| |
| United States Patent Application |
20060007788 |
| Kind Code |
A1 |
| Cunningham; Matthew B. |
January 12, 2006 |
Memento timepiece systems
Abstract
A memento timepiece system adapted to assist an individual in the daily
observance of at least one daily event memorable to the individual. Many
individuals have within their experience, a person, life event, or other
occasion that they wish to remember daily, weekly or monthly. The present
invention comprises a timepiece, such as a wristwatch, having a factory preset
alarm time to mark a daily act of remembrance. Business methods relating to the
manufacture and distribution of the memento timepiece systems are also
disclosed.
| Inventors: |
Cunningham; Matthew B.; (Phoenix,
AZ) |
| Correspondence Name and Address: |
STONEMAN LAW OFFICES, LTD
3113 NORTH 3RD STREET
PHOENIX
AZ
85012
US
|
| Serial No.: |
165965 |
| Series Code: |
11 |
| Filed: |
June 24, 2005 |
| U.S. Current Class: |
368/73; 368/243 |
| U.S. Class at Publication: |
368/073; 368/243 |
| Intern'l Class: |
G04B 23/02 20060101 G04B023/02;
G04C 21/00 20060101 G04C021/00; G04B 23/00 20060101
G04B023/00 |
Claims
1) Memento timepiece systems, relating to at least one daily observance
of at least one event memorable to at least one user, comprising: a) at least
one timekeeper adapted to keep current time-of-day data; b) at least one alerter
adapted to provide at least one daily user alert as at least one memento of the
at least one event memorable to the at least one user; and c) at least one alert
initiator, coupled with said at least one alerter and coupled with said at least
one timekeeper, adapted to initiate the at least one daily user alert by said at
least one alerter; d) wherein said at least one alert initiator further
comprises at least one factory presetter adapted to factory preset, in a manner
not user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least one daily user alert, as the
at least one memento of the at least one event memorable to the at least one
user, at at least one preset daily (24-hour timekeeper day) time-of-day
according to said at least one timekeeper; and e) wherein the at least one
preset daily time-of-day defines from one to about ten preset times of day.
2) The memento timepiece systems according to claim 1 further comprising
indicia to visually depict at least one memorable aspect of the event memorable
to the at least one user.
3) The memento timepiece systems according to
claim 2 wherein said indicia visually reminds the at least one user of at least
one event of the Christian religion.
4) The memento timepiece systems
according to claim 1 further comprising at least one user operable suppressor
adapted to permit user operable suppression of the at least one user alert.
5) The memento timepiece systems according to claim 1 wherein said at
least one timekeeper comprises at least one date keeper adapted to keep current
calendar-date data.
6) The memento timepiece systems according to claim
1 wherein said at least one factory presetter is factory presettable to initiate
the at least one user alert at any time-of-day of a 24-hour timekeeper day.
7) The memento timepiece systems according to claim 1 wherein said at
least one factory presetter is factory presettable to initiate exactly one daily
user alert at about the three-o'clock PM hour.
8) The memento timepiece
systems according to claim 1 further comprising at least one housing adapted to
house said at least one timekeeper, said at least one alerter and said at least
one alert initiator.
9) The memento timepiece systems according to claim
8 wherein said at least one housing comprises at least one portable
communication device.
10) The memento timepiece systems according to
claim 9 wherein said at least one housing comprises at least one wearable
element to assist wearable support of said at least one housing adjacent at
least one body portion of the at least one user.
11) The memento
timepiece systems according to claim 9 wherein said at least one wearable
element comprises at least one lanyard assembly adapted to assist wearable
support of said at least one housing about at least one neck portion of the at
least one user.
12) The memento timepiece systems according to claim 9
wherein said at least one wearable element comprises at least one attacher
structured and arranged to permit attachability of said at least one housing to
at least one article of clothing of the at least one use.
13) The
memento timepiece systems according to claim 10 further comprising: a) at least
one indicia to visually depict at least one memorable aspect of the event
memorable to the at least one user; and b) at least one user operable suppressor
adapted to permit user operable suppression of the at least one user alert; c)
wherein said at least one wearable element comprises at least one wristband
assembly adapted to assist wearable support of said at least one housing
adjacent to at least one arm portion of the at least one user; d) wherein said
indicia visually reminds the at least one user of at least one event of the
Christian religion; e) wherein said at least one timekeeper comprises at least
one date keeper adapted to keep current calendar-date data; f) wherein said at
least one factory presetter is factory presettable to initiate exactly one daily
user alert at about the three-o'clock PM hour; g) wherein said at least one
alerter comprises at least one audio signal.
14) The memento timepiece
systems according to claim 13 wherein said at least one alerter further
comprises at least one visual signal.
15) The memento timepiece systems
according to claim 1 wherein said at least one timekeeper is structured and
arranged to receive wirelessly time-of-day corrections, wherein more accurate
time-of-day may be kept by said at least one timekeeper.
16) The memento
timepiece systems according to claim 1 wherein said at least one alerter
comprises at least one audio signal.
17) The memento timepiece systems
according to claim 1 wherein said at least one alerter comprises at least one
visual signal.
18) The memento timepiece systems according to claim 1
wherein said memento timepiece systems comprise no external time displays.
19) Memento timepiece systems, relating to at least one daily observance
of at least one event memorable to at least one user, comprising: a) timekeeper
means for keeping current time-of-day data; b) alerter means for providing at
least one daily user alert as at least one memento of the at least one event
memorable to the at least one user; and c) alert initiator means, coupled with
said alerter means and coupled with said timekeeper means, for initiating the at
least one daily user alert by said alerter means; d) wherein said alert
initiator means further comprises factory presetter means for factory
presetting, in a manner not user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least one
daily user alert, as the at least one memento of the at least one event
memorable to the at least one user, at at least one preset daily time-of-day
according to said timekeeper means; and e) wherein the at least one preset daily
time-of-day defines from one to about ten preset times of day.
