U.S. patent application number 14/015405 was filed with the patent office on 2014-02-20 for systems, methods and apparatuses for brokering data between wireless devices, servers and data rendering devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is Luis M. Ortiz. Invention is credited to Luis M. Ortiz.
Application Number | 20140049372 14/015405 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26908898 |
Filed Date | 2014-02-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140049372 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ortiz; Luis M. |
February 20, 2014 |
SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR BROKERING DATA BETWEEN
WIRELESS DEVICES, SERVERS AND DATA RENDERING DEVICES
Abstract
A system ensures security over remote controlled entries
utilizing a remote control transmitter when a unique number pattern
or code is entered into the user interface. The remote control
transmitter can include three or more buttons (either physical or
represented on a touchscreen display) whereon a unique pattern is
entered in order to cause the transmitter to send its RF signal to
a receiver associated with the secured entry. When the proper code
is not entered onto the keypad or buttons associated with the
remote control transmitter with a preselected number of tries then
the remote control transmitter can become inoperable for a period
of time before entry can be attempted again. When unsuccessful
entry is attempted on more than another preselected number of tries
then the remote control transmitter can become inoperable for a
longer duration, or permanently.
Inventors: |
Ortiz; Luis M.;
(Albuquerque, NM) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ortiz; Luis M. |
Albuquerque |
NM |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
26908898 |
Appl. No.: |
14/015405 |
Filed: |
August 30, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13777273 |
Feb 26, 2013 |
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14015405 |
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12569739 |
Sep 29, 2009 |
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13777273 |
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09887492 |
Jun 22, 2001 |
7630721 |
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12569739 |
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13030037 |
Feb 17, 2011 |
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09887492 |
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60214339 |
Jun 27, 2000 |
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61305190 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
340/5.64 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04M 1/72522 20130101;
H04W 12/00508 20190101; H04W 4/80 20180201; G06Q 10/06 20130101;
G06Q 20/102 20130101; H04L 67/1095 20130101; H04M 2250/22 20130101;
H04L 67/04 20130101; H04L 63/083 20130101; H04M 1/72583 20130101;
H04L 63/0861 20130101; H04L 67/2842 20130101; G07C 9/00674
20130101; H04L 5/14 20130101; H04L 67/289 20130101; H04L 63/102
20130101; H04W 4/024 20180201; H04L 67/18 20130101; G06Q 20/322
20130101; H04W 4/02 20130101; H04L 67/02 20130101; H04L 67/306
20130101; H04W 88/02 20130101; H04M 1/026 20130101; H04L 69/329
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
340/5.64 |
International
Class: |
G07C 9/00 20060101
G07C009/00 |
Claims
1. A portable, wireless transmitter for enabling access to secured
entries, comprising: a controller; a user interface including at
least three button switches in communication with said controller;
a memory accessible by said controller and storing unique signals
for more than one secured entry and used for transmission by a
wireless transmitter and for storing unique entry patterns provided
on more than one of said at least three button switches, wherein
said controller has access to said memory and is adapted to provide
at least one unique signal to a wireless RF transmitter in response
to unique entry patterns physically entered on said at least three
button switches and wherein said controller becomes inoperable when
a pattern not stored in memory is physically entered more than once
on said at least three button switches; and a wireless RF
transmitter adapted to transmit at least one unique radio frequency
provided from said controller to at least one secured entry
selected from the user interface by physical entry on said at least
three button switches of the unique entry pattern associated with
the at least one entry.
2. The portable, wireless transmitter for enabling access to
secured entries of claim 1, wherein said user interface includes at
least three button switches and said unique entry pattern is a
number or letter character pattern entered on said at least three
button switches by a user and said unique entry pattern is
associated with a secured entry selected from more than one secured
entry, wherein each secured entry is associated with its own unique
entry pattern entered on a combination of the at least three button
switches labeled by number or letter characters.
3. A portable, wireless transmitter for enabling access to secured
entries, comprising: a controller; a user interface in
communication with a controller and including at least three button
switches, wherein each of said at least three button switches are
marked with number or letter characters; a memory accessible by
said controller and adapted to store unique signals associated with
more than one secured entry and used for transmission by a wireless
transmitter to wireless receivers associated with the more than one
secured entry and for storing unique entry patterns provided on
said user interface that are further associated with the unique
signals that are each associated with the more than one secured
entry; and a wireless RF transmitter in communication with said
controller, wherein said controller matches a unique entry pattern
provided as input signals from the at least three button switches
with unique entry patterns stored in said memory and provide at
least one of the unique signals associated with the unique entry
pattern obtained from memory to the wireless RF transmitter for
transmission to a secure entry receiver if unique entry patterns
entered on said user interface match stored unique entry patterns
associated with the a unique signal recognized by the secure entry,
otherwise said controller become inoperable when a pattern not
stored in memory is physically entered more than once on said at
least three button switches.
