WO2003034304A1

WO2003034304A1 - System and method for providing updatable e-mail

Info

Publication number: WO2003034304A1
Application number: PCT/KR2002/001955
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eun Chang Lee; She Ho Choi
Original assignee: Acenet Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2001-10-18
Filing date: 2002-10-18
Publication date: 2003-04-24
Also published as: KR20030033112A

Abstract

The present invention discloses to system and method for providing updatable E-mail, and the system according to the present system includes mail sending system and mail receiving system. The mail sending system includes, file data and path server providing the path of file including the image data which will be inserted to the magic mail, magic mail server which has inputting apparatus processing data inputted by mail sending client and converting apparatus changing text to image data and encoding image data, image file and background data, creates the magic mail by compounding encoded data and HTML tag, and modifies the stored magic mail according to the mail sending client's input, eMailligence server sending the magic mail, database server storing image data, sent magic and mail sending client's information, and mail sending client making and sending the magic mail.

Description

TITLE OF INVENTION

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING UPDATABLE E-MAIL

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to an updatable E-mail providing system and a method for providing updatable E-mail, and more specifically, to an updatable E-mail providing system and a method for providing updatable E-mail for updating the E-mail by modifying a portion or entire contents of the E-mail sent with an artificial intelligence function when the sent E-mail should be modified, and by changing, adding, or deleting inserted images or icons, then deleting the entire contents of the E-mail.

BACKGROUND ART

In a prior art, it is impossible to modify E-mail after sending it, and it is necessary to input E-mail contents in consideration of an OS language of a recipient.

In addition, when a mail service provider does not support a language code, it is hard to understand the E-mail contents even though the E-mail was sent. In some cases, it is difficult to see or read the E-mail contents due to web mail services and browser characteristics of each company.

And, when incorrect E-mail is sent, there is a problem of resending a letter of correction with a letter of apology. Therefore, a main receiving system can have load when similar contents of E-mail are repeatedly sent, or the E-mail can be wrongly recognized as spam mail or junk mail.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

To solve the above problems, it is an object of the present invention to provide an updatable E-mail providing system for updating sent E-mail by modifying or deleting E-mail contents after sending the E-mail.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for providing E-mail updatable after sending it.

That is, the present invention provides a system and a method for efficiently using Internet marketing and Internet business as well as exactly sending E-mail by freely writing the E-mail on the web to send it and modifying sent E-mail contents at any time, as a result of magnifying efficiency of prior E-mail and minimizing any damage owing to incorrectly-sent E-mail. To achieve the above objects, the present invention provides a mail sending system, the mail sending system capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising: an input apparatus inputting a text to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from the text, the text characteristics including font information; a converting apparatus changing the text into text image data by making the text an image according to the text characteristics, the text characteristics recognized by the input apparatus; a data storage apparatus storing the changed text image data; a path server storing path information, the path information on stored path of the text image data, and supplying the path information by an external request; a mail generating apparatus generating E-mail, the E-mail including the path information of the text image data, the path information stored in the path server; and a mail sending apparatus sending the generated E-mail.

In addition, the data storage apparatus stores the sent E-mail after sending the E-mail, and the mail sending system further comprises a decoding apparatus, the decoding apparatus loading the stored E-mail from the data storage apparatus, decoding the loaded E-mail and converting the text image data into previously inputted text, when the client requests to modify previously sent E-mail. W

It is preferable for the mail generating apparatus to encode the path information of the text image data, and to include the encoded path information in the E-mail, and for the converting apparatus to generate a letter panel by using size of each letter, letter intervals, and line intervals, the each letter building up the text, and to generate the encoded text image data by applying colors and fonts of the each letter to the letter panel.

In addition, the above objects of the present invention will be accomplished by a mail sending system, the mail sending system capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising: an input apparatus inputting a text and an image file to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from the text, image file characteristics of the image file, and arrangement information between the text and the image file, the text characteristics including font information; a converting apparatus changing the text into text image data by making the text an image according to the text characteristics, the text characteristics recognized by the input apparatus; a data storage apparatus storing the changed text image data, the image file, the image characteristics, and the arrangement information; a path server storing path information, the path information on stored path of the text image data and the image file, and supplying the path information by an external requests; a mail generating apparatus generating

E-mail according to the arrangement information, the E-mail including the path information of the text image data and the image file, the path information stored in the path server; and a mail sending apparatus sending the generated E-mail.

The data storage apparatus stores the sent E-mail, and the mail sending system further comprises a decoding apparatus, the decoding apparatus loading the stored E-mail from the data storage apparatus, decoding the loaded E-mail, and converting the text image data^' into the text, when the client requests to modify previously sent E-mail.

In addition, the mail generating apparatus encodes the path information of the text image data and the image file, and includes the encoded path information in the E-mail, and the converting apparatus generates a letter panel by using size of each letter, letter intervals, and line intervals, the each letter building up the text, and generates the encoded text image data by applying colors and fonts of the each letter to the letter panel.

