U.S. patent application number 12/284405 was filed with the patent office on 2010-03-25 for mobile communication device.
Invention is credited to Alyssa S. Black, Gerald R. Black.
Application Number | 20100075631 12/284405 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42038178 |
Filed Date | 2010-03-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100075631 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Black; Gerald R. ; et
al. |
March 25, 2010 |
Mobile communication device
Abstract
The mobile communication device is for use as a cell phone, as a
wireless identity authentication device with other electronic
devices (with cell phones, computers, and ATM's), and as a headset
in the form of an earphone, an eye-covering, or a head covering for
audio communication with a central processor, another mobile
terminal a cell phone, or a pda. The mobile communication device is
hands-free being worn on or near the face, and only requires a
finger touching for bimodal identity authentication. An audio
receiver is compatible with the ear of the user and a microphone
transmits words spoken by the user, electronically therethrough. A
fingerprint sensor is mounted and positioned within the device.
When user authentication is required, the user is prompted to touch
the fingerprint sensor, and said fingerprint data is compared with
fingerprint images of authorized users. In another aspect of the
invention, mobile communication device is an eye-covering, a head
covering, or an identification badge including a fingerprint sensor
and a processor and is used for wireless authentication of the
user.
Inventors: |
Black; Gerald R.;
(Southfield, MI) ; Black; Alyssa S.; (Grand
Rapids, MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Gerald R. Black, Esq.
Suite 67A, 30320 Southfield Road
Southfield
MI
48076
US
|
Family ID: |
42038178 |
Appl. No.: |
12/284405 |
Filed: |
September 22, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
455/410 ;
726/4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04M 2250/74 20130101;
G07C 9/257 20200101; H04W 12/06 20130101; H04M 1/6066 20130101;
G06F 21/6245 20130101; H04M 2250/12 20130101; G06F 21/32 20130101;
H04M 1/66 20130101; H04L 63/0861 20130101; H04M 1/05 20130101; H04W
4/80 20180201; G07C 9/26 20200101 |
Class at
Publication: |
455/410 ;
726/4 |
International
Class: |
H04M 1/66 20060101
H04M001/66 |
Claims
1. A mobile communication device comprising: a headset enabling a
digital connection to a communications system; and a headset
processor, said headset processor being in electrical communication
with a headset fingerprint sensor, the headset fingerprint sensor
for capturing sensed fingerprint data of a headset user, the
headset processor including headset processor memory for retaining
sensed fingerprint data, said communications system authenticating
user identity as determined by a system processor, said
authenticating of user identity being made at least in part based
upon a comparison of said sensed fingerprint data and reference
fingerprint data of at least one authorized user.
2. The mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein the system
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling the user to access or enter secure
data.
3. The mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein the system
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling the user to make a secure
communication.
4. The mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein the system
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling physical access to a secure area.
5. The mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein said headset
processor enables an initial screening of said sensed fingerprint
data and said reference fingerprint data of at least one authorized
user.
6. The mobile communication device of claim 1, further comprising
an audio receiver that enables said user of said mobile
communication device to pick-up audio signals, said user touching
said fingerprint sensor in response to an audio prompt, said audio
prompt being received by said user through said audio receiver.
7. mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein said system
processor is external to said headset.
8. A mobile communication device comprising: a handset including a
handset fingerprint sensor, a handset processor, and a
short-distance wireless communication device that enables wireless
communication between said headset and said handset, said handset
processor including handset processor memory for retaining sensed
handset fingerprint data, user authentication being determined by a
handset processor when said handset fingerprint sensor is used,
said handset processor disposed in said handset, said handset
processor making an authentication determination based at least in
part upon a comparison of said sensed handset fingerprint data and
handset reference fingerprint data of at least one authorized user
when said handset fingerprint sensor is used by said user to
authenticate user identity; and a headset including a headset
fingerprint sensor, and a headset processor, said headset processor
including headset processor memory for retaining sensed headset
fingerprint data, user authentication being determined by said
headset processor when said headset fingerprint sensor is used,
said headset processor disposed in said headset, said headset
processor making a determination based at least in part upon a
comparison of said sensed headset fingerprint data captured from
the headset fingerprint sensor and handset reference fingerprint
data of at least one authorized user when said headset fingerprint
sensor is used by said user to authenticate user identity.
9. The mobile communication device of claim 8, wherein the headset
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling the user to access or enter secure
data.
10. The mobile communication device of claim 8, wherein the headset
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling the user to make a secure
communication.
11. The mobile communication device of claim 8, wherein the headset
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling physical access to a secure area.
12. The mobile communication device of claim 8, wherein said
headset processor enables an initial screening of said sensed
fingerprint data and said reference fingerprint data of at least
one authorized user.
13. The mobile communication device of claim 8, further comprising
an audio receiver that enables said user of said mobile
communication device to pick-up audio signals, said user touching
said fingerprint sensor in response to an audio prompt, said audio
prompt being received by said user through said audio receiver.
14. A mobile communication device for providing bimodal biometric
authentication of a user, said mobile communication device being
digitally connected to a communications system, said mobile
communication device comprising: a headset enabling a digital
connection to a communications systems, said headset including a
microphone for transmitting user voice data, said user voice data
having biometric properties, said microphone enabling capture of
user voice data; and a headset processor, said headset processor
being in electrical communication with a headset fingerprint
sensor, the headset fingerprint sensor enabling capture of sensed
fingerprint data of a headset user, said headset processor
including headset processor memory for retaining user voice data
and user sensed fingerprint data, said communications system
authenticating user identity as determined by a systems processor;
whereby said system processor enables an authentication
determination of a user to be made based at least in part upon a
comparison of said user voice data and reference voice data of at
least one authorized user; and whereby said system processor
enables an authentication determination of a user to be made based
at least in part upon a comparison of said sensed fingerprint data
captured from the headset fingerprint sensor and reference
fingerprint data of at least one authorized user.