4. A method using a portable, wireless transmitter for authorized
access to secured entries, comprising: providing a portable,
wireless remote control including a controller, a user interface in
communication with a controller, a wireless transmitter in
communication with said controller and a memory accessible by said
controller and adapted to store unique signals used for
transmission by said wireless transmitter and for storing unique
entry patterns provided by a user on at least three buttons
associated with said user interface; initiating said portable,
wireless remote control in association with a unique signal that is
further associated with a secured entry by accepting an initial
unique entry pattern from a user on the at least three buttons of
said user interface and storing the initial unique pattern in
memory, and repeating initiation for more than one secured entry;
and using said portable, wireless remote control after initiation
to gain access to a secure entry selected from more than one
secured entry with unique signals stored in the portable, wireless
remote control, wherein said controller matches a unique entry
pattern entered by a user on the at least three buttons with the
initial unique entry pattern stored in said memory and provides at
least one of said unique signals obtained from memory to a wireless
RF transmitter for transmission to a secure entry receiver if
unique entry patterns pattern matches the secured entry and send a
unique signal recognized by the secure entry receiver, otherwise
said controller become inoperable when a pattern not stored in
memory is physically entered more than once on said at least three
button switches.
Description
PRIORITY TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority as a continuation
application of Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
13/777,273, entitled "Systems, Methods and Apparatuses for
Brokering Data Between Wireless Devices, Servers and Data Rendering
Devices," filed Feb. 26, 2013 and is incorporated herein by
reference, which is a continuation application of Nonprovisional
patent application Ser. No. 12/569,739, entitled "Systems, Methods
and Apparatuses for Providing Video Data to Data Rendering Devices
for Display on Multimedia Video Devices at the Request of Wireless
Hand Held Devices," filed Sep. 29, 2009 and is incorporated herein
by reference, which is a continuation of Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 09/887,492, entitled "Systems, Methods and
Apparatuses for Brokering Data Between Wireless Devices and Data
Rendering Devices," which was filed Jun. 22, 2001 and is also
incorporated herein by reference, and which is a continuation of
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/214,339, also entitled
"Systems, methods and apparatuses for brokering data between
wireless devices and data rendering devices," filed Jun. 27, 2000.
This application also claims priority as a continuation application
of Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 13/030,037, entitled
"Coded Remote Controller and Means to Secure Entry," filed Feb. 17,
2011, which claims priority to provisional application 61/305,190
filed Feb. 17, 2010, and both applications are also incorporated
herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is generally related to the use and
management of data retrieved over wireless networks. More
particularly, the present invention is related to handheld devices
that are programmable with unique codes to wirelessly open secured
entries such as garage doors and gates.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Wireless computing devices (generally known as mobile or
cellular phones, smart phones, and laptops) are available that
communicate wirelessly through data networks (including cellular
digital wireless networks). Many wireless telephones are
"Web-enabled." Hand held wireless devices that transmit and receive
digital data are referred to as Personal Digital Assistants
("PDAs", with similar devices being referred to as palm or pocket
computers). Wireless networks are continuing to be expanded and
integrated with new applications and services that are compatible
with the growing number of wireless devices entering the
marketplace. The capabilities of a cell phone and PDA are being
combined into a smartphone.
[0004] Other examples of advancements within the field of wireless
communications include the following: The Wireless Internet is
generally known as an RF-based service that provides access to the
Internet (e.g., WiFi), e-mail and/or the World Wide Web via
wireless devices. Wireless IP generally refers to the packet data
protocol standard for sending wireless data over the Internet.
Wireless LANs (Local Area Networks) are known to utilize wireless
transmissions, such as radio or infrared communication instead of
phone lines or fiber-optic cable, to connect to data devices.
[0005] Remote control systems employed to operate barriers, such as
garage doors, gates and the like typically utilize hand held
transmitters which emit encoded signals transmitted at radio
frequencies to a receiver associated with an automatic door or gate
operator. The receiver is effective to intercept and decode the
transmitted signal and thus cause the actuation of the operator to
open or close the door or gate. These systems include the type in
which the receiver has code switches which can be manually set to
correspond to the authorized transmitter codes or, alternatively,
may be "learn"-type systems in which codes or the like that are
used to identify authorized transmitter codes are initially stored
in the receiver during a preparatory program or learn mode.
[0006] Remote control garage door or entry door openers presently
available remain straightforward in operation and architecture. A
portable RF transmitter (Radio frequency transmitter) is coded to
open or matched with an opener associated with a secure entry
(e.g., garage doors and gates). The RF transmitter is typically
handheld, wireless and sends a RF signal that is matched with or
learned by the entry receiver. For example, a transmitter in the
form of a portable garage door opener typically kept in an
automobile is matched by a unique RF signal generated by the
transmitter to a receiver associated with the garage door opener
equipment. A single button can be pressed on the transmitter to
open or close a garage door or gate by transmission of a coded
signage or unique frequency.