Another object of the present invention will be accomplished by a mail providing method, the mail providing method capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising steps of: inputting a text to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from the text, the text characteristics including font information; changing the text into text image data by making the text an image according to the recognized text characteristics; storing the changed text image data; storing path information, the path information on stored path of the text image data; generating E-mail, the E-mail including the stored path information of the text image data; and sending the generated E-mail.

Another object of the present invention will be accomplished by a mail providing method, the mail providing method capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising steps of: inputting a text and an image file to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from the text, image file characteristics of the image file, and arrangement information between the text and the image file, the text characteristics including font information; changing the text into text image data by making the text an image according to the text characteristics; storing the changed text image data, the image file, the image characteristics, and the arrangement information; storing path information, the path information on stored path of the text image data and the image file; generating E- mail according to the arrangement information, the E-mail including the stored path information of the text image data and the image file; and sending the generated E- mail.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a format diagram of an updatable E-mail providing system after sending E-mail in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating a process of generating and modifying magic mail.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a process of inputting contents of magic mail and changing data.

FIG 4 is a flow chart illustrating a process of sending, modifying or deleting magic mail at set time.

FIG. 5 is an example diagram showing an example of writing and modifying magic mail.

BEST MODE FOR CARRING OUT THE INVENTION

The above and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the description that follows, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a format diagram of an updatable E-mail providing system after sending E-mail in accordance with the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the updatable E-mail providing system after sending the E-mail in accordance with the present invention is composed of a mail sending system(lOO) and a mail receiving system(300). The mail sending system(lOO) comprises: a file data and path server(llθ) providing a path of a file such as image data to be inserted to E- mail(hereinafter, 'magic mail') in accordance with the present invention; a magic mail server(120) generating and modifying magic mail according to contents and a command inputted by a mail sending client(190); an eMailligence server(130) confirming a sending of the magic mail and a receiving of a mail receiving client(360); a database server(140) storing and managing data including image data inserted to the magic mail, the sent magic mail, and information of the mail sending client(190); a web mail server(150) supporting to receive general mail(hereinafter, 'general mail') sent from outside; a name server(160) supporting a conversion between a domain name and an IP address; a fire wall(170) supplying security of the mail sending system(lOO) by disconnecting abnormal access or malicious access and removing malicious code numbers; a router(180) designating a path of the mail receiving system(300) to receive the sent magic mail; and the mail sending client(190) writing and sending the magic mail. The mail receiving system(300) comprises: a router(310) designating a path of a system to receive general mail sent from the Internet or a wire/wireless communication network(200) and the mail receiving client(360); a fire wall(320) providing security of the mail receiving system(300); a name server(330) supporting a conversion between a domain name and an IP address; a web mail server(340) supporting to receive the magic mail sent from the mail sending system(lOO) or general mail sent from other mail system; client mail servers(350) distributively receiving the magic mail or the general mail received through the web mail server(340), and storing the received magic mail; and the mail receiving client(360) confirming the received magic mail or the general mail. The mail sending system(lOO) and the mail receiving system(300) in accordance with the present invention further comprise gateways(not shown).

The mail sending system(lOO) in accordance with the present invention inputs contents of the magic mail according to the contents and a command inputted or selected by the mail sending client(190), and converts inputted data to generate the magic mail, then sends the generated magic mail. Also, when the mail sending client(190) requests the sent magic mail to be modified, the mail sending system(lOO) loads the sent magic mail, modifies contents of the magic mail according to contents and a command modified by the mail sending client(190), and converts the modified data to modify the sent magic mail.

The magic mail is E-mail in accordance with the present invention, meaning the E-mail updatable or deletable by modifying E-mail contents after the sent E- mail is received in the mail receiving system(300). When deleting the E-mail, it deletes contents of the E-mail instead of deleting the magic mail itself received in the mail receiving system(300). The mail sending client(190) can designate a deleting time. That is, the E-mail is automatically deleted when a certain time elapses from the time when the magic mail is received in the mail receiving system(300), by deleting the magic mail sent at the time designated by the mail sending client or by sending the magic mail. This function is implemented to prevent information from leaking when other user except the mail receiving client(360) opens the sent magic mail, thereby enhancing security of the magic mail. Hereinafter, this will now be more fully described.

The magic mail is composed an image only, rather than generated in combination with a text and an image like prior E-mail. Namely, the magic mail is generated by changing a text inputted by the mail sending client(190) into an image, and by arranging a background image or an inserted image selected by the mail sending client(190) with the changed image data through an HTML tag.

When the general mail is written by an HTML tag composed of an image and a text, the text is sent to a recipient, but the image is not. However, in case of the magic mail, only the HTML tag is sent to the mail receiving system(300) without sending the image of the magic mail because the magic mail is composed of the image only. In the mail receiving system(300), the magic mail is recognized in the same way as the general mail.

