U.S. patent application number 12/467959 was filed with the patent office on 2010-06-03 for universal docking system.
Invention is credited to Randall Bird, Kevin Cote, Rodney Farley, Joseph Renton.
Application Number | 20100138581 12/467959 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41796113 |
Filed Date | 2010-06-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100138581 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bird; Randall ; et
al. |
June 3, 2010 |
Universal Docking System
Abstract
A docking system is presented for an ecosystem where multiple
media players provide functionality according to the location of
corresponding docking stations. The docking stations have locally
encoded media player persona information that depends on the
location where the docking station is installed. Once a media
player is docked with the docking station, the media player obtains
the persona information and configures itself to provide the
functionality required for the location. The media player can
restrict content as necessary based on the obtained persona
information. Other features also can be incorporated within the
docking station and media player assemblies to provide for proper
airflow, isolation from vibration, or installation by unskilled
individuals. A preferred ecosystem employing the disclosed
techniques includes an aircraft in-flight entertainment system.
Inventors: |
Bird; Randall; (Newport
Beach, CA) ; Cote; Kevin; (Yorba Linda, CA) ;
Farley; Rodney; (Yorba Linda, CA) ; Renton;
Joseph; (Orange, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FISH & ASSOCIATES, PC;ROBERT D. FISH
2603 Main Street, Suite 1000
Irvine
CA
92614-6232
US
|
Family ID: |
41796113 |
Appl. No.: |
12/467959 |
Filed: |
May 18, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61119132 |
Dec 2, 2008 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
710/303 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04H 20/62 20130101;
B60R 2011/0096 20130101; B60R 2011/0078 20130101; H04L 65/60
20130101; B60R 2011/0003 20130101; B60R 2011/0294 20130101; G06F
13/4081 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
710/303 |
International
Class: |
G06F 13/00 20060101
G06F013/00 |
Claims
1. A universal docking system, comprising: a plurality of media
player docking stations each configured to receive any one media
player from a plurality of swappable media players; a structure
having an interior portion in which the docking stations are
installed at a plurality of docking station locations, where at
least some of the docking stations are locally encoded with media
player persona information that depends on the docking stations'
locations; and wherein the at least some of the docking stations
are configured to transfer the persona information to installed
media players, where the persona information instructs the
installed media players of their functional role at a receiving
docking station's location.
2. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the plurality
of media players are fungible with respect to their functional
roles.
3. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the interior
portion of the structure comprises a cabin of a vehicle.
4. The universal docking system of claim 3, wherein the vehicle
comprises an aircraft.
5. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the persona
information is used to restrict content from being played on docked
media players at a receiving docking station's location.
6. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the plurality
of docking stations are configured to receive the one media player
via guiding surfaces of the plurality of docking stations and
guiding surfaces of the one media player.
7. The universal docking system of claim 6, wherein the guiding
surfaces of the one media player comprise beveled surfaces that
approximately complement beveled guiding surfaces of the plurality
of docking stations.
8. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the plurality
of docking stations are configured to mate with the one media
player via a cable-less connector.
9. The universal docking system of claim 8, wherein the cable-less
connector is configured to float within a constrained region.
10. The universal docking system of claim 9, wherein the plurality
of docking stations provide the constrained region.
11. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the plurality
of docking stations are configured to retain the one media player
under an impact of at least 15 Gs.
12. The universal docking system of claim 11, wherein the plurality
of docking stations each comprise a mechanical lock that couples to
a housing of the one media player and is capable of holding the
media player local to the docking stations after the impact.
13. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the plurality
of docking stations each comprise a first ducting surface that is
configured to form a plenum with a second ducting surface of the
one media player where the plenum provides a passive airflow to
cool the one media player when only one surface of the one media
player is exposed.
14. The universal docking system of claim 13, wherein the plenum is
configured to vent hot air via a vent through the exposed
surface.
15. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the at least
some of the docking stations comprise a swappable media player
persona module storing the persona information in a computer
readable memory.
16. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the at least
some of the docking stations are physically encoded with the
persona information.
17. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the plurality
of docking stations are configured to vibrationally isolate
surfaces of the one media player from adjacent surfaces of the
docking stations.
18. The universal docking system of claim 1, wherein the plurality
of docking stations are configured to receive and to lock the one
media player in a docked position without requiring use of a tool
to dock and to lock the one media player.
19. The universal docking system of claim 18, wherein the docking
stations comprise a media player lock configured to releasably lock
the one media player in the installed position, and configured to
release the one media player through the use a key.
20. The universal docking system of claim 19, wherein the key
comprises a non-mechanical key selected from the group consisting
of a magnetic key, an RFID key, and a wireless protocol key.
21. A universal docking system, comprising: a plurality of media
player docking stations each configured to receive any one media
player from a plurality of swappable media players; a structure
having an interior portion in which the docking stations are
installed at a plurality of docking station locations; and wherein
at least some of the docking stations comprise a first ducting
surface configured to form a plenum with a second ducting surface
of the one media player where the plenum provides a passive airflow
to cool the one media player when only one surface of the one media
player is exposed.
22. A universal docking system, comprising: a plurality of media
player docking stations each configured to receive any one media
player from a plurality of swappable media players; a structure
having an interior portion in which the docking stations are
installed at a plurality of docking station locations; and wherein
at least some of the docking stations are configured to mate with
the one media player via a cable-less connector adapted to float
within a constrained region provided by at least one of the one
media player and a receiving docking station.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S.
provisional application having Ser. No. 61/119,132 filed on Dec. 2,
2008. This and all other extrinsic materials discussed herein are
incorporated by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or
use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or
contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the
definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition
of that term in the reference does not apply.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The field of the invention is docking technologies for
electronic devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Various entertainment providing systems represent quite
complex ecosystems of electronic devices, especially those employed
in aircraft. For example, in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems can
comprise hundreds of media players connected to content
distribution servers, system managers, or even via one or more
on-board networks. Known IFE networks require installed media
players to coordinate their functionality with a central head unit
IFE server. Unfortunately media players are often bolted or
otherwise rigidly attached to an aircraft at installation locations
within an aircraft including overhead locations, seatbacks,
armrests, bulkheads, or other locations. The media players are
installed at the locations in a manner that requires a skilled
technician to install or to remove the media players. For example,
should a media player fail during a flight, the media player can
not be replaced until the flight lands and a trained service person
replaces the player. Furthermore, aircraft also employ other
dedicated displays located throughout the aircraft; possibly
providing user interfaces for a crew compartment, communication
interfaces, or other types of functions. Ideally, an aircraft
ecosystem should support swappable elements that would essentially
allow media players to also be configured to operate as a display
or interface to reduce the number of specialized devices in an IFE
system, or other control system, and to ease maintenance by
allowing untrained individuals such as flight attendants to replace
faulty displays or players.
