U.S. patent application number 13/844532 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for motorized luggage or luggage platform with wired or wireless guidance and distance control.
The applicant listed for this patent is Elizabeth Klicpera, Michael Klicpera. Invention is credited to Elizabeth Klicpera, Michael Klicpera.
Application Number | 20140277841 13/844532 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51531514 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140277841 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Klicpera; Elizabeth ; et
al. |
September 18, 2014 |
Motorized Luggage or Luggage Platform with Wired or Wireless
Guidance and Distance Control
Abstract
The present invention comprises a motorized luggage container,
luggage bag, or luggage rack apparatus that has a wired or wireless
control for controlling the movement of the device. The motorized
luggage container, luggage bag, or luggage rack apparatus includes
a plurality of wheels, of which one or more of the wheels are
engaged to a motor, preferably electric in design, and one or more
of the wheels also include a steering mechanism. The motorized
luggage container, luggage bag, or luggage rack also includes a
power supply, such as one or more batteries, and electrical
circuitry for communicating with the wired or wireless control. In
the wire control, a tether line is held by the individual for
controlling the motorized present invention. In the wireless
design, the individual holds, pockets, or otherwise maintains a
wireless remote for which the motorized luggage follows from a
specified distance.
Inventors: |
Klicpera; Elizabeth; (San
Diego, CA) ; Klicpera; Michael; (San Diego,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Klicpera; Elizabeth
Klicpera; Michael |
San Diego
San Diego |
CA
CA |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51531514 |
Appl. No.: |
13/844532 |
Filed: |
March 15, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
701/2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 13/385 20130101;
A45C 5/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
701/2 |
International
Class: |
A45C 13/00 20060101
A45C013/00 |
Claims
1. A motorized luggage apparatus comprising; a luggage, luggage
container, or a luggage bag; said luggage, luggage container, or
luggage bag having one or more wheels or tracks; an electric motor;
an electric power source, said power source in communication with
said motor; said one or more wheels or tracks or engaged to said
motor; electric circuitry, said electric circuitry in communication
with said power source and said motor, and a steering
mechanism.
2. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 1, wherein said motor is electric and said powers
source includes one or more batteries.
3. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 1, wherein said electric motor is a standard
brushed internally commutated design.
4. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 1, wherein said electric motor is a stepping
design.
5. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 4, wherein said stepping electric motor or said
standard brushed internally commutated electric motor also has the
capability to function as the steering mechanism.
6. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 1, further comprising a wired tether is in
electrical communication with said electrical circuitry.
7. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag apparatus
as recited in claim 1, further comprising a remotely located
wireless apparatus that provides guidance and distance data that is
in wireless electrical communication with said electrical
circuitry.
8. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 7, wherein said wireless technology utilizes
distance control and localizing or alignment technology.
9. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 7, wherein said wireless technology utilizes
optical technology.
10. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 7, wherein said wireless technology utilizes
triangulation techniques technology.
11. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 7, wherein said wireless technology utilizes GPS
technology.
12. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 7, wherein said wireless technology utilizes
ultrasonic, Doppler, magnetic or laser sensor technology.
13. A motorized luggage, luggage container, or luggage bag as
recited in claim 7, wherein said wireless technology utilizes
camera following technology.
14. A motorized luggage apparatus comprising; a luggage rack
apparatus; said luggage rack apparatus having one or more wheels or
tracks; an electric motor; a electric power source, said power
source in communication with said motor; said one or more wheels or
tracks engaged to said motor; electric circuitry, said electric
circuitry in communication with said power source and said motor; a
steering mechanism.
15. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 14,
wherein said motor is electric and said powers source includes one
or more batteries.
16. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 14,
wherein said electric motor is a standard brushed internally
commutated design.
17. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 14,
wherein said electric motor is a stepping design.
18. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 17,
wherein said stepping electric motor or said standard brushed
internally commutated electric motor also has the capability to
function as the steering mechanism.
19. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 14,
further comprising a wired tether is in electrical communication
with said electrical circuitry.
20. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 14,
further comprising a remotely located wireless apparatus is in
wireless electrical communication with said electrical
circuitry.
21. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 20,
wherein said wireless technology utilizes distance control and
localizing or alignment technology.
22. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 20,
wherein said wireless technology utilizes optical technology.
23. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 20,
wherein said wireless technology utilizes triangulation techniques
technology.
24. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 20,
wherein said wireless technology utilizes GPS technology.
25. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 20,
wherein said wireless technology utilizes ultrasonic, Doppler,
magnetic or laser sensor technology.
26. A motorized luggage rack apparatus as recited in claim 20,
wherein said wireless technology utilizes camera following
technology.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional
Applications 61/620,010 filed on Apr. 4, 2012. This Provisional
applications is incorporated herein by this reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure relates to traditional luggage
container and luggage bags used generally at airports but more
specifically, relates to a motorized luggage container or luggage
bag that includes wired or wireless control.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Motorized equipment to replace various previous
non-motorized items have been and are being developed as technology
is evolving and the need to provide certain assistance for
individuals who require the use of the items. One such item is the
motorized-wheelchair that has taken over the previous non-motorized
wheelchair. The non-motorized wheelchair generally requires another
person to propel the wheelchair when the rider is incapacitated or
when one is at least partly incapacitated, an associate, spouse or
family member is desired for wheelchair assistance. The purpose of
motorized wheelchairs is to solve the individual assistance problem
of standard wheelchairs and provide the incapacitated or partly
incapacitated individual with a wide range of options, such as
superior range of motion, ability to travel long distances.
[0004] Traditional luggage containers and luggage bags, such as the
ones used by airport passengers, are not of the most convenient
design. This is partly because of the weight of the luggage and the
somewhat awkward way in which individuals must pull or push their
luggage. It can be very tiring especially if the passenger needs to
walk a long way from one terminal to another.
[0005] Hence, there is a need for a luggage container, luggage bag,
or luggage rack apparatus to assists individuals in moving their
luggage from one location to another.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention comprises a motorized luggage
container, luggage bag, or luggage rack apparatus that has a wired
or wireless control for controlling the movement of the device. The
motorized luggage container, luggage bag, or luggage rack apparatus
includes a plurality of wheels, of which one or more of the wheels
are engaged to a motor, preferably electric in design, and one or
more of the wheels also include a steering mechanism. The motorized
luggage container, luggage bag, or luggage rack also includes a
power supply, such as one or more batteries, and electrical
circuitry for communicating with the wired or wireless control. In
the wire control, a tether line is held by the individual for
controlling the motorized present invention. In the wireless
design, the individual holds, pockets, or otherwise maintains a
wireless remote for which the motorized luggage follows from a
specified distance.
[0007] It is also anticipated that the motorized and steering
technology utilized for the present invention could also be applied
to shopping carts, baby carriages and buggies, wagons, laundry
carts, golf bags with golf caddies and lawnmowers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary environment
where individuals are negotiating through hallways with corners and
one individual is walking with his/her motorized luggage that is
wireless following the path of the individual;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an individual walking with
the present invention motorized luggage using wireless technology
to follow the walking path of the individual.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
present invention showing an individual walking motorized luggage
using wire tether technology to follow the walking path of the
individual.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of an exemplary motorized luggage
with one set of wheels designed for steering and another set of
wheels designed to provide propulsion means.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a side view taken from FIG. 4 showing the set of
wheels designed for steering.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the propulsion means
including a battery power supply, a drive motor, optional gearing,
one or more drive wheels and a microprocessor printed circuit
board;
[0014] FIG. 7 is an exemplary electrical circuitry and programmable
microprocessor printed circuit board used with the present
invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0015] Generally, as defined herein;
[0016] The term "luggage" refers to is any number of bags, cases
and containers which hold a traveler's articles during transit. The
modern traveler can be expected to have packages containing
clothing, toiletries, small possessions, trip necessities, and on
the return-trip, souvenirs. The term "baggage" can be synonymous
with "luggage".