[0007] The risk of unauthorized access is a major concern
associated with the use of the above-mentioned systems. For
example, unauthorized access can potentially be achieved by means
of an exhaustive, systematic search in which a large number of
different codes are successively transmitted in the hope that,
eventually, one of the transmitted codes will match the authorized
code and activate the system. Another scheme used to gain
unauthorized access is a technique, sometimes referred to as "code
grabbing", in which the initial transmission of the authorized code
is electronically intercepted and stored for later unauthorized
use.
[0008] Hence it is believed that a more secure method and system
for enabling access to a secured environment are needed. The
present invention accomplishes the need.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The following summary is provided to facilitate an
understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the
embodiments disclosed and is not intended to be a full description.
A full appreciation of the various aspects of the embodiments can
be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, drawings, and
abstract as a whole.
[0010] It is, therefore, one aspect of the present invention to
provide a secured entry system utilizing at least one unique code
entered on an user interface to open at least one associated entry
that is secured (e.g., garage door, gated entry, front door
lock).
[0011] It is another aspect of the present invention to provide
systems and methods for enabling access to a secured environment
utilizing handheld devices and utilizing unique codes assigned to
secured entries.
[0012] It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide
systems that can ensure security over remote controlled entries
utilizing a programmable remote control transmitter, which can be
provided in the form of a smartphone (wireless PDA).
[0013] The aforementioned aspects and other objectives and
advantages can now be achieved as described herein. The present
invention includes a system to ensure security over remote
controlled entries utilizing a remote control transmitter when a
unique number pattern or code is entered into the user interface
(e.g., buttons or touchscreen of remote control transmitter. The
remote control transmitter can include three or more buttons
(either physical or represented on a touchscreen display) whereon a
unique pattern is entered in order to cause the transmitter to send
its RF signal to a receiver associated with the secured entry. When
the proper code is not entered onto the keypad or buttons
associated with the remote control transmitter with a preselected
number of tries then the remote control transmitter can become
inoperable for a period of time before entry can be attempted
again. When unsuccessful entry is attempted on more than another
preselected number of tries then the remote control transmitter can
become inoperable for a longer duration, or permanently.
[0014] The remote control transmitter can be adapted to operate
with any currently existing receiver, such as standard garage door
openers, gate openers and door-locks. The remote control
transmitter can be matched, for example, with the garage door
opener through procedures known in the art such as programming the
entry receiver to recognize a unique code transmitted from the
transmitter. After matching the transmitter with the receiver, the
unique code on the transmitter can only be transmitted from the
transmitter when the proper combination of key entries is entered
on the transmitter.
[0015] In accordance with a feature of the present invention,
openers for secured entries can receive data directly from WDs
and/or through data networks (wireless and wired) after/with
coordination by WDs with wireless networks providing data to
secured entries.
[0016] The novel features of the present invention will become
apparent to those of skill in the relevant art upon examination of
the following detailed description of the invention or can be
learned by practice of the present invention. It should be
understood, however, that the detailed description of the invention
and the specific examples presented, while indicating certain
embodiments of the present invention, are provided for illustration
purposes only because various changes and modifications within the
scope of the invention will become apparent to those of skill in
the relevant art from the detailed description of the invention and
claims that follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The accompanying figures, in which like references numerals
may refer to identical or functionally-similar elements throughout
the separate views are incorporated in and form part of the
specification, further illustrate aspects of the present invention
and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve
to better explain the principles of, but are not intended to limit,
the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a wireless remote
control and receiver system which can be adapted for use in
implementing a preferred embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a high-level flow chart of logical
operational steps of a method, which can be implemented in
accordance with a preferred embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating components that can
be included in a wireless device (WD) in accordance with aspects of
the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating steps by a WD for
selecting and providing data to a DRD;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating additional steps of a
WD for providing data to a DRD for rendering by the DRD;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating steps by a WD for
selecting a DRD for transfer of data;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating steps by a WD for
selecting a DRD using network resources, selecting data for
transfer to/rendering by a selected DRD and requesting data
transfer/render to the selected DRD;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating steps for a WD/user to
select a DRD for data transfer via a network and selecting render
functions at a DRD;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating steps by a network
server in processing a request for DRD location information;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating steps by a WD for
requesting DRD location information, data transfer and data
rendering;
[0028] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating steps by a DRD for
receiving/rendering data at the request of a WD; and
[0029] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating approval
determination steps by a DRD.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0030] Particular configurations discussed in these non-limiting
examples can be varied and are cited merely to illustrate at least
one preferred embodiment of the present invention and are not
intended to limit the scope of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a wireless remote
control and receiver system, which can be adapted for use in
implementing a preferred embodiment. A portable, wireless
transmitter 110 can be provided for enabling access to secured
entries. A memory (not shown in figure) can be adapted to store
unique signals employed for transmission by the wireless
transmitter 110 and for storing unique entry patterns provided by a
user interface. A controller 130 having access to said memory and
adapted to provide at least one unique signal to the wireless
transmitter 110 and unique entry patterns as input signals from at
least one of a biometric sensor or at least three button switches
can also be provided. The wireless transmitter 110 provided can be
adapted to transmit at least one unique radio frequency provided
from said controller 130. Any user interface can be included with
at least one of a biometric sensor or at least three button
switches in communication with said controller 130. During use, a
user can enter a unique pattern of numbers (or a biometric when a
biometric reader is used), which can then activate the transmitter
to send an RF signal to the entry circuit receiver 120. During
programming, the user can enter a unique pattern (e.g., any
combination of 0-9, or a biometric) for storage in the memory.