20)
Business methods, relating to the daily observance of at least one event
memorable to a plurality of individuals, comprising the steps of: a) identifying
such at least one event memorable to such plurality of individuals; b) providing
for the manufacture of memento timepiece systems providing at least one daily
reminder of such at least one event memorable to such plurality of individuals;
c) offering to sell such memento timepiece systems; d) providing for acceptance
of orders and payment from at least one of such plurality of individuals for
such memento timepiece systems; and e) providing for shipping such ordered
memento timepiece systems to such at least one of such plurality of individuals;
f) wherein each of such memento timepiece systems comprises i) at least one
timekeeper adapted to keep current time-of-day data, ii) at least one alerter
adapted to provide at least one daily user alert as at least one memento of the
at least one event memorable to the at least one user, and iii) at least one
alert initiator, coupled with such at least one alerter and coupled with such at
least one timekeeper, adapted to initiate the at least one daily user alert by
such at least one alerter, iv) wherein such at least one alert initiator further
comprises at least one factory presetter adapted to factory preset, in a manner
not user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least one daily user alert, as the
at least one memento of the at least one event memorable to the at least one
user, at at least one preset daily time-of-day according to such at least one
timekeeper, and v) wherein the at least one preset daily time-of-day defines
from one to about ten preset times of day.
21) The business methods
according to claim 20 further comprising the steps of: a) accepting at least one
custom order for such memento timepiece systems to provide at least one daily
reminder of at least one event memorable to a specific individual; and b)
providing for the manufacture of such custom memento timepiece systems.
22) The business methods according to claim 20 wherein such step of
offering is performed through at least one site comprising an Internet site
operated in conjunction with at least one website server.
23) Business
methods relating to the daily observance of at least one event memorable to
members of at least one non-profit group, comprising the steps of: a)
identifying such at least one event memorable to such members of the at least
one non-profit group; b) providing for the manufacture of memento timepiece
systems providing at least one daily reminder of such at least one event
memorable to such members of the at least one non-profit group; c) offering to
sell such memento timepiece systems to such members of the at least one
non-profit group; d) providing for acceptance of orders and payment from at
least one of such members for such memento timepiece systems, at a wholesale
rate, essentially to assist such at least one non-profit group to carry out at
least one revenue producing resale of such memento timepiece systems; and e)
providing for shipping such ordered memento timepiece systems to such members of
such at least one non-profit group; f) wherein each of such memento timepiece
systems comprises i) at least one timekeeper adapted to keep current time-of-day
data, ii) at least one alerter adapted to provide at least one daily user alert
as at least one memento of the at least one event memorable to the at least one
user, and iii) at least one alert initiator, coupled with such at least one
alerter and coupled with such at least one timekeeper, adapted to initiate the
at least one daily user alert by such at least one alerter, iv) wherein such at
least one alert initiator further comprises at least one factory presetter
adapted to factory preset, in a manner not user-modifiable, the initiating of
the at least one daily user alert, as the at least one memento of the at least
one event memorable to the at least one user, at at least one preset daily
time-of-day according to such at least one timekeeper, and v) wherein the at
least one preset daily time-of-day defines from one to about ten preset times of
day.
24) The business methods according to claim 23 wherein such step of
offering is performed through at least one site comprising an Internet site
operated in conjunction with at least one website server.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present
application is related to and claims priority from prior provisional application
Ser. No. 60/587,639, filed Jul. 12, 2004, entitled "MEMENTO TIMEPIECE SYSTEMS",
the contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference and are not
admitted to be prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention in
this cross-reference section.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This invention
relates to memento timepiece systems. More particularly, this invention relates
to memento timepiece systems adapted to assist in the daily observance of at
least one event memorable to the individual.
[0003] History exists
through perceptible links created by individuals or groups to a past person or
event. Many individuals have, within their experience, a person, life event, or
other occasion that they wish to remember daily, weekly or monthly. For example,
remembering daily the 3 p.m. time of Christ's death or the 9/11 events of 2001
is important to many people. Such remembrances often include a moment of prayer,
silence or other such honoring act. Often an individual or group will perform
such remembrances at a specific time within the day.
[0004] It is clear,
based on the above discussion, that a need exists for systems adapted to assist
an individual or group of individuals in a daily act of remembrance by alerting
the individual at at least one specific pre-set time within the day.
Furthermore, a system that is easily carried with the individual and available
to alert the individual would be useful.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE
INVENTION
[0005] A primary object and feature of the present invention
is to overcome the above-mentioned problems and fulfill the above-mentioned
needs.
[0006] It is a further object and feature of the present
invention to provide a timekeeper system to assist an individual in a daily act
of remembrance by alerting the user at a specific pre-set time or times within
the day, preferably with respect to a 24-hour timekeeper time-of-day.
[0007] It is another object and feature of the present invention to
provide a system that is easily carried by the user as a personal item.
[0008] It is another object and feature of the present invention to
provide a system that "pre-sets" the time of remembrance at the factory by the
manufacturer.
[0009] It is another object and feature of the present
invention to provide a system that provides the user with current time and the
current date data.
[0010] It is another object and feature of the
present invention to provide a system that comprises a wristwatch.
[0011] It is another object and feature of the present invention to
provide a wearable timekeeper system having indicia thereon having a relation to
the occasion of the remembrance to be acted upon.
[0012] It is another
object and feature of the present invention to provide a system that comprises a
wearable housing of a size and weight that permits the device to be supported by
the body of the user.
[0013] It is another object and feature of the
present invention to provide a system that receives wireless time data from a
remote source.
[0014] It is another object and feature of the present
invention to provide a method of producing custom memento timepieces.
[0015] It is an additional object and feature of the present invention
to provide a method of providing memento timepieces, at a wholesale price, to
assist non-profit groups in fund-raising efforts.
[0016] A further
primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide such a system
that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other objects and features of this
invention will become apparent with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] In accordance with a preferred
embodiment hereof, this invention provides memento timepiece systems, relating
to at least one daily observance of at least one event memorable to at least one
user, comprising: timekeeper means for keeping current time-of-day data; alerter
means for providing at least one daily user alert as at least one memento of the
at least one event memorable to the at least one user; and alert initiator
means, coupled with such alerter means and coupled with such timekeeper means,
for initiating the at least one daily user alert by such alerter means; wherein
such alert initiator means further comprises factory presetter means for factory
presetting, in a manner not user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least one
daily user alert, as the at least one memento of the at least one event
memorable to the at least one user, at at least one preset daily time-of-day
according to such timekeeper means; and wherein the at least one preset daily
time-of-day defines from one to about ten preset times of day, most preferably
exactly one time of day.