[0017] The term "luggage container" refers to a suitcase or similar
case that is substantially solid form device with wheels or without
wheels for containing clothing, toiletries, small possessions, trip
necessities, and on the return-trip, souvenirs.
[0018] A luggage bag refers to a substantially flexible device for
containing clothing, toiletries, small possessions, trip
necessities, and on the return-trip, souvenirs. These luggage bags
are almost exclusively soft side, are well suited to casual travel,
with very little organization inside and can be worn on the
shoulder. Wheeled models with extending handles have become popular
in recent years.
[0019] A luggage rack apparatus refers to a device that a
traditional luggage container, suitcase or luggage bag can be
placed upon or on and used for general transportation means.
[0020] A typical cell phone, smart phones, or similar apparatus
includes all remote cellular phones, mobile phones, PDAs, tablets
(e.g. refers to all current and future variants, revisions and
generations of the Apple IPAD, Samsung Galaxy, HP, Acer, Microsoft,
Nook, Google Nexus, Sony, Kindle and all future tablets
manufactured by these and other manufactures, Apple IPOD Touch,
Bluetooth timepiece or fob watches and other similar apparatus with
WIFI and Bluetooth wireless capability.
[0021] The terms propulsion refers to forward or reverse motions,
thrust, momentum, impetus or driving force.
[0022] Now referring to FIG. 1, which is a perspective view of an
exemplary environment 16 where individuals are negotiating through
hallways 14 with corners 26 and one individual 20 is walking with
his/her motorized luggage 10 that is following the path of the
individual 20 using wireless technology 12. The exemplary
environment 16 generally could be an airport, rail station, boat
station or other general public transportation but could also
consist of residential or commercial facilities. Such exemplary
environment 16, as shown, has various hallways 14 with a corner
intersects two individual hallways 14. The Figure shows a walking
pathway 30 with various positions 32 and 34. Also shown in this
Figure are other individuals 22a, 22b walking or present within the
exemplary environment 16 with the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an individual 20 walking
with the present invention motorized luggage 10 having a top
mounted handle 11 and using wireless technology 12 to follow the
walking path of the individual 20. On the bottom 24 of the
motorized luggage 10 are one or more steering wheels 40 and one or
more propulsion wheels 42. In this situation, the one or more
propulsion wheels push the motorized luggage 10 from the posterior
or back position. While the Figure details the one or more steering
wheels 40 in the anterior or front position and the one or more
propulsion 42 in the posterior or back position, it is anticipated
by the Applicants that one or more steering wheels 40 can be in the
posterior or back position and the one or more propulsion 42 in the
anterior or front position. In this situation, the one or more
propulsion wheels would pull the motorized luggage 10 from the
anterior or from position. Furthermore, it is Anticipated by the
Applicant the one or more steering wheels 40 can be physically
associated with or incorporated within the one or more propulsion
wheels 42 located in either the anterior/front position or in the
posterior/back position. In this situation, one or more free wheels
will be utilized to provide stabilization. While FIG. 2 shows the
motorized technology associated with luggage, it is anticipated by
the Applicants that this technology can be also utilized with baby
carriages, buggies, or trolleys, shopping carts, golf bags and
caddies, laundry carts, wheelbarrows, wagons, vacuum cleaners or
other apparatus that individuals pull or push. While FIG. 2 also
shows the motorized luggage apparatus 10 following an individual
20, it is also anticipated that the motorized luggage apparatus 10
can be designed to be located to maintain its positioned in front
of the individual 20 or maintain its positioned on the left or
right side of the individual 20. The advantages of having the
motorized luggage positioned in front or at the side of the
individual 20 is that the individual 20 can maintain visual contact
with the motorized luggage apparatus 10.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
present invention motorized luggage 23 has a handle 11 and showing
an individual 21 walking with the present invention motorized
luggage 23 using wire tether technology 18 to follow the walking
path of the individual 21. On the bottom 24 of the motorized
luggage 10 are one or more steering wheels 36 and one or more
propulsion wheels 38. In this situation, the one or more propulsion
wheels push the motorized luggage 23 from the posterior or back
position. While this Figure details the one or more steering wheels