Re-entry of the pattern can initiate transmission of the RF
signals. After programming, the remote controller's unique signal
can be matched with (programmed to operate) the entry system
hardware 140, by methods known in the art of garage door and entry
openers.
[0032] As an alternate embodiment, the remote control transmitter
110 can be coded with a biometric template memorized from at least
one user authorized with entry into the secured embodiment. Other
than a unqiue patter of numbers or key entries, a biometric (e.g.,
fingerprint) can be utilized to activate transmission of the RF
signal to the secured entry receiver120.
[0033] It can be appreciated that the remote controller can be used
to open more than one secure entry. Several unique transmission
signals can be transmitted by the remote controller. Each unique
transmission signal can be associated with a different unique
pattern (e.g., a unique combination of numbers from 0-9, or a
different biometric sample such as a thumb or index finger).
[0034] FIG. 2 illustrates a high-level flow chart 200 of logical
operational steps of a method, which can be implemented in
accordance with a preferred embodiment. As depicted at 201 the user
can enter a unique pattern of numbers on the wireless transmitter
110 (FIG. 1). Then as illustrated at 202 the wireless transmitter
110 get activated and it can send an RF signal. Next the entry
circuit receiver 120 receives these RF signals as illustrated at
203. The controller 130 can then provide unique signals as
indicated at 204. Finally the entry system hardware matches these
signals with the signals in memory and transmits a command to open
the entry if proper combination is entered.
[0035] The present invention allows a user to use a single portable
wireless device having a user interface (e.g, keypad) with at least
three buttons, similar to a key fob or garage remote control device
that is clipped onto a car visor, to open more than one secured
entry by physically entering (using a human finger) a unique
pattern associated with each of the more than one secured entry
onto the single portable wireless device using a combination of
more than three buttons entries physically entered by a user on a
user interface, where the unique patterns are each associated with
one of the more than one secured entries that can be opened using
the single portable wireless device, and physical entry of a unique
pattern causes a unique RF signal to be transmitted to a wireless
receiver of the secured entry that is associated with the unique RF
signal caused to be transmitted from the single portable device by
physical entry of the unique pattern.
[0036] In other words, and by example only, a single portable
wireless device can open more than one garage door and other
secured entries into a secured complex using a unique entry pattern
physically entered on buttons associated with a user interface,
thereby preventing unauthorized humans from gaining entry with the
wireless device because the unauthorized humans would not know the
unique patterns to enter into the wireless device to open each
entry, and the portable wireless device become disabled should a
pattern not stored in memory be physically entered on the buttons
more than once. The prior art does not teach this, either alone or
in combination. For exemplary purposes only, the following example
entries can be opened entering a unique pattern onto a three button
"A", "C" portable device also illustrated below:
TABLE-US-00001 ##STR00001## Physical Pattern Secured Entry Assigned
Frequency ACB Complex Entry Gate 123 MHz CAB Garage Door # 1 286
MHz BAC Garage Door # 2 154 MHz BBB Front Entry Door 175 MHz . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AAA Office Garage 111 MHz
[0037] As can be easily determined mathematically by the example, a
total of twenty-seven (27) potential combinations are possible with
only a three-button opener. Therefore up to a total of twenty-seven
potential entries could potentially be operated with a single
device. This capability simply is not taught or suggested by the
cited art of Fitzgibbon and Rodriguez, nor any other art in the
field of endeavor for a portable device, such as a garage door
opener.
