System and method of advertising a plurality of varied multimedia content

The present invention relates generally to a system and method of providing for the displaying of third-party multimedia advertising content and controlling the review of at least one multimedia content file using an interactive advertising application program configured for use on a mobile device. The application program is configured for scanning an encoded image framed by an interactive frame with at least one embedded hyperlink or icon within, which activates the at least one embedded hyperlink or icon, and upon activation, the at least one encoded image with an icon may be used for accessing and controlling the review of the at least one multimedia content file. However, prior to the displaying of the at least one multimedia content file, the third-party multimedia advertising content may be displayed, thereby allowing for a revenue generating for all third-party multimedia advertising content displayed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a system and method of providing for the displaying of third-party multimedia advertising content and controlling the review of at least one multimedia content file using an interactive advertising application program configured for use on a mobile device. The application program is configured for scanning an encoded image framed by an interactive frame with at least one embedded hyperlink or icon within, which activates the at least one embedded hyperlink or icon, and upon activation, the at least one encoded image with an icon may be used for accessing and controlling the review of the at least one multimedia content file. However, prior to displaying the at least one multimedia content file, the third-party multimedia advertising content may be displayed, thereby allowing for a revenue generation for all third-party multimedia advertising content displayed.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

In today's age where we are constantly bombarded with all types of advertisements, e.g. television commercials, radio advertisements, print advertisements in newspapers and magazines, online advertisements that reach your “Inbox” or appear as pop-ups and banners, text messages automatically sent to your mobile phone, we generally filter and most often disregard information received from multiple platforms as it creates cyber clutter. This holds true for all types of marketing, whether for restaurants, airline tickets, subscriptions, insurance and/or financial products. Thus there needs to be an efficient system and method for businesses to market and promote their products and promotions, etc., in a manner that will be well received and reviewed by the general public.

Additionally, in a high tech society where marketing relies heavily on visual presentations, business owners are constantly looking for ways to market their products and services in new and novel manner. This invention satisfies these long felt needs in a new and novel manner and solves the foregoing problems that the prior art has been unable to resolve.

For a further and more fully detailed understanding of the present invention, various objects and advantages thereof, reference is made to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Additional objectives of the present invention will appear as the description proceeds.

The foregoing and other objects and advantages will appear from the description to follow. In the description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which forms a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In the accompanying drawings, like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is best defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following discussion describes in detail an embodiment of the various methods as described below. However, this discussion should not be construed, as limiting the invention to those particular embodiments, as practitioners skilled in the art will appreciate that an apparatus and system may vary as to configuration and as to details of the parts, and that a method may vary as to the specific steps and sequence, without departing from the basic concepts as disclosed herein. Similarly, the elements described herein may be implemented separately, or in various combinations without departing from the teachings of the present invention. Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views.

Systems

FIG. 1is an exemplary system100according to one embodiment of the invention. System100comprises of: a mobile device102that includes a computer processor104in electronic communication with memory means106; computer executable instructions108readable and executable by the computer processor104and configured for performing any one or more of the following: launching an interactive advertising application program (“interactive advertising app”)110configured for displaying third-party multimedia advertising content111and controlling the review of at least one multimedia content file112linked to at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116that includes at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124which includes at least one or a plurality of embedded hyperlink(s)126or icon(s)128within, where upon activation of the at least one embedded hyperlink126or icon128, the hyperlink126or icon128may be engaged for accessing and controlling the review of the multimedia content file112by overlaying the at least one encoded image114with the at least one embedded icon128which has an associated control command130for performing the control function; the mobile device's image capturing means132(e.g. a camera of the like and kind that are well known and used in the arts for mobile phones102) for scanning the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116causing the at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124to be activated; memory means106for storing a captured at least one encoded image114that may be retrieved for user interaction; communication means134for retrieving the third-party multimedia advertising content111and the at least one multimedia content file112that is linked to at least one encoded image114framed by the interactive frame116; and displaying means136for publishing the third-party multimedia advertising content111upon the scanning of the at least one encoded image14within the interactive frame116for which revenue may be derived for the publication of the third-party multimedia advertising content file111that is linked to the multimedia content file112. In some embodiments, the third-party multimedia advertising content111is published first as a preview prior to the publication of the multimedia content file112. In some embodiments, the publication of the third-party multimedia advertising content111is interspersed with the publication of the multimedia content file112.

Third-party multimedia advertising content111and multimedia content file112as used herein may include any one or a combination of the following: videos, promotions, coupons, coupon codes, bar codes, discounts, pricing, availability, store locations, directions, television commercials, radio advertisements, print advertisements, movies, and movie trailers and the like. In some embodiments, the third-party multimedia advertising content111differs (in content, subject matter and source) from and may be wholly unrelated to, or tangentially related to the at least one multimedia content file112linked to at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116. For example, the at least one encoded image114may be related to, for example, an educational topic on “keeping the eco system for marine life viable,” while the third-party multimedia advertising content111may comprise a promotion for fishing supplies. In this manner, revenue can be derived for the scanning of the at least one encoded image114and/or the displaying of the third-party multimedia advertising content111linked to the at least one multimedia content file112, which may be programmed to play each time the at least one multimedia content file112is accessed post scanning by user.

Mobile device102may be any type of electronic computerized communication device configured with means for communicating wirelessly and/or wired with other mobile devices102′,102″, such as but not limited to, cellular phones (e.g., an iPhone, Android, Palm, Blackberry, or any “smart phone” as are generally known and used in the arts), location-aware portable phones (such as GPS), a personal computer, server computer, or laptop or netbook computer, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”) such as a Palm-based device or Windows CE device, a laptop computer, a tablet personal computer, a portable screen, a portable processing device and/or any other portable device capable of communicating wirelessly over a computer network, local area network138, wide area network such as the Internet138, or any other type of network device that may communicate over a network138. Computer140as used herein includes but is not limited to a network enabled computer, cellular phones102, a laptop or personal digital assistant subject to wired/wireless connectivity, and configured with a computer processor104.