36 in the anterior or front position and the one or more propulsion
38 in the posterior or back position, it is anticipated by the
Applicants that one or more steering wheels 36 can be in the
posterior or back position and the one or more propulsion 38 in the
anterior or front position. In this situation, the one or more
propulsion wheels would pull the motorized luggage 10 from the
anterior or from position. Furthermore, it is Anticipated by the
Applicant the one or more steering wheels 36 can be physically
associated with or incorporated within the one or more propulsion
wheels 38 located in either the anterior/front position or in the
posterior/back position. In this situation, one or more free wheels
will be utilized to provide stabilization. No particularly shown is
preferably four way switching technology provides a means to
inputting instructions that is in close proximity to the junction
between the tether which attaches to the motorized luggage 23. For
example, when the individual turns left and moves the tether to the
left a switch can be engaged to rotate the one or more steering
wheels 36 to turn left. And then when the tether is centered, the
switch is turn off and the wheels return to the center straight
position. Similarly when the individual turns right and moves the
tether to the right a switch can be engaged to rotate the one or
more steering wheels 36 to turn right. And then when the tether is
centered, the switch is turn off and the wheels return to the
center straight position. Also, to remain in a relatively fixed
distance from the individual, when the tether move up (as it get
closer to the individual), the switching mechanism engages in such
a way that motor is instructed to reduce its rate of forward motion
(slow down). And then when the tether is centered, the motor
returns to the original forward motion. When the tether moves down
(as it gets farther from the individual), the switching mechanism
engages in such a way that motor is instructed to increase its rate
of forward motion (speed up). And then when the tether is centered,
the motor returns to the original forward motion. The 4 way
switching mechanism could also be similar to the toggle controls
used in remote small-car technology. It is also anticipated by the
Applicant that the various switch inputs, e.g. the frequency and
duration of needs to increase the forward motion, can continually
be analyzed by a programmable microprocessor or CPU to determine a
forward motion that attain the forward motion of the individual,
Hence, the motorized luggage will have electrical circuitry with a
programmable microprocessor or CPU that communicates with the
steering mechanism and the propulsion mechanism.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of an exemplary motorized luggage
with one set of wheels designed for steering and another set of
wheels designed to provide propulsion means. The motorized luggage
apparatus 10 can be in an upright configuration as shown in FIG. 2
or in a horizontal configuration as shown in FIG. 3. Shown in this
FIG. 4 are left steering wheel 36a, 42a, and a right steering wheel
36b, 42b. Also shown are left propulsion wheels 40a, 38a, and right
propulsion wheels 40b, 38b. Approximately centered between the
propulsions wheels is a motor 46 (preferably electric but could be
powered by other means, e.g. gas or alcohol) and a power pack 60.
The power pack 60 is preferably a rechargeable lithium, cadmium,
alkaline, (see list) or other battery technology. Although not
necessary to the present invention, an in attempt to minimize
weight, the power pack 60 can be designed with the electric motor
46 to provide a reasonable but limited amount that will provide
motorized capability for 30-90 minutes. The motor 46 is connected
to the one or more propulsion wheels 40a, 38a, 40b, 38b but left
shaft 66 and right shaft 68. Also shown is latching mechanism 54
that is designed to allow the motor 46 and power pack 60 to be
removed from the unit to reduce weight, comply with governmental
regulation, provide for convenient charging, or for other purposes.
It is also anticipated that the motor can be located in various
locations and coupled to the propulsion wheels using standard
technology. It is also anticipated by the one or more steering
wheels, one or more propulsion wheels, the motor and associated
components, power pack, electrical circuitry can be engaged or
attached to a platform that many types of non-motorized luggage can
be placed on the platform for wireless motorized operation.
Furthermore, electrical stepping motors or motorized wheels can be
utilized with the present invention which would alleviate the need
for a separate motor 46 and axles 44a and 44b. In addition, the
Applicant anticipates that the propulsion system can be other than
wheels, such a track system analogous to those used on
snowmobiles.
