U.S. patent application number 10/903225 was filed with the patent office on 2005-10-06 for system and method for monitoring a mobile computing product/arrangement.
Invention is credited to Bellows, David, Bhatia, Sudhir, Cordes, Kevin, Hamilton, Alistair, Wulff, Thomas.
Application Number | 20050222801 10/903225 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35055491 |
Filed Date | 2005-10-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050222801 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wulff, Thomas ; et
al. |
October 6, 2005 |
System and method for monitoring a mobile computing
product/arrangement
Abstract
Described is a system and method for monitoring a mobile
computing Arrangement. The arrangement may include a sensor and a
processor. The sensor detects first data of an event including a
directional orientation and a motion of the arrangement. The
processor compares the first data to second data to determine if at
least one predetermined procedure is to be executed. The second
data may include a predetermined threshold range of changes in the
directional orientation and the motion. If the predetermined
procedure is to be executed, the processor selects the
predetermined procedure which corresponds to the event as a
function of the first data. Subsequently, the predetermined
procedures is executed.
Inventors: |
Wulff, Thomas; (North
Patchogue, NY) ; Hamilton, Alistair; (Stony Brook,
NY) ; Bhatia, Sudhir; (Brooklyn, NY) ;
Bellows, David; (Wantagh, NY) ; Cordes, Kevin;
(Miller Place, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FAY KAPLUN & MARCIN, LLP
15O BROADWAY, SUITE 702
NEW YORK
NY
10038
US
|
Family ID: |
35055491 |
Appl. No.: |
10/903225 |
Filed: |
July 30, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60559735 |
Apr 6, 2004 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
702/141 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 2221/2111 20130101;
G06F 1/3203 20130101; G01P 15/00 20130101; H04M 1/72454 20210101;
G03B 17/18 20130101; G06F 2200/1614 20130101; G06F 1/3265 20130101;
G03B 2217/18 20130101; Y02D 10/00 20180101; G06F 21/88 20130101;
H04M 2250/12 20130101; G06F 3/017 20130101; G01P 1/127 20130101;
G06F 2221/2101 20130101; H04M 1/72457 20210101; G06F 1/1698
20130101; Y02D 30/70 20200801; H04W 52/027 20130101; G06F 1/1626
20130101; G06F 1/3246 20130101; G06F 1/1694 20130101; G01P 3/50
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
702/141 |
International
Class: |
G01P 015/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A mobile computing arrangement, comprising: a sensor detecting
first data of an event including a directional orientation and a
motion of the arrangement; and a processor comparing the first data
to second data to determine if at least one predetermined procedure
is to be executed, the second data including a predetermined
threshold range of changes in the directional orientation and the
motion, wherein if the predetermined procedure is to be executed,
the processor selects the predetermined procedure which corresponds
to the event as a function of the first data, and wherein the at
least one predetermined procedure is executed.
2. The arrangement according to claim 1, further comprising: a
memory device coupled to the processor, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes storing the first data into the memory
device.
3. The arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes encrypting the stored first data to allow access
to the first data only to an authorized user.
4. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the motion
includes at least one of a velocity value, an acceleration value
and an angular velocity value.
5. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the directional
orientation includes at least one angular movement value of the
arrangement with respect to at least one axis of the
arrangement.
6. The arrangement according to claim 5, wherein at least one axis
includes a three dimensional axes.
7. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes further adding to the first data at least one of
a time/date of the event, a status of the arrangement and
environmental data.
8. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining at least one of (i) a level of
physical impact of the arrangement and (ii) a distance which the
arrangement has traveled as a function of the first data.
9. The arrangement according to claim 1, further comprising: a
communication device coupled to the processor, wherein the
predetermined procedure includes transmitting at least a portion of
the first data to a computing device.
10. The arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the communication
device includes at least one of a wireless transceiver and a wired
transceiver.
11. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the arrangement
is at least one of a bar code scanner, a handheld personal digital
assistant, a laptop, a digital camera, an optical reader, a data
capture device and a mobile communication arrangement.
12. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein each of the
second data corresponds to one of the plurality of predetermined
events.
13. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes generating an output signal for the arrangement
in at least one of an audio signal and a visual signal.
14. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining a viewing angle of a display of the
arrangement as a function of the first data and turning off a
back-lighting of the display when the viewing angle is outside of a
threshold viewing angle range and turning on the back-lighting of
the display when the viewing angle is within the threshold viewing
angle range.
15. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining a viewing angle of a display of the
arrangement as a function of the first data and turning off the
display when the viewing angle is outside of a threshold viewing
angle range and turning on the display when the viewing angle is
within the threshold viewing angle range.
16. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes shutting down the arrangement.
17. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes interpreting the first data as an input
corresponding to a command for the arrangement.
18. The arrangement according to claim 1, further comprising: a
security module controlling access to the arrangment.
19. The arrangement according to claim 18, wherein when the first
data is indicative of a lack of change in the directional
orientation and the motion of the arrangement, the predetermined
procedure includes blocking access to the arrangement by the
security module.
20. The arrangement according to claim 19, wherein the security
module unblocks access to the arrangement upon the submission of a
password.
21. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining an orientation of the display with
respect to a user as a function of the first data and changing the
orientation of the display from a first display orientation to a
second display orientation as a function of the first data and the
second data.
22. The arrangement according to claim 21, wherein the first
display orientation is a landscape mode and the second display
orientation is a portrait mode.
23. The arrangement according to claim 21, wherein the first
display orientation is a portrait mode and the second display
orientation is a landscape mode.
24. The arrangement according to claim 1, further comprising: an
image capturing device.
25. The arrangement according to claim 24, wherein the
predetermined procedure includes adjusting an image captured by the
image capturing device as a function of the first data at the time
the image was captured.
26. A method, comprising the steps of: detecting, using a sensor,
first data of an event including a directional orientation and a
motion of the arrangement; comparing, using a processor, the first
data to second data to determine if at least one predetermined
procedure is to be executed, the second data including a
predetermined threshold range of changes in the directional
orientation and the motion; selecting, if the predetermined
procedure is to be executed, the predetermined procedure which
corresponds to the event as a function of the first data; and
executing the at least one predetermined procedure.
27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes storing the first data into a memory device.
28. The method according to claim 27, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes encrypting the stored first data to allow access
to the first data only to an authorized user.
29. The method according to claim 26, wherein the motion includes
at least one of a velocity value, an acceleration value and an
angular velocity value.
30. The method according to claim 26, wherein the directional
orientation includes at least one angular movement value of the
arrangement with respect to at least one axis of the
arrangement.
31. The method according to claim 30, wherein at least one axis
includes a three dimensional axes.
32. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes further adding to the first data at least one of
a time/date of the event, a status of the arrangement and
environmental data.
33. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining at least one of (i) a level of
physical impact of the arrangement and (ii) a distance which the
arrangement has traveled as a function of the first data.
34. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes transmitting at least a portion of the first
data to a remote computing device.
35. The method according to claim 26, wherein each of the second
data corresponds to one of the plurality of predetermined
events.
36. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes generating an output signal for the arrangement
in for of at least one of an audio signal and a visual signal.
37. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining a viewing angle of a display of the
arrangement as a function of the first data and turning off a
back-lighting of the display when the viewing angle is outside of a
threshold viewing angle range and turning on the back-lighting of
the display when the viewing angle is within the threshold viewing
angle range.
38. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining a viewing angle of a display of the
arrangement as a function of the first data and turning off the
display when the viewing angle is outside of a threshold viewing
angle range and turning on the display when the viewing angle is
within the threshold viewing angle range.
39. The method according to claim 26, wherein when the first data
is indicative of a lack of change in the directional orientation
and the motion of the arrangement, the predetermined procedure
includes blocking access to the arrangement by a security
module.
40. The method according to claim 39, wherein the security module
unblocks access to the arrangement upon the submission of a
password.
41. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes determining an orientation of the display with
respect to a user as a function of the first data and changing the
orientation of the display from a first display orientation to a
second display orientation as a function of the first data and the
second data.
42. The method according to claim 41, wherein the first display
orientation is a landscape mode and the second display orientation
is a portrait mode.
43. The method according to claim 41, wherein the first display
orientation is a portrait mode and the second display orientation
is a landscape mode.
44. The method according to claim 26, wherein the predetermined
procedure includes adjusting an image captured by an image
capturing device as a function of the first data at the time the
image was captured.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This Application claims the benefit of the U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/559,735 filed on Apr. 6, 2004, which is
expressly incorporated herein, by reference.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0002] Business and individuals today rely on mobile computing
products/arrangements ("MCPs", e.g., bar code readers, PDAs,
laptops, two-way pagers, mobile phones, digital cameras, mobile
optical readers) in a multitude of situations ranging from basic
everyday tasks to highly specialized procedures. As the virtues and
benefits of utilizing MCPs continue to be realized across
increasingly diverse industries, the features and capabilities of
these products are expanding at a correspondingly rapid pace. In
many industries, MCPs have gone from fashionable accessories to
essential business components used by all levels of personnel.