Mobile device102may include various hardware components, e.g. at least one or more computer central processor104, memory means106, and one or more communication means134. Computer central processor104may be any type of processor, such as, but not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a video processor, a front end processor, a coprocessor, a single-core central processor, a multi-core processor, and the like. Central processor104may be programmed to activate the interactive advertising app110running in background while the mobile device102is powered on, for viewing third-party multimedia advertising content111and multimedia content files112,112′, which will be displayed on the mobile device's displaying means136in, for example, a graphical, audio, and/or text format or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the interactive advertising app110may have its own icon128′ or other visual indicator displayed thereon for launching or providing access to the interactive advertising app110. When a user selects the respective interactive advertising app's icon128′ (e.g. by touching a touchscreen, or selecting it using a pointing device, roller ball, arrow keys, or other controller), where upon selection, the computer central processor104, launches the interactive advertising app110and the computer central processor104, which is electronically connected to the displaying means136, controls the displaying means136to display the interactive advertising app110as launched on the at least one mobile device's displaying means136.

Mobile device102may include at least one or more memory means106either electrically or mechanically connected to the at least one computer processor104. In the case of electronic connections, the electronic connections may be wired and/or wireless connections. Memory means106may comprise of a storage device and may include memory, such as, but is not limited to, read-only memory, such as CD-ROMs, DVDs, floppy disks, and the like, read and write memory, such as a hard drive, floppy disc, CD-RW, DVD-RW, solid state memory, such as solid state hard drives, flash memory, and the like, and random access memory. Memory means106may be used to store information, such as encoded images114,114′, hyperlinks126,126′, icons128,128′ linked to the encoded images114,114′, third-party multimedia advertising content111, registered multimedia content files112,112′ for the corresponding encoded images114,114′, company's website address or Uniform Resource Locators (URLs), control commands130,130′, interactive frames116,116′, electronic folders142,142′ for storing a plurality of captured encoded images114,114′, directions144and the like. Information stored on the mobile device's memory means106may be retrieved using the computer processor104and may be published by push notification on the mobile device's displaying means136or broadcasted over a speaker146using the type and configuration of speakers that are well known and used in the arts for mobile devices102,102′.

Mobile device102is equipped with communication means134, either electrically or mechanically connected to the computer central processor104. In the case of electronic connections, the electronic connections may be wired and/or wireless. In some embodiments, communication means134may be a wireless communication means134, which employ short range wireless protocol, such as, but not limited to, a radio frequency transceiver, a radio frequency receiver, and/or a radio frequency transmitter for communicating over the Internet138to access for example registered companies URLs and their corresponding third-party multimedia advertising content111and at least one or a more multimedia content files112,112′ linked to at least one encoded images114,114′ framed by interactive frames116,116′ that may be displayed on, for example, printed statements148,148′ or other electronic media (i.e. content requiring electronics for the user to access the content). Printed statement148as used herein includes but is not limited to: a business card, a menu, a program, a printed billboard advertisement, a printed article, magazine page, newspaper insert, and an advertising card. It is understood that each encoded image114is unique even if the multimedia advertisements112,112′ are not.

In embodiments where the wireless communication means134is a radio frequency receiver, the radio frequency receiver may be any type of radio frequency receiver, including, but not limited to, a positioning system receiver, such as a global positioning system receiver and a local positioning system receiver, such as a Wi-Fi positioning system receiver. In other embodiments, the communication means134may employ wireless protocols like Blue Tooth, ZigBee, 702.11 series, or a wireless modem, such as, but not limited to, a global system for mobile communications (GSM) modem, or any other short range wireless protocol that is well known and used in the arts and other future short range wireless protocol suitable for transmitting and receiving data. Communication means134are operative to transmit or receive electronic communications, i.e. electronic data, audio, videos, text, pictures, graphs and the like via a short range wireless protocol, such as, but not limited to, a radio frequency receiver, a radio frequency transmitter, or a radio frequency transceiver and to communicate over the Internet138.

Mobile device102includes a computer processor104, disposed within and in electronic communication with the memory means106. Computer processor104includes computer executable instructions108readable and executable by the at least one processor104. Computer executable instructions108are operative to perform all the necessary functions for the system100and methods disclosed herein, including but not limited to: automatically launching the interactive advertising app110, i.e. running a background service while the mobile device102is powered on, displaying third-party multimedia advertising content111and controlling the access and review of third-party multimedia advertising content111, at least one multimedia content file112linked to at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116that includes at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124which includes at least one or a plurality of embedded hyperlink(s)126or icon(s)128embedded within, and the like.

Computer executable instructions108may be loaded directly on the mobile device's processor104, or may be stored in mobile device's memory means106, that includes but is not limited to, computer readable media, such as, but not limited to, a hard drive, a solid state drive, a flash memory, random access memory, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, and the like. Computer executable instructions108may be any type of computer executable instructions108, which may be in the form of a computer program, the program being composed in any suitable programming language or source code, such as C++, C, JAVA, JavaScript, HTML, XML, and other programming languages. In some embodiments, computer executable instructions108may be stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium readable by processor104, wherein the non-transitory computer readable medium may comprise as computer memory, computer storage, and the like. The non-transitory computer readable medium may be part of the same device of which processor104is a part.