[0026] FIG. 5 is a side view taken from FIG. 4 showing the one or
more wheels designed for steering. The steering wheel(s) 40 can be
controlled by a steering mechanism or can be free-wheeling when the
propulsion wheels 42a and 42b are used for steering.
[0027] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the propulsion means
including a battery power supply 60, a drive motor 46, optional
gearing 64, one or more drive wheels 42 and a microprocessor
printed circuit board 62. As described, the propulsion wheels can
be stepping type or motor wheels and furthermore, the propulsion
wheels can be utilized for steering guidance by utilizing the
electrical circuitry and programmable microprocessor to control the
rotational speed of each wheel, such that if on wheel is control to
rotate faster than another wheel it will compel the apparatus to
turn (e.g. a rear mounted right wheel rotating faster will turn the
apparatus to the left and a rear mounted left wheel rotating faster
will turn the apparatus to the right. Conversely, if a right front
mounted wheel (front wheel drive) rotates faster, the apparatus
will turn to the right and if a left front mounted wheel (front
wheel drive) rotates faster, the apparatus will turn to the
left.
[0028] FIG. 7 shows is an exemplary electrical circuitry and
programmable microprocessor printed circuit board used with the
present invention. The microprocessor 84 that processes the
information sensors and uses internal instructions to control the
information projected on the optional display 80 and for processing
alarm states. In addition, the microprocessor can signal visually
or auditory various information, such as battery strength, wireless
disconnection or interference between apparatus and user,
malfunction states, etc. The microprocessor can include an EEPROM
or any type of memory section that allows for specific programming
to be incorporated as processing instructions, Furthermore, the
microprocessor may have the capability to convert analog signals
into digital information for decoding and processing. An example of
a microprocessor that could be used for the CPU or microprocessor
is the PIC16F876 28-pin 8-Bit CMOS FLASH micro-controllers
manufactured by Microchip Technology, Inc. This particular
microprocessor has a 128K EEPROM Data memory bank for flash memory
of specific instructions and utilizes a 35-word instruction set. It
also has five 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Inputs that can provide the
means for converting the information. Other Microchip alternatives
could be the PIC18FXXX series of microprocessors. Another example
of a microprocessor that could be used for the CPU or
microprocessor is the MSP430 16 bit Ultra Low processor from Texas
Instruments in Dallas, Tex. The MSP430 has 1 KB RAM, 32K Flash, and
a 128 segment LCD drive. There are many other variants or other
microprocessors, whether commercially marketed or privately
fabricated, that can be used with the present invention.
Operational Technology
[0029] There are two important characteristics that the motorized
luggage apparatus 10 has, 1) to maintain alignment with the
individual 20, and 2) to maintain a desired distance with the
individual 20. The following is a discussion of the technology that
can be incorporated into the motorized luggage apparatus 10 to
provide these characteristics. Another important characteristic of
the present invention is to alert an individual when de-coupling of
the motorized luggage apparatus 10 and the individual has
occurred.
[0030] GPS Technology
[0031] It is anticipated that GPS technology could be used to
provide guidance for the wireless Motorized Luggage or Luggage
Platform. GPS is a technology that has certain characteristics. For
example, circular error probable (CEP): The accuracy expressed
using this term is based on the points that fall within a circle,
that is, you get only the horizontal accuracy of the GPS. This is
because, out of the total points used to compute the accuracy of
the handheld GPS, half of the data-points fall outside the circle
centered round the truth (estimated accuracy of the GPS
device).
[0032] For example, the currently accuracy of GPS is 2 meters CEP,
it means that there is 50 percent probability that the measurement
lies inside the circle of 2 meters, On the other hand, it also
means that there is 50 percent probability that the measurement
lies outside the circle with 2 meter radius.
[0033] 95 Percent Confidence: The accuracy of GPS is also mentioned
in 95th percentile. For example, if the ad says that the accuracy
of the GPS is accurate to 10 meters, you can be sure that accuracy
of the GPS may contain an error of 10 meter circle and a 5 percent
probability of the error being greater than 10 meters.
