WO2008088606A1 - Method and system for dynamic modification of messages in networks - Google Patents

Method and system for dynamic modification of messages in networks Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2008088606A1
WO2008088606A1 PCT/US2007/083599 US2007083599W WO2008088606A1 WO 2008088606 A1 WO2008088606 A1 WO 2008088606A1 US 2007083599 W US2007083599 W US 2007083599W WO 2008088606 A1 WO2008088606 A1 WO 2008088606A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
electronic device
query
user
update message
response
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2007/083599
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Subir Saha
Samir Dilipkumar Saklikar
Pradeep R. Garani
Original Assignee
Motorola, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Motorola, Inc. filed Critical Motorola, Inc.
Publication of WO2008088606A1 publication Critical patent/WO2008088606A1/en

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Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06QINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/10Office automation; Time management
    • G06Q10/107Computer-aided management of electronic mailing [e-mailing]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L51/00User-to-user messaging in packet-switching networks, transmitted according to store-and-forward or real-time protocols, e.g. e-mail
    • H04L51/21Monitoring or handling of messages
    • H04L51/234Monitoring or handling of messages for tracking messages
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L51/00User-to-user messaging in packet-switching networks, transmitted according to store-and-forward or real-time protocols, e.g. e-mail
    • H04L51/06Message adaptation to terminal or network requirements
    • H04L51/063Content adaptation, e.g. replacement of unsuitable content

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to communication in a network, and more particularly, to a method and system for dynamic modification of messages in the network.
  • a network includes a plurality of interconnected electronic devices.
  • the electronic devices are capable of communicating with each other.
  • Examples of an electronic device include, but are not limited to, a personal computer, a mobile phone, a laptop and personal digital assistant (PDA).
  • PDA personal digital assistant
  • the electronic devices can communicate by exchanging messages with each other. Examples of the messages include, but are not limited to, short message service (SMS) messages, electronic mails (e-mails), video messages, and audio messages.
  • SMS short message service
  • e-mails electronic mails
  • video messages video messages
  • audio messages audio messages.
  • a user of an electronic device can send messages to other users to ask queries. Similarly, the user can also answer queries asked by other users.
  • a user can conduct a social voting by sending a message including a question "Which movie?" with three choices, for example, "Movie A", Movie B” and “Movie C” to the other users.
  • the user can derive a statistical conclusion based on responses received from the other users and send the result back to the other users.
  • the user may wish to alter the already sent message to include some extra information. For example, a user sends a message to the other user asking about a good furniture shop in New York. If, after sending the message, the user realizes that only the information about wooden furniture is needed, then the user has to rewrite and resend a new message to indicate this change. Furthermore, the other users have to review (or read) the new message, to understand that it is an update of the already received message. Moreover, in case of social voting, multiple interactions through messages, for example, the answers and choices, between members of a social voting group can be required before the group arrives at an agreement. Statistically, a disagreement is possible when the number of choices offered to the other users is greater than the number of the other users.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network where various embodiments of the present invention can be practiced
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is an exemplary graphical user interface of an electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
  • a method for dynamic modification of a query in a network is provided.
  • the method is implemented at an electronic device in the network and the method includes sending the query to one or more electronic devices. Further, the method includes formulating an update message. The update message facilitates modification of an already sent query. Furthermore, the method includes sending the update message to the electronic device.
  • a method for dynamic modification of a response is provided.
  • the method is implemented at an electronic device.
  • the method includes receiving a query from a questioning electronic device. Further, the method includes sending the response to the questioning electronic device.
  • the response corresponds to the query. Further, the method includes formulating a response update message.
  • the response update message facilitates modification of the response at the questioning electronic device. Furthermore, the method includes sending the response update message to the questioning electronic device.
  • the present invention provides an electronic device including a transceiver and a processor.
  • the transceiver is configured to exchange a message with one or more electronic devices present in the network.
  • the processor is configured to formulate an update message, which facilitates modification of the message.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network 100 where various embodiments of the present invention can be practiced.
  • the network include, but are not limited to, a mobile phone network, a local area network and the Internet.
  • the network 100 includes a plurality of electronic devices.
  • the network 100 is shown to include a first electronic device 102, a second electronic device 104, a third electronic device 106 and a fourth electronic device 108.
  • the electronic devices include, but are not limited to, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant, a personal computer and a server.
  • the plurality of electronic devices are interconnected through wired and/or wireless connections as shown in the exemplary network 100.
  • Examples of the wired connections include, but are not limited to, a base power lines and an Ethernet link.
  • Examples of the wireless connections include, but are not limited to, a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) connection, a Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) connection, a Global system for mobile communication (GSM) connection and a Code division multiple access (CDMA) connection.
  • WiFi Wireless Fidelity
  • WiMAX Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access
  • GSM Global system for mobile communication
  • CDMA Code division multiple access
  • the plurality of electronic devices can communicate with each other.
  • the electronic device 102 can send messages to the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106.
  • the messages include, but are not limited to, a query and a response to the query.
  • the messages can be sent using different communication protocols known in the art. Examples of the protocols include, but are not limited to, simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), session initiation protocol (SIP), short messaging service (SMS), and multimedia message service (MMS).
  • SMTP simple mail transfer protocol
  • HTTP hypertext transfer protocol
  • SIP session initiation protocol
  • SMS short messaging service
  • MMS multimedia message service
  • exchanging messages can facilitate social voting.
  • a first user who is using the electronic device 102, decides to watch a movie with a second user and a third user, who are using the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106 respectively.
  • the first user can send a query asking "Which movie would you like to watch?" to the second and third users.
  • the first user can also send a list of movies, which the first user wishes to watch.
  • the second user and the third user can view the query on the electronic devices 104 and 106 respectively.
  • the second user and the third user can either choose from the list or otherwise suggest some other movie, which they would like to watch and send the response back to the first user.
  • the present invention can further ameliorate the process of social voting as described in conjunction with the FIG. 7. It will be readily apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art that the plurality of electronic devices can be similar structurally and/or functionally. However, for the purpose of this description, the present invention will be explained in conjunction with the electronic device 102.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device
  • the electronic device 102 includes a transceiver 202 and a processor 204.