[0004] In a system where media players are located around a cabin
of an aircraft, it has yet to be appreciated that media players can
take on functional roles or responsibilities based on where the
media player is installed. For example, a media player could be
installed in a crew compartment within an aircraft to provide an
interface to control a kitchen area, or to control a public address
system. The same type of media player, or even the exact same media
player, could be installed in a seatback to provide entertainment
to passengers. When installed in a seatback in an exit row, the
media player could be configured to present additional instructions
or content pertaining to the responsibilities of helping evacuate
an aircraft. Alternatively, a media player installed in an overhead
position might be configured to present a navigation map during a
flight. In essence a single type (e.g., a make, model, etc.) of a
media player could be used in an ecosystem where one player from a
first location could be swapped with another player at a different
location. Players should adopt their roles or responsibilities
based on at least their specific location, preferably without
requiring communication with a head unit, or other remote device or
server. Unfortunately, the airline industry has largely failed to
develop systems, methods, or configurations for IFE systems to
allow a media player to operate dynamically in such a varied
ecosystem.
[0005] Some effort has been directed to easing maintenance of
installing media players for use as an entertainment device. For
example, U.S. patent application publication 2008/0040756 to
Perlman et al. titled "User Interface Device and Method for
Presenting Viewing Content" (February 2008) discusses a system
where individual media players can be removed from their mounting
systems; in seatbacks or armrests for example. However, Perlman
fails to recognize that players can take on different roles or
responsibilities based on a location on where a media player is
installed.
[0006] Some additional effort has been put forth toward allowing a
docking station and a docked electronic device to cooperate to
improve functionality of the combined assembly. For example, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,826,043 to Smith et al. titled "Docking Station with
Serially Accessed Memory that is Powered by a Portable Computer for
Identifying the Docking Station" (October 1998) discloses a laptop
computer docking station can store configuration information
relating to the configuration of the docking station. Once the
configuration information is communicated to a docked laptop, the
laptop can use the information to allocate resources of the docking
station for its own use. However, Smith, as well as others, merely
contemplates a one-to-one relationship between docking stations and
devices as opposed to a dynamic ecosystem, for example an aircraft
IFE ecosystem, having locations at which a device can be deployed,
and where the locations require a different functional role.
[0007] Another example includes U.S. Pat. No. 6,993,615 to Falcon
titled "Portable Computing Device-Integrated Appliance" (January
2006). Falcon contemplates that a computing device can determine a
type of appliance to which it is connected, and can provide a user
interface for the appliance. Although Falcon discusses that device
could be docked with different appliances, Falcon also fails to
appreciate that an ecosystem could have different location
dependent functional roles, and fails to appreciate that such an
environment has a many-to-many relationship among docking stations
and devices.
[0008] Yet another example includes U.S. patent application
publication 2009/0091422 to Minoo et al. titled "Device
Identification via Serial Communication Link" (April 2009). Minoo
discusses that a device can discover and identify an accessory
connected to the device via a dock. Upon discovery the device can
determine whether preferences or functionalities should be set or
enabled. As with the previous examples, Minoo also fails to
appreciate that an ecosystem can have location dependent functional
roles and where any one of a set of media players can fulfill the
functional roles. Although Minoo, Flacon, and Smith provide
suitable solutions for their intended purposes, they all fail to
recognize issues associated with an ecosystem of devices that work
together to form a coherent, functional ecosystem, especially as in
an IFE system of an aircraft where any media player could be
installed at any location, and where there can be a many-to-many
relationship among players and docking station with respect to the
functional roles required at each location.
[0009] Interestingly, it has yet to be appreciated that media
players, or other types of devices, can have location dependent
functionality within a complex ecosystem where device persona
information can be stored within a docking station. For example,
all media players could store the exact same content (e.g.,
applications, video data, audio data, games, passenger surveys,
etc.). Docking stations can be encoded with media player persona
information that can instruct a media player docked with the
docking station of the persona that the media player should have at
that specific location. Once a docked media player obtains the
persona information, the player can operation according to the
functional requirements at the location. Such an approach provides
for nearly zero configurations when swapping, replacing, moving, or
otherwise shifting media players from one location to another.
[0010] Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set
forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their
endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include
only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values
should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the
context indicates the contrary.
[0011] Thus, there is still a need for docking systems that provide
an indication to an electronic device of its roles or
responsibilities.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and
methods in which media players can be installed in a one of a
number of different docking stations located around a structure to
provide a solid, coherent operating ecosystem; an in-flight
entertain (IFE) system for example. Preferably docking stations are
encoded with information dependent on the docking station's
location within the structure, where the information can be used to
instruct a media player to take on a functional role or persona at
the location. The docking station can be encoded with the media
player persona information in various ways including storing the
information in a computer readable media, physically encoding the
information, optically encoding the information, or using other
forms of encoding. Once a media player is installed or docked with
a docking station, the docked media player can obtain the persona
information from the docking station, and use the information to
configure the player with one or more functional roles required for
the location. In a preferred embodiment, media players are
swappable with each other, and are fungible with respect to the
various functional roles to allow any one media player to replace
another media player with nearly zero user configuration, or
without requiring media players to swap or to update content. For
example, an installed media player docked within a docking station
in a crew cabin of an aircraft might display content that controls
a public address system, while the same physical media player
docked in a seatback docking station would restrict access to the
PA controls and only allow entertainment content to be played
(e.g., video, audio, broadcasts, navigation maps, games, etc.).
