Systems And Methods For Multi-Media Aggregator & Information Hub

Systems and methods for aggregating multi-media sources and streamlining delivery of political information are provided herein. In one aspect of this disclosure, a method for aggregating multi-media sources and streamlining delivery of political information includes receiving, at an input of a news server, a request from a client coupled to the news server, the request relating to at least one function or operation of a multi-media aggregator and information hub system. At least one action may be taken or performed in response to the client request. For example, the at least one action may include one or more of sending a page containing a news client interface from the news server to the client in response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for latest political news.

FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for aggregating multi-media sources and delivery of political information, for example elected officials and local political party committees.

BACKGROUND

In recent years the general public has become more interested in following political news stories and desires to be more politically active. Unfortunately, the general public lacks the knowledge to keep informed about political news. They also commonly don't know the names of their elected officials and don't know how to reach out to their local party committees.

The many news organizations' websites, online political talk shows, web-based political broadcast shows, and current events podcast channels all play a part in disseminating political news. State election boards have a hand in informing the general public of their elected officials. And state-wide political party committees can help identify local county or town committees' contact information.

It can be bewildering and time consuming for the general public to track down the desired political information and to keep up with the political news.

SUMMARY

Described herein are systems and methods related to aggregating multi-media sources and delivery of political information over a computer network. More particularly, in one aspect of this disclosure, a system of aggregating multi-media sources and delivery of political information over a computer network includes a website for displaying political news stories, listening to political news stories, listening to online political talk shows, watching political broadcast shows, watching current events podcast channels, finding elected officials contact information, locating local political party committees, breaking news social media messages, leading voices social media messages, and politician's social media messages.

The system also includes a server that processes latest news requests, listen news requests, live media requests, watch podcast requests, elected officials requests, political party requests, breaking news requests, leading voices requests, and elected officials social media messages request. News stories meta-data, live media shows meta-data, podcasts meta-data, elected officials meta-data, and political party committees meta-data are stored on a database associated with the system.

A method of aggregating multi-media sources and delivery of political information is also provided. In one aspect, the method includes receiving, at an input of a news server, a request from a client coupled to the news server, the request relating to at least one function or operation of a multi-media aggregator and delivery of political information system.

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for latest news, a page containing a news client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the news server may be searched for news stories meta-data, and the news stories meta-data may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the news stories meta-data is provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for listen news, a page containing a listen client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the news server may be searched for news stories meta-data, and the news stories meta-data may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the news stories meta-data is provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

In some embodiments, in response to receiving the news stories meta-data, the news story headlines are prepared for playback. The news story headlines will be processed for abbreviation expansion and the news story headlines will be processed to have specific words transpose so the words can be pronounced by the synthesis voice better, as described further below.

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for live media program guide, a page containing a live media client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the news server may be searched for live media shows meta-data, and the live media shows meta-data may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the live media shows meta-data is provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

In some embodiments, the live client interface provides the ability to switch the day focus of the live media program guide being displayed, as described further below.

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request to watch podcasts, a page containing a podcast client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the news server may be searched for podcast meta-data, and the podcast meta-data may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the podcast meta-data is provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for elected officials, a page containing an officials client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the news server may be searched for elected officials meta-data, and the elected officials meta-data may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the elected officials meta-data is provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

In some embodiments, the officials client interface provides the ability to switch the state and political branch focus of the elected officials being displayed, as described further below.

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for political party, a page containing a party client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the news server may be searched for political party committees meta-data, and the political party committees meta-data may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the political party committees meta-data is provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

In some embodiments, the party client interface provides the ability to switch the state and county/town focus of the political party committees being displayed, as described further below.

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for breaking news, a page containing a breaking client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the social media server may be searched for breaking news messages corresponding to the multi-media aggregator and delivery system account, and the messages may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the messages are provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

In response to the request from the client corresponding to a request for leading voices, a page containing a leading client interface may be sent from the news server to the client. A memory device (or memory devices) associated with the social media server may be searched for leading voices messages corresponding to the multi-media aggregator and delivery system account, and the messages may be provided to the client. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the messages are provided on one or more image and text files on the memory device(s).