15. The mobile communication device of claim 14, wherein said
system processor is external to said headset.
16. The mobile communication device of claim 14, wherein the system
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling the user to access or enter secure
data.
17. The mobile communication device of claim 14, wherein the system
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling the user to make a secure
communication.
18. The mobile communication device of claim 14, wherein the system
processor determines authentication of user identity by use of user
finger data captured through the headset fingerprint sensor, said
authentication enabling physical access to a secure area.
19. The mobile communication device of claim 14, wherein said
headset processor enables an initial screening of said sensed
fingerprint data and said reference fingerprint data of at least
one authorized user.
20. The mobile communication device of claim 14, further comprising
an audio receiver that enables said user of said mobile
communication device to pick-up audio signals, said user touching
said fingerprint sensor in response to an audio prompt, said audio
prompt being received by said user through said audio receiver.
Description
[0001] This application is related to and claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/783,785, entitled "Mobile Terminal,"
filed on Mar. 20, 2006; U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/788,084, entitled "Mobile Terminal With Glasses or Cap," filed
on Mar. 28, 2006; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/792,570,
entitled "Mobile Terminal with Head Covering," filed on Apr. 16,
2006; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/792,571, entitled "Mobile
Terminal with Glasses or Head Covering," filed on Apr. 16, 2006;
U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/801,634, entitled "Mobile
Terminal With Glasses Or Cap," filed on May 18, 2006; U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/813,402, entitled "Mobile Terminal,"
filed on Jun. 14, 2006; U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/861,917, entitled "Mobile Terminal," filed on Nov. 30, 2006;
U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/877,998, entitled "Mobile
Terminal Device," filed on Dec. 29, 2006; and PCT Application
WO/2008/008101, entitled "Mobile Communication Device," filed on
Mar. 20, 2007.
FIELD OF USE
[0002] The invention involves a mobile communication device that is
dual purpose for use with a head set of a cell phone or pda, or as
a stand-alone unit, and more particularly, as a hands-free mobile
communication device is for use with to gain access to the most
secure physical, financial, and data access.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In recent years, we have witnessed exponential growth in the
penetration rate of mobile telephones and personal digital
assistants. The automobile was one of the first environments to
become widely populated by cell phones beyond the home and office,
allowing people to keep in touch while on the move, or while stuck
in traffic. Due to the obvious dangers of holding a cell phone in
one hand and driving with the other, many regions of the world
either strongly recommend or legally enforce hands-free telephone
operation in all moving vehicles. It is now illegal to use a
handset while driving.
[0004] If a user is performing a task that requires both hands,
then the user may not be able to interact with a device to receive
a communication. For example, if a parent is grocery shopping with
small children, the parent may not be able to handle a mobile
telephone to answer an incoming call. Similarly, if a mobile
telephone is carried in a purse or a backpack, the user may not be
able to locate and answer the telephone before the caller hangs up,
particularly if the user is also driving a vehicle. Furthermore,
the use of a headset may allow a user to perform such applications
without necessarily remaining stationary. Hands-free technology
also allows users to multi-task in comfort, resulting in increased
effectiveness and productivity.
[0005] We are becoming increasingly dependent upon computers to
store and access data that affects our lives. Computers are able to
remotely access time-sensitive information, on or near a real-time
basis from the Internet. It is now essential that a user have
access to computer data while at all times.
[0006] Currently, phone technology has is the wireless device of
choice and many other technologies (e.g.--cameras, smart-phones,
Internet connections) are being made compatible with the cell
phone.
[0007] Some cell phones provide hands-free units that permit the
user to talk without having to hold the handset. However, even with
the hands-free unit, the user must still dial the phone number or
speak the phone number to initiate the call. In general,
speech-recognition technology comprises a mechanism for receiving
an input voice signal, comparing the input voice signal with stored
voice signals, and determining if the input voice signal is
sufficiently similar to any of the stored voice signals. If there
is a match between the input and stored voice signals, instructions
or other data is generated by the device.
[0008] In the state-of-the-art headsets the loudspeakers,
microphones and communications transceiver devices are combined to
a single headset device which is then attached to the users ear. In
cordless and portable headset equipment only compact headset types
that are mounted on one ear are able to meet the high requirements
set by the user in regard to comfort and user friendliness.
[0009] A wearable computer provides the user with perfect recall of
previously collected information. Rather than attempting to emulate
human intelligence in the computer, wearable computing aims to
produce a synergistic combination of human and machine, in which
the human performs tasks that it is does better, while the computer
performs tasks that it does better. Wearable computing affords
mobility, personal empowerment, and the freedom from the need to be
connected by wire to a communications line. U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,526
(Jannard) discloses wireless interactive headset in the shape of
eyeglasses. And, U.S. Publication No. 20040204207 (Parker)
discloses a hat, or baseball cap, modified to include a removable
headset having a speaker and microphone and a rear mounted pocket
holding a cell phone. And, U.S. Publication No. 20050116811 (Eros
et al.) discloses a bracelet that the individual wears of a
verification signal sent by a central computer unit.
[0010] Looking at some other biometric technology, U.S. Pat. No.
6,325,285 (Baratelli) discloses a smart card with integrated
fingerprint reader. The sensing surface of the smart card is
located such that a users thumb is naturally positioned over the
sensing surface when the card is inserted into a suitable card
reader. U.S. Pat. No. 7,088,220 (Kotzin) discloses a wireless
communication device using a plurality of biometric sensors for
assessing the identity of a user requesting access to a feature or
service provided via the wireless communication device.