[0038] In accordance with the following disclosure of the present
invention, data generally refers to text, voice, graphics and/or
video. Data rendering generally refers to the printing, displaying
and/or retrieval of data. Wireless Devices (WD) include mobile
phones, PDAs, pagers and other hand held wireless appliances
adapted for connectivity to wireless networks and capable of
processing data. A Data Rendering Device (DRD) includes data
rendering hardware (e.g., printers, copiers, displays, etc.) and
multimedia software adapted for rendering data at the request
and/or coordination of what can be a previously unknown WD. DRDs
can receive data directly from WDs and/or through networks (e.g.,
wireless, Internet, intranet, etc.) after/with coordination by WDs
with networks providing data and support to DRDs. Data Brokering
includes the negotiation, management, coordination and/or
facilitation of data movement and use between and throughout DRDs,
WDs and networks.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, an environment is illustrated as an
example wherein aspects of the invention described herein can be
deployed. An aspect of the present invention provides methods,
systems and apparatuses for data brokering between wireless devices
(WDs) 6 and Data Rendering Devices (DRDs) 7. Data brokering can be
carried out directly between WDs 6 and DRDs 7 via local wireless
communications including infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF)
technology and/or indirectly via networks 12 through the use of
known networking and data formatting protocols. Information related
to WDs 6, DRDs 7 and/or WD user's (e.g., subscriber identification,
location, accounting, profiles) can be managed by a combination of
network servers 15, Home Location Registers (NLRB) 16 and Visiting
Location Registers 19. Subscriber information for a WD user can be
kept Ire at least one HLR 13 and/or VLR 19, but can also be
generated by the WD 6 (e.g., stored in the WD or provided together
with a network request by WD user). Subscriber information can
include a profile regarding DRD usage (e.g., restriction regarding
geography, hardware capabilities, security, biometrics, etc). A WD
6 user is typically in communication with a supporting network 12
through wireless network communications hardware such as cellular
antennas 16, Base Station Controllers (BSCs) 17 and Mobile System
Controller (MSCs) 18. A copy of a WD 6 user's subscription
information can be kept in a VLR 19 associated with the area and
MSC 18 the user is operating during communication. Satellite global
positioning system (GPS) 9 capabilities installed at the wireless
network interface can assist in determining a WD 6 user's location
by routing location information to the VLR19/HLR 13 when a WD user
communicates with a supporting wireless network 12. A WD 6 user
will generally retrieve data from multimedia database resources 8
available or accessible to the WD and WD user over networks 12.
Examples of multimedia resources include messaging mailboxes and
Internet/intranet information.
[0040] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention
data brokering can be accomplished directly between WDs and DRDs
(e.g., locally via infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF)
technology) or can be negotiated with and provided through networks
using available networking protocols. Referring to FIG. 2, a block
diagram of some of the components that can be included in a DRD 7
is provided. A DRD 7, serving as an apparatus adapted for rendering
data associated with a data rendering request issued by a WD 6,
includes an authorization module 21, communications means 23,
rendering means 25, and a microprocessor 24. The authorization
module 21 approves receipt of rendering data in accordance with a
request initiated by a WD 6. The authorization module 21 can
approve or deny the request to render data based on the DRDs 7
readiness status 27. A status monitor 27 can be provided to track
the operational readiness of the rendering means 25 (which can
include printing, display and retrieval hardware status, and
microprocessor 24 load/communications activity). The communications
means 23 can provide a DRD 7 with wired and/or wireless
communications with networks 28 and/or wireless devices (as
generally described and illustrated in FIG. 1 and as further known
in the wireless communications art). Wired communication via
communications means 23 can occur through known data network
communications hardware, methods and protocols (e.g., cable modems,
Ethernet, Bluetooth, etc.). Wireless communication via
communications means 23 can occur through known wireless data
network communications hardware, methods and protocols (e.g.,
Bluetooth, WLAN, 802.11b, etc.). The network communications means
28 can provide DRD 7 communication capabilities over, for example,
the public service telephone network (PSTN), digital subscriber
line (DSL), Integrated Services for Digital Networks (ISDN) and/or
Local Area Network (LAN). A DRD 7 can also communicate with
networks via wireless means (e.g., cellular, satellite, microwave,
etc.) A user's direct interaction with a DRD 7 can be provided
through a user interface (UI) 22 associated with the DRD 7. The UI
22 can allow users to control (e.g., manage) and manipulate (e.g.,
interact with) data at the DRD 7. The UI 22 can be used to provide
user passcodes (including biometrics) directly to the DRD 6 in
order to receive rendered data from the DRD 7. Alternatively, a
user can interact directly with the DRD 7 via a WD 6. A WD 6 can
provide commands and/receive data from the DRD 7 through IR and RF
means. IR and RF data transport and communication hardware and
protocols are known in the art and can be used for local
communication between WDS 6 and DRDs 7. Memory 30 is also available
at the DRD 7 to store applications, data, DRD profile information,
passcode-related tools and other information and tools necessary
for the DRD 7 to operate and communicate. The microprocessor 24
provides management and control over the DRD 6 and its components.
Management and control over the DRD 7 and data can be through the
UI 22 and/or WD 6.