[0018] Moreover, it provides such memento
timepiece systems further comprising housing means for housing such timekeeper
means, such alerter means, and such alert initiator means. Additionally, it
provides such memento timepiece systems wherein such housing means comprises
wearability means for assisting wearability of such housing means adjacent at
least one portion of the body of the at least one user. Also, it provides such
memento timepiece systems further comprising indicia means for visually
depicting at least one memorable aspect of the event memorable to the at least
one user. In addition, it provides such memento timepiece systems further
comprising user operable suppressor means for user operable suppression of the
at least one daily user alert. And, it provides such memento timepiece systems
wherein such time keeper means comprises date keeper means for keeping current
calendar date data.
[0019] In accordance with another preferred
embodiment hereof, this invention provides memento timepiece systems, relating
to at least one daily observance of at least one event memorable to at least one
user, comprising: at least one timekeeper adapted to keep current time-of-day
data; at least one alerter adapted to provide at least one daily user alert as
at least one memento of the at least one event memorable to the at least one
user; and at least one alert initiator, coupled with such at least one alerter
and coupled with such at least one timekeeper, adapted to initiate the at least
one daily user alert by such at least one alerter; wherein such at least one
alert initiator further comprises at least one factory presetter adapted to
factory preset, in a manner not user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least
one daily user alert, as the at least one memento of the at least one event
memorable to the at least one user, at at least one daily set time-of-day
according to such at least one timekeeper; and wherein the at least one daily
set time-of-day according to such at least one timekeeper comprises a number
from one to about ten.
[0020] Further, it provides such memento
timepiece systems further comprising indicia to visually depict at least one
memorable aspect of the event memorable to the at least one user. Even further,
it provides such memento timepiece systems wherein such indicia visually reminds
the at least one user of at least one event of the Christian religion. Moreover,
it provides such memento timepiece systems further comprising at least one user
operable suppressor adapted to permit user operable suppression of the at least
one user alert. Additionally, it provides such memento timepiece systems wherein
such at least one timekeeper comprises at least one date keeper adapted to keep
current calendar-date data. Also, it provides such memento timepiece systems
wherein such at least one factory presetter is factory presettable to initiate
the at least one user alert at any time-of-day. In addition, it provides such
memento timepiece systems wherein such at least one factory presetter is factory
presettable to initiate the at least one user alert at about the three-o'clock
hour. And, it provides such a memento timepiece systems further comprising at
least one housing adapted to house such at least one timekeeper, such at least
one alerter and such at least one alert initiator. Further, it provides such
memento timepiece systems wherein such at least one housing comprises at least
one wearable element to assist wearable support of such at least one housing
adjacent at least one body portion of the at least one user.
[0021] Even
further, it provides such memento timepiece systems wherein such at least one
wearable element comprises at least one wristband assembly adapted to assist
wearable support of such at least one housing adjacent to at least one arm
portion of the at least one user. Moreover, it provides such memento timepiece
systems wherein such at least one wearable element comprises at least one
lanyard assembly adapted to assist wearable support of such at least one housing
about at least one neck portion of the at least one user. Additionally, it
provides such memento timepiece systems wherein such at least one wearable
element comprises at least one attacher structured and arranged to permit
attachability of such at least one housing to at least one article of clothing
of the at least one use.
[0022] In accordance with another preferred
embodiment and methods hereof, this invention provides business methods relating
to the daily observance of at least one event memorable to a plurality of
individuals, comprising the steps of: identifying such at least one event
memorable to such plurality of individuals; providing for the manufacture of
memento timepiece systems providing at least one daily reminder of such at least
one event memorable to such plurality of individuals; operating at least one
site offering to sell such memento timepiece systems; providing for acceptance
of orders and payment from at least one of such plurality of individuals for
such memento timepiece systems; and providing for shipping such ordered memento
timepiece systems to such at least one of such plurality of individuals wherein
each of such memento timepiece systems comprises at least one timekeeper adapted
to keep current time-of-day data, at least one alerter adapted to provide at
least one daily user alert as at least one memento of the at least one event
memorable to the at least one user, and at least one alert initiator, coupled
with such at least one alerter and coupled with such at least one timekeeper,
adapted to initiate the at least one daily user alert by such at least one
alerter, wherein such at least one alert initiator further comprises at least
one factory presetter adapted to factory preset, in a manner not
user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least one daily user alert, as the at
least one memento of the at least one event memorable to the at least one user,
at at least one preset daily time-of-day, and wherein the at least one preset
daily time-of-day defines from one to about ten preset times of day, most
preferably exactly one time of day.
[0023] Also, it provides such
business methods further comprising the steps of: accepting at least one custom
order for such memento timepiece systems to provide at least one daily reminder
of at least one event memorable to a specific individual; and providing for the
manufacture of such custom memento timepiece systems. In addition, it provides
such business methods wherein such at least one site comprises an Internet site
operated in conjunction with at least one website server.
[0024] In
accordance with another preferred embodiment and methods hereof, this invention
provides business methods relating to the daily observance of at least one event
memorable to members of at least one non-profit group, comprising the steps of:
identifying such at least one event memorable to such members of the at least
one non-profit group; providing for the manufacture of memento timepiece systems
providing at least one daily reminder of such at least one event memorable to
such members of the at least one non-profit group; operating at least one site
offering to sell such memento timepiece systems to such members of the at least
one non-profit group; providing for acceptance of orders and payment from at
least one of such members for such memento timepiece systems, at a wholesale
rate, essentially to assist such at least one non-profit group to carry out at
least one revenue producing resale of such memento timepiece systems; and
providing for shipping such ordered memento timepiece systems to such members of
such at least one non-profit group wherein each of such memento timepiece
systems comprises at least one timekeeper adapted to keep current time-of-day
data, at least one alerter adapted to provide at least one daily user alert as
at least one memento of the at least one event memorable to the at least one
user, and at least one alert initiator, coupled with such at least one alerter
and coupled with such at least one timekeeper, adapted to initiate the at least
one daily user alert by such at least one alerter, wherein such at least one
alert initiator further comprises at least one factory presetter adapted to
factory preset, in a manner not user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least
one daily user alert, as the at least one memento of the at least one event
memorable to the at least one user, at at least one daily set time-of-day
according to such at least one timekeeper, and wherein the at least one daily
set time-of-day according to such at least one timekeeper comprises a number
from one to about ten.