[0011] What is needed is a device that is ubiquitous to the user
that readily carried and located when needed, that comes is a
variety of fashions, and can be carried by the user that is
compatible with a cell phone or a computer-based wireless
communications device, which has become the platform for a broad
range of wireless technologies.
[0012] What is needed is a device that can confirm the identity of
the user in the most secure of all user applications involving
either financial security, physical security, or data security,
confirming irrefutably the identity of the user, providing bimodal
or even multimodal biometric authentication, while enabling the
convenience of the use of both hands at all times except when
submitting such biometric data.
[0013] What is needed is a series of multi-purpose headsets for
mobile terminals that are ubiquitous to the user to be able to
confirm user identify from any of a variety of locations, and use
such confirmation to gain physical access, financial access, and
data access from any location in a smooth and seamless manner.
[0014] What is needed is wireless identifier device that is a
headset, either as a stand-alone unit, with a cell phone, or with a
computer-based wireless communications device, that can be worn for
long periods of time with minimal discomfort to the user, that can
provide fingerprint certainty for all identity authentication, the
sensor being small, rugged, and inexpensive, the terminal enabling
the person to have use of both hands for driving a car, encourages
multi-tasking and enabling a user to access the most personal
records from essentially any location.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The most fundamental issue in the mobile communication
devices of the present invention is that of personal empowerment
controlled by the wearer. The mobile communication devices of the
present invention are hands-free systems that (1) do not require
encumbering wires, (2) can be embedded into existing products worn
on the head or about the face, (3) are phone-centric, use
speech-recognition technology, and are easy to use, (4) can readily
accept a user fingerprint sensor embedded into the device, (5) and
can be used in a wide range of applications.
[0016] The dual-purpose mobile communication devices of the present
invention are integrated into headsets; eye-coverings, such as
prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, or sports goggles; or
head-coverings, such as a baseball cap, a civilian hard hat, a
football helmet, a hoodie, or any other civilian head covering with
a bill that is worn near the mouth of the wearer and can be used as
a cell phone or computer-based wireless communications device, as a
communication device with another terminal, or as a mobile computer
terminal for audio communication with a central processor. The
terminal device can operate as a stand-atone unit or with a cell
phone, or computer-based wireless communications device. The mobile
communication device of the present invention can also be used as a
wireless identity authentication device with other electronic
devices, such as cell phones, computers, or ATM's.
[0017] A fingerprint sensor is embedded or mounted onto the device.
When user authentication is required, the user can be prompted to
touch the fingerprint sensor. Initially, a person who needs to be
authorized to use the terminal submits user data in a registration
process. Reference biometric prints are captured during the
registration prints, the biometric prints preferably being voice
prints, and finger and thumb prints for both hands. Then,
subsequently, when the person tries to either transmit or receive
signals through the terminal, a sensor in the terminal captures a
biometric of the voice, finger, or thumb, and compares such reading
against the reference prints of authorized users. If and only if
the prints match, user authentication is enabled. If the prints do
not match, access is denied.
[0018] Multimodal authentication is preferred since the use of more
than one authenticating factor decreases the likelihood of false
positives, that is, the likelihood of an unauthorized user gaining
access. The fingerprint is initially used, and the voiceprint is
used for confirmation. Alternatively, multiple fingerprint images
can be captured. Also, voice recognition is used to confirm the
identity of the person wearing the headset.
[0019] In the preferred embodiment of the headset of the present
invent, the headsets are "on" essentially all the time during the
business day providing each user with full agility and mobility
while in continuous audio communication. The headset enables each
agent to have both hands free, which is needed for processing
passengers.
[0020] The mobile communication device of the present invention is
any device that includes memory and processing power, that has
access to a central processing unit including memory and means for
delivering data (computer screen, audio receiver) to the user, and
means for the user to enter data (audio transmitter, keypad,
camera, touch sensitive screen) to the central processing unit,
such devices including but not limited to cell phones, cordless
phones, conventional wired phones, tethered phones, cordless
phones, walkie-talkies, handheld computers, personal digital
assistants, pen-based computers, remote controls, smart phones, and
similar-type device.
[0021] The mobile communication device of the present invention
affords and requires mobility, and the freedom from the need to be
connected by wire to an electrical outlet, or communications line.
Rather than attempting to emulate human intelligence in the
computer, as is a common goal of research in Artificial
Intelligence, the goal of these mobile terminals is to produce a
synergistic combination of human and machine, in which the human
performs tasks that it is better at, while the computer performs
tasks that it is better at.
[0022] Some of the advantages of the mobile communication device of
the present invent is that it is both hands-free and eyes-free; is
worn on the ear, face or head; can be easily found when needed;
provides fingerprint certainty; can be used for (a) physical
access; (b) data access; and (c) financial access; uses durable
sensors that are compatible with other biometric systems; uses
inexpensive sensors that are state-of-the-art; is compatible with
cell phones, handheld computers, and personal computers; and
provides a date-time stamp for all communications.
[0023] Short-distance wireless communication technologies are used
to transmit data from a sensor to a headset, from a headset to a
cellphone, from a headset to computer, or from an identification
device to a computer. The wireless communicating based on these
communication technologies can establish the cordless communication
between devices and terminals, thereby simplifying the device
connection work and, at the same time, enhancing convenience
because it is substantially unnecessary to select installation
spaces of the cordlessly connected devices.
[0024] To make a call using the mobile communication device of the
present invention, the user needs to speak into the microphone the
name or number that is sought. Speech-recognition technology is
used, much the same as deployed in vehicles. For example, U.S.