  • the transceiver 202 can send messages to other electronic devices.
  • the processor 204 can formulate an update message that facilitates modification of the messages at the other electronic devices.
  • the transceiver 202 can send a query saying "Which movie to watch?" that is input by a first user to the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 104 and 106 renders the query to a second user and a third user respectively.
  • GUI Graphical User Interface
  • an electronic device can render the queries, answers, and other messages in any other mode including visual, audio, and video.
  • the second user responds to the query earlier than the third user.
  • the response is received at the transceiver 202.
  • the processor 204 formulates an update message based on the response received from the second user.
  • the update message is capable of modifying the query at the electronic device 104 and/or the electronic device 106.
  • the first user can add new choices on his/her own or add the response received from the second user.
  • the update message can modify the query by appending the new choices or the received response.
  • the transceiver 202 sends the update message to the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 106 modifies the query to incorporate the update message, and thereby, the modified query includes the response of the electronic device 104. For example, after receiving the update message the electronic device 106 appends the new choices or the received response to the query.
  • the transceiver 202 can receive a query from another electronic device.
  • the query is then rendered at the electronic device 102.
  • the processor 204 modifies the query, if an update message is received from the another electronic device.
  • the modifications are reflected in the rendered query also.
  • FIG. 3 is a flow diagram 300 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • a method for dynamic modification of a query is illustrated.
  • the method for dynamic modification of the query in the network 100 is initiated at an electronic device, for example, the electronic device 102.
  • the electronic device 102 receives a query.
  • the electronic device 102 receives the query from a user.
  • a first user who is the user of the electronic device 102, wishes to gather information from another user about a movie 'ABC, then the first user can enter a question "Is movie 'ABC worth watching?" through a user interface of the electronic device 102.
  • the method also includes receiving the query from an initiating electronic device.
  • a user of the initiating electronic device can send the query to the electronic device 102.
  • the query is sent to one or more electronic devices.
  • the transceiver 202 can send the query, received from the user or from the initiating electronic device, to the electronic devices 104 and 106.
  • the transceiver 202 sends the query to the electronic device 104 and includes contact information of devices to which the query needs to be further propagated, for example, the electronic device 106. The contact information is included in the query.
  • the electronic device 104 then sends the query to the electronic device 106.
  • the query can include one or more questions.
  • each question can be associated with a trust requirement value that indicates minimum level of confidence that an answerer should associate with his/her answer before responding.
  • the first user can provide a trust level requirement of 0.9 before sending the question to the electronic devices 104 and 106.
  • the trust value requirement is known to the electronic device 102 only, and is not propagated to the electronic devices 104 and 106.
  • a second user and a third user of the electronic devices 104 and 106 respectively can provide answers for the question and can also associate corresponding trust values with their answers.
  • the second and the third users can associate the trust values of 0.85 and 0.95, respectively.
  • the trust values indicate the level of confidence that the users have in their answer.
  • the answer is rendered at the electronic device 102, only when the trust value of the answer is greater than the trust requirement value. For example, only the answer received from the third user is rendered at the electronic device 102.
  • the query can also include one or more suggested answers for each question.
  • the first user can also attach a list of choices with every question that is a part of the query.
  • the first user can also associate a preference value with each suggested answer.
  • the preference value indicates the first user's preference order of the suggested answers.
  • the first user can enter a query saying, "Which is the best movie among the following:" and can give the choices of 'Movie A', 'Movie B' and 'Movie C along with the query.
  • the first user can also assign the preference values of 1, 3, and 2 with the 'Movie A', 'Movie B' and 'Movie C respectively.
  • the choices are rendered at the electronic devices 104 and 106, according to the assigned preference values.
  • the user can modify/alter the query at the electronic device 102, based on the requirements of the user. For example, the user can add a new question to the query, alter the trust requirement value of a question of the one or more questions, add a new choice to the list of choices, or alter the preference value associated with the choices.
  • the contact information of additional devices, to which the query should be further propagated can be added in the query for example, the electronic device 108.
  • an update message is formulated based on the modifications in the query.
  • the update message is formulated by the processor 204, based on the modification introduced in the query by the user. The update message will facilitate incorporating the modifications at the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106.
  • the update message is sent to at least one of the one or more electronic devices.
  • the update message is sent by the transceiver 202 to the electronic devices 104 and 106.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the update message to the electronic device 104.
  • the electronic device 104 sends the update message to the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 104 can send the modified query, instead of sending the update message only, to the electronic device 108.
  • the update message can modify the query at the electronic device 104 and/or the electronic device 106. Thereafter, the method is terminated at step 310.
  • FIG. 4 is a flow diagram 400 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the method for dynamic modification of a query is illustrated.
  • the method for dynamic modification of the query is initiated at the electronic device 102.
  • the electronic device 102 receives a query.
  • the electronic device 102 receives the query from the first user.
  • the electronic device 102 can create a query based on instructions received from the first user.
  • the first user can provide some keywords, and the electronic device 102 can form the query based on the keywords.
  • the electronic device 102 can receive the query from an initiating electronic device.
  • the query is sent to one or more electronic devices.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the query to the electronic devices 104 and 106.
  • a query including a question and three suggested choices is sent to the electronic devices 104 and 106 through the transceiver 202.
  • the electronic devices 104 and 106 then render the query to the second and third users respectively.
  • a response is received from a responding electronic device.
  • the response is received from the electronic device 104.
  • the response can be an additional choice, which is suggested by the second user.
  • the response can indicate the choice selected by the second user.
  • the second user may wish to delegate the right of responding to a delegated- to electronic device.
  • the delegated-to electronic device can be one of the one or more electronic devices, i.e., the electronic devices 104 and 106.
  • the electronic device 106 can be the delegated-to electronic device.
  • the delegated-to electronic device for example, the electronic device 108 may not be from the one or more electronic devices.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the query along with any updated information to the electronic device 108.