[0034] It is essential to understand that there is no such thing as
perfect accuracy of GPS. Each measurement, be it for GPS or
anything else, has some probability of error. Also, please note
that both CEP and 95 percentile are "estimated" and not
"guaranteed" error. Hence, the accuracy of GPS as mentioned in the
ads by GPS vendors may or may not be precise, taking into account,
the above mentioned error possibilities. Try to go for a handheld
whose error possibilities are minimum based on above
explanations.
[0035] The accuracy can be expressed in a manner that describes the
50th percentile (e.g. half the data is better than the stated
value, half the data is worse than the stated value).
Alternatively, the accuracy may be described at the 95th percentile
(95 percent of the data is better than the specification). The list
below states the more common terms used to describe GPS
accuracy:
[0036] CEP (Circular Error Probable)--Values stated as CEP apply to
horizontal accuracy only. Half of the data points fall within a
circle of this radius centered on truth, half lie outside this
circle. (As a nifty approximation, you may multiply CEP by 2.5 to
obtain 2dRMS.)
[0037] SEP (Spherical Error Probable)--Applies to combined
horizontal and vertical accuracy. Half of the data points fall
within a sphere of this radius centered on truth, half lie out side
this sphere.
[0038] 1dRMS (or RMS)--Approximately 68 percent of the data points
occur within this distance of truth. It should be expressed clearly
whether the accuracy value refers only to horizontal or to both
horizontal and vertical. (Note that 1dRMS can be double or tripled
to obtain 2dRMS or 3dRMS.)
[0039] 2dRMS--Approximately 95 percent of the data points occur
with this distance of truth. It should be expressed clearly whether
the accuracy value refers only to horizontal or to both horizontal
and vertical.
[0040] 3dRMS--Approximately 99.7 percent of the data points occur
with this distance of truth. It should be expressed clearly whether
the accuracy value refers only to horizontal or to both horizontal
and vertical.
[0041] The vast majority of GPS-based data collection systems for
GIS utilize the civilian C/A code (as opposed to the military P
code). The U.S. military runs a program that almost always degrades
this GPS C/A code. This governmental degradation of the GPS signal
(known as Selective Availability, or S/A) has an equal impact on
all C/A code GPS receivers. The specified accuracy of positions
under the influence of S/A is that the horizontal coordinates will
be within 100 meters of truth 95 percent of the time. This
specification will hold true regardless of the manufacturer or
model of C/A code receiver. It is true that the effects of S/A can
be removed by using a process known as differential correction.
However, without the benefit of differential correction all C/A
code receivers are essentially the same accuracy, less than 100
meters 95 percent of the time. A less common, but very misleading,
tactic is to advertise or display the hypothetical accuracy of the
GPS receiver as if there were no S/A in effect. Some systems will
display such a hypothetical accuracy even when S/A is an full
force. When researching accuracy claims, compare the accuracy after
differential correction this is the only meaningful accuracy
value.
[0042] To operate properly a GPS chip or receiver would have to be
located in the luggage and a GPS chip receiver located with the
individual and then software would have to be communicated between
the luggage and the individual. The software would compare the two
locations to guide and determine the distance between the two GPS
receivers to determine the speed.
[0043] Sensor Technology
[0044] Various sensor technology can be used for guidance of the
wireless Motorized Luggage or Luggage Platform. Two or more sensors
can be placed at a strategic location on the wireless Motorized
Luggage or Luggage Platform that communicates with another sensor
that is attached to the individual who desires the wireless
Motorized Luggage or Luggage Platform to follow the individual.
Such technology includes but is not limited to, ultrasonic waves,
magnetic wave technology, and laser technology, which are generated
from the sensor. Ultrasonic, magnetic and laser waves from the
plurality of sensor can be focused to provide guidance for the
wireless Motorized Luggage or Luggage Platform and measuring the
timing of the ultrasonic, magnetic or laser waves can provide
distance information. Software with a programmable microprocessor
can be incorporate the ultrasonic, magnetic or laser sensors to
adjust and calibrate the guidance and distance parameters.