Publication No. 20050143134 (Harwood et al.) discloses a vehicular,
hands-free telephone system. The appliance uses text-to-speech to
transfer phonebook entries from the cell phone to memory of the
appliance. The appliance uses text-to-speech to read and display
text messages incoming to the cell phone for the operator to hear
and view. The appliance initiates connecting and disconnecting of
the cell phone with the appliance in response to voice commands of
the operator.
[0025] The term "headset", as used herein refers to a mobile
communication device for providing sounds into which sound signals
output from a sound device are heard by a user, and the voice of
the user is converted into electrical signals, the headset being
either a stand-alone unit, in digital communication with another
headset, a cell phone, or a computer. The headset enables the user
to communicate hands-free. The term "cap" as used herein refers to
a garment selected by a person to be worn as a fashion statement to
cover the head of the person to provide warmth to the head, to
protect the head from rain or snow, or to protect the eyes from the
sun.
[0026] For a more complete understanding of the mobile terminal of
the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed
description and accompanying drawings in which the presently
preferred embodiments of the invention are shown by way of example.
As the invention may be embodied in many forms without departing
from spirit of essential characteristics thereof, it is expressly
understood that the drawings are for purposes of illustration and
description only, and are not intended as a definition of the
limits of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIGS. 1A and 1B disclose two preferred embodiments of the
mobile communication device of the present invention.
[0028] FIGS. 1C, 1D, and 1E disclose three preferred embodiments of
the mobile communication device of the present invention in the
form of three different eye-coverings.
[0029] FIGS. 1F through 1K disclose additional preferred embodiment
of the mobile communication device of the present invention in the
form factor of various head coverings.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a schematic depicting the mobile communication
device of FIG. 1K being used for financial access, data access, or
physical access.
[0031] FIG. 3A discloses the mobile communication device of FIG. 1B
having a short-distance wireless communication with a flip
phone.
[0032] FIG. 3B discloses the mobile communication device of FIG. 1E
having a short-distance wireless communication with a pda.
[0033] FIG. 4A discloses the mobile communication device of FIG. 1C
being in short-distance wireless communication with various
conventional devices (a wrist screen, an IPOD.RTM., a laptop
computer, a handheld computer, a cell phone, a personal computer,
and a home entertainment center).
[0034] FIG. 4B discloses a preferred embodiment using a cell phone
being in short-distance wireless communication with a plurality of
different mobile communication devices of the present invention--a
head covering, an eye covering, and a headset.
[0035] FIG. 5 discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for a registration process for the mobile
communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B.
[0036] FIG. 6 discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for an identity confirmation method using the mobile
communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B.
[0037] FIG. 7A discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram using the mobile communication device of either FIG.
1A or 1B for wire transferring funds. FIG. 7B discloses a preferred
embodiment of a simplified logic diagram using the mobile
communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B for the buying stock
on the Internet. FIG. 7C discloses a preferred embodiment of a
simplified logic diagram using the mobile communication device of
either FIG. 1A or 1B for currency conversion.
[0038] FIG. 8 discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for using the mobile communication device of either
FIG. 1A or 1B for payment processing at a checkout terminal.
[0039] FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C disclose a shell for a cap-terminal of
the present invention, the shell, being compatible with multiple
conventional head coverings.
[0040] FIG. 10A discloses a conventional pair of glasses. FIG. 10B
and FIG. 10C disclose a preferred embodiment of the
processor/headset unit of the present invention that is compatible
with a wing or the frame, respectively, of the eyeglasses of FIG.
10A.
[0041] FIG. 11A discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for using the mobile communication device of either
FIG. 1A or 1B to access a garage door from inside a vehicle; and
FIG. 11B discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified logic
diagram for using the mobile communication device of either FIG. 1A
or 1B to access a car door from outside the vehicle.
[0042] FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C disclose three alternative preferred
embodiments of a simplified version of three additional embodiments
of the communication device of the present invention, the
communication device being deployed as an identification device in
a head covering (FIG. 12A), an ID badge (FIG. 12B), or an
eye-covering (FIG. 12C).
[0043] FIG. 13A discloses a simplified schematic for using the
mobile communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B to gain access
to an account at an ATM. Similarly, FIG. 13B discloses a simplified
schematic for using the mobile communication device of FIG. 1B to
gain access to a PC or secure data within the PC.
[0044] FIG. 14A discloses the identifier device of the present
invention as a head covering, an ID badge, or eyeglasses in direct
wireless communication with the handset of a cell phone to identify
the user or wearer of such identifier device; and FIG. 14B
discloses the identifier device of the present invention as a head
covering or eyeglasses in direct wireless communication with the
headset, the headset then being in direct wireless communication
with a handset of a cell phone for purposes of identifying the user
or wearer of such device.
[0045] FIG. 15A discloses a simplified schematic of another
preferred embodiment of the mobile communication device of the
present invention used as an identifier device; and FIG. 15B
discloses a simplified schematic of the preferred embodiment of the
mobile communication device of the present invention in a wearable
computer. FIG. 15C depicts a simplified logic diagram for speech
recognition using the mobile communication device of FIG. 1A or 1B,
the user speaking commands to the microphone that are used for
purposes of completing a phone call, for example.
[0046] FIG. 16A discloses a simplified block diagram of a personal
terminal-based security system;
[0047] FIG. 16B discloses a simplified block diagram of a corporate
terminal-based security system;
[0048] FIG. 16C discloses a simplified block diagram of a resort or
luxury cruise terminal-based security system; FIG. 16D discloses a
simplified block diagram of a hospital terminal-based security
system; and FIG. 16E discloses a simplified block diagram of a
law-enforcement terminal-based security system, each deploying one
of the mobile communication devices of FIG. 1A through 1K.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1A and 1B disclose two
preferred embodiments of the mobile communication device (10A and
10B) of the present invention. The mobile communication device is a
headset that is worn on the ear of a user. During routine usage,
the units are hands-free, and only require a finger touch or sweep
to authenticate the identity of the wearer.