  • the method also includes adding the electronic device 108 into the one or more electronic devices. The electronic device 102 adds the electronic device 108 into the one or more electronic devices when the electronic device 108 is not a part of the one or more electronic devices.
  • the response may indicate to delegate the current and any further messages to another electronic device.
  • the responding electronic device i.e., the electronic device 104 can provide an abstinence response, when the second user wishes to abstain from responding to the query. In this scenario, the second user will be updated with responses of other users or any changes introduced in the query.
  • the update message is formulated based on the response.
  • the processor 204 formulates the update message based on the response of the second user.
  • formulating the update message also includes incorporating instructions to notify the at least one electronic device, i.e., electronic devices 104, 106, and 108 about the modification of the query.
  • the update message can facilitate altering the query at the electronic device 104, the electronic devices 106, and/or at any other electronic device, to which the update message is sent.
  • the update message is sent to at least one of the one or more electronic devices.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the update message to the electronic device 106.
  • the update message modifies the query at the electronic device 106 to inform the response of the second user to the third user by appending the additional choice to the three suggested choices, when the second user has provided the additional choice.
  • the update message can update the query at the electronic device 106 to indicate the choice selected by the second user.
  • the update message can also update the query to include the identity of the responding electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104.
  • the update message can update the query at the electronic device 106 to indicate that the second user has delegated rights to respond on his/her behalf.
  • a new question can be asked or added to the existing query, based on the response. For example, if a set of users have replied negatively for the option of going for a movie, then a new question saying "Which restaurant can we can meet for eating out?" can be asked.
  • the electronic device 102 can send the conclusion to the electronic devices 104, 106 and 108.
  • the electronic device 102 can send the conclusion through an update message.
  • the user of the electronic device 102 can disable the options for responding, delegating and abstaining through the update message. Thereafter, the method of dynamic modification of the messages is terminated at step 412.
  • the electronic device 102 is described as a questioning electronic device that sends the query to other electronic devices in the network 100.
  • the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106 are described as answering electronic devices that respond to the query.
  • the electronic device 102, 104 and 106 can act as either questioning or answering electronic devices.
  • FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the method for dynamic modification of a response is illustrated.
  • the method for dynamic modification of the response is initiated at an electronic device, for example, the electronic device 102.
  • a query is received from a questioning electronic device.
  • the electronic device 104 For example, the electronic device 104.
  • the electronic device 102 renders the query to the first user.
  • the query can be "Can you please recommend a good movie?"
  • the first user inputs the response to the query in the electronic device 102 through a user interface.
  • the first user inputs the answer as a 'movie A'.
  • the response is sent to the questioning electronic device.
  • the transceiver 202 can send the response to the electronic device 104.
  • the electronic device 104 renders the response to the second user.
  • the response can include one or more answers to the query.
  • the response can also include trust values associated with each of the one or more answers.
  • the trust values indicate the level of confidence that the first user has in his/her answers. For example, if the first user is not confident about the correctness of the response, he/she can associate a lower trust value with the response.
  • the answers can be given in a preference-based listing.
  • the first user can modify the response based on some new learning. For example, the first user can add or remove an answer from the one or more answers or can alter the trust value, which he/she had associated with the sent response. For example, if the first user was asked to recommend a good movie and he/she recommended a 'movie A'. But after responding, the first user realized that a 'movie B' is better than 'movie A' and can alter his/her response.
  • a response update message is formulated based on modifications introduced by the user. The response update message is capable of modifying the response at the questioning electronic device.
  • the response update message is sent to the questioning electronic device.
  • the transceiver 202 sends the response update message to the electronic device 104.
  • the response update message modifies the previously sent response at the electronic device 104. For example, the response displayed to the second user was 'movie A'.
  • the electronic device 104 After receiving the response update message, the electronic device 104 notifies the second user that the first user wishes to change the response.
  • the electronic device 104 using the response update message updates the display to 'movie B' and removes 'movie A' from display of the electronic device 104.
  • the electronic device 104 updates the display, based on the response update message without requiring any acknowledgement from the user.
  • the method for dynamic modification of the response is terminated.
  • FIG. 6 is a flow diagram 600 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the method for dynamic modification of a response is illustrated.
  • the method for dynamic modification of the response is initiated at an electronic device.
  • the electronic device 102 For example, the electronic device 102.
  • a query is received from a questioning electronic device, for example, the electronic device 104.
  • the questioning electronic device i.e., the electronic device 104 receives the query from an initiating electronic device for example, the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 102 renders the query to the first user.
  • the first user inputs a response to the query.
  • the response is sent to the questioning electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104.
  • the questioning electronic device i.e., the electronic device 104 forwards the response to the initiating electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 106.
  • an update message is received that facilitates modifications in the query.
  • the transceiver 202 receives the update message from the electronic device 104.
  • the processor 204 notifies the first user about the update message. For example, the first user is notified by blinking (or flashing) a message on the user interface of the electronic device 102 that the query is changed and asks for permission to incorporate changes.
  • the query is modified based on the update message.
  • the processor 204 modifies the query based on the update message.
  • the electronic device 102 renders the modified query.
  • the query is modified after getting an acknowledgement from the first user.
  • the first user can modify the response based on the modified query.
  • a response update message is formulated based on the modification introduced by the user in the response.
  • the processor 204 formulates the response update message.
  • the response update message facilitates modification of the response at the electronic device 104.
  • the update message is sent to the questioning electronic device. After receiving the response update message, the response gets modified at the electronic device 104.
  • the electronic device 104 when the electronic device 106 is the initiating electronic device the electronic device 104 further forwards the response update message to the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 104 can receive the response update message before forwarding the response to the initiating electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 104 can send the modified response to the initiating electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 102 can delegate the rights of responding to a delegated-to electronic device, for example, the electronic device 108.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the query and/or the received update message to the electronic device 108.
  • the electronic device 108 can be enabled to respond on behalf of the electronic device 104.
  • the electronic device 102 also notifies the questioning electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104 about the delegation. Thereafter, the method of dynamic modification of the response is terminated at step 616.