[0003] Accordingly, a great need has developed for MCPs to perform
complicated tasks quickly, efficiently and reliably. However, as
conventional MCPs are fitted with more advanced gadgetry and
software features, sacrifices are often made with respect to
durability, power management and user-friendliness. While many
methods have been devised attempting to resolve these difficulties,
MCPs currently continue to suffer from problems of inefficient
power usage, complicated operational procedures and on-screen
menus, and the inability to tolerate the harsh industrial
conditions to which the products may be subjected.
[0004] In the ongoing search for solutions to these problems, one
aspect of MCPs that has remained overlooked is a product's kinetic
state. From an MCP's motions, valuable information may be extracted
from which various predetermined procedures directed at
accomplishing some useful end or preventing some harmful result may
be executed. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to detect,
interpret and utilize the movements experienced by MCPs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Described is a system and method for monitoring a mobile
computing Arrangement. The arrangement may include a sensor and a
processor. The sensor detects first data of an event including a
directional orientation and a motion of the arrangement. The
processor compares the first data to second data to determine if at
least one predetermined procedure is to be executed. The second
data may include a predetermined threshold range of changes in the
directional orientation and the motion. If the predetermined
procedure is to be executed, the processor selects the
predetermined procedure which corresponds to the event as a
function of the first data. Subsequently, the predetermined
procedure is executed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a mobile network
according to the present invention.
[0007] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a mobile computing
product/Arrangement according to the present invention.
[0008] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a method for
monitoring a mobile computing product/Arrangement according to the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0009] The present invention may be further understood with
reference to the following description and the appended drawings,
wherein like elements are provided with the same reference
numerals. The present invention relates to an MCP which includes a
sensor that monitors the MCP's directional orientation and motion.
In particular, the sensor may measure the MCP's acceleration,
velocity, or angular velocity in any direction, orientation with
respect to the user, the forces on the MCP upon impact, the
direction of impact, or any other shocks or movements to which the
MCP may be subjected. These measurements may be contrasted with
prerecorded movement patterns or predefined levels of acceptable
and unacceptable movement. As will be described below,
predetermined procedures may then be executed that may be useful in
a wide range of applications, including but not limited to abuse
indication, power management, gesture input, compensating for
undesired motion, display orientation, and security.
[0010] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a mobile network 100
according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the mobile
network 100 may be operating within a Wireless Local Area Network
("WLAN") 40 in an infrastructure mode. The mobile network 100 may
also include an access point ("AP") 10, a plurality of MCPs 20, 25,
a communications network 50, a server 60, and a client computer 70.
The MCP 20 is height hl from the ground 30, and the MCP 25 is
height h2 from the ground 30. Both MCPs 20, 25 are situated on a
three dimensional plane in which they may translate, rotate, pivot,
accelerate or otherwise be in motion. Those of skill in the art
will understand that the exemplary embodiments of the present
invention may be used with any mobile network and that the mobile
network 100 is only exemplary.
[0011] The WLAN 40 may use a version of the IEEE 802.11 or a
similar protocol. One benefit of using a version of the IEEE 802.11
standard is that existing infrastructures using that standard may
be adapted to support the system with minimal modifications. With
only a simple software upgrade, most MCPs 20, 25 supporting that
standard may operate according to the present invention. In
alternative exemplary embodiments, different wireless protocols or
technologies (e.g., Bluetooth, WWAN, WPAN, infrared) may also be
utilized.
[0012] Referring back to the mobile network 100, the AP 10 may be,
for example, a router, switch or bridge that forms the connection
between the WLAN 40 and the communications network 50. Coupled to
the WLAN 40 are the MCPs 20, 25, and coupled to the communications
network 50 are the server 60 and the client computer 70. The
communications network 50 is utilized to transmit data between the
various components of the mobile network 100. This communications
network 50 can be any network usable to transmit data, such as
between microprocessors, and may be a local area network ("LAN"), a
wide area network ("WAN") or the Internet. The range of the MCPs
20, 25 are restricted only by the extent of the communications
network 50. When the communications network 50 includes the
Internet, the range can be essentially unlimited, as long as the AP
10 connected to the communications network 50 is within range of
each of the MCPs 20, 25. Therefore, the AP 10 does not have to
physically be in the vicinity of the server 60 or the client
computer 70, as it may be remotely located by extending network
cabling or through the Internet.
