Networking roundtable controller, system and method and networking engine

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for matching users in a networking roundtable, preferably circular, wherein the networking roundtable has at least one first seat with a seat sensor, the first seat is preferably fixed in a position with respect to a plurality of second seats, wherein the plurality of second seats is movable with respect to the first seat, and wherein each of the second seats has a seat sensor, a sensor associated with a seat defines a seat sensor, the method including the steps of: d) activating the seat sensors for detecting the presence of uses; e) determining if seat sensors are revealing the presence of a first user on the first seat and at least a second user on one of the second seats of said plurality; f) moving the plurality of second seats for bringing one of the second seats having the seat sensor revealing the presence of a second user in a predetermined coupling zone around the first seat for enabling the match between the first and the second user.

Description

[0001] NETWORKING ROUNDTABLE CONTROLLER, SYSTEM AND METHOD AND NETWORKING ENGINE

[0002] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0003] This application is a PCT application claiming priority to US provisional application no.

[0004] 63 / 734,872 filed 12 / 17 / 2024 and 63 / 713,605, filed 10 / 30 / 2024 and, for the purposes of the US. is a Continuation-in-part application of divisional application serial no. 18 / 654,059 filed on May 3rd, 2024 which is a national stage of PCT application no. PCT / US2018 / 039408 filed 26 June 2018 claiming the benefit of U. S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 524,658, filed 26 June 2017, U. S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 528,464, filed 4 July 2017, U. S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 628,801, filed February 9, 2918, U. S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 668,318, filed May 8, 2018, and U. S. Provisional Applicant No.

[0005] 62 / 671,441 filed May 15th, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated by reference hereto and relied upon, in particular, the disclosure of PCT / US2018 / 039408.

[0006] Background of the Invention

[0007] This invention relates to means of making contact with other individuals (sometimes herein called “users” or “members”) using software, typically a social media networking system such as Facebook™ or an online community service system, and / or dedicated hardware. In addition, the invention relates to systems and methods for enabling connection with one or more members having similar preferences by providing a more efficient and effective means of making connections, as well as creating communities.

[0008] Social networking sites are varied. They can incorporate a range of new information and communication tools, operating on desktops and on laptops, on mobile devices such as tablet computers and smartphones. They may feature digital photo / video / sharing and "web fogging" diary entries online (blogging). Online community services are sometimes considered social-network services, though in a broader sense, a social-network service usually provides an individual-centered service whereas online community services are group-centered. Defined as "websites that facilitate the building of a network of contacts in order to exchange various types of content online," social networking sites provide a space for interaction io continue beyond in person interactions. These computer mediated interactions link members of various networks and may help to both maintain and develop new social ties. Social networking sites allow users to share ideas, digital photos and videos, posts, and to inform others about online or real-world activities and events with people in their network. While in-person social networking - folk dancing, community social events and gathering in a village market to talk about, events - has existed since the earliest development of towns, the Web enables people to connect with others who live in different locations, ranging from across a city to across the world. Depending on the social media platform, members may be able to contact any other member. In other cases, members can contact anyone they have a connection to, and subsequently anyone that contact has a connection to, and so on. The success of social networking services can be seen in their dominance in society today, with Facebook having a massive 2.13 billion active monthly users and an average of 1.4 billion daily active users in 2017. Linkedln™, a career-oriented social-networking service, generally requires that a member personally know another member in real life before they contact them online. Some sendees require members to have a preexisting connection to contact other members. Such services and systems have provided users with an unprecedented way of making contacts. However, such systems provide little or nothing to facilitate face-to-face contact or to make such contact more likely to create lasting relationships.

[0009] Hardware used in such social networking has typically been computer devices, tables and chairs, and dance floors. Seating exists which facilitates contact with others. Round tables exist which place persons opposite to each other in a facing relationship. Lazy Susans exist for placement at the center of the table to facilitate the selection of food or condiment items for use on food. However, once seated, changing the seating relationship requires getting up, convincing some else to get. up and to change seats. This creates an awkward and comfortable and sometimes impolite situation which is to be avoided to conform to accepted social etiquette.

[0010] US Patent No.9,830,562, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference thereto and relied upon, describes a system and method for mobile social networking within a target area The method includes receiving a social networking profile within a target area. The social networking profile has at least one user preference. The method also includes broadcasting the social networking profile to one or more members of the social network within the target area, The method further includes searching within the target area for the one or more members having a preference that is the same or similar to the at least one user preference. The system and method additionally include enabling contact with the one or more members having the same or similar user preference. This system and method do not, however, create communities of similar or complementary interests or provide any specific means of connecting with others face to face. Neither does it provide a means of communicating what two engaging users may share in common during the engagement,

[0011] Speed dating or speed networking is known, in which groups of males or females, encoded with numbers, nicknames or handles, typically numbering up to ten, sit around a conventional table with members of one interest, e.g., the opposite sex, facing them, and, with the help of a moderator, are asked to begin conversations limited to 3 to 8 minutes. After this period, they are asked by the moderator to move from one seat to another so as to face another participant and to begin another conversation of limited time, 'Fhey are typically forbidden from sharing their contact information but instead, may share a handle, or number. After the event, the participants indicate which persons they would like to meet again. Such face-to-face contact is significantly more efficient than online dating or online networking. According to toe New York Times, participants in speed dating, for example, experience an average of 2 in 10 or 3 in 10 matches whereas online dating participants only find a compatible match with I in 100 or fewer of the profiles they study. As reported by the BBC, in the Science of Love, it takes only between 90 seconds and 4 minutes of face-to-face interaction to determine attraction, which gives speed dating a significant advantage over online dating. Nevertheless, the moderator must deal with persons who are shy, who are monopolizing or pushy, in an attempt to provide an egalitarian opportunity of contact between the participants. In addition, the participants must be coaxed to move from one seat, to another. Where human nature gets involved, some participants monopolize others and others are slow to change seats and make another contact.

[0012] As mentioned above, other forms of human contact methods exist. Traditionally, folk dancing to songs of a set time was a means used for people to make face-to-face contact, even short conversation, with one another in an egalitarian environment, in which roughly equal time is spent with each individual during toe course of the song. Today, rather than engaging in these useful networking activities, the music is loud, the room is dark and the dancing style is free, not conducive to equal itarian contact and impossible to carry on any kind of a conversation.

[0013] In addition, traditionally, people tended to live and work in the same location, not wandering too far from home when travelling. This was conducive to the development of more intimate relationships, where a mutual friend or family member who knows two persons very wall was able to put them in contact while mentioning at least one point that they had in common. Today, work and home is geographically distant from one another. Mutual friends are rare, particularly mutual friends that can put persons in contact with the aid of a mention of a point of common interest. Still further, church attendance is generally down, thereby reducing a reliable source c-f mutual friends that can put people together.

[0014] What is needed is a system or method that overcomes these drawbacks of modern society. Specially, what is needed is a system and method that fills our modem world’s void left by the fading practice of traditional folk dance. Still further, what is needed is a system and method that makes speed dating or speed networking more efficient and less dependent on the human factor.

[0015] Summary of the Invention

[0016] An online social networking system and method of the invention uses software and / or dedicated hardware tools to bring persons sharing common Interests into engagement, preferably face to face. The online social networking system includes personal computing devices connected in a network comprising a server or servers hosting dedicated control software of which method steps are executed by a processor so as to access a database of user profile data of users in order to operate the said social networking system, The system, during a registration step, provides the users an opt-in, permission and / or preferences selection device such as a drop-down menu, enabling users to provide permission

[0017] (a) to have a recommendation contact engine compare and share their user data such as user characteristics and preferences with those of other users for which matches on the compared and sharable user data are determined, and

[0018] (b) based on matching criteria, to be contacted via the recommendation contact engine.

[0019] The system is adapted to contact users identified by the recommendation contact engine as having common interests and invite such users to a meeting. The system is further adapted to propose times and / or locations for such suggested meetings, and to register user-indicated-suitable-dates for such meeting. Once an engagement such as a virtual or physical face-to-face meeting between two recommended users is commenced, the system is adapted to provide engaging users with a user communication device such as a display adapted to indicate to the users what the matching user characteristics are, thereby facilitating identification of common interests between users during an engagement between users.

[0020] In one aspect, a system is used which includes disposition devices such as seating or standing supports and / or counter / tabie arrangements. The system is adapted to dispose at least three persons in which a guiding system guides relative movement of at least one person of the at least three persons to place the at least one person so as to successively face one of the at least two remaining persons for a desired time period / typically 3 to 8 m utcs^. I he system facilitates networking in a manner which reduces awkward situations and provides discipline and efficiency in facilitating contact with a plurality of individuals. A controller controls the disposition for improved networking, including considering occupancy on the disposition devices. In the present application it is also disclosed a computer-implemented method for matching users in a networking roundtable. A related networking roundtable is disclosed too.

[0021] In another aspect, the system is an app operating on a smartphone which may or may not use the seating system of the invention. In addition, the invention creates communities and provides effective and efficient means of connecting with others.

[0022] An object of the invention is to facilitate networking in a manner which reduces awkward situations and provides discipline and efficiency io facilitating contact with a plurality of individual.

[0023] An object of the invention is to fill the technological gap which exists between, for example, currently known social enterprises such as STARBUCKS® and FACEBOOK®.

[0024] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the system of the invention.

[0026] FIG. IB is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1A. FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the rack and pinion system of the invention.

[0027] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the rack and pinion system of the invention.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the system of the invention.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a flow chan of a method of the invention.

[0030] FIG. SA is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the invention.

[0031] FIG. SB is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the invention of FIG. SA.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a top view of a variation of the alternate embodiment of FIG. SA, in which more fixed seating is provided.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the central translation device having privacy baffles.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a simple embodiment of the invention in which a couch is disposed on the translating platform,

[0035] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an even simpler embodiment, in which mobile seating is disposed on the translating platform.

[0036] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a large ring-shaped arrangement of the invention having a central bar or a conductor seating arrangement within the translatable disposition device of the invention.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an arrangement of the invention in which no seating is displaced, but rather, a guiding hoop guides persons to move from one place to another on foot.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a controller of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 13 is a flow chart of an app which mimics the invention in the virtual world.

[0040] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the simplest possible variant of the invention, in which a single central seat, preferably with privacy baffles, is turned to successively or according to commands of the controller, dispose that person before other persons in fixed disposition devices.

[0041] FIG. IS is a cross-sectional view of a weight sensor arrangement used in the instant invention. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention, similar to that disclosed in FIG. 11, but using a wireless proximity sensor between a base unit and a mobile unit that sounds an alarm when the distance between the same exceeds a certain distance, encouraging participants to respect their rendezvous while not physically moving any participants.

[0042] FIG. 17 A is a cross-sectional view of a guard of the invention.

[0043] FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of an alternate guard of the invention.

[0044] FIG. 18 is a schematic view of yet another embodiment of the invention using a rotating platform supporting rotating chairs. FIG. 19 is a schematic view of still another embodiment of the invention using rotating chairs disposed in an array.

[0045] FIG. 20 is an example of an array of the rotating chairs of the invention.

[0046] FIG. 21 is another example of an array, showing sequential matches.

[0047] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a rotating chair of the invention with a sound gathering bonnet. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.

[0048] FIG. 24 is an exploded view of the seat of FIG. 19.

[0049] FIG. 25 is a graphical representation of the building up of ail possible unique connections using the hardware of the invention.

[0050] FIG. 26 is a graphical representation of the seat changes believed required in order to maximize '.he number of contacts in three stages.

[0051] FIG. 27 is a schematic view of the environment in which the system of the invention operating. FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a setup of the invention.

[0052] FIG. 29A is a schematic view of a transceiver of the invention.

[0053] FIG. 29B is a block diagram of the transceiver of FIG. 29A.

[0054] FIG. 38 is a plan view of an item of the invention.

[0055] FIG. 31 is a schematic view of database inputs and keys to the invention.

[0056] FIG, 32 is a graphical representation of the community-making engine of the invention.

[0057] FIG. 33 is a sponsor module of the invention.

[0058] FIGS. 34A-34B are interfaces of the recommendation contact engine of the invention.

[0059] FIGS. 35A-. B are schematic views of two different configurations of use of the method for matching users in a networking roundtable according to the invention,

[0060] FIGS. 36A-I are schematic views of different steps of a preferred algorithm used for prioritizing the matches in a method for matching users according to the invention.

[0061] FIGS.37 -G are different schematic views of a preferred embodiment of a networking roundtable according to the invention.

[0062] FIGs. 38A and 38E are perspective views of another embodiment of the roundtable of the invention, wherein seats present tables.

[0063] FIGs. 38B, 38C and 38D are, respectively, a front view, an upper view and a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 3SA.

[0064] FIG.39A and 39E are perspecti e views of another embodiment of the roundtable of the invention, wherein seats do not present tables. FIGs. 398, 39C and 3913 are, respectively, a front view, an upper view and a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 39 A.

[0065] FIG. 40A and 40E are perspective views of another embodiment of the roundtable of the invention, wheresn oniv a pluraiity or second seats is present. The plurality or second seats presents a foldabsc table for each seat.

[0066] FIGs. 40B, 40C and 40D are, respectively, a front view, an upper view and a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 48A.

[0067] FIG. 41 A and 41E are perspective views of another embodiment of the roundtable of the invention, wherein only a plurality of second seats is present, and seats are without tables.

[0068] FIGs. 41B, 41C and 41D are, respectively, a front view, an upper view and a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 41 A.

[0069] FIG. 42A and 42E are perspective views of another embodiment of the roundtable of the invention, with a plurality of first and second seats, wherein seats present tables and sound barriers. Advantageously sound barriers are squared.

[0070] FIGs. 42B, 42C and 42D are, respectively, a front view, an upper view and a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 42 A.

[0071] FIG. 43A and 43E are perspective views of another embodiment of the roundtable of the invention, with a plurality of second seats, wherein seats present tables and sound barriers. Advantageously sound barriers are squared.

[0072] FIGs. 4311, 43C and 430 are. respectively, a tront vsew, an upper view and a bottom view or the embodiment of FIG. 43.

[0073] FIGs. 44A and 44H are perspective views of a seat of the roundtable of the invention, wherein the seat presents a table.

[0074] FIG, 44B is an axonometric view of a seat of the roundtable of FIG. 44A.

[0075] FIGs. 44C, 44D, 44E, 44F and 44G are, respectively, an upper view, a rear view, a bottom view, and two different side views of the embodiment of FIG. 44A.

[0076] FIGs. 45A and 4SFI are perspective views of another seat of the roundtable of the invention, wherein the seat does not present a table.

[0077] FIG. 45B is an axonometric view of a seat of the roundtable of FIG. 45 A.

[0078] FIGs. 45C, 45D, 45E, 45F and 45G are, respectively, an upper view, a rear view, a bottom view, and two different side views of the embodiment of FIG. 45A.

[0079] FIGs. 46A and 46H are perspective views of another seat of the roundtable of the invention, wherein the seat presents a table and a sound barrier. IG. 468 is an axonometric view of a seat of the roundtable of FIG, 46A.

[0080] FIGs. 46C, 46D, 46E, 46F and 46G are, respectively, an upper view, a rear view, a bottom view, and two different side views of the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0081] FIGs. 47A and 47H are perspective views of another seat of the roundtable of the invention, wherein the seat presents a sound barrier.

[0082] FIG. 478 is an axonometric view of a seat of the roundtable of FIG. 47 A.

[0083] FIGs. 47C, 47D, 47E, 47F and 47G are, respectively, an upper view, a rear view, a bottom view, and two different side views of the embodiment of FIG. 47.

[0084] FIG. 4§ is a flow chart of an alternate embodiment adapted io match the profiles of users, FIG, 49 is a flow chart of the step of one embodiment of the app of the invention.

[0085] FIG. SOA is a first perspective view of an alternate embodiment, of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood.

[0086] FIG, SOB is a front view of an alternate embodiment of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood.

[0087] FIG, 50C is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood.

[0088] FIG. SOD is a rear view of an alternate embodiment of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood.

[0089] FIG. 50E is a bottom view of an alternate embodiment of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood.

[0090] FIG. 50F is a right side view of an alternate embodiment of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood.

[0091] FIG. 50G is a left side view of an alternate embodiment of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood

[0092] FIG. 50M is an alternate perspective view of the alternate embodiment of the seat of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood.

[0093] FIG. 51 A is a first perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a seat cluster of the invention having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood on each seat.

[0094] FIG. 518 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of a seat cluster of the invention each seat having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood on each seat.

[0095] FIG, SIC is a top view of an alternate embodiment of a seat cluster of the invention each seat having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood on each seat. FIG. 511) is a bottom view of an alternate embodiment of a seat, cluster of the invention each seat having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood on each seat FIG. 51E is a second perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a seat cluster of the invention each seat having an optionally parabolic sound-directing and exterior noise cancelling hood on each seat.

[0096] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment in the form of transporter platform of the invention.

[0097] These skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the Figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, dimensions may be exaggerated relative to other elements io help improve understanding of the invention and its embodiments. Furthermore, when the terms 'first', 'second', and the like are used herein, their use is intended for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. Moreover, relative terms like 'front', ’back', 'top1and 'bottom', and the like in the Description and / or in the claims are not necessarily used for describing exclusive relative position. Those skilled in the art will therefore understand that such terms may be interchangeable with other terms, and that the embodiments described herein are capable of operating in other orientations than those explicitly illustrated or otherwise described.

[0098] Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment

[0099] The following description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way as they arc exemplary in nature, serving to describe the best mode of the invention known to the inventor as of the filing date hereof. Consequently, changes may be made in the arrangement and / or function of any of the elements described in the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It should be appreciated that the particular implementations shown and herein described are representative of the invention and its best mode and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way.

[0100] Referring now to FIGs. 1 and IB, a disposition system 10 includes disposition devices 12 such as seating or standing supports 14 and / or counter / table arrangements 16. The system 10 is adapted to dispose at least three persons 20. In this embodiment, up to 16 unique pairings can be made without participants changing scats.