[0013] Although a preferred embodiment of the disclosed universal
docking system forms an IFE ecosystem in a cabin of an aircraft,
the inventive subject matter can also be applied to other
structures beyond aircraft including other vehicles (e.g., cars
vans, buses, boats, etc.), buildings, off shore platforms, public
address systems, or other ecosystems requiring different functional
roles at various locations in the environments.
[0014] Preferred docking stations are configured to receive a media
player in a manner where unskilled individuals can install or
remove the media player with ease, and preferably without use of a
tool. In a preferred embodiment, the docking stations are
configured with one or more guiding surfaces that compliment one or
more guiding surfaces of the media player. As an individual
installs a media player, the cooperation of the guiding surfaces
guide the media player into a proper fit. Contemplated guiding
surfaces preferably include one or more beveled surfaces that can
also act as ducting surfaces. The ducting surfaces of the docking
stations or the media player can provide for a passive cooling
airflow to cool a docked media player.
[0015] In some embodiments, the media players can mate with the
docking station via a floating connector to aid in vibrationally
isolating the surfaces of the media player from the surfaces of the
docking station to reduce stresses on the connector in a
vibrationally harsh environment as typically found in an aircraft.
In a preferred embodiment, the connectors lack an intervening cable
to reduce requirements for having a skilled technician install or
remove the player. Additionally, the connection can float within a
constrained region within the docking station or the media player
to provide some play within the assembly to allow some vibration
without causing damage to the devices.
[0016] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the
inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the
following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with
the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent
like components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic of a universal docking system where
docking stations are deployed at various locations within a
structure (e.g., an interior of an aircraft).
[0018] FIG. 2 is a schematic of a possible embodiment of a docking
station.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic of a possible persona module encoded
with media player persona information.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic of a media player that can be docked
with a docking station.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an embodiment where a media
player is about to be installed within a docking station, and where
the player and docking station have guiding surfaces.
[0022] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment where a
plenum is formed by the surfaces of a docking station and a media
player, where the plenum provides a passive cooling airflow.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] The following description is provided within the context of
an ecosystem operating as an aircraft IFE system. The term
"ecosystem" is used to represent a system with multiple, distinct
elements that function together to provide an overarching, coherent
application. A preferred ecosystem includes an aircraft IFE system
where media players can be members of an on-board network. One
should appreciate that the inventive subject matter can be adapted
to other environments having multiple media players, or having
other electronic devices for that matter, that can be deployed at
locations that dictate a media player's functional roles. Other
contemplated environments having ecosystems include buildings with
information kiosks, building security systems, offices video
conferencing systems, vehicles with entertainment players and
navigation systems, multi-player gaming systems, or other
ecosystems.
[0024] IFE systems are extensively discussed elsewhere including
the following: [0025] a. U.S. patent application publication
2008/0040756 to Perlman et al. titled "User Interface Device and
Method for Presenting Viewing Content" (February 2008) [0026] b.
U.S. patent application publication 2006/0107295 to Margis et al.
titled "Portable Media Device and Method for Presenting Viewing
Content During Travel" (May 2006) [0027] c. U.S. Pat. No. 7,114,171
to Brady et al. titled "Method for Controlling an In-Flight
Entertainment System" (September 2006)
[0028] One suitable IEF ecosystem that can be easily adapted to
employ the inventive subject matter includes those designed,
developed, or sold by The IMS Company of Brea, Calif.
(http://www.imsco-us.com/).
[0029] The term "media player" is used to represent one of many
possible classes of electronic devices. Preferred media players
include devices specifically configured to present entertainment
content to one or more individuals, and configured to support
presenting both video and audio content. Although the inventive
subject matter is directed to media players, the inventive subject
matter can be applied to other classes of electronic devices
including general computing devices, portable telephony devices,
game consoles, or other types of electronic devices.
Overview
[0030] In FIG. 1, docking system 100 represents a universal docking
system of a plurality of media player docking stations 110, each
configured to receive any one media player from a plurality of
plurality swappable of media players 120. Docking stations 110 are
preferably installed as various docking station locations within an
interior portion of a structure 150, for example, a cabin of an
aircraft as shown.
[0031] Docking stations 110 are preferably fungible with respect to
receiving any one of media players 120. Such an approach provides
for removing one of media players 120 from a docking station 110 at
one location, compartment 155A for example, and docked with a
docking station 110 at another location, compartment 155C for
example. In this sense, media players 120 are swappable with each
other, or with spare media players 120, possibly stored within
structure 150.
[0032] In a preferred embodiment, each location within structure
150 has a different functional requirement for media players 120.
For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1 an aircraft having coach
compartment 155A requires media players 120 to display basic
entertainment content to passengers. Coach media players 120 can be
docked with docking stations 110 that are installed in seatbacks,
in armrests, in overhead positions, or at other locations about
coach compartment 155A. Media players 120 placed in first class
compartment 155B can be configured to offer first class passengers
the basic entertainment content as well as premium content only
available to the first class. Furthermore, media players 120 docked
with docking stations 110 installed in crew compartment 155C can be
configured to offer crew-based applications or content, or can
operate as an interface to the aircraft's control systems to
control the galley, PA system, or other aircraft features.
[0033] A functional role requirement can be conveyed from docking
station 110 to media player 120 via location dependent persona
information locally encoded in or on docking station 110 as
discussed in greater detail below. Once media player 120 is docked
with docking station 110, player 120 can obtain the persona
information and use the persona information to configure its
functional role for the location, or derived from content stored on
media player 120.
[0034] As used herein "content" is used euphemistically to
represent digital information stored on a computer readable medium
that can be conveyed to a user of media player 120. Content can be
passive where the information is merely played back to a user as in
a video file, audio file, or other presentation that does not
require the user's interaction. Alternatively, content can be
interactive where the user is required to interact with the player.