[0013] The MCPs 20, 25 may be any type of computer or processor
based mobile device (e.g., a bar code reader, a PDA, a laptop, a
two-way pager, a mobile phone, a digital camera, a mobile optical
reader). Since the MCPs 20, 25 are portable, they are capable of
connecting to a wireless network, and are sufficiently small to be
easily carried. The MCPs 20, 25 may be designed for specific
purposes, such as reading barcodes, or may be handheld devices with
different purposes, to which various functionalities have been
added through separate software modules. In one exemplary
embodiment, the MCPs 20, 25 are based on a multi-purpose personal
digital assistant ("PDA") such as those running the Microsoft
Pocket PC 2003 operating system, or similar.
[0014] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of an MCP 20, 25
according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the MCP 20,
25 may include a processor 110, a sensor 120, a non-removable
memory 130, a removable memory 140, and an antennae 150. The
processor 110 is a central processing unit ("CPU") that executes
instructions on measurements taken by the sensor 120 and performs
procedures such as storing the result in memory or transmitting the
result to remote devices through the antennae 150. The
non-removable memory 130 is any type of memory component integrated
into the electronic architecture of the MCP 20, 25 and may be
temporary (e.g., random access memory, or RAM) or permanent (e.g.,
a hard-disk drive). The removable memory 140 may be any type of
detachable memory component that may connect to the MCPs 20, 25
through an expansion interface (e.g., a FLASH interface, a USB
interface, a firewire interface, etc.).
[0015] In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the sensor 120 is
integrated into the MCPs 20, 25. This sensor 120 may be a device
coupled to an electronic architecture of the MCPs 20, 25 that
dispatches data to a separate memory device, or it may be coupled
to at least a portion of another device in the architecture. For
instance, in the latter embodiment, the sensor 120 may be coupled
to a memory arrangement in which event data (e.g., a first data of
an event relating to the MCP 20, 25's movements with values above a
certain threshold) is stored. In an alternative exemplary
embodiment, the sensor 120 may be a separate external device that
connects to the MCPs 20, 25 through an expansion slot (e.g., a
sensor with a FLASH, USB, firewire or similar interface).
[0016] The sensor 120 may be any type of measurement device capable
of monitoring directional orientation and motion, and may be based
on, for example, a G-shock sensor, a switch, an accelerometer, a
strain gage, a piezo, MEMS technologies, or combinations of the
like. The directional orientation may include any angular movement
value with respect to at least one three-dimensional axis of the
MCPs 20, 25. The motion may include, for example, a velocity value,
an acceleration value, or an angular velocity value. Although the
sensor 120 may be of any size, the sensor 120 is preferably small
enough so that any added weight and space occupied on the MCPs 20,
25 are negligible. Because the MCPs 20, 25 usually operate on
batteries, the sensor 120 should also have a low power consumption.
In addition, the sensor 120 should be durable enough to withstand
the abusive environments of which its purpose is to monitor.
[0017] The sensor 120 detects changes in the directional
orientation and motion of the MCP 20, 25 and generates the first
data. The first data is provided to the processor 110 which
compares the first data to predetermined second data which includes
threshold range values. For example, the second data may be a
prerecorded rotation of the MCP 20, 25 by ninety degrees, the
detection of which may indicate of the occurrence of an event. The
second data may be a maximum height from which the MCP 20, 25 is
dropped. Subsequently, based on the first data, a particular
predetermined procedure is selected and executed.
[0018] The first data may be retained for each instance where the
measurements of the sensor 120 are above or below the second data
which specifies an acceptable threshold level. The processor 110
may also append additional information to the retained first data
including sequential numbering of the events, time and date for
each event, acceleration data, data corresponding to a status of
the MCPs 20, 25 at the date/time of the event, environmental
factors, a direction of the shock, etc.
[0019] Depending on the application of the present invention,
various predetermined procedures may be performed based on the
first data. For example, if desired, the first data may be stored
in the non-removable memory 130 and/or the removable memory 140
prior to executing any other procedures. Alternatively, the first
data may not need to be stored locally at all, instead it is
transmitted in real-time for storage and/or further processing by a
central server or a remote device. Such a transmission may be
accomplished via the communication arrangement of the mobile
network 100 of FIG. 1. The WLAN 40 and communications network 50
comprise the communication arrangement, and the server 60 and the
client computer 70 comprise the central server or the remote
device.
[0020] The foregoing embodiments of the mobile network 100 and the
MCPs 20, 25 are not to be construed so as to limit the present
invention in any way. As will be apparent to those skilled in the
art, different types of MCPs 20, 25 may be used to communicate over
the same data network, as long as they work under compatible
protocols. Other configurations with different numbers of MCPs,
APs, or client and server computers may also be used to implement
the system and method of the present invention.