[0041] DRDs 7 can be easily locatable using network 28 resources
and/or WDs 6, Information related to a DRD's physical location and
rendering capabilities, for example, can be registered at network
28 resources (e.g., an HLR) supporting network communication with
the DRD 7. DRD information regarding capabilities can also be held
within DRD memory 30 for retrieval by the network and/or WD 6. In
accordance with this aspect of the present invention, WD
proximity-based DRD locating/finding technology should enable WD
users to locate available DRDs 7 based on a DRD's 7 proximity to
the a roaming WD's location (e.g., determinable by GPS) and/or
profile information. Profile information related to the DRD 20 can
be provided from memory 30 at the DRD 20 and/or through the network
28. User/WD 6 location information can be determined via networks
in communication with the user's WD 6. The user can choose to
render data at the DRD 7 suggested by the network. Several DRDs can
be identified by the network 28 for selection by the WD user. DRD
brokering and location functionality can be included in familiar
rendering devices (e.g., Internet Kiosks, printers, photocopiers,
fax machines, automatic teller machines (ATMs), video monitors,
projectors used in conference rooms and other multimedia-enabled
devices) that are IR, RF and/or network communication enabled. DRDs
can be public or exclusive to an enterprise. Other DRD compatible
devices are foreseeable given the various aspects of the present
invention taught herein.
[0042] A block diagram of some of the components that can be
included in a WD 6 are illustrated in FIG. 3. Referring to FIG. 3,
a WD 6 will include a communications means 31, microprocessor 35,
and memory 36. The communications means can include IR 32, RF 33
and mobile network RF communications modules 34. The WD 6 can have
a broad RF 33 and/or IR 32 signal recording learning capabilities
under the control of the microprocessor 35 utilizing the WD memory
36 for signal storage. The WD can be programmed/provided with
unique control functions and/or signals applicable to a particular
DRD 7 selected for use by the WD 6. Control functions can be
recorded by the WD 6 memory 36 after being obtained by the
communications means 31. A WD 6 can be provided with unique DRD
control signals from the network or by requesting a temporary copy
of DRD 7 control functionality directly from the DRD 7, in which
case the DRD 7 can upload, via IR or RF communication, a copy of
DRD programmable functions to the WD. It would be desirable for
basic DRD functions and signaling to become standardize so that WDS
and DRDs can interact with ease. WD and DRD location information
can be coordinated/facilitated with the assistance of a locator
module 37. The locator module 37 can be used to incorporate
device-based GPS resources and/or to store locator programs and
functions. The memory 36 can be used to store, for example, data,
profile information, passcode information (including COMSEC) and
programmable functions associated with IR and RF control over and
communication with remote controlled devices (in addition to the
DRD).
[0043] In addition to memorizing DRD 7 control signals and
functions, a WD 6 having signal recording capabilities can be
programmable to facilitate user control over other devices having
wireless remote control capabilities. A WD 6 can learn device
signals and functions associated with controlled devices by being
programmed with applicable remote control signals. RF/IR signals
can be learned and stored in WD memory and associated functionality
can be assigned to optional/additional WD menu functions or UI
controls. A WD can thereby be adapted to communicate with diverse
remote controlled devices (e.g., secured entry (garage doors,
gates, etc), entertainment devices (games, TV, audio) and alarm
control (home, vehicle)).
[0044] Another aspect of the present invention can provide users
with passcode protected retrieval of data from the DRD 7. The
passcode can be provided to the DRD 7 prior to data rendering
and/or retrieval from the network 28. The authorization module 21
can facilitate passcode interaction at the DRD 20. A user can
provide passcode information at the UI 22 and/or through a WD 6.
The passcode can be verified at the network 28 (e.g., HLR) or by
the DRD 7 (e.g., referencing DRD memory 20). Passcode information
and verification can include the use of biometrics (e.g., voice,
retinal, fingerprint) and/or communication security (COMSEC)
methods. Passcode control can also be provided over use of the WD
6. For example, a passcode can be required before a WD user can use
the WD to communicate with and control diverse remote controlled
devices as described above (e.g., controlling security alarms and
secured entry devices).
[0045] Referring again to FIG. 2, a temporary memory 20 can be
located at the DRD as a means for providing additional dedicated
security over user data. The temporary memory 20 can be used for
temporary storage of user data provided to the DRD 7 for rendering
on behalf of the WD user. The memory 20 holding the data can be
permanently cleared of the data (also referred to "zeroing" the
memory) through methods known in the art (e.g., electrical
potential used to clear electronic memory registers). Zeroing the
memory will ensure that data can not be reused by a subsequent user
of the DRD. Memory 20 can be cleared upon: termination of use by
the user, after a period of time (e.g., based on failure to render
data or log-off) and/or upon user selection of a memory clearing
operation at the DRD.