[0101] In this system 10, a guiding system 22 guides relative movement of at least one person 24 of the at least three persons 22 to place the at least one person 24 so as to successively face one 26 of the at least two remaining persons for a desired time period. The control system of the invention then applies an algorithm which considers the sensed inputs and then controls movement of the device to divide the face-to-face contact time between the seated individuals: in an equitable manner. For example, when one is sensed in the middle rotating seats, and two or more on the outer ring of seats, the system will divide the face time of the person on the central seating between those sensed as present on the outer seating. If two are on the middle rotating seats, and one in a seat of the outside fixed seats, the system brings each of the two in the middle altematingly to the one on the outside fixed seat. The typical contact period allowed for each interaction is 8 minutes. However, where only one is located on the rotating seat and one on the fixed seats, these two persons are brought face to face and may be allowed to remain engaged in conversation until someone else joins by siting in a seat of the system. Consequently, the algorithm uses presence inputs transmitted to the processor by presence sensors or by a user-to-seat registration process to select a suitable engagement routine, in one embodiment, inside the seat, a pressure sensor such as a silicone-filled "bladder", and an electronic control unit (ECU) is operably disposed. When someone sits on the seat, the pressure sensor signals the occupant’s weight to the ECU. The ECU then sends that, data to the processor. Alternatively, a strain gauge on a cord or strap may be used to sense presence and / or weight, or, for that matter, a unique strain measurement that is relatively unique to each user sitting in a seat. Still further, facial scanning by a scanner whose location in the disposition system is known may be used to identify the presence of the user. Based on that information gathered from all seals, the system 10 can choose an appropriate movement algorithm. Where the system is to he used for speed networking or speed dating, then the type of engagement is selected by the purveyors of the system or organizers of the speed dating event (e.g. heterosexual, friendship, etc.), if a heterosexual speed dating engagement, the system has means for indicating where persons of a particular sex are to be seated, in order to create the face-to-face experience (male to female, for example) desired.

[0102] Note that the system 10 (and the other embodiments herein described) is functional as conventional lounge seating even when the system is not in operation (i.e., is not moving).

[0103] Referring now to FIG. 2A, in an embodiment, the guiding system 22 is activated by a motor 30, preferably an electric gear motor with a pinion 32 which reacts against a rack 34, 34’ located on a component against which relative motion is to be imparted. However, the system may simply be moved by hand, for example by a moderator rotating a wheel which activates the gear engaging the rack,

[0104] As depicted in FIG. 2B, the rack 34’ may be made up of a tube 35 having one side 36 removed through which bolts 40 extend, and which are placed along the entire length of the lube, such bolts acting as teeth in which the pinion gear 32 engages.

[0105] Of course, relative movement of one person with respect to another may he imparted by motors which activate wheels directly, the wheels contacting the ground which when combined with friction, imparts motion to the platform, thereby doing away with the need for the rack and pinion system. Still further, an axially located motor may be used with swivel casters on the outermost periphery of the platform also eliminates the need for a rack and pinion system.

[0106] The guiding system 22 is advantageously a rolling table 42 in the form of a circular ring, which engages a ringed track 44 or rack 34, 34’, along which an adjacent and abutting circular table system 46 is guided along a circular path. Advantageously, the circular table system 46 is a circular ring which encloses an inner area 50, in which a bar 52 or and / or a conductor 54 (someone responsible for controlling the movement of the system) may be disposed, with a suitable bar providing a ready storage space within arm’s reach. Two steps 53, 55 are placed in-line with one another after each index movement from one position to another, in the drawing, every 90 degrees of movement. Handrails 57 provide for secure movement to and from the inside area 50 from the outside area 60. A safety switch mounted on the device such that it is within the reach of each participant optionally prevents movement of the guiding system when persons leave the system or are being disposed and, for whatever reason, a participant wishes for motion to stop. The location of the seated persons is sensed with optics, lasers, capacitive contact sensors, resistance sensors, proximity sensors or strain gauge / weight sensors, 3-D scanning, ot by a user-to-seat registration process for example. The sensing of a person in an area of potential danger initiates the safety switch and overrides the system’s command to initiate motion. In addition, guards (see FIGs. 17.4 and I7B), made for example of rubber, preferably light weight rubber such as foam rubber (closed cell) may be used. The guards S700, 1700’ (a sort of skirt) rest on the floor 1792 but has a flange portion 1703 which extends above and over the lip 1704 of the rotating platform I 706, thereby preventing entry of toes, shoe tips, fingers, or loose items under the device. One embodiment 1700’ includes a chute 1710 that allows items 1712 that may enter into the small space between the flange 1703 and the lip 1704 to slide away from the underside of tire device, outward, in order to be easily retrieved through an aperture 1705 for example.

[0107] Clearly, the system is designed to minimize possible snag or pinch points in the system.

[0108] A challenge of the invention is providing a design that minimizes these possible snag or pinch points in the system. Consequently, all surfaces which move, and which find themselves close to the ground, are layered with thick foam rubber 59 of a wide depth so as to dispose the wheels sufficiently distant from feet or hands. The invention preferably incorporates a slip clutch which slips when too much resistance is met with, to prevent movement when st jam occurs.

[0109] The guards 1790, 1700’ are light weight and so may be lifted up so as to access the underside of the device for cleaning or object recovery'.

[0110] Of course, any number of persons may be accommodated with the system of the invention with an increase of size.

[0111] Referring now to FIG.3, in an alternate embodiment, the guiding system 22 is a conveyor arrangement 22’, enabling the disposition system to take on essentially any form. Using this system, the disposition devices are translated from one place to another, making contacts wish other participants along its path. Further, with all embodiments herein described, the inner area or the outer area may move, while the other remains stationary, or both may move relative so one another, it is critical with, the disclosed invention that at least one person be transported so as to be placed before another person, and then after a time period, before still another person. Preferably, ah persons participating have a person disposed before them with whom they may communicate, socialize, or interview.

[0112] The invention derives its advantage by being able to relocate persons in front of other persons after a desired time period. The desired time period may be set by a conductor or a computer software program running on a computer processor In a speed dating situation, this amount of time is typically 3 to S minutes Song. At the end of said set time period, after a suitable beep and potentially a visible or audible countdown providing time for participants to change seats, relative motion may be initiated to place persons in another facing relationship.

[0113] Note that in a typical speed dating situation, where the number of participants of one sex is limited to no more than 7 to 10, at the end or the desired tram period, an opportunity may be provided to exchange contact information. However, it is typically the case in a speed dating situation that the actual sharing of contact information at the end of the period of contact is discouraged but is provided once the constituents of a pairing indicate that they are both interested in making contact. However, in a simple embodiment of the invention, the participants are not required to pre-register online before being able to use the device. Therefore, unless the participants do what is typically done, namely, provide a Active name or phone number, a clever way of allowing persons to sign tip after the fact must be provided. One means is to provide information cards conveniently located with respect io the device which enable a non-preregistered user So add a unique nickname or handle, which can be shared wish other participants after She contact. This user then cast, after the fact, register online using this nickname or handle. Where the nickname or handle is a common one, the system of the invention may allow the user to indicate which event he ar she participated in, which then allows the other person to contact them online after the face-to-face contact.

[0114] Note as well that in a heterosexual speed dating configuration, only males or females would be located on the moving portion of the device, while the opposite sex would be seated on the fixed portion. In such a case, the portion, probably the moving platform, would be dedicated to females. This would then allow for the suggestion that females should locate themselves on the rotating portion by configuring the rotating portion in a more feminine look such as a pink color, while the male portion is configured in brown, a more masculine color.

[0115] In one embodiment, a payment system is provided to enable a participant to delay disengagement with another facingly disposed person. A means to accept payment to accelerate the change is also envisioned. The payment system is provided for taking payment from persons who wish to be disposed on the system, who wish to remain on the system for a longer term, or who which to be matched in a desired way.

[0116] ht another embodiment, a conveyor system conveys refreshments or food between facing persons. Optionally, a sensor in the conveyor system detects drinks or food taken from the system for billing purposes. For this purpose, the register of the conveyed disposition device is tracked and known, and associated with adjacent or proximate persons on the system in order to properly attribute the taken drinks or food for billing purposes, A suitable system is described in US application tto. 10 / 203,680, entitled Portable Sushi Counter with Conveyor Belt, filed January 31, 2001, the content of which is incorporated herein in its entirety and relied upon.

[0117] The disposition system ideally has a payment system for taking payment front persons which wish to be disposed on the system, and a mechanism for detecting whether enough persons have enrolled to use the system in order to make the use of the system i erest! ng for the participating users. These surfaces would include the bases 61 of the moving chairs 63, and of the moving steps 55 for example.

[0118] Referring to FIGs. 5A and §8, an alternate embodiment 500 of the invention includes a central portion 502 which may be translated to relocate a person disposed thereon in a seat 504 tor example, to another person in a seat 506 at a fixed location. Ideally a counter surface 510 is provided to dispose drinks and the like.

[0119] It shotfid be noted that the total number of all possible unique pairings with 8 persons is the number of persons times the number of persons minus one (8 persons are able to make 7 contacts, without changing seats), such an arrangement is capable of creating 8 x 7, or 56, x A 56 or 28 total possible new pairings. See FIG. 25 for a graphical illustration of the foregoing. A 4 x 4 array of the invention described in FIGS. SA and 58 can make 16 (i.e., 4x4) unique pairings without changing seats. AH possible pairings (ail 28 possible) can be achieved by allowing alternating persons on the outer ring to change seats with alternating persons on the inner rotating ring, twice, alternating different persons between the second and third configuration. This results in a total of 16 x 3 pairings (48 total pairings) where many are redundant (namely 48 total pairings minus 28 total possible unique pairings, leaving 20 redundant pairings). Of course, it is not undesirable to have redundant pairings, but it is reasonable to measure the pairing efficiency of the device arrangement by looking at the number of unique pairings capable without changing seats and comparing this with the total number of all possible pairings. Consequently, in this example, the efficiency would be 16 / 28 for one configuration without seat exchanges, or about 58%, which represents a baseline efficiency. With two more rounds (one possible configuration being shown in FIG. 26) 1 n which seats are changed, al! possible 28 unique pairings or matches are accomplished, but with the sacrifice that a number of redundant pairings (namely 12) are also marie. Note that 190% efficiency is not desired in all cases, particularly when men wish only to meet women and vice versa. Consequently, a console adjacent each seat can instruct the users to change seats to suit the goals of the engagement, between operation intervals (when the device is not moving) from one marked seat to another by providing an audible or visual suggestion via a speaker or a display, in order to achieve the total number of possible unique pairings. The seat switching can be optimized mathematically, heuristically or experimentally, in an effort to increase pairing efficiency and / or to minimize the number of seat changes required. As will be explained hereinafter, the present invention also provides a computer-implemented method for improving the number of matchings between users and increase the efficiency of a roundtable system, so that time can be managed more efficiently and fruitfully.

[0120] Further unique pairings are possible in embodiment where the outer and / or saner seats are able to be automatically (or manuall ) turned to face adjacently seated users, those who would otherwise not meet each other. This capacity can be built into the versions of the invention discussed herein, which have a rotating platform, by allowing the seating on the platform to turn on their own axis, and via a drive shaft that extends from a base of the rotating platform outwardly to the fixed seats, thereby enabling turning of these outer seats toward each other on command of the controller.

[0121] Referring now to FIG. 6, a variation 600 of the alternate embodiment of FIG. SA, in which more fixed seating 602 is provided. Here the number of unique pairings is 8 x 4, or 32. Further, this embodiment shows outer seats turning outwardly during pause intervals, which occur when foe outside number of seats is greater titan the inside number of seats. Alternatively, the system of FIG. 6 can create three-person discussion circles, thereby giving those -who sit adjacent each other on the outer ring an opportunity to meet, perhaps facilitated by foe person on a centrally rotating seat. In such an embodiment, privacy baffles may be used to demarcate the three-person discussion groups and not just persons seated opposite one another, in such a situation, it may be advisable to have foe baffles foldable (preferably at their extremities), either automatically, or manually, to improve the demarcation of the three-way conversation or to at least partially remove the barrier effect.

[0122] Note as well that a user can choose a seat based on their own personality or energy level. An outgoing, energetic user would likely prefer a seat in the middle rotating portion because he is potentially placed in continual contact with others. A more reserved or less energetic user would choose ar. exterior nxed seat, because there is a pause between contacts. A user may also choose the outside seat because he has a problem with motion sickness. Users can also choose to avoid other users by re-seating themselves on the same relative side of the system (either the rotating side or the fixed side).

[0123] Referring BOW to IG. 7, in another variation 700, the central translation device 502’ may have privacy baffles 702.

[0124] Referring now to FIG. 8, a simple embodiment 800 of the invention includes a couch 802, such as a settee couch, disposed on the translating platform 804.

[0125] Referring now to FIG. 9, in an even simpler embodiment 900, mobile seating 902 is disposed on the translating platform 904.

[0126] Referring now to FIG. 10, a large ring-shaped arrangement 1000 of the invention has a central bar or a conductor seating arrangement 1002 within the translatable disposition device 1004 of the invention.

[0127] Referring now to FIG. 11 is & perspective view of art arrangement 1100 of the invention in which no seating need be translated, but rather, a guiding hoop 1102 guides persons to move from one place to another on foot. The hoops 1102 are guided to rotate around the table 1104 on a chain 1106 or, when the table is round, on a ring fitted with bearings (not shown), for example, to ensure smooth operation, This embodiment 1100 is advantageous in that the masses of users need not be translated, thereby avoiding complicated and heavy designs. This solution Is simpler because the table 1104 is fixed. In one variation, when the hoop is touched, an alarm may go off tmlll the person moves away from the hoop, which means until the person allows himself to be guided to the next position to make a match. Alternatively, proximity sensors or capacitance sensors detect touch or proximity to sound an alarm Io encourage the person to comply with the need to relocate himself. At the same time however, this embodiment suffers from the disadvantage that some users may be put off by being “corralled” and "forced” to move, something that the other embodiments of the invention avoid.

[0128] Referring now to FIG. 12, a controller 512 controls the translation of users disposed on the system of the invention. The controller 512 comprises a processor and a non-transitoty computer readable storage medium programmed with application software executing method steps described herein. In a first step, according to optional inputs from users or the purveyors of the system, the processor interrogates each presence sensor (using optics, lasers, capacitive contact sensors, resistance sensors, proximity sensors or strain gauge / weight sensors, or a user-activated toggle or pushbutton) embedded in each seat or reads registration data created in a user-to-seat registration process, which causes a presence or non-presence signal and / or a user ID to be sent by each seat together with a unique seat identifier, in order to enable the processor to determine which seats are occupied. In a second step, the processor takes the information received from the seats and feeds this information into an algorithm adapted to direct movement of the seats such that face-to-face contact is made between those detected to be present. In a third step, the processor controls the motor(s) driving the seats according to outputs of the algorithm in order to share the time between the persons seated, preferably in an egalitarian manner. The optional inputs mentioned above may be the time duration of iace-to-face contact that is desired, and the selection of the algorithm desires, such as a dating algorithm, a networking algorithm or other algorithm style. For example, if a dating algorithm is selected, then the system may optionally take inputs ir rn each person sealed, such as the sex and sexual preference of that person, and use that input io make the appropriate face-to-face contacts. tn a more passive variant, the system may use proximity' sensors which detect the proximity of the legs of those seated to the arm rests in order to guess whether the person seated is male or female (the greater the proximity of the legs to the armrests, the more likely khat person is male, and the more distant the legs from the armrests, the more likely that person seated is female).

[0129] The controller 512 forther includes an interface 1202 such as a touch screen, a keyboard of input buttons, facilitating the activation of the controller and the selection of the operation mode of the controller. Circuitry (not shown) conducts the flow of electricity to a motor to activate the same or to change polarity to reverse the same. In addition, the circuitry controls the acceleration of the device, such that the movement is smooth and almost unnoticeable. Sensors optionally provide inputs that the controller uses to optimize the user experience. Optionally, colored light indicators 1204 communicate with the user. A processor 1206 runs software code 1210 to open and close switches 1212 to provide more or less power or change current flow direction, to enable control of the invention in a desired manner,? An input panel may be provided adjacent to each seat, but for simplicity, the same may be provided only io seats that are translated. in a simpler embodiment, the panel may be a physical panel or marker board, where the individuals or users write their names and some characteristics about themselves and turn the panel so as to be read by the opposing user with 'whom they are engaging, thus avoiding complicated electronics or a connection to the Internet.

[0130] In sum, the disposition system of the invention includes disposition devices such as seating or standing supports and / or counter / tabte arrangements adapted to dispose at least two persons in which a guiding system guides relative movement of at least one person of the at least two persons to place the at least one person so as to successively face one of the at least one remaining persons for a desired time period.

[0131] The guiding system is activated by a motor, by a gear motor and rack and pinion gear arrangement, or by hand, such as by rotating a wheel or by a push or pull handle.

[0132] In one embodiment, such as that of FIG. 3, the guiding system is optionally a conveyor arrangement. The conveyor arrangement is a closed loop. The closed loop may be of any serpentine form.

[0133] Referring in addition to FIG. 5A, in another embodiment, the guiding system has at least one rotating table-The rotating table may be formed as a ring as depicted in FIGs. 1A, IB, and 8- Referring now to FIG. 5A, SB, 6, 7, 8, and 9, in a simple form, the disposition system is a round couch disposed on a rotating platform. Referring to FIG.

[0134] 10, in its simplest form, the couch is replaced by chairs disposed on the rotating platform.

[0135] The desired time period to be matched is typically a set time period. At the end of said set time period, translation or relative motion is initiated to place persons in another facing relationship.

[0136] A computer processor initiates relative motion to place persons in the facing relationship.

