The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.

The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.

Date of Patent:
Feb. 01, 2011

Filed:

Dec. 22, 2008
Applicants:

Dustin C. Kirkland, Austin, TX (US);

Richard J. Mccarty, Austin, TX (US);

Herman Rodriguez, Austin, TX (US);

Inventors:

Dustin C. Kirkland, Austin, TX (US);

Richard J. McCarty, Austin, TX (US);

Herman Rodriguez, Austin, TX (US);

Attorneys:
Primary Examiner:
Int. Cl.
CPC ...
G06F 15/16 (2006.01);
U.S. Cl.
CPC ...
Abstract

A method, apparatus, and computer instructions for filtering and prioritizing instant messaging threaded conversations in an instant messaging system based on thread content. The instant messaging client analyzes an incoming message to determine the thread subject. Based on the thread subject analysis, the client determines the priority level associated with the incoming message. The message is then delivered and displayed to the recipient according to the priority level. The present invention also allows a participant initiating a thread of conversation to override filter settings on a messaging client. The authority to override settings may be predicated on an external list, such as a corporate telephone directory. As a result, the participant, having some authority or rights to override the recipient's instant messaging settings, may be allowed to conduct a messaging session with the recipient.


Find Patent Forward Citations

Loading…