In addition, in case of the magic mail, image modules of the HTML tag sent to the mail receiving system(300) are stored with all the image modules being encoded. When the mail sending client(190) wants to modify sent magic mail, the mail sending system(lOO) modifies the sent magic mail via a decoding process, regardless of a connecting state of the mail receiving system(300), and encodes the magic mail again. In other words, the mail sending system(lOO) decodes stored image information of the sent magic mail to display the information when the mail sending client(190) wants to modify the sent magic mail. When the mail sending client(190) modifies contents of the magic mail, the mail sending system(lOO) changes the modified contents into image data, and inserts a changed image when an inserted image is changed, and encodes the inserted image, then generates modified magic mail via an encoding process again to store an encoded file in a corresponding position.

The file data and path server(llθ) in accordance with the present invention supplies a file path for files such as the image data generated when a text inserted into the magic mail is changed, the image file, and the background image used as a background of the magic mail. That is, the path is supplied to copy, change, and encode a file to be inserted into the magic mail. 02 01955

For instance, supposing that there is 'acenet.jpg' as file data and

'/home/httpd/html/file/ acenet.jpg' as a path, the above file is changed into a code number encoded in the magic mail, and is moved to a place where only magic mail files are stored. A name of the moved file is changed into 7home/httpd/html/magicfιles/TH8d7akk98kl432ads.jpg', and is stored.

The magic mail server(120) in accordance with the present invention generates and modifies the magic mail according to the contents and the command inputted by the mail sending client(190), and includes an input apparatus(122) and a converting apparatus(124).

The input apparatus(122) in accordance with the present invention processes the contents and the command inputted by the mail sending client(190), recognizes images of each part or an entire image of the magic mail to be generated as well as a background color or a background image, and recognizes a letter style for a text inputted by the mail sending client(190). In other words, it understands characteristics of the text, an image file, and background data, and recognizes arrangement information for a place where the text and the image file are arranged in the magic mail. More specifically, it recognizes a font, letter size, and a letter color as well as contents, and recognizes a format of the magic mail.

The converting apparatus(124) in accordance with the present invention changes the text inputted by the mail sending client(190) and a selected image. The converting apparatus(124) distributes data recognized in the input apparatus(122) to each module according to characteristics of each of the data, and combines each of working results to show a result of the magic mail.

At this time, the result is generated by encoding each image file or images to be newly generated and confirming image size, colors, line intervals, letter styles, etc. The changing process of the converting apparatus(124) can be divided into image, background color, and font changes. For the image change, information of an image file is inputted to change the information into a randomized inherent encoding code.

For the background color change, using basic RGB color tones designates a background color. If an image is used as a background, a color of the image is designated as the background without calculating the RGB color tones.

For the font change, a letter color is designated as an RGB form, and a font is designated in reference to fonts existing in a server. At this time, the fonts should exist in the server as true font types. A letter panel is generated by recognizing letter size, letter intervals, and a font, and by measuring line intervals of letters. Then, the letter color and the font are inputted in the letter panel. The letter panel inputted by the letter color and the font is stored as an encoded file, and a sender magic mail database(144) of the database server(140) stores stored information.

Contents inputting and data converting processes will be described in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 in detail.

When the above operation is completed, all information is stored in the sender magic mail database(144) of the database server(140). Then, the stored information and operated information are combined with the HTML tag to make contents. That is, path infomiation on a place where the image data of the text, the image file, and the background data are stored is inserted into an HTML code to generate the magic mail. At this time, it is preferable to insert the path information by encoding it so that a recipient or external side cannot access or recognize the path information.

The eMailligence server(130) in accordance with the present invention confirms a sending of the magic mail and a receiving in the mail receiving client(360), and includes an eMailligence trim engine(132).

The eMailligence trim engine(132) in accordance with the present invention sends magic mail generated by the magic mail server(120). Namely, it combines the T KR02/01955

made contents in combination with the operated contents from the above and the HTML tag with an eMailligence module, and mounts the made contents on the eMailligence trim engine(132) to send the magic mail.

The eMailligence module taking charge of sending the magic mail sends the magic mail by inserting a rejectable icon and contents capable of confirming whether other magic mail is received while opening it, and by sending all the combined contents to the trim engine.

The database server(140) in accordance with the present invention stores and manages data including the image data inserted into the magic mail, the sent magic mail, and the information of the mail sending client(190), and includes an image upload database(142), the sender magic mail database(144), a user information database(146), and a receiving confirmation database(148).

Configuration examples of main data fields of each database forming the database server(140) are shown in following table 1:

[Table !]

Encoding code Stores an extracted encoding code.

In table 1, the path field is included in the image upload database(142). The fields of file names, inputted contents, variables(values) information, contents of magic mail, and the date are included in the sender magic mail database(144). The fields of encoding code and ID are included in the user information database(146).

The image upload database(142) in accordance with the present invention stores and manages a background image of an image file and background data which the mail sending client(190) wants to insert into the magic mail. The background image is an image that the mail sending client uses by inserting the background image without designating a background color as a background of the magic mail.

That is, when a substantial image file or the background image is stored, each image file or a capacity of the background image, and brief descriptions for names and the files are stored.

It is available to refer to the image upload database(142) in all places where the image files and the background image are used.