[0137] One can imagine that such a device might be disposed at a bar at a conference hotel. An advantage of the invention is that no registration or software downloads are necessary to participate in the use of the device. For example, a busy executive travels io a conference hotel at which one such device is used. The executive sits on a seat of the system of foe device. When only one person is seated, nothing need happen - no movement or coordination of motion of each seat. However, the device is programmed to sense the position of each person seated on the device. When one person is seated on the outer ring of seating, and one on the rotating couch, then rotation is initiated to place the persons seated in face-to-fece contact. Where three persons are seated, two on the outside ring and one on the rotating platform, then the person on the rotating ring is placed in face-to-face contact with the persons on the outer ring. Depending on how many persons are seated on the device, the system of the device calculates a fair division of time among the participants so as to fairly distribute the time spent between them. When the system seating is fail, then of course, the system divides the time evenly between the persons seated on the rotating platform and the outer ring.

[0138] A refreshment or food conveyor system conveys refreshments or food to persons disposed on the disposition system. Sensors in the conveyor system register the lifting of drinks or food taken from the conveyor system for bi 11 ing purposes. It is assumed that taken drinks or food were taken by the person proximate the drink or food location for billing purposes.

[0139] In other words, the invention is a disposition system including a central translatable disposition device comprising at least one seat or standing support and / or counter / table arrangement. The disposition device is adapted to transport a user / person disposed on the at least one seat or standing support and / or counter / table arrangement to face one other or preferably one of at least two fixed seats or standing supports and / or counter / table arrangements for a time period. After this time period, the system translates the at least one seat or standing support and / or counter / table arrangement to face another of the seats or standing supports and / or counter / table arrangements for another time period.

[0140] Although it may be controlled by hand, transport of a user is optimally controlled by the controller 512, The controller reads user registration-to-seat information and / or inputs of presence, strain gauges, and / or weight sensors associated with the at least one seatfs) or standing supports) and / or counter / table arrangements) to ensure that usets disposed on the fixed and translatable seat(s) or standing support(s) and / or counter / table arrangements) are matched with each other for a time period. A console having a touch screen or other input device optionally disposed on the disposition system can display or evert locally audibly broadcast, via a speaker, characteristics of two participants that match based on some input criteria (for example, indicating “you both like sushi”, or “you are bolh attorneys”, or “you are both Texas Aggies”) as well as enable a participant to choose to command the controller to solicit or to avoid further contact with the person with whom they have been matched (on the basis of such sensed presence, strait- or weight), such command continuing until the presence detector detects that at least one of the persons Involved has lifted off the seat or standing support (and, based on comparable strain / weight, surmise that they have simply changed seats). Avoidance may be accomplished by switching seats to one which makes a repeated match impossible (from a rotating seat to a fixed seat, for example), or by simply allowing the seat of a person who wishes to avoid someone to be rotated away from that person prior to a match being made (t'nis is shown its particular it- FIG. 18, where the inner or central seats can rotate away from the facing person). Rematching of two individuals or users may also be contingent on both individuals or users indicating that they are willing; to be matched again with the other individual or user, or by omission, where no objection is made by the individuals or users, a second or further match is made possible.

[0141] Privacy baffles separating seats or standing supports from adjacent ones minimize distractions and so focus the attention of matched users.

[0142] In another aspect of the invention, a controller controls the transport of users to establish alternating facing relationships for a time period. The controller is fed with detected inputs indicating the presence of individuais / users disposed on fixed and translatable seat(s) or standing supports) and / or counter / table arrangement(s), to match those users detected to at least another user in a prescribed way.

[0143] The controller may make random or consecutive matches, or matches based on match criteria according to programmed inputs. A computer-implemented method according io match criteria is disclosed hereinafter.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 4, the matches may be made to match men to women or vice versa, to match employers to candidate employees or headhunters and vice versa, to match investors So entrepreneurs and vice versa, to match students and teachers for testing purposes, such as oral examinations, thereby enabling review of student’s oral knowledge by one or more teachers and enabling a grading system in which each teacher can register a grade for the performance of each student The matches may be made between managers of companies undergoing a merger, to facilitate understanding of the needs and wishes of the managers. The matches may be made simply as introductions successively, which would facilitate persons attending a family reunion or wedding in getting to know one another. The matches may even be made between members of hostile groups of users under controlled conditions to facilitate communication and understanding with a view to resolving disputes. It is easy to imagine the social benefits of bringing hostile groups together face to face (i.e., in promoting peace) while being able to emphasize (via a visual and / or audible prompt) all the things / characteristics / interests the users have in common, enhanced by the power of the computer in making comparisons based on the profile inputs of the users, at least those for which the users have at I o 'ed com arisons.

[0145] In a further embodiment, the app or app and device combination of the invention includes a feature allowing each participant to select their language and to activate voice recognized translation to the language selected by the other participant, thereby allowing for voice recognition and simultaneous translation of the conversation between participants by displaying to the listener on a display in text or computer generated speech a translation of the speaker into a language comprehensible to the listener. For example, using the networking roundtable of the invention, each pardcipatit is showt- the common interests in their own language, and is given the option of voice recognized translation of live questions to the other participant in their language. The app then should of course compare profile information and / or interests originally saved in different languages. This step involves language translation and comparison to at least one language, which is typically the language of one of the users, or a common language like English. The comparison and indication of common interests in a language understood by the user, as well as the opportunity to respond or engage in conversation using one’s own language helps develop understanding between citizens of different nations and cultures. Such embodiment is particularly useful for a businessman travelling in foreign lands which use other languages because not only is the discussion translated into the relevant language, but the common interests are recognized and displayed, prompting further discussion.

[0146] Input means such as a selection push buton allows persons who dispose themselves on the device to be matched to input at least one of a group of characteristics consisting of gender, age. sexual orientation, profession, employment status, interests, and purpose in being matched. The characteristics input may be of the disposed persons and / or of those with whom they would prefer to be matched.

[0147] The controller may be programmed to operate to affect a match only when persons on the translatable or the fixed side are detected, because no matches are possible. Where no match is possible, the controller may optionally initiate a wailing routine, which optionally slowly translates a translatable seatfs) or standing supportfs) and / or counter / table arrangementfs). Or it may audibly signal one or the other occupant to change their seal such that a match ■s possible.

[0148] In one variation, when presence detection indicates a match can be made, such as at least one user disposed on a fixed seatfs) or standing supportfs) and / or counter / table arrangementfs), and at least one on a translatable seatfs) or standing supportfs) and / or counter / table arrangementfs), the controller initiates translation to make lhe match.

[0149] A warning light, such as a red light, indicates when it is not safe to take a seat or dispose a user on the translatable seatfs) or standing supportfs) and / or counter / table arrangementfs). This warning, when made shortly before the translation of the device, is also an indication that it is time io break off the conversation. Another colored light may also provide this warning, or a message on a console disposed next to the seated user may provide this indication as well.

[0150] The time period is preferably counted down on a display visible to the users, to allow for last-minute exchange of contact details, and to properly say goodbye.

[0151] The controller optionally receives inputs from the users indicating a desire to be matched again, or not, with another user, at least for the duration of foe detected presence of the another user. When presence is detected and seating may be suggested via, for example, a light or sound indication, in order to achieve an even distribution of weight on the translatable seatfs) or standing support s) and / or counter / table arrangementfs) to optimize the matches to be created according to a set criteria. Depending on the number of input users and their interests, seating locations may be suggested by lighting such as coded colored lighting.

[0152] The controller assumes that a desired user is still present when their non-presence has not been registered, such non-presence being registered by the presence indicator indicating an interruption in presence such as the desired user lifting out of their seat.

[0153] A payment system is provided for taking payment from persons who wish to be disposed on the system, who wish to remain on the system for a longer term, or who which, to be matched in a desired way. The payment device may allow persons to pay to make another match with a desired user.

[0154] In another aspect of toe invention, a novel cafe, Oar, restaurant or conference center has at least one disposition device as described above, in which each device is themed as selected from a group of themes consisting of dating, friendship, business contacts, networking, employment, over 30 dating, over 40 dating, under 30 dating, and under 40 dating.

[0155] Referring now to FIG. 83, in still another aspect, the invention may be implemented fi ly or partially in software, via a smart phone app. In such an embodiment, a registration step would register those interested in chatting with each other. The registration step includes inputting information about a registrant candidate and what he or she is seeking in terms ofchat partners, professional service providers, mates, or friends. The registrant candidate is then approved, if he or she meets the general registration criteria. As a registrant, the registrant may then create a chat theme, inputting what criteria is required of participants, thereby creating a themed chat space or chat room, or participate in ata existing chat space if he or she meets the chat space creator’s criteria. Consequently, only those registrants with suitable characteristics may participate in the themed chat room. The chat space is then available for those of common interest, facilitating the creation of a community. Those who meet the criteria may then participate in the chat space. The app then knows and displays information about who is logged on al a given time. As soon as two are logged on, a chat session is opened for a time period, assuming each wishes to chat at that time. When more log on, then the time period allocated for each chat is correspondingly reduced, allowing “equal time” to chat between all participants. Instead of equal time, time may be allocated based an evaluation of the quality of the match.

[0156] The app mimics the invention in the virtual world. As with the physical invention (which selection may indeed affect the reality by excluding a match on the physical carousel), the participants may exclude those with whom they wish no longer chai (by for example, registering the weight sensed (via for example a strain gauge) of the excluded person and excluding that person from further contact at least for a prescribed time period, or excluding them based on a registered member number), and the system Ehen seeks other matches, dividing she time between those non-excluded chatters. A participant may indicate, for example, by paying a premium, an interest in chatting and rechatting with a particular chat participant. Any premium paid may be partially or folly credited to the person selected. In this manner, those with whom chatting is desirous can build a following and thereby earn credits which may be “cashed in” (for money, points, gifts, coupons, or vouchers) at a desired point in the future. Once more than a few chatters participate, n carousel graphic may be displayed which may be randomly “spun” which then slows to land on a particular chat room registrant, initiating a chat session. Using the inputs of momentum and speed, the software calculates in advance of the actual final stopping point, i.e., who will be selected by this spin. The app may then display on the spinner’s screen an image of the carousel as it slows to stop on the final selection’s name or picture, thus allowing him or her to prepare for the chat, optiotjally requesting; that is be blocked, which then ensures that a further final slowed “rotation” to the next chat participant is added to move the next person.

[0157] In fact, foe app may mimic via a graphic display on the disposition device, the actual translating dispositiosi device indicating summary information to each participant about who is present on the disposition device. Payments requesting matches or the indication of preferences then may also be or alternatively be considered to bring persons on the disposition device together. In a variation, the system may perform a “roulette” match, in which the carousel is spun and the match is made randomly. Consequently, toe associated app includes corresponding steps which randomly match but which avoids being rematched to someone with whom the user has already been matched. In an alternate embodiment implemented irt software, and also not requiring the physical networking roundtable of the invention, this alternate app nevertheless requires face-to-face contact and at the same time, forces a time limit between users to ensure that each participant has an equal opportunity to chai, face-to-face, with other members. In this embodiment, in a first step, the system confirms the presence of all participants through a physically present registration step. Its this step, id is verified such as via a finger id scanner ’which scans and reads ah participants on a host touch screen device, such as a smart phone. Alternatively, and preferably, instead of the scanning of a fingerprint, each event creates a unique event code for each participant and pro ides that code only to each participant. Consequently, roil call is made by a host inputting each unique code into his host computing device. The system then knows who is present. The system then starts the process of matching pairs of participants or any group composition which the host requires. The matchings are made, and the participants in these smaller match groups are given a certain length of time to interact with each other. The system generates codes or other inputs sent to one of the members, and requires that the other members input that code or other input in order to continue the networking session. This ensures that the groups are actually engaging with each other and not simply taking more time with the prior matched person. An alarm may be generated where the cross inputs are not input correctly, indicating a violation of the order of the networking session Where there is a violation, the system may exclude these violators from the current round of networking, allowing those who are interacting properly to continue. Violators who routinely violate the rules may also be excluded from continued membership in a community or a group In this manner, systematic and orderly connection with others is a criteria which can be used to determine a “winner” of the matching round. The winner could receive a free drink, or a promotional item from a sponsor, for example. Of course, voice recognized translations may be made as discussed herein, to facilitate communication between those who speak different languages.

[0158] In any configuration, a user may signal, via an indicator on the console of the device, that the conversation will be recorded, giving the other party a means to provide his approval, and providing the option to transmit contact information. By selecting the recordation option, a user has the opportunity to memorialize the contact for reference (for sentimental, recollection or evidentiary purposes), and to dissuade anyone who might be verbally abusive, possessive or forward from continuing contact with the user. When the system is on a “record conversation” mode, the other party is asked to confirm their agreement to the recording, via the recording of a verbal OK or by indicating the same on an input device (e.g., touch screen) on their console next to their seat or on the computer (c.g., smartphone) by which they are connected to the system

[0159] Optionally, participants may be provided with a user ID after an online or local registration step, in which characteristics of the participant and of any desired contacts are registered The system may, via the touch screen, then indicate so a user who has properly disposed themselves on the system what the characteristics are of those others who have also properly disposed themselves on the system, optionally displaying common or sought out characteristics to the user, together with the name and other biographic information as memory aids during the conversation. In one embodiment, disposition devices may have a display which indicates the type of person which is expected to dispose themselves on a disposition device, such as investor, entrepreneur, girl or boy, employer or candidate employee, tour agent and potential tour customer, etc The invention may ideally be configured to allow wine producers to engage with potential consumers of their products in a wine tasting round, for example.

[0160] Referring now to FIG. 14, the simplest possible variant 1400 of the invention includes a single central seat 1 02, preferably with privacy baffles 1404, which seat is turned successively or according to commands of the controller, to face other persons in fixed disposition devices. Suitable 3-D baffles are Soundwave® Village by OFFECCT, Inc. of Ttbro, Sweden, although 2-D baffles may be used. Other suitable products are described on the World Wide Web, bueroteam-hamburg.de / trennwand-akustiksysteme. A visual or audible message may then be emitted by the system, such as the command “Say hello”.

[0161] Of course, an embodiment of the invention could comprise more than one moving disposition device, such as adjacent moving devices which move as a gear engaged with a corresponding gear of a gear train, concentric or one next to another, in any arrangement which circular gears are known in the art of transmission drives may take. Alternatively, in another embodiment, each disposition device may have independent motive power and so be adapted to independently find another disposition device in which is disposed a participant that is a potential match for the user.

[0162] Referring BOW to FIG. 15, in a weight sensing embodiment J 500, a weight or strain sensor arrangement I 502 is used in the instant invention. in this embodiment, a cord 1504 extends from an armrest 1506, then below the seat 1508 to an opposing armrest ISOS’. The weight or strain is sensed by a scale or stain gauge 1520 attached to the cord 1504 and sends the sensed weight or strain to the controller, thereby providing inputs useful to estimate whether someone is in the seat or not. Such arrangement is preferably embedded in upholstery so that it is not visible. It may also be disposed under the seat. The controller may be calibrated to sense an amount of weight comparable to that of a person, to avoid false indications such as the presence of a coat or some other item. A mere presence indicator, such as a laser beam (for example, wherein the laser emiter is mounted on one arm rest and directed to a sensor on the otlier arm rest) broken by an obstacle which is the person occupying a disposition device in the system, may also be used, which indicator however cannot sense weight (unless located under the seat and calibrated so that it is broken only after the seat moves downward under the weight of the occupant to block the laser beam). Weight further indicates gender, and so can be used for the system to “guess" whether the person seated is a an or a woman. Proximity sensors below each armrest may also be used to sense the proximity of the thighs of the users, even the movement of the thighs over time, and compare that profile with typical profiles for men and for women, optionally using Al technology or deep learning methods, thereby allowing more accurate estimation of whether the person seated is male or female. Of course, a simple indicator or switch may be thrown by the person seated indicating whether they are male or female, this input, or the estimation from the weight measurement or proximity input of the thighs, being available for use by the control algorithm for matching persons who take a seat on the system of the invention. Facial recognition software may also be used to estimate the sex of the participant. Referring now to IG, 16, another embodiment I 600 of the invention is similar to that already disclosed in association with FIG, 1, but using a wireless proximity sensor 1602 mounted on a mobile or base location (in this example, on the mobile location) to sense proximity between a fi ed person and the mobile unit in order to sound an alarm when the distance between the same exceeds a certain distance, encouraging participants to respect their rendezvous while not physically moving any participants.

[0163] Referring now to FIG, 8, another embodiment 1800 includes a rotating platform 1802 on which central, rotatable seats 1804 are located. The rotation of the: seats 1804 located on the rotating platform 1802 can be automated (via <■: controller controlling a motor built into the seat or in the rotating platform itself) and synchronizes! with the movement of other seats to permit those participants sitting in seats 1804 located in on the platform 1802 to meet others to their right or left, In any case, if a person located on the rotating platform 1802 wishes not to face a person sitting on a seat 1806 of the outer ring 1810 of seats, he can manually (or by activating the seat to turn via a motor) cause his seat 1804 to rotate away from that person for the duration of the time that the seats would otherwise be face to face.

[0164] Referring now to FIG. 19, in a simpler embodiment, the system i960 is made up of rotating seats 1902 laid out in an array of seats (here, 6 are shown bat there is no limit to the number of seats) on a floor 1904. Such seats 19(12 preferably include a wireless communication device 1906 such as Bluetooth which allows communication and thereby coordination of rotation between the seals so as to match persons face to face. Other means, such as proximity sensors, laser optical communication, laser light pulses, RFID trackers and collision avoidance, a visible line followed by optical means, or wire / cable or mechanical connection under the floor may be suitable substitutes to the wireless Bluetooth connection. The communication between seats 1992 should include a sear identifier, which uniquely locates the seat in a seat map of the array. It typically would need to communicate the relative rotational position of the seats as well. Then, as the system knows where the seats are and what seats are adjacent them, a controller controls the rotational orientation of each seat to, to the extent possible, place the person seated in each seat in a position facing another person seated in an adjacent seal. After a set amount of time, the controller rotates the seats to change the face-to-face relationship to allow each person seated to face and to engage in conversation with another person. As the occupancy of each seat is sensed, the face-to-face relationships are made between those persons in occupied seats, as it may be undesirable to place someone in contact with an empty seat. The seats 1902 sense when someone leaves the seat i 902. and when another, having a characteristic (weight, or ID) that differs from the prior occupant of the seat takes the seat so as to allow another match to an adjacent seat. In this embodiment 1900, the floor 1904 is typically custom made to allow for power to each chair 1 02. The floor 1904 may of course have channels for wiring which transmits control signals to each chair 1902 to orchestrate the movement of the chairs to maximize contacts, to accommodate audio headsets, and, where a user requests that a contact not be repeated, to prevent a later match (until the seating senses that one or both users have left their seat). The floor may be transparent or translucent, multi-colored, backlit, and or decorated with colored LED lighting integrated in the floor.