It will be appreciated that the systems and methods disclosed herein simplify the process of following political news stories, staying political informed, and getting more politically active. For example, trying to find a political talk radio show to listen to, and with the systems and methods disclosed herein the process of seeing the available shows time information associated these shows may occur more efficiently and effectively, as will be become further apparent from discussions below.

While the systems and methods disclosed herein are often discussed with reference to political information, it is understood that the disclosed systems and methods may also be utilized in other applications. For example, it is contemplated that the disclosed systems and methods may also be applied to other information needs. For example, financial or cooking information, it may be helpful for people to be able to easily find the contents from multiple sources that they are interested in. The information may be from websites, podcasts, live talk shows, live broadcast show or a combination thereof.

Additional advantages and example uses of the present invention will become further apparent from discussions below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring toFIG.1, an example multi-media aggregator and information hub system100according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. As illustrated inFIG.1, the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100includes a news server103and a client109, all of which are coupled to a network112. The news server103, which may manage news sites URL list, news stories, podcasts, live media steaming channels, elected officials, and local political party committees, for example, may include, a computer system or other apparatus with similar capability. In particular, the news server103may include a processor circuit with a processor113and a memory116, both of which are coupled to a local interface119. The local interface119may include, for example, a data bus with an accompanying control/address bus, as is generally known by those with ordinary skill in the art.

Various peripheral devices may be coupled to the local interface119. In particular, peripheral devices may include, for example, a keyboard, keypad, touch pad, touch screen, microphone, scanner, mouse, joystick, or one or more push buttons, etc. The peripheral devices may also include display devices, indicator lights, speakers, etc. Specific display devices may be, for example, cathode ray tubes (CRTs), liquid crystal display screens, gas plasma-based flat panel display, or other types of display devices, etc. For example, the news server103may have a printer120attached thereto via the local interface119.

The client109may also include a computer system or other system with similar capability. For example, the client109may include a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a handheld computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, and/or the like. The client109includes a processor circuit with a processor133and a memory136, both of which are coupled to a local interface139. The local interface139may be a data bus with an accompanying control/address bus. The client109also includes various output interfaces143and input interfaces146(referred to as devices inFIG.1), through which the client109may be connected to various peripheral devices. Such peripheral devices may include a display device149, a printer153, a keyboard156, and a mouse159. Other peripheral devices that may be employed by the client109to receive various user input and/or to provide user output, include those listed above with regard to the news server103.

In addition, each of the processors113and133may represent multiple processors and each of the memories116and136may represent multiple memories that operate in parallel. In such a case, the local interfaces119and139may be appropriate networks that facilitate communication between any of the multiple processors, between any processor and any one of the memories, or between any two of the memories etc. The processors113and133may be electrical or optical in nature.

The network112includes, for example, the Internet, intranets, wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), wireless networks, or other suitable networks, etc., or any combination of such networks. The news server103and the client109may be coupled to the network112in one of the any number of ways known by those with ordinary skill in the art so as to facilitate data communication to and from the network112. In this respect, the news server103and the client109may be linked to the network112through various devices such as, for example, network cards, modems, or other such communications devices, etc.

The news server103includes various software components that are stored on the memory116and are executable by the processor113. These components include an operating system163and server logic169. The server logic169may include a network server, may include one or more scanning/monitoring scripts170, and may include one or more pages173(e.g., HyperText Markup Language (HTML) web pages). In addition, the server logic169may include image files179including, for example, information associated with live media steaming channels, elected officials, and local political party committees. The information associated may include, for example, static images, interactive images (i.e., a video sequence of images), and/or other relevant data to the live media steaming channels, elected officials, and local political party committees. In one aspect of this disclosure, the image files179take the form of PNG files. However, it is understood that other forms of image files179are of course possible. Within the pages173are user interfaces including news interface180, listen interface181, live media interface182, podcast interface183, officials interface184, party interface185, breaking interface186, leading interface187, and elected interface188that may be used in a multi-media aggregator and information hub process executed using the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, as discussed further below in connection withFIG.2a-2i.

In one aspect of this disclosure, the scripts170are JavaScript program files. However, it is understood that other program language files are of course possible. Within the scripts170are program files including program files to scan/monitor the political network sites pointer to by the URLs on the URL list171maintained by the news server103. The sites are scan/monitor by executing scripts170for new news stories, new podcasts, or changes to live media steaming channels very 30 minutes. Of course, other scripts execution frequencies or schedules are possible. Results from scanning/monitoring may include any new news stories meta-data being stored in news stories178, any new podcasts meta-data being stored in podcasts176, and any changes to live media steaming channels meta-data being stored in live media177.