The sender magic mail database(144) in accordance with the present invention stores and manages changed image data of a text inserted into the magic mail, arrangement information on a position where the text and an image file are arranged in the magic mail, and the sent magic mail. The database(144) compares which codes the contents to be modified have, by using stored encoding codes(used when writing the magic mail), and uses the codes during file conversion. In addition, during a magic mail modifying process, it loads contents of the magic mail from a wring contents storing part, and loads each file name from a file name storing part, then loads each variable and property from a variable value storing part. The contents storing part is a space where the contents of the magic mail and modified contents are stored, and the file name storing part is a space showing stored names of each file, then the variable value storing part is a space showing values and properties of each file.

And, it stores a user ID, that is, an ID of the mail sending client(190) to prevent other users from using it while modifying the contents, by confirming who a system user is. Stored data is used when modifying or deleting the mail contents later.

The user information database(146) in accordance wit the present invention stores and manages information on the mail sending client(190). Namely, it stores simple information on a person and a company that should be inputted while registering a member or using a system, and generates a code number(code) in reference to a portion of self information when extracting each code from the system. The user information database is necessary when a system is authenticated. The receiving confirmation database(148) stores each E-mail address, code numbers by the E-mail addresses, and dates, and stores the above information in the database while sending the magic mail. When the magic mail is confirmed, confirmed contents showing the read magic mail are automatically updated in the receiving confirmation database(148), and the date is checked with the number of reading times. In other words, the receiving confirmation database(148) repeatedly performs an updating command, and stores sent information.

The web mail server(150) in accordance with the present invention supports to receive general mail sent from outside. That is, the magic mail is sent by the eMailligence server(130), and the general mail is sent by the web mail server(150).

The name server(160) in accordance with the present invention supports a conversion between a domain name and an IP address, and can use a DNS(Domain Name Server).

The mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention writes and sends the magic mail. The mail sending client(190) can be a person or a company, and has a terminal to access the mail sending system(lOO). The terminal can be connected to the mail sending system(lOO) through the Internet or a wire/wireless network, using a personal computer, PDA, portable phone or IMT2000 terminal.

The mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention has access to a predetermined web page or a predetermined mail sending unit supplied from the mail sending system(lOO), and generates magic mail to send it, then modifies the magic mail. The magic mail is generated and modified through the magic mail server(120), and the generated magic mail is sent through eMailligence server(130). And, the mail sending client(190) confirms general mail received by the web mail server(150) on the web page or through a predetermined mail receiving unit.

The mail receiving system(300) in accordance with the present invention receives the magic mail sent from the mail sending system(lOO) to make the mail receiving client(360) confirm it, and sends general mail sent by the mail receiving client(360). The mail receiving system(300) in accordance with the present invention corresponds to a general E-mail providing system. For instance, all E-mail providing systems such as a mail system using outlook express, hotmail, hanmail, and yahoo mail correspond to the mail receiving system(300).

The client mail servers(350) in accordance with the present invention distributively receive the magic mail received through the web mail server(340), and store the received magic mail. The client mail servers(350) are useful for many users.

The mail receiving client(360) in accordance with the present invention confirms the magic mail sent from the mail sending system(lOO). The mail receiving client(360) can be a person or a company, and has a terminal to access the mail receiving system(300). The terminal can have access to the mail receiving system(300) over the Internet or a wire/wireless communication network, using a personal computer, PDA, portable phone or IMT2000 terminal.

The mail receiving client(360) in accordance with the present invention accesses a predetermined web page or a predetermined mail receiving unit supplied from the mail receiving system(300), and confirms the magic mail sent by the mail sending system(lOO). In addition, the mail receiving client(360) has access to the web page or a predetermined mail sending unit to generate general mail, and sends the general mail.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating a process of generating and modifying magic mail. Referring to FIG. 2, the process of generating and modifying the magic mail is as follows. A mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention accesses a predetermined web page or a mail sending unit supplied from a mail sending system(lOO), and selects a magic mail writing menu(SlOO). A magic mail server(120) activates a magic mail writing window for writing magic mail by the mail sending client, and the mail sending client selects and inputs contents of the magic mail, an inserted image, and a background through the magic mail writing window.

The magic mail server(120) in accordance with the present invention processes data inputted and selected by the mail sending client through an input apparatus(122)(S110). The contents inputted by the mail sending client(190) are implemented by inputting a text, selecting a background color or a background image, and selecting an inserted image or an icon.

The input apparatus(122) in accordance with the present invention selects images of each part or entire images of the magic mail to be generated, a background color or a background image, according to contents and a command inputted by the mail sending client(190), and selects/inputs a letter style for a text inputted by the mail sending client(190). That is, it selects a font and letter size, selects/designates a letter color, and inputs contents. Also, it selects contents forms of the magic mail. The input apparatus recognizes each characteristic of the text inputted by the mail sending client, characteristics of image files, and characteristics of background data. The text characteristics include fonts, size, colors, letter intervals, line intervals, and contents. The characteristics of the image files include size and capacities of the image files.