[0165] Referring now to FIG. 24, the seat 1902, dubbed a networking assistant or intelligent seat 2400, may include a motor 2402 that is powered preferably by a battery 2404, Thus, the hollow floor having channels can be avoided as no hardwired connections are required. For charging, and to facilitate manual movement (rotation, repositioning or a combination thereof), although motorized translation along the floor 1904 is possible, the device may also simply be set via a disengagement mechanism (that may lock swivels 2410) to neutral (or disengage from the motor 2402, for example by springs disengaging the device when the weight of an occupant is removed), in which state the device can be easily pushed or pulled toward a wall having an electrical outlet 2412. In one embodiment, this involves three or more swiveling wheels or casters 2414 which support the weight of the device such that drive wheels or rollers do not touch the floor and are therefore not engaged when the seat is not occupied. However, when the weight of a person is added, springs 242.0 are contracted and drive wheels 2416 extend downward relative to these support casters 2414, against the floor 1904 and so now are able to drive the device via frictional interaction with the floor. The drive wheels 2416 themselves may be controlled or steered with the result being that when such a disengagement mechanism is used, another motion other than simple rotational motion may be imparted (in fact, two parallel wheels 2416 dri en at differing rotational velocities (typically by two separate motors) provide for steering and translation of the device with the platform 2442 free to roll in any direction on swivels 2414.?\s with the conveyer system mentioned earlier (FIG. 3), the seat 1902 may then be controlled to be driven along a path, any path permitted by the support structure or floor 1904 for that matter. A charging cable 2422, preferably stored in a compartment 2424 in the device, preferably retractable, may then be extended a short distance and plugged into the electrical outlet 2412 for charging. A controller 2426 has wireless communication device 2430 capable of communicating with each seat 1902 and operating a remote controller 2432. Where the seat 1 02 is fully automated, including being adapted to receive information useful for making matches via a smart card or via access to online profiles of participant, it serves as a moderator or a sort of “mutual friend" that knows the other participants and can move the device 1902 to a juxtaposed position to another seat supporting a participant of likely interest. Note of course that the matches made now need not be made between adjacent seats, but rather between seated participants whose profiles are likely to generate a particular match, preferably using Al technology to determine the most efficient matches. This allows the system to make the most likely successful contacts in the least amount of time. Note that although gear 2409, the motor 2402, and rack 2411 are shown in the figure, they are not strictly required with the wheels 2416 are independently driven by another motor (not shown), as rotation in opposite directions of these wheels will cause rotation of the chair. Rotation of these wheels 2416 in the same direction will cause translation of the chair. Indeed a simpler device will not include the gear 2409 or rack 2411.

[0166] It should be clear that each seat 1902 must be able to find or to reorient itself toward a target, based on the viewing direction of the occupant. This can be accomplished by providing a mechanism in the device that allows the device to find an absolute home position with respect to any objects to be viewed such as adjacent seats or video displays (see FIG. 28) in the room 2804. Where little magnetic inference is expected, such can be accomplished using a built-in compass that faces the seat to north as a home position. GPS may also be used to provide inputs necessary for repositioning the seat. Preferably, the seats 1902 are arranged in an array on a floor or operational surface. The seats preferably have transceivers that transmit and receive signals to and from the controller. The floor includes an array of markers (not shown) that transmit location signals, arguably via active RFID signals. The seals 3902 emit a signal capable of exciting and reading RFID signals sent by the markers only a certain distance away from the seat. The seat's emitted signal excites the location markers and causes them to send a signal back io the seat, which combines the ID of this marker its own ID and sends this io the controller, preferably via wireless. For each seat 1902, the controller has marker ID information which locates the seat relative to the markers and, in thss way, the location of each seat can be determined. Alternatively, each seat ID is associated with a corresponding market ID. Marker RFID signals emitted by excitement thereof are triangulated on by the seats 1 02, thereby allowing the seats to find a home position on the floor. The markers can two or more beacons which, through calculation based on the inputs of the known beacon locations and triangulation techniques, helps the system know where each seat 1902 is. The markers cats be embedded in the floor, on the floor surface or even suspended from the ceiling or from overhead support cables traversing the operational surface (dance floor). Each seat 1902 may be adapted to take a home position corresponding to the location of an associated marker. In this way, differing choreographed routines can be performed from a known start location.

[0167] In one embodiment, the seat 1902 includes an “approach” feature which upon selection (either by the controller, or by the occupant of the seat), advances the seat toward an occupied, facing seat after the device had rotated itself io face the adjacent user in order to make communication easier. After the predetermined time of engagement, the seat withdraws to its initial position.

[0168] in still another embodiment, the array of seats 1902 are controlled by the controller in a manner that can be compared io a dance, in which the length of the song determines the time that each matched pair is engaged. As with dancing, between songs, partners may be exchanged. Because a signal is sent to the controller when a seat 1902 senses that a person is occupying the seat, the controller knows how many participants there are at any given time. Because each seat 8902 is adapted to communicate its occupancy status, and because the controller knows where each seat is, the controller, optionally applying Al technology to determine among options the best configuration, chooses from a group of pre-programmed „choreographed” routines that best serve the intended purpose of the engagement. Seats that are not occupied may be withdrawn, optionally, automatically from the „dance” floor, or via a hve caddy charged with removing inactive seats 19(12. from the “dance floor”. Those occupied are applied to the chosen choreographed engagement routine.

[0169] Where the seats 8 02 do nothing but rotate with respect to a fixed base whose orientation has been set io a known orientation, a resistive ring 2440 (such as a slip ring made of conductive material) centered in the seat can be used. Preferably this ring’s periphery is outwardly disposed in the fixed foot 2242 yet invisible, located under the seat adjacent the floor 1904. The seat 1902 is mounted on a rotating axis 2444 rotating about an axel or on a ring bail bearing on a platform 2442 which is (fictionally engaged with the floor on one end. This fixable platform 2442 preferably encloses the batery 2404, the weight of which proving stability to the device. An electrical connection is made from the battery to one end of the resistive ring 2440. A roiling or sliding electrical contact 2450 atached to the seat 1902 makes electrical contact with a conductive, exposed surface of the ring 2440 at different points along its periphery. Given that the length of the ring 2440 through which current has to pass varies, differing resistances are read out by the resistance measuring device 2452. This resistance measurement is compared with known resistances in for example a table for differing positions in order to determine the current relative rotational position of the seat 1902 (i.e., it’s pointing orientation) with respect to the platform 2442 which is engaged with the floor 1904. If the platform 2442 is oriented to a known position at setup of an array of such seats, then a controller 2426 will know where each seat 1902 is pointing, and can control the forward and reverse rotation of the wheels 2416 through a control loop to move the seat to any relative desired rotational position. The resistance of the facing direction 2454 and other positions is known at points along the ring, thereby allowing the device to know its rotational location with respect to a base.

[0170] In the above arrangement, where user seats 1902 rotate in orchestration with other seats, the arrays may be of different configurations. In one embodiment, the seat 1902 includes an “approach” feature which upon selection, advances the seat toward an adjacent seat after the device had rotated itself to face the adjacent user in order to make communication easier. After the predetermined time of engagement, the seat withdraws to its initial position. Referring now' to FIG. 20, one possible array 2000 is shown. It can be seen by the arrows 2002 how matches can be made. Any number of possible variants are possible.

[0171] Referring now to FIG. 21, an array 2100 of 6 seats 1902 are shown. The arrows 2102 have numbers associated with them which indicate 5 alternate configurations 1-5, that permit a suitable number of contacts to be made between adjacent seats 1902.

[0172] Each seat of any embodiment of this invention may have a card reader which reads an ID card encoded with name and profile information and / or interests, including information marked as able to compare and share with other participants, further optionally including lhe goals of that user (networking, dating, friendship or learning). The ID card is electronically readable and may be a magnetic card.

[0173] The system may include any number of programs / protocols / aigorithms (PPAs) for making contact with adjacent (or even non-adjacent) seated participants. Some seats are adapted to be automatically rotatable by being placed on a bearing or casters and either allowing the users to simply turn their own seats using their own physical force or by using a servo motor to rotate each or particular seats about 1 hei r own vertical axis to direct certain persons seated therein to a particular focal point such as toward a common speaker or to help facilitate three or four (or more} way conversations by putting the participants in a better facing relationship. It may also include PPAs for directing the attention and so orientation of all (or selected) seated persons to a particular focal point or area. Such focal point may be set to that of the location of a speaker or moderator. It may also be set to direct some or all tow rd a particular video screen, in one embodiment, a video screen mounted on a wall. A PPA may then orient each or some toward one video screen presentation on one wall and then later to another wall. This permits those who enter the presentation space to enter when they wish. Once they sit in a seat and place their ear or headphones on, they are directed to the first of a series of video presentations, following sequentially to lhe next until lhe presentation is finished. This leads to a more immersive experience for users and is particularly useful for introductory videos in, for example, a museum. However, unlike the conventional museum theatre, where people have the opportunity to attend a one hour presentation only once an hour, using the invention, a participant is allowed to enter essentially at will and not have to watt until the entire presentation begins again (the presentation being divided into a number of segments, for example, corresponding to the number of wail mounted video screens).

[0174] In another advantage, it can be appreciated that elderly persons may use the device to be toured through a museum or other exhibit when the wheels 24? 6 are controlled to permit translation. This may also have a benefit to those who are not physically handicapped, to force a flow rate of visitors through a museum, thereby avoiding clutter and “traffic jams” at particular points of interest in the museum. This also enables the seats 1902 to provide information about the exhibits when the system calculates that a seat is adjacent the particular work of art. Where security is an issue, the system enhances security by ensuring a proper distance from a work of art, where, for example, leaving the seat causes an alarm which might indicate that a theft is being planned and should be thwarted.

[0175] Referring now to FIG. 22, an embodiment 2200 of the invention is shown, where the rotating chair 2200 includes a sound gafoering / isolating bonnet 2202, which is preferably transparent so as to minimize blocking of the view by adjacently seated participants. The chair optionally includes audio earphones and a holder, which optionally has channel selection for different languages. This pod or chair 2200 is shown with a flat surface 2206 to conveniently rest a drink or snack.

[0176] Referring now to FIG.23, an embodiment 2300 of foe invention is shown where the rotating couch resembles a UFO, which in this context could mean Unlimited Friendship Opportunities.

[0177] In another embodiment, the invention does away with seating altogether. In this embodiment, the invention consists of units, encoded with software, and which are worn by the users involved, the units including proximity sensors to units which a match has or is to be established, which, after a time period allowing conversation, will sound an alarm until the units are separated a certain distance, forcing the participants to break off conversation and seek their next match. In one embodiment, provided that smart phones develop foe ability to sense their relative proximity to another smart phone, the unit is a smart phone encoded with software. The units read biographical information of members that are within proximity to on© another. When foe units of those who are to be matched approach each other, the proximity sensed through these proximity sensors decreases, then the units indicate to their user Eh t the match is near and when within a certain proximal distance, the indication stops or is silenced until the end of the time period, at which time, an alarm sounds again until the matched persons separate a certain distance. As already indicated, in this embodiment, sealing or moving furniture dedicated to foe system is completely done away with, requiring foal the pasticipants move themselves to snake a snatch.

[0178] The invention, as is evident, has unlimited applications.

[0179] For a typical speed dating engagement, persons may subscribe, pay a fee, and share their information online. Once at the event, the participating and subscribed persons may be given an ID number or art ID card (encoded with an identifier for that person, and optionally including all their subscription information, including their characteristics and interests and those of others which they seek to make contact with), which when inserted into a card reader of foe system, registers their information and allows common interests to be identified between users by comparing profile information and / or interests, and optionally displayed to the users at will, but particularly during foe match as hints for conversation and as memory aids. At foe end of foe event, such cards cart be retained, or turned in tor re-use. in a variant, a contact game may be played using the system of the invention, in which sets of questions which, near the end of their time-limited contact but prior to indexing to the next person, are presented to the user for answering. The questions are directed at the other person just contacted and are of a manner such as the following: “Now that you've met this person, how would you answer the following questions? Note that the person you’ll be answering these questions about will be asking and answering the same questions about you, and you’re answers will be graded based on your contacts’ own responses about themselves. The person who gets the most answers correct wins the game. Here are further sample questions: T This person is likely to flee for their hves when confronted face to face with a hungty grizzly bear. Y / N. 2. This person has much in common with Indiana Jones. Y / N. 3. This person prepares tea by putting milk in the cup first before they add hot water. Y / N, 4. This person goes with the flow of his or her surroundings. Y / N. 4. This person spends more time than you in front of the mirror every morning. Y / N. Preferably, the questions are provided such that they can be answered with a simple yes or no. A tally is made of whose answers best matching the answers of the facing contacts and a prize coupon or other reward is issued to the person or persons with the highest score. This embodiment brings the interest of a video game together with the rewarding nature of traditional personal face-to-face contact.

[0180] In a variant applicable to all variants described herein, the system including a recommendation or matching engine, the Invention operates on or is integrated in a social media service like “F ACEBOOK®, “L1NKEDIN”® or “XING”™, “MEETUP”™ and “GOOGLEPLUS”® to compare user biographical data and, based on preferences and permissions, recommends connections so as io facilitate face-to-face meeting opportunities. Of course, as used herein, a “face-to-face” meeting can be a physical l ce-to-face meeting or a virtual face-to-face meeting held via video conferencing or via live chat. However, it is preferred to place users tn physical face-to-face contact so as io have eye-to-eye contact when meeting. First the recommendation engine (KE) needs mputs from users to be effective. The following are inputs that are considered by the matching engine: (I) user profile info; and (2) opt-in, providing permissions for comparison and recommendations The RE makes comparison in order io generate recommendations for connection and / or for face-to-face meeting. Popups or in- or emails may then be sent to inform of possible matches, asking permission io set up a face-to-face meeting. If permission is granted, the RE contacts others and seeks a suitable meeting time. The RE sends a meeting proposal, much like an outlook meeting proposal, giving the user the ability to RSVP thereby adding to his calendar. Reminders of the upcoming meeting may then be seat. An evaluation form may also be sen- out after ‘he meeting and connections are proposed once again.

[0181] Populating a profile of inputs for effectively compared with other users in an efficient manner is not straight forward. Free-style inputs can be used but would require high processing power to apply what might amount to Artificial Intelligence algorithms to determine the meaning of the input phrases and determine whether the inputs are positive to a particular input or negative. For example, someone may input that they hate skiing or skiers (or that he hates persons who hate skiers). An algorithm of the recommendation contact engine may pick up on the activity skiing, but not properly attribute the negative aspect to this input, thus risking matching someone who loves skiing with someone who hates skiing. Consequently, the recommendation contact engine best analyses the inputs and displays an input window asking tbllow-up questions about the inputs to determine whether the author is positively or negatively disposed to the input activity. For example, the recommendation contact engine scans the tree-style phrase to identify the activity, it? this example, skiing, by comparing words ending in “log” with a list of activity words stored in memory. If a match is found, the recommendation contact engine displays a further input window together witl- a follow-up question io the use-' seeking input (assuming g the he’s given permission to compare such profile information and / or interests), such as “you’ve written about skiing, right?” If the answer input is “yes”, the recommendation contact engine displays a further input window together with the follow-up question “arc you positively or negatively disposed to skiing? “Yes, or no” If positively disposed, then this input is saved for comparison indicating that the person is positively disposed to skiing. If negatively disposed, then the indication is that the person is negatively disposed to skiing. The recommendation contact engine then displays a further input window asking the follow-up question “are you a good skier, yes, or no?" The inputs populate a table with lines or columns representing the activity, and further inputs that are discernible populate data Helds associated with the activity. Spell check can be run on the free style inputs to ensure that the input is grammatically correct and will be understandable to the system. Where errors are detected, correction can be required before the inputs are saved for later comparison.

[0182] A user uses user settings to provide, from a drop-down menu, for example, permissions required to allow* she recommendation engine to compare the profiles of users and to recommend contacts of those having matching profiles.

[0183] The proposed matches can be made based on weighting indications provided by each user of the importance of common characteristics sought by each user. Location, for example, may be critical, particularly where the participant may only have access to public transportation. Hobbies or religion may be another. Experienced sociologists, psychiatrists, and / or psychologists may create a questionnaire whose questions they weight based on the importance of the answer to determining compatibility with another member. Based on user permissions and preferences, including whether or not the user wishes to participate in a networking event during which the user can meet those persons in their geographical area interested in meeting them, a user is provides! with meeting times and places for meeting others with similar interests (i.e., suggested contacts). Promoted and propagated for example via franchising, social media enabled Cafes (e.g. “F / CEBOOK”™ cafes) may he established which offer the invention as a means of putting people with similar interests in contact in a fair and orderly way, avoiding the annoyances of attempted monopolization (or harassment) by pushy users and giving shy persons (50 percent of the world’s population) equal opportunity. Preferably, these cafes would have at least two meeting areas, one for walk-in visitors who might which to “roll the dice" and see who they might meet in this manner, and another for those whom the system of the invention suggests matching. The invention gives each user the opportunity to meet each person before allowing the person into their network or friends and family circle. In this manner, abuses of the network can be minimized.

[0184] Alternatively or together with the features in the above paragraph, the invention provides a means for a user to permit the sending of written or e-invitations to phy sical meeting events that may be o interest to the user, and may indicate how far away from the user’s local the user would be willing to receive such invitations. Optionally, the user can indicate that he or she intends to be at another location at a certain time or during a certain period of time, and may search events of potential interest at that time. The user, based or? permissions provided by him and / or other users, may also be provided with means of meeting others having common interests in the or place of meeting which the first user intends to visit.

