{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854393","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854393","title":"Partial information throttle based on compliance with an agreement","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2016-07-20T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04W","G06F","G06F","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04W","H04W","H04W","H04W"],"num_claims":27,"abstract":"Partially reduces performance or features of a user's electronic device if the user does not comply with an agreement. An agreement may specify tasks or activities to be performed, such as homework or chores, or required results such as grades. Partial throttling of the device when the user is not in compliance with the agreement may include for example disabling a subset of the apps or services on the device, slowing down the device or selected applications, denying access to selected information sources, limiting audio volume or display resolution, or limiting time on activities such as web browsing. The device may remain usable, but with reduced features or performance. Throttling actions may also be based on location, schedule, or environmental conditions. The system may reward compliance with the agreement by increasing performance, by re-enabling previously disabled applications, or by providing direct rewards such as money or credits."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement patent (US-9854393) introduces a system that partially restricts access to features and applications on an electronic device based on a user's adherence to a predefined agreement. This agreement may specify tasks, activities, or required results, such as completing homework, chores, or achieving certain grades. The core innovation lies in linking device functionality to real-world responsibilities, creating a powerful incentive for users to comply with agreed-upon terms. This approach addresses the growing problem of digital distraction and promotes responsible device usage. \n\nThe key technical approach involves a compliance monitoring module that tracks user progress, a throttling engine that adjusts device functionality, and a reward mechanism that provides positive reinforcement. The system can be customized to suit individual needs, with throttling actions based on location, schedule, or environmental conditions. This flexibility allows for a highly personalized user experience. \n\nThe business value of this technology lies in its potential to improve productivity, enhance learning outcomes, and promote healthier digital habits. Applications range from education and parental control to workplace productivity and personal development. The market opportunity is significant, as the demand for effective device management solutions continues to grow. By providing a structured and incentivized approach to device usage, this technology offers a compelling value proposition for users, educators, and businesses alike. \n\nThis innovation has the potential to disrupt the traditional device management landscape by offering a more nuanced and engaging approach. The system's ability to adapt to individual needs and provide real-time feedback makes it a valuable tool for anyone seeking to improve their performance and achieve their goals. The Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement offers a promising solution, and its potential impact on the digital landscape is significant.","layman_explanation":"The Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement is a system designed to help people manage their digital device usage by linking access to device features with the completion of specific tasks or agreements. It's a way to incentivize responsible behavior and promote better habits in the digital world. \n\n**1. What Problem Does This Solve?**\nIn today's world, we're constantly bombarded with distractions from our phones, tablets, and computers. This can make it difficult to focus on important tasks like work, school, or personal goals. Existing solutions, such as simply limiting screen time or blocking certain apps, often feel restrictive and can lead to frustration. The Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement offers a more balanced approach by rewarding positive behavior instead of just punishing unwanted behavior. \n\n**2. How Does It Work?**\nImagine a thermostat that controls the temperature in your house. This system works similarly, but instead of temperature, it controls access to features on your electronic devices. The system works by setting up an agreement or a set of tasks that need to be completed. For example, a parent might set an agreement that their child needs to finish their homework before they can access social media apps. Once the task is completed and verified, the system unlocks the agreed-upon features. It's like earning rewards for good behavior, similar to a loyalty program but for your digital life. \n\n**3. Why Does This Matter?**\nThe potential market impact is significant. It can improve productivity in the workplace by encouraging employees to focus on their tasks before indulging in distractions. In education, it can help students stay on track with their studies and develop responsible digital habits. For parents, it provides a tool to manage their children's screen time in a positive and constructive way. The competitive advantage lies in its ability to personalize the experience and provide positive reinforcement, making it more effective than traditional methods. \n\n**4. What's Next?