[0045] It is also anticipated that the wireless technology use to
communication use wireless protocols that can be utilized with the
present invention include, but are not limited to, the IEEE
802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n modulation
techniques. Another example of the wireless protocols that can be
utilized with the present invention is the Bluetooth IEE 802.15.1
and ZigBee and/or Z-wave with uses the IEE 802.15.4 modulation
technology. Applicants recognize that there are numerous wireless
protocols that have been developed that, although not specifically
listed, could be utilized with the present invention for data
transfer purposes. It is also anticipated that the wireless
technology use to communication use wireless protocols that can be
utilized with the present invention include, but are not limited
to, the IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n
modulation techniques. Another example of the wireless protocols
that can be utilized with the present invention is the ZigBee,
Z-wave and IEE 802.15.4 modulation technology. Applicants recognize
that there are numerous wireless protocols that have been developed
that, although not specifically listed, could be utilized with the
present invention for data transfer purposes. The wireless
technology can use radio-frequency, Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee,
optical or other wireless technology for communicating between the
motorized luggage and the individual. Examples of Bluetooth modules
(using the 2.4 GHz band as WiFi) that can be added to the present
invention are the RN-41 Bluetooth modules available from Roving
Networks in Los Gatos, Calif., the KC-41, KC 11.4, KC-5100, KC-216
or KC-225 data serial modules from KC Wireless in Tempe Ariz.,
and/or the BT-21 module from Amp'ed RF wireless solutions in San
Jose, Calif. Examples of wireless protocols that can be utilized
with the present invention include, but are not limited to, the
IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n
modulation techniques. Applicants recognize that there are numerous
wireless protocols that have been developed that, although not
specifically listed, could be utilized with the present invention
for data transfer purposes.
[0046] ISM bands defined by the ITU-R are:
TABLE-US-00001 Frequency range Center frequency [Hz] [Hz]
Availability 6.765-6.795 MHz 6.780 MHz Subject to local acceptance
13.553-13.567 MHz 13.560 MHz 26.957-27.283 MHz 27.120 MHz
40.66-40.70 MHz 40.68 MHz 433.05-434.79 MHz 433.92 MHz Region 1
only 902-928 MHz 915 MHz Region 2 only 2.400-2.500 GHz 2.450 GHz
5.725-5.875 GHz 5.800 GHz 24-24.25 GHz 24.125 GHz 61-61.5 GHz 61.25
GHz Subject to local acceptance 122-123 GHz 122.5 GHz Subject to
local acceptance 244-246 GHz 245 GHz Subject to local
acceptance
[0047] While currently the 430 MHz and 900 MHz frequencies are
commonly used in the US, it is anticipated by the Applicants that
the other frequencies could be used for signal and data
transfers.
[0048] Bluetooth, standardized as IEEE 802.15.1, is a wireless
technology standard for exchanging data over short distances (using
short-wavelength radio transmissions in the ISM band from 2400-2480
MHz) from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks
(PANs) with high levels of security. Zigbee aims at automation
whereas Bluetooth aims at connectivity of mobile devices in close
proximity. Zigbee uses low data rates, low power consumption on
small packet devices while blue tooth uses higher data rates,
higher power consumption on large packet devices. Zigbee networks
support longer range devices and more in number compared to
Bluetooth networks whose range is small. Given Zigbee's almost
instant network join times (30 milliseconds) it is more suitable
for critical applications while Bluetooth's longer join time
detrimental (3 seconds).
[0049] The present invention motorized luggage can include three or
more receivers that can identify and triangulate different signals
coming from the users smart or mobile phone, tablet, or watch that
incorporates Bluetooth technology specialized Bluetooth device.
[0050] The coordinates and distance to a point can be found by
calculating the length of one side of a triangle, given
measurements of angles and sides of the triangle formed by that
point and two other known reference points.
