U.S. patent application number 09/946946 was filed with the patent office on 2002-05-30 for webpad and method for using the same.
Invention is credited to Edwards, Bruce, Ferguson, Josh, Janik, Craig M., Kalayjian, Nick.
Application Number | 20020065902 09/946946 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26923908 |
Filed Date | 2002-05-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020065902 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Janik, Craig M. ; et
al. |
May 30, 2002 |
Webpad and method for using the same
Abstract
A webpad and method for using the same are provided. The webpad
includes an adapter module attached to a personal digital
assistant. The adapter module includes a wireless transceiver for
sending and receiving data via a wireless communication
protocol.
Inventors: |
Janik, Craig M.; (Los Altos
Hills, CA) ; Kalayjian, Nick; (San Francisco, CA)
; Edwards, Bruce; (Burlingame, CA) ; Ferguson,
Josh; (San Francisco, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Archana B. Vittal
BLAKELY, SOKOLOFF, TAYLOR & ZAFMAN LLP
Seventh Floor
12400 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles
CA
90025-1026
US
|
Family ID: |
26923908 |
Appl. No.: |
09/946946 |
Filed: |
September 4, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60230084 |
Sep 5, 2000 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
709/219 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 67/04 20130101;
H04L 67/00 20130101; G06F 1/1632 20130101; H04W 88/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
709/219 |
International
Class: |
G06F 015/16 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A webpad comprising: an adapter module attached to a personal
digital assistant, the adapter module including a wireless
transceiver for sending and receiving data via a wireless
communication protocol.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/230,084, filed Sep. 5, 2000, entitled "Home PC
to PDA Data Transfer System".
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] This application is related to U.S. Application entitled,
"Adapter Module and Method for Using the Same", filed Sep. 4, 2001,
and commonly assigned herewith.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of
personal digital assistants, and more particularly, to a
webpad.
BACKGROUND
[0004] The rapid buildup of telecommunications infrastructure
combined with substantial investment in Internet-based businesses
and technology has brought Internet connectivity to a large segment
of the population. Recent market statistics show that a majority of
households in the U.S. own at least one personal computer (PC), and
a significant number of these PCs are connected to the Internet.
Although the majority of household PCs are connected to the
Internet by dialup modem connections, broadband connectivity is
being rapidly adopted, and is decreasing in price as a variety of
technologies are introduced and compete in the marketplace. A large
majority of households in the U.S. and Europe are viable for at
least one or more type of broadband connection, such as cable, DSL,
optical networks, fixed wireless, or two-way satellite
transmission.
[0005] The rapid proliferation of low-cost processing power and
Internet connectivity has driven the availability and popularity of
digital content. Digitization combined with compression technology
produces content that is small and portable. Consumer enthusiasm
for digital audio files such as MP3-formatted content is a prime
example of the trend toward content digitization, enabling
consumers to efficiently share audio files that they have digitized
from CDs. The creation and transfer of digital audio is now
understood and desired by millions of consumers. The MP3 digital
audio format is an audio encoding technology that allows consumers
to further compress digital audio files such as those found on
Compact Disks, to much smaller sizes with very little decrease in
sound quality. PC-based MP3 software players have been created that
provide a convenient graphical user interface and software decoding
of MP3 files. Some technology allows users to play MP3 files on
their PC, using an existing sound card with external speakers.
However, to listen to MP3s the user must interface with the PC,
using a mouse and keyboard, and must be nearby the PC sound output
equipment.
[0006] Other content mediums are trending toward digitization. The
processing and sharing of digital images is expected to increase
geometrically as digital cameras gradually replace conventional
film chemistry. Electronic texts (eBooks) are another example of
how digitization enables more efficient and varied transfer of
content. As system bandwidth increases, it is only a matter of time
before digital video transport is as common as audio is now.
Additionally, interactive multimedia (Flash and Shockwave) will
increasingly be made available to end users with PCs.