[0025] And, it provides such a business methods
wherein such at least one site comprises an Internet site operated in
conjunction with at least one website server. Furthermore, this invention
provides each and every novel feature, element, combination, step and/or method
disclosed or suggested by this provisional patent application.
BRIEF
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view
illustrating a memento timepiece system, alerting a user at a pre-set time,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0027]
FIG. 2 shows a partial front view of the memento timepiece system according to
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 3 shows a perspective
view, illustrating another embodiment of the memento timepiece system, according
to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 4 shows a block
diagram, generally illustrating the internal component arrangements of the
memento timepiece system, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 5 shows a flowchart diagram, generally illustrating the
novel operational aspects of the memento timepiece system, according to the
preferred embodiments of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 6 shows a
partial front view of the memento timepiece system according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 7 shows a
partial front view of the memento timepiece system according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 8 shows a
front view of the memento timepiece system according to another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 9 shows a perspective
view, illustrating the memento timepiece system as a desk clock, according to
another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 10
shows a perspective view, illustrating the memento timepiece system as a
portable communication device, according to another preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
[0036] FIG. 11 shows a diagram, illustrating a
memento timepiece system adapted to receive time and frequency data from a
remote broadcast site, according to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0037] FIG. 12 shows a front view of the memento timepiece
system, in a wearable configuration, solely adapted to provide daily remembrance
alerts, according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 13 shows a front view of a custom memento timepiece system
according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 14 shows a flowchart diagram, generally illustrating a
method of producing and distributing memento timepiece systems, according to the
preferred embodiments of FIG. 1 through FIG. 12.
[0040] FIG. 15 shows a
flowchart diagram, generally illustrating a method of producing and distributing
custom memento timepiece systems, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG.
13.
[0041] FIG. 16 shows a diagram, generally illustrating a business
method related to producing and distributing memento timepiece systems,
according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE
INVENTION
[0042] The following definitions are provided to facilitate
understanding of certain terms used frequently herein. The explanation is
provided as a convenience and is not limitative of the invention.
[0043]
In the present disclosure, the term "memento" is defined as one (or more)
apparatus or structure established to remind an individual or group of
individuals of a person or event.
[0044] The term "timepiece" is defined
as a device (such as a clock or watch) to measure or show progress of time.
[0045] The terms "alert" or "alert signal" are each defined as a means
(such as a sound, visible indicator, or perceptible movement) for conveying
notice. Further, these terms shall include alerting means having both
essentially instantaneous and extended durations (as in a grouping of audible
tones lasting one minute).
[0046] In the accompanying drawings, some
structures and devices may be shown in block diagram form in order to provide an
understanding of the interrelationship between components and the flow of
information and control throughout the depicted preferred embodiment of the
present invention. Upon reading the applicant's specification, it will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the teachings herein that the
invention may be practiced with a variety of different specific components
provided to serve the generalized block diagram description.
[0047] FIG.
1 shows a perspective view illustrating memento timepiece system 100, alerting
user 102 to a pre-set time of remembrance, according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention. Memento timepiece system 100 preferably comprises a
physical arrangement adapted to permit user 102 to carry memento timepiece
system 100 adjacent to the body as a personal object, as shown. Memento
timepiece system 100 most preferably comprises a wearable wristwatch 104, as
shown.
[0048] Preferably, memento timepiece system 100 comprises at
least one alerting component adapted to produce an alerting signal such as the
audible chime shown. Preferably, for user convenience, the times at which
memento timepiece system 100 generates the alerting signal is pre-set at the
factory and, in general, is not adjustable by the user. By the term "factory
presetting" (and the like) when used in this specification is meant that the
action occurs during at least one manufacturing and/or assembly process.
Preferably, memento timepiece system 100 is factory programmed to provide an
alerting signal at at least one specific time during a day, most preferably at
one daily time. For example, memento timepiece system 100 may be factory
programmed to generate a one-minute alert signal at 3:00 p.m. each day to assist
user 102 in remembering the time of Christ's death. Preferably, to accommodate a
range of memorial events, memento timepiece system 100 is factory-programmable
to provide between one alert signal and about ten alert signals within a single
24-hour period (at least embodying herein at least one preset daily time-of-day;
and further at least embodying herein wherein the at least one preset daily
time-of-day defines from one to about ten preset times of day), preferably
exactly one time of day (at least embodying herein at least one factory
presetter is factory presettable to initiate exactly one daily user alert at
about the three-o'clock PM hour). Preferably, memento timepiece system 100
provides user 102 with at least one means for stopping or suspending the alert
signal when an alert is not desired (such as during a meeting, movie, period of
sleep, etc.).
[0049] FIG. 2 shows a partial front view of memento
timepiece system 100 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
Preferably, memento timepiece system 100 generally comprises many of the
external features of a conventional watch including; outer case 106 (at least
embodying herein housing means), adjustment crown 108, transparent crystal 110,
dial 112, handset 114 (hour, minute and second), lugs 116, and band 118, as
shown. Preferably, adjustment crown 108 is adapted to permit time adjustment of
the internal timekeeping movement. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, given such issues as user preference, timepiece
configuration, etc., using the adjustment crown to perform additional functions,
such as winding, silencing the alert signal, adjusting the current date, etc,
may suffice.
[0050] Preferably, memento timepiece system 100 comprises
memento indicia 120, as shown. Preferably, memento indicia 120 provide a visual
connection to the person or event to be remembered thereby assisting user 102 in
the act of remembrance (at least embodying herein indicia means for visually
depicting at least one memorable aspect of the event memorable to the at least
one user). Preferably, the outward appearance of memento indicia 120 are
selected based on a visual association with the person or event to be
remembered. If memento timepiece system 100 is used to assist user 102 in a
religious observation, memento indicia 120 may preferably comprise a traditional
symbol or common phrase drawn from the religion's traditions and practices. For
example, the memento indicia 120 of FIG. 2 comprises Christian cross 122, used
as a symbolic representation of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus
Christ. Preferably, one or more memento indicia 120 are applied to a visible
external portion of memento timepiece system 100, such as the face of dial 112,
as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as user preference, physical shape, intended use, etc.,
other indicia locations, such as the outer case, bezel, crystal, band, back,
etc., may suffice.