Interactive advertising app110, which may be stored in the mobile device's memory means106also comprises of computer executable instructions108′ readable and executable by the at least one processor104and is configured for performing any all the necessary functions for the system100and methods of the invention, which may include any one or more of the following: displaying third-party multimedia advertising content111; controlling the review of at least one multimedia content file112linked to at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116that includes at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124, which includes at least one or a plurality of embedded hyperlink(s)126or icon(s)128within, and configured for controlling the multimedia content file112corresponding to the at least one encoded image114when any one or more of the activated icons128,128′ are engaged by an input device when the activated icon128is dragged and released into the designated area150by overlaying the at least one encoded image114with the at least one embedded icon128, which has an associated control command130; activating the at least one or more embedded icons128,128′ and hyperlinks126,126′ when the at least one encoded image114within when the interactive frame116is scanned; displaying the at least one multimedia content file112for the captured at least one encoded image114pursuant to a control command130represented by the at least one embedded icon128; receiving at least one control command130for displaying the at least one multimedia content file112within the interactive frame114with full functionality for review and control when the multimedia content file112is published; wherein those control commands130for displaying the at least one multimedia content file112include but are not limited to any one or more of the following: play, stop, fast-forward, rewind, pause, maximize viewing, minimize, end and cancel; retrieving directions144′ related to the multimedia content file112for the captured at least one encoded image114; displaying the directions144,144′ as retrieved within the interactive frame116; retrieving the third-party multimedia advertising content111and/or the at least one multimedia content file112by linking to an advertiser's website via its web address; providing for product purchases related to the encoded image114; and storing a plurality of captured encoded images114,114′ within an electronic folder142with full functionality for managing stored electronic data as is customary in the arts.

In some embodiments of the present invention, each interactive activity icon128represents a distinct control command and review function. Each interactive activity icon128may be selected by a user using an input device (e.g. by touching a touchscreen, or selecting it using a pointing device, roller ball, arrow keys, or other controller), and “dragged” or moved into the designated area150in the encoded image114, which would activate the function associated with a particular interactive activity icon128. The activation area142is visually represented herein as the middle of the encoded image114, however there are no limitations placed on the location of the designated area150.

Mobile device102may include any kind of displaying means136, such as, but not limited to: a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) screen, a light emitting diode (“LED”) display, touchpad or touch screen display, and/or any other means known in the arts for emitting a visually perceptible output. Mobile device's processor104is in electronic communication with its displaying means136. In other embodiments, displaying means136is wirelessly connected to processor104. Displaying means136may include control means, such as, but not limited to, a touch screen, a stylus, and the like. In some embodiments, displaying means136may be electronically connected to a mobile device102according to the hardware and software protocols that are known and used in the arts. Computer central processor104controls the mobile device's displaying means136, which is configured for displaying the at least one or more encoded images114, third-party multimedia advertising content111, multimedia content files112,112′ and the like.

Mobile device102also includes software components that may be stored in the memory means106. Memory means106may include computer storage media, for example volatile memory, non-volatile memory, data storage devices, or the like. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transitory medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by mobile device102. Mobile device102may also contain an input element for inputting data and an output element for displaying data.

Also stored on the memory means106may be an operating system152, application manager154, and the interactive advertising app110. Interactive advertising app110may be an independent component or may be incorporated into the operating system152. Interactive advertising app110is a computer-executable component, readable and executable by the computer processor104, wherein the interactive advertising app110links to the Internet138to retrieve at least one or more third-party multimedia advertising content111and the multimedia content files112,112′ to be displayed on the mobile device's displaying means136or the printed statement148. The third-party multimedia advertising content111and the multimedia content files112,112′ may be in any format, e.g. audio, video, pictorial, text message, graph, and as such is published or also broadcasted in any format on the mobile device102.

Application manager154comprises of computer-executable components that operate on the mobile device102and may be implemented in a variety of ways. In one embodiment of the invention, application manager154may use one or more computer-executable components for interacting with interactive advertising app110. In another embodiment, interactive advertising app110is incorporated in application manager154to receive information from the input element, to communicate with, and/or to control the operations of interactive advertising app110.

Interactive advertising app110may comprise in part of a browser, such as for use on the mobile device102, or a similar browsing device. Interactive advertising app110may be any type of software application, such as a standalone application designed to run on a mobile platform, such as a mobile device running an operating system152, such as iOS™, Android™, Windows Mobile™, Blackberry™, and the like. Interactive advertising app110may be operative for an iPhone, any other “smart phone,” mobile device, cellular phone, PDA, GPS or any other mobile device102capable of handling electronic transactions dealing with dynamic content, object, application, or software. In some embodiments, the interactive advertising app110may be designed to run on a social network platform, such as FACEBOOK® or JUSTSYNC®. In some embodiments, interactive advertising app110may reside on a server computer and may be downloadable from the server computer or otherwise reside in the mobile device's local memory means106. For example, in one embodiment, the interactive advertising app110may be on a mobile device (such as an iPhone, Blackberry, or other “smart phone”) and the full-sized software program may be on a computer, where communications may occur over a network138or directly, either wired or wirelessly.

FIGS. 2A-2Cshow an exemplary system200of the invention according to one embodiment. As previously discussed, the interactive advertising app110may appear as one or more icons128,128′ on the mobile device's displaying means136that may be manually activated to launch the interactive advertising app110or different segments of the app110, while in some embodiments the interactive advertising app110is automatically launched as soon as the mobile device102is turned on, where the interactive advertising app110may run a background service while the mobile device102is powered on. In background mode, user may continue to use the mobile device102in its customary and ordinary use, e.g. make calls, create and respond to SMS text messages or use the mobile device102in any other manner deemed ordinary and customary use while the interactive advertising app110runs in the background.

In either embodiment, once the interactive advertising app110is launched, user may use the interactive advertising app110on the mobile device102to scan the at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116as displayed on a printed statement148or electronic media that includes at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124with at least one hyperlink126or icon128embedded within. The interactive advertising app110may include virtual radio buttons204,204′, e.g. “Scan Ad,” identifying the command130to be executed, i.e. scanning the encoded image114within the interactive frame116. As soon as the mobile device's image capturing means132, scans the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116it links over the network138to retrieve the third-party multimedia advertising content111, retrieves and publishes the third-party advertising content111and causes the at least one or more icons128,128′ to be activated for interactive display and control of the multimedia content file112using the respective commands130,130′ represented by the icons128,128′ to control the multimedia content file112by overlaying the encoded image114with at least one icon128, i.e. dragging the icon128to the designated area150. In scanning the encoded image114it activates embedded icons128,128′ and/or hyperlinks126,126′ that become visible in the hot corners118,120,122,124. The activated at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124may pulsate, blink or the icons128,128′ may be displayed in a color contrast or animated format to alert the user of the option to interact with the encoded image114by exploring one or more of the interactive control commands130,130′.