[0007] A market for home networking technology has emerged, driven
by the need to share an Internet connection between two or more
PCs, and to connect all the PCs to productivity peripherals. There
has been innovation in local area network (LAN) technology based on
end-user desire for simplicity and ease of installation. The Home
Phoneline Networking Association (HPNA) promotes networking
products that turn existing phone wiring in the home into an
Ethernet physical layer. Existing HPNA products provide data-rates
equivalent to 10base-T Ethernet, approximately 10 Mbps. Networking
technology that uses the AC power wiring in the home to carry data
signals has also appeared. Similar to HPNA devices, adapters are
required to convert data signals from devices into voltage
fluctuations carried on to and off of the AC wires, allowing any AC
outlet to become a network interface.
[0008] Wireless radio-frequency (RF) LAN technology has also been
introduced into the home networking market. Theoretically, wireless
technology is the most convenient for the end user to install. Two
prevalent standards for wireless networking are Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 b and HomeRF.
Both of these systems utilize the unlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM band as
the carrier frequency for the transmission of data. Both of these
technologies have effective ranges of approximately 150 feet in a
typical household setting. In addition to utilizing Transmission
Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) protocols, IEEE 802.11
b and HomeRF include additional encryption and security protocol
layers so that the user's devices have controlled access to data
being sent through the LAN.
[0009] Although there is a significant installed base of PCs with
access to large volumes of digital content via Internet
connectivity, the value of that content is limited when it can only
be experienced at the PC.
[0010] Portable digital audio playback devices have been developed
that are significantly smaller than portable CD players because
they contain no moving parts, only flash memory, a microprocessor
for decoding MP3 compressed audio content, and batteries. However,
the cost per bit of audio content with portable digital audio
playback devices is still very high because of the high cost of
flash memory. The typical portable digital audio playback device
includes enough flash memory to store about one CD's worth of
digital music. The result is that the user is burdened with having
to continually manually change the music files in the device by
plugging the device into the PC and operating a user interface, if
they want to listen to a wide range of music.
[0011] PDAs and other portable handheld computers have achieved
widespread market acceptance due to the valuable data manipulation,
access, and storage functionality available in conveniently
portable form factors. The innovation of pen-based user interfaces
in combination with various types of character recognition
technology has also been a factor in the high adoption rate of
PDAs. The Palm Pilot.RTM. in particular has advanced the state of
the art of handheld computing by offering a small, light form
factor with an effective character recognition application called
Graffiti.RTM.. The Palm Pilot.RTM. uses the PalmOS.RTM. operating
system. The Palm Pilot.RTM. is manufactured by Palm Computing,
Inc.. Other small form factor PDAs are available, such as the
iPaq.RTM., manufactured by Compaq Computer, Inc.. Casio, Inc.
offers the Cassiopeia.RTM..
[0012] What is required is a system that allows a user to access
all of the digital content and information services without being
forced to sit at a PC.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] A webpad and method for using the same are provided. The
webpad includes an adapter module attached to a personal digital
assistant. The adapter module includes a wireless transceiver for
sending and receiving data via a wireless communication
protocol.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The present invention will be understood more fully from the
detailed description given below and from the accompanying drawings
of various embodiments of the invention, which, however, should not
be taken to limit the invention to the specific embodiments, but
are for explanation and understanding only:
[0015] FIG. 1 shows a schematic of one embodiment of the wireless
webpad system;
[0016] FIG. 2 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a webpad
that is a PDA attached to a wireless LAN adapter;
[0017] FIG. 3 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of
awireless LAN adapter;
[0018] FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of a
wireless LAN adapter;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the
electronic components in the wireless LAN adapter; and
[0020] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the software
components in the wireless webpad.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] A webpad and method for using the same are described. In the
following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous
specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough
understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent,
however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention can
be practiced without these specific details. In other instances,
well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form
in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.
[0022] A set of definitions is provided below to clarify the
present invention.
Definitions
[0023] Personal Digital Assistants (hereafter PDAs) are defined as
the category of computers that are small enough to be comfortably
held in one hand, and that contain software applications that are
used for personal organization, productivity, and communication.