A converting apparatus(124) in accordance with the present invention changes the inputted contents into data(S120). In other words, the converting apparatus(124) distributes data such as a text and an image processed in the input apparatus(122) while being inputted and selected by the mail sending client(190), into performing modules, and combines each working result to show a result of the magic mail. At this time, each image file and newly generated images are encoded. Size, colors, line intervals, letter styles of the image are confirmed to generate a result.

The data changes by the converting apparatus(124) can be largely divided into image, background color, and font changes.

For the image change, information of the image files is inputted to change the information into a randomized inherent encoding code.

For example, a PHP code for the image change is as follows. SEncodeNo = "2001012357231023Acenet"; defines a specific key value, and extracts it from a database. $png_code_no = md5($EncodeNo); encodes a specific key value by a specific command, and processes a variable.

For the background color change, a background color is designated by using basic RGB color tons, and when an image is used as a background, it designates a color of the image without calculating the RGB color tones.

For the font change, a letter color is designated as RGB form, and a font is designated in reference to fonts existing in a server. At this time, the fonts should exist in the server as true font types. A letter panel is generated by recognizing letter size, letter intervals, and a font, and by measuring line intervals of letters. Then, the letter color and the font are inputted in the letter panel.

The letter panel inputted by the letter color and the font is stored as an encoded file, and stored information is stored in a sender magic mail database(144).

For instance, a PHP code for colors and the letter change is as follows.

Srtfname = "/usr/share/ /hangul.ttf '; true font path

$view = imagettfbbox(letter size, 0, "Srtfname", hanMaping(SMgFont)); measures size of a letter panel)

$MFM = imagecreate($view[0] - width, $view[l] - height); A hanMaping(variable) is a command defined to map predefined Hangul(Korean Character), reading Hangul from the above file through an include "MagicHFont.php3" command.

imagecolorallocate($MFM, colors(255, 255, 255 - black)); applies a color to the letter panel generated by using the color. imagettftext(letter panel, font size, 0, letter margins, letter margins, letter color, font name, Hangul mapping); applies a letter inputted in the letter panel. imagepng(or jpg, or other picture format name) (image of operated contents,

"image name to be stored(path to be stored/$png_code_no.png)");

All information including the changed data is stored in a magic mail database(144), and is combined with an HTML tag to make contents(S130).

The made contents combined with the HTML tag are combined with an eMailligence module, and the made contents are mounted on an eMailligence trim engine(132) to send the magic mail(S140).

For instance, a PHP code for the movement and storage is as follows.

Sdivision = explode(".", "image file name, extension"); $Cp_TImg_Name = "$png_code_no.$division[l]"; copyC'prior stored path/file name to be moved", "path to be moved/$Cp_TImg_Name"); img src = "image file path $Cp_TImg_Name" : HTML tag command to show an image file.

Sent contents combined with the HTML tag are as follows.

<html>

</head>

</td>

</tr> <tr><td><img src- ' image absolute path/file name ">

</td> 02 01955

</tr>

<tr>

</tr>

</td>

</tr>

</table></div>

</td> </tr></tableX/div>

</body> </html>

The mail receiving system(300) in accordance with the present invention receives the above magic mail through a web mail server(340), and sends the magic mail to client mail servers(350)(S150).

The mail receiving system(300) receiving the magic mail stores the magic mail in the same way as general mail. And, it does not send a specific malicious code and contents processed in the mail receiving system(300).

A mail receiving client(360) in accordance with the present invention accesses a predetermined web page or a predetermined mail receiving unit supplied from the mail receiving system(300), and confirms the received magic mail(S160).

An eMailligence server(130) in accordance with the present invention confirms that the mail receiving client(360) receives the magic mail, and stores receiving confirmation information in a receiving confirmation database(148)(S170). The receiving confirmation database(148) stores each E-mail address, code numbers by the E-mail addresses, and dates, and stores information in a table while sending the magic mail. When the magic mail is confirmed, the receiving confirmation database(148) automatically updates contents confirming the read magic mail, and checks dates and the number of reading times.

When the mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention wants to modify the sent magic mail, it accesses a predetermined web page or a mail sending unit supplied from the mail sending system(lOO), and selects a magic mail modifying menu(S180). The magic mail server(120) displays a list of magic mail already sent by the mail sending client, in order that the mail sending client can select magic mail to be modified. When the mail sending client selects the magic mail, the magic mail server loads the stored contents of the magic mail selected from the sender magic mail database(144)(S190). The magic mail server(120) interprets a code for the loaded contents and a file, and activates a magic mail modifying window for modifying the corresponding magic mail, then displays the magic mail, in order that the mail sending client can modify the mail. The modifying and storing process of the magic mail is similar to the magic mail generating process.

