24 , wherein the content is varied based on the particular channel.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 23 , wherein the advertising information is incorporated into the continuous sequence of individual pieces of information.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
60 words
The system of claim 23 , wherein the advertising information is incorporated into a separate stream of information, and the separate stream is transmitted before the audio information and stored in a memory of a computer operated by a user in the group and then inserted into the audio information upon the receipt of a cueing signal by the computer.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
23 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the audio associated with each of the available channels comprises an independent continuous sequence of information.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
25 words
The system of claim 1 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to play, stop and mute the audio information.
Claim 32
Independent Claim
147 words
A method for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel comprising the steps of: transmitting the continuous sequence of individual pieces of information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel, wherein the individual pieces of information include audio information; providing an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and maintaining an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: how many users listened to the particular channel; or times at which the users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 33
Independent Claim
147 words
A method for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel comprising the steps of: transmitting the continuous sequence of individual pieces of information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel, wherein the individual pieces of information include audio information; providing an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and maintaining an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: how many users listened to the particular channel; or times at which the users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 31 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
34 words
The method of claim 31 , wherein the audit log records data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel and the times at which the users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising storing in a database data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 31 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to chat with at least one other user in the group.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 31 , wherein the user interface includes information selected from the group consisting of: an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 31 , wherein the available channels include channels featuring different types of music, and the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to play, stop and mute the audio information.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 31 , further comprising controlling the routing of the individual pieces of information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 31 , further comprising transmitting advertising information to at least one of the users in the group.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 39 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 43
Independent Claim
144 words
A method for making available a plurality of media streams, wherein each of the media streams comprises an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information, comprising the steps of: transmitting the media streams, wherein a particular media stream of the media streams is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group, wherein the group comprises a set of all users that selected the particular media stream; providing an application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available media streams; and side-bar information containing data selected from the group consisting of graphics, images and text; and maintaining a database that includes data indicative of at least one of: the media streams selected by the users; how many users listened to the selected media streams; or times at which users listened to the selected media streams.
Claim 44
Independent Claim
144 words
A method for making available a plurality of media streams, wherein each of the media streams comprises an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information, comprising the steps of: transmitting the media streams, wherein a particular media stream of the media streams is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group, wherein the group comprises a set of all users that selected the particular media stream; providing an application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available media streams; and side-bar information containing data selected from the group consisting of graphics, images and text; and maintaining a database that includes data indicative of at least one of: the media streams selected by the users; how many users listened to the selected media streams; or times at which users listened to the selected media streams.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
33 words
The method of claim 41 , wherein the media streams include different types of music, and the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to play, stop and mute the music.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 42 , wherein the side-bar information is synchronized with the different types of music and includes images relating to an album cover and artist information.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 41 , further comprising providing a plurality of servers that are adapted to transmit the plurality of media streams.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method of claim 44 , further comprising selecting one or more of the plurality of servers to transmit the media streams in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 41 , wherein the side-bar information relates to an album cover.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
14 words
The method of claim 41 , wherein the side-bar information relates to artist information.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
14 words
The method of claim 41 , wherein the side-bar information relates to tour dates.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
14 words
The method of claim 41 , wherein the side-bar information relates to song lyrics.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
14 words
The method of claim 41 , wherein the side-bar information relates to a URL.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 45 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 51 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to at least one of the plurality of media streams being transmitted.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 41 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction that allows users to chat.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 41 , further comprising transmitting advertising information to at least one of the users in the group.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 54 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 59
Independent Claim
144 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel; a client application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio, wherein the available channels include channels featuring different types of music; a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and a frame adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product.
Claim 60
Independent Claim
144 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel; a client application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio, wherein the available channels include channels featuring different types of music; a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and a frame adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 56 , wherein the client application is configured to be downloaded over the communications network and installed on user computers.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 56 , wherein a user in the group can start and stop listening to the particular channel at any time.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 58 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system of claim 56 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction that allows users to chat, and the user interface screen is further adapted to allow the user to play, stop and mute the audio information.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 56 , wherein the user interface screen further includes information selected from the group consisting of: an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 56 , further comprising at least one server adapted to control the routing of the individual pieces of audio information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
18 words
The system of claim 56 , wherein data indicative of how many users are stored in a database.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 56 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 64 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 70
Independent Claim
159 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: a plurality of servers adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel, wherein the data are stored in a database; a client application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio, wherein the available channels include channels featuring different types of music; side-bar information containing data selected from the group consisting of: an album cover, artist information and a URL; and a frame adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product.