In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 2A, using a mobile device102a user may interact with the exemplary printed (non-electronic) billboard146by scanning the encoded image114, which has additional markings202,202′ that distinguishes it from the norm, such that it visually indicates to a casual observer that there is more to the encoded image114than the printed words and images. For users familiar with the systems100,200, and method, the markings202,202′ are familiar indicating that the advertisement is an encoded image114. For new users, the billboard's encoded image114invites the user to place his/her mobile device102on the encoded image114. In doing so, the computer executable instructions108executable by the computer processor104is configured for launching the interactive advertising app110that comprises of computer executable instructions108′, also executable by the mobile device's computer processing unit104, and scans the encoded image114. In some embodiments, the icons128,128′,128″,128′″ are hidden and are embedded within the encoded image114, i.e. not viewable until activated when the encoded image114is scanned by the image capturing means132.

Once the encoded image114has been scanned, the interactive application app110that comprises of computer executable instructions108readable and executable by the processor104issues an executable command to the processor104to activate the communication means134to link via an operative network138to, for example, access and retrieve one or more third-party multimedia advertising content111linked to the at least one or a more multimedia content files112,112′ that is linked to at least one encoded images114,114′ framed by interactive frames116,116′. The located third-party multimedia advertising content111when located is received by the system200for publication. In some embodiments, the one or more third-party multimedia advertising content111may be displayed prior to the displaying of the multimedia content files112,112′ as shown where the third-party multimedia advertising content111for “Cheap Airline Tickets” is wholly unrelated to the owner of the multimedia content file114, (“ABC Realty). In some embodiments, publication of the third-party multimedia advertising content111may be interspersed at anytime during the publishing of the multimedia content files112,112′ linked to at least one encoded images114,114′. This allows multimedia content files112,112′ owners or the administrator of the system to sell the rights for advertising fees to advertise third-party multimedia advertising content111to be displayed in conjunction with the publishing of the multimedia content files112,112′.

As shown inFIG. 2B, in the exemplary embodiment the third-party multimedia advertising content111has already been published and the user may now interact and control the reviewing of the multimedia content file112by overlaying the at least one encoded image114in the designated area150with at least one icon128representing a control command130for controlling the display and review of the multimedia content file112. The system and method disclosed herein requires registration of the interactive frame116and the owner or promoter (collectively referred to herein as “owner) that has corresponding multimedia content file112linked thereto, to support the interactive augmented reality frames116,116′, such that the encoded images114,114′ will be recognized by the interactive advertising app110and the corresponding multimedia content file112as well as the third-party multimedia advertising content111can be retrieved and published on user's mobile device's displaying means. It is understood that each encoded image114is unique, e.g. contains embedded random numbering such that the correct corresponding multimedia content file112and third-party multimedia advertising content111linked thereto are retrieved as no two encoded images114,114′ are alike.

In one embodiment, the advertiser registers with the systems100&200and method described herein, and the encoded images114,114′ are created for the advertiser and linked to the corresponding multimedia content file112,112. Thus, any user scanning the encoded image114may review the third-party multimedia advertising content111linked for publication with multimedia content files112as retrieved from the interactive advertising app's stored electronic data, which may comprise of memory means106′ utilizing an electronic database106′ connected to a remote server computer138that hosts and supports the interactive app110. Advertising time and space may be sold to interested parties for the opportunity to have their third-party multimedia advertising content111linked for publication with multimedia content files112,112′. The revenue model may vary as the system may allow the owners of the multimedia content files112,112′ to track usage and uploads or the system may track the statistical information and calculate the fees due.

In some embodiments, advertiser has a customized version of the interactive advertising app110, and advertiser may create its own encoded images114,114′ linked to corresponding multimedia content file112,112and the advertiser may have some decision in deciding which third-party multimedia content111will be linked and published in conjunction with the multimedia content file112. Notwithstanding the advertiser's control over newly created encoded images114,114′ with corresponding multimedia content file112,112′, each encoded image114with the interactive frame116is coded uniquely, e.g. containing embedded random numbering such that the correct corresponding multimedia content file112is retrieved so that no two encoded images114,114′ for two different advertisers are alike. A user scanning the encoded image114may review the corresponding multimedia content file112as retrieved from the interactive advertising app110's electronic database106′, or as linked to the advertiser's website to locate the stored multimedia content file112.

In some embodiments, the control command130may include storing the at least one encoded image114for later review. As such, after the image capturing means132captures the encoded image114, the app110may store the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116with the embedded hyperlink126or icon128within the mobile device's memory means106where it can be retained and stored for future use and retrieval even though the mobile device's image capturing means202may no longer be hovering over the encoded image114. For example, while travelling a user may be riding a bus, subway or travelling by car and briefly viewed the at least one encoded image114without having time to fully review the multimedia content file112associated with the same or connectivity is limited or unavailable for underground subways and therefore the encoded image114and the third-party multimedia advertising content111or the multimedia content112may not be viewable until connectivity is restored.

In some embodiments, the ability to fully capture the encoded image114is restricted because of the pixilation of the mobile device's image capturing means132. In that embodiment, an add-on autofocus lens may be attached to the mobile device's image capturing means132with more powerful lens, e.g. 12-30 megapixels such that the user can capture distant images, e.g. billboards146,146′, encoded images114,114′ regarding other public events and the like that may be posted in public areas, on fences, walls, etc.

Once captured, interactive advertising app110is configured for storing one and/or a plurality of captured encoded images114,114′ within an electronic folder142, e.g. titled “AD VAULT” for ease of reference but could easily have been titled anything else or customized according to the user's preferences. The encoded images114,114′ may be stored in the electronic folder142where the user may edit, add, delete, forward, save, play and use any other (editing) control commands130,130′ as are generally used in the arts for managing and/or administering stored electronic data. For example, user may later review the multimedia content file112for the encoded image114long after the user is no longer in the vicinity.