[0051] The following formulas apply in flat or Euclidean
geometry.
l = d tan .alpha. + d tan .beta. ##EQU00001## Therefore
##EQU00001.2## d = l / ( 1 tan .alpha. + 1 tan .beta. )
##EQU00001.3##
[0052] Using the trigonometric identities tan .alpha.=sin
.alpha./cos .alpha. and sin (.alpha.+.beta.)=sin .alpha. cos
.beta.+cos .alpha. sin .beta., this is equivalent to:
d = l sin .alpha. sin .beta. sin ( .alpha. + .beta. )
##EQU00002##
[0053] From this, it is easy to determine the distance of the
unknown point from either an observation point, and its north/south
and east/west offsets from the observation point, and therefore its
full coordinates.
[0054] A microcontroller is located on the present invention
motorized luggage then interprets the Bluetooth signals from the
smart phone's, tablet, watch with Bluetooth wireless capability or
specialized Bluetooth device that is carried by an individual and
calculates the position of the luggage or suitcase in relation to
the individual, The same microcontroller also operates one or more
wheels of a continuous single or multiple caterpillar track system
which moves the suitcase around, following the owner at a constant
distance. If the Bluetooth signal is lost, the user is alerted by a
phone, tablet, or watch vibration or audio annunciation and the
suitcase automatically stops itself.
[0055] In addition, two or more wireless sensors, such as
ultrasonic or Doppler sensors can be used with the present
invention. Using ultra transceiver sensors (e.g. 40,000 Hz sensors)
can be used to ping a receiving sensor. A transceiver sensor can be
on the user or individual and the two or more receiving sensors can
be on the luggage. The transceiver and receiver sensors need to
measure the error between transceiver sensors and the receiving
sensors and make adjustments for guidance. One issue that should be
used is to scale down the error measurements so that the luggage
does not wander back and forth. Another issue would be the
determine slope of the error measurements as this would be useful
in controlling the speed.
[0056] Users can program the bags so that they follow each other or
even be passed on to follow a member of airport staff, for
example.
Camera Following Object Technology
[0057] When using camera following object technology a sensor is
position in a position such it can focus on a particular item of
the individual to localizing and distance monitoring. It is
anticipated that various items can be utilized by the present
invention. An example that can be used is a color coded wheel disc
have a series of pie section provide a unique color pattern. This
embodiment of the device features an RGB camera, depth sensor, an
audio means and running proprietary software, which provide 3D
motion capture capabilities.
[0058] The depth sensor consists of an infrared laser projector
combined with a monochrome CMOS sensor, which captures video data.
The sensing range of the depth sensor is adjustable. This infrared
image shows the laser grid for the present invention uses to
calculate depth. The depth map is visualized here using color
gradients from white (near) to blue (far).
[0059] It is anticipated by the Applicants that the present
invention sensor outputs video at a frame rate in the range of
10-60 Hz. The RGB video stream could employ 8-bit VGA resolution
(640.times.480 pixels) with a Bayer color filter, while the
monochrome depth sensing video stream is in VGA resolution
(640.times.480 pixels), which provides sufficient level of
sensitivity. The present invention sensor should have a practical
ranging limit of 0.2-0.5 m (3.9-11 ft) distance when used with the
programmable software. The area required is roughly 6 m.sup.2,
although the sensor can maintain tracking through an extended range
of approximately 0.7-6 m (2.3-20 ft). The sensor has an angular
field of view of 57.degree. horizontally and 43.degree. vertically,
while the motorized pivot is capable of tilting the sensor up to
27.degree. either up or down. The horizontal field of the camera
sensor at the minimum viewing distance of .about.0.8 in (2.6 ft) is
therefore .about.87 cm (34 in), and the vertical field is .about.63
cm (25 in), resulting in a resolution of just over 1.3 mm (0.051
in) per pixel.
[0060] It is also anticipate the wireless signals can used
encrypted format to securely provide wireless transfer in a
confidential format, integrity technology to ensures that the
wireless signal ensures that transferred, uploaded properly or
authentication downloaded wireless signal is communicated to an
intended device or person.
* * * * *