The PDA category includes handheld computers, including
single-housing devices such as the Palm Pilot, which have a
two-piece clam-shell plastic housing with an integral display. PDAs
of this variety include an LCD that allows the user to write on it
with a stylus, or otherwise control and manipulate the software and
stored content on the PDA. There are also hinged designs for PDAs
that are similar in configuration, although much smaller than,
portable notebook computers. In this configuration, one housing
contains the microprocessor, memory, batteries, and small keyboard,
and the other housing contains an LCD.
[0024] A network is one or more computer devices of any type, such
as a personal computer (PC), network appliance, or PDA, connected
together by a data transfer link. A PDA that has a communication
link to the Internet is often referred to as a node. A node (point
of interaction with the Internet) on the network can potentially
communicate, that is, can send or receive data to any other node
(electronic device) on the network. Networks may be physically
wired or they may be wireless.
[0025] The Internet is used interchangeably with the term web or
worldwide web. Both of these are defined as the worldwide network
of PCs, servers, and other devices.
[0026] A CCD (charged coupled device) is a semiconductor technology
used to build light-sensitive electronic devices such as cameras.
Each CCD chip consists of an array of light sensitive photocells
that, in conjunction with a lens, can be used to capture both still
shots and moving pictures. CCD technology is well known in the
field of digital image acquisition and will not be described in
detail here for reasons of brevity.
[0027] Broadband connection is defined as a communications network
in which the frequency bandwidth can be divided and shared by
multiple simultaneous signals. A broadband connection to the
Internet typically provides minimum upstream and downstream
data-rates of approximately 200K or more bits per second. There are
many different types of broadband connections including DSL, cable
modems, and fixed and mobile wireless connections.
[0028] A Data Over Cable System Interface Specification (DOCSIS)
modem is an industry standard type of cable modem that is used to
provide broadband access to the Internet over a coaxial cable
physical layer that is also used for the delivery of cable TV
signals (CATV). DOCSIS modems are well known in the
telecommunications industry and will not be described here in
detail.
[0029] A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) modem is also an industry
standard type of modem that is used to provide broadband access to
the Internet, but over conventional copper phone lines (local
loops). DSL modems are well known in the telecommunications
industry and will not be described here in further detail.
[0030] The term gateway, used interchangeably with broadband
gateway, is defined as an integral modem and router, and may
include hub functionality. The modem function is used to change
voltage fluctuations on an input carrier line (a DSL line input or
a cable TV input) into digital data.
[0031] Routers are devices that connect one distinct network to
another by passing only certain IP addresses that are targeted for
specific networks. Hubs allow one network signal input to be split
and thus sent to many devices.
[0032] Gateway storage peripheral is defined as an add-on storage
device with processing power, an operating system, and a software
application that manages the downloading and storage of data. An
example scenario for the use of a gateway storage peripheral is a
system where a user has a DOCSIS modem and would like to add an
always-on storage capability. The gateway storage peripheral is
connected to the DOCSIS modem via a USB port or an Ethernet port in
the DOCSIS modem.A gateway storage peripheral in combination with a
DOCSIS modem or any type of broadband modem is considered a storage
gateway system. A PC that is always left on and connected to an
always-on gateway with a DSL or broadband cable connection is
considered a storage gateway system.
[0033] The term "message" is defined as information that is sent
digitally from one computing device to another for various
purposes. The term "content" is used to mean the information
contained in digital files or streams. For example, content may be
entertainment or news, or audio files in MP3 format. "Data" is used
to mean information such as digital schedule contents, responses
from devices sent back through the system, or digital messages and
email. "Content" and "data" are sometimes used interchangeably.
"Client devices" are those devices that are not fully functional
without a host device such as a personal computer.
[0034] Local Area Network (LAN) is defined as a network structure
that includes two or more devices that can communicate with other
devices utilizing a shared communication infrastructure, including
wired network technologies, such as Ethernet, or wireless network
technologies such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 b or HomeRF technology. Wireless LAN
technology such as IEEE 802.11 b and HomeRF are based on the
unlicensed 2.4Ghz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical)
frequency band. These networking technologies utilize Transmission
Control Protocol/Internet Protocols (TCP/IP) protocols.