  • FIG. 7 is an exemplary graphical user interface (GUI) 700 of an electronic device, in accordance with some embodiment of the present invention.
  • the GUI 700 is shown to include a query block 702, a list block 704, a value block 706, an abstain block 708 and a delegate block 710.
  • the user can activate function of a block by selecting the block by clicking, touching, speaking depending on the user interface.
  • the query block 702 displays the question.
  • the list block 704 displays the one or more choices associated with the question.
  • the value block 706 displays the one or more trust values associated with the one or more choices.
  • the abstain block 708, when selected by the user allows the user to abstain from responding to the query.
  • the delegate block 710 when selected by the user, allows the user to delegate the rights of responding to another user on behalf of the user.
  • the graphical user interface 700 is described using an illustrative example below.
  • the first user of the electronic device 102 wishes to watch a movie with a second user, a third user and a fourth user of the electronic device 104, the electronic device 106 and the electronic device 108, respectively.
  • the first user initiates the method of social voting by inputting a query that includes a question "Which movie to watch?" and a list of choices attached with the query in the electronic device 102.
  • the first user can attach a preference value to each choice of the list of choices.
  • the transceiver 202 sends the query to the electronic device 104, the electronic device 106 and the electronic device 108.
  • the query is displayed at the query block 702 of the graphical user interface 700 of the electronic devices 104, 106 and 108 to display the query to their respective users.
  • the electronic device 102 can also display the query to the first user after sending the query.
  • the graphical user interface 700 further displays the list of choices in the list block 704. In an illustrative arrangement, choices contained in the list are arranged according to the preference value associated with the choices in the list.
  • the graphical user interface 700 includes the value block 706 that displays the preference value attached with each choice of the list.
  • the value block 706 displays the number of users, who have opted for a choice contained in the list.
  • the value block 706 gets updated dynamically after a user, participating in voting, cast his/her vote.
  • the graphical user interface 700 includes the abstain block 708 that allows a user to abstain from voting.
  • the electronic device 104 sends an abstinence response to the electronic device 102, conveying that though the second user is interested in result of the social voting but will not participate.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the update messages to the electronic device 104 that indicates the responses of all the users and, also, thus result of the social voting.
  • the graphical user interface 700 includes the delegate block 710 that would allow a user to delegate the query to a delegating-to electronic device to whom the user wish to delegate the query.
  • the second user delegates the query to the third user (John).
  • the electronic device 104 sends a delegation response to the electronic device 102.
  • the electronic device 102 formulates an update message to inform the electronic device 106 that the electronic device 104 has delegated the query.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the update message to the electronic device 106.
  • the electronic device 106 after receiving the update message informs the third user (John) that the second user has delegated the query to him/her.
  • the electronic device 102 sends the query, if the delegated-to electronic device has not received the query.
  • the electronic device 104 can directly delegate the query to the delegated-to electronic device and inform the electronic device 102 about the delegation.
  • Various embodiments of the present invention offer one or more advantages.
  • the present invention enables a user of an electronic device to make modification in a message that has been sent to another user. Further, the present invention can ameliorate the process of social voting by providing them options to abstain or delegate as discussed above. Further, the present invention reduces the effort of a user to provide new learning by just amending the sent message.
  • the method of dynamic modification of messages may comprise one or more conventional processors and unique stored program instructions that control the one or more processors, to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processor circuits, some, most, or all of the functions of the system described herein.
  • the non-processor circuits may include, but are not limited to, signal drivers, clock circuits, power-source circuits, and user- input devices.
  • these functions may be interpreted as steps of a method of dynamic modification of messages.
  • some or all the functions can be implemented by a state machine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), in which each function, or some combinations of certain of the functions, are implemented as custom logic.
  • ASICs application-specific integrated circuits
  • a combination of the two approaches can also be used. Thus, methods and means for these functions have been described herein.

Abstract

The present invention provides a method and system for dynamic modification of a query in a network. The method at an electronic device in the network comprises sending (302) the query to one or more electronic devices. Further, the method comprises formulating (304) an update message. The update message facilitates a modification of the query at at least one electronic device of the one or more electronic devices. Furthermore, the method comprises sending (306) the update message to the at least one electronic device.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DYNAMIC MODIFICATION OF MESSAGES
IN NETWORKS
[0001] The present invention generally relates to communication in a network, and more particularly, to a method and system for dynamic modification of messages in the network.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A network includes a plurality of interconnected electronic devices.
The electronic devices are capable of communicating with each other. Examples of an electronic device include, but are not limited to, a personal computer, a mobile phone, a laptop and personal digital assistant (PDA). The electronic devices can communicate by exchanging messages with each other. Examples of the messages include, but are not limited to, short message service (SMS) messages, electronic mails (e-mails), video messages, and audio messages. A user of an electronic device can send messages to other users to ask queries. Similarly, the user can also answer queries asked by other users. For example, if a user wishes to go to a movie with three other users, then the user can conduct a social voting by sending a message including a question "Which movie?" with three choices, for example, "Movie A", Movie B" and "Movie C" to the other users. The user can derive a statistical conclusion based on responses received from the other users and send the result back to the other users.
[0003] At times, the user may wish to alter the already sent message to include some extra information. For example, a user sends a message to the other user asking about a good furniture shop in New York. If, after sending the message, the user realizes that only the information about wooden furniture is needed, then the user has to rewrite and resend a new message to indicate this change. Furthermore, the other users have to review (or read) the new message, to understand that it is an update of the already received message. Moreover, in case of social voting, multiple interactions through messages, for example, the answers and choices, between members of a social voting group can be required before the group arrives at an agreement. Statistically, a disagreement is possible when the number of choices offered to the other users is greater than the number of the other users.
[0004] In light of above discussion there is a need for a method and system to alter an already sent message, thereby, reducing the effort required to rewrite and review a message. Moreover, there is a need for a method and system to bias the decision of users taking part in social voting in order to reach an agreement quickly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, and which, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, all in accordance with the present invention.