Claim 71
Independent Claim
159 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: a plurality of servers adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of how many users listened to the particular channel, wherein the data are stored in a database; a client application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio, wherein the available channels include channels featuring different types of music; side-bar information containing data selected from the group consisting of: an album cover, artist information and a URL; and a frame adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 66 , wherein the client application is configured to be downloaded over the communications network and installed on user computers.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 66 , wherein the side-bar information is synchronized with the audio information.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
22 words
The system of claim 66 , wherein the side-bar information includes data regarding the album cover, the artist information, and the URL.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 66 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
25 words
The system of claim 66 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction for users to chat.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
37 words
The system of claim 66 , further comprising at least one server adapted to select one or more of the plurality of servers to transmit the audio information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 72 , wherein the plurality of servers are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 66 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 80
Independent Claim
160 words
A system for streaming multiple channels of audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: a plurality of servers adapted to transmit the multiple channels of audio information, each channel including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information and said plurality of servers configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group, wherein the group comprises a set of all users that selected the particular channel; at least one server adapted to route the audio information by selecting one or more of the plurality of servers in response to selection signals received from the users; a client application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels of audio information, wherein the multiple channels include channels featuring different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to a selected channel.
Claim 81
Independent Claim
160 words
A system for streaming multiple channels of audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: a plurality of servers adapted to transmit the multiple channels of audio information, each channel including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information and said plurality of servers configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group, wherein the group comprises a set of all users that selected the particular channel; at least one server adapted to route the audio information by selecting one or more of the plurality of servers in response to selection signals received from the users; a client application that generates a user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels of audio information, wherein the multiple channels include channels featuring different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to a selected channel.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
29 words
The system of claim 75 , wherein a user can select any of the multiple channels and can start and stop listening to the particular channel at any time.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 75 , wherein the user interface screen further includes a frame adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 77 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
23 words
The system of claim 77 , wherein the product that may be purchased is relevant to the audio information that is being transmitted.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
26 words
The system of claim 75 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction that allows users to chat.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
50 words
The system of claim 75 , wherein the user interface screen further includes information selected from the group consisting of an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates, and the user interface screen is further adapted to allow the user to play, stop and mute the audio information.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 75 , wherein the plurality of servers are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 82 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 83 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 91
Independent Claim
194 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group, wherein the group comprises a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels available to the user, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to a channel selected by the user; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: the channels selected by the users; how many users listened to the selected channels; or times at which users listened to the selected channels.
Claim 92
Independent Claim
194 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group, wherein the group comprises a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels available to the user, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to a channel selected by the user; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: the channels selected by the users; how many users listened to the selected channels; or times at which users listened to the selected channels.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
29 words
The system of claim 85 , wherein a user can select any of the multiple channels and can start and stop listening to the selected channel at any time.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 85 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
39 words
The system of claim 85 , wherein the audit log records data indicative of the channels selected by the users, how many users listened to the selected channels, and the times at which users listened to the selected channels.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 85 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction that allows the users to chat.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
50 words
The system of claim 89 , wherein the user interface screen further includes information selected from the group consisting of an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates, and the user interface screen is further adapted to allow the user to play, stop and mute the audio information.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
34 words
The system of claim 89 , wherein the audio information is transmitted by a plurality of servers that are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
32 words
The system of claim 91 , further comprising at least one server adapted to select one or more of the plurality of servers in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 92 , wherein data indicative of how many users are stored in a database, and data indicative of the channels selected by the users are stored in the database.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 92 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 94 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 103
Independent Claim
169 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group comprising a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels available to the user, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to a channel selected by the user; and at least one server adapted to route the individual pieces of information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 104
Independent Claim
169 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group comprising a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels available to the user, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to a channel selected by the user; and at least one server adapted to route the individual pieces of information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
29 words
The system of claim 96 , wherein a user can select any of the multiple channels and can start and stop listening to the selected channel at any time.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 96 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 98 , wherein the user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction that allows the users to chat.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 99 , wherein the user interface screen further includes information selected from the group consisting of an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 99 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 101 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