[0035] A LAN typically constitutes a group of interconnected
devices that share a common geographic location and are typically
grouped together as a subnet. A local network, for example, would
be a home network where several computers and other smart devices
would be digitally connected for the purpose of transferring
content and data, controlling each other, sharing programming, or
presenting data and content to a user.
[0036] CODEC (Compression/Decompression algorithm) is a software
application that is used to decode (uncompress) encoded
(compressed) media files or streams. Most content is stored and
sent in a compressed format so that the content files are smaller
and thus take up less storage space and use less bandwidth when
being transferred via the Internet. The content is then decoded at
the playback device. For example, MP3 audio files are encoded and
must be decoded by a microprocessor running the codec in order for
the audio content to be presented to the user in an analog
format.
[0037] HTTP is Hyper-text transfer protocol, the protocol used by
Web browsers and Web servers to transfer files, such as text and
graphic files. Data-rate is defined as the data throughput of a
telecommunications system or technology, and is measured in a
quantity of bits per second, such as millions of bits per second
(Mbps).
Overview of Operation
[0038] Referring now to FIG. 1, the fundamental operation of the
wireless webpad 32 system involves LAN transmission of digital
content and services from a local server that is a PC in one
embodiment. Content and communication services are received via PC
but can originate on the Internet 8, using the PC as a proxy
server. Wireless webpad 32 receives the digital content and
communications and processes it in various ways.
[0039] In one embodiment, webpad 32, shown in FIG. 2, is a PalmV
PDA 36 manufactured by Palm Computing. The PDA 36 is attached to a
wireless LAN adapter 40. The PC is also functionally connected via
a USB connection to a wireless radio frequency (RF) LAN access
point 28, such that digital content from PC is transmitted to nodes
on the LAN 48.
[0040] The function of the PC and Broadband connection in the
System
[0041] In one embodiment, the function of PC in the wireless webpad
32 system is to acquire, store, manage, and serve digital content
and interactive services to wireless webpad 32. Digital content is
stored on PC hard disk drive 56. PC gains access to digital audio
and video content several ways. In one embodiment PC is also
connected to Internet 8 via a broadband cable modem 16. Thus PC has
access via content services to downloadable digital audio files
such as MP3 formatted audio files, MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 video files,
as well as digital audio and video streams from Internet 8
servers.
[0042] In one embodiment, the user can also manually convert CD
audio files into MP3 files, a process known as "ripping". PC can
also route Internet 8 streams of content to webpad 32. In other
embodiments, PC is connected to Internet 8 through a dial-up modem
connection to an ISP, or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), or a fixed
wireless broadband connection.
Discussion of Wireless LAN adapter 40--Mechanical Description
[0043] As shown in FIG. 2, PDA 36 docks with wireless LAN adapter
40 with a spring loaded mechanical attachment that includes a latch
hook 284. The latch hook 284 is shown in FIG. 3. In one example
where the PDA 36 is a Palm, Palm Computing provides a reference
design for connecting to the PalmV with the use of a small slot on
the bottom side of the PalmV housing. PDA 36 is released from
wireless LAN adapter 40 by pressing button 176. Electrical contacts
on the rear end of PDA 36 make contact with electrical contacts on
wireless LAN adapter 40 in order to establish a data communication
link.
[0044] FIG. 3 shows wireless LAN adapter 40 without PDA 36
attached. In one embodiment, the lower part of wireless LAN adapter
40 has the same shape as the lower part of PDA 36, and includes the
same electrical contacts as PDA 36 electrical contacts in order to
fit in to and utilize the existing PDA 36 docking cradle. By
placing PDA 36 attached to wireless LAN adapter 40 into PDA 36
docking cradle, both the PDA 36 battery and the battery 104
included in wireless LAN adapter 40 are alternatively charged.
[0045] Referring now to FIG. 4, an exploded view of wireless LAN
adapter 40 shows a typical two-piece plastic shell construction as
well as other components. Internal hardware components include a
motherboard 156 that contains the electronic components that
constitute the functional data-manipulating aspect of the
device.