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network where various embodiments of the present invention can be practiced; [0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;
[0008] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0009] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
[0010] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in a network, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention; and
[0012] FIG. 7 is an exemplary graphical user interface of an electronic device, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
[0013] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated, relative to other elements, to help to in improving an understanding of the embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] Before describing in detail the particular method of dynamic modification of messages in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, it should be observed that the present invention resides primarily in combinations of method steps related to method of dynamic modification of messages in a network. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent for an understanding of the present invention, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art, having the benefit of the description herein.
[0015] In this document, the terms "comprises," "comprising", or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements that are not expressly listed or inherent in such a process, method, article or apparatus. An element proceeded by "comprises ... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article or apparatus that comprises the element. The term "another," as used in this document, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms "includes" and/or "having", as used herein, are defined as comprising.
[0016] For an embodiment, a method for dynamic modification of a query in a network is provided. The method is implemented at an electronic device in the network and the method includes sending the query to one or more electronic devices. Further, the method includes formulating an update message. The update message facilitates modification of an already sent query. Furthermore, the method includes sending the update message to the electronic device.
[0017] For another embodiment, a method for dynamic modification of a response is provided. The method is implemented at an electronic device. The method includes receiving a query from a questioning electronic device. Further, the method includes sending the response to the questioning electronic device. The response corresponds to the query. Further, the method includes formulating a response update message. The response update message facilitates modification of the response at the questioning electronic device. Furthermore, the method includes sending the response update message to the questioning electronic device.
[0018] Further, the present invention provides an electronic device including a transceiver and a processor. The transceiver is configured to exchange a message with one or more electronic devices present in the network. The processor is configured to formulate an update message, which facilitates modification of the message.
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network 100 where various embodiments of the present invention can be practiced. Examples of the network include, but are not limited to, a mobile phone network, a local area network and the Internet. The network 100 includes a plurality of electronic devices. For the purpose of this description, the network 100 is shown to include a first electronic device 102, a second electronic device 104, a third electronic device 106 and a fourth electronic device 108. Examples of the electronic devices include, but are not limited to, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant, a personal computer and a server. The plurality of electronic devices are interconnected through wired and/or wireless connections as shown in the exemplary network 100. Examples of the wired connections include, but are not limited to, a base power lines and an Ethernet link. Examples of the wireless connections include, but are not limited to, a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) connection, a Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) connection, a Global system for mobile communication (GSM) connection and a Code division multiple access (CDMA) connection.
[0020] The plurality of electronic devices can communicate with each other.
For example, the electronic device 102 can send messages to the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106. Examples of the messages include, but are not limited to, a query and a response to the query. The messages can be sent using different communication protocols known in the art. Examples of the protocols include, but are not limited to, simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), session initiation protocol (SIP), short messaging service (SMS), and multimedia message service (MMS). It will be apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art that other protocols can also be employed as desired and may result in performance benefits depending upon the particular needs and requirements of a given application setting.
[0021] For an exemplary embodiment, exchanging messages can facilitate social voting. For example, a first user, who is using the electronic device 102, decides to watch a movie with a second user and a third user, who are using the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106 respectively. For this purpose, the first user can send a query asking "Which movie would you like to watch?" to the second and third users. Further, the first user can also send a list of movies, which the first user wishes to watch. Thereafter, the second user and the third user can view the query on the electronic devices 104 and 106 respectively. In response to the query, the second user and the third user can either choose from the list or otherwise suggest some other movie, which they would like to watch and send the response back to the first user. The present invention can further ameliorate the process of social voting as described in conjunction with the FIG. 7. It will be readily apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art that the plurality of electronic devices can be similar structurally and/or functionally. However, for the purpose of this description, the present invention will be explained in conjunction with the electronic device 102.
[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device
102 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The electronic device 102 includes a transceiver 202 and a processor 204. The transceiver 202 can send messages to other electronic devices. The processor 204 can formulate an update message that facilitates modification of the messages at the other electronic devices. For example, the transceiver 202 can send a query saying "Which movie to watch?" that is input by a first user to the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106. The electronic device 104 and 106 renders the query to a second user and a third user respectively. For the purpose of this description, we have explained the method of rendering through a Graphical User Interface (GUI) in FIG. 7. However, it will be readily apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art that an electronic device can render the queries, answers, and other messages in any other mode including visual, audio, and video. Thereafter, in this example, the second user responds to the query earlier than the third user. The response is received at the transceiver 202. Thereafter, the processor 204 formulates an update message based on the response received from the second user. The update message is capable of modifying the query at the electronic device 104 and/or the electronic device 106. For example, after sending the query, the first user can add new choices on his/her own or add the response received from the second user. The update message can modify the query by appending the new choices or the received response. Further, the transceiver 202 sends the update message to the electronic device 106. On receiving the update message, the electronic device 106 modifies the query to incorporate the update message, and thereby, the modified query includes the response of the electronic device 104. For example, after receiving the update message the electronic device 106 appends the new choices or the received response to the query.
[0023] For an embodiment, the transceiver 202 can receive a query from another electronic device. The query is then rendered at the electronic device 102. Thereafter, the processor 204 modifies the query, if an update message is received from the another electronic device. In one scenario, the modifications are reflected in the rendered query also.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram 300 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. For the purpose of the description of the flow diagram 300, a method for dynamic modification of a query is illustrated. At step 302, the method for dynamic modification of the query in the network 100 is initiated at an electronic device, for example, the electronic device 102. The electronic device 102 receives a query. For an embodiment, the electronic device 102 receives the query from a user. For example, a first user, who is the user of the electronic device 102, wishes to gather information from another user about a movie 'ABC, then the first user can enter a question "Is movie 'ABC worth watching?" through a user interface of the electronic device 102. For another embodiment, the method also includes receiving the query from an initiating electronic device. For example, a user of the initiating electronic device can send the query to the electronic device 102. At step 304, the query is sent to one or more electronic devices. For example, the transceiver 202 can send the query, received from the user or from the initiating electronic device, to the electronic devices 104 and 106. For an embodiment, the transceiver 202 sends the query to the electronic device 104 and includes contact information of devices to which the query needs to be further propagated, for example, the electronic device 106. The contact information is included in the query. In the embodiment, the electronic device 104 then sends the query to the electronic device 106.