The client109also includes software components that are stored on the memory136and are executable by the processor133. These components include an operating system203and a network browser206. By manipulating the browser206, the pages173may be downloaded from the news server103, having been transmitted by the server logic169, which is stored on the memory116of the news server103. Thus, the browser206and the server logic169may operate, for example, according to the dictates of the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) employed on the World Wide Web or other suitable protocol. In this sense, the pages173may be created using a markup language, such as hypertext markup language (HTML), as is generally known by those with ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, other programming languages or formats may be employed to create the pages173, including extensible markup language (XML) or another mark-up language, JAVA, Active Server Page Scripting (ASP), JAVASCRIPT, C++, or other suitable computer languages and/or formats. It will also be appreciated that that the pages173may include other types of pages and/or data files. The memory136also may include image files212.

The operating systems163and203are executed to control the allocation and usage of hardware resources, such as the memory, processing time and peripheral devices, in the news server103and the client109, respectively. In this manner, the operating systems163and203serve as the foundation on which applications depend as is generally known by those with ordinary skill in the art.

Referring toFIGS.2a-2i, several flowcharts are shown to illustrate example functionality/operations of a multi-media aggregator and information hub system (e.g.,100, shown inFIG.1) in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. More particularly, the flowcharts illustrate example functionality/operations of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system for several examples types of clients (e.g., news, podcasts, live media steaming channels, elected officials, and local political party committees clients) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. Processing blocks and decision blocks may be provided in the flowcharts. The processing blocks represent computer software and/or algorithm instructions or groups of instructions. Additionally, the decision blocks represent computer software and/or algorithm instructions, or groups of instructions, which affect the execution of the computer software and/or algorithm instructions represented by the processing blocks. The processing blocks and decision blocks (and other blocks shown) can represent steps performed by functionally equivalent circuits such as a digital signal processor circuit or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

The flowcharts do not depict the syntax of any particular programming language. Rather, the flowcharts illustrate the functional information one of ordinary skill in the art requires to fabricate circuits or to generate computer software to perform the processing required of the particular apparatus. It should be noted that many routine program elements, such as initialization of loops and variables and the use of temporary variables are not shown. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that unless otherwise indicated herein, the particular sequence of blocks described is illustrative only and can be varied. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the blocks described below are unordered; meaning that, when possible, the blocks can be performed in any convenient or desirable order including that sequential blocks can be performed simultaneously and vice versa. It will also be understood that various features from the flowcharts described below may be combined in some embodiments. Thus, unless otherwise stated, some features from the flowcharts described below may be combined with other features of the flowcharts described below, for example, to capture the various advantages and aspects of systems and methods associated with multi-media aggregator and information hub sought to be protected by this disclosure. It is also understood that various features from the flowcharts described below may be separated in some embodiments. For example, while the flowcharts are shown having many blocks, in some embodiments the illustrated method shown by these flowcharts may include fewer blocks or steps.

With reference now toFIG.2a, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2amay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a news client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a news interface180of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The news interface180may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2a, the method begins at block303, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve news stories178from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of news stories.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block306, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of news stories, a request is sent to the news server103for the news interface180.

In block309, when the news server103receives the news request from the client109, the news server103will search for news stories178and matching metadata to populate the news interface180returned to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

It will be appreciated that the news interface180, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.4, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2b, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2bmay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a listen client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a listen interface181of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The listen interface181may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2b, the method begins at block313, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to listen to retrieve news stories178from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of news stories.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block316, once the user of the client109has started the listening to retrieval of news stories, a request is sent to the news server103for the listen interface180.

In block317, when the news server103receives the listen request from the client109, the news server103will search for news stories178and matching metadata to populate the listen interface181returned to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

In block318, the news stories178used to populate the listen interface181and returned to client109are prepared for playback. First, the news story headlines will be processed for abbreviation expansion (for example: “Rep” to “Representative”). Second, the news story headlines will be processed to have specific words transpose (for example: “coronavirus” as “corona virus”, and “#” as “hash tag”) so the words can be pronounced by the synthesis voice better.