Examples of interactive content include applications running on the
player, user interfaces, video games, intercoms, or other
applications with which the user can interact.
[0035] Within a preferred embodiment, it is specifically
contemplated that media players 120 restricts access to content
based on the location where in the media player is docked. To
continue the previous example, a media player 120 installed in
compartments 155B and 155A would restrict access to crew related
applications that would be made available at compartment 155C. In
additional, a media player 120 installed in compartment 155A would
restrict access to premium content that would be available to first
class passengers in compartment 155B. It is also contemplated, that
a coach media player 120 would enable content that is capable of
providing a purchasing interface on the player through which a
coach passenger could purchase premium content, or other items or
services.
[0036] Media players 120 can restrict content based on various
granularities of location information. The content could be
restricted based on geographical location of structure 150 (e.g.,
country, state, province, postal code, area code, municipality,
address, etc.), compartment within the structure (e.g., room,
cabin, etc.), docking station installation location (e.g.,
overhead, seatback, armrest, wall, bulkhead, etc.), or even based
on a position within a compartment (e.g., seat assignment, overhead
positions, exit rows, etc.).
[0037] It is also contemplated that content can be restricted based
on the type or class of location where a docking station is
installed. For example, a media player 120 docked with a docking
station in an exit row of an aircraft can provide content relating
to aiding others through the exit, while the exact same media
player 120 installed in a non-exit row can restrict access to such
content. Example types of locations, possibly arranged as a
hierarchical class structure of metadata stored within media player
120, includes building, vehicle, marketplace, office space,
aircraft, wheeled ground vehicle, water vehicle, or others. In such
an approach, content restriction can be inherited from a parent
location type. For an IFE, the class structure might have the
hierarchical class, from broadest to most narrow: (aircraft, coach
compartment, exit row). Permissions for content can be inherited
based on the location class structure, for example, the parent
class location of "aircraft" permits access to some content on the
media player, class location "coach compartment" inherits
permissions from its "aircraft" parent and also grants permission
to additional content on the media player 120, and finally the
class location "exit row" inherits permissions from both of its
parents and provides for the media player 120 to play content
relevant to the exit row as well as any other non-restricted
content.
[0038] The previous example is presented within the context of an
aircraft IFE ecosystem. However, a location class structure can
also be applied to other types of ecosystems as well (e.g.,
building security, car entertainment and navigation system, PA
systems, etc.). A class structure can also have any number of
levels as opposed to having just three as in the example, or can
use any desirable meta-tags to describe each level. The meta-tags
can be used as a descriptor to describe the type or class of
location (e.g., "aircraft", "seatback", etc.), or can be a name of
the location (e.g., "Flight 0062", "Seat 32J", etc.). Furthermore,
the class structure does not necessarily have to be a taxonomic
hierarchy, but could also include other classification schemes.
Other acceptable classification schemes include an ontology, a
pre-define keyword associations possibly based on attribute value
pairs, a data-model having a many-to-many relationship among
meta-tags, or other known classifications.
Docking Systems Issues
[0039] Numerous issues arise within a universal docking ecosystem
of docking stations 110 capable of mating with a plurality of media
players 120, especially in an aircraft IFE system. In such
ecosystems, docking stations 110 and media players 120 should be
robust to withstand various stresses encountered while in use.
Docking stations 110 or media players 120 are preferably capable of
handling the following issues, each discussed in greater detail
below.
[0040] Docking system 100 preferably can withstand vibrations.
Vibration stresses can cause a docked media player 120 to shake
apart from it docking station 1 10. Traditional mounting systems
rigidly attach a media player to a mounting bracket via heavy bolts
or other means in an attempt reduce the risk of damage caused by
media player 120 shaking against its mounting system. However, in
an ecosystem where media players 120 can be swapped easily among
different docking station 110 such traditional approaches are
anathema to the desired goals. Media players 120 preferably dock
with docking stations 110 in a manner that withstands the
vibrations while also supporting easy removal.
[0041] Docking system 100 preferably allows untrained individuals
to remove, replace, swap, or otherwise switch out media player 120
with others of media players 120 or even spare units. In
traditional IFE systems, media players connect to an IFE system
network directly via a cable attachment. When a media player
requires replacement, the media player can only be replaced by a
service technician due to cabling issues and regulations when an
aircraft is on the ground. Such approaches are undesirable in the
contemplated docking system 100 where media players 120 can be
easily swapped with a spare unit during a flight. Furthermore, the
replacement operation should not require the use of tool. Still, a
key would be useful to ensure only authorized personnel can conduct
a replacement operation.
[0042] Docking system 100 preferably provides for cooling of media
player 120 while reducing a need for additional power to provide
cooling (e.g., via a fan, a blower, or other air mover), and
reducing the effective volume of the docking station-media player
assembly. Cooling of media player 120 can be a significant issue
especially when docking station 110 is in an enclosed space, a
seatback, for example, and substantially covers the surfaces of
media player 120. When installed in a seatback or other similar
location, media player 120 likely has only one exposed surface; the
display.
[0043] Docking system 100 preferably ensures that docking station
110 and docked media players 120 are robust against significant
impacts. This is especially true in a vehicular or building
ecosystems where impacts can cause debris to litter an emergency
escape route (e.g., due to an aircraft impact, or an earthquake).
In a preferred embodiment, docking station 110 securely attaches to
media player 120 where media player 120 remains attached to the
docking station 110 after an impact of at least 10 Gs. More
information regarding standards for impact can be found in DO-160,
Section 7, and Title 14 CFR 25.562.
[0044] The above requirements, as well as others, are preferably
balanced with each other to provide an effective docking system 100
as discussed below. One should note that the inventive subject
matter departs from known, traditional techniques, especially for
aircraft IFE ecosystems. Given the departure from the traditional
approaches, adjusting the various parameters for the disclosed
elements to achieve a balance that is both an acceptable solution
and meets required standards is well outside scope of mere design
choice. Rather, one skilled in the art would not look toward the
disclosed solutions as they are generally counter to established
protocols.