When the user is ready to review at least one multimedia content file112, the interactive advertising app110is configured for retrieving the stored at least one encoded image114. In some embodiments, the at least one multimedia content file112is retrievable from the mobile device's memory means106or by linking to an advertiser's website via its web address where it is retrieved and displayed on the mobile device's displaying means136if the interactive frame116is still listed as an active frame with the systems100,200. The multimedia content file112is controlled by the interactive advertising app110, which by its computer executable instructions108′ control the displaying of the third-party multimedia advertising content111and the at least one multimedia content file112with full functionality for review and control using control commands130,130′ which include but are not limited to any one or more of the following: play, stop, fast-forward, rewind, pause, maximize viewing, minimize, end and cancel. In some embodiments, the control commands130,130′ are fully displayed, e.g. “STORE AD” or “GET DIRECTIONS”. It is understood that the clickable icon128may be in any particular geometric shape or other configuration as it is representative of a control command130for controlling the multimedia content file112for the encoded image114.

In some embodiments, the interactive advertising app110is configured for capturing statistical information for the at least one encoded image114, the third-party multimedia advertising content111and/or the multimedia content file112being viewed and for providing reports based on captured statistical information. Statistical information may be used for example to determine the number of: uploads of the encoded image114, publishing of the third-party multimedia advertising content111and/or the multimedia content file112from which financial calculations can be made concerning the advertising fees due to the owner of the multimedia content file112for allowing the third-party multimedia content111to be displayed in conjunction with the owner's multimedia content file112, as well as designated fees for the system administrators for supporting the framework behind the systems and methods. In one revenue model, revenue is derived on a pay per scan of the encoded image114, while in other embodiments, revenue is derived on a pay per publishing schedule as each time the encoded image114(which may be stored and retrieved) is accessed for publication, the interactive advertising app110tracks the communications means134linking over the Internet138to retrieve the third-party advertising content and/or multimedia content file112.

The at least one multimedia content file112may be published in any one or more of the following formats: audio, video, pictorial, graphical or text format. Accordingly, advertisers target their messages for their products and services for the user's review as clearly only those persons that are interested in learning more about the product will bother to scan encoded images114,114′ from the printed statement148, activate the icons128and/or hyperlinks126for the encoded images114,114′.

As shown inFIG. 2C, the icon128for the control command130for displaying the multimedia content file112was selected causing the interactive advertising app110to display at least one or more multimedia content file112,112′ related to the encoded image114within the interactive frame116on the mobile device's displaying means136. The multimedia content file112may be displayed in audio, audiovisual, display or multimedia format within the interactive frame116. While the multimedia content file112is being displayed, the icons128,128′,128″,128′″ are still visible and accessible for controlling the multimedia content file112. Here, the exemplary multimedia content file112is a video for which the display may be further manipulated and/or controlled using the interactive advertising app′ radio button204,206′, e.g. play, rewind, fast forward, maximize, pause or stop the multimedia content file112being played. As such, the interactive advertising app110makes a determination of whether a corresponding multimedia content file112exists; conducts at least one electronic computerized search for the corresponding multimedia content file112linked to the encoded image114on the mobile device's memory means106or hyperlinks to the Internet138to obtain the multimedia content file112from, e.g. the advertiser's website; retrieves the at least one multimedia content file112; and displays the at least one multimedia content file112on the mobile device's displaying means114. Accordingly, owners of the multimedia content file112and can market their products and services with targeted messages for their customers.

Interactive advertising app110includes computer executable instruction code112configured for tracking variables determinative of the type of lead for an electronic lead generation form based on the level of the review and/or identity of verifiable individual contact information. Variables being tracked include but are not limited to: the length of time expended in reviewing the company's profile during a review session, number of additional related searches based on keywords within the company's profile, number of keystrokes within any given review session to determine whether the search is active or latent because of session time out or computer in sleep mode. System200is configured for receiving a request for publishing a blank lead generation form208(not shown), from which the measured variables are used to create an indicator as to the type of lead, e.g. cold, warm or hot and the like, wherein the indicator is represented by a visual key210(not shown) such that the recipient has a visible key indicative as to the type of lead.

FIGS. 3A & 3Bshow an example of the system300in use according to one embodiment. As shown inFIG. 3A, the operative interactive icon128that was activated included the control command130for displaying any related promotions302, e.g. an electronic coupon302, within the interactive frame116. Here, the encoded image114included a promotion for a shoe product, and as such when the icon128for displaying coupons302,302′ was activated, the interactive advertising app110searched the mobile device's memory means106or hyperlinked to the app's electronic database106′ or the advertiser's website to locate the related coupon302for display within the interactive frame116. As shown, the other icons128′,128″,128′″ are still visible and accessible for user interaction. Accordingly, user has the option of displaying the coupon302for a purchase at a store as the coupon's barcode304is visible for scanning and also available via user's mobile device102.

As shown inFIG. 3B, the operative interactive icon128for the control command10for displaying product details306, e.g. product description, including pricing or other specifications, which may be displayed as a visual image as opposed to a video within the interactive frame116.

FIG. 4shows an exemplary system400according to one embodiment of the invention. Here, the interactive icon128is operative for the control command130for locating stores402,402′ that sells the advertised product. As such, embedded within the interactive frame116is a hyperlink126to link to the Internet and/or further the store's web address to locate stores402,402′. As shown, once the stores402,402′ are located, directions144to these stores402,402′ may be obtained using an exemplary radio button204. The directions144may be provided as a map404or detailed listing including turn by turn directions144for the location of a particular store402or broadcasted in audio over the speaker146.