In addition, the news story headlines will be re-written before being presented to the voice synthesizer. The news story headline re-writing process randomly select a re-write rule from a set of re-write rules. The re-write rule has the following form:

Nil <headline>, a story by <source>

In block319, the user of the client109can control how the news stories being displayed on a display149of the client109are playback. The user of the client109can control the starting and pausing of the playback and selecting the synthesis voice, voice pitch, and voice speed to use during playback.

It will be appreciated that the listen interface181, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.5, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2c, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2cmay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a live media client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a live media interface182of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The live media interface182may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2c, the method begins at block323, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve live media data177from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of live media data.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block326, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of live media data, a request is sent to the news server103for the live media interface182.

In block329, when the news server103receives the live media request from the client109, the news server103will search for live media data177to populate the live media interface182returned to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

It will be appreciated that the live media interface182, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.6, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2d, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2dmay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a podcast client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a podcast interface183of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The podcast interface183may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2d, the method begins at block333, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve podcasts176from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of podcasts.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block336, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of podcasts, a request is sent to the news server103for the podcast interface183.

In block339, when the news server103receives the podcast request from the client109, the news server103will search for podcasts176and matching metadata to populate the podcast interface183returned to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

It will be appreciated that the podcast interface183, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.7, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2e, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2emay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a officials client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a officials interface184of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The officials interface184may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2e, the method begins at block343, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve elected officials172from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of elected officials.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block346, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of elected officials, a request is sent to the news server103for the officials interface184.

In block348, when the news server103receives the elected officials request from the client109, the news server103will search for elected officials172and matching metadata to populate the officials interface184returned to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

In block349, the user of the client109can switch the state and political branch (congress, senate, state leadership) focus of the elected officials being displayed on a display149of the client109.

It will be appreciated that the officials interface184, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.8, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2f, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2fmay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a officials client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a officials interface184of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The officials interface184may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2f, the method begins at block353, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve party committee174from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of elected officials.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block356, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of party committee, a request is sent to the news server103for the party interface185.

In block358, when the news server103receives the party committee request from the client109, the news server103will search for party committee174and matching metadata to populate the party interface185returned to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

In block359, the user of the client109can switch the level (national, state, country, town, district, precinct) focus of the party committee being displayed on a display149of the client109.

It will be appreciated that the party interface185, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.9, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2g, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2gmay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a breaking client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a breaking interface186of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The breaking interface186may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2g, the method begins at block363, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve breaking news social media messages (for example Tweets posted on Twitter) from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of social media messages.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block366, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of social media messages, a request is sent to the news server103for the breaking interface186.

In block369, when the news server103receives the social media messages request from the client109, the news server103will populate the breaking interface186with a script that will retrieve the breaking news social media messages from the social media platform and return it to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

It will be appreciated that the breaking interface186, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.10, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2h, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2hmay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for a leading client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a leading interface187of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The leading interface187may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2h, the method begins at block373, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve leading voices social media messages (for example Tweets posted on Twitter) from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of social media messages.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block376, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of social media messages, a request is sent to the news server103for the leading interface187.

In block379, when the news server103receives the social media messages request from the client109, the news server103will populate the leading interface187with a script that will retrieve the leading voices social media messages from the social media platform and return it to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

It will be appreciated that the leading interface187, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.11, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

With reference now toFIG.2i, a high-level flowchart is shown, illustrating example, functionality (e.g. logical functions) of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. More particularly, in one example implementation, the flowchart ofFIG.2imay represent example method steps taken in operation of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100, for example, for an elected client of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The method steps may include steps taken both in the news server103, and in downloading (from the news server103to the client109) and operation of a elected interface188of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. The elected interface188may be displayed on a display149of the client109to allow a user of the client109to view and interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub process.

As illustrated inFIG.2i, the method begins at block383, where a page173containing an initial interface175is sent from the news server103to the client109in response to a request from the client109to interact with the multi-media aggregator and information hub system. In accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, the request is sent from the client109to the news server103.

In one example implementation, the initial interface175is configured to allow the user of the client109to retrieve elected officials social media messages (for example Tweets posted on Twitter) from the news server103. The initial interface175allows the user of the client109to utilize input devices such as the keyboard156and the mouse159to start the retrieval of social media messages.