Docking Stations
[0045] In FIG. 2, docking station 210 represents a block diagram
schematic of a possible embodiment of a docking station, with which
media player 220 can dock. In a preferred embodiment, docking
station 210 provides connectivity to distal server 260, possibly a
head unit for an IFE system within an aircraft, over network 250.
Docking station 210 can also comprise components that enhance the
capabilities of media player 220 including processor 216, memory
212, persona module 214. Docking station 210 can connect to network
250 via connector 218 and can connect to media player 220 via
connector 215. Media player 220 can also have a connector 225 that
is complementary to connector 215. Docking station 210 is
preferably configured to transfer locally encoded persona
information to an installed or docked media player.
[0046] As used herein "docking station" is used to mean a device
that directly enhances a functional capability of a docked device
(e.g., a device that is mated with the docking station) as opposed
to merely providing connectivity. For example, docking station 210
could provide access to additional local resources, information,
memory, processing, or other capabilities that are directly
provided by docking station 210. A mounting system that merely
provides a connection to network 250 or power connection would not
be a docking station because the mounting system does not enhance
the functional capabilities of a mounted device. Additionally, a
connected cable is not a docking station because it merely provides
connectivity to a remote resource as pass-through connection and
does not provide enhanced capabilities. Examples of docking
stations 210 could include a station that provides speakers as
audio output, one or more displays as image output, one or more
control interfaces, or other enhancements.
[0047] Docking station 210 can be sized and dimensioned as
necessary to receive media player 220. Preferably a plurality of
docking stations 210 within the contemplated ecosystem can be
installed at any docking station location within the structure
where the ecosystem is deployed. Additionally, preferred docking
stations 210 have a common means, possibly a receptacle, for
receiving docked media players 220. In some embodiments, docking
stations 210 are fungible with respect to their locations, to
within limits of the functional requirements of a location.
However, it is also contemplated that docking stations 210 could
have different physical structures depending on their deployed
locations. For example, an arm rest docking station 210 in an
aircraft IFE system would likely mount in a different manner that
the same docking station 210 would mount in a crew cabin docking
station location in a bulk head, while both would still be able to
receive the same media player 220.
[0048] In some embodiments, server 260 operates as a computing
device that coordinates activities of an ecosystem. For example, in
an IFE ecosystem server 260 can operate as a head unit server that
monitors, manages, or otherwise maintains the health of the system.
Other operations that can be supported by server 260 include
conducting firmware updates on media players 220 or docking station
210, content updates on media players 220, intercom communications
among players, or other functions. In other embodiments, server 260
can simply be another remote media player 220 docked with a
different docking station 210.
[0049] Network 250 preferably comprises a packet switched network
of networked elements (e.g., switches, routers, hubs, other docking
stations, etc.). Network 250 can be wired or wireless and can
employ various protocols to exchange communications among the
networked elements. Suitable protocols that can be used alone or in
any combination include WiMAX, UWB, 802.11, RS-232, RS-485,
Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, CAN, Ethernet, TPv4, TPv6, UDP, TCP,
HTTP, or other networking or communication protocols.
[0050] Connector 218 can comprise any type of suitable docking
station port capable for providing connectivity to other devices,
including those that compose network 250. Example connectors 210
include wired connectors, or wireless connectors. Connector 218 can
include one or more physical ports capable of transferring data
(e.g., an RJ-45 jack) or providing power.
[0051] Connector 215 provides connectivity to media player 220 and
can also be wired or wireless as with connector 218. In a preferred
embodiment, connector 215 physically connects with connector 225 of
media player 220, and is a cable-less connector when there is no
intervening cable between player connector 225 and docking station
connector 215. Although connector 215 is shown as being distinct
from connector 218, one should note that connector 215 could be
implemented as connector 218 as well. In such can embodiment, the
combined connector serves the purposes of connecting to media
player 220, providing remote connectivity, or interfacing to the
electrical components of docking station 21 0.
[0052] In some embodiments docking station 210 comprises processor
216 capable of executing software instructions stored on computer
readable memory 212. In such embodiments, docking station 210 can
provide enhanced functionality or resources to media player 220. In
addition, docking station 210 can exchange management data, or
other information, with distal server 260 as necessary. For
example, distal server 260 could push a media player firmware
update to docking station 210 when media player 220 is not docked,
the firmware of media player 220 can be updated. The firmware
update could be stored in memory 212 until media player 220 is
docked and can be updated. Examples of memory 212 include RAM,
Flash, ROM, EEPROM, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, or
other forms of computer readable memory.
[0053] In a preferred embodiment docking station 210 is locally
encoded with media player persona information that dictates or
instructs media player 220 of its functional roles or
responsibilities while docked with docking station 210. "Locally
encoded" is used herein to mean that the persona information is
persistently stored local in, on, or within docking station 210 as
opposed to being stored remotely, say on distal server 260. Once
the persona information is locally encoded with docking station
210, the information remains with docking station 210 across power
cycles without requiring updates, unless updates are desired and
performed. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, server 260
could initially send persona information to docking station 210
when docking station 210 is installed at its location, or update
the persona information. Once received, docking station 210 can
store the personal information in memory 212, or within persona
module 214 as discussed in more detail below. One should note that
docking station 210 does not have locally encoded persona
information when docking station 210 temporality stores the persona
information in a communications buffer as the information is
forwarded from distal server 260 to media player 220 because the
persona information is not persistently stored. Locally encoding
persona information within docking station 210 reduces
communication overhead on network 250, and enhances the swappable
nature of media players 220 from one docking station location to
other locations with no user configuration steps required.
[0054] In preferred embodiment, persona information is location
dependent. Each of docking station 210 is installed at one of a
plurality of docking station locations (see FIG. 1) spread through
a structure where the ecosystem is deployed. The persona
information that is locally encoded in docking station 210 depends
on the docking station's location to ensure that docked media
player 220 provides the proper functionality at the specific
location, or restricts access to content stored on media player 220
based on the specific location.