FIGS. 5A & 5Bshow an exemplary system500according to one embodiment of the invention. As previously mentioned, all scanned encoded images114,114′ automatically get stored in an electronic folder142(“AD VAULT”) for later retrieval and review. User maintains control over what encoded images114,114′ are retained or deleted, e.g. a user may long-tap a stored encoded image114to delete it from the electronic folder142. As such, when the user is ready to review the corresponding multimedia content file112, the interactive advertising app110may have radio buttons204,204′ to, for example, select the encoded image114and for example play the third party multimedia advertising content111prior to, or as an advert interruption to the multimedia content file112linked to the encoded image114or obtain directions140for stores or retrieve coupons302,302′. In selecting an exemplary encoded image114for displaying the multimedia content file112, user may learn more details for the product being advertised, e.g. there may be a radio button204for “Ad Details,” which if depressed may yield additional information or yield hot links502to the advertiser's website. The product details306may be displayed in text, e.g. company offer and/or a video, which can be played on the mobile device's displaying means136. Additional radio buttons206,206′ may be displayed allowing the user to perform additional transactions or interaction with the encoded image114. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, user may click the radio button204to purchase the product e.g. either via a secondary app110′ or a link to the advertiser's website where the user may purchase the same. As such the interactive advertising app110provides for product purchases (goods and services) related to the encoded image114.

FIGS. 6A & 6Brepresent a system600in accordance with one embodiment. System600comprises of a communications module602and a processor module604configured for performing the system's600functions mentioned herein. The term “module,” as used throughout this disclosure, may refer to a unit of distinct functionality that may be presented in software, hardware, or combinations thereof. When the functionality of a module is performed in any part through software, the module includes a machine readable medium.

Communications module602is configured for communicating over the computer network138to locate for example the third-party multimedia advertising content111and the multimedia content file112,112′ for one or more advertisers. In one embodiment, communications module602may comprise a hardware aspect, such as communications hardware. Such communications hardware may include, but is not limited to, a network adapter and/or card, a modem, and the other like communications means132that are well known and used in the arts and other future wireless protocol suitable for transmitting and receiving data. In yet another embodiment, communications module602may comprise both hardware and software aspects, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure. Communications module602is operative to transmit or receive electronic communications, i.e. electronic data, audio, videos, text, pictures, graphs and the like via a short range wireless protocol, such as, but not limited to, a radio frequency receiver, a radio frequency transmitter, or a radio frequency transceiver.

Processor module604may comprise of a hardware aspect such as a computer processor104, including, but not limited to, any of those previously described with reference to the embodiments described throughout the present disclosure. In another embodiment, processor module604may comprise of a software aspect, such as, but not limited to, a computer program, such as an operating system, matching software, word parsing software, word editor, multimedia player and the like. In yet another embodiment, processor module604may comprise both hardware and software aspects, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure. In some embodiments, processor module604may include software, e.g. computer software program, and hardware components to activate the interactive advertising module606for processing encoded images114, third-party multimedia advertising content111and multimedia content file112.

As shown inFIG. 6B, system600comprises of a memory module608to store for example, encoded images114,114′, hyperlinks126corresponding to the encoded images114, third-party multimedia advertising content111linked to registered multimedia content file112,112′ that are linked to the corresponding encoded images114,114′, company's website address or advertisers' URLs, control commands130,130′ and the like. Memory module608may possess a hardware aspect, such as storage hardware. Such storage hardware may include, but is not limited to, read-only memory, such as CD-ROMs, DVDs, floppy disks, and the like, read and write memory, such as a hard drive, floppy disc, CD-RW, DVD-RW, solid state memory, such as solid state hard drives, flash disks, and the like, and random access memory. In another embodiment, memory module608may possess a software aspect, such as, but not limited to, database building software, file management software, and the like. In yet another embodiment, memory module608may comprise both hardware and software aspects, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure.

System600further comprises a server module610to control the systems100-600functions discussed herein. Server module610may host the interactive advertising module606for reading the encoded images114,114′, linking to advertiser's websites to retrieve the third-party multimedia advertising content111and other registered users' multimedia content files112,112′ where the third-party multimedia advertising content111may be published for example as a preview to the multimedia content file112, for which access may be made a closed computer network138, such as, but not limited to, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), an integrated services digital network, a dial-up network, or other forms of a closed computer network138.

In an alternate embodiment of system600, server module610provides for access over an open computer network138, such as, but not limited to, a world-wide-web, e.g. the Internet138or other forms of an open computer network138. In one embodiment, server module610may comprise a hardware aspect, such as, but not limited to, a server computer138. In another embodiment, server module610may comprise a software aspect, such as hosting computer software, including, but not limited to, a server operating system. In yet another embodiment, server module610may comprise both hardware and software aspects, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure.

System600includes the interactive advertising module606that comprises a software aspect, e.g. a computer software program that resides on a server computer138. In another embodiment, the interactive advertising module606may comprise of a hardware aspect. In yet another embodiment, the interactive advertising module606may comprise both hardware and software aspects, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure. Interactive advertising module606comprises of software program comprising of computer executable instructions106readable and executable by the computer processor104and configured for: retrieving third-party multimedia advertising content111for publishing the third-party multimedia advertising content111that may be wholly unrelated (source, media format and subject matter) to the multimedia content file112, controlling a multimedia content file112corresponding to at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116that includes at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124with at least one hyperlink126or icon128embedded within, responsive to the control command130, and configured for controlling the multimedia content file112corresponding to the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116by overlaying the at least one encoded image114with the at least one embedded icon128, which has an associated control command130; activating the at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124when the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116is scanned; displaying the at least one multimedia content file112for the captured at least one encoded image114pursuant to a control command130associated with the at least one embedded icon128; receiving at least one control command130for displaying the at least one multimedia content file112within the interactive frame114with full functionality for review and control when the multimedia content file112is published; wherein those control commands130for displaying the at least one multimedia content file112include but are not limited to any one or more of the following: play, stop, fast-forward, rewind, pause, maximize viewing, minimize, end and cancel; retrieving directions144′ related to the multimedia content file112for the captured at least one encoded image114; displaying the directions144,144′ as retrieved within the interactive frame116; retrieving the at least one multimedia content file112by linking to an advertiser's website via its web address; providing for product purchases related to the encoded image114; and storing a plurality of captured encoded images114,114′ within an electronic folder142with full functionality for managing stored electronic data as are customary in the arts.