[0025] For an embodiment, the query can include one or more questions.
Further, each question can be associated with a trust requirement value that indicates minimum level of confidence that an answerer should associate with his/her answer before responding. For example, the first user can provide a trust level requirement of 0.9 before sending the question to the electronic devices 104 and 106. In one arrangement, the trust value requirement is known to the electronic device 102 only, and is not propagated to the electronic devices 104 and 106. Thereafter, a second user and a third user of the electronic devices 104 and 106 respectively, can provide answers for the question and can also associate corresponding trust values with their answers. For example, the second and the third users can associate the trust values of 0.85 and 0.95, respectively. The trust values indicate the level of confidence that the users have in their answer. In the above mentioned arrangement, the answer is rendered at the electronic device 102, only when the trust value of the answer is greater than the trust requirement value. For example, only the answer received from the third user is rendered at the electronic device 102.
[0026] For another embodiment, the query can also include one or more suggested answers for each question. For instance, the first user can also attach a list of choices with every question that is a part of the query. Further, the first user can also associate a preference value with each suggested answer. The preference value indicates the first user's preference order of the suggested answers. For example, the first user can enter a query saying, "Which is the best movie among the following:" and can give the choices of 'Movie A', 'Movie B' and 'Movie C along with the query. Further, the first user can also assign the preference values of 1, 3, and 2 with the 'Movie A', 'Movie B' and 'Movie C respectively. In one arrangement, the choices are rendered at the electronic devices 104 and 106, according to the assigned preference values.
[0027] After sending the query, the user can modify/alter the query at the electronic device 102, based on the requirements of the user. For example, the user can add a new question to the query, alter the trust requirement value of a question of the one or more questions, add a new choice to the list of choices, or alter the preference value associated with the choices. In another example, the contact information of additional devices, to which the query should be further propagated, can be added in the query for example, the electronic device 108. At step 306, an update message is formulated based on the modifications in the query. For example, the update message is formulated by the processor 204, based on the modification introduced in the query by the user. The update message will facilitate incorporating the modifications at the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106.
[0028] Thereafter, at step 308, the update message is sent to at least one of the one or more electronic devices. For example, the update message is sent by the transceiver 202 to the electronic devices 104 and 106. For another embodiment, the electronic device 102 sends the update message to the electronic device 104. Thereafter, the electronic device 104 sends the update message to the electronic device 106. Further, in the example where the electronic device 108 is added as an additional device for propagating the query, the electronic device 104 can send the modified query, instead of sending the update message only, to the electronic device 108. The update message can modify the query at the electronic device 104 and/or the electronic device 106. Thereafter, the method is terminated at step 310.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram 400 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. For the purpose of the description of the flow diagram 400 the method for dynamic modification of a query is illustrated. At step 402, the method for dynamic modification of the query is initiated at the electronic device 102. The electronic device 102 receives a query. For an embodiment, the electronic device 102 receives the query from the first user. For another embodiment, the electronic device 102 can create a query based on instructions received from the first user. For example, the first user can provide some keywords, and the electronic device 102 can form the query based on the keywords. For another embodiment, the electronic device 102 can receive the query from an initiating electronic device.
[0030] At step 404, the query is sent to one or more electronic devices. For example, the electronic device 102 sends the query to the electronic devices 104 and 106. For instance, a query including a question and three suggested choices is sent to the electronic devices 104 and 106 through the transceiver 202. The electronic devices 104 and 106 then render the query to the second and third users respectively. At step 406, a response is received from a responding electronic device. For example, the response is received from the electronic device 104. In one scenario, the response can be an additional choice, which is suggested by the second user. In another scenario, the response can indicate the choice selected by the second user. In another scenario, the second user may wish to delegate the right of responding to a delegated- to electronic device. In one scenario, the delegated-to electronic device can be one of the one or more electronic devices, i.e., the electronic devices 104 and 106. For example, in this case, the electronic device 106 can be the delegated-to electronic device. In another scenario, the delegated-to electronic device, for example, the electronic device 108 may not be from the one or more electronic devices. In this scenario, the electronic device 102 sends the query along with any updated information to the electronic device 108. Further, in this scenario, the method also includes adding the electronic device 108 into the one or more electronic devices. The electronic device 102 adds the electronic device 108 into the one or more electronic devices when the electronic device 108 is not a part of the one or more electronic devices. In another scenario, the response may indicate to delegate the current and any further messages to another electronic device. In another scenario, the responding electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104 can provide an abstinence response, when the second user wishes to abstain from responding to the query. In this scenario, the second user will be updated with responses of other users or any changes introduced in the query.
[0031] At step 408, the update message is formulated based on the response.
For example, the processor 204 formulates the update message based on the response of the second user. For an embodiment, formulating the update message also includes incorporating instructions to notify the at least one electronic device, i.e., electronic devices 104, 106, and 108 about the modification of the query. Further, the update message can facilitate altering the query at the electronic device 104, the electronic devices 106, and/or at any other electronic device, to which the update message is sent.
[0032] At step 410, the update message is sent to at least one of the one or more electronic devices. For example the electronic device 102 sends the update message to the electronic device 106. The update message modifies the query at the electronic device 106 to inform the response of the second user to the third user by appending the additional choice to the three suggested choices, when the second user has provided the additional choice. In another example, the update message can update the query at the electronic device 106 to indicate the choice selected by the second user. Further, the update message can also update the query to include the identity of the responding electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104. In another example, the update message can update the query at the electronic device 106 to indicate that the second user has delegated rights to respond on his/her behalf. Further, in an exemplary scenario, a new question can be asked or added to the existing query, based on the response. For example, if a set of users have replied negatively for the option of going for a movie, then a new question saying "Which restaurant can we can meet for eating out?" can be asked.