It is understood that other types of input devices besides a keyboard and a mouse may additionally or alternatively be used to interact multi-media aggregator and information hub system100. For example, in accordance with some embodiments of this disclosure, a microphone and/or an image capture device may additionally or alternatively be used.

In block386, once the user of the client109has started the retrieval of social media messages, a request is sent to the news server103for the elected interface188.

In block389, when the news server103receives the social media messages request from the client109, the news server103will populate the elected interface188with a script that will retrieve the elected officials social media messages from the social media platform and return it to client109to be displayed on a display149of the client.

It will be appreciated that the elected interface188, one example of which is shown and discussed further in connection withFIG.12, for example, may involve multiple pages173and/or may involve multiple hierarchical levels of menus, and may involve separate confirmation operations.

Referring now toFIGS.3-12, shown are example interfaces in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. As will be appreciated from discussions below, the illustrated interfaces are but a few of many potential interfaces that may be used in connection with multi-media aggregator and information hub system (e.g.,100, shown inFIG.1) and methods in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. As will also be appreciated from discussions below, the various features and elements of the interfaces, including the layouts and configurations of the interfaces, are illustrative only and may be changed, for example, depending on the application.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the initial interface175includes a GUI403having a main navigation bar409, social media navigation bar408, information panel405, and social media panel407.

The main navigation bar409may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the secondary interfaces (news180, listen181, live media182, podcast183, officials184, party185) by clicking on appropriate anchor text (Latest News, Listen News, Watch Podcasts, Elected Officials, Political Party).

The social media navigation bar408may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the secondary interfaces (breaking186, leading187, elected188) by clicking on appropriate anchor text (Breaking News, Leading Voices, Elected Officials).

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the initial interface175shown inFIG.3and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the initial interface175is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.4, the news interface180includes a GUI403having a navigation bar409and information panel405.

The navigation bar409may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the news interface180by clicking on Latest News anchor text. When the Latest News anchor text is actuated, the Latest News anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the news interface180is being displayed.

The news stories178retrieved from the news server103may be display as elements511within the information panel405having a news story related image thumbnail513, line515displaying an indicator indicting the news story is being seen by the user of the client for the first time, line518displaying the news story headline as anchor text, and line519displaying the news story published date, published time, and the source of the news story. It will be appreciated that other news story meta data and news story details may be included in element511.

The news story related image thumbnail513may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the news story from the news source.

Similar to the image thumbnail513, the news story headline anchor text518may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the news story from the news source. When the news story headline anchor text is actuated, the news story headline anchor text will be “grayed out” to indicate the news story was read by user of the client.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the news interface180shown inFIG.4and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the news interface180is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the listen interface181includes a GUI403having a navigation bar409and information panel405.

The navigation bar409may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the listen interface181by clicking on Listen News anchor text. When the Listen News anchor text is actuated, the Listen News anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the listen interface181is being displayed.

The news stories178retrieved from the news server103may be display as element611within the information panel405having a news story related image thumbnail613, line618displaying the news story headline as anchor text, and line619displaying the news story published date, published time, and the source of the news story. It will be appreciated that other news story meta data and news story details may be included in element611.

The news story related image thumbnail613may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the news story from the news source. The actuation will also cause the playback (audio output) to stop.

Similar to the image thumbnail613, the news story headline anchor text618may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the news story from the news source. The actuation will also cause the playback (audio output) to stop.

The information panel405may be configured with line622displaying the Back, Play/Pause, and Forward buttons for controlling the playback (audio output) of the news story. The Play/Pause button of line622may be actuated to start the playback and may be actuated again to stop the playback. The Back button of line622may be actuated to display the previous news story on the list of news stories178retrieved from the news server103. The Forward button of line622may be actuated to display the next news story on the list of news stories178retrieved from the news server103.

The information panel405may be configured with line630displaying a voice preference pull-down menu. The voice preference pull-down menu may be actuated to allow the user of the client to select a synthesis voice to be used during playback (audio output).

The information panel405may be configured with line631displaying a voice pitch slider. The voice pitch slider may be actuated to allow the user of the client to select the synthesis voice's pitch to be used during playback (audio output).

The information panel405may be configured with line632displaying a voice speed slider. The voice speed slider may be actuated to allow the user of the client to select the synthesis voice's speed to be used during playback (audio output).