[0051] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view, illustrating
a variation of memento timepiece system 100, according to the preferred
embodiments of FIG. 1. Preferably, memento timepiece system 100 is adaptable to
provide an analog display (with hands and dial as illustrated in FIG. 1), or
electronic display 124 with time data displayed in digits, as shown, or a
combination of both. Electronic display 124 may preferably comprise an
arrangement of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) or Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), as
shown. Electronic display 124 is especially applicable to timepiece arrangements
used in sport-type watches, as shown.
[0052] Preferably, memento
timepiece system 100 may be adaptable to include the display of current date
126, as shown (at least embodying herein wherein such timekeeper means comprises
date keeper means for keeping current calendar date data). Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference,
intended use, etc., the inclusion of other display functions, such as stopwatch
operations, analog/digital display combinations, pulse rate monitoring, GPS
positioning, temperature indication, numerical data messaging, etc., may
suffice.
[0053] As in the prior figures, memento timepiece system 100
preferably comprises memento indicia 120, as shown. Preferably, memento
timepiece system 100 of FIG. 3 comprises external controls 128 (that may
preferably include adjustment crown 108 of FIG. 1) to permit the user to set the
current time and date along with other secondary features, if any, of the watch,
as shown. It is again noted that, for user convenience, the timing of the
alerting signal is factory pre-set and, in general, is only adjustable by the
user to the extent of its dependence on the user settable current time and/or
date (at least embodying herein wherein such alert initiator means further
comprises factory presetter means for factory presetting, in a manner not
user-modifiable, the initiating of the at least one daily user alert).
[0054] Preferably, band 118 (at least embodying herein wherein such at
least one wearable element comprises at least one wristband assembly adapted to
assist wearable support of such at least one housing adjacent to at least one
arm portion of the at least one user) comprises clasp 130 adapted to permit
memento timepiece system 100 to be easily secured and removed from the wrist of
the user. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such
as user preference, intended use, etc., the use of other fastening
configurations, such as elastic, hook and loop, etc., may suffice.
[0055] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram, generally illustrating the internal
component arrangements of memento timepiece system 100, according to the
preferred embodiments of FIG. 1 through FIG. 3. Preferably, memento timepiece
system 100 comprises timekeeping movement 132 (at least embodying herein
timekeeper means for keeping current time-of-day data), protectively housed
within outer case 106. Preferably, timekeeping movement 132 is adapted to
maintain current time and date data, initiate the factory preset alarm signals
and control other secondary functions of the system, if any, as applicable.
Timekeeping movement 132 preferably comprises a quartz movement having an
integrated circuit controller 134, coupled to quartz resonator 138, as shown.
[0056] Preferably, power cell 136 is adapted to provide electrical power
to the timing circuit and is preferably electrically coupled to integrated
circuit controller 134 and power bus 160, as shown. Preferably, power cell 136
comprises a silver oxide type cell delivering about 1.5 volts. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference,
advances in technology, intended use, etc., the use of other cell types, such as
longer-lasting 3 volt lithium batteries, solar cells, etc., may suffice.
[0057] Preferably, integrated circuit controller 134 comprises a
programmable, board-mounted Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Integrated
Circuit (CMOS IC) device. Depending on the specifics of the application, the
CMOS device may comprise an analog, digital, or mixed signal semiconductor
design. Integrated circuit controller 134 may comprise at least one internal
logic processor that may comprise well-known logic structures such as registers
for arithmetic operation, address control registers, stack pointers, instruction
registers, instruction decoders, etc. Preferably, the internal logic processor
is electrically coupled with peripheral circuits by means of internal address
and data buses. Preferably, integrated circuit controller 134 further comprises
factory installed software programming adapted to operate the internal logic
processor. Preferably, data memory, more preferably comprising Random Access
Memory (RAM), is used by integrated circuit controller 134 to hold the current
time and timer data.
[0058] Preferably, integrated circuit controller
134 (at least embodying herein alert initiator means, coupled with such alerter
means and coupled with such timekeeper means, for initiating the at least one
daily user alert by such alerter means) comprises at least one commercially
available watch circuit adapted for use in battery operated wrist watches,
preferably using a 32 kHz quartz resonator as the timing element, preferably
modified to provide the alerting signals of the present invention, as described
below.
[0059] Preferably, quartz resonator 138 comprises a
tuning-fork-shaped quartz crystal (silicon dioxide) that is laser-trimmed or
precision lapped to vibrate at about 32,768 cycles per second. Standard quality
resonators of this type are gennerally warranted to have a long-term accuracy of
about 6 parts per million at 31 degrees Celsius, that is, memento timepiece
system 100 is expected to gain or lose less than one-half second per day while
operating at the body temperature of user 102. Preferably, quartz resonator 138
is electrically coupled to an oscillator driver circuit, within integrated
circuit controller 134, and to power bus 160, as shown. Preferably, the
oscillator driver circuit is adapted to maintain quartz resonator 138 at its
resonant frequency of 32.768 KHz.
[0060] Preferably, an accessibly
located frequency regulating trimmer 140 is used within the timing circuit to
permit small frequency adjustments to quartz resonator 138, typically within the
limits of about plus-or-minus-two seconds per day. In addition, integrated
circuit controller 134 preferably comprises an internal divider circuit adapted
to divide down the quartz frequency from 32.768 KHz to a usable one pulse per
second.
[0061] Analog display embodiments of memento timepiece system
100 preferably comprise mechanical sub-assembly 150, preferably containing a
stepping motor 142, gear train 144 and analog display 152, as shown. Preferably,
a stepping motor driver circuit, within integrated circuit controller 134, is
adapted to deliver timed voltage pulses (preferably one per second) to drive
stepping motor 142, as shown. Preferably, stepping motor 142 is mechanically
coupled to gear train 144 that operates analog display 152, as shown.