Electrical Description
[0046] FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of the electrical components in
wireless LAN adapter 40. Motherboard 156 electrically connects
components including a microprocessor 115, dynamic memory (DRAM)
116, programmable (flash) memory 118, a power regulation and
battery charging sub-system 124, a digital signal processor (DSP)
140, battery 104, a headset jack 184, and a stereo audio out jack
128. A wireless LAN transceiver 44 is functionally connected to
motherboard 156.
[0047] In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 also includes a
digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 121 for converting the
uncompressed digital information into analog signals that are
presented at the stereo audio out jack 128. Microprocessor 115 in
combination with DRAM memory 116 executes instructions from the
real time operating system 92 and control firmware 96. In an
alternative embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 includes a
charge-coupled device (CCD) chip and a lens, the function of which
will be explained later in this disclosure.
Description of Wireless LAN transceivers (card in LAN adapter)
[0048] Wireless LAN transceivers 44 are capable of sending and
receiving data using radio frequencies via a wireless data transfer
protocol. Technology for such a LAN 48 is currently available and
includes the Symphony wireless networking access point provided by
Proxim, Inc.. LAN systems such as this are based on RF modulation
centered on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. Such LANs have a practical
range of approximately 150 feet and are capable of reaching most
areas in an average sized house were webpad 32 might be
located.
[0049] In another embodiment, the wireless LAN access point 28 is a
PCI card that is located internal to the PC, with an external
antenna 122. In another embodiment, the wireless LAN communication
link 48 is provided using IEEE 802.11 b protocols. In another
embodiment wireless LAN communication link 48 is provided using
Bluetooth protocols.
Wireless Webpad Software and Functionality
[0050] Wireless webpad 32 functions are the combined functions of
PDA 36 and wireless LAN adapter 40. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of
the location of various software functions in wireless webpad 32.
PDA 36 is used primarily for its user-interface capabilities. Many
functions require the computer processing power of wireless webpad
32. For example, microprocessor 115 in combination with DAC 121 and
CODEC 100 in wireless LAN adapter 40 is capable of decoding digital
audio files. Microprocessor 115 in combination with DSP 140 and a
microphone input is capable of digitizing sound inputs.
Device Software--CODECs
[0051] In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 includes the
Fraunhofer CODEC in wireless LAN adapter 40, licensed for use by
Thomson Electronics for decoding the digital audio file that is
streamed to it from PC. CODEC 100 is an executable file stored in
memory, launched by control firmware 96, executed by real time
operating system 92 running on wireless LAN adapter 40. Wireless
LAN adapter 40 may store a multiple CODECs in memory 118 in
wireless LAN adapter 40 for decoding variously formatted digital
audio files that may be selected by the user. For example, the
WindowsMedia CODEC, provided by Microsoft may be stored in memory
118 at wireless webpad 32.
Software Module--System control application 64
[0052] FIG. 1 lists the software components of wireless webpad 32
system that are included at PC. FIG. 6 lists the software elements
of wireless LAN adapter 40 and PDA 36.
[0053] The system control application 64 is software executing on
PC that manages communication and streaming from PC to wireless
webpad 32. System control application 64 includes a server module
76 that is a Java application. System control application 64 also
includes a database module 68 that is written to or accessed by
server module 76, and a series of graphical user interface (GUI)
modules, that provide user interfaces for setting up content to be
accessed by or streamed to wireless webpad 32, as well as other
devices on the LAN. One instance of GUI module is a Windows
application that runs on PC. Another instance of GUI module is a
native application for PDA 36 operating system.
[0054] An example of webpad 32 GUI is the webpad playlist manager
GUI application 276 that features a three-level nested list
structure for organizing digital audio content. The three levels
are labeled as channels, playlists, and tracks. Channels are lists
of playlists, and playlists are lists of tracks. Track is a GUI
representation of a locally cached digital audio file or a digital
audio stream from Internet 8. Audio content services are also
available through online services accessed through a browser
interface on webpad 32. The online digital audio files associated
with online playlist titles in the online playlists are streamed to
wireless webpad 32 via PC and wireless LAN communication link 48.
Server module 76 includes software that interfaces with the
protocols of each online audio service provider to allow online
playlists to be downloaded and transferred into database module 68.