[0050] The mobile communication device 10A of FIG. 1A is similar in
appearance to a Plantronic Discovers 655 headset, and the mobile
communication device 10B of FIG. 1B is similar in appearance to a
Nokia HDW-3 wireless headset. Each communication device includes an
audio receiver (12A and 12B), a microphone (15A and 15B), and a
processor (16A and 16B).
[0051] The core of the mobile communication device of the present
invention is a fingerprint sensor (14A and 14B respectively)
enabling the person wearing the headset to authenticate user
identity. The fingerprint sensor is commercially available from
Authentec. If an area sensor is to be used (as shown), the MBF 200
is commercially available from Fujitsu of Japan, and the FPC1010 is
commercially available from Fingerprint Cards AB of Gothenburg,
Sweden. If a sweep sensor is used, the sensor of choice is either
the Entrepad 1510 or the Entrepad 2510. The fingerprint is
generally submitted upon response to a system prompt submitted to
the wearer through the audio receiver. Another sweep sensor of
choice is manufactured by Atmel, the AT77C104, the FingerChip
having integrated navigation. The fingerprint sensor (14A or 14B)
not only protects the phone and its stored information, but enables
operators to provide new, profitable services such as mobile
commerce and wireless banking. The sensor also allows manufacturers
to easily add new features like gaming navigation, touch menu
scrolling, multi-finger speed dialing, hot key application launch,
favorite song and photo recall, and others that differentiate the
phone and improve the user experience.
[0052] The mobile communication device 10A of FIG. 1A includes a
power source 18A and is a self-contained unit. The power source 18A
is a battery and provides power to the microphone 15A and the audio
receiver 12A. The battery can be replaced or recharged. The mobile
communication device of FIG. 1B is a headset for use with a cell
phone, a computer, or a pda.
[0053] FIGS. 1C, 1D, and 1E disclose three preferred embodiments of
the dual-purpose mobile communication device of the present
invention (10C, 10D, and 10E) in the form of three different
eye-coverings. The mobile communication device 10C of FIG. 1C is a
pair of eyeglasses with corrective lenses. The mobile communication
device 10D of FIG. 1D is a pair of sports goggles. The goggles can
be used for bicycling, hand-gliding, mountain climbing, and the
like. The mobile communication device 10E of FIG. 1E is a pair of
sunglasses. Each eye-covering includes an audio receiver (12C, 12D,
and 12E), a microphone (15C, 15D, and 15E), and a processor (16C,
16D, and 16D), and each mobile communication device includes a
fingerprint sensor (14C, 14D, and 14E). The fingerprint sensor
(14C, 14D, and 14E) enables the wearer of the eye-covering to
authenticate user identity, the fingerprint generally being
submitted upon response to a system prompt submitted to the wearer
through the audio receiver (12C, 12D, and 12E). According to the
invention, the microphone 15C, 15D, and 15E is preferably an ultra
flat high-sensitivity one, preferably embedded on the underside of
the tens and hidden, and facing the wearer. Electronic
noise-reduction components to filter wind-generated noise from an
audio signal transmitted from the microphone (not shown), are also
located inside the frame, as well as suitable electrical
connections. Electrical contacts for continuity must be provided at
a corresponding hinge. As a result of the symmetry of the
eye-coverings, the audio receivers (12C, 12D, and 12E) can be
deployed for each ear, enabling the wearer to use the mobile
communication device to play stereophonic sound for listening to
music.
[0054] FIGS. 1F, 1G, and 1H disclose additional preferred
embodiment of the dual-purpose mobile communication device of the
present invention (10 F, 10G and 10H) in the form of head
coverings, wherein each mobile communication device is used to
confirm the identity of the wearer. The mobile communication device
10F of FIG. 1F is in the form of a baseball cap, whereas FIGS. 1G
and 1H disclose alternative head-covering designs. In each, a
microphone (15F, 15G, and 15H) is positioned as an audio pickup in
the bill of the head covering, which picks up words spoken by the
wearer. Two sweep fingerprint sensors (14F, 14G, and 14H) are
positioned on the underside of each bill, one sensor for each hand.
As a result of the symmetry of the head covering, there are audio
receivers for each ear, enabling the wearer to use the mobile
communication device to hear music in each ear, which is
optional.
[0055] FIG. 1I discloses another preferred embodiments of the
dual-purpose mobile communication device of the present invention
10I, the mobile communication device being a security head
covering. The mobile communication device is a head-covering hoodie
10I, such that adults can communicate with and locate teenagers,
and also teenagers can communicate with each other via closed
circuit or "walkie-talkie" or conventional cell phone lines on
outdoor excursions. A cell phone or a computer-based wireless
communications device can be carried in a pocket and wired to the
audio receivers and microphone through the garments. Each garment
includes an audio receiver 12I, a microphone 15I, and a processor
16I, and each mobile communication device includes a fingerprint
sensor 14I. A global-positioning sensor 19I is used to locate the
wearer, and the garment includes a power source 18I. The symmetry
of the garment enables audio receivers for each ear, so that the
wearer can use the mobile communication device 10I to listen to
music.
[0056] Having a wearable computer on the face or as a head covering
has much utility for people in outdoor applications--particularly,
with the GPS sensor, and even without the biosensor. For example, a
scout leader can maintain two-way communications continually with a
group of scouts on an outdoor, overnight field trip. The scout
leader equips each of the individual scouts with headsets with the
GPS sensor. In the event that one or more scouts get lost, hurt, or
otherwise separated from the main unit, the headset is an
invaluable device for locating the separated scout or scouts.