System600further comprises of a display module612configured for displaying the encoded images114,114′, the third-party multimedia advertising content111and multimedia content file112,112′, and the like. Display module612may comprise a software aspect, such as display software, including, but not limited to, video software, video drivers, graphic display software, or other software suitable to display information. In another embodiment, the display module612may comprise a hardware aspect, such as display hardware, including, but not limited to, a video graphics card, a computer monitor, a projector, a television, other forms of viewing screens, or other hardware suitable to display computer data. In yet another embodiment, the display module612may comprise both hardware and software aspects, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, system600further comprises of a network module614to access a computer network124. In one embodiment, the network module614is operative to access a closed computer network124, such as a local area network, a dial-up network, or another form of closed computer network. In another embodiment, the network module614is operative to access an open computer network124, such as a world-wide-web, or any other form of open computer network. In one embodiment, the network module614may comprise a software aspect, such as network software, including, but not limited to, networking software such as those produced by CISCO SYSTEMS®, SUN MICROSYSTEMS®, and ORACLE®. In another embodiment, the network module614may comprise a hardware aspect, such as network hardware, including, but not limited to, a network adapter, a wireless network adapter, a modem, and other hardware capable of accessing and/or communicating through a network. In yet another embodiment, the network module614may comprise both hardware and software modules, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure.

System600further comprises of a web browser module616operative to transmit, locate, retrieve and/or receive over the Internet information linked to the icon128. In one embodiment, web browser module604may comprise a software aspect, such as a computer program, including, but not limited to, MICROSOFT INTERNET EXPLORER®, NETSCAPE NAVIGATOR®, OPERA®, MOSAIC®, SAFARI®, CHROME®, or any other form of computer software or program capable of browsing a computer network138, such as the world-wide-web. In another embodiment, web browser module616may comprise a hardware aspect, such as a personal computer, including but not limited to, a web pc, a laptop, an internet station, a personal digital assistant, a smart phone, and the like. In yet another embodiment, web browser module616may comprise both hardware and software aspects, such as those described directly above and elsewhere throughout the present disclosure.

Methods

FIG. 7is an exemplary method700of the invention according to one embodiment. Method700comprises of launching an interactive advertising application program110configured for displaying third-party multimedia advertising content111for controlling review of at least one multimedia content file112linked to at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116that includes at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124with at least one or more hyperlinks126,126′ or icon128,128′ embedded within, where upon activation of the at least one embedded hyperlink126or icon128it may be engaged for accessing and controlling the multimedia content file112by overlaying the at least one encoded image114with the activated at least one icon128(step702).

The interactive advertising app110may comprise in part of a browser, such as for use on the mobile device102, or a similar browsing device. Interactive advertising app110may be any type of software application, such as a standalone application designed to run on a mobile platform, such as a mobile device running an operating system152, such as iOS™, Android™, Windows Mobile™, Blackberry™, and the like. Interactive advertising app110may be operative for an iPhone, any other “smart phone,” mobile device, cellular phone, PDA, GPS or any other mobile device102capable of handling electronic transactions dealing with dynamic content, object, application, or software. In some embodiments, the interactive advertising app110may be designed to run on a social network platform, such as FACEBOOK® or JUSTSYNC®. In some embodiments, interactive advertising app110may reside on a server computer140and may be downloadable from the server computer140or otherwise reside in the mobile device's local memory means106. In one embodiment, the interactive advertising app110may be on a mobile device102and the full-sized software program may be on a server computer138, where communications may occur over a network or directly, either wired or wirelessly. As such the user may use his/her smart mobile device102to interact with the encoded image114.

Method700further comprises linking to an electronic address to locate and retrieve the third-party multimedia advertising content111and the multimedia content file112linked to the encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116(step704). Method700further comprises publishing the third-party multimedia advertising content111in conjunction with the multimedia content file112(step706) and deriving revenue for the publication of the third-party multimedia advertising content111that is linked to the multimedia content file112.

In some embodiments method700further comprises receiving at least one control command130for scanning the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116for which the interactive advertising app110is configured for communicating with the mobile device's processor104that is in electronic communication with the mobile device's image capturing means132and scanning the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116with the at least one hyperlink126or icon128embedded within. As previously discussed, the correlating at least one multimedia content file112may be viewed immediately or the at least one encoded image114may be stored for later review. Once the image capturing means132scans the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116, the interactive advertising app110activates the at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124and its respective icons128,128′,128″,128′″ for controlling the corresponding multimedia content file112. The activated icons128,128′,128″,128′″ in the hot corners118,120,122,124may pulsate, blink or be displayed with a color contrast or in animation thereby alerting the user of the option to interact with the encoded image114by exploring one or more of the interactive icons128,128′ with corresponding control commands130,130′. In some embodiments, the control commands130,130′ are also visibly displayed as the hot corners118,120,122,124are activated while in other embodiments the control commands130,130′ only become visible as the icon128is being engaged.

Method700further comprises receiving a control command130to control the multimedia content file112when the at least one icon128from an activated hot corner118overlays the at least one encoded image114as the user drags the icon128to the designated area150. Method700further comprises controlling the at least one multimedia content file112, correlating to at least one encoded image114that includes an embedded hyperlink126or an icon128, responsive to the control command. Multimedia content file112as used herein includes any one or more of the following: videos, promotions, coupons, coupon codes, bar codes, discounts, pricing, availability, store locations, directions, television commercials, radio advertisements, print advertisements, movies, and movie trailers and the like.

In some embodiments, the step of receiving a control command130includes receiving a control command130for displaying the at least one multimedia content file112within the interactive frame114. As such, method700further comprises displaying the at least one multimedia content file112within the interactive frame114with full functionality for review and control commands130,130′, including any one or more of the following: play, stop, fast-forward, rewind, pause, maximize viewing, minimize, and cancel and the like.

In some embodiments, the step of receiving a control command130includes receiving a control command130for any one or more of the following: displaying any promotions302, e.g. coupons302,302′ or product details306for a featured or related product shown in the encoded image114within the interactive frame116. In other embodiments, the step of receiving a control command130includes receiving a control command130for locating stores402,402′ for example the featured product in the encoded image114or generating and/or publishing directions144to for example the store locations that may be published in audio, map or listing of turn by turn directions144.