[0046] Methods of communications security (COMSEC) can also be
incorporated into the DRD 7 to provide secure retrieval/use of
data. Using encryption/decryption (also referred to as cryptography
or "Crypto") methods, a user can be required to provide a DRD 7
with decryption codes to render data. Encryption/decryption coding
can be provided by the network 28 (service provider) with data
being transmitted at the request of the WD 6. The network 28 can
generate data in encrypted form and provide the encrypted data to
the DRD 7 through the network 28. The network can also provide the
WD 6 (e.g., can be stored in WD memory 36) with decryption codes
needed to render encrypted data at the DRD 7. The user can transmit
decryption codes to the DRD 7 directly via the WD 6 (e.g., IR or RF
transmission).
[0047] Another aspect of the present invention provides
simultaneous display of data at DRDs and WDs, which can be referred
to as data mirroring or video mirroing. Such capability can be most
relevant where WDs and DRDs possess compatible display
technologies. In accordance with simultaneous display, another
aspect of the present invention enables WD 6 control and/or
manipulation of data displayed on a DRD 7. WD 6 control can be
provided via IR/RF communication with a DRD. The WD 6 can host the
networks retrieval of data for redisplay on DRD 7 via simultaneous
WD-DRD communication (e.g., IR and/or additional RF capacity)
and/or WD-network communication via cellular RF capability.
Simultaneous network and DRD communication by the WD 6 would be
possible where more than one RF transmitter/receiving capability
can be provided with the WD 6 (as shown in FIG. 3).
[0048] Another aspect of the present invention provides a payment
mechanisms and/or billing methods associated with DRDs. Payment
mechanisms can be incorporated at the DRD 7 and managed by the
microprocessor 24 and authorization module 21. A DRD 7 can accept
currency and/or provide for electronic debits (e.g., e-money,
account debits, etc.) through the payment mechanism. For example,
an ATM machine can provide DRD capabilities and allow users to be
billed a transaction fee via bank account cards (e.g., ATM, Debit
and Credit cards). Another public device that can provide DRD
capabilities are public telephones, which can allow users to make
rendering related transaction payments via payment mechanisms or be
biped via communication service accounts or arrangements. The DRD
can also authorize operations through billing arrangements (e.g.,
prepaid services). DRD services/capabilities do not have to be
billed to a WD/DRD user in company environments where the users
and/or WD is recognized, by the network and/or DRD, as an
authorized member of an organization. An example of a device that
is generally available throughout large organizations and that can
be suitable for DRD applications is a photocopier.
[0049] Another aspect of the present invention can enable office
hardware such as photocopiers, printers, PCs, monitors, multimedia
projectors, and TV monitors to be incorporated with DRD
methodologies described herein. For example, presentation
projectors typically used in conference room scenarios are already
generally capable of being connected to laptops for the purpose of
displaying electronic information. DRD compatible software and
hardware can be integrated within and/or connected to a multimedia
projector to enable a WD to display data via the projector. Another
aspect of the presentation in such a setting would allow several WD
users to interact with the DRD simultaneously. Simultaneous,
multi-WD user interaction together with dedicated computing
capability can enable conference participants to interact with each
other and displayed data and/or project independent data for
comment by participants. In accordance with another aspect of the
present invention, computing capability necessary to host a
multi-WD user session with a DRD can be provided via networked or
dedicated DRD processing capabilities (e.g., a host computer or
network connection to the DRD) or via a user's WD acting as the
host of the multi-WD session. The host could generally be
responsible for presenting the data (e.g., the image of interest to
the audience) and selectively archiving participant changes and/or
multi-WD interaction with the data.
[0050] In accordance with aspects of using the present invention
methods of use will now be described. Referring to FIG. 4, a WD
user can generally render data at an unassigned DRD by selecting
data for rendering using a WD 41 (e.g., through the WDs associated
UI). Once data has been selected, the user issues a command at the
WD to provide data 42 to the DRD. Data can be provided directly to
the DRD by the WD, or via a network supporting the WD.
[0051] Referring to FIG. 5, when a WD is providing data directly to
a DRD (e.g., via IR or RF communications) some additional steps can
be required by the WD prior to providing data to the DRD. After the
user selects data at the WD 51, but before data is provided to the
DRD 53 at the direction of the WD, the WD achieves communication
with the DRD 52. Once communication has been established 52, the WD
provides the DRD with data 53. The DRD can verify to the WD 54 that
it received the data. The DRD then renders the data 55 after it is
received (generally at the command of the user).
[0052] A WD user can generally invoke the services of any DRD,
public or private, using methods of WD, DRD and Network interaction
further described below. A WD user can render the data directly at
the DRD if its location is known to the user, or the user can
request networks in communication with the WD for assistance in
locating an appropriate DRD. DRD location can be based on the
user's location or a user's (or hand held wireless device's)
proximity to DRDs (known because of location in close proximity to
the DRD (as in the same room), or determinable by the network or
WD) and/or can be based on user requirements provided to the
network or embodied in a WD user profile.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 6, a user selects data for rendering at a
WD 61. If the user does not know the location of a DRD, the user
can request network assistance in identifying the location and/or
capabilities of a DRD 62. Once an acceptable DRD has been selected,
the user can request the network to transfer the data to the DRD
63. Referring to FIG. 7, the WD can first be used by the WD user to
request network assistance in locating an appropriate DRD 71. After
the DRD has been located 71, data for rendering can be selected at
the WD 72 and the network requested to transfer the data to the DRD
73.