Thus, playlist structures and playlist titles created online using
the web-based content selection guide are available and can be
interacted with by the user with the webpad playlist manager GUI
application 276 running on wireless webpad 32.
Software Functions--Communication/Message processing
[0055] The communication and control functions of the wireless
webpad 32 system will now be described. In one embodiment, a user
may use wireless webpad 32 GUIs to control the function of wireless
webpad 32 and other client devices connected to the system.
[0056] For example, the user makes selections on webpad playlist
manager GUI application 276 using the stylus with the touch screen
LCD 136. These interactions are processed by the microprocessor 115
and operating system in PDA 36, and messages are sent to control
firmware 96 in wireless LAN adapter 40 via the serial port
interface. These messages are then converted into XML-based
messages and sent via HTTP requests to system control application
64 on PC via wireless LAN 48. These messages are interpreted by
server module 76 running on PC and specific actions are initiated.
Applications enabled by the wireless webpad 32 system are discussed
below.
System Function--Local Browsing
[0057] System control application 64 includes server module 76 that
operates as a server for webpad 32. A database of information can
be maintained on PC such as yellow pages directories, white pages
directories, TV Guide, and the like. Database module 68 stores the
locations of the local content files. Because of the speed of LAN
48, access to this information is very fast. In this embodiment PDA
36 GUI is a browser that accesses the server with HTTP
requests.
System Function--Internet 8 Browsing
[0058] Server module 76 also acts as a router and network address
translator, allowing the user to use the browser application on the
PDA 36 to access web pages on Internet 8. The browser application
on PDA 36 can receive world wide web URLs entered by the user, and
server module 76 will route these requests through to the wide area
connection, such as a broadband Internet 8 connection. The
responses back from Internet 8 are routed through to webpad 32.
System Function--Streaming Audio
[0059] An aspect of control firmware 96 on wireless LAN adapter 40
in combination with webpad playlist manager GUI application 276 on
the PDA 36 provides the ability to initiate and control a real-time
digital audio or video stream from server module 76 on PC. Webpad
playlist manager GUI application 276 on PDA 36 also provides the
standard controls for starting, stopping, pausing, progressing to
the next track, and the like. These controls are GUI elements on
the touch screen LCD 136. The user activates the control GUI
elements with the stylus.
[0060] The interaction of control firmware 96 with server module 76
provides a buffer management function that controls the flow of
portions of the digital audio file from PC into a local DRAM memory
of wireless webpad 32. The buffer management function insures that
the local DRAM memory buffer is filled as the contents of DRAM are
decoded by microprocessor 115 executing CODEC 100. DAC 121 converts
the decoded digital audio into analog signals that are presented at
the head phone jack 128 on wireless LAN adapter 40. The user
listens to the audio stream using a stereo headset plugged into
earphone jack 128.
System Function--TV Synchronization Mode
[0061] System control application 64 can run on a set-top box that
includes a digital cable converter and a DOCSIS cable modem. In
this scenario, system control application 64 can receive
information as to the current cable channel that the digital cable
converter is tuned to. The set-top box makes the currently playing
content channel available to system control application 64. The
Internet 8 connection integral to the set-top box enables a
function of system control application 64 to use an online lookup
function in combination with an online programming guide database
to obtain a text description of the currently playing content.
Further, an Internet 8 search function can be used to gather
ancillary content links, defined as links to websites that relate
to the text descriptors of the currently playing content. These
ancillary content links are automatically sent to webpad 32 when TV
synchronization mode is activated on webpad 32. The result is that
while watching a TV program such as movie or an advertisement,
related links are immediately sent to webpad 32.
[0062] Using the above example of ancillary content sent
automatically to the webpad 32, activation by the user of a GUI tag
button displayed on webpad 32 LCD 136 that is associated with the
ancillary content currently displayed on LCD 136, results in the
transmission of a message back through LAN 48 informing system
control application 64 that tag button was activated. Server module
76 then compiles and transmits tag message to a tag storage and
processing server. The information in tag message is associated
with the currently playing content and may include but is not
limited to: metadata or meta-tags (ID3 data) included in the file
or stream (characters or images); the file name if content is a
file; the URL or IP address of the stream if content is a stream;
time; date; and user identifier. Other ancillary content is then
aggregated a web page that is accessible to the user of the
system.