Accordingly method700further comprises displaying any promotions302,302′, e.g. coupons302,302′ or product details306for a featured or related product shown in the encoded image114within the interactive frame116wherein the barcode304and or the coupon302displayed is available for use in brick and mortar stores or e-commerce. Product details306may also be published in audio or pictorial format and wherein user may utilize radio button204,206′ to make product purchases.

Method700further comprises locating stores402,402′ for example the stores402,402′ selling the featured or a related product as shown in the encoded image114by linking to for example the advertiser's website or another search engine to locate the requested directions144. In some embodiments, the interactive advertising app110may employ the map generator for the mobile device102to seek the requested directions144that will be published within the interactive frame116. The interactive advertising app110is also configured for generating and/or publishing directions144to for example the stores'402,402′ locations that may be published in audio, map or listing of turn by turn directions144.

FIG. 8is an exemplary method800of the invention according to one embodiment. Method800comprises of launching an interactive advertising application program110configured for displaying third-party multimedia advertising content111for controlling review of at least one multimedia content file112linked to at least one encoded image114framed by an interactive frame116that includes at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124with at least one or more hyperlinks126,126′ or icon128,128′ embedded within, where upon activation of the at least one embedded hyperlink126or icon128it may be engaged for accessing and controlling the multimedia content file112by overlaying the at least one encoded image114with the activated at least one icon128(step802). Method800further comprises receiving at least one control command130for scanning the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116(step804) for which the mobile device's image capturing means132scans the at least one encoded image114within the interactive frame116with the at least one hyperlink126or icon128embedded within (step806).

Method800further comprises the interactive advertising app110activating the at least one or more hot corners118,120,122,124and its respective icons128,128′,128″,128′″ for controlling the corresponding multimedia content file112(step808). If the user wants to display the multimedia content file112and selected the icon128for the control command130for displaying the multimedia content file112. As such, method800comprises receiving a control command130for displaying the multimedia content file112when the at least one icon128from an activated hot corner118for the control command130for displaying the multimedia content file112overlays the at least one encoded image114(step810) as the user drags the icon128to the designated area150.

Method800comprises retrieving the multimedia content file112(step812) by hyperlinking to an advertiser's website via its web address or searching the mobile device's memory means106. Once the at least one multimedia content file112is retrieved, it is ready for display. Accordingly, method800comprises displaying the at least one multimedia content file112within the interactive frame116with interspersed publication of the third-party multimedia content111(step814) on the mobile communication's displaying means136or the billboard146with full functionality for review and control using control commands130,130′. As previously discussed, control commands122,122′ include but are not limited to any one or more of the following: play, stop, fast-forward, rewind, pause, maximize viewing, minimize, stop and cancel.

FIG. 9is an exemplary method900of the invention according to one embodiment, e.g. capturing the encoded image114for later review of the multimedia content file112according to the steps of902-910, which are identical to steps802-810.

Method900further comprises storing the at least one encoded image114(step912) within the interactive frame116that includes at least one or more embedded hyperlinks126,126′ or an icons128,128′ on the mobile device's memory means106for later review. The captured encoded images114,114′ are stored in an electronic folder142from which user has control over which encoded images114,114′ are retained, when and which to delete and/or retrieve for review of the corresponding multimedia content file112to be displayed within the interactive frame116. User may also email the encoded images114,114′ as he/she chooses.

At the user's leisure, user may want to recall the at least one encoded image114, for which method900comprises the interactive advertising app110receiving a control command130to display the encoded image114(step914) where the interactive advertising app110retrieves the multimedia content file112(step916) from the mobile device's memory means106, the advertiser's website or from the Internet138. Once the at least one multimedia content file112is retrieved, it is ready for display. Accordingly, method900comprises controlling the display of the at least one multimedia content file112with full functionality for review and control (step918) using control commands122,122′. Method900comprises displaying the at least one multimedia content file112within the interactive frame116(step920) on the mobile communication's displaying means136. The multimedia content file112may be displayed in any one or more of the following formats: audio, video, pictorial, graphical or text format.

Advertisers are generally very interested in tracking the effectiveness of placed advertisements, e.g. which encoded image114was uploaded and/or how many times the multimedia content file112was reviewed whether reviewed on the mobile communication's displaying means136or the printed statement148. In either event, method700comprises capturing statistical information for the at least one multimedia content file124that was viewed or the coded advertisement image114as uploaded and providing reports based on the captured statistical information.

Hardware and Operating Environment

This section provides an overview of example hardware and the operating environments in conjunction with which embodiments of the inventive subject matter can be implemented.

A software program may be launched from a computer readable medium in computer-based systems100-600to execute the functions defined in the software program. Various programming languages may be employed to create software programs designed to implement and perform the methods disclosed herein. The programs may be structured in an object-orientated format using an object-oriented language such as Java or C++. Alternatively the programs may be structured in a procedure-oriented format using a procedural language, such as assembly or C. The software components may communicate using a number of mechanisms, such as application program interfaces, or inter-process communication techniques, including remote procedure calls. The teachings of various embodiments are not limited to any particular programming language or environment. Thus, other embodiments may be realized, as discussed regardingFIG. 10below.

FIG. 10is a block diagram representing an apparatus1000according to various embodiments. Such embodiments may comprise a computer, a memory system, a magnetic or optical disk, some other storage device, or any type of electronic device or system. The apparatus1000may include one or more processor(s)1004coupled to a machine-accessible medium such as a memory1002(e.g., a memory including electrical, optical, or electromagnetic elements). The medium may contain associated information1004(e.g., computer program instructions, data, or both) which, when accessed, results in a machine (e.g., the processor(s)1004) performing the activities previously described herein.

The principles of the present disclosure may be applied to all types of computers, systems, and the like, include desktop computers, servers, notebook computers, personal digital assistants, microcomputers, and the like. However, the present disclosure may not be limited to the personal computer.