[0021] In an alternative exemplary embodiment of the mobile network
100, the MCPs 20, 25 may connect to the communications network 50
directly via wires despite being portable. For example, rather than
real-time reporting, the MCPs 20, 25 may only be required to
connect periodically to the mobile network 100 for updates on their
movements as monitored by their respective sensors 120.
Furthermore, no wireless capabilities or communications network 50
may be needed entirely. In such a situation, the sensor 120 makes
measurements to be processed internally for use locally by the
users or manufacturers. For example, the measurements may be used
to suggest replacing or repairing the MCP 20, 25 because it has
exceeded a threshold of abuse and is in danger of
malfunctioning.
[0022] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary method 300 for monitoring the MCPs
20, 25. In the step 310, certain distinct characteristics of events
(e.g., the second data) are identified and programmed into the MCPs
20, 25. The second data may include a specific threshold value
and/or a threshold range of changes in the directional orientation
and motion of the MCPs 20, 25. The characteristics may include, for
example, maximum or minimum threshold values or prerecorded
motions. The user (e.g., the manufacturer, a system administrator
or any other authorized person) may designate or, if desired, make
changes to these characteristics. For instance, the MCPs 20, 25 may
be prepackaged by the manufacturer with static abuse maximum values
that are inaccessible or not editable by the user. Alternatively,
the threshold may simply be dynamic default values adjustable to
future specifications.
[0023] In the step 320, the MCP 20, 25 is continuously monitored by
the sensor 120 for changes in the directional orientation and/or
motion/movements that may constitute the occurrence of a predefined
event. An event may include, for example, the MCP 20, 25 being
dropped, jerked, tugged, shaken a certain number of times within a
certain time period, or remaining still for a specified duration.
Whenever the MCP 20, 25 experiences detectable motion or an
extended lack thereof, the first data is generated. The sensor 120
may make no effort to differentiate between or prioritize
directional orientation or motion values, returning all results to
the processor 110 for processing.
[0024] In the step 330, the processor 110 compares the measured
first data with the predetermined second data. If the
characteristics of the first data match those of the second data,
the processor 110 determines that an event has occurred and a
corresponding predetermined procedure needs to be selected. At the
occurrence of an event, the processor 110 may also attach to the
first data at least one of a time/date of each event, a status of
the computing arrangement, a direction of the acceleration, and
environmental data. In an alternative exemplary embodiment of the
present invention, the above-described attachment may occur as a
part of the predetermined procedure.
[0025] For example, when the sensor 120 detects that the MCP 20, 25
came to an abrupt stop after being accelerated for a short period
of time, the processor 110, after comparing that information to at
least a portion of the preprogrammed second data, may conclude that
the MCP 20, 25 dropped to the ground 30. From the magnitude and
duration of acceleration, the processor 110 may also determine
whether the drop was forcibly induced (e.g., by an abusive user)
and the distance h1 or h2 of its displacement. Furthermore, from
the direction of impact and other data, the processor 110 may also
approximate the part of the MCP 20, 25 that initially made contact
with the ground 30 and whether any critical components were
directly impacted. Such information may be attached to the first
data and may be helpful in determining whether the fall poses a
danger to the MCP 20, 25's continued operation.
[0026] Due to practical considerations (e.g., memory limitations
and processing power) and because not all event occurrences may be
significant, the reporting and recording of all movements of the
MCP 20, 25 no matter how minor, although possible, may in some
instances be impractical. Movements within acceptable limits may be
superfluous and have no bearing to applications of the present
invention. Therefore, in the step 340, the first data is measured
against threshold values contained in the second data. The first
data is retained only when at least one event and/or reading
satisfies the threshold values or matches the prerecorded motions
of the second data; otherwise the first data is discarded and the
method 300 is returned to the step 320 for the monitoring of new
events.
[0027] If the first data falls within the threshold of the second
data, the method 300 continues to the step 350 where the processor
110 selects, as a function of the first data, at least one
predetermined procedure for execution. In particular, the processor
110 analyzes the measured first data and determines the
corresponding procedure of the plurality of predetermined
procedures.
[0028] In the step 360, the predetermined procedure is executed.
The execution of the predetermined procedure may depend upon the
specific application of the present invention. For example, the
first data may be stored into the non-removable memory 130 or the
removable memory 140. A plurality of stored first data records form
an event history of the MCP 20, 25. The event history may be
readily accessible to any user of the MCP 20, 25, or may be
password protected and/or encrypted so that only authorized
personnel (e.g., the network administrator or the manufacturer) may
gain access.