[0062] Preferably, user controllable functions of integrated circuit
controller 134 are accessible using external controls 128 (see also FIG. 3),
preferably comprising a bank of normally open momentary-contact switches, as
shown. Preferably, external controls 128 are electrically coupled to integrated
circuit controller 134 and power bus 160, as shown. Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in
technology, intended use, etc., other methods of user access to system function,
such as via the adjustment crown, may suffice.
[0063] Preferably,
integrated circuit controller 134 comprises first LCD data path 162 comprising
segment output pins for a muliplex LCD display (electronic display 124), as
shown. Additionally, integrated circuit controller 134 comprises second LCD
output path 164 preferably comprising common output pins for the muliplex LCD
display (electronic display 124), as shown.
[0064] Preferably,
timekeeping movement 132 comprises at least one audible alerting component 166,
as shown (at least embodying herein alerter means for providing at least one
daily user alert as at least one memento of the at least one event memorable to
the at least one user). Preferably, audible alerting component 166 comprises an
electronic chime or piezo buzzer, as shown. Preferably, audible alerting
component 166 is controlled by audible alert output pin 168 on integrated
circuit controller 134 (programmable to factory-pre-set at least one time of
initiation, preferably exactly one time of initiation, of audible alerting
component 166), as shown. Preferably, audible alert output pin 168 is
electrically coupled to switching transistor 170 preferably adapted to control
the delivery of power between audible alerting component 166, power cell 136 and
power bus 160, as shown.
[0065] In a similar preferred arrangement,
embodiments of timekeeping movement 132 may, under appropriate circumstances,
comprise at least one visual alerting component 172, as shown (at least
embodying herein alerter means for providing at least one daily user alert as at
least one memento of the at least one event memorable to the at least one user).
Preferably, visual alerting component 172 comprises an LED or similar lamp, as
shown. Preferably, visual alerting component 172 is controlled by visual alert
output pin 174 on integrated circuit controller 134, as shown. Preferably,
visual alert output pin 174 is electrically coupled to switching transistor 176
preferably adapted to control the delivery of power between visual alerting
component 172, power cell 136 and power bus 160, as shown. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
circuit design and component selection, other electronic configurations, such as
driving the alerting components directly from the IC controller, may suffice.
Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary
skill in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, such
as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, etc., the use of other
alerting devices, such as vibrators, digital text display, etc., may suffice.
[0066] Preferably, a user controllable switch 180 (at least embodying
herein user operable suppressor means for user operable suppression of the at
least one daily user alert) is provided between the power bus 160 and the
alerting devices to permit the user to suspend or suppress the operation of
audible alerting component 166 (at least embodying herein wherein said at least
one alerter comprises at least one audio signal) and/or visual alerting
component 172, (at least embodying herein wherein said at least one alerter
comprises at least one visual signal) as shown.
[0067] Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
user preference, intended use, etc., other system controls for integrated
circuit controller, such as reset pins, and/or test pins, may suffice.
Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as user preference, advances
in technology, intended use, etc., other electronic control arrangements, such
as single-chip devices, movements entirely mechanically operated, systems
comprising radio controlled setting functions, etc., may suffice.
[0068]
Watch movements suitable for modification and use with the present invention are
available through a number of commercial sources. For example, a single-chip
CMOS LSI model JT9692A-AS manufactured by Toshiba Electronics (www.Toshiba.com)
is modifiable for use with the present invention.
[0069] With continued
reference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 4, FIG. 5 is a flowchart diagram, generally
illustrating the novel operational aspects of memento timepiece system 100,
according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention. Preferred
operation of memento timepiece system 100 begins with the setting of the current
time (for example by user 102) as depicted in step 190. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering specifics of the
embodiment, intended use, etc., other steps of operating the memento timepiece
system, such as the setting of other system functions, such as, setting the
current date, setting the time zone, setting the secondary alarms, etc, may
suffice. Preferably, on completion of step 190, timekeeping movement 132 begins
continuous operation to keep current time data, as depicted in step 192.
Preferably, as described in FIG. 4 above, timekeeping movement 132 is adapted to
output the current time data to one or more displays (analog and/or digital), as
depicted in adjacent step 194.
[0070] Preferably, integrated circuit
controller 134 of timekeeping movement 132 comprises an internal logic processor
structured and arranged to receive and process the current time data, as
depicted in steps 196 and 198. Preferably, integrated circuit controller 134
comprises a program that directs integrated circuit controller 134 to receive
current time data from the timekeeping circuit as depicted in step 196.
Preferably, as depicted in step 198, the current time data is compared to
factory-preset alert signal times, preferably stored in program memory. If the
current time data equals at least one of the factory-preset alert times, the
program preferably executes step 200. If the current time data does not equal
one of the factory-preset alert times, the program preferably returns to step
196, and directs integrated circuit controller 134 to receive the next current
time data sample for comparison.
[0071] On executing step 200, the
program preferably initiates the user alert and executes step 202, as shown.
Next, as depicted in step 202, the program preferably checks for an extended
alert signal routine. For example, the program may comprise a preset alert
signal routine having a start chime followed by an end chime at the end of one
minute. If the factory-preset program comprises an extended alert signal
routine, the program preferably executes step 204, as shown. If the
factory-preset program does not comprise an extended alert signal routine, the
program preferably returns to step 196, as shown.
[0072] On reaching
step 204, the software program of integrated circuit controller 134 again
preferably samples time data from the timekeeping circuit to initiate a preset
wait period before repeating the user alert signal, as shown. On executing the
second user alert signal, the program preferably performs a check, using new
current time data, to determine if the factory-preset alert period is complete,
as depicted in step 206. If the factory-preset alert period is complete, the
program preferably returns to step 196. If the factory-preset alert period is
not complete, the program again executes step 204, as shown. Preferably, step
206 is repeated until the condition of step 206 is true and the program
preferably returns the system to step 196, as shown. Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as user
preference, timepiece configuration, intended use, etc., the inclusion of other
operational steps may suffice. For example, an additional programmed decision
step, to determine if the user has electronically enabled or suppressed the
factory-preset alert signal, may be included between step 198 and step 200. If
the additional decision step were included, the program would preferably return
to step 196 on determining that the user had suppressed the alert signal or
proceed to execute step 200 on determining that the user had enabled the alert
signal.
