System and method for automatic generation of visual representations and links in a hierarchical messaging system
US6693652B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 26, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 17, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 30, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F16/4393
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A multimedia message system automatically generates visual representations (thumbnails) of message or media objects and references (links) between media objects; nests messages within themselves; and automatically updates generated thumbnails. An object, including a thumbnail image of the object's contents and a link to the original content, is created in response to simple user inputs or commands. An image of the object is generated whether the object be a web page, a multimedia message, a hypertext link, a video clip, or a document. A link or reference to the original object from which the image was formed is also generated. The system retrieves and displays information referenced by an object and shown by the thumbnail image corresponding to the object. The system also automatically updates the thumbnail image(s) representing an object any-time the underlying object or information from which the image was generated has been modified.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.