Persona Module
[0055] In FIG. 3, persona module 300 represents a block diagram
schematic of a possible persona module storing encoded location
dependent media player persona information that can be deployed
within a docking station. Persona module 300 preferably carries the
media player persona information for a docking station's location
by comprising one or more encodings representing the media player
persona information.
[0056] In some embodiments, persona module 300 comprises computer
readable memory 310 that electronically stores the persona
information. The persona information can be written or can be read
via interface 320 that can connect to a bus of the docking station
or can possibly directly connect to a connector of a docked media
player. Interface 320 can also be a wired or wireless interface. In
such embodiment persona module 300 could comprise RAM, flash, hard
disk drive, solid state drive, or other forms of computer readable
memory. It is also contemplated that persona module 300 could be a
replaceable flash memory device including a memory stick, secure
digital card, multi-media card, USB thumb driver, or other flash
device.
[0057] In other embodiments, persona module 300 includes physical
encodings 330 that represent the persona information. For example,
persona module 300 could include a series of one or more physical
protrusions (e.g., molded plastics, pins, wires, etc.) or even
detents (e.g., holes, depressions, etc.). Physical encodings 330
could be arranged as a linear series, an array, or other
arrangement that can be read by a docked media player, where width,
length, size, presence, absence, depth or other physical
characteristics are used to encode the information. Furthermore, in
some embodiments, characteristics of physical encodings 330 could
be adjusted mechanically or electronically to update the persona
information. The arrangement of physical encodings 330 can carry
the location based persona information as a code or other
representation that can used by the media player to configure its
functionality for the location.
[0058] Other encoding schemes can also be employed to locally
encode the persona information with module 300 including optical
encodings (e.g., bar codes, OCR, etc.), magnetic encodings using
one or more magnetic elements, or RFID tags. Yet other encoding
schemes can include the use of one or more jumpers, a DIP switch,
selectively populated components on a PCB, or other PCB
configuration schemes.
[0059] In some embodiments, persona information can be encoded in
an encrypted format as opposed to encoding the persona information
in clear text format. The persona information can be encrypted
using any suitable encryption scheme including DES, 3DES, AES, RSA,
PGP, or other known or yet to be invented scheme. Once properly
authenticated, possibly by a key exchange or other protocol, a
media player can access the persona information.
[0060] In similar vein, persona module 300 could store additional
secure information in memory 310 that could also be encrypted,
where the secure information could be included in personal
information, or treated as separate information. In such
embodiments, the secure information can comprise various keys
including a key to unlock content (e.g., digital rights
management), a docking station's private cipher key, a key for
decrypting content stored on a media player, or other types of
keys. It is also contemplated that persona module 300 could comply
with one or more Federal Information Processing Standards including
AES FIP-197, or FIPS-140 or its variants.
[0061] It is specifically contemplated that persona module 300 is
swappable or otherwise replaceable to further enhance the
flexibility of the contemplated universal docking system. For
example, a docking station could be physically replaced at a
docking station location. Persona module 300 could be unplugged
from the old docking station, and plugged into the new docking
station to enable the new docking station to inform a docked media
player of its functional roles. It is also contemplated the persona
module 300 could lack a power connection while still being able to
transfer the persona information to a media player, possibly
through physical encodings 330 or even an RFID tag where a docked
media player has an RFID reader. Furthermore, one should note that
persona module 300 can lack an electrical or communications
connection to other to other components of the docking station,
while still being able to communicate with a docked media
player.
Media Player Persona Information
[0062] Persona information can be stored using any suitable digital
scheme. The persona information could be stored as a file in a file
system, a raw binary encoding, a GUID, an XML file, programmatic
instructions, or other encodings. The persona information simply
instructs a media player of which functional role it should take on
at a location. As discussed previously, preferably the persona
information depends on a docking station's location.
[0063] Actual persona information data encoded with a docking
station preferably represents location information of the docking
station, and is does not required to encode any content
configuration information. As previously discussed the location
information could identify the location by type, possibly through
location class structure, or by one or more named tags. Example
location information for an aircraft IFE system could include a
flight number, an aircraft tail number, a seat number, a docking
station location identifier, a cockpit, a crew rest area, a galley,
a passenger's name assigned to a seat, or other information that
could indicate the functional roles of a player for its installed
location, especially if the roles are different than merely playing
media for a passenger. Once a media player is docked and obtains
the location information, the media player can derive its
functional role based on the location information and based on the
player's locally stored content. In such an approach, functional
role of the docked media player can depend on static location
information that does not change (e.g., seat number, aircraft tail
number, vehicle identification number, building address etc.), or
dynamic location information that can change (e.g., flight number,
geographical position possibly determined through GPS or supplied
by a distal server, passenger name, etc.).
[0064] One acceptable method that a docked media player can
determine its function role from persona information is to use a
look up table. The table can be indexed by the location
information, where the look up table provides a persona
configuration based on the location information.
[0065] Although a preferred embodiment represents an aircraft IFE
ecosystem, one should appreciate that the persona information could
be applied to other ecosystem and could include other attributes
beyond location on which a media player's functional role depends.
Additional attributes include geographic location, weather
conditions, news events, state of the structure at moment in time,
current local time or universal time, or other attributes.
Media Players
[0066] In FIG. 4, media player 400 represents a block diagram
schematic of a possible media player that can be used within the
contemplated ecosystems. A preferred media player 400 includes
connector 425, persona reader 410, memory 420, processor 427, and
bus 450 providing a communication channel among the electrical
components of player 400. Also, a preferred media player 400
includes at least one of display 430 for presentation of image or
video content, audio 435 output for presentation of sound data, or
controls 445 to allow a user to interface with player 400. Controls
445 could include a mouse, keyboard, touch display, game
controller, remote, or other types of control I/O. Additionally, in
a preferred embodiment media player 400 comprises content 440
representing digital data or information that can presented to a
user (e.g., movies, music, customer surveys, games, etc.).