[0073] FIG. 6 through FIG. 13 depict various embodiments of the
present invention to illustrate the adaptability of the memento timepiece system
FIG. 6 shows a partial front view of memento timepiece system 300 according to
another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the memento
timepiece system is adaptable to provide a wide range of wearable options.
Preferably, memento timepiece system 300 comprises a pendant-style timepiece,
adaptable to be worn about the neck of the user. Preferably, memento timepiece
system 300 comprises an outer case 106 with ring assembly 302, adapted to be
suspended from lanyard 304 (a cord or chain), as shown (at least embodying
herein wherein such housing means comprises wearability means for assisting
wearability of such housing means adjacent at least one body portion of the at
least one user).
[0074] FIG. 7 shows a partial front view of memento
timepiece system 325 according to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, a second representative example of a
remembrance event is given. Preferably, memento timepiece system 325 has been
adapted to periodically assist the user in remembering specific aspects of the
9-11 events. Preferably, memento timepiece system 325 comprises memento indicia
120, in the present example memorializing members of the New York Fire
Department, by depicting the F.D.N.Y. Maltese Cross, on the face of dial 112, as
shown. Additionally, memento timepiece system 325 preferably comprises at least
one audible alert, factory preset to periodically signal a time of user
remembrance, preferably 9:11 a.m. or 9:11 p.m. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, chosen memorial event,
intended use, etc., other memento indicia, such as photographs, dimensional
carvings, words, phrases, illuminations, etc., may suffice.
[0075] FIG.
8 shows a front view of memento timepiece system 330 according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment of FIG. 8 further
illustrates preferred variations of the present invention. Preferably, memento
timepiece system 330 comprises an outer case 106 having pin 332, as shown.
Preferably, pin 332 is adapted to permit memento timepiece system 330 to be
removably attached, by pinning through an article of clothing worn by the user
(at least embodying herein wherein such housing means comprises wearability
means for assisting wearability of such housing means adjacent at least one body
portion of the at least one user).
[0076] FIG. 9 shows a perspective
view, illustrating memento timepiece system 335, according to another preferred
embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, memento timepiece system 335
comprises a digital desk clock, as shown. FIG. 9 further illustrates the
adaptability of the present invention to a wide range of personal items.
[0077] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view, illustrating a memento
timepiece system 340 comprising a portable communication device, according to
another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, memento
timepiece system 340 (at least embodying herein wherein said memento timepiece
system is housed in at least one portable communication device) is adapted to
comprise a portable communication device, having an internal timekeeping
function, such as the mobile phone shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in
technology, intended use, etc., other portable communication devices, such as
text pagers, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), etc., may suffice.
[0078] FIG. 11 shows a diagram, illustrating automatic time setting
functions of a radio-controlled memento timepiece system 350 adapted to receive
wireless time and frequency data 354 from remote broadcast site 352, according
to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0079] Remote
broadcast site 352 preferably comprises a National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST) radiobroadcast station, as shown. Presently, NIST has
established a network of radio stations to continuously broadcast time and
frequency information. The broadcast information includes time announcements,
standard time intervals, standard frequencies, UT1 time corrections and a Binary
Code Decimal (BCD) time code. Currently, the time is kept to within less than
one microsecond of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) at the transmitter site. For
most users in the United States, the accuracy of received time data is within
about 10 milliseconds ( 1/100 of a second). Currently, the 50 kW signal from the
NIST radio station WWVB located in Fort Collins, Colo. is the preferred
synchronization source for memento timepiece system 350 in the United States.
[0080] Preferably, memento timepiece system 350 comprises a programmable
quartz timekeeping movement similar to the movement described in FIG. 4. In
addition, memento timepiece system 350 preferably comprises an antenna, a radio
receiver and an internal program to receive and decode the radio signal received
from remote broadcast site 352, as shown. Preferably, the programmable quartz
timekeeping movement functions to time the alert signal functions of the present
invention and to advance the time display during intervals in which no valid
remote time data is being received by the system. Preferably, once memento
timepiece system 350 has received and decoded a signal from remote broadcast
site 352, timekeeping movement 132 is adapted to synchronize the internal time
data of memento timepiece system 350 with the time data received from the radio
signal of remote broadcast site 352 (at least embodying herein wherein such at
least one timekeeper is structured and arranged to receive wirelessly
time-of-day corrections, wherein more accurate time-of-day may be kept by such
at least one timekeeper). Radio controlled watch movements suitable for
modification and use with the present invention are available through a number
of commercial sources. For example, Junghans Ounghansusa.com) produces a line of
wristwatches having radio-controlled automatic setting features.
[0081]
FIG. 12 is a front view of memento timepiece system 400, in a wearable
configuration, solely adapted to provide daily remembrance alerts, according to
another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 12, memento timepiece system 400 comprises a personal item,
such as a pin, broche or paperweight, as shown. The outer housing 106 of memento
timepiece system 400 may preferably comprise memento indicia 120 in the form of
a symbol or shape, as shown. Preferably, housing 106 contains a programmable
quartz movement with a radio-controlled automatic time setting feature as
described in FIG. 1. Preferably, memento timepiece system 400 is factory
programmed to provide the user with an alert signal at the prescribed
remembrance times. Because memento timepiece system 400 is automatically set,
the system requires no external time displays, as shown. Preferably, memento
timepiece system 400 (embodying herein wherein said memento timepiece systems
comprises no external time displays) functions solely as an alert device to
assist the user in daily acts of remembrance.
[0082] FIG. 13 is a front
view of custom memento timepiece system 450 according to another preferred
embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, custom memento timepiece system
450 comprises wristwatch 452 having user specific remembrance features, as
shown. For illustrative purposes, the depicted embodiment has been uniquely
customized to assist a specific user in the remembrance of a wedding, as shown.
In the present example, custom memento timepiece system 450 is depicted with a
user supplied momento indicia 120 (a photographic image), user selected phrase
indicia 456 and user selected date indicia 458. Preferably, custom memento
timepiece system 450 may further comprise an audible alert, factory preset to
the user's specification. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering user preference, remembrance subject matter, memento
timepiece configuration, etc., the use of other remembrance aides, such as
visual illuminations, carvings, animations, colors, audible tones, etc., may
suffice.