[0185] Optionally, the system of the invention, after face-to-face contact has been accomplished, logs the event for consideration in a KPI ranking the user, providing the opportunity to reward him for this physical, social interaction, and may also remind the user of the contact and solicits a ''thank you” and / or a connection request. With permission, a log of the locations of physical contact may be stored for future reference.

[0186] it should be appreciated that many applications of the present invention may be formulated.

[0187] In another embodiment which seeks to match persons, facilitate contact and optionally create communities, the system and method of the invention includes several steps. In a first step, the system and method registers user profiles, optionally including ascertaining other user characteristics that the user is willing to connect with (e.g. mountain climber, age 25-35, living in a certain city or area). In a second step, the system and method optionally obtain permissions to compare profile and suggest connections, also with those who fall under criteria for user connection; and for what can be revealed to other possible matches, in a third step, the system and method, over time and in the background, compares user profiles by comparing profile inputs such as age, sex, city of residence, hobbles, etc. and / or user input characteristics of persons sought for connection. In a fourth step, the system and method indexes / flags most frequent, useful (such as having at least 3 but typically many more, matching characteristics) match criteria found in the comparison by assigning an index number or most frequent match identifier classification (hereinafter “code”) to users with corresponding matching characteristics, such as according io a registration questionnaire questions, for example, age range, race, education level, profession, etc., thereby categorizing users via the indexing into smaller communities of users having common profile information and / or interests. In a fifth step, the system and method suggests connections between members sharing the code, optionally providing user the ability to search based on location of users including in a generic or confidential manner (e.g., do not reveal names, providing menu option selectable listings) including further at least an option of brokering a face-to-face meeting with the suggested connections by at least some users). In a sixth step, where a brokered meeting by at least some users is selected, the system and method sends a meeting request between such users who’ve, by their selection or by a profile seting, permitted brokered meetings, soliciting input on possible meeting times, dates, places, etc. in a seventh step, the system and method repeat the above step until agreement is reached between suggested connections on time and place. In an eighth step, the system and method sends out reminders, optionally with an vCalendar Format (*.vcs) electronic calendar file, requesting RSVPs to such brokered meetings, optionally including coordinating with meeting locales such as bars or restaurants or amusements to ensure space availability. In a ninth step, after the meeting, the system and method solicit ratings for each connection, including providing the option of connecting with the attendees online.

[0188] Further, during a brokered meeting, the system and method of the invention at least initially limits participating users to a predetermined amount of time of face-to-face contact with the other users, with each user receiving a turn at the face-to-face contact, thereby ensuring fair and orderly introductions between users. The locale or place of meeting in which the system and method are used preferably includes infrastructure which enables the use of the networking software of the invention onsite.

[0189] A transceiver may be wom by members, the transceiver emiting and / or receiving the code of the community, optionally emitting the code readable by a lock which unlocks upon reading of the code to allow a code member to enter a restricted area reserved for members with the code.

[0190] Face-to-face contact, optionally with the networking roundtable of the invention, may take place in a room whose walls are at least partially, preferably completely covered with a video panels adapted to display images or videos selected by the organizer of the event, a host meeting locale manager and / or the event sponsor, to create at-immersive environment therein keyed to the common interests of the community. Preferably all walls and the ceiling, or merely adjacent corner panels and optionally a ceiling panel may be used. Of course, a single panel provides more information and enhancement to a networking event than none at all,

[0191] The video devices are video panels that cover at least a substantial portion of the walls and / or ceiling of a room In the premises at which the brokered meeting is to take place.

[0192] Using the system and method described herein, the locale or place of meeting reserves and makes available the networking roundtable of the invention, wherein the members seat themselves in the roundtable in facing relationship, and she table turns to alternate the facing relationship, thereby optimally ensuring fair and orderly introductions between users, and to provide matching tools which, based on matches, suggests themes for discussion.

[0193] The system and method described herein further may promote the code characteristic of a particular community's atributes within that community, wherein promotional materials such as T-shirts, sunglasses, bags and other items are branded with the code and made available to members of that particular community.

[0194] A radio transceiver carried or worn by a member user may transmit and receive the community code, wherein an alarm indicates whether another community member is within a certain area, and which optionally emits the code readable by a door lock to allow a code member to unlock a door to a space or room reserved for members with the code.

[0195] The transceiver further may include communication means which, when activated such as via contact with another transceiver, contact details are shared between the users associated with each transceiver, independently of whether the users match the criteria of a community that one or the other is a member of.

[0196] The system and method described herein, wherein a directional indicator device is integrated in the transceiver to help direct the two members toward each other to facilitate making an encounter.

[0197] '["he sy stem and method described herein may use a profile database such as a multi-tenant database, wherein each user is a tenant that may run a search on the database to find matches, and is provided with a save results feature, saving the results under a particular community name or code, the code being unique and saved in a column of the database associated with each user, thereby allowing the users to solicit a meeting or meetings among the users found in the search.

[0198] Members of the community so formed may run searches on the community limited to a particular location. asid thereby be able to set up meetings at any desired location. A sponsor module may be integrated into the invention. This sponsor module for example seeks sponsors offering products and / or services targeting members of a community having interests which match the codes, and, assuming the size of any brokered meeting is of interest to potential sponsors, a sponsor or sponsors indicating their interest and who contracts with the purveyors of the system to sponsor the meeting is provided with sponsoring options selected from at least one of the group of sponsoring options consisting of:

[0199] a, providing custom sponsor banners online on the website of the community for which the code is associated, for a period of time where the meeting is memorialized online for a specified amount of time or for a number of visitors,

[0200] and

[0201] b. providing a brokered meeting organizer and / or a meeting host location manager with custom sponsor banners, sponsor videos, samples (including samples for tasting or testing) and / or promotional items (such as T-shirts, mugs, pens) for delivery to the locale or place of meeting prior to the meeting or for display on display devices in the premises at which the brokered meeting is to take place.

[0202] In step b, the users displaying the banner or distributing the promotional items optionally do so together with a bar code on the banner or promotional item which when activated, enables the locale or place of meeting to receive payment on behalf of the sponsor for a determined percentage of the costs of the meeting, including optionally the cost of the first drink, or a percentage of all drinks purchased such that the locale or place of meeting cars offer a special price such as a happy hour price (for example, a taxi company can offer discounted taxi services to return the participants to their homes). The code optionally being readable via a barcode reader, for example, by users who attend the meeting. The larger the number of users who scan the code (indicating that they’ve read the banner for example), the more the sponsor pays for such sponsoring opportunity.

[0203] Referring now to FIG. 29A, the community codes or corresponding names 3002 representing these communities may be published embodied in a wearable item 3000, such as on clothing items selected from at least one of the group of clothing items consisting of watches 2900, wrist bands, headbands, T-shirts 3000 (see FIG. 30), shirts, sunglasses, baseball caps, wherein, where the code is not converted into a corresponding name that is descriptive, the nature of the community remains unknown to non-members of the community, thereby allowing users who are members of the community to inconspicuously brand themselves so that they are identifiable by other members of the community.

[0204] Referring now to FIG. 29B, the wearable items may include a transponder and / or receiver adapted to emit and / or respectively receive the code at least by other members of the community, over a given distance range, thereby enabling impromptu contact between members.

[0205] A wearable transceiver may be integrated into the system and method of the invention. The transceiver has a receiver, a transmitter, a processor and a power source functionally connected so as to emit and receive a code such as the community code. The transceiver is adapted to be worn by a member of the community having the code associated therewith. The transceiver, in operation, scans a region within its scanning range for the presence of another transceiver emitting the community code, the reception of the code from another transmitter informing the member of the proximity of another member.

[0206] The wearable transceiver described herein may further include a direction indicator device having a pointer which, in operation, upon detecting another transmitter transmitting the code of the community, indicates the relative direction which the wearer must travel to approach the transmitter for the purpose of making contact with the wearer of the transmitter.

[0207] The transceiver may emit further code information enabling users to better ascertain whether to make the impromptu contact, such further code information selected from at least one of a group of further characteristics consisting of gender, marital status, age range and whether there is a compatible sexual orientation.

[0208] A user interested in contacting another user wearing an item displaying the community code, connects to a network having access to a portal associated with all communities and, typically via a URL- to the community search input field, search the communities for that particular community, and seek to join that community.

[0209] The user seeking admittance to the community may be subjected to a questionnaire allowing the community to ascertain whether the user seeking admittance is compatible with the community and if so, provides a means for the seeking user to join the community.

[0210] The code further annotated with a user identifier, allowing identification of the individual user.

[0211] A fee may be charged for searching for access in a given community. The fee may be charged commensurate with the stated wealth of the user, thereby excluding the user from a community that requires a certain stated wealth unless the commensurate fee is paid, thereby avoiding fraud in the declaration of stated wealth. A certain fee (of a substantial amount) can be charged to ensure that the member seeking out other wealthy members are themselves wealthy. Membership fees that are commensurate with the stated incomes of the user members provide a revenue stream and minimize the chances that wealthy users will actually be dealing with other members that are not wealthy, ha an aspect of the invention, a community-making engine of the invention includes a keyword analyzer, a classifier adapted to classify the keywords, including indicating whether they are to be published and whether fixed or variable, a comparator, which compares the keywords to suggest whether similar communities exist, a matching engine to check for matches of the user to an existing community and if no matches exist, or only relatively poor matches exist, the engine create a community, assuming that criteria such as moral criteria are met for the existence of the community. In other words, keywords must not be on an exclusion list in order to be able to automatically create a community.

[0212] A community-making engine may also be integrated into the system or method of the invention. This engine operates on a database of user profiles, permissions and preferences, over time and in the background: (a) compares user profiles by comparing profile inputs such as age, sex, city of residence, hobbies, etc. and / or user input characteristics of users sought for connection; (b) indexes / fiags most frequent, useful (such as having at least 3 but typically many more, matching characteristics) match criteria found in the comparison by assigning an index number or most frequent match identifier classification (hereinafter “code”) to users, such as according to a registration questionnaire questions, for example, age range, race, education level, profession, etc., thereby categorizing users via the indexing into smaller communities of users having common profile information and / or interests; (c) defines communities based on at least three common match criteria comprising at least a certain number of matches; (d) for at least the purpose of connecting users of common interest, suggesting connections optionally based on location of users including in a generic or confidential manner (e.g., do not reveal names, providing menu option selectable listings including at least an option of brokering a face-to-face meeting with the suggested connections by at least some users) and optionally brokering face-to-face meetings between members; and (e) optionally following up with those members who have met via a brokered meeting face to face, suggesting connections and ratings.

[0213] In the registration process for a user of the system of the invention, when input by the user, each requested user's preference for contact-making is saved. The community-making engine analyses all keywords representing characteristics of those with whom they have indicated an interest in contacting. For example, Jane Doe may indicate as follows that she would be interested in making contact with a target group of people:

[0214] Male -- personal, static (some may argue this is time dependent)

[0215] 25-30 — personal, time dependent

[0216] Heterosexual — personal, time dependent

[0217] Unmarried — personal, time dependent

[0218] College degree - personal, static

[0219] Employed — personal, time dependent

[0220] Resident of XYZ city -- personal, time dependent

[0221] Because the community-making engine is concerned with creating a community, the engine optionally notes as variables the characteristics that are time dependent, monitoring these variables for changes that would disqualify them for the community. Even if these users fail out of the community, the connections made between members are durable. The members however are informed of the changes that would take the member out of the community, or are simply informed that a variable has changed which places a connected member out of the community, optionally asking each member whether they wish to remain connected, or alternatively, providing a means of disconnecting the connection.

[0222] The engine also checks whether there are existing communities that fit the search criteria, or which match most of the criteria, indicating which communities already exist and providing an option of requesting membership in the existing communities, in addition, the user is asked which of their own characteristics they wish to publish or not to publish.

[0223] Once created, a search module allows users to search communities for users with additional characteristics, for example, city of residence or region of residence (defined by being so many miles from a city center, for example).

[0224] Depending on the number of registered users and the quantity of matches, further communities cart be proposed. For example, after Jane Doe gives her preferences for a match, the engine checks whether there are more than a certain number of matches within a given geographical area or distance from the user. The engine then asks if Jane would like to become a member of the community (for which certain use terms are displayed and must be agreed to before becoming a member), which match these criteria starting from the largest number of matches to the least or vice versa. Once an affirmative answer is received, that user is associated with the code for the combination selected and may be contacted according to the contact terms of the community.

[0225] A global search and comparison reveals different categories of users. One could say “types" of users, except that some of the characteristics are variable. One thinks of a type of user as something that doesn’t vary. Consequently, the preference of using a descriptor other than “types” of users. The size of those categories is defined by the number of common characteristics each possesses. For example, the largest category' is human, the next would be male or female, whereas the smallest would be the user themselves. The two extremes, all users and a single user, are not very useful to make searching more efficient or to help find others that match certain profile criter ia. Therefore, the categories may be set in a logical manner using psychological information, and will therefore be restricted by at least 3 common characteristics, such as sex, age range, and some other limitation, such as general location (city, distance from a city).

[0226] The system preferably uses a multi -tenant database that defines communities, provides members with means to select a community monitor or leader, that monitor or leader having access to the community database of the MTDB.

[0227] The networking roundtable in which the locale or place of meeting provides an unlock code that is optionally specific to the locale or place of meeting of the brokered meeting, such unlock code being provided at a specific time period during operation of the networking roundtable, or only after a certain number of connections are made, the unlock code unlocking a feature of the software which enables connection via a smartphone or tablet with the users who signed up to the brokered meeting. Depending on the requirements set for unlocking, a unlock sequence or requirement can be found that encourages attendance at the brokered meeting and / or enables those who attend a brokered meeting and optionally, those who use the software or the networking roundtable of the invention at the locale or place of meeting during the networking time period to connect to each other using the software of the invention in order to ensure fair introductions before being permitted to get to know the invitees.

[0228] According to some embodiments, the present invention also relates to a computer-implemented method for matching users in a networking roundtable 350.

[0229] Advantageously the computer-implemented method for matching users is implemented in a computer software program. In some embodiments the method is stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium and / or in a cloud system.

[0230] Advantageously the roundtable / platform 350’ is circular, as shown, for example, in FIGs. 7A-B, § or 9, and in FIG.35A-B.

[0231] According to these embodiments, the networking roundtable 350 comprises at least one first seat 351. The first seat 351 is equipped, or configured, to sense a user’s presence preferably with a seat sensor (not shown in FIGs.

[0232] 35-36). Alternatively, each user, using the app of the invention, upon scanning of the seat number or unique QR, bit or bar code, is associated with that seat by the app and in this way, no seat scanner is necessary. In this w-ay, all occurrences of sensing of presence described in association with the present invention in this patent application can be substituted with registering of presence in a particular seat (referred to herein as a user registration-to-seat process). Once a user is registered into a seat, he or she can connect with any other user registered in a seat without having to scan the other user’s personal barcode because the device knows who is sitting in each seat and what profile data they have.

[0233] Alternatively, the app may advantageously be adapted to signal to the user (via, e.g., color LEDs lighting up the seat to sit in) what seat to sit on, in order to build up a configuration of seated users that will provide for more efficient matching, with fewer non-matches in which one user is moved to a position for which no one is seated in the opposing seat.

[0234] An example of seat sensor is shown in FIG. 15 as a strain gauge 1520. Other types of seat sensors can be used. For example, one or more of the seat sensors of the network roundtable can be pressure sensors, strain gauges, weight sensors, present-or-not-present toggle, optical sensors, optical sensors integrated with AI-module(s) for optimizing the data captured by the optical sensors, laser presence sensors, proximity sensors or a combination thereof.

[0235] For the purposes of the present invention, a sensor associated with a seat defines a seat sensor. The function of any seat sensor is to detect the presence / not presence of a user on the seat. Different types of sensors can be used to collect a more reliable determination of the presence / absence of the user on a specific seat. For example, as already described above, a sensor associated with a computer vision system can help to determine if some false positive or false negative are recorded by the sensors.

[0236] In some embodiments, the seat sensors are substituted with one or more machine vision devices, or one or more registration and deregistration systems, in order to determine presence / absence of a user io a predetermined coupling zone, as defined hereinafter.

[0237] Advantageously, the first seat 351 is fixed to the ground or floor, or more preferably it is fixed in a position relative to a plurality of second seats 352.

[0238] Advantageously, the plurality of second seats 352 is movable with respect to the first seat 351. For example, the second seats 352 can be fixed on a platform 350’ which rotates as shown in FIGs. 8 and 9. hi some other embodiments, second seats 352 can move with respect to each other. In some other embodiments, second seats 352 can move with respect to the static first seat 351 and can rotate on itself too.

[0239] In some other embodiments, one or more seats are substituted with standing support(s), counter / table arrangement(s).

[0240] In some other embodiments, one or more seats can be substituted with predetermined area(s) adapted to he sensed with sensors for revealing the presence of a user. In this case it is not necessary to provide a seat, but the skilled person in the field will be able to recognize that the scope of the invention remains the same. The sensorized area (i.e., area in which sensors are disposed to sense presence) can be represented, for example, by a sensorized tile (i.e., a tile in which sensors are disposed to sense presence). When the user is positioned on the sensorized tile, his or her presence is detected by the sensor and the information provided to the processor of the network roundtable 350.

[0241] According to the embodiment presented in FIG. 35A-B second seats 352 are not moving on or with respect to each other. The person skilled in the art will however be able to adapt the computer-implemented method, hereinafter described, to this case as well.

[0242] With reference to FIG. 35A-B, each of the second seats 352 comprises a seat sensor. The seat sensor of second seats 352 can be of the same type of the seat sensor of the first seat 351, as described above. In some embodiments the first and the second seats can have different types of seat sensors.

[0243] According to the present invention, the computer-implemented method for matching users in a networking roundtable 350, comprises the steps described hereinafter.

[0244] The following method is advantageously executed by a processor. The processor can be a processor of the control unit (not shown) of the network roundtable 350.

[0245] in the first step a of the method, the seat sensors 351 and 352 are activated for detecting the presence of users. In FIGs. 35A and B, seats are represented as white ovals and, seats occupied by a user are colored in black.