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the listen interface181shown inFIG.5and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the listen interface181is described as having various anchor texts and sliders to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.6, live media interface182includes a GUI403having a navigation bar409and information panel405.

The navigation bar409may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the live media interface182by clicking on Live Media anchor text. When the Live Media anchor text is actuated, the Live Media anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the live media interface182is being displayed.

The information panel405may be configured with a secondary navigation bar709displaying the days of the week to allow the user of the client to actuate the live media program guide for a specific day of the week by clicking on a day of the week anchor text. When a day of the week anchor text is actuated, that day of the week anchor text will be highlighted to indicate that day of the week program guide is being displayed.

The live media177guide is retrieved from the news server103may be display as elements711within the information panel405having a time slot value713, show/broadcast images714, and show/broadcast steaming media channel name715below each show/broadcast image714.

The show/broadcast image714may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the live steam from the show/broadcast source.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the live media interface182shown inFIG.6and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the live media interface182is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.7, the podcast interface183includes a GUI403having a navigation bar409and information panel405.

The navigation bar409may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the podcast interface183by clicking on Watch Podcast anchor text. When the Watch Podcast anchor text is actuated, the Watch Podcast anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the podcast interface183is being displayed.

The podcasts176retrieved from the news server103may be display as elements811within the information panel405having a podcast related image thumbnail813with the podcast length superimposed on it, line815displaying an indicator indicting the podcast is being seen by the user of the client for the first time, line818displaying the podcast title as anchor text, and line819displaying the podcast published date, published time, and the source of the podcast. It will be appreciated that other podcast meta data and podcast details may be included in element511.

The podcast related image thumbnail813may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the podcast from the podcast source.

Similar to the image thumbnail811, the podcast title anchor text818may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the podcast from the podcast source. When the podcast title anchor text is actuated, the podcast title anchor text will be “grayed out” to indicate the podcast was watched by user of the client.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the podcast interface183shown inFIG.7and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the podcast interface183is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.8, officials interface184includes a GUI403having a navigation bar409and information panel405.

The navigation bar409may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the officials interface184by clicking on Elected Officials anchor text. When the Elected Officials anchor text is actuated, the Elected Officials anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the officials interface184is being displayed.

The information panel405may be configured with State pull-down menu906and Branch pull-down menu907. The user of the client may actuate the State pull-down menu906to switch focus (by state) of the elected officials being displayed. The user of the client may actuate the Branch pull-down menu907to switch focus (congress, senate, state leadership) of the elected officials being displayed.

The elected officials172data retrieved from the news server103may be display as elements911within the information panel405having an elected official's headshot image thumbnail913, line917displaying the elected official's name, line918displaying the political party and political district of the elected official, line919displaying the date the elected official was first elected and the date of the elected official's next election, line920displaying the elected official's phone number anchor text, line921displaying the elected official's website link, web link to a background profile of the elected official, and a web link to the voting record of the elected official, and line922displaying social media icons linking to elected official's social media accounts (for example eMail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube). It will be appreciated that other elected official meta data and elected official details may be included in element911.

The elected official's phone number anchor text920may be actuated to cause the browser206to dial the elected official's phone number if the client109such as a smart phone or a tablet supports direct dialing, or to start up an appropriate client109application program such as Skype, Line, or Zoom to initiate a VoIP (Voice over IP) call.

The elected official's website link on line921may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the elected official's website.

The elected official's profile link on line921may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the elected official's background profile from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress website or similar websites.

The elected official's votes link on line921may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the elected official's voting record as reported by the Center For Legislative Accountability website or similar websites.

The social media icons, eMail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, on line922may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the elected official's social media account web page.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the officials interface184shown inFIG.8and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the officials interface184is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.9, party interface185includes a GUI403having a navigation bar409and information panel405.

The navigation bar409may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the party interface185by clicking on Political Party anchor text. When the Political Party anchor text is actuated, the Political Party anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the party interface185is being displayed.

The information panel405may be configured with State pull-down menu1006and County pull-down menu1007. The user of the client may actuate the State pull-down menu1006to switch focus (by state) of the party committee data being displayed. The user of the client may actuate the County pull-down menu1007to switch focus (by state county) of the party committee data being displayed.