System Function--Voice-over-IP Mode
[0063] In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 includes DSP 140
for digitizing audio inputs. A headset, which is a combination
earphone and microphone, is plugged into headset jack 184 on
wireless LAN adapter 40. When a voice-over-IP call is initiated
using a GUI on PDA 36, DSP 140 in concert with microprocessor 115
and control firmware 96 converts the analog voice signal into
digital packets in real time and sends this information via LAN
communication link 48 to server module 76 on PC. Server module 76
on PC routes these packets to the appropriate voice-over-IP server
on Internet 8. It is assumed that Internet 8 voice-over-IP service
is used. FIG. 3 shows that wireless LAN adapter 40 includes an
answer button 288 that is connected electrically to microprocessor
115 and allows convenient one-button activation when answering
voice-over-IP calls. Volume up and volume down buttons are also
included in wireless LAN adapter 40.
System Function--Voice-Recording Mode
[0064] DSP 140 and microprocessor 115 constitutes a audio
digitizing subsystem that can be used to digitize voice messages. A
GUI on PDA 36 allows the user to initiate and stop a recording
interval, similar to controls on many audio recording devices. As
the recording is taking place, the audio signal is digitized and
sent in large blocks that are re-constructed by system control
application 64. The resulting audio files are stored on PC, or can
be sent other users as email attachments. The GUI on PDA 36 also
includes an address book for selection the recipient of the audio
message.
System Function--Image Data Transfer
[0065] Image data transfer occurs in two modes: still camera
function and video camera function. Both of these modes use the
embodiment of wireless LAN adapter 40 that includes a CCD chip and
lens subsystem described above. The output of a CCD ship is a
single frame or a sequence of frames that are an array of pixels.
In still image transfer mode, one digital frame is sent to PC via
wireless LAN communication link 48 and stored in database 68. This
digital image can be saved in a variety of standard image formats
such as JPEG or TIFF formats. A GUI on PDA 36 provides for
activation of the still image camera function.
[0066] In video camera mode, digital video frames are captured by
the CCD subsystem and encoded in MPEG-4 format, and sent in real
time via the wireless LAN communication link, to system control
application 64. A video compilation software application that is an
element of system control application 64 appends these frames into
an MPEG-4 video file. In an alternative embodiment, the MPEG-4
stream can be routed by the server module 76 to a server on the
Internet 8 where the stream can be accessed by a third party. A GUI
on PDA 36 allows for the starting and stopping of streaming video
from wireless webpad 32.
Network Device Control
[0067] In one embodiment, by connecting a network module to various
other electronic devices, these devices become nodes in the LAN 48
and can be manipulated by software on PC as well as with GUI
control applications running on webpad 32. Examples of other
networked devices could include, but are not limited to, a
television, stereo, oven, HVAC system, lights, video camera
security systems, video baby monitors, and door locks, among
others. LAN adapters connected to electronic devices differ
according to the functions of each device but include a wired or
wireless transceiver and other necessary control circuitry.
[0068] PC with wireless LAN access point 28 and system control
application 64 is the fixed central controller for all these
devices and can be used to perform various control functions such
as on/off control. Webpad 32 is used as the portable central
controller for these networked devices. In an example scenario, a
user can use webpad 32 in concert with a wireless LAN video module
that is pointed to an infant located in a house.
[0069] As another example, webpad 32 can be used to control a
digital audio converter, a device that is a node on the LAN and is
able to receive digital audio streams from PC, decode and convert
the stream into analog signals that are plugged into any existing
stereo system. Webpad playlist manager GUI application 276 that is
used to manage playlists and control streams into webpad 32 can be
used to control audio content delivered the digital audio
converter. A GUI element in webpad playlist manager GUI application
276 allows the user to select either digital audio converter or
webpad 32 as the target device for the audio stream.