[0054] Prior to actual transmission of data to the DRD, the DRD can
require security passcode (e.g., including any of: passcode,
biometrics and/or COMSEC) for transfer and rendering to occur. The
WD device user can provide the passcode at the DRD's physical
location prior to data transfer and rendering. Referring to FIG. 8,
data is selected at the WD for transfer to a DRD via networking 81.
Data is then transferrable to the DRD via network 82. Although data
can be transferred and eventually rendered at the DRD 84 without a
passcode, a passcode can be required 83. The passcode can be
entered at the DRD prior to data transfer 82, or prior to data
rendering 84 at the DRD. If a passcode is required, data will be
rendered by the DRD 85 after the passcode has been entered. The
passcode can be entered using a DRD user interface or via direct
(local) communication to the DRD by the WD.
[0055] When the network is requested to assist the WD in locating a
DRD, the network can select a DRD for the WD based only on the WDs
proximity to the DRD. The network, however, can utilize more than
just a WD x, y location within a geographic region based on GPS to
find an appropriate DRD for the WD. DRD selection can be based on a
profile. Referring to FIG. 9, a network server can receive a
request from a WD for DRD location based on a profile 91. Profile
information can be located in a database (HLR) accessible to the
server and/or transferred by the WD as part of the request for
assistance. The profile can include new requirements issued by the
user regarding locating an appropriate DRD. After the server
receives the request, the server locates and identifies a DRD to
the WD matching the profile 92. The server sends DRD location
information to the WD 93. DRD location information can include
address information, driving directions and/or a map. Such
information is already available from some Internet websites
providing directions/maps. With the present invention, however, the
user does not have to provide known WD location information. The
server can utilize WD location information known by the server
(e.g., based on GPS) to generate directions and/or maps provided to
the WD to locate the appropriate DRD.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 10, a flow diagram of DRD location and
data delivery is illustrated. At the WD the user wanting to render
data at a DRD can request the network to find a DRDs location 101.
A network server will assist the WD as provided in FIG. 9. The WD
will receive DRD location information provided by the network 102.
After DRD location is determined, the WD can have data delivered to
the DRD either: directly from the WD 103 after physically locating
the DRD, or via a request for data delivery through the network
104. If data is provided directly from the WD to the DRD, data can
be rendered by the DRD 107 after receiving the data transferred by
the WD. If data delivery through the network 104 is chosen, the
WD/user can be required to enter a passcode to the DRD 105 prior to
receiving data delivery at the DRD 104 and/or prior to requesting
rendering to the DRD 106. After the rendering request is provided
106, and appropriate passcode authorization received 105 (if
applicable), the DRD renders the data 107.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 11, The DRD can be required to
verify/authorize data receipt and/or rendering. The request for
data receipt and/or rendering can be initiated by the WD/user at
the DRD 111. The DRD can request the WD/user to enter a passcode
113 either before the DRD receives data 112, or before data is
requested by the WD/user to be rendered by the DRD 114.
[0058] Although a DRD may seem appropriate for temporary assignment
to the WD/user for data rendering because of its proximity to
and/or profile match with the WD/user, it may not be available for
rendering. For example, a DRD may not be available for rendering
because it is out of service or has already reached its
schedules/queued/potential capacity for data delivery/rendering
based on a report by dedicated status monitoring means at the DRD.
Referring to FIG. 12, a DRD receives a network request for the DRD
to receive/render data 121 associated with a WD. The DRD will
verify its availability and either approve or deny delivery 122. If
delivery is denied, a rejection is provided to the network 123
(e.g., to the requesting server). If the DRD accepts
delivery/rendering an approval is sent to the network 124. The
network can then send data to be received by the DRD 125. The DRD
can then render the data in accordance with other described
methods.
[0059] The embodiments and examples set forth herein are presented
to best explain the present invention and its practical application
and to thereby enable those skilled in the relevant art to make and
utilize the invention. The skilled in the art, however, should
recognize that the foregoing description and examples have been
presented for the purpose of illustration and example only. Other
variations and modifications of the present invention will be
apparent to those of skill in the art, and it is the intent of the
appended claims that such variations and modifications be covered.
The description as set forth is not intended to be exhaustive or to
limit the scope of the invention. Many modifications and equivalent
variations are possible in light of the above teaching without
departing from the spirit and scope of the following claims. It is
contemplated that the use of the present invention can involve
components having different characteristics. It is intended that
the scope of the present invention be defined by the claims
appended hereto, giving full cognizance to equivalents in all
respects.
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