[0246] After that step, or even before it if an assisted computer vision system is used, it is determined if seat sensors 351. 352 reveal the presence of a first user 351u on the first seat 351 and the presence of al least a second user 352u on one of the second seats 352 (step b).

[0247] After the presence arrangement of the users, i.e. how users are disposed on seats 351 and 352, the roundtable 350’ is moved (step d), as exemplarily shown by passing from FIG. 35A to FIG. 35B. In this way, it is possible to move the plurality of second seats 352 for bringing one of the second seats 352, having the seat sensor revealing the presence of a second user 352o, in a predetermined coupling zone 353 around the first seat 351. A predetermined coupling zone 353 is schematically shown grey in FIGs. 35A and 8, and represents a predetermined area defined around or in proximity to the first seat 351 sufficiently close to the first user to enable contact, for example eye contact, between the first user 351u and the second user 352u who sits on a seal that is approaching the first user 351u.

[0248] The predetermined coupling zone 353 can have any shape and can be different for different seats. In some embodiments not represented, the area of the predetermined coupling zone 353 is determined in an additional step of the method performed by the processors) of the networking roundtable.

[0249] in this way it is possible to enable the match between the first 351 u and the second 352u user, as shown in FIG.

[0250] 35B.

[0251] In some embodiments, step b for revealing the presence arrangement is performed after step d. For example, in the case in which the presence arrangement is changed over time.

[0252] Advantageously step d of moving the plurality of second seats is repeated until all the second seats 352 occupied by a user 352u have reached the predetermined coupling zone 353 in this way first user 351 matches all users 352u seating on the plurality of second seats 352.

[0253] For making the process more efficient in terms of time and energy saved, and also for avoiding creating redundancies in matchings, step e is preferably performed before step d.

[0254] Step e is about prioritizing the movements of the plurality of second seats 352. Advantageously, the prioritization of the movement of the roundtable 350’ is made following a predetermined criteria.

[0255] More advantageously, the matching criteria can be adjusted in real time, if the presence arrangement of the users 35 lu and 352u changes over time or in a single session. A session is defined as the set of movements necessary for allowing to each user, revealed by the presence arrangement at a certain moment defined as t = 0 (a “starting moment”), to match all the other ones.

[0256] Advantageously the prioritization (step e) is made:

[0257] ■ maximizing the number of different matches between the first user 351u and the users 352u occupying the plurality of second seats 352, and

[0258] ■ minimizing the numbers of repetitions of step d required for moving the plurality of second seats 352 for matching the first user 351 u with all users 352u sitting on the plurality of second seats 352.

[0259] Optionally, the prioritization can also be made by maximizing the number of common further parameters associated to a pair of users 351 u and 352u.

[0260] Further parameters are parameters associated to each user. Further parameters are for example: gender, age, sexual orientation or sex, city of residence, hobbies, profession, employment status, interests, and purpose in being matched.

[0261] In some embodiments, the prioritizing step c comprising the sub -steps of:

[0262] cl determining the actual position of the plurality of second seats 352 relative to the first seat 351; c2.l) determining which seat sensors of the plurality of second seats 352 are active, or in a different state, for determining the presence arrangement of the plurality of second seats 352:

[0263] c3)for each of the second seats 352 occupied by a user 352u, determining all the positions which can be assumed by a second seat 352 in respect to the first seat in order to determine the distance between the first seat 351 and the second seat 352, wherein each position of each second seat 352 defines a configuration C;

[0264] c4) selecting the second seat 352 with the configuration C with the shortest distance from the first seat 351. For example, in FIG. 35A, it is represented a presence arrangement in which two users 352u are seating in two of the four seats 352. The distance between the seat n = 0 and the first user 351 u is indicated as dl, while the distance between the seat n = 3 and the first user 351u is indicated as d2, wherein d2 is greater than dl. Thus, the first match for bringing seat with n = 0 in front of the first user will happen according to d I, as shown in FIG.35B.

[0265] Hereinafter a prioritization algorithm is disclosed in more detail for performing the prioritization step e.

[0266] Advantageously, the matching method, after step d, further comprises step e.

[0267] Step e is about eliminating, or recording as accomplished, the configuration determined in sub-step c4, after the match between the first user 351 u on the first seat 351 and the second user 352u on the second seat 352 was made, according to said sub-step c4 configuration.

[0268] According to this step, and referring to FIG. 35B just as an example, configuration Cl is eliminated in step e. This step is performed for avoiding that the same match is made again, The same pairing can occur, but only when, for promoting a match that has not yet been made, it is necessary to propose the same match for some seats. That can happen when second seats 352 are fixed on the roundtable 350’ (so that the relative position between seconds seats cannot be changed - for example, they cannot be rotated), so that the match cannot be avoided. That can occur, for example, when there are more than one first seat 351, or the presence arrangement changes over time. Advantageously, for having all users 351 u and 352u matched, steps c, d and e are repeated until all configurations Ci are eliminated / recorded.

[0269] In some embodiments, user 35 lu and / or 352u can decide to avoid a specific pairing, in this case the specific configuration C will be recorded and eliminated by the processors, as requested by the user.

[0270] in some embodiments, users can interact with the networking roundtable 350 and provide some inputs, so that some parameters are recorded or modified in order to be considered in the prioritization step c and make possible one or more matches as requested by users.

[0271] Advantageously, the method provides the step of avoiding / skipping seats that are empty. For reaching that, the method according to the present invention can comprise the step of moving the plurality of second seats 352 so that the empty second seat does not stop in the predetermined coupling zone 353. This step is performed when one of the second seats 352 of said plurality is within the predetermined coupling zone 353 of the first seat 351, and the seat sensor of the first and the second seat are not activated, so that no users are sitting on the first and the second seat within the predetermined coupling zone. In this case, both the first 351 and the faced second seat 352 are empty. in some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of showing a message or a video for a predetermined period of time to a user 35 lu or 352 u when a second seat 352 of said plurality is within the predetermined coupling zone 353 and the seat sensor of the first 351 and the second seat 352 are in two different states, so that one seat is occupied and the other one is empty. In this case the user is defined as an unmatched user, because there is no match between two users, due to one seat which is empty, and the faced seat which is occupied by a user. Such situation is, for example, represented in FIG. 35A.

[0272] Advantageously, and as represented in FIG. 35A, and in FIG. 1A, a matching is made when the first user is in front of the second user. In some other embodiments the relative position between the first and the second user can be different. That could be the case in which more than two users are matched together.

[0273] Advantageously, the second seats 352 are programmed to move of a predetermined distance and / or angular position, for example, as shown in FIG.35A, wherein the displacement between one second seat and the other is 90°. This is made considering 360°. second seats, that in the represented case are 4 seats. After one rotation of 90°, the second user on seat n = 0 is brought in front of the first user (as shown in FIG.35B, and after another rotation of 90°, the other user on second seat with n ~ 1 would be brought in front of the first user).

[0274] Advantageously, in some embodiments, the speed of the roundtable 350’, and of the second seat 352, is slowed down when a second seat 352 of said plurality enters within a predetermined coupling zone 353. In this way the safety of the users can be guaranteed.

[0275] Advantageously, when, the first user 351u is matched with a second user 352u, the plurality of second seats 352 remains in the same position for a predetermined period of time, in this way it is possible for the first and the second user to exchange a few words and spend some time together.

[0276] To ensure an egalitarian process, the period of time dedicated for each matching can be fixed to be equal for each matching. In this case, the predetermined period of lune is based on the number of first and second seats occupied by a user, so that the predetermined period of time is equal for each combination of matched users. In some embodiments, step d of moving the plurality of second seats 352, is performed when a trigger from one of the users is received by a control unit / processor of the networking roundtable. For example, this is the case in which one user decided to skip a matching. In some embodiments, the trigger is one of those that allows the user to choose direction and / or speed of the movement of the plurality of second seats. Activating a trigger, or in some other cases, moving the roundtable, the pairing between two users can be forced or avoided.

[0277] In some other embodiments, the trigger can be represented by an input signal or a parameter’s change made by the user. This is the case in which the user interacts with a display, or a user interface, for setting some prioritization criteria.

[0278] In some embodiments, the method according to the present invention for matching users, comprises the step of displaying information about one user to the other paired / matohed user, for facilitating the dialogue between the users.

[0279] In some embodiments, the method for matching users, according to the present invention, comprises the step of activating a payment device. This can be the case in which some services are provided to the users. For example, some food can be served to users, or some digital services can be enabled after the payment of a fee / subscription.

[0280] According to the present invention, some embodiments may present more than one first seats 351, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1 or 9. In this case the method for matching user is similar to the previous one, just described, with some other steps implemented to repeat the process for each of the first seats 351 of a plurality of first seats. This case is now described.

[0281] In particular, in this case steps from a) to e) are analogous to the previous ones and are not described here again. In the case in which the networking roundtable comprises a plurality of first seats 351, the method for matching users further comprises the step of determining the presence arrangement of the first seats of said plurality (step f).

[0282] In addition, for all the first seats, there is a step for simulating the repetition of steps c), d), e) in order to determine the configuration C which reduces the number of unmatched users (step g).

[0283] After the prioritization criteria are defined, the plurality of second seats is brought in a predetermined coupling zone around the first seats of said plurality for enabling matchings between first and second users (step h).

[0284] When, there are more than one first seat 351, it is important to simulate all the possible movements / configurations that the plurality of second seats can made, for determining the best configuration which maximizes the matchings among users and / or matches the input parameters and triggers made, or activated, by the users. It is necessary to implement the method in a computer to determine the best configuration due to the circumstances, ensuring that all users can matching the other ones, and an egalitarian process is performed, reducing waste of time and energy.

[0285] in some embodiments, the prioritization criteria can be defined to make some choices of the roundtable’s processor more relevant than the choices of the users, or vice versa. That can be the case in which the integrity of the networking roundtable is monitored In this case, some further sensors can detect structural parameter(s) of the roundtable and send this data to the processor of the networking roundtable for being processed.

[0286] In the case in which more than one first seat 351 is present, step e of prioritizing further comprises sub-step e2.2 of determining which seat sensors of the plurality of first seats 351 are active, or in a different state, for determining the presence arrangement of the plurality of first seats 351, wherein the presence arrangement is defined by the seats of the plurality of first seats 351 which are occupied by a user, analogously to the determination of the presence arrangement for the second seats 352 described above.

[0287] In some embodiments, the number of first seats 351 is equal to the number of second seats 352, so that each first seat always faces one of the second seats, and no users remains unmatched when ail seats are occupied.

[0288] Advantageously, when the first seats in said plurality are equally spaced and the second seats in said plurality are equally spaced, it is possible to make every seat position predictable when only one position of one seat is known.

[0289] In some embodiments, after step b, the method further comprises the step of disconnecting sensors of the first seats of said plurality which are not occupied by a user, so that the empty first seats can be removed and the movement(s) of the plurality of second seats can be based on the number of the remaining first seats of said plurality, in this way. it is possible to have the external circle of seats (i.e. plurality of first seats) always full, for speeding up the matching among users.

[0290] According to some embodiments, when a variation in the presence arrangement in the plurality of first or second seats is detected by control unit / processor of the networking roundtable, all steps of the method described above are performed again.

[0291] Now it is described an example of an algorithm that can be used to determine the movements of the roundtable 3501, according to priority criteria. The logic of the algorithm is sorted by priority.

[0292] According to some embodiments, each seat 351 and 352 has a position degree which makes every other seat position predictable, simply by adding (360c’) / (n seats) to each position. The seats are indexed from 0 to n-1 on the inside (rotating) and on the outside (static) circle. It gives a total of 2*n seats.

[0293] A possible algorithm can be represented like this:

[0294] phase I: if there are no people on either inside seats (second seats) or outside seats (first seats) of the networking roundtable, then do nothing;

[0295] phase 2: if a last iteration was made, and if the previous configuration of presence sensors did not change from last iteration, then skip all steps of phase 3 except step dd, ee, and ff;

[0296] phase 3: if there is at least one person on the inside seats (second seats) and one person on the outside seats (first seats) then:

[0297] aa. process the data from seat sensors in order to define the presence arrangement; bb. process the angular position of the seats by taking the data from step aa to put the seats and the angular position in a correlation, in order to determine how large are the distances between the current configuration and all the other configurations. There are n configurations of the inside seats (second seats) and every one of them faces the outside seats (first seats) differently. The method indexes every configuration from 0 to n-1 seats;

[0298] cc. process the configurations by simulating every' position (in this example 4 positions). Configurations will be rated based on the number of matches. If no match is made in the simulation, the configuration will be removed (so that it will be never chosen as a match) from the configuration list, in this way, the virtual positions of the inside seats (second seals) are compared with the outside seats (first seats);

[0299] dd. from jhe fi ltered configurations of the previous step, based on the current position of the angle sensor, take the shortest path to the next configuration which makes a match;

[0300] ee. set the matches already made to zero, so it isn’t prioritized by the program again;

[0301] ff. if ah configurations are equal to 0, then all matches have been made.

[0302] If the roundtable is in standby (i.e. if everybody has remained seated how they

[0303] were), go back to step cc, otherwise return to step aa.

[0304] If a new person sits down and everyone else remains m the same position, then re-reads sensor (step aa) and continues with all the other steps.

[0305] An example for phase 3, described above, is represented in FIGs. 36A-I. In Shis example are proposed 4 seats on each side (i.e. 4 first seats and 4 second seats).

[0306] 1 means “occupied” and 0 means “not occupied”.

[0307] The presence arrangement • to be defined in step aa ■ can be represented as a vector in this way:

[0308] rotating seats (second seats) ~ static seals (first seats) ~

[0309] [seat 0 = I [seat.. O - 0

[0310] seat l ■ 0 seat 1 ~ 1

[0311] seat 2 — 0 scat 2 = I

[0312] seat__3 ~ 0] seat_3 = 0]

[0313] This arrangement is represented in FIG.36A,

[0314] The configurations - to hs defined in step hb - can be processed like this:

[0315] L read the seats electronically in a specific moment to define the 0thconfiguration, independent from the current position. For example, ConfigurationJ) associated to the second seats, and represented in FIG.

[0316] 36A, is: Configuration^ ~ [1, 0,0,0]

[0317] ii. perform a bit-shift operation to the right or left. For example, if Configuration^© is bit shifted once to the right, it appears like this: [, 1, 0, 0] C>;

[0318] iii. because one of the seats is now outside of the information list, the one missing information could become corrupted, so reintroduce the seat to fill the blank space, moving the last 0 in the blank space. Configuration 0 now appears like this: [0, 1, 0, 0];

[0319] iv. rename the new configuration to become an independent configuration from Configuration,©. For example: Configuration _0 becomes Configuration _l = [0, 1, 0, 0]; Configuration..! is represented in FIG. 36B;

[0320] v. The process from ii to iv is repeated n-1 times resulting in this configuration list: [Configuration

[0321] Configuration

[0322] Configuration

[0323] Configuration

[0324]

[0325] Configuration 2 is represented in FIG. 36C and Configuration_3 is represented in FIG.36D, respectively. These configurations are filtered in step ec, for example, as follows:

[0326] (First example) Configuration _0 — [1, 0, 0, 0]

[0327] Outside seats = [0, 1, 1, 0]

[0328] Matches ~ [0, 0, 0, 0] that corresponds to say that no matches happens in any pair of seats.

[0329] (Second example) Configuration_l - (0, 1, 0, 0]

[0330] Outside_seats — [0, I, 1, 0]

[0331] Matches ~ [0, 1, 0, 0] that corresponds to say that I match happens between the second seat with n = 0 and first seat with n = I, as shown in FIG.36B.

[0332] If this process is repeated for all the configurations the situation can be represented like this:

[0333] [Configuration ^ compared =:0 matches,

[0334] Configuration! compared = I match,

[0335] Configuration^ compared ~ 1 match,

[0336] Con figuration 3 compared = 0 matches].

[0337] In this case configurations 0-3 represent different positions of the second seats (rotating seats) with respect to the outer seats (first seats) that remains static, as shown in FIGs. 36A-D and summarized in FIG. 36E-F.

[0338] In step dd, the algorithm can, for example, proceed like this:

[0339] i. What is the current configuration?

[0340] Configuration 0. corresponding to angular position of 0°, considering the second seat with n =■■ 0 as the position with 0".

[0341] ti. What is the closest match?

[0342] Current position for Configuration^) is 0*360*74 seats ~ 0°

[0343] (1stcandidate) Configuration!: 1*360*74 seats = 90°

[0344] Difference in angles between Configuration _0 and Configuration-!:

[0345]

[0346] ) mod 360 s 270° mod 360 Take the output and subtract it from 360°: (360°-270°) mod 360 = 90° mod 360

[0347] So that, the first calculation is a difference in backward direction and the second is in forward direction. That means, it is either 90° forwards or 270° backwards for configuration I. The movements forward and backward are, respectively, represented in FIGs.36E-F.

[0348] iii. Configuration-!: 1 position forward

[0349] 3 positions backward

[0350] Configuration 2: 2 positions foiward

[0351] 2 positions backward

[0352] Final output: 1 position forward, i.e. Configuration 1 is the closest match. This situation is represented in FIG. 36G.

[0353] For performing step ee, the algorithm c n, for example, set this:

[0354] Coni E tiration 1 sees chose!, to match (attd second scars can rotate):

[0355] ii. Set Configuration! 0 matches;

[0356] iii. Will not be included in step dd in the next cycle.

[0357] This situation is represented in FIG. 3«H.

[0358] At -his point the process is repeated again, sc- that Configuration 2 can be analyzed for determining the closest match and rotate the roundtable, as schematically shown in FIG.361.

[0359] hi some embodiments, more than one algorithm for moving the seats is present. For example, in some embodiments, two algorithms (one called as “moderated autonomous algorithm” and one named as “standby algorithm”) are present and use a different logic chain but end up in the same sequence in the system / processor of matching the seats through presence sensors.

[0360] The standby algorithm is used, for example, for aligning the second seats to the first seats, regardless the presence of the users on the seats. When the presence of users is detected, than the method for matching users is performed, as disclosed above.