[0057] FIG. 1J discloses yet another preferred embodiment of the
dual-purpose mobile communication device of the present invention
10J, the mobile communication device embedded in a football-helmet.
Each helmet includes an audio receiver 12J, a microphone 15J, and a
processor 16J, and each mobile communication device 10J includes a
fingerprint sensor 14J. Each helmet includes a GPS sensor 19J and a
power source 18J. The fingerprint sensor enables secure
communications between the coaches and the quarterback, since a
match is required before the audio signals are received by the
quarterback. A sweep fingerprint sensor is shown.
[0058] FIG. 1K discloses yet another preferred embodiment of the
dual-purpose mobile communication device of the present invention
10K, the mobile communication device 10K being embedded in a
civilian hardhat, the type typically used in building construction.
Each helmet includes an audio receiver 12K, a microphone 15K, and a
processor 16K, and each mobile communication device 10K includes a
fingerprint sensor 14K, a sweep fingerprint sensor being preferred.
Again, dual audio receivers are preferred.
[0059] FIG. 2 is a schematic depicting the mobile communication
device of FIG. 1L being used for financial access, data access, or
physical access by spoken communications with the designated
gatekeepers. The dual-purpose communication device of the present
invention enables biometric authentication of a user, said
dual-purpose communication device being digitally connected to a
communications system. The dual-purpose communication device can be
a headset, a head covering, or an eye-covering. A processor is
positioned with the communication device, and is in electrical
communication with the fingerprint sensor in the communication
device. A short-distance wireless communication device that is
compatible with the processor positioned in the dual-purpose
communication device of the present invention. The short-distance
wireless communication device enables the retrieval of fingerprint
data from a processor within the dual-purpose communication device.
The biometric authentication is determined by another processor,
said other processor being external to said dual-purpose
communication device and is based at least in part upon a
comparison of the sensed fingerprint data and reference fingerprint
data of at least one authorized user. If the print in the
communication device matches a reference print, eventually
authentication will need to be confirmed with reference prints in
the headset, cell phone, or master computer before authentication
can be confirmed.
[0060] FIG. 3A discloses a yet still another preferred embodiment
of the mobile communication device of the present invention, the
mobile communication device 10B, the mobile communication device
10B being in a short-distance wireless communication with a flip
phone 20A. The flip phone 20A includes a data entry keypad 28A and
a display screen 24A. FIG. 3B discloses another preferred
embodiment of the present invention deploying a mobile
communication device 10E, the mobile communication device 10E being
deployed as a headset for use with a pda 20B. The pda 20B includes
a data entry keypad 28B and a display screen 24B. Short-distance
wireless communication technologies can be used to transmit data
from the mobile communication device to the cell phone. The
wireless communicating based on these communication technologies
can establish the cordless communication between devices and
terminals, thereby simplifying the device connection work and, at
the same time, enhancing convenience because it is substantially
unnecessary to select installation spaces of the cordlessly
connected devices. However, wired connections can also be
deployed.
[0061] FIG. 4A discloses the mobile communication device of the
present invention as pair of sunglasses, the mobile communication
device having Bluetooth.RTM. compatibility with various
conventional devices (a wrist screen, an IPOD.RTM., a laptop
computer, a handheld computer, a cell phone, a personal computer,
and a home entertainment center), the mobile communication device
including a biosensor for identity authentication, an audio
transmitter in the visor, either one or two audio receivers near
the ears, preferably enabling plug-in connection with the ear
canal(s), and a processor in the underside of the visor. By having
the identity authentication in the headset, conventional electronic
hardware can provide biometric security. With the exception of the
home entertainment center, these connections can also be hard-wired
to the mobile communication device of the present invention. Hence,
the mobile communication device of the present invention can also
be used to access these devices, providing fingerprint security.
FIG. 4B discloses a preferred embodiment using a cell phone that is
compatible with a plurality of different mobile communication
devices of the present invention, each mobile communication device
being a headset and being used by the same or different users, and
each mobile communication device providing biometric authentication
through the headset.
[0062] FIG. 5 discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for a registration process for the mobile
communication device of the present invention of either FIG. 1A or
1B, the pertinent data being submitted manually by the Applicant.
Initially, a person authorized to use the terminal is registered
through a registration process. Reference biometric prints are
captured during the registration, the prints being voice prints,
hand prints (index fingerprint, thumbprints, and palm prints for
each hand), and ear prints. The ear print can be a shape of the ear
lobe or pinna, a thermal image of the ear pinna, a vein pattern of
the ear pinna, the shape of the ear canal, or some other biometric
measurement associated with the ear. Then, subsequently, when the
person tries to either transmit or receive signals through the
terminal, a sensor in the terminal captures a biometric of the
voice, hand, or ear, and compares such reading against the
reference prints that are authorized to use the terminal. If and
only if the prints match, use of the terminal is enabled. If the
prints do not match, the terminal is disabled and no signals can be
received or transmitted through said terminal. The issuing
authority may be a corporation, a bank, a hospital, or a
head-of-household. Preferably, the issuing authority will need to
approve the user being added to the system.
[0063] FIG. 6 discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagrams for an identity confirmation method using the mobile
communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B.
[0064] FIG. 7A discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram of a method for wire transferring funds using the
mobile communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B. The wire
transfer is made to an escrow account, which is subsequently
transferred to the account of the payee, the escrow account keeping
the account number of the payee for purposes of privacy and account
security. FIG. 7B discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for using the mobile communication device of either
FIG. 1A or 1B for currency conversion.
[0065] FIG. 8 discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for a payment processing system using the mobile
communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B for payment processing
at a checkout terminal at a point-of-sale transaction.
