Kadaitcha Man wrote:
> IBM has secured Patent Number 7,640,233 on LMFARO, IMO, FOAD, BRB,
> LOL...
>
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-...7,640,233.PN.&OS=PN/7,640,233&RS=PN/7,640,233
Not to cast aspersions on your reading abilities, what I see in this link is
a patent request for a software assistant that will automatically translate
slang abbreviations contained in text messages, thus allowing the the
conversation to flow without stops when party A asks party B for an
explanation of the slang.
Quote from article:
While a number of software applications are available for facilitating text
communication, such as IM, these applications have failed to optimally
address the use of shorthand notation and evolving jargon. Confusion and
misunderstandings often result due to misinterpretation. The flow of
communication between users is further disrupted when one a user stops to
ask another user for the meaning of a shorthand term rather than proceeding
to author a reply.
"Therefore, an improved electronic messaging system is needed. In
particular, there is a need for easier, more efficient, and more precise
ways to handle shorthand notation and jargon contained within text
communication. More particularly, it would be desirable to have a method for
determining the meaning of shorthand notation and jargon without
interrupting the flow of communication. "
I don't see anything regarding the actual patenting of the slang terms.
Perhaps you could show me what I missed?
--
PV
Puritanism is the haunting fear that someone, somewhere may be happy.
H.L. Mencken