[0033] In an exemplary scenario, when the method depicted in flow diagram
400 is used for social voting purposes, then, upon reaching a conclusion, the electronic device 102 can send the conclusion to the electronic devices 104, 106 and 108. The electronic device 102 can send the conclusion through an update message. Further, in this scenario, the user of the electronic device 102 can disable the options for responding, delegating and abstaining through the update message. Thereafter, the method of dynamic modification of the messages is terminated at step 412.
[0034] In the abovementioned description, the electronic device 102 is described as a questioning electronic device that sends the query to other electronic devices in the network 100. Moreover, the electronic device 104 and the electronic device 106 are described as answering electronic devices that respond to the query. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the electronic device 102, 104 and 106 can act as either questioning or answering electronic devices. The flow diagram 500 and 600 illustrated below, describe the electronic device 104 as the questioning electronic device and the electronic device 102 as the answering electronic device.
[0035] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. For the purpose of the description of the flow diagram 500 the method for dynamic modification of a response is illustrated. At step 502, the method for dynamic modification of the response is initiated at an electronic device, for example, the electronic device 102.
[0036] At step 504, a query is received from a questioning electronic device.
For example, the electronic device 104. The electronic device 102 renders the query to the first user. For example, the query can be "Can you please recommend a good movie?" Thereafter, the first user inputs the response to the query in the electronic device 102 through a user interface. For instance, the first user, inputs the answer as a 'movie A'. At step 506, the response is sent to the questioning electronic device. For example, the transceiver 202 can send the response to the electronic device 104. Thereafter, the electronic device 104 renders the response to the second user. For an embodiment, the response can include one or more answers to the query. For another embodiment, the response can also include trust values associated with each of the one or more answers. The trust values indicate the level of confidence that the first user has in his/her answers. For example, if the first user is not confident about the correctness of the response, he/she can associate a lower trust value with the response. For another embodiment, the answers can be given in a preference-based listing.
[0037] After sending the response, the first user can modify the response based on some new learning. For example, the first user can add or remove an answer from the one or more answers or can alter the trust value, which he/she had associated with the sent response. For example, if the first user was asked to recommend a good movie and he/she recommended a 'movie A'. But after responding, the first user realized that a 'movie B' is better than 'movie A' and can alter his/her response. [0038] At step 508, a response update message is formulated based on modifications introduced by the user. The response update message is capable of modifying the response at the questioning electronic device. At step 510, the response update message is sent to the questioning electronic device. The transceiver 202 sends the response update message to the electronic device 104. The response update message modifies the previously sent response at the electronic device 104. For example, the response displayed to the second user was 'movie A'. After receiving the response update message, the electronic device 104 notifies the second user that the first user wishes to change the response. After receiving acknowledgment from the second user, the electronic device 104 using the response update message, updates the display to 'movie B' and removes 'movie A' from display of the electronic device 104. In another example, the electronic device 104 updates the display, based on the response update message without requiring any acknowledgement from the user. At step 512, the method for dynamic modification of the response is terminated.
[0039] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram 600 illustrating a method for dynamic modification of messages in the network 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. For the purpose of the description of the flow diagram 600 the method for dynamic modification of a response is illustrated. At step 602, the method for dynamic modification of the response is initiated at an electronic device. For example, the electronic device 102. At step 604, a query is received from a questioning electronic device, for example, the electronic device 104. For an embodiment, the questioning electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104 receives the query from an initiating electronic device for example, the electronic device 106. Thereafter, the electronic device 102 renders the query to the first user. Thereafter, the first user inputs a response to the query.
[0040] At step 606, the response is sent to the questioning electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104. For an embodiment, the questioning electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104 forwards the response to the initiating electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 106. At step 608, an update message is received that facilitates modifications in the query. For example, the transceiver 202 receives the update message from the electronic device 104. For an embodiment, the processor 204 notifies the first user about the update message. For example, the first user is notified by blinking (or flashing) a message on the user interface of the electronic device 102 that the query is changed and asks for permission to incorporate changes.
[0041] At step 610, the query is modified based on the update message. For example, the processor 204 modifies the query based on the update message. Thereafter, the electronic device 102 renders the modified query. For an embodiment, the query is modified after getting an acknowledgement from the first user. The first user can modify the response based on the modified query. At step 612, a response update message is formulated based on the modification introduced by the user in the response. For example, the processor 204 formulates the response update message. The response update message facilitates modification of the response at the electronic device 104. At step 614, the update message is sent to the questioning electronic device. After receiving the response update message, the response gets modified at the electronic device 104. For an embodiment, when the electronic device 106 is the initiating electronic device the electronic device 104 further forwards the response update message to the electronic device 106. In one scenario, the electronic device 104 can receive the response update message before forwarding the response to the initiating electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 106. In this scenario, the electronic device 104 can send the modified response to the initiating electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 106.
[0042] For an embodiment, the electronic device 102 can delegate the rights of responding to a delegated-to electronic device, for example, the electronic device 108. In the embodiment, the electronic device 102 sends the query and/or the received update message to the electronic device 108. After sending the query to the electronic device 108, the electronic device 108 can be enabled to respond on behalf of the electronic device 104. Further, the electronic device 102 also notifies the questioning electronic device, i.e., the electronic device 104 about the delegation. Thereafter, the method of dynamic modification of the response is terminated at step 616.
[0043] To aid the understanding of implementation and operation of the invention at a questioning and/or an answering electronic device an exemplary graphical user interface is described in conjunction with the FIG. 7.
[0044] FIG. 7 is an exemplary graphical user interface (GUI) 700 of an electronic device, in accordance with some embodiment of the present invention. The GUI 700 is shown to include a query block 702, a list block 704, a value block 706, an abstain block 708 and a delegate block 710. The user can activate function of a block by selecting the block by clicking, touching, speaking depending on the user interface. The query block 702 displays the question. The list block 704 displays the one or more choices associated with the question. The value block 706 displays the one or more trust values associated with the one or more choices. The abstain block 708, when selected by the user, allows the user to abstain from responding to the query. The delegate block 710, when selected by the user, allows the user to delegate the rights of responding to another user on behalf of the user.