[0361] The moderated autonomous algorithm performs tsie same steps of the sitethod for matening users disclosed above, but some of the steps of the method are performed only when a trigger and / or an input is received by the control unit / processor of the roundtable. The trigger and / or an input is determined by an action of one or more of the users sitting on the first and / or second seats of the networking roundtable.

[0362] The present invention also relates to a networking roundtable. One preferred embodiment of the networking rouEidtable, adapted for the scope of the inventions represented in FIGs. 37A-G.

[0363] As shown in FIGs.37 -G the network roundtable 370 comprises a first frame 371 fixed to, or disposed on, a reference plane, such as a floor, and a second frame 372 placed over the first frame and movable on the first frame 371. The network roundtable also comprises a plurality of sensorized seals placed over the second frame (ru>t represented in FIGs.37). These seats are movable in respect to one or more first seats (not represented).

[0364] The network roundtable 370 comprises a control unil / processor configured to implement the method of matching users described above. The network roundtable 370 is easily movable over the floor / ground, and this is due to the structure made with a first 371 and a second 372 frame,

[0365] Advantageously, the second frame 372 comprises a platform 3721, preferably circular. The platform 3721 comprises a first 3721 A and a second 72 IB surface, and the first surface is opposite to the second surface. On the first surface 3721 A are hosted a plurality of seats, which represents, for example, the plurality of second seats 352. The second frame 372 also comprises a rack support frame 3722 attached on the second surface 372 IB of the platform 372! for supporting a rack 373, a plurality of casters / rollers 374 attached on the second surface 372 IB of the platform 372! and a support structure 375 intended to represent the rolling base for the plurality of casters / rollers 74.

[0366] Advantageously, the support structure 375 is fixed to the first frame 371. Then a rack 373, preferably circular, is used to guide, by a motor 376, the support structure 375 along a predetermined path, for making the plurality of second seats 352 movable in respect to the plurality of first seats 351.

[0367] fa some embodiments seats of the plurality of second seat, and / or first seat, can be substituted with a disposition device. A disposition device is for example, a seating or a standing support and / or a counter / table arrangement.

[0368] In some embodiments, the disposition device is realized as a sensorized area adapted for revealing the presence of a user.

[0369] According to some embodiments of the invention the system comprises a roundtable network.

[0370] In some embodiments, the system comprises a roundtable network and a control unit. According to some embodiments, the control unit advantageously implements a method for matching users in a networking roundtable.

[0371] A computer-implemented method for matching users is provided according to the invention, as disclosed above. The term engagement can be considered a synonym of matching.

[0372] A control unit can be considered a synonym of processor or control system or controller if it is in accordance with the description. A control unit can be configured to apply or implement an algorithm. The algorithm can be defined as a sequence of steps of a matching method.

[0373] Advantageously a controller comprises a processor for executing a computer-implemented method for matching users according to the invention.

[0374] JTGs. 38A to 47H are much more related to decorative aspects of alternative embodiments of the roundtable, and seats of the roundtable, according to the invention.

[0375] Referring now to FiGs. 38A-43I-I and 44A-47H, different embodiments of the roundtable and different embodiments of first and / or second seats according to the invention are presented, respectively.

[0376] In FIGs.38A-38E is represented a network roundtable 380 comprising a platform 380’, preferably of circular shape, on which are placed a plurality of first seats 381 and a plurality of second seats 382. Platform 380’ is configured to rotate around a center CC of rotation, advantageously placed at the center of platform 380’, as shown in FIG.38C.

[0377] A plurality of first seats 381 is fixed, or attached, at a predetermined first distance dd 1 from the center CC of rotation of the platform 380’. The plurality of first seats 381 is fixed or attached on a tatic section 3801 of the platform 380’. The static section 3801 of the platform 380’ is static with reference to a movable section 3802 of the platform. Advantageously, the second section 3802 of the platform 380’ is concentric to the first section 380 s of the platform 380’.

[0378] Advantageously, the entire platform 380’ is movable on the ground, to be easily transported in different places.

[0379] A second plurality of seats 382 is placed on a movable section 3802 of the platform 380’, at a predetermined second distance dd2 from the center CC of rotation of the platform. In this way the plurality of second seats 382 can rotate so that each seat of the plurality of second seats 382 can face a different seal 381 of the plurality of first seats, according to the invention. In FIGs. 38A-E, the first distance ddl is greater than the second distance dd2.

[0380] In some other embodiments, asst represented, the first distance ddl is smaller than the second distance dd2, so that the plurality of second seat 382 is maintained in a fixed position with respect to the ground and the plurality of hrst seats 381 is movable around the second seats 382.

[0381] Advantageously each seat of the plurality' of first seats 381 comprises a sound barrier 383 for improving the privacy between two users during the matching. Different shapes and / or materials of the sound barriers 383 can be used.

[0382] Advantageously, between each seat 382 of the plurality of second seats is placed a sound barrier 384 for improving the privacy between two users during the matching. Different shapes and / or materials of the sound barriers cats be used.

[0383] Advantageously seats of the plurality of first or and / or second seats present a table 385. More advantageously tables 385 are foldable tables for facilitating the accommodation of users.

[0384] An embodiment analogous to the embodiment of FIGs. 3SA-E, is represented in FIGs, 42A-E, wherein the sound barrier 383 presents a squared shape.

[0385] A different embodiment of the roundtable according to the invention is presented in FIGs. 39A-E, wherein the seats of the of ‘he plurality of first and second seats don’t present a table 385.

[0386] Referring now to FIGs. 46A-E, only a plurality of second seats 402 is placed on the movable section 4002 of the platform 400’ of the roundtable 400, while the sialic section 4001 of the platform remains in an unchanged position with respect to the movable section 4002 during use. In this embodiment, the static section 4001 of the platform can present a sensorized section 403 to reveal the presence / absence of users. In some other embodiments, not represented, section 4001 is movable, and section 4002 is static with respect to the other section 4001 of the platform 400’, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0387] Advantageously the seats present foldable tables and sounds barriers.

[0388] An embodiment analogous to the embodiment of FIGs. 48A-E, is represented in FIGs. 43A-E, wherein sound barriers present a squared shape.

[0389] An embodiment similar to the embodiment of FIGs.40A-E, but without foldable tables, is represented in FIGs. 41A-E.

[0390] In FIGs. 44A-H is represented an embodiment of a seat used for the networking roundtable according to the invention. The seat presents a table in front of the user and a sound barrier placed on one side of the seat for isolating the user and his / her matching user by all the other ones. In FIGs. 46A-H the sound barrier presents a different shape, preferably a squared shape.

[0391] Other analogous embodiments are presented in the subsequent figures. In FIGs. 45A-H and 47 -H the seat doesn’t present the table.

[0392] Referring now to FIG. 48, in another embodiment adapted to match the profiles of users, a flow chart of steps of a method 4800 of an alternate means of matching profiles is described, in a first step 4802, the seat positions are inioalized once so that the system knows which seats are where. This step need not be repeated as long as the same configuration of seats is used. In a second step 4804, a user takes a seat and scans a bar code or QR code or reads a number 4803 associated with their seat. In a third step 4806, a profile matching a p 4900 accesses a dynamic state database 4807 to check whether that user is facing an identified other user having profile data. In a fourth step 4810, if the user is facing another user, and provided that each user has granted permission io the app to compare certain profile data, profile data is compared. In a fifth step 4812, information which is triggered based on this profile data, optionally including the common profile information and / or interests, is displayed by the app on the mobile device of the user tn engagement or on a computer screen mounted on one or both seats thereby allowing each user to be instantly informed of the information that each user shares in common (the formatioti would typically be the same for each user), such as favorite sport,

[0393]

[0394] mater, or other interest. In a sixth step 4814, at the end of the set time io chat, users are given the opportunity to connect, share contact information, and optionally save the common profile data together with the contact in an expandable window entitled, for example, “What we have in common”. In a seventh step 4816, the app awaits a change in state (triggered by movement of the disposition system) in which another user is facing the original user and the method repeats its steps 4804 to 4816. In an eighth step 4818, the app ends or goes into a standby state

[0395] In more detail, because the disposition device disposes a set number of seats in chain fashion in front of another set number of seats, whether a conveyor system or a carousel system is used, when the system knows the position of one seat with respect to another facing seat, the system knows the positions of all seats in the device. Therefore, in this embodiment, a simple means of identifying a facing seat is required. Although that means cart be mechanical (e.g. through gearing between the fixed and moving seat carriages) or a combination of mechanical and audio, practically speaking, that means is preferably a bar code reader or QR code reader or simple optical character recognition device 4801 on one seat whose identify is known which scans the bar code or QR code or reads a number 4803 associated with a facing seat. The latter configuration makes assembly simpler because there need not he any mechanical alignment between seats or any specific seat location in order that the mechanism knows which seat is facing which seat. Consequently, in a preferred embodiment, an ini tializing step 4802 is performed upon assembly of •he device preferably using a scanner 4805 that reads a facing seat’s code, in which the device goes through at least one cycle in which the scanner reads the seat identifiers on facing seats and sends this data to the controller 512 having memory which stores such data in a database table of a database 4807. Advantageously, after this initialization step 4802, the database 4807 knows through comparing code data with registered device data, where each individual seat is located in the world, so that any repair order that is made which includes the code 4803 of the seat, that seat cart be located for repair or replacement. The code 4803 typically includes the device serial number or customer number and the seat serial number. After the initialization step 4802 is completed, for the sake of simplicity, each seat is assigned a simple identifier, such as Ol, for outside seat one, and 11 for inside seat one and a dynamic state table 4809§ which updates relative seat positions based on the scanned data received as seats change relative positions. As is known, once initialized, fixed seats do not change position relative to other fixed seats on the device. Also, once initialized, moving seats do not change position relative lo other moving seats, and so the dynamic state table 4809 can be created as follows, assuming that outer seat 1 has been found through scanning to be facing inner seat 3 and that an 8 X 8 (8 fixed and 8 moving) seat configuration has been initialized:

[0396]

[0397] Table 1 - 4809

[0398] The above table’s data is updated as the relative position of seats changes by indexing or by relocating based on the new scanned seat positions. Using the app 5080 of the invention, the seat code of a seat in which a user is seated or the code of a facing seat is scanned by the user upon seating in a particular seat. Each seat may have two codes 4803, optionally identical codes or otherwise different codes associated with the same seat, located at different locations to facilitate scanning (to avoid having to kneel down to scan, for example). Because the above state table 4809 knows which seat is located where, in order to locate where the user is seated, it doesn’t matter which code is scanned. Once scanned by the user using the app, the dynamic table 4809 can be updated with user data such that it knows which user is facing winch user. Hcso w is an example of the updated table 4809, now updated table 4810.

[0399]

[0400] ■fable 2 - 4810 Because the user moves with the seat, the table can be dynamically updated based on new seat scan data or the assumption that all users stay seated for a full cycle of the device, and so the system knows which user is facing which other user. In the above table 4810, in the second column, it is clear shtst user no. 782 is facing user no. 127. Because the app of the invention knows the profile data of each user, much of which preferably generated by asking “Yes or No” questions, such as “Do you ski?” or “Do you like to travel?” or “Do you enjoy fine dining?'' or “Do you enjoy smoking cigars?” or by identical biographical inputs like “Where were you bom?” or “What is your profession?”, the app then compares profile information and / or interests for which the users have given permission to compare and publish to others with similar profile data, and saves a table 4811 of common profile data and / or common interests (for example, generated when the answers to “Yes or No’’ questions is the same), which table information is formatted for display on the screen of the users' mobile devices or on a computer screen visible to the users in association with the user with whom they share the profile information and / or interests or on a computer screen visible to the users. In this way, each user facing another user can know what they have in common with the facing user (e.g. John Doe) and, if they opt to do so (by clicking a button on their touchscreen for this purpose), either or both users, using a share contact feature known in the art on websites such as “LINK-EDIN”™, can send a contact request to the facing user and vice versa, either during the ongoing engagement, or anytime afterwards. Optionally, the table of common profile data in association with each user wish which the user has common profile information and / or interests.

[0401]

[0402] I abie 3 -- 4811

[0403] Referring now io FJG. 49, the app 5000 of the invention includes the following several steps. In a first step 5002, the app and, optionally, web-based application form registers the user profile data and interests generated in response to a profile questionnaire. In a second step 5004, the app provides a means, such as scanning a QR code, bar code or bit code on each seat, to enable the user to register into a particular seat on the device 10, Fig. 3, 380, 500, 600, 700, SOO, 900, HMM), 1100, 1400, 1500, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2300, of the invention. In third step 5006, when the system, via the seat sensors and other user registration in step 5004 combined with a hah sensor / angie sensor combined with a means of knowing the absolute angular position of the device with respect to the inside carouse? and the outside seats, recognizes a registered user is facing another registered user, then when both users have given permission to compare and share common interests, display the same, preferably with basic biographical date of the counterpart, such information is compared and common interests combined with certain biographical data is shared with the other registered user, displayed on the user’s personal computing device such as their smartphone. Optionally, Al ay also be tapped into to provide suggestions about how both registered users might collaborate, in a fourth step 5010, the app provides the ability io connect with the other registered user optionally saved together with common profile data and interests, in a fifih step 5012, the app returns to step 5006. This app advantageously requires a user to register themselves in the system just once, and every other registered user with whom they speak the can connect to without having io scan another user-specific QR or other code.

[0404] In another embodiment which may be combined with all embodiments described herein includes a timer (not shown) which receives the input of the time period for which face-to-face engagement is limited and counts this time down on a display, such as a digital display positioned so that at least one of the two persons engaged in a face-to-face relationship can see the time lapsing and so know how much time remains before the next engagement will be made through foe movement of the device of the invention. A suitable timer position is next to the siren mounted at the top center of the device of the invention.

[0405] Referring again to f'iG. 22 and now to FIGs. 50A to 50G as well as FIGs. 51 A io SIG, a sound-directing and shielding hood 2202, 2202’, is generally of circular cross section and parabolic form in which the central axis of she parabolic form is centered on a line along which it is anticipated that the head of a user will be located. This adaptable to essentially ail seats shown in the instant application, ensures that the conversation is directed, audible and essentially confidential.

[0406] Referring now to FIG. 52, in another embodiment, the invention is embodied in a robotic platform 5208 on which a chair 982 or any other item adapted to fit thereon, can be placed thereon and moved along a path as described in the present patent application.

[0407] For ah software methods described herein, such methods should be considered as being comprised In a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the method’s steps or operations.

[0408] The invention relates to a computer-implemented method and a network roundtable including at least the foliowing feature sets

[0409] 1. A computer-implemented method for matching users in a networking roundtable, preferably circular, wherein the networking roundtable comprises at least one first seat with a seat sensor, the first seat is preferably fixed in a position with respect to a plurality of second seats, wherein the plurality of second seats is movable with respect to the first seat, and wherein each of the second seats comprises a seat sensor, a sensor associated with a seat defines a seat sensor, the method comprising the steps of:

[0410] a) activating the seat sensors for detecting the presence of users; b) determining if seat sensors are revealing the presence of a first user on the first seat and at least a second user on one of the second seats of said plurality:

[0411] d) moving the plurality of second seats for bringing one of the second seats having the seat sensor revealing the presence of a second user in a predetermined coupling zone around the first seat for enabling the match between the first and the second user.

[0412] A computer-implemented method according to feature set I wherein the step d) of moving the plurality of second seats is repeated until all the second seats occupied by a user have reached the predetermined coupling zone, so that the first user matches all users seating on the plurality of second seats,

[0413] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 2 wherein the method further comprises, preferably before step d), the step of:

[0414] c) prioritizing the movements of the plural by of second seats for:

[0415] - maximizing the number of different matches between the first user and the users occupying the plurality of second seats, and

[0416] - minimizing the numbers of repetitions of step d) required for moving the plurality' of second seats for matching the first user with ail users silting on the plurality of second seats, and

[0417] •• optionally, maximizing the number of common further parameters associated to a pair of users, wherein the further parameters are parameter associated to each user.

[0418] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 3 wherein the prioritizing step c) comprising the sub -steps of:

[0419] cl) determining the actual position of the plurality of second seats relative to the first seat; e2.1) determining which seat sensors of the plurality of second seats are active, or in a different state, for determining the presence arrangemenl of the plurality of second seats, wherein the presence arrangement is defined by the seats of the plurality of second seats which are occupied by a user;

[0420] c3) for each of the second seats occupied by a user, determining all the positions which can be assumed by a second seat in respect to the firs- seat in order to determine the distance between the first seat and the second seat, wherein each position of each second seat defines a configuration:

[0421] c4) selecting the second seat with the configuration with the shortest distance from the first seat.

[0422] A computer- implemented method according to feature set I and 4, wherein after step d) the method further comprises step e) of eliminating, or recording as accomplished, the configuration selected in sub-step c4) after the match between the first user on the first seat and the second user on the second seat was made in accordance to said configuration determined in sub-step c4). A computer-implemented method according to the preceding feature set, wherein steps c), d) and e) are repeated until ail configurations are eliminated / recorded.

[0423] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1, wherein when one of the second seats of said plurality is within the predetermined coupling zone of the first seat, anti the seat sensor of the first and the second seat are not activated so that no users is sitting on the first and the second seat within the predetermined coupling zone, the plurality of second seats is moved so that the empty second seat doesn’t stop it! the predetermined coupling zone.

[0424] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1, wherein the method further comprises the step of showing a message or a video for a predetermined period of time to a user when a second seat of said plurality is within the predetermined coupling zone and the seat sensor of the first and the second seat are in two different states, so that one seat is occupied and the other one is empty, the user being defined as an unmatched user.

[0425] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1, wherein the match between the first and second user of step d) is made bringing one of second seat of said plurality in front of the first seat.

[0426] A computer-i plemented method according to feature set I wherein the movement of the plurality of second seats according to step d) is performed as a predetermined displacement and / or a predetermined angular rotation.

[0427] A computer-implemented method according to feature set I wherein the method further comprises the step of slowing down the speed of the plurality of second seats when a second seat of said plurality enters within a predetermined coupling zone.