[0067] In a preferred embodiment, media players 400 are fungible
with respect to their location based functional roles. This can be
achieved by each of media players 400 storing all necessary content
440 required for all locations in the ecosystem. For example, in an
aircraft IFE ecosystem having hundreds of media players 400, each
would store the same content 440. Media players 400 installed in a
crew compartment of an aircraft would provide access to crew
related application or information, while media players 400
installed in seatbacks would provide passengers access to
entertainment data and would restrict access to the crew related
applications.
[0068] The fungibility of the media players 400 with respect to
their functional roles can also depend on the structure in which
the players 400 are installed. For example, media players 400 could
be fungible with respect to a type of structure (e.g., can be used
in a 747, 727, 737, etc.), or even across different types of
ecosystems (e.g., can be used in aircraft IFE system and in a car
navigation system). Of course, the larger the extent of fungibility
across ecosystems required in media player 400 likely increases the
amount of content 440 required to achieve the fungibility.
[0069] Processor 427 is preferably configured to execute software
instructions stored in computer readable memory 420 to provide
media player functionality. Once media player 400 obtains its
location based persona information, processor 472 can begin
executing the necessary software instructions to enable the media
player's functional roles at the location.
[0070] In a preferred embodiment, functional roles include at least
playing entertainment content for a user of media player 400.
However, the number of functional roles can vary greatly.
Contemplated functional roles include playing content, providing
interactive content (e.g., a game application), providing a user
interface into an application (e.g., command, control, management,
etc.) relevant to the ecosystem, intercommunication among other
players, or other functional roles. As discussed previously the
permitted or restricted functional roles are determined by the
location of media player 400 within the ecosystem.
[0071] Content 440 can be stored on any suitable computer readable
media, possibly even within memory 420. Suitable computer readable
media can include flash drives, memory cards, hard drives, solid
state drives, CDs, DVDs, Blu-Ray disks, or other types of media
that is known or yet to be invented. Preferably media storing
content 440 has a capacity of at least 100 Gigabytes, and more
preferably at least 1000 Gigabytes, and yet more preferably at
least 2000 Gigabytes. In this instance, and where other upper
limits are not expressly stated, the reader should infer a
reasonable upper limit. One example media that is suitable for use
in a media player 400 is the Nitro Series 1 Terabyte (e.g., 1024
Gigabyte) SSD available from pureSilicon Inc.
(http://www.puresi.com/) capable of providing content at over 200
Megabytes per second.
[0072] Media player 400 can include multiple, different types of
I/O in support of its functional roles. Display 430 can present
image data, audio 435 can include speakers or audio jacks to
provide audio output, and controls 445 can provide an interface to
media player 400 functionality. Controls 445 can include one or
more buttons, switches, knobs, joysticks, game controllers, or
other types of controls. It is specifically contemplated that
controls 445 could also include a touch sensitive display capable
of providing an interface to users via display 430.
[0073] Media player 400 preferably includes persona reader 410
configured to obtain persona information from a docking station.
Although persona reader 410 is illustrated as a distinct module,
one should appreciate that persona reader 410 could be implemented
as programmatic instructions stored in memory 420 and executed by
processor 427 to communicate over connector 425. In a preferred
embodiment persona reader 410 complements the means used to store
persona information in a docking station. Persona reader 410 can
comprise a wired or wireless interface, mechanical pins that
interface to physical encodings on the docking station, an optical
sensor to read optical encodings, a magnetic sensor, an RFID
reader, or other types of sensors.
[0074] Connector 425 provides one or more wired, or wireless, ports
capable for providing a communication connection with a docking
station. In a preferred embodiment connector 425 mates with a
complementary connector on the docking station without the use of a
cable. A cable-less connector allows an unskilled individual to
dock media player 400 with a docking station. Furthermore,
vibration stress of the connectors can be reduced by allowing
connector 425 to float freely within constrained region 418.
Constrained region 418 could be a cavity provided a housing of
media player 400, one or more tabs that loosely hold connector in
roughly the same position, or other from of restraint. Allowing
connector 425 to float ensures that the docking station and media
player have some play relative to each other. Such an approach is
desirable in ecosystems where vibration can be an issue, including
an aircraft IFE system, or other vehicles. In a preferred
embodiment, connector 425 is constrained to float freely only in
two dimensions, for example connector 425 can move laterally
according movement 460 in an X and a Y direction.
Installation or Docking
[0075] FIG. 5 presents a side view of an embodiment where media
player 520 is being installed within a receiving area of docking
station 510. As media player 520 is moved toward docking station
510 approximately in the direction indicated by arrow 501 at an
installation angle 0, one or more of guiding surfaces 517 (e.g.,
concave surfaces) on docking station 510 and complementary guiding
surfaces 527 (e.g., convex surfaces) on media player 520 guide
movement of player 520 into a proper fit. Once docked, media play
520 mates with docking station 510 via connectors 525 and 515.
Cable 563 can provide power, communications, or other resources to
player 520 from remote devices via a docking station.
[0076] In a preferred embodiment, guiding surfaces 527 comprise one
or more beveled surfaces to ease docking of media player 520 into
docking station 510. For example, in an aircraft IFE system
embodiment where media player 520 is docked in a seatback, beveled
surfaces 527 allow flexibility with respect to the initial angle
.theta. at which player 520 is installed. Previous docking systems
required direct installation at an angle of essentially zero
degrees where all surfaces must align a prior before actual
installation. Providing for a wide variation in installation angle
.theta. ensures that media player 520 can docked easily, especial
in environments where space is limited. For example, in an aircraft
environment a flight attendant can easily remove a media player 520
and install a new media player 520 by sliding or tilting the player
into the receptacle provided by docking station 510 at a range of
accessible angles .theta. from zero to a maximum receiving angle
even while a passenger is seated at the docking station location.
In a preferred embodiment a maximum receiving installation angle
.theta. can be as much as 10 degrees, more preferably as much as 20
degrees, and yet more preferably as much as 30 degrees. One should
note that angle .theta. can be measured in the X or Y direction,
thereby defining a cone of tolerance for installing media player
520.