[0029] Other examples of predetermined procedures include
encrypting the first data so that it may be accessible only by an
authorized user, transmitting the first data to a remote computer,
analyzing the event history of the MCP 20, 25 for service
recommendations, reporting the cause of any damages, issuing
precautionary warnings of the MCP 20, 25's condition, changing the
MCP 20, 25's display, powering off, etc. After the predetermined
procedure has been successfully executed, the method 300 may resume
again at the step 320 to monitor for new event occurrences.
[0030] The examples discussed in the foregoing discussion are for
illustrative purposes only and are not representative of all
possible applications of the present invention. Rather, the present
invention may be applied across a diverse range of industries,
practice areas, and purposes. The description that follows further
outlines the features and advantages of several exemplary
applications of the present invention. However, as will be apparent
to one skilled in the art, the MCPs 20, 25 may benefit from and
make use of an added motion sensor component according to the
present invention in many other ways.
[0031] As MCPs 20, 25 are increasingly being integrated into the
daily operations of businesses today, a need has developed to
ensure that these MCPs 20, 25 can withstand the rugged treatment to
which they are often subjected. Conventional design and
construction techniques yield MCPs 20, 25 that exhibit levels of
performance that are only marginal in terms of reliability and
durability under the demands of industrial environments. Damaged or
malfunctioning MCPs 20, 25 may have devastating effects on the
numerous businesses currently relying on mobile solutions. For
example, MCPs 20, 25 that are completely inoperable may result in
costly delays while replacement products are sought. Also, MCPs 20,
25 with latent malfunctions may cause undetectable computational
errors that corrupt systems and induce further errors down the
line.
[0032] Typically, the user of the MCP 20, 25 has no reliable way of
anticipating malfunctions and only discovers a problem as it
manifests itself. By that time, damage has often already occurred.
Therefore, there is a great need for IT and customer service
personnel be able to monitor and accurately determine when the MCP
20, 25 has surpassed an intolerable threshold of abuse. This may be
accomplished by establishing measured levels of acceptable and
unacceptable usage profiles according to the exemplary embodiments
of the present invention. In this way, user profiles may be
established and predictions may be made of when the MCP 20, 25
should be replaced prior to it actually malfunctioning. In
instances where the MCP 20, 25 is being abused, the customer may
intercede to minimize the abusive treatment, thereby reducing the
amount of service to and/or replacement of the MCP 20, 25 required
and lowering the total cost of ownership.
[0033] Referring to the exemplary method 300 of FIG. 3, for
example, a maximum level tolerable abuse may be defined in terms of
the number of times the MCP 20, 25 is dropped to the ground 30.
Thus, in the step 310, a minimum height constituting a drop and
maximum number of drops may be specified as a second data. The MCPs
20, 25 may be configured to only record values exceeding the
predefined magnitudes. Accordingly, if a threshold for drop
altitude were set somewhere between h1 and h2, the MCP 20 dropping
to the ground 30 from the height hi would not appear in its event
history, but the MCP 25 dropping to the ground 30 from the height
h2 would. In both cases, the sensor 120 generates a first data
relating to velocity and acceleration values, and are forwarded to
the processor 110. The processor 110, after comparing the first
data to the second data, then determines that a drop has occurred
and attaches certain other event data. After comparing the first
data to the predefined threshold values, the first data is either
retained or discarded. Finally, a predetermined procedure is
selected based on the first data and executed.
[0034] In other exemplary embodiments, the MCPs 20, 25 may
similarly be directed to only retain and execute procedures when
the first data indicates some form of an abuse. For example, the
MCPs 20, 25 may be programmed to execute a procedure only after a
predetermined number of events occurring within a predetermined
time period has been detected. Furthermore, the MCPs 20, 25 may
instead only retain and perform operations when the first data
shows an impact to certain critical components or that are oriented
in a certain predetermined direction and/or are of a certain
predetermined force.
[0035] As previously mentioned, the predetermined procedure may
vary depending on the specific application of the present
invention. For example, in abuse indication, the predetermined
procedure may simply be a real-time on-screen display of the
updated event history of the MCP 20, 25. If the MCP 20, 25 is being
exposed to usage profiles beyond its intended use, it may also be
desirable to alert the user through visible warning (e.g.,
on-screen precautionary displays, flashing LEDs), audible sirens
(e.g., using a speaker, headset, receiver) or mechanical alerts
(e.g., vibrations, pager motors).