When the sent magic mail is modified, the magic mail cannot be sent again. However, it is possible to resend the magic mail when necessary. Also, the mail receiver client(360) confirms the modified magic mail when confirming it next time. That is, the mail receiving system(300) simply shows the modified contents only when the contents are modified in the mail sending system(lOO). FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a process of inputting contents of magic mail and changing data. Referring to FIG. 3, the process of inputting the contents of the magic mail and changing the data is as follows. A mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention inputs a text to be inputted to the magic mail, selects a background color or a background image, and selects an inserted image or an icon(S200).

An input apparatus(122) in accordance with the present invention separates and analyzes the selected image(S210), and extracts an encoding code(S215). To separate and analyze the image, it is possible to use 'explode(image name)' and to use 'md5(conversion code)' to extract the encoding code, or to process a random function.

The input apparatus(122) in accordance with the present invention recognizes a font of the inputted text(S220). At this time, a true font path is designated. For instance, when Linux or Unix is used as an operating system, it is possible to designate it as Vusr/share/ ', and to designate it as 'C\ \ ' when an

NT series is used.

The input apparatus (122) in accordance with the present invention confirms the selected color(S230). The input apparatus(122) in accordance with the present invention recognizes a letter area for the inputted text(S240), extracts size(S242), and sets letter margins(S244). It is possible to use 'ΙmagettfBox(information)' so as to recognize the letter area. A converting apparatus(124) in accordance with the present invention combines information processed via the above step(S250), and processes the combined information(S260). It is possible to use 'ImagettfText(information combination)' to combine the processed information.

For the combined information processing, it converts a file to store the converted file(S262), performs a necessary file copying conversion(S264), and combines contents with an HTML tag(S266). To store the converted file, it can use 'image extension(encoded name)', and 'copy(path-code combination-path)' for the necessary file copying conversion.

All information processed through the above step is stored in a magic mail database(144)(S270).

The magic mail can be sent, modified, or deleted at a time set by the mail sending client(190). That is, the mail sending client can newly generate magic mail to send it at a reserved time or modify, delete the sent magic mail at the reserved time. The time set by the mail sending client is set by date, time, minute, second, or set after a certain time elapses from the set time. In addition, when modifying or deleting the magic mail, it can be set after a certain time elapses from a time when a mail receiving client(360) confirms the magic mail. The mail sending client can set a sending time, a modifying time, and a deleting time through another combined time setup menu. Or, a magic mail writing, modifying or deleting menu can set the time.

Firstly, when setting up the sending time, the modifying time, and the deleting time through a time setup menu, the mail sending client(190) selects the time setup menu and sets the sending time, the modifying time, and the deleting time through a sub menu. At this time, when the mail sending client selects a sending time setup menu that is the sub menu of the time setup menu, a magic mail writing window is activated because it is a new magic mail writing, and the mail sending client inputs and selects contents of the magic mail and the sending time, then generates the magic mail by a magic mail server(120) to store the generated mail. After that, the client sends the magic mail to a mail receiving system(300) at the set sending time. Also, a list of the sent magic mail is displayed when the mail sending client selects a modifying time setup menu as the sub menu of the time setup menu, and a magic mail modifying window is activated by receiving selected magic mail to be modified from the mail sending client. 1955

When the mail sending client inputs the modifying time after completing the magic mail modifying process, the magic mail server(120) stores the modified magic file as a temporary file, and replaces the sent magic mail with the magic mail(modified magic mail) stored as the temporary file at the modifying time. Finally, when the mail sending client selects a deleting time setup menu as the sub menu of the time setup menu, a^' list of the sent magic mail is displayed to make the mail sending client select magic mail to be deleted. When the mail sending client selects the magic mail to be deleted and inputs the deleting time, the magic mail server(120) deletes the sent magic mail at the set time. The process of writing, modifying, and deleting the magic mail is the same as shown above, thereby omitting detailed descriptions.

In addition, when the mail sending client(190) individually sets the sending time, the modifying time, and the deleting time by selecting the magic mail writing menu, the magic mail modifying menu, or the magic mail deleting menu, the mail sending client sets time on operating windows activated according to each menu.

The above process is described in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a process of sending, modifying, or deleting magic mail at set time. Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 4, a process of setting a sending time, a modifying time, and a deleting time through magic mail writing, modifying, and deleting menus, and a process of sending, modifying or deleting the magic mail at the set time will be described.

When a mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention wants to write new magic mail(S300), the client accesses a mail sending system to select a magic mail writing menu, and a magic mail server(120) activates a magic mail writing window(S305).

The mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention inputs or selects contents of the magic mail, an inserted image, and a background through the magic mail writing window, and sets a sending time of the magic mail(S310). The sending time is a reserved time when the magic mail is sent, and can be set at a specific set time or after a certain time from a time when the magic mail is written. The same process will be applied to the following modifying time and deleting time in the same way. At this time, of course, the magic mail written by the mail sending client can be immediately sent without setting the sending time. The magic mail server(120) processes data inputted or selected by the mail sending client in an input apparatus(122) and a converting apparatus(124) to generate magic mail, and stores the generated magic mail in a sender magic mail database(144)(S315). The method and the process of generating and storing the magic mail are the same as the above process, thereby omitting detailed descriptions. The magic mail server(120) in accordance with the present invention operates a timer to check the sending time(S320). The timer is commonly the same as a clock supported from a server or a personal computer, checking whether the mail sending client arrives at a set time, and when it is the set time, the timer outputs a signal to the magic mail server(120). When it is the sending time set by the mail sending client(S325), the magic mail server loads the magic mail stored in the sender magic mail database to send the magic mail to an eMailligence server(130), and the eMailligence server sends the magic mail(S330). It is preferable to store the magic file again when sending it after storing the magic mail as a temporary file in the step ' S315 ' .