[0066] FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C disclose a shell for a cap-terminal of
the present invention, the shell, being compatible with multiple
conventional head coverings, the shell including an audio
transmitter and an audio receiver, a processor, and preferably a
fingerprint sensor. The audio receiver is either for one ear or
both ears, two ear reception being needed for listening to music.
The audio receiver either covers the ears or is in close enough
proximity to the ears that ear plugs are not needed.
[0067] FIG. 10A discloses a conventional pair of glasses. FIG. 10B
discloses a preferred embodiment of the processor/headset unit of
the present invention that is compatible with an earpiece of the
glasses of FIG. 10A, the headset unit including an audio
transmitter and an audio receiver and a fingerprint sensor. FIG.
10C discloses another preferred embodiment of a processor/headset
of the present invention that is worn above the lenses of the
glasses, the headset unit being attachable above the lenses of the
glasses, the headset unit including an audio transmitter and an
audio receiver, and a fingerprint sensor.
[0068] FIG. 11A discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for using the mobile communication device of either
FIG. 1A or 1B to access a garage door from inside a vehicle, the
system being bimodal and using fingerprint and voiceprint matching,
said prints being submitted during a registration process similar
to one shown in FIG. 5, the user speaking "garage door" which are
recognizable words to the system which prompts the system to
request the user to submit a voiceprint using the terminal and a
fingerprint using the terminal to confirm user identity before
completing the processing of the request for opening the garage
door.
[0069] FIG. 11B discloses a preferred embodiment of a simplified
logic diagram for using the mobile communication device of either
FIG. 1A or 1B to access a car door from outside the vehicle, the
system being bimodal and using fingerprint and voiceprint matching,
said prints being submitted during a registration process similar
to one shown in FIG. 5, the user speaking "car door" which are
recognizable words to the system which prompts the system to
request the user to submit a voiceprint using the terminal and a
fingerprint using the terminal to confirm user identity before
completing the processing of the request for opening the car
door.
[0070] FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C disclose three alternative preferred
embodiments of a simplified version of dual-purpose mobile
communication device being of the present invention (10Q, 10R, and
10S) for use an identification device. FIG. 12A discloses an
eye-covering embodiment, FIG. 12B discloses an ID badge embodiment,
and FIG. 12C discloses a head covering embodiment. Each embodiment
includes a fingerprint sensor (14Q 14R, and 14S) and a processor
(16Q, 16R, and 16S), the identification device (10Q, 10R, and 10S)
being useful for authenticating the identity of the wearer for
subsequent purposes of financial access, data access, or physical
access. The processor (16Q, 16R, and 16S) is in electrical
communication with the fingerprint sensor (14Q, 14R, and 14S) and
compares captured fingerprint data with reference fingerprint data
of at least one authorized user to determine if access is
authorized.
[0071] FIG. 13A discloses a simplified schematic for using the
mobile communication device of either FIG. 1A or 1B to gain access
at an ATM. The on-site prepaid transaction uses the mobile headset
terminal of either FIG. 1A or 1B which includes an RFID. The user
at the ATM selects "Enter Remote Fingerprint" and an interrogator
at the ATM receives the fingerprint data from the headset. Once the
user fingerprint matches the reference fingerprint in the headset,
the user fingerprint is compared against an ATM reference
fingerprint. Similarly, FIG. 13B discloses a simplified schematic
for using the mobile communication device of FIG. 1B to gain access
to a PC or secure data within the PC. The user at the PC selects
"Enter Remote Fingerprint" and an interrogator at the PC receives
the fingerprint data from the headset. Initially, the user's
fingerprint is compared against a headset reference fingerprint. If
there is a match, then the user's fingerprint is compared against a
system or network reference fingerprint template.
[0072] FIG. 14A discloses the identifier device of the present
invention as a head covering, an ID badge, or eyeglasses in direct
wireless communication with the handset of a cell phone for
purposes of identifying the user or wearer of such device.
[0073] FIG. 14B discloses the identifier device of the present
invention as a head covering or eyeglasses in direct wireless
communication with the headset, the headset then being in direct
wireless communication with a handset of a cell phone for purposes
of identifying the user or wearer of such device.
[0074] FIG. 15A discloses a simplified schematic of another
preferred embodiment of the mobile communication device of the
present invention in a head covering or glasses including a
biometric sensor, a processor, a two-way RFID tag, a
global-positioning sensor, and an interrogator. FIG. 15B discloses
a simplified schematic of the preferred embodiment of the mobile
communication device of the present invention in a wearable
computer including an audio transmitter, an audio receiver, a
biometric sensor, a processor, a two-way RFID tag, a
global-positioning sensor, and an interrogator.
[0075] FIG. 15B is a block diagram of depicting the terminal
exemplary embodiments of terminal and headsets for using the
invention. Specifically, the terminal for communicating with a
central computer may comprise processing circuitry, which may
include a processor for controlling the operation of the terminal
and other associated processing circuitry. The processing circuitry
will incorporate audio processing circuits such as audio filters
and correlation circuitry associated with speech recognition. In
accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the terminal
is used in a voice-driven system, which uses speech recognition
technology for communication. The headset provides hands-free voice
communication between the wearer and the terminal. FIG. 15B
illustrates a simple block diagram of one exemplary embodiment of
the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 15B incorporates a
headset, which is configured to communicate in one aspect on either
a wired link or a wireless link with a portable terminal.
Alternatively, portable terminal might be a stand-alone system or
device that merely communicates with a user through the headset. In
still another alternative embodiment, the headset might communicate
directly on link to a central computer. FIG. 15C depicts a
simplified logic diagram for speech recognition using the mobile
communication device of FIG. 1A or 1B, the user speaking commands
to the microphone that are used for purposes of completing a phone
call, for example.
