System, method and apparatus for connecting users in an online computer system based on their relationships within social networks
US7069308B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 16, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jun 27, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 16, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S707/99935
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for calculating, displaying and acting upon relationships in a social network is described. A computer system collects descriptive data about various individuals and allows those individuals to indicate other individuals with whom they have a personal relationship. The descriptive data and the relationship data are integrated and processed to reveal the series of social relationships connecting any two individuals within a social network. The pathways connecting any two individuals can be displayed. Further, the social network itself can be displayed to any number of degrees of separation. A user of the system can determine the optimal relationship path (i.e., contact pathway) to reach desired individuals. A communications tool allows individuals in the system to be introduced (or introduce themselves) and initiate direct communication.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.