[0083] FIG. 14 is a diagram, generally illustrating a business
method related to producing and distributing memento timepiece systems,
according to the preferred embodiments of FIG. 1 through FIG. 12. The preferred
method of manufacturing, distributing and selling the memento timepiece systems
is presented in the following steps.
[0084] In a first preferred step, a
designer or design team 502, associated with supplier 504, identifies a needs
within group 506 relating to assisting members of group 506 in acts of
remembrance. Preferably, the need will be associated with a person or event 508
memorable to group 506, as shown. Preferably, design team 502 selects imagery
relating to the person or event to produce appropriate memento indicia 120.
Preferably, design team 502 may work with members of the group to identify
memento indicia 120 having the greatest value and meaning to the group members.
Preferably, the design team 502 selects an appropriate alert signal and signal
time, as shown. Preferably, a final design is selected, and specifications 511
for the design are generated, as shown. Preferably, supplier 504 identifies
manufacturer 510 and negotiates contract 509 to batch produce the memento
timepiece system based on specifications 511, as shown. Preferably,
specifications 511 will include physical dimensions, materials requirements,
memento indicia, packaging materials, operational parameters, user instructions,
etc. for producing the system. Preferably, manufacturer 510 produces the memento
timepiece systems, based on the specification requirements. Preferably,
manufacturer 510 flashes or otherwise downloads all alert signal programming to
the memento timepiece systems and ships the finished units to product
distribution site 520, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, such as supplier preference, methods of
programming, supply logistics, etc., programming of the memento timepiece
systems by the supplier prior to customer delivery may suffice.
[0085]
Preferably, supplier 504 operates one or more Internet website servers 514
offering the memento timepiece systems for sale, as shown. Preferably, supplier
504 provides for acceptance of orders and payment from individuals of group 506
for purchase of the memento timepiece systems by means of the website. In a
final preferred step, supplier 504 provides for the shipping of ordered memento
timepiece systems to purchasing individuals of group 506, from product
distribution site 520, thus completing the transaction.
[0086] Thus, it
is seen that the above steps embody and provide herein a business method
relating to the daily observance of at least one event memorable to a plurality
of individuals, comprising the steps of: identifying such at least one event
memorable to such plurality of individuals; providing for the manufacture of at
least one memento timepiece system providing at least one daily reminder of such
at least one event memorable to such plurality of individuals; operating an
Internet website server offering to sell such at least one memento timepiece
system; providing for acceptance of orders and payment from at least one of such
plurality of individuals for such memento timepiece system; and providing for
shipping such ordered memento timepiece system to such at least one of such
plurality of individuals.
[0087] FIG. 15 shows a diagram, generally
illustrating a business method related to producing and distributing custom
memento timepiece systems, according to the preferred embodiments of FIG. 13. In
a second preferred business method, supplier 504 preferably operates one or more
Internet website servers 514 offering to provide custom memento timepiece
systems for production and sale, as shown. Preferably, Internet website server
514 comprises a website adapted for the acceptance of orders and purchase
transactions, from individuals 550, for custom designed memento timepiece
systems. Preferably, the website is structured to permit individuals 550 to
select and specify specific designs for producing a single unit or limited
quantities of the custom memento timepiece system. For example, individual 550
preferably accesses Internet website server 514 and selects, from customization
menu 552, a timepiece to be customized, memento indicia 120 and a daily alert
signal time. Individual 550 preferably completes the order by providing payment
and shipping information. In addition, the website is preferably adapted to
permit individual 550 to upload a photograph or other image file for use as
memento indicia 120 (as illustrated in FIG. 13). Preferably, supplier 504
arranges for production of the custom memento timepiece system, using the
customization data provided by individual 550. In a final preferred step,
supplier 504 provides for the shipping of the custom memento timepiece system to
individual 550, thus completing the transaction.
[0088] Thus, it is seen
that the above steps embody and provide herein a business method relating to the
daily observance of at least one event memorable to a plurality of individuals,
comprising the steps of: accepting at least one custom order for at least one
memento timepiece system to provide at least one daily reminder of at least one
event memorable to a specific individual; and providing for the manufacture of
such at least one custom memento timepiece system.
[0089] FIG. 16 shows
a diagram, generally illustrating a business method related to producing and
distributing memento timepiece systems, according to the preferred embodiments
of the present invention. The preferred method of manufacturing, distributing
and selling the memento timepiece systems is presented in the following steps.
[0090] Preferably, supplier 504 operates one or more Internet website
servers 514 offering the memento timepiece systems for sale to non-profit group
560, as shown. Preferably, supplier 504 provides for acceptance of orders and
payment from non-profit group 560 for purchase of the memento timepiece systems,
at a wholesale rate, essentially to assist non-profit group 560 to carry out a
revenue-producing resale of the memento timepiece systems. In a final preferred
step, supplier 504 provides for the shipping of ordered memento timepiece
systems to non-profit group 560, thus completing the purchase transaction.
Non-profit group 560 may then resale the memento timepiece systems to produce
fundraising profits. In the above-described method, non-profit group 560 may
preferably select the memento timepiece systems from the suppliers standard
stock or may order a quantity of custom memento timepiece systems.
[0091] Thus, it is seen that the above steps embody and provide herein a
business method relating to the daily observance of at least one event memorable
to members of at least one non-profit group, comprising the steps of:
identifying such at least one event memorable to such members of the at least
one non-profit group; providing for the manufacture of at least one memento
timepiece system providing at least one daily reminder of such at least one
event memorable to such members of the at least one non-profit group; operating
an Internet website server offering to sell such at least one memento timepiece
system to such members individuals of the at least one non-profit group;
providing for acceptance of orders and payment from at least one of such members
for such at least one memento timepiece system, at a wholesale rate, essentially
to assist such at least one non-profit group to carry out at least one revenue
producing resale of such at least one memento timepiece system; and providing
for shipping such ordered timepiece system to such members of such at least one
non-profit group.
[0092] Although applicant has described applicant's
preferred embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest
scope of this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and sizes
and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in
connection with the above specification.
[0093] Further, many other
advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art
from the above descriptions and the below claims.
* * * * *
|
|