[0076] Multispectral Imaging, Inc. is a leader in the design and
development of infrared imaging systems, today announced an
exclusive worldwide license with Oak Ridge National Laboratory
(ORNL) for its patents involving the use of microcantilever sensors
for infrared imaging. The company is commercializing unique and
proprietary technology that has the potential for radical
improvements in both price and performance of uncooled infrared
focal plane arrays.
[0077] Speaker authentication is also starting to move into call
centers. As with speech recognition, call-center deployments have
the potential for being a huge market. Call centers are under
increasing pressure to automate as a way of reducing cost,
attenuating the impact (and cost) of agent turnover, and providing
services 24/7. Usually speaker authentication is partnered with
speech recognition for customer-facing and partner-facing
applications. Most often, speaker authentication is added to
existing speech-recognition applications but it is an increasingly
popular feature of new deployments as well.
[0078] Some call-center applications extend the definition of
speaker authentication. For most applications, speaker
authentication is synonymous with speaker verification: a
one-to-one comparison of the voiceprint of the caller with the
system's stored voiceprint for the identity the caller is claiming
to have. In the call-center arena there are many applications where
more than one person is authorized to access information or engage
in secured activities (e.g., joint accounts). When those people
share a password, which may occur when the password is an account
number, the system needs to compare the caller's voiceprint with
stored voiceprints for all of the authorized individuals. When the
system only needs to determine whether the speaker belongs to the
group of authorized speakers the process is called speaker
classification. When the identity of the group member needs to be
determined the process is called speaker identification. In either
case it entails one-to-many matching.
[0079] A voice biometric is a numerical model of the sound, pattern
and rhythm of an individual's voice. A voice biometric is as unique
to an individual as a finger or palm print. The voice print is
established in a registration session or over a period of time as
the user continually uses the device.
[0080] FIG. 16A discloses a simplified block diagram for using
either the mobile communication device headset of FIG. 1A or 1B
with a personal terminal-based security system. The system can be
used for physical access to home or office, as a garage door
opener, a car door opener, as a universal handheld remote, for
mobile communication device, Internet, and email access and
purchases, in addition to making phone calls.
[0081] FIG. 16B discloses a simplified block diagram for using
either the mobile communication device of FIG. 1A or 1B with a
corporate terminal-based security system. The system can be used
for physical access to home or office, Internet, and email access,
for business expenses, currency conversion, managing a stock
portfolio, and for making purchases, in addition to making phone
calls.
[0082] FIG. 16C discloses a simplified block diagram for using
either the mobile communication device of FIG. 1A or 1B with a
resort or luxury cruise terminal-based security system. The system
can be used for assigning guests physical access to rooms and
restricted areas, gaming activity, entertainment expenses, and for
Internet, and email communications, in addition to making phone
calls.
[0083] FIG. 16D discloses a simplified block diagram for using
either the mobile communication device of FIG. 1A or 1B with a
hospital terminal-based security system. The system can be used for
physical access to the hospital and other grounds, for phone,
Internet, and email access, and for accessing and updating of
patient records.
[0084] FIG. 16E discloses a simplified block diagram for using
either the mobile communication device of FIG. 1A or 1B with a law
enforcement terminal-based processing system. The system can be
used for headquarters and vehicle access, time and attendance,
officer and vehicle tracking, and for phone, Internet, and email
communications.
[0085] The headset incorporates a microphone configured for
capturing audio signals. The headset incorporates processing
circuitry, which is configured for analyzing digitized
representations of audio signals captured by the microphone. The
processing circuitry will include suitable digitization circuitry
for providing appropriate representations of the audio signals for
further processing. In accordance with another aspect of the
present invention, the processing circuitry includes speech
detection circuitry, which is configured to analyze the sampled
representations of the audio signals to detect speech of the user.
The processing circuitry includes circuitry, or interfaces with
circuitry, which is configured for transmission of the digitized or
sampled representations to a device, such as portable terminal when
speech is detected (see for example U.S. Publication No.
20050070337 (Byford et al.) which discloses a wireless headset for
use in a speech recognition environment.)
[0086] Short-distance wireless communication technologies are used
to transmit data from a sensor to a headset, from a headset to a
cellphone, from a headset to computer, or from an identification
device to a computer. The wireless communicating based on these
communication technologies can establish the cordless communication
between devices and terminals, thereby simplifying the device
connection work and, at the same time, enhancing convenience
because it is substantially unnecessary to select installation
spaces of the cordlessly connected devices.
[0087] The short-distance wireless communication may be used, for
example, not only for the data transfer between a computer main
frame and its peripheral devices, but also for the data exchange
between mobile information devices, and data and audio transmission
between a telephone main body, a mobile music player, and a
headset, and between a main phone and its cordless headset.
BLuetooth.TM. is the short-distance wireless communication of
choice. However, it is to be expressly understood that the metes
and bounds of this invention are not to be so limited and that
other short-distance wireless communication technologies which
include DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) XML (extensible Markup
Language), a wireless LAN standardized by IEEE802.11a/b/g/h or the
like, UWB (Ultra Wide Band), HAVi.TM., ZigBee.TM., NFC, infrared
communication, can also be used as short-distance wireless
communication schemes.
[0088] Throughout there are various patents and patent applications
and provisional applications referenced by patent number and
inventor. The disclosures of these patents in their entireties are
hereby incorporated by reference into this specification in order
to more fully describe the state-of-the-art.
[0089] It is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and
variations of the mobile computer terminal of the present invention
will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the
disclosure herein. It is intended that the metes and bounds of the
present invention be determined by the appended claims rather than
by the language of the above specification, and that all such
alternatives, modifications, and variations which form a conjointly
cooperative equivalent are intended to be included within the
spirit and scope of these claims.
* * * * *