When the mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention selects a magic mail modifying menu by accessing a mail sending system(lOO) to modify the sent magic mail(S335), the magic mail server(120) displays a list of the sent magic mail to make the mail sending client select magic mail to be modified(S340).

When the mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention selects the magic mail to be modified, a modifying window for the selected magic mail is activated(S345), and the mail sending client modifies contents of the sent magic mail, an inserted image, and a background through the magic mail modifying window, then sets a modifying time(S350). At this time, of course, the magic mail modified by the mail sending client can be immediately modified without setting the modifying time.

The magic mail server(120) in accordance with the present invention processes data modified by the mail sending client(190) through the input apparatus(122) and the converting apparatus(124), and generates the modified magic mail, then stores the magic mail in the sender magic mail database(144) as a temporary file(S355). The method and process of modifying the magic mail are the same as shown above, thereby omitting detailed descriptions.

The magic mail server(120) in accordance with the present invention operates the timer to check a modifying time(S360). When it is the modifying time set by the mail sending client(190)(S365), the magic mail server(120) updates the magic mail(modified magic mail) stored as the temporary file in a storing position of the selected magic mail of the sender magic mail database(144)(S370). Therefore, a mail receiving client(360) confirms the modified magic mail when accessing it next time.

When the mail sending client(190) in accordance with the present invention selects a magic mail deleting menu by accessing the mail sending system(lOO) to 1955

delete the sent magic mail(S375), the magic mail server(120) displays the list of the sent magic mail to make the mail sending client select magic mail to be deleted(S380).

When the mail sending client in accordance with the present invention selects the magic mail to be deleted, a magic mail deleting window is activated, and the mail sending client sets a deleting time through the magic mail deleting window(S385). At this time, of course, the magic mail selected by the mail sending client can be immediately deleted without setting a deleting time.

The magic mail server(120) in accordance with the present invention operates the timer to check the deleting time(S390), and when it is the deleting time set by the mail sending client(190)(S395), the magic mail server deletes the magic mail stored in the sender magic mail database(144)(S400). Therefore, when the mail receiving client(360) accesses it next time, the mail receiving client can confirm blank magic mail, that is, the magic mail whose contents, inserted image and background are all deleted. The method and the process of deleting the magic mail are the same as the above process, thereby omitting detailed descriptions.

FIG. 5 is an example diagram showing an example of writing and modifying magic mail, illustrating that a mail sending client writes or modifies magic mail through a magic mail writing window and a magic mail modifying window. Referring to FIG. 5, a process of writing and modifying magic mail will be described as follows.

FIG. 5 a illustrates a magic mail writing window for writing magic mail by a mail sending client(190) accessing a predetermined web page or a predetermined mail sending unit supplied from a mail sending system(lOO). The mail sending system(lOO) in accordance with the present invention supplies the magic mail writing window, a tool of writing and sending the magic mail on the web.

When the mail sending client(190) selects a magic mail writing menu among menus supplied from the web page or the mail sending unit in order to send the magic mail, the magic mail writing window is activated. Like shown in FIG. 5 a, the mail sending client selects a background color, letter color, font, and letter size as well as an image to be inserted. If there is an attached file, the client selects the file and inputs contents.

When the mail sending client(190) clicks a 'preview' button, the magic mail is displayed in the same way as a mail receiving client(360) receives it. When the mail sending client(190) clicks a 'send' button, information is brought from a user information database(146) to be assigned, and images are assigned from an image upload database(142). Then, images brought from a sender magic mail database(144) one to one are sequentially encoded in a random way, and are mixed with image modules to configure contents, and the contents are sent.

FIG. 5b illustrates generated magic mail. The mail receiving client(360) receives the magic mail like shown in FIG. 5b. The mail sending client(190) can confirm the generated magic mail through a 'preview' function. A sent time is shown in the generated magic mail like shown in FIG. 5b.

When the mail sending client(190) selects a magic mail modifying menu among menus supplied from a web page or a mail sending unit in order to modify the sent magic mail, a magic mail modifying window is activated like shown in FIG. 5c, and stored contents are loaded from the sender magic mail database(144) to be displayed.

When the mail sending client(190) modifies the contents like 5d and clicks a 'modify' button, the magic mail is changed according to the modified contents. The mail sending client can change a background color, letter color, font, letter size, inserted image, and the contents of the sent magic mail, and can delete the contents of the magic mail. In case of FIG. 5d, the background color, letter color, font, letter size, and the contents are changed, but the inserted image and icons are not changed. A modified result of FIG. 5d is shown in FIG. 5e.