[0036] Furthermore, usage profiles detrimental to the MCP 20, 25
may be brought to the attention of a remote party with an interest
in its condition. IT and customer service personnel, for example,
may monitor the MCP 20, 25's event history in real-time, on-site or
off-site, through the communication links of the mobile network
100. In instances where real-time monitoring is impossible or
impractical, updates may instead be made in periodic or
predetermined intervals. For example, the MCP 20, 25 may have no
wireless communication capabilities, may be beyond the wireless
operating range of the AP 10, or it may be desirable to conserve
the limited bandwidth of the mobile network 110. In such
situations, the number and level of unacceptable usage instances
experienced by the MCP 20, 25 may be archived for retrieval at a
later time. A periodic servicing and maintenance schedule may be
established, during which remote parties may obtain updates. The
event history may also be downloaded at the end of a shift when the
MCP 20, 25 is returned to a docking station or charging cradle.
[0037] With the MCP 20, 25's event history, remote parties (e.g.,
IT and customer service personnel) may perform operations beyond
servicing the particular MCP 20, 25. This information may be used
by manufacturers for research and development for the benefit of
later MCPs 20, 25. By establishing the usage patterns of MCPs 20,
25 operating under similar conditions, future specifications may be
tailored to actual conditions of use, adjusting levels of
durability based on the expected conditions to which the MCPs 20,
25 may be subjected. Acceptable standards of motion data may then
be refined and monitored for excessive abuse according to a new set
of criteria.
[0038] Still another advantage of the present invention to
manufacturers is the ability to archive and retrieve warranty
information. Manufacturers' warranties typically only insure
against defects arising from production or out of the normal course
of usage of the MCP 20, 25, neither of which includes the MCP 20,
25 being dropped in a way that may violate its specifications or
being otherwise abused by the customer. However, without any actual
knowledge of the MCP 20, 25's usage, manufacturers presented by a
customer with a malfunctioning MCP 20, 25 often has no method to
accurately determine the cause of the malfunction. If usage
information is available either within the MCP 20, 25's memory or
in transmissions to the manufacturer, warranty claims may more
easily be verified or discredited.
[0039] In addition to interacting with the user or remote parties,
the MCPs 20, 25 of the present invention may also autonomously
monitor their own condition and take actions accordingly. The
probability of losing critical data increases substantially when
the MCPs 20, 25 are used beyond their intended usage profiles or
environmental design specifications. The exemplary embodiments of
the present invention allow the MCPs 20, 25 to take preventative
measures to ensure against harm during an abusive event. For
example, while an MCP 20, 25 is experiencing excessive motion
beyond a predetermined usage threshold value (e.g., as the MCP 20,
25 is dropping to the ground 30 from height h1 or h2), the
processor 110 in the step 360 may terminate programs containing
critical information to prevent data corruption. Access to the
non-removable memory 130 or the removable memory 140 by any other
components may also be temporarily disabled, avoiding any possible
loss of data. If necessary, the MCP 20, 25 may power off or switch
into standby mode and not be allowed to resume operations until the
abusive event has passed or subsided back within an acceptable
range.
[0040] Although the exemplary applications of the present invention
in foregoing description has primarily focused on abuse indication,
the present invention may also be used in a variety of other
settings. As described below, these settings include, for example,
power management, gesture input, compensating for undesired motion,
display orientation, and security.
[0041] The power management properties of MCPs have always been a
primary focus of product design engineers. Due to their limited
size and weight and their mobile nature, MCPs usually have limited
power supplies (e.g., rechargeable or disposable battery packs).
Developing MCPs that operate for long periods of time, without
sacrificing mobility, is an ongoing design challenge. Designing a
robust power management system that optimizes and conserves power
is a critical element in addressing this challenge.
[0042] Understanding the MCP 20, 25 directional orientation with
respect to the user is possible by incorporating the previously
described sensor 120. As such, it is possible to enhance current
power management systems by turning on and off various systems when
appropriate. For example, many MCPs 20, 25 have a display and
backlight that use a large amount of the available power supply.
Utilizing the orientation aspect of the sensor may enable the MCP
20, 25 to keep the display and backlight on only when the display
is within the user's viewing angle and range. By employing the
exemplary system and method of the present invention, when the MCP
20, 25 is rotated past the viewing angle or brought beyond the
visible distance for a predetermined time period, the display and
backlight may shut off to save power. When the MCP 20, 25 is
rotated back within user's viewing angle or brought within the
visible range, the display and backlight may instantaneously turn
back on.