[0045] The graphical user interface 700 is described using an illustrative example below. The first user of the electronic device 102 wishes to watch a movie with a second user, a third user and a fourth user of the electronic device 104, the electronic device 106 and the electronic device 108, respectively. The first user initiates the method of social voting by inputting a query that includes a question "Which movie to watch?" and a list of choices attached with the query in the electronic device 102. In the illustrative example, the first user can attach a preference value to each choice of the list of choices. The transceiver 202 sends the query to the electronic device 104, the electronic device 106 and the electronic device 108. After receiving the query, the query is displayed at the query block 702 of the graphical user interface 700 of the electronic devices 104, 106 and 108 to display the query to their respective users. The electronic device 102 can also display the query to the first user after sending the query. The graphical user interface 700 further displays the list of choices in the list block 704. In an illustrative arrangement, choices contained in the list are arranged according to the preference value associated with the choices in the list.
[0046] In another arrangement, the graphical user interface 700 includes the value block 706 that displays the preference value attached with each choice of the list. In another arrangement the value block 706 displays the number of users, who have opted for a choice contained in the list. In this arrangement, the value block 706 gets updated dynamically after a user, participating in voting, cast his/her vote. For one embodiment of the present invention, the graphical user interface 700 includes the abstain block 708 that allows a user to abstain from voting. For example, if the second user wishes to abstain from responding, then he/she can choose the abstain block 708, then the electronic device 104 sends an abstinence response to the electronic device 102, conveying that though the second user is interested in result of the social voting but will not participate. In this case, the electronic device 102 sends the update messages to the electronic device 104 that indicates the responses of all the users and, also, thus result of the social voting.
[0047] For one embodiment of the present invention, the graphical user interface 700 includes the delegate block 710 that would allow a user to delegate the query to a delegating-to electronic device to whom the user wish to delegate the query. For example, the second user delegates the query to the third user (John). The electronic device 104 sends a delegation response to the electronic device 102. After receiving the delegation response, the electronic device 102 formulates an update message to inform the electronic device 106 that the electronic device 104 has delegated the query. The electronic device 102 sends the update message to the electronic device 106. The electronic device 106 after receiving the update message informs the third user (John) that the second user has delegated the query to him/her.
[0048] For another embodiment, the electronic device 102 sends the query, if the delegated-to electronic device has not received the query. For another embodiment, the electronic device 104 can directly delegate the query to the delegated-to electronic device and inform the electronic device 102 about the delegation.
[0049] Though the implementation of the present invention is shown with respect to the graphical user interface 700, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other user interface can also be designed to achieve same functionality.
[0050] Various embodiments of the present invention offer one or more advantages. The present invention enables a user of an electronic device to make modification in a message that has been sent to another user. Further, the present invention can ameliorate the process of social voting by providing them options to abstain or delegate as discussed above. Further, the present invention reduces the effort of a user to provide new learning by just amending the sent message.
[0051] It will be appreciated that the method of dynamic modification of messages, described herein, may comprise one or more conventional processors and unique stored program instructions that control the one or more processors, to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processor circuits, some, most, or all of the functions of the system described herein. The non-processor circuits may include, but are not limited to, signal drivers, clock circuits, power-source circuits, and user- input devices. As such, these functions may be interpreted as steps of a method of dynamic modification of messages. Alternatively, some or all the functions can be implemented by a state machine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), in which each function, or some combinations of certain of the functions, are implemented as custom logic. Of course, a combination of the two approaches can also be used. Thus, methods and means for these functions have been described herein.
[0052] It is expected that one with ordinary skill, notwithstanding possibly significant effort and many design choices motivated by, for example, available time, current technology and economic considerations, when guided by the concepts and principles disclosed herein, will be readily capable of generating such software instructions, programs and ICs with minimal experimentation.
[0053] In the foregoing specification, the invention and its benefits and advantages have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, one with ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that various modifications and changes can be made, without departing from the scope of the present invention, as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and the figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required or essential features or elements of any or all the claims. The invention is defined solely by the appended claims, including any amendments made during the pendency of this application, and all equivalents of those claims, as issued.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A method for dynamic modification of a query in a network, the method at a questioning electronic device in the network comprising: sending the query to one or more electronic devices; formulating an update message, wherein the update message facilitates a modification of the query at at least one electronic device of the one or more electronic devices; and sending the update message to the at least one electronic device.
2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the query comprises one or more questions and at least one of: one or more suggested answers for each of the one or more questions; and one or more trust requirement values corresponding to the one or more questions.
3. The method as recited in claim 2, wherein formulating the update message comprises incorporating instructions to alter at least one of the one or more questions, the one or more suggested answers, and at least one of the one or more trust requirement values.
4. The method as recited in claim 2, wherein each of the one or more suggested answers is associated with a preference value.
5. The method as recited in claim 4, wherein formulating the update message comprises incorporating instructions to alter the preference value.
6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein formulating the update message comprises incorporating instructions to alter the query based on a response, wherein the response is received from a responding electronic device of the one or more electronic devices.
7. The method as recited in claim 6, wherein formulating the update message comprises incorporating instructions to provide an identity of the responding electronic device.
8. The method as recited in claim 6, wherein formulating the update message further comprises incorporating instructions to inform a delegated-to electronic device of the one or more electronic devices based on the response, wherein the response indicates delegating of the query to the delegated-to electronic device.
9. The method as recited in claim 6 further comprising sending the query to a delegated-to electronic device based on the response, wherein the response indicates delegating the query to the delegated-to electronic device, and wherein the delegated- to electronic device is currently not a part of the one or more electronic devices.
10. An electronic device comprising: a transceiver configured to exchange a message with one or more electronic devices present in a network; and a processor configured to formulate an update message, wherein the update message facilitates modification of the message.
PCT/US2007/083599 2007-01-15 2007-11-05 Method and system for dynamic modification of messages in networks WO2008088606A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IN93DE2007 2007-01-15
IN93/DEL/2007 2007-01-15

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WO2008088606A1 true WO2008088606A1 (en) 2008-07-24

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