The party committee174data retrieved from the news server103may be display as elements1011within the information panel405having an party committee chairman headshot image thumbnail or state/county/town map1013, line1018displaying the party committee's name, line1019displaying the party committee's chairman name, line1020displaying the party committee's phone number anchor text, line1021displaying the party committee's website link, and line1022displaying social media icons linking to party committee's social media accounts (for example eMail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube). It will be appreciated that other party committee meta data and party committee details may be included in element1011.

The party committee's phone number anchor text1020may be actuated to cause the browser206to dial the party committee's phone number if the client109such as a smart phone or a tablet supports direct dialing, or to start up an appropriate client109application program such as Skype, Line, or Zoom to initiate a VoIP (Voice over IP) call.

The party committee's website link on line1021may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the party committee's website.

The social media icons, eMail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, on line1022may be actuated to cause the browser206to open a new browser window. This new browser window will be loaded with the party committee's social media account web page.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the party interface185shown inFIG.9and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the party interface185is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.10, breaking interface186includes a GUI403having a navigation bar408and social media panel407.

The navigation bar407may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the breaking interface186by clicking on Breaking News anchor text. When the Breaking News anchor text is actuated, the Breaking News anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the breaking interface186is being displayed.

The multi-media aggregator and information hub system will maintain social media accounts. Messages posted to those accounts are considered to be Breaking News.

The social media panel407may be configured with line1105displaying the title of social media messages being display.

Breaking social media messages retrieved from the social media server may be display as elements1106within the social media panel407having a social media user photo image1107, line1108displaying social media user's account name, social media user's account ID, and message timestamp, line1109displaying the text of the social media message, and line1110displaying an optional image of the social media message. It will be appreciated that other social media message meta data and social media message details may be included in element1106.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the breaking interface186shown inFIG.10and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the breaking interface186is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.11, leading interface187includes a GUI403having a navigation bar408and social media panel407.

The navigation bar408may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the leading interface187by clicking on Leading Voices anchor text. When the Leading Voices anchor text is actuated, the Leading Voices anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the leading interface187is being displayed.

The multi-media aggregator and information hub system will maintain social media accounts tracking social media messages posted by influential political observers. The administrator of the multi-media aggregator and information hub system will determine who is consider an influential political observer. Messages posted to those accounts are considered to be Leading Voices.

The social media panel407may be configured with line1205displaying the title of social media messages being display.

Leading social media messages retrieved from the social media server may be display as elements1206within the social media panel407having a social media user photo image1207, line1208displaying social media user's account name, social media user's account ID, and message timestamp, line1209displaying the text of the social media message, and line1210displaying an optional image of the social media message. It will be appreciated that other social media message meta data and social media message details may be included in element1206.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the leading interface187shown inFIG.11and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the leading interface187is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

As illustrated inFIG.12, elected interface188includes a GUI403having a navigation bar408and social media panel407.

The navigation bar408may be configured to allow the user of the client to actuate the elected interface188by clicking on Elected Officials anchor text. When the Elected Officials anchor text is actuated, the Elected Officials anchor text will be highlighted to indicate the elected interface188is being displayed.

The multi-media aggregator and information hub system will maintain social media accounts tracking social media messages posted by elected officials. Messages posted to those accounts are considered to be elected officials social media messages.

The social media panel407may be configured with line1305displaying the title of social media messages being display.

Elected officials social media messages retrieved from the social media server may be display as elements1306within the social media panel407having a social media user photo image1307, line1308displaying social media user's account name, social media user's account ID, and message timestamp, line1309displaying the text of the social media message, and line1310displaying an optional image of the social media message. It will be appreciated that other social media message meta data and social media message details may be included in element1306.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment of the elected interface188shown inFIG.12and described above is only an example of the range of possible GUI interfaces that may suitably be employed. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the elected interface188is described as having various anchor texts to perform a variety of functions, other means of performing the functions are of course possible. For example, images, check boxes, text fields (e.g., to enter “done” or “finish”), and buttons may be used to perform these functions and other contemplated functions.

It will be appreciated that the systems and methods described above may be varied in a variety of suitable ways. For example, the systems and methods described above have been described in terms of managing political information and stories. However, it will be appreciated that the system and method may be utilized in managing other sorts of related information.

Accordingly, it is submitted that that scope of the patent should not be limited to the described embodiments but rather should be limited only by the spirit and scope of the following claims.