FIG. 5e illustrates modified magic mail. The mail receiving client(360) can confirm the mail like shown in FIG. 5e after the mail sending client(190) modifies the magic mail.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

Like described so far, the present invention can let a recipient who opens E- mail confirm E-mail with updated contents, by updating or deleting the contents after sending the E-mail, thereby minimizing damage caused when incorrect contents are sent, and having a remarkable effect of solving problems of: giving overload to a receiving system because E-mail having similar contents is repeatedly sent; or being misunderstood as spam mail.

In addition, the present invention is easy to input owing to a similar E-mail writing method as a prior art, and can be used with multi-functional E-mail and Internet marketing solutions.

It is also possible to show a language written by an E-mail writer as it is, without regard to a language supplied from the other system, and to see clear letters at any places servicing a mail view browser and a web mail service. That is, E-mail written by a sender is sent as it is, regardless of a receiving system.

Also, the sender can easily access a web page or a mail sending unit to write and send magic mail, as well as modify and update the sent magic mail at any time.

Furthermore, it is easy to use because a mail sending client can freely set a sending time, modifying time or deleting time of the magic mail. If a certain time elapses after receiving magic mail in a mail receiving system, the magic mail is automatically modified or deleted, preventing other user except a mail receiving client from opening the magic mail. As a result, the present invention prevents information leakage, thereby remarkably improving security.

This invention may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled art.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A mail sending system, said mail sending system capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising: an input apparatus inputting a text to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from said text, said text characteristics including font information; a converting apparatus changing said text into text image data by making said text an image according to said text characteristics, said text characteristics recognized by said input apparatus; a data storage apparatus storing said changed text image data; a path server storing path information, said path information on stored path of said text image data, and supplying said path information by an external request; a mail generating apparatus generating E-mail, said E-mail including said path information of said text image data, said path information stored in said path server; and a mail sending apparatus sending said generated E-mail.

2. The mail sending system of claim 1, wherein said data storage apparatus stores said sent E-mail after sending said E-mail.

3. The mail sending system of claim 1, wherein a decoding apparatus is further comprised, said decoding apparatus loading said stored E-mail from said data storage apparatus, decoding said loaded E-mail and converting said text image data into previously inputted text, when said client requests to modify previously sent E- mail.

4. The mail sending system of claim 1, wherein said mail generating apparatus encodes said path information of said text image data, and includes said encoded path information in said E-mail.

5. The mail sending system of claim 1, wherein said converting apparatus generates a letter panel by using size of each letter, letter intervals, and line intervals, said each letter building up said text, and generates said encoded text image data by applying colors and fonts of said each letter to said letter panel.

6. A mail sending system, said mail sending system capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising: an input apparatus inputting a text and an image file to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from said text, image file characteristics of said image file, and arrangement information between said text and said image file, said text characteristics including font information; a converting apparatus changing said text into text image data by making said text an image according to said text characteristics, said text characteristics recognized by said input apparatus; a data storage apparatus storing said changed text image data, said image file, said image characteristics, and said arrangement information; a path server storing path information, said path information on stored path of said text image data and said image file, and supplying said path information by an external requests; a mail generating apparatus generating E-mail according to said arrangement information, said E-mail including said path information of said text image data and said image file, said path information stored in said path server; and a mail sending apparatus sending said generated E-mail.

7. The mail sending system of claim 6, wherein said data storage apparatus stores said sent E-mail.

8. The mail sending system of claim 6, wherein a decoding apparatus is further comprised, said decoding apparatus loading said stored E-mail from said data storage apparatus, decoding said loaded E-mail, and converting said text image data into said text, when said client requests to modify previously sent E-mail.

9. The mail sending system of claim 6, wherein said mail generating apparatus encodes said path information of said text image data and said image file, and includes said encoded path information in said E-mail.

10. The mail sending system of claim 6, wherein said converting apparatus generates a letter panel by using size of each letter, letter intervals, and line intervals, said each letter building up said text, and generates said encoded text image data by applying colors and fonts of said each letter to said letter panel.

11. A mail providing method, said mail providing method capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising steps of: inputting a text to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from said text, said text characteristics including font information; changing said text into text image data by making said text an image according to said recognized text characteristics; storing said changed text image data; storing path information, said path information on stored path of said text image data; generating E-mail, said E-mail including said stored path information of said text image data; and sending said generated E-mail.

12. A mail providing method, said mail providing method capable of modifying and deleting previously sent E-mail, comprising steps of: inputting a text and an image file to be transmitted from a client, and recognizing text characteristics from said text, image file characteristics of said image file, and arrangement information between said text and said image file, said text characteristics including font information; changing said text into text image data by making said text an image according to said text characteristics; storing said changed text image data, said image file, said image characteristics, and said arrangement information; storing path information, said path information on stored path of said text image data and said image file; generating E-mail according to said arrangement information, said E-mail including said stored path information of said text image data and said image file; and sending said generated E-mail.