[0428] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1 wherein, when the first user is matched with a second user, the plurality' of second seats remains in the same position for a predetermined period of time. A computer-implemented method according to the preceding feature set wherein the predetermined period of time is based on the number of first and second seats occupied by a user, so that the predetermined period of time is equal for each combination of matched users.

[0429] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1 wherein step d) is performed before step b). A computer-implemented method according to feature set I, wherein step d) is performed when a trigger from one of the users is received by a control unit / processor of the networking roundtable.

[0430] A computer-implemented method according to the preceding feature set, wherein the trigger is one of those that allows the user to choose direction and / or speed of the movement of the plurality of second seats. A computer-implemented method according to feature sei I wherein one or more seats are substituted with:

[0431] - standing support(s),

[0432] • counter / table arrangement(s), and / or

[0433] - predetermined areafs) adapted to be sensorized with sensors for revealing the presence of a user. A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1 wherein the seat sensors are pressure sensors, strain gauges, weight sensors, present-or-not-present toggle, optical sensors, optical sensors integrated with Al-module(s) for optimizing the data captured by the optical sensors, laser presence sensors, proximity sensors or a combination thereof.

[0434] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1 wherein the seat sensors are substituted with one or more machine vision devices, or one or more registration and deregistration systems, in order to determine presence / absence of a user in a predetermined coupling zone.

[0435] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1 wherein the method further comprises the steps of:

[0436] - displaying information about one user to the other paired / matched user, and / or

[0437] ■ activating a payment device.

[0438] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 1-6 wherein the first seat is part of a plurality of first seals, the method farther comprising the steps of:

[0439] f) determining the presence arrangement of the first seats of said plurality;

[0440] g) for all the first seats of said plurality, simulating the repetition of steps c), d), e) in order to determine the configuration which reduces the number of unmatched users;

[0441] h) moving the plurality of second seats for bringing the second seats of said plurality in a predetermined coupling zone around the first seats of said plurality for enabling matches between first and second users.

[0442] A computer-implemented method according to the preceding feature set, when depends to claim 4 wherein, step c) of prioritizing further comprises sub-step c2.2) of determining which seat sensors of the plurality of first seats are active, or in a different state, for determining the presence arrangement of the plurality of first tteats, wherein the presence arrangement is defined by the seats of the plurality of first seals which are occupied by a user.

[0443] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 21 wherein the number of first seals in said plurality and the number of second seats in said plurality is equal.

[0444] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 21, wherein the first seats in said plurality’ are equally spaced and the second seats in said plurality are equally spaced to make every' seat position predictable when only one position of one seat is known.

[0445] A computer-implemented method according to feature set 21, wherein after step b), the method further comprises the step of disconnecting sensors of the first seate of said plurality which are not occupied by a user, so that the empty first seats can be removed and the movements) of the plurality of second seats be based on the number of the remaining first seats of said plurality.

[0446] A computer-implemented method according to any one of the preceding feature sets 4, 21 or 22, wherein, when a variation in the presence arrangement in the plurality of first or second seats is detected by control unit / processor of the networking roundtable, all steps of the method according io anyone of the feature sets 1-25 are performed again for the firs- and / or second seatfs) for which the seat sensor detect a change in the presence of the user.

[0447] 27. A computer soft ware program implementing the steps of the method of any one of the preceding feature sets.

[0448] 28. A network roundtable comprising:

[0449] a first frame fixed to a reference plane, such as a floor,

[0450] a second frame placed over the first frame and movable on the first frame, a plurality of sensorized seats placed over the second frame, and

[0451] a control unit / processor configured to implement the method of any one of the preceding feature sets I -26.

[0452] 29. The network roundtable according to the previous feature set, wherein the second frame comprising:

[0453] a platform, preferably circular, comprising a first and a second surface, the first surface being opposite to the second surface, wherein the first surface is configured to host a plurality of seats, a rack support frame attached on the second surface of the platform for supporting a rack, a plurality of casters / rollers attached on the second surface of the platform, a support structure intended to represent the rolling base for the plurality of casters / rollers, the support structure being fixed to the first frame, and

[0454] a rack, preferably circular, io guide the support structure along a predetermined path.

[0455] In an advantage, the invention combines virtual reality with a physical reality, facilitating to know one another online first, if desired. In any case, the face-to-face contact is made using the app and / or the physical embodiment of the Invention nd encourages contact with persons wise are also physically proximate to one another, thereby better ensuring lasting personal connections and enabling off-line contact.

[0456] In another advantage, the invention presents at its core a means of bringing people of similar interests together face to face.

[0457] In another advantage, the invention facilitates the building of more meaningful relationships among people of like interests.

[0458] In an advantage, the invention facilitates networking in a manner which reduces awkward situations and provides discipline and efficiency in facilitating contact with a plurality of users.

[0459] In another advantage, the invention evens the playing field by putting shy persons, approximately 50% of the world’s population, on the same footing with extroverted, imposing or outgoing persons when it comes to making the initial contact with strangers.

[0460] In another advantage, the invention makes contact with others efficient by limiting the initial contact to a prescribed time period and providing multiple opportunities for contact.

[0461] In another advantage, the invention challenges the memory of the participants because they will soon be placed in front of others with whom they must continue a conversation that was broken off by the system’s movement. Fortunately, the console of the invention displays the name and points of common interest, as an aid to continue the conversation.

[0462] In an advantage, advertisers may then target members having the criteria that they specify.

[0463] Its an advantage, the system and method of the invention provides a quick and less resource intensive searching of a large number of users by eliminating the need to search all registered members which may be a number as high as a billion persons. Instead, tire search criteria is analyzed, and searching is limited to those whose codes or communities are already known to include one or more of the characteristics sought, if there is an exact match, then the searching member may ire introduced to an existing community.

[0464] In another advantage, the codes can be published, and users can use the codes on T-Shirts or other clothing articles to make clear that they are members of this community. For example, a T-Shirt with “1234” expresses a certain commitment to this community and allows others to readily identify themselves, even confidentially, because only members of the community represented on tire clothing need to know what tire code implies. Consequently, members can inconspicuously brand themselves so that they are identifiable by other members of the community. Other synergistic inventions such as wearable radio transponders that emit the code such that others who have a receiver in their proximity may be warned via a signal, even a directional indicator pointing to the other member, of the presence of someone who shares certain common interests with the member. Such a feature would make it very easy indeed for persons of common interests to meet spontaneously at sporting events or other public events for example.

[0465] in an advantage, where a person sees another with a certain code, they may note the code and go online, seeking membership in that community. A questionnaire that must be answered correctly filters access to tire community. The answers provided by the candidate member must be correct in order for that person to gain more information or seek membership in that community. The certain code may have a tag or add-on code that further identifies the user, so that if the person who sees the user wishes to contact that person, if they answer the questions correctly, they may be directed to a means of contacting that person in particular.

[0466] In an advantage, the system of the invention creates new markets for clothing or other items which may include the code or community identifier.

[0467] As will be appreciated by skilled artisans, the present invention may be embodied as a system, a device, or a method.

[0468] It should be noted that tire disposition system of the invention can easily cooperate with known networking apps in that, when users are placed in facing relationship, they can simply scan their counterpart’s QR code displayed on the known app and, by reading the user’s profile and interest information, learn what they have in common. This obviates the need to scan the seat because instead, a user would simply scan the other user’s QR code Nevertheless, the method described herein in which seats are scanned allows a user to scan just once and be automatically introduced to those with whom they are engaged, without having to scan other user’s QR codes again and again.

[0469] Moreover, the system contemplates the use, sale and / or distribution of any goods, services or information having similar functionality described herein. The specification and figures should be considered in an illustrative manner, rather than a restrictive one and all modifications described herein are intended to be included within the scope of the invention claimed. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should he determined by the appended claims (as they currently exist or as later amended or added, and their legal equivalents) rather than by merely the examples described above. Steps recited in any method or process claims, unless otherwise expressly stated, may be executed in any order and are not limited to the specific order presented in any claim. Further, the elements and / or components recited in apparatus claims may be assembled or otherwise functionally configured in a variety of permutations to produce substantially the same result as the present invention. Consequently, the invention should not be interpreted as being limited to the specific configuration recited in the claims.

[0470] Benefits, other advantages and solutions mentioned herein are not to be construed as critical, required or essential features or components of any or all the claims.

[0471] As used herein, the terms "comprises”, ’’comprising”, or variations thereof, are intended to refer to a nonexclusive listing of elements, such that any apparatus, process, method, article, or composition of the invention that comprises a list of elements, that does not include only those elements recited, but may also include other elements described in the instant specification. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the use of the lent) ’"consisting” or “consisting of’ or “consisting essentially of’ is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the enumerated elements named thereafter, unless otherwise indicated, Other combinations and / or modifications of the above-described elements, materials or structures used in the practice of the present invention may be varied or adapted by the skilled artisan to other designs without departing from the general principles of the invention.

[0472] The patents and articles mentioned above are hereby incorporated by reference herein, unless otherwise noted, to the extent that the same are not inconsistent with this disclosure.

[0473] Other characteristics and modes of execution of the invention are described in the appended claims.

[0474] Further, the invention should be considered as comprising all possible combinations of every feature described in the instant specification, appended claims, and / or drawing figures which may be considered new, inventive and industrially applicable.

[0475] Copyright may be owned by the Applicants) or their assignee and, with respect to express Licensees to third parties of the rights defined in one or more claims herein, no implied license is granted herein to use the invention as defined in the remaining claims. Further, vis-a-vis the public or third parties, no express or implied license is granted to prepare derivative works based on this patent specification.

[0476] Multiple variations and modifications are possible in the embodiments of the invention described here For instance, it is contemplated that a software app be provided 'which mimics the function of the invention in that participants who are screened for common interests are invited to spend a desired (preferably set) amount of time with each participant and the app then connects the participants successively with one another giving each participant a set amount of face time with each other. After this set time, the existing chat or connection is broken off and a new connection is established. Although certain illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and described here, a wide range of changes, modifications, and substitutions is contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. While the above description contains many specific details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather exemplify one or another preferred embodiment thereof, in some instances, some features of the present invention may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the foregoing description be construed broadly and understood as being illustrative only, the spirit and scope of the invention being limited only by the claims which ultimately issue in this application.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A computer-implemented method stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method having instructions when executed by a processor, for matching users in a networking roundtable, preferably circular, wherein the networking roundtable comprises at least one first seat with a seat sensor, the first seat is preferably fixed in a position with respect to a plurality of second seats, wherein the plurality of second seats is movable with respect to the first seat, and wherein each of the second seats comprises a seat sensor, a sensor associated with a seal defines a seat sensor, the method comprising the steps of:a) activating the seat sensors for detecting the presence of users;b) determining if seat sensors are revealing the presence of a first user on the first seat and at least a second user on one of the second seats of said plurality:d) moving the plurality of second seats for bringing one of the second seats having the seat sensor revealing the presence of a second user in a predetermined coupling zone around the first seat for enabling the match between tire first and the second user.

2. The computer-implemented method according to claim 1 wherein the step d) of moving the plurality of second seats is repeated until all the second seats occupied by a user have reached the predetermined coupling zone, so that the first user matches all users seating on the plurality of second seats.

3. The computer-implemented method according to claim 2 wherein the method further comprises, preferably before step d), the step of:c) prioritizing the movements of the plurality of second seats for:- maximizing the number of different matches between the first user and the users occupying the plurality of second seats, and- minimizing the numbers of repetitions of step d) required for moving the plurality of second seats for matching the first user with all users sitting on the plurality of second seats, and- optionally, maximizing the number of common fort her parameters associated to a pair of users, wherein the further parameters are parameter associated to each user4. The computer-implemented method according to claim 3 wherein the prioritizing step c) comprising the sub -steps of:cl) determining the actual position of the plurality of second seats relative to the first seat; c2.1) determining which seat sensors of the plurality of second seats are active, or in a different state, for determining the presence arrangement of the plurality of second seats, whereinthe presence arrangement is defined by the seats of tire plurality of second seats winch are occupied by a user;c3) for each of the second seats occupied by a user, determining all the positions which can be assumed by a second seat in respect to the first seat in order to determine the distance between the first seat and the second seat, wherein each position of each second seat defines a configuration;c4) selecting the second seat with the configuration with the shortest distance from the first seat.

5. The computer-implemented method according to claim I and 4, wherein after step d) the method further comprises step e) of' eliminating, or recording as accomplished, the configuration selected in sub-step c4) after the match between the first user on the first seat and the second user on the second seat was made in accordance to said configuration determined in sub-step c4),6. The computer-implemented method according to the preceding claim, wherein steps c), d) and e) are repeated until all configurations are eliminated / recorded.

7. The computer- implemented method according to claim I, wherein when one of the second seats of said plurality is within the predetermined coupling zone of the first seat, and the seat sensor of the first and the second seat are not activated so that no users is sitting on the first and the second seat within the predetermined coupling zone, the plurality of second seats is moved so that the empty second seat doesn’t stop in the predetermined coupling zone.S. The computer- 'implemented method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises the step of showing a message or a video for a predetermined period of rime to a user when a second seat of said plurality is within the predetermined coupling zone and the seat sensor of the first and the second seat are in two different states, so that one seat is occupied and the other one is empty, the user being defined as an unmatched user.9 The computer-implemented method according to claim 1. wherein the match between the first and second user of step d) is made bringing one of second seat of said plurality in front of the first seat10. The computer-implemented method according to ciaim I wherein the movement of the plurality of second seats according to step d) is performed as a predetermined displacement and / or a predetermined angular rotation.I I. The computer-implemented method according to claim 1 wherein the method further comprises the step of slowing down the speed of the plurality' of second seats when a second seat of said plurality enters within a predetermined coupling zone.

12. The computer-implemented method according to claim 1 wherein, when the first user is matched with a second user, the plurality' of second seats remains tn the same position for a predetermined period of time.

13. The computer-implemented method according to the preceding claim wherein the predetermined period of time is based on the number of first and second seats occupied by a user, so that the predetermined period of time is equal for each combination of matched users.

14. The computer-implemented method according to claim 1 wherein step d) is performed before step b).

15. The computer-implemented method according to claim 1, wherein step d) is performed when a trigger from one of the users is received by a control unit / processor of the networking roundtable.

16. The computer-implemented method according to the preceding claim, wherein the trigger is one of those that allows the user to choose direction and / or speed of the movement of the plurality of second seats.

17. The computer-implemented method according to claim 1 wherein one or more seats are substituted with:- standing support(s),- counter / table arrangement(s), and / or- predetermined area(s) adapted to be sensorized with sensors for revealing the presence of a user.1 §. The computer-implemented method according to claim I wherein the seat sensors are pressure sensors, strain gauges, weight sensors, present-or-not-present toggle, optical sensors, optical sensors integrated with Al- module(s) for optimize the data captured by the optical sensors, laser presence sensors, proximity sensors or a combination thereof.

19. The computer-implemented method according to claim I wherein the seat sensors are substituted with one or more machine vision devices, or one os’ more registration and deregistration systems, in order to determine presence / absence of a user in a predetermined coupling zone.

20. The computer-implemented method according to claim 1 wherein the method further comprises the steps of:- displaying information about one user to the other paired / matched user, and / or- activating a payment device.

23. The computer-implemented method according to claims 1-6 wherein the first seat is part of a plurality of first seals, the method further comprising the steps of:f) determining the presence arrangement of the first seats of said plurality;g) for all the first seats of said plurality, simulating the repetition of steps c), d), e) in order to determine the configuration which reduces the number of unmatched users;h) moving the plurality of second seats for bringing the second seats of said plurality in a predetermined coupling zone around the first seats of said plurality for enabling matches between first and second users.

22. The computer-implemented method according to the preceding claim, when dependent to claim 4 wherein, step c) of prioritizing further comprises sub-step c2.2) of determining which seat sensors of the plurality of first seats are active, or in a different state, for determining the presence arrangement of the plurality of first seats, wherein the presence arrangement is defined by the seats of the plurality of first seats which are occupied by23. The computer-implemented method according to claim 21 wherein the number of first seats in said plurality and the number of second seats in said plurality is equal.

24. The computer-implemented method according to claim 21, wherein the first seats in said plurality are equally spaced and the second seats in said plurality are equally spaced to make every seat position predictable when only one position of one seat is known.

25. The computer-implemented method according to claim 21, wherein after step b), the method further comprises the step of disconnecting sensors of the first seats of said plurality which are not occupied by a user, so that the empty first seats can be removed and the movement(s) of the plurality of second seats be based on the number of the remaining first seats of said plurality.

26. The computer-implemented method according to any one of the preceding claims 4, 21 or 22, wherein, when a variation in the presence arrangement in the plurality of first or second seats is detected by control unit / processor of the networking roundtable, all steps of the method according to anyone of the claims 1-25 are performed again for the first and / or second seat(s) for which the seat sensor detect a change in the presence of the user.

27. The computer software program implementing the steps of the method of any one of the preceding claims.

23. A network roundtable comprising:a first frame fixed to a reference plane, such as a floor,a second frame placed over the first frame and movable on the first frame.a plurality of sensorized seats placed over the second frame, anda control unit processor configured to implement the method of any one of the preceding claims 1-26.

29. The network roundtable according to the previous claim, wherein the second frame comprising:a platform, preferably circular, comprising a first and a second surface, the first surface being opposite to the second surface, wherein the first surface is configured to host a plurality of seats, a rack support frame attached on the second surface of the platform for supporting a rack, a plurality of casters / rollers atached on the second surface of the platform, a support structure intended to represent the rolling base for the plurality of casters / rollers, the support structure being fixed to the first frame, anda rack, preferably circular, to guide the support structure along a predetermined path.

30. A chair adapted to face another chair, wherein the chair includes includes a sound gathering / isolating bonnet located around an area in which a head of a user may be disposed,31. The chair of claim 30, wherein the bonnet of the chair is transparent so as to minimize blocking of the view by adjacently seated participants.

32. The chair of claim 30, including audio earphones and a holder, which optionally has channel selection for different languages.33, The chair of claim 30 having a surface adapted to conveniently rest a drink or snack.

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