[0070] In one embodiment, a further use of webpad 32 as a device
controller entails using the built in infrared (IR) capabilities on
PDA 36s. Webpad 32 can use its IR transmitter to communicate
directly with electronic devices with IR receivers such as
televisions and stereos, or with an IR enabled amplifier module
attached. The specific IR configurations for individual electronic
devices can be downloaded from Internet 8 by PC, stored on PC and
then sent to webpad 32. In an example scenario, webpad 32 is used
to control the television. The user requests to use PDA 36 as a TV
remote controller by making a selection to his effect on a GUI on
webpad 32. The makes selections on the AV control GUI on webpad 32
both to lower the volume of the TV and to watch a specific program
being broadcast. Previously, webpad 32 downloaded the relevant IR
configurations for the TV from Internet 8 through PC. Webpad 32
then transmits the IR data to the TV.
Alternative Embodiments
[0071] The wireless LAN adapter has several permutations that have
not yet been explicitly mentioned but are implied: the module can
include an external antenna 122; the audio in/out jack and/or the
stereo out jack and its associated function can be regarded as
optional on the device; the CCD and its associated functions can be
viewed as optional on the device; the IR capabilities and its
associated functions on the PDA can be viewed as optional on the
PDA; the IR capabilities and its associated functions can be
incorporated directly into the wireless LAN adapter; the CCD and
its related functions can be added to the system by attaching a CCD
camera plug-on adapter module directly to the PDA (PDAs such as the
Palm Pilot, manufactured by Palm Computing, and the Visor,
manufactured by Handspring, offer optional CCD camera plug-on
adapters); the wireless LAN adapter may include a conventional
power jack and be recharged through a charging module unassociated
with the PDA. Other permutations and embodiments exist that are not
explicitly listed above.
Embodiment with PDA with Decoding Capability
[0072] PDAs such as the iPaq include microprocessors that are
capable of decoding digital audio and video streams, as well the
capability to store a quantity of digital content files in internal
memory. In another embodiment, an iPaq includes a CompactFlash
wireless LAN card and an integrated control and GUI software
application that provides the capability of communicating with the
system control application as well as all of the functions of the
webpad described above.
Embodiment with Gateway Node
[0073] For example, another method for providing an Internet
connection to the webpad is to include a gateway node, a device
that is a wireless LAN to ethernet converter. The gateway node
system is used when there is an existing Internet connection such
as a DSL connection or a cable modem connection. An example system
would include a broadband gateway that is also a hub, such as the
Netopia 3100 router, made by Netopia. The Netopia router performs
routing and hub functions in addition to other functions such as
being a DHCP server (it dynamically serves up internet protocol
addresses). The Netopia router has several physical connection
ports. In one port it receives a connection to the Internet, such
as a DSL connection. There are several other physical ports that
are Ethernet ports. The gateway node in this case would convert
Ethernet protocol to the wireless LAN protocol, and broadcast them.
The gateway node would alternatively receive RF signals from the
webpad module and convert them to Ethernet protocol messages. By
using a gateway node, the webpad assembly is capable of
communicating with the Internet without the use of a home PC.
[0074] Depending on which PDA is used and how much computing power
is available, various functions described above may be executed by
the processor located in the wireless LAN adapter, or they may be
executed by the processor in the PDA. Or both processors may share
the computing load.
Alternative Embodiment--Wireless Connection to Streaming Player
with Storage
[0075] In another embodiment, wireless LAN adapter includes a large
quantity of battery-backed up static RAM, or SRAM that allows the
webpad to store a quantity of data. For example, the user selects a
number of digital audio tracks on the PC using the GUI on the
wireless webpad that are to be downloaded and stored on the webpad.
The battery backed-up SRAM stores the files so the user can access
and listen to the digital audio files away from the wireless LAN
communication link.
[0076] In another embodiment, the wireless LAN adapter may include
a card slot for accepting CompactFlash memory cards. In this case,
the digital audio files transferred from the PC to the wireless
webpad are stored in CompactFlash memory, and the user may listen
to the audio files beyond the vicinity of the LAN communication
link.
[0077] A webpad and method for using the same have been described.
Although the present invention is described herein with reference
to specific embodiments, many modifications and variations therein
will readily occur to those with ordinary skill in the art.
Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are included
within the intended scope of the present invention as defined by
the following claims.
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