[0043] Another way in which the present invention may optimize the
power management of the MCP 20, 25 may be by switching it into a
power conservative state when not in use. Conventional power
management systems typically shut down the MCP 20, 25 or switch it
into idle mode after a preset amount of time transpires with no
interaction from the user. The preset time period is usually
adjustable by the MCP 20, 25 software. The present invention uses
the lack of motion as an additional trigger to switch the MCP 20,
25 into the idle or shut down modes, thus taking advantage of
tendency of the MCPs 20, 25 to be in motion when in use, and
conserving energy when at rest. The amount of motionless time
needed to trigger the power saving state may also be adjustable by
the MCP 20, 25 software.
[0044] Continuing with some exemplary applications of the present
invention, the combined sensor and MCP 20, 25 of the present
invention may also simplify the MCP 20, 25's operation through a
gesture input. The advantages afforded by increasingly advanced
computing products are often offset by sacrifices to usability and
user-friendliness. Elaborate menus, onscreen buttons, procedures or
the like frequently frustrate users and impede rather than advance
productivity. The ability to sense and analyze motion through the
present invention enables the MCP 20, 25 to recognize and react to
various motions or user gestures. These motions or gestures may be
pre-established to trigger the MCP 20, 25 to perform various
functions that would otherwise need to be actuated manually.
[0045] For example, if the MCP 20, 25 equipped with a display is in
document viewing mode and orientation, a quick flip of the user's
wrist detected by the sensor 120 may coincide with the software
application flipping to the next page of the document. In another
example, when long lists of application options are being displayed
to the user, a wrist roll gesture could trigger the MCP 20, 25 to
start scrolling down the list. In still another example, if the MCP
20, 25 is a device with data capturing capabilities (e.g., an
imager, scanner, camera), a motion detected corresponding to a
certain pre-recorded gesture may trigger the MCP 20, 25 to turn on
the data capture functionality.
[0046] Still another advantage of the present invention is the
ability to compensate for an undesirable motion. Although not as
detrimental to the MCPs 20, 25 as motion constituting abuse, minor
motion values may still adversely affect applications that require
as little motion as possible. For example, MCPs 20, 25 with data
capture capabilities utilizing various camera technologies produce
blurred or out of focus pictures when in motion. Various methods
have been developed attempting to offset such undesirable effects,
such as weights or stands that minimizes or cancels out extraneous
motion.
[0047] The present invention may be utilized to address this
problem without the need for cumbersome physical attachments or
mechanical devices. Undesirable motion may be recognized,
processed, and de-sensitized through various software applications
employed by the MCP 20, 25 under the exemplary embodiments of the
present invention. The MCP 20, 25 may identify a non-acceptable
operating situation to the user due to motion through the display
or other alert mechanisms, and/or automatically have the software
compensate for the motion during the data capture event.
[0048] Furthermore, in MCPs 20, 25 equipped with displays, the
orientation sensing capability of the present invention may also
conveniently adjust the display orientation with respect to the
user. MCPs 20, 25 typically format display data in landscape or
portrait mode. Newer mobile software applications enable the
display data format to be manually switched between the two. The
present invention allows the orientation of the MCP 20, 25 to be
monitored relative to the user, enabling the MCP 20, 25 to
automatically switch the display data format between the landscape
and portrait modes.
[0049] As a final exemplary application of the present invention,
the combined sensor and MCP 20, 25 of the present invention may be
used for purposes of security. Because the MCPs 20, 25 are
portable, they are easily misplaced or stolen. By employing the
exemplary system and method of the present invention, the MCPs 20,
25 may be able to incorporate security features that indicate their
location to the user or prevent use by unauthorized personnel. For
example, when the MCP 20, 25 is at rest for a preset period of time
(e.g., during recharge, overnight storage), it may enter a secure
mode and be programmed to trigger an alarm when motion to the MCP
20, 25 is detected. This alarm may be local to the MCP 20, 25,
using audible, visual, or mechanical features. At the same time or
as an alternative, the alarm may be triggered in a remote device
on-site or off-site using the previously described communication
systems. If the MCP 20, 25 utilized tracking technologies (e.g.,
global positioning system), it may also convey its location. The
security features may additionally lock terminal applications,
preventing the MCP 20, 25 from being used until an authorized user
password is entered.
[0050] The present invention has been described with the reference
to the above exemplary embodiments. One skilled in the art would
understand that the present invention may also be successfully
implemented if modified. Accordingly, various modifications and
changes may be made to the embodiments without departing from the
broadest spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in
the claims that follow. The specification and drawings,
accordingly, should be regarded in an illustrative rather than
restrictive sense.
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