[0077] Guiding surfaces 517 and 527 ensure that player 520
correctly docks with docking station 510. It is also contemplated
connector 525 and connector 515 can be configured with guiding
surfaces to ensure that they mate correctly without requiring a
tool, or requiring significant time aligning the connectors. The
guiding surfaces of connectors 525 and 515 are preferably sized and
dimensioned to allow the connectors to mate without undue lateral
movement, especially in embodiments where one or both connectors
are allowed to float freely in a constrained region. For example,
in the example shown connector 515 can flow freely as indicated by
movement 560 within constrained region 518 provided by docking
station 510. It is thought that the amount of movement 560 is small
relative to the size connector's guiding surfaces, for example the
maximum movement 560 allowed is preferably less than 50% of the
minimum width of a connector's guiding surface.
[0078] Guiding surfaces 517 and 527 are illustrated as planar
surfaces. However, it is also contemplated that surfaces 517 and
527 could comprise curved surfaces, interlocking surfaces, or other
surfaces. It is also contemplated that surfaces 517 and 527 can
comprises rails and tracks, rollers, or other means for guiding
player 520 into proper docked position within docking station
510.
[0079] In a preferred embodiment docking station 510 or media
player 520 also includes media player lock 513. Lock 513 shown in
an unlocked position and as part of docking station 510. However,
lock 513 could also be part of media player 520. Once player 520 is
docked, lock 513 can be locked to securely attach player 520 to
docking station 510 by threading lock 513 through lock slots 523,
possibly embedded in the chassis of player 520. Lock 513
advantageously holds player 520 in position during an impact to
prevent player 520 from falling to a floor during an emergency.
Preferably, when lock 513 is locked onto player 520, lock 513
retains player 520 local to docking station 510 under impacts as
great as 10 Gs, more preferably at least 15 Gs, yet more preferably
at least 17 Gs, and yet more probably at least 20 Gs. Such an
approach is especially advantageous in aircraft. Preferably media
player 520 is held local to docking station 510 after impact within
one meter, more preferably within 50 centimeters and yet more
preferably within 10 centimeters. In some embodiments lock 513 is
simply a metal rod or ring that attaches to the housing or frame of
player 520, or station 510. However, other locks could also be used
to retain player 520 local to docking station 510 after an impact
including a tether, bolts, hooks, latches, screws, or other locking
means that keeps player from falling to the floor during or after
an impact.
[0080] In a preferred embodiment, lock 513 can be operated by a
key. The key can be mechanical as is typically used. It is also
contemplated that the key can be a non-mechanical key, possibly a
wireless key. Example non-mechanical keys include a magnetic key,
RFID based key, key fob, a wireless protocol key (e.g., Bluetooth,
Wireless USB, Zigbee, Wibree, Z-Wave, UWB), or even a remote key
operated by a distal server in a crew compartment. It is also
contemplated that docking station 510 can provide key
authentication or authorization via communication with a distal
server. For example, when a non-mechanical key is within proximity
of docking station 510, docking station 510 can read a key-ID from
the key, via Bluetooth or RFID for example. The key-ID can be sent
to a head unit server for verification that the key is authorized
to unlock lock 513. Authorization can restricted to location, time,
or other desirable parameters.
[0081] Lock 513 could be hidden from view to prevent unauthorized
access. For example, a mechanical lock opening could be provided
through a vent in an exposed surface of player 520. Alternatively,
if a wireless key is used, lock 513 could simply be embedded within
player 520 or docking station 510 out of view.
[0082] In some embodiments, the key is only required to unlock
player 520 from a docked position. Once unlocked, the player can be
safely removed. When a new player is docked, lock 513 can re-engage
the newly docked player automatically without requiring the use of
the key to lock the player. This approach further reduces the steps
necessary to install a player 520, for example during a flight.
Docked Players
[0083] In FIG. 6, docking system 600 illustrates an embodiment
where media player 620 is installed or docked with docking station
610. The arrangement shown is suitable for use in a seatback of an
aircraft IFE ecosystem, a bulkhead, a car navigation interface, or
other docking station location that substantially encloses player
620. The guiding surfaces of player 620 and docking station 610
operate as ducting surfaces 627 and 617, respectively. Ducting
surfaces 627 and 617 cooperate to form plenum 650, which in turn
provides for passive cooling airflow 655. In a preferred
embodiment, airflow 655 originates at cool air vent 665 located
near the bottom of exposed surface 621. Airflow 655 circulates
through plenum 650 providing cooling to player 620 and exits plenum
650 via hot air vent 663 near the top of exposed surface 621.
[0084] It is specifically contemplated that exposed surface 621
could comprise one or more bezels extending from player 620 and
overlapping adjacent external surfaces (e.g., a bulkhead, seatback,
etc.). The bezels can also include one or more vent openings to
allow airflow through vents 663 and 665.
[0085] Providing a passive cooling airflow via properly configured
ducting surfaces 617 and 627 reduces requirements for active
cooling elements. It is also contemplated that media player 620
could include one or more heat sinks that extend into plenum 650 to
enhance player cooling, if desired. Fans or other powered cooling
assemblies are no longer required, which reduces weight and reduces
power consumption, both of which are desirable in vehicular or even
building ecosystems.
[0086] In ecosystems where vibration stresses wear on player 620 or
docking station 610, for example in an aircraft IFE ecosystem,
docking stations 610 or players 620 can be fitted with cushioned
pads 670 that hold player 620 in an installed position and that
vibrationally isolate surfaces of media player 620. Pads 670 can be
formed from any suitable material, preferably a silicone rubber,
which has some elasticity to absorb or distribute vibrations
through out the assembly. Pads 670 are preferably sized and
dimensioned to allow for airflow 655 to flow substantially freely.
Additionally pads 670 could be inserts that insert into receiving
areas molded or formed into the housings of docking station 610 or
player 620.
[0087] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many
more modifications besides those already described are possible
without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive
subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the
spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the
specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in
the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In
particular, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be
interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a
non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements,
components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with
other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly
referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one
of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . .
and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element
from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.
* * * * *
References