**\nFuture applications could include integrating with wearable devices to track physical activity and reward healthy habits. The market adoption timeline will depend on the development of user-friendly interfaces and the integration with popular device platforms. Investment implications are positive, as the demand for digital wellness solutions continues to grow.","technical_analysis":"The Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement patent (US-9854393) details a system designed to manage electronic device usage based on user compliance with predefined agreements. The technical architecture comprises three primary modules: the Compliance Monitoring Module, the Throttling Engine, and the Reward Mechanism. The Compliance Monitoring Module continuously tracks user activity and compares it against the agreed-upon tasks or conditions. This can involve monitoring application usage, location data, calendar entries, and even environmental sensor data. Data privacy is a key consideration, necessitating secure data handling and user consent mechanisms. \n\nThe Throttling Engine is responsible for adjusting device functionality based on the compliance status reported by the monitoring module. This can involve disabling specific applications, reducing processing speed, limiting network bandwidth, or restricting access to certain content. The throttling actions are highly configurable, allowing for fine-grained control over device behavior. The system can also implement progressive throttling, gradually reducing functionality as compliance decreases. \n\nThe Reward Mechanism provides positive reinforcement for compliance. This can involve re-enabling previously disabled applications, increasing device performance, or providing access to premium content. The reward system is designed to motivate users and encourage adherence to the agreed-upon tasks. The system may also incorporate gamification elements, such as badges and leaderboards, to further enhance engagement. \n\nImplementation details involve a combination of software and hardware components. The compliance monitoring module can be implemented as a background service on the device, while the throttling engine may require access to system-level APIs. The reward mechanism can be integrated with existing application stores or content delivery platforms. Performance characteristics are critical, as the system must operate efficiently without significantly impacting device battery life or user experience. Integration patterns involve seamless communication between the various modules and secure data exchange with cloud-based services. Code-level implications include careful attention to resource management, error handling, and security vulnerabilities. This technology offers a framework for a more structured and incentivized approach to digital engagement, offering benefits across various sectors. Learn more about the innovative approach of the Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement system here: https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854393.","business_analysis":"The Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement patent (US-9854393) presents a significant market opportunity within the device management and digital wellness sectors. The core value proposition lies in its ability to incentivize responsible device usage by linking functionality to real-world tasks and achievements. This technology addresses a growing need for effective solutions to combat digital distraction, improve productivity, and promote healthier digital habits. The market opportunity size is substantial, encompassing education, parental control, workplace productivity, and personal development. \n\nFrom a competitive standpoint, this technology offers several key advantages. Traditional device management solutions often rely on strict restrictions or limited access, which can be ineffective and create resentment among users. The Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement offers a more nuanced and engaging approach, providing positive reinforcement for compliance and allowing for personalized settings. This differentiation positions the technology as a more attractive and effective solution. \n\nThe revenue potential is diverse, encompassing licensing fees, subscription models, and value-added services. Licensing the technology to device manufacturers, software developers, and educational institutions can generate significant revenue streams. Subscription models can provide ongoing access to premium features and support. Value-added services, such as personalized coaching and gamified challenges, can further enhance the user experience and generate additional revenue. \n\nStrategic positioning involves targeting key market segments and building strong partnerships. The education sector is a prime target, with schools and universities seeking innovative solutions to improve student engagement and academic performance. Parental control is another key market, with parents looking for effective ways to manage their children's screen time and promote responsible device usage. Workplace productivity is also a promising area, with businesses seeking to improve employee focus and reduce digital distractions. This technology offers a framework for a more structured and incentivized approach to digital engagement, offering benefits across various sectors. Learn more about the innovative approach of the Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement system here: https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854393.","faqs":null,"topics":["device management","compliance","incentive","productivity","digital wellness"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Partial Information Throttle - Compliance Based Device Management","description":"Discover how Partial Information Throttle Based on Compliance with an Agreement incentivizes productivity. Full patent analysis, claims, and applications.","keywords":["device management","compliance","incentive","productivity","digital wellness","patent","patent US-9854393"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854393","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854393","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Partial information throttle based on compliance with an agreement\" (US-9854393). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854393","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854393","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854393","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T01:04:14.773Z"}