34 words
The system of claim 99 , wherein the audio information is transmitted by a plurality of servers that are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 112
Independent Claim
183 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction allowing the user to chat and further adapted to allow the user to initiate a purchase of a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: how many users listened to the particular channel; or times at which users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 113
Independent Claim
183 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction allowing the user to chat and further adapted to allow the user to initiate a purchase of a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: how many users listened to the particular channel; or times at which users listened to the particular channel.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 104 , wherein the user interface screen further includes information selected from the group consisting of: an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
33 words
The system of claim 104 , further comprising at least one server adapted to control the routing of the individual pieces of audio information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 104 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 107 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 118
Independent Claim
171 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user in the group to initiate two-way interaction allowing the user to chat and further adapted to allow the user to initiate a purchase of a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and at least one server adapted to route the individual pieces of audio information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 119
Independent Claim
171 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information over a communications network to a group of users that selected a particular channel, the system comprising: at least one server adapted to transmit the continuous sequence of individual pieces of audio information at approximately the same time to each user in the group that selected the particular channel; an application that generates a user interface screen adapted to allow a user in the group to initiate two-way interaction allowing the user to chat and further adapted to allow the user to initiate a purchase of a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted, the user interface screen including: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information, wherein the channels include different types of music; and a program guide that provides information relating to the particular channel; and at least one server adapted to route the individual pieces of audio information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
49 words
The system of claim 109 , wherein the user interface screen further includes information selected from the group consisting of: an album cover, artist information, song lyrics, and tour dates, and wherein a user in the group can start and stop listening to the particular channel at any time.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
34 words
The system of claim 110 , wherein the audio information is transmitted by a plurality of servers that are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 110 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
15 words
The system of claim 112 , wherein the advertising information includes content that is varied.
Claim 124
Independent Claim
133 words
A system for streaming audio over a communications network, the system comprising: at least one server configured to transmit a continuous sequence of packets containing audio information, wherein the continuous sequence of packets is transmitted at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers; a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information; and a program guide that provides program information for at least one of the available channels; and at least one server configured to record which user computers received the audio information, which of the available channels were received, or times at which any of the available channels were received.
Claim 125
Independent Claim
133 words
A system for streaming audio over a communications network, the system comprising: at least one server configured to transmit a continuous sequence of packets containing audio information, wherein the continuous sequence of packets is transmitted at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers; a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information; and a program guide that provides program information for at least one of the available channels; and at least one server configured to record which user computers received the audio information, which of the available channels were received, or times at which any of the available channels were received.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
31 words
The system of claim 114 , wherein the user interface further comprises an order placing feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to place an order for a product.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 114 , wherein the user interface further comprises a two-way interaction feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to participate in a chat session.
Claim 128
Independent Claim
131 words
A method for streaming audio over a communications network, comprising the steps of: transmitting a continuous sequence of packets containing audio information, wherein the continuous sequence of packets is transmitted at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers; providing a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information; and a program guide that provides program information for at least one of the available channels; and generating a database that includes data indicative of how many user computers received the audio information, which of the available channels were received, or times at which any of the available channels were received.
Claim 129
Independent Claim
131 words
A method for streaming audio over a communications network, comprising the steps of: transmitting a continuous sequence of packets containing audio information, wherein the continuous sequence of packets is transmitted at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers; providing a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information; and a program guide that provides program information for at least one of the available channels; and generating a database that includes data indicative of how many user computers received the audio information, which of the available channels were received, or times at which any of the available channels were received.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method of claim 117 , wherein the user interface further comprises an order placing feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to place an order for a product.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 117 , wherein the user interface further comprises a two-way interaction feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to participate in a chat session.
Claim 132
Independent Claim
196 words
A system for streaming multiple channels of audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: a plurality of first servers configured to transmit the multiple channels of audio information, each channel including an independent continuous sequence of packets containing audio information, where said plurality of first servers are configured so that the audio information for a particular channel is transmitted at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers that requested the particular channel; at least one second server adapted to route the audio information to the user computers through selected first servers of said plurality of first servers in response to selection signals received from the user computers; and a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: an order placing feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to place an order for a product; a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels, wherein the multiple channels include channels featuring different types of music; and a program guide that provides program information relating to a particular channel of the multiple channels.
