Method and system for using screen names to customize interactive agents

• US 20030074410A1
• Filed: 08/23/2002
• Published: 04/17/2003
• Est. Priority Date: 08/22/2000
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing LLC (Microsoft Corporation)
• Original Assignee: Active Buddy, Inc.
• Inventors: Kay, Timothy, Hoffer, Robert
• Granted Patent: US 7,146,404 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 709/206
• CPC Class Codes: G06F 21/41 where a single sign-on provides access to a plurality of computers
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 51/04 Real-time or near real-time messaging, e.g. instant messaging [IM]
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 63/08 for authentication of entities cryptographic mechanisms or cryptographic arrangements for entity authentication H04L9/32
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 707/99933 Query processing, i.e. searching

Abstract

A method for using the screen names of users are used to appropriately tailor a service for the users. If the service is a restricted service, then the screen name is used as the basis for deciding whether access should be granted to ensure that access is granted to a limited set of users. Alternatively, if the service is comprised of several component sub-services, and some of those sub-services are restricted, then the screen name is used as the basis for deciding whether access should be granted to the relevant sub-service.

Claims

1. A method for interactively responding to queries from a user logged in to an instant messaging network, comprising the steps of:

logging a message processor in to the instant messaging network under a first screen-name, the user having the first screen-name as an authorized partner and being advised by the instant messaging network of the presence of the message processor;

receiving a query addressed to the first screen-name from the user via the instant messaging network in an instant messaging protocol;

parsing the message to extract the request;

evaluating the request in the message processor;

formulating an answer to the user'"'"'s query on the basis of the evaluated request;

generating an output message containing the answer; and

sending the output message to the user via the instant messaging network.