Claim 133
Independent Claim
196 words
A system for streaming multiple channels of audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: a plurality of first servers configured to transmit the multiple channels of audio information, each channel including an independent continuous sequence of packets containing audio information, where said plurality of first servers are configured so that the audio information for a particular channel is transmitted at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers that requested the particular channel; at least one second server adapted to route the audio information to the user computers through selected first servers of said plurality of first servers in response to selection signals received from the user computers; and a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: an order placing feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to place an order for a product; a channel guide that includes a list of the multiple channels, wherein the multiple channels include channels featuring different types of music; and a program guide that provides program information relating to a particular channel of the multiple channels.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 120 , wherein the user interface further comprises a two-way interaction feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to participate in a chat session.
Claim 135
Independent Claim
170 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of packets of audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: at least one server configured to transmit the packets at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers; a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: an order placing feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to place an order for a CD that is relevant to the audio information; a two-way interaction feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to participate in a chat session; a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information; and a program guide that provides program information for at least one of the available channels; and at least one server configured to record which user computers received the audio information, which of the available channels were received, or times at which any of the available channels were received.
Claim 136
Independent Claim
170 words
A system for streaming a continuous sequence of packets of audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: at least one server configured to transmit the packets at approximately the same time to each of multiple user computers; a software application configured to be loaded onto each of the user computers, wherein the software application contains instructions for generating a user interface comprising: an order placing feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to place an order for a CD that is relevant to the audio information; a two-way interaction feature that allows users of the multiple user computers to participate in a chat session; a channel guide that includes a list of available channels of audio information; and a program guide that provides program information for at least one of the available channels; and at least one server configured to record which user computers received the audio information, which of the available channels were received, or times at which any of the available channels were received.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
27 words
The system of claim 122 , further comprising at least one server adapted to route the packets in response to selection signals received from the user computers.
Claim 138
Independent Claim
150 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group comprising a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates at least one user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: the channels selected by the users; how many users listened to the selected channels; or times at which users listened to the selected channels.
Claim 139
Independent Claim
150 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group comprising a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates at least one user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product; and at least one server adapted to maintain an audit log that records data indicative of at least one of: the channels selected by the users; how many users listened to the selected channels; or times at which users listened to the selected channels.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
29 words
The system of claim 124 , wherein a user can select any of the multiple channels and can start and stop listening to the selected channel at any time.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
23 words
The system of claim 124 , wherein the product that may be purchased is relevant to the audio information that is being transmitted.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 124 , wherein the at least one user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction that allows the users to chat.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 124 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 144
Independent Claim
128 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group comprising a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates at least one user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product; and at least one server adapted to route the individual pieces of information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 145
Independent Claim
128 words
A system for streaming audio information over a communications network, the system comprising: multiple channels of audio information, each channel of the multiple channels including an independent continuous sequence of individual pieces of information; at least one server adapted to transmit the audio information of each channel, said server configured so that the audio information for a particular channel of the multiple channels is transmitted at approximately the same time to a group comprising a set of all users that selected the particular channel; an application that generates at least one user interface screen adapted to allow a user to initiate a purchase of a product; and at least one server adapted to route the individual pieces of information in response to selection signals received from the users.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
29 words
The system of claim 129 , wherein a user can select any of the multiple channels and can start and stop listening to the selected channel at any time.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 129 , wherein the product is a CD that is relevant to the audio information being transmitted.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 129 , wherein the at least one user interface screen is adapted to allow a user to initiate two-way interaction that allows the users to chat.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
20 words
The system of claim 129 , further comprising at least one server adapted to send advertising information to the users.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
34 words
The system of claim 129 , wherein the audio information is transmitted by a plurality of servers that are configured to be scalable so that any number of users can receive the audio information.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
34 words
The system of claim 134 , wherein the at least one server adapted to route selects one or more of the plurality of servers in response to the selection signals received from the users.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2009-07-17 | 2010-01-16 | 2010-07-18 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2013-07-17 | 2014-01-16 | 2014-07-18 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2017-07-17 | 2018-01-16 | 2018-07-18 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |