U.S. patent application number 14/174369 was filed with the patent office on 2015-08-06 for methods and apparatus for the retention of a personal electronics device within a physical interaction device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Physical Apps, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Physical Apps, LLC. Invention is credited to Greg Allison, Robert C. Houvener.
Application Number | 20150217922 14/174369 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53754205 |
Filed Date | 2015-08-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150217922 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Houvener; Robert C. ; et
al. |
August 6, 2015 |
METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THE RETENTION OF A PERSONAL ELECTRONICS
DEVICE WITHIN A PHYSICAL INTERACTION DEVICE
Abstract
A retention apparatus configured to retain a personal electronic
device within a physical interaction device may include one or more
retention clips flexibly secured within an interior receptacle of
the physical interaction device such that the one or more clips
deflect as the personal electronic device is inserted into the
interior receptacle and a lip of each of the one or more clips
engages a surface of the personal electronic device upon full
insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior
receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal electronic
device within the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one
or more retention clips by a user to release the personal
electronic device from the interior receptacle.
Inventors: |
Houvener; Robert C.;
(Hollis, NH) ; Allison; Greg; (Orefield,
PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Physical Apps, LLC |
Hollis |
NH |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Physical Apps, LLC
Hollis
NH
|
Family ID: |
53754205 |
Appl. No.: |
14/174369 |
Filed: |
February 6, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/592 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2071/0625 20130101;
A63B 2225/50 20130101; H04B 1/3888 20130101; A63B 41/00 20130101;
A63B 71/0669 20130101; A63B 2071/063 20130101; G06F 2200/1633
20130101; A63B 2220/806 20130101; A45C 11/00 20130101; A63B
2220/808 20130101; A45C 2011/002 20130101; A63B 2225/685 20130101;
A63B 2220/30 20130101; A63B 2220/44 20130101; A63B 2220/12
20130101; A63B 2220/20 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/02 20060101
B65D081/02 |
Claims
1. A physical interaction device comprising: a body with an
interior receptacle sized and shaped to removably receive a
personal electronic device therewithin such that the personal
electronic device is fully encased within the body; and a retention
apparatus to releasably retain the personal electronic device
within the interior receptacle, wherein the retention apparatus
comprises one or more retention clips flexibly secured within the
interior receptacle such that the one or more clips deflect as the
personal electronic device is inserted into the interior
receptacle, wherein each of the one or more retention clips
comprises a lip to engage a surface of the personal electronic
device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into
the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal
electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation
of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the
personal electronic device from the interior receptacle.
2. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the physical
interaction device is sized and shaped to (i) substantially enclose
and protect the personal electronic device within the interior
receptacle during physical activity comprising at least one of
rolling the device, throwing the device, kicking the device, and
striking the device against another object, and (ii) enable
interaction with the personal electronic device while the personal
electronic device is substantially enclosed within the device.
3. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the body
comprises a window/opening for viewing of the personal electronic
device when retained within the interior receptacle.
4. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the one or
more retention clips comprise two retention clips configured to
releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical
interaction device.
5. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein each of the
one or more retention clips comprise a cantilever extension
configured to bias the clip to securely retain the personal
electronic device within the interior receptacle upon full
insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior
receptacle.
6. The physical interaction device of claim 5, wherein each of the
one or more retention clips is configured to at least one of flex
or rotate as the personal electronic device is inserted into the
receptacle.
7. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the
retention apparatus is configured to be releasably secured in a
cavity in the physical interaction device.
8. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein: the
physical interaction device includes one or more protrusions inside
the receptacle, and the one or more retention clips are sized and
shaped to press the personal electronic device against the one or
more protrusions to releasably secure the personal electronic
device to the physical interaction device upon full insertion of
the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle.
9. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the physical
interaction device is configured to be used as a at least one of
weight training exercise equipment, combat-training exercise
equipment, balance and coordination training exercise equipment,
game equipment, or sports game equipment.
10. The physical interaction device of claim 1, wherein the
personal electronic device is a cellular phone.
11. A retention apparatus to releasably retain a personal
electronic device within a physical interaction device, the
retention apparatus comprising: one or more retention clips
configured to be flexibly secured within an interior receptacle of
a physical interaction device sized and shaped to removably receive
a personal electronic device therewithin such that the personal
electronic device is fully encased within the physical interaction
device, wherein the one or more clips deflect as a personal
electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle, wherein
each of the one or more retention clips comprises a lip to engage a
surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of
the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle,
thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within
the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more
retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device
from the interior receptacle.
12. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the physical
interaction device is sized and shaped to (i) substantially enclose
and protect the personal electronic device within the interior
receptacle during physical activity comprising at least one of
rolling the device, throwing the device, kicking the device, and
striking the device against another object, and (ii) enable
interaction with the personal electronic device while the personal
electronic device is substantially enclosed within the device.
13. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the physical
interaction device comprises a housing with a window/opening for
viewing of the personal electronic device when retained within the
interior receptacle.
14. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the one or more
retention clips comprise two retention clips configured to
releasably secure the personal electronic device to the physical
interaction device.
15. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein each of the one or
more retention clips comprise a cantilever extension configured to
bias the clip to securely retain the personal electronic device
within the interior receptacle upon full insertion of the personal
electronic device into the interior receptacle.
16. The retention apparatus of claim 15, wherein each of the one or
more retention clips is configured to at least one of flex or
rotate as the personal electronic device is inserted into the
receptacle.
17. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the retention
apparatus is configured to be releasably secured in a cavity in the
physical interaction device.
18. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein: the physical
interaction device includes one or more protrusions inside the
receptacle, and the one or more retention clips are sized and
shaped to press the personal electronic device against the one or
more protrusions to releasably secure the personal electronic
device to the physical interaction device upon full insertion of
the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle.
19. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the physical
interaction device is configured to be used as a at least one of
weight training exercise equipment, combat-training exercise
equipment, balance and coordination training exercise equipment,
game equipment, or sports game equipment.
20. The retention apparatus of claim 11, wherein the personal
electronic device is a cellular phone.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Examples of personal electronic devices include smart
phones, multi-media players, portable music players, digital
cameras, handheld gaming systems, and other devices for
communication and entertainment. Some personal electronic devices
are capable of wirelessly connecting to a network, for example via
Wi-Fi.TM. or a cellular carrier. Personal electronic devices may
include one or more features such as voice recognition, voice based
control, motion sensing, location sensing, one or more microphones,
one or more speakers, one or more video and/or audio outputs, and
input mechanisms such as QWERTY keyboard controls, buttons, track
balls, and touch screen control elements.
[0002] Various case technology has been developed to protect
personal electronic devices from damage, for example due to being
dropped, scratched, or exposed to conditions that could harm the
internal circuitry. Docking stations and other apparatus for
releasably retaining personal electronics have also been developed,
for example to enable power charging of the personal electronic
device or to connect the personal electronic device to peripheral
technology, such as audio speakers.
SUMMARY
[0003] In one aspect, the present disclosure describes a physical
interaction device that includes retention apparatus for releasably
connecting a personal electronic device to the exterior shell of
the physical interaction device. The physical interaction device
may include at least one of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam,
a foamed resin, and an inflatable bladder. The retention apparatus
may involve one or more methods of attachment, the one or more
methods of attachment performing in a primary, secondary or other
capacity in retaining or securing the personal electronic device in
place while the physical interaction device is in use. The
retention apparatus may include one or more clips that secure an
electronic device to the physical interaction device.
[0004] The retention apparatus of the physical interaction device
may further be configured to protect one or more of a user
interacting with the physical interaction device and the
surroundings in which the physical interaction device is being used
(e.g., furniture, personal belongings, bystanders, etc.) during
physical activity by reducing the probability that the personal
electronic device will be ejected from the physical interaction
device. The physical interaction device may include at least one of
a disk, weight training exercise equipment, combat-training
exercise equipment, balance and coordination training exercise
equipment, or sports game equipment.
[0005] The disclosed technology, in certain embodiments, includes a
physical interaction device with a body that has an interior
receptacle sized and shaped to removably receive a personal
electronic device therewithin such that the personal electronic
device is fully encased within the body. The physical interaction
device may include a retention apparatus to releasably retain the
personal electronic device within the interior receptacle. The
retention apparatus may include one or more retention clips
flexibly secured within the interior receptacle such that the one
or more clips deflect as the personal electronic device is inserted
into the interior receptacle. Each of the one or more retention
clips may include a lip to engage a surface of the personal
electronic device upon full insertion of the personal electronic
device into the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the
personal electronic device within the interior receptacle until
manipulation of the one or more retention clips by a user to
release the personal electronic device from the interior
receptacle.
[0006] The physical interaction device, in certain embodiments, is
sized and shaped to (i) substantially enclose and protect the
personal electronic device within the interior receptacle during
physical activity comprising at least one of rolling the device,
throwing the device, kicking the device, and striking the device
against another object, and (ii) enable interaction with the
personal electronic device while the personal electronic device is
substantially enclosed within the device. The body of the physical
interaction device may include a window/opening for viewing of the
personal electronic device when retained within the interior
receptacle.
[0007] The one or more retention clips comprise two retention clips
configured to releasably secure the personal electronic device to
the physical interaction device. Each of the one or more retention
clips may include a cantilever extension configured to bias the
clip to securely retain the personal electronic device within the
interior receptacle upon full insertion of the personal electronic
device into the interior receptacle. Each of the one or more
retention clips may be configured to at least one of flex or rotate
as the personal electronic device is inserted into the receptacle.
The retention apparatus may be configured to be releasably secured
in a cavity in the physical interaction device.
[0008] In certain embodiments, the physical interaction device
includes one or more protrusions inside the receptacle. The one or
more retention clips may be sized and shaped to press the personal
electronic device against the one or more protrusions to releasably
secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction
device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into
the interior receptacle.
[0009] In certain embodiments, the physical interaction device is
configured to be used as a at least one of weight training exercise
equipment, combat-training exercise equipment, balance and
coordination training exercise equipment, game equipment, or sports
game equipment. In certain embodiments, the personal electronic
device is a cellular phone.
[0010] The retention apparatus may be configured in one or more
pieces and may be releasably attached to the personal electronic
device in one or more places. The physical interaction device may
include an interior receptacle for receiving the personal
electronic device (plus, optionally, at least a portion of the
retention apparatus). The exterior shell of the physical
interaction device may include a first portion and a second
portion, the first portion closing against the second portion to
substantially enclose the personal electronic device, the exterior
shell being configured to receive the personal electronic device
within the personal electronic device receptacle when the first
portion is at least partly separated from the second portion. The
exterior shell may include a number of perforations. The exterior
shell may include a window area configured to provide visual access
to a portion of a screen area of the personal electronic device
when the personal electronic device is substantially enclosed
within the physical interaction device. The exterior shell may
define a volume at least three times as large as a volume of the
personal electronic device.
[0011] The disclosed technology, in certain embodiments, includes a
retention apparatus to releasably retain a personal electronic
device within a physical interaction device. The retention
apparatus may include one or more retention clips configured to be
flexibly secured within an interior receptacle of a physical
interaction device sized and shaped to removably receive a personal
electronic device therewithin such that the personal electronic
device is fully encased within the physical interaction device. In
certain embodiments, the one or more clips deflect as a personal
electronic device is inserted into the interior receptacle. Each of
the one or more retention clips may include a lip to engage a
surface of the personal electronic device upon full insertion of
the personal electronic device into the interior receptacle,
thereby securely retaining the personal electronic device within
the interior receptacle until manipulation of the one or more
retention clips by a user to release the personal electronic device
from the interior receptacle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0012] The foregoing and other objects, aspects, features, and
advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent and
better understood by referring to the following description taken
in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1A is a diagram of an example physical interaction
device for retaining a personal electronic device physical
interaction device therein;
[0014] FIG. 1B is a diagram of an example physical interaction
device with a retention apparatus for retaining a personal
electronic device within the physical interaction device;
[0015] FIGS. 2A through 2J are diagrams of an example retention
apparatus for retaining a personal electronic device within a
physical interaction device;
[0016] FIG. 3 are diagrams illustrating an example physical
interaction device equipped with a retention apparatus;
[0017] FIGS. 4A through 4C illustrate example activities involving
a personal electronic device releasably retained within a physical
interaction device;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of an example method for assembling
and using a retention assembly;
[0019] FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an exemplary cloud computing
environment and
[0020] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a computing device and a mobile
computing device.
[0021] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will
become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below
when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like
reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In
the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical,
functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] In some implementations, the present disclosure may be
directed towards methods and apparatus for retaining a personal
electronic device in a physical interaction device. Related
application Ser. No. 13/348,433, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled
"Physical Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method
for Use", Ser. No. 13/348,434, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled
"Physical Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method
for Use", and Ser. No. 14/103,996, filed on Dec. 12, 2013, and
titled "Methods and Apparatus for the Retention of a Personal
Electronic Device within a Physical Interaction Device" are each
hereby incorporated by reference. Although the related applications
include various methods and apparatus for physically retaining a
personal electronics device, the apparatus and methods described
herein may be used in lieu of or in addition to these methods and
apparatus, for example in order to provide an additional safety
mechanism in certain usage scenarios, such as when very aggressive
movement of the physical interaction device may be anticipated,
especially when utilized by users with significant physical
strength. As such, the present disclosure provides robust primary,
secondary and/or other methods and apparatus for retaining a
personal electronic device within a physical interaction device,
thereby reducing the probability of damage to the personal
electronic device, users or surroundings.
[0023] In some implementations, a physical interaction device
provides a physically protective, light weight and cost-effective
covering or encasement for a personal electronic device that may
enable use of an off-the-shelf personal electronic device as a game
play and learning system. In some implementations, a physical
interaction device includes a retention apparatus for retaining a
personal electronic device in a stowed position within the physical
interaction device. For example, in the event that a user propels a
physical interaction device containing a personal electronic
device, causing the physical interaction device to strike another
object, the retention apparatus prevents the personal electronic
device from separating from the physical interaction device. In
some implementations, the retention apparatus is one or more clips
that hold the personal electronic device securely within the
physical interaction device. For example, the retention apparatus
may include two clips, each of which engage a phone when it is
inserted into an opening in the physical interaction device for
receiving a personal electronic device. The clip(s) may be
removable by a user or may be integrated into the physical
interaction device.
[0024] In some implementations, a physical interaction device
includes a primary retention apparatus and a second retention
apparatus. For example, in the event that a user propels a physical
interaction device containing a personal electronic device, causing
the physical interaction device to strike another object, a primary
retaining method or apparatus may fail to retain the personal
electronic device in stowed position within the physical
interaction device. The secondary or additional retaining method or
apparatus, in this circumstance, would prevent the personal
electronic device from separating from the physical interaction
device.
[0025] In some implementations, the retention apparatus and
retention assemblies described herein are configured for toolless
installation and removal. For example, a user may install the
retention apparatus by hand without damage or modification to the
physical interaction device and/or the personal electronic device.
The user may then remove and replace the personal electronic device
with ease, for example to accept phone calls, install additional
software applications, or launch additional features of the
personal electronics device. The retention apparatus and
assemblies, for example, may be configured to allow a typical adult
user to release the personal electronic device from the retention
apparatus within a matter of one to three minutes, or in one minute
or less. In other implementations, a tooled or toolless (e.g.,
combination lock) retention lock may be added, for example to
ensure that a small child will not be capable of easily removing
the personal electronic device from the physical interaction device
upon installation.
[0026] The personal electronic device may be retained within the
physical interaction device, in some implementations, using
retention apparatus for releasably connecting the personal
electronic device to the physical interaction device or to a
protective enclosure thereof. The physical interaction device
and/or protective encasement, in some implementations, may be
constructed of any material capable of absorbing physical shock,
thereby protecting the personal electronic device. In some
implementations, the physical interaction device may additionally
absorb physical shock in a manner that protects users interacting
with the physical interaction device as well as the surroundings.
In some examples, construction materials of the physical
interaction device may include closed cell foams, open cell coated
foams, foamed resin, and/or inflatable chambers. A protective
chamber region of the physical interaction device, in some
implementations, may protect the device from environment damage
(e.g., sand, dust, water, snow, etc.), for example by providing a
waterproof seal.
[0027] In some implementations, retaining the personal electronic
device within the physical interaction device involves one or more
methods of attachment, the one or more methods of attachment
providing a primary, secondary or other level of functionality in
retaining or securing the personal electronic device in place while
a user is interacting with the physical interaction device. The
retention apparatus of the physical interaction device may further
be configured to protect one or more of a user interacting with the
physical interaction device and a surroundings of the physical
interaction device during physical activity by reducing the
probability that the personal electronic device will be ejected
from the physical interaction device. The retention apparatus, in
some implementations, is configured in one or more pieces. The
retention apparatus, in some implementations, is configured to be
releasably attached to the personal electronic device in one or
more places. The retention apparatus, in some examples, may include
at least one of one or more clips, rubber, hook and loop material
(such as Velcro.RTM.), synthetic elastomers and non-elastomers,
natural materials such as leathers, fibers as commonly used in
ropes, metals, magnetic materials and advanced synthetic fibers
such as carbon fibers.
[0028] In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be
encased in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device
to provide protection to the personal electronic device during
physical gaming (e.g., where the personal electronic device may be
moved about at high velocity, thrown, or shaken). For example, a
personal electronic device may be encased in a ball-shaped
protective enclosure during a game of media rich "hot potato" where
the ball-shaped physical interaction device is tossed from person
to person until an indication of game end is presented (e.g., alarm
goes off, music stops playing, etc.).
[0029] In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be
encased in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device
to enable a user with physical and/or mental limitations to more
easily or more safely interact with the personal electronic device.
In some implementations, the protective enclosure may be designed
for interaction with small children, elderly persons, those with
forms of physical ailments such as recoveries from bone or muscle
injuries, those with long term physical ailments such as multiple
sclerosis etc, and those with forms of dementia.
[0030] In some implementations, a patient may utilize a personal
electronic device enclosed in a protective enclosure of a physical
interaction device to perform rehabilitating work while data
regarding progress and/or results of rehabilitative tasks
accomplished via the personal electronic device may be recorded and
utilized by the user and/or those assisting the user in their
rehabilitative activities. In a particular example, a
rehabilitative professional may access the data (e.g., via a user
interface such as a web page) to review activities that a patient
performed. Data collected during interaction with a personal
electronic device encased in a physical interaction device, in some
implementations, may include detailed statistics recorded by one or
more software applications executed in part upon the personal
electronic device.
[0031] In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be
enclosed in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device
to facilitate interaction with the personal electronic device
during physical exercise. In some implementations, the physical
interaction device may be designed as a piece of exercise
equipment, similar to a heavy exercise ball (e.g., medicine ball,
kettle), barbell, dumbbell, liquid or gel-weighted shape, or other
weight training exercise equipment; a boxing glove, heavy bag,
speed bag, standing heavy bag, virtual sparring partner, or other
combat-training exercise equipment; a stability disc, wobble board,
yoga ball, or other balance and coordination training exercise
equipment; or a playground ball, football, basketball, soccer ball,
flying disc, baseball bat, or other sports game equipment or
recreational equipment. In some implementations, software
functioning in part on the personal electronic device may be used
to coach a player during physical exercise or track performance
during an exercise workout. In some examples, sensors such as an
accelerometer, positioning sensor, orientation sensor, global
positioning sensor, gyroscope, light sensor, imaging sensor,
acoustic sensor, microphone, camera, or other external sensing
device may provide data to software functioning in part on the
personal electronic device to determine behaviors (e.g., velocity,
trajectory, rotational speed) of the physical interaction device or
of the user during physical exercise.
[0032] In some implementations, a personal electronic device may be
enclosed in a protective enclosure of a physical interaction device
to facilitate multi-media rich imaginative play. For example, a
personal electronic device may be installed within a physical
interaction device designed as a child's toy. One or more sensors
within or communicating with the personal electronic device, for
example, may provide input to a software application regarding a
child's interactions with the toy. In response to sensed
interactions, in some examples, the software application may output
lights, colors, images, audio, video, vibrations, or other feedback
responsive to the child playing with the toy.
[0033] While a personal electronic device is encased in a physical
interaction device, in some implementations, a user may control the
personal electronic device via voice commands. For example, a voice
recognition component of the personal electronic device may
recognize one or more commands to control the personal electronic
device and/or one or more software applications providing a
media-rich interactive experience with the physical interaction
device via the personal electronic device. Commands, in some
examples, may include launching of one or more software
applications, configuring one or more software application options,
and configuring device options (e.g., volume control, power off,
etc.).
[0034] Turning now to FIG. 1A, some implementations, an exterior
shell 106 of the physical interaction device 100, in some
implementations, includes a personal electronic device receptacle
150 configured to receive a variety of sizes of personal electronic
devices (plus, optionally, at least a portion of the retention
apparatus). In some implementations, a personal electronic device
may be positioned in a protective enclosure of a physical
interaction device to encourage physical interaction with the
personal electronic device, without the fear of injury or harm to
the personal electronic device itself, to players or surroundings.
A personal electronic device, in some examples, may include a
handheld consumer electronic device, cellular phone, smart phone,
multimedia device, personal entertainment device, handheld gaming
device, personal digital assistant, or other small computing
device.
[0035] The receptacle 150 may include a slot, deformable slit,
cavity, or other opening for receiving the personal electronic
device. The receptacle 150, in some implementations, includes a
deformable material configured to receive a variety of sizes of
personal electronic devices. The receptacle, in some
implementations, is a hollow region within the physical interaction
device.
[0036] In some implementations, the receptacle includes one or more
protrusions 104. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the physical
interaction device includes six protrusions 104a-f. When a personal
electronic device is inserted into the receptacle, in some
implementations, the personal electronic device rests against the
one or more protrusions 104. In some implementations, if the
physical interaction device includes more than one protrusion, the
personal electronic device may only engage a portion of the
protrusions in the case based on the size of the personal
electronic device.
[0037] Turning now to FIG. 1B, in some implementations, the
retention apparatus 102 is configured to releasably retain the
personal electronic device within the interior receptacle 150. The
personal electronic device retention apparatus 102 may be
configured to accept a variety of sizes and shapes of personal
electronic devices. For example due to being manufactured at least
in part from a flexible material such as an elastomer (e.g.,
neoprene, rubber, foamed urethane, foamed rubber, bungee cord,
etc.), coiled plastic, plastic, or metal. In some implementations,
the retention apparatus 100 is fabricated from a single material.
As shown in FIG. 1B, the retention apparatus 102, in some
implementations, is one or more retention clips. The retention
clip(s) may engage the personal electronic device to hold it in
place when the physical interaction device is moved. In some
implementations, the one or more retention clips are flexibly
secured within the interior receptacle such that the one or more
clips deflect as the personal electronic device is inserted into
the interior receptacle. Each of the one or more retention clips
may include a lip to engage a surface of the personal electronic
device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into
the interior receptacle, thereby securely retaining the personal
electronic device within the interior receptacle until manipulation
of the one or more retention clips by a user to release the
personal electronic device from the interior receptacle. In some
implementations, each of the one or more clips includes a tab that
may be pressed by the user to release a personal electronic device
held by the one or more clips.
[0038] The physical interaction device, in some implementations, is
sized and shaped to substantially enclose and protect the personal
electronic device within the interior receptacle during physical
activity such as rolling the device, throwing the device, kicking
the device, or striking the device against another object. In some
implementations, the physical interaction device is sized and
shaped to enable interaction with the personal electronic device
while the personal electronic device is substantially enclosed
within the device. In some implementations, the retention apparatus
ensures that the personal electronic device remains within the
interior receptacle when the physical interaction device is
used.
[0039] In some implementations, the physical interaction device
includes a window/opening for viewing of the personal electronic
device when retained within the interior receptacle. For example,
in some implementations, the personal electronic device may be
viewed through opening 150.
[0040] FIGS. 2A through 2J illustrate various views (including
cross sectional views such as FIG. 2A in which the cross section is
identified by shading) of an example personal interaction device
200 equipped with a retention device 202. In some implementations,
a retention apparatus 202 takes the form of one or more clips such
as clip 202a and 202b. The clip may be integrated with a physical
interaction device or may be removably inserted into the physical
interaction device. In some implementations, the retention
apparatus 200 is installed during or after manufacturing the
physical interaction device. The retention apparatus 200 may be
configured such that it is not removable by a user of the physical
interaction device.
[0041] The retention apparatus 202 may include a body. The body may
be made of a flexible material such as an elastomer (e.g.,
neoprene, rubber, foamed urethane, foamed rubber, bungee cord,
etc.), coiled plastic, plastic, or metal. The body may include a
base 204 that engages a pocket or slot 216 in the physical
interaction device as shown in FIG. 2G. The retention apparatus 200
may pivot around the base 204 as a personal electronic device is
inserted into the physical interaction device. In some
implementations, each of the one or more retention clips is
configured to at least one of flex or rotate as the personal
electronic device is inserted into the receptacle. In some
implementations, the slot 216 biases the clip 202 toward the area
where the personal electronic device is placed such that the clip
holds the personal electronic device in place when the personal
electronic device is fully inserted into the interior receptacle
250.
[0042] In some implementations, each of the one or more retention
clips include a cantilever extension 206 configured to bias the
clip to securely retain the personal electronic device within the
interior receptacle 250 upon full insertion of the personal
electronic device into the interior receptacle 250. The cantilever
extension 206 may bias the retention apparatus 200 as the end of
the cantilever extension 206 contacts a surface of the physical
interaction device. The biasing may cause the lip 208 of the
retention apparatus 200 to contact a surface of the personal
electronic device and substantially restrain the personal
electronic device in the physical interaction device when the
personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior
receptacle 250.
[0043] In some implementations, the retention apparatus includes
two or more clips that are biased towards each other (and towards
the area where the personal electronic device is placed) using an
elastic material such as an elastic band. In some implementations,
the elastic material is wrapped around the back of two or more
clips to pull the clips towards each other.
[0044] In some implementations, two retention devices 200 are used,
a first retention device on one side of the personal electronic
device and a second retention device on a second side of the
personal electronic device. In some implementations, as shown in
FIG. 2, two retention devices 200 are used and they are located on
opposite sides of the personal electronic device when the personal
electronic device is placed in the physical interaction device. In
some implementations, two different types of retention devices may
be used. For example, one or more clips may be used along with a
strap wrapped around the phone and a surface of the physical
interaction device.
[0045] As described in relation to FIG. 1, the physical interaction
device may include one or more protrusions 210 against which the
personal electronic device rests when it is clipped into the
physical interaction device using clips 208. In some
implementations, the personal electronic device will be held in
place based on the combination of the protrusions 210 and the clips
208.
[0046] In some implementations, the one or more retention clips are
sized and shaped to press the personal electronic device against
the one or more protrusions to releasably secure the personal
electronic device to the physical interaction device upon full
insertion of the personal electronic device into the interior
receptacle. For example, the physical interaction device may be
made of a pliable material, such as foam. When the personal
electronic device is inserted and pressed under the clips 208, the
clips will apply pressure to the personal electronic device and
hold it against the protrusions 210. The protrusions may deflect or
compress a small amount based on the pressure applied to the
personal electronic device by the clips 208. Thus, the personal
electronic device will be held securely within the physical
interaction device.
[0047] FIGS. 2I and 2J illustrate a cross-sectional view of a
physical interaction device is illustrated with the backside of a
retention clip 202 exposed. The personal electronic device
retention clip 202 is releasably installed in the physical
interaction device as discussed above. In other implementations,
the retention clip may be manufactured as part of the physical
interaction device.
[0048] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross sectional view of a physical
interaction device 300 with two retention clips (302 and 304)
installed. In some implementations, a portion of the physical
interaction device biases a clip toward the area where the personal
electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal
electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is
fully inserted into the interior receptacle. For example,
protrusion 308a biases clip 304 toward the area where the personal
electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal
electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is
fully inserted into the interior receptacle. In another example,
protrusion 308b biases clip 302 toward the area where the personal
electronic device is placed such that the clip holds the personal
electronic device in place when the personal electronic device is
fully inserted into the interior receptacle.
[0049] In some implementations, the combination of a slot (e.g.,
slot 216 as shown in FIG. 2G) in which the clip resides and a
protrusion (e.g., protrusion 308a or 308b) together bias a clip
toward the area where the personal electronic device is placed such
that the clip holds the personal electronic device in place when
the personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior
receptacle.
[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates the position of a clip as a personal
electronic device is inserted into the physical interaction device.
Prior to inserting a personal electronic device into an interior
receptacle of the physical interaction device 300, clip 304 will be
in the position of clip 304a. As a personal electronic device is
inserted, clips 304 and 302 will be pushed away from eachother. For
example, clip 304 will move from the position shown by clip 304a to
position shown by clip 304b. Once the personal electronic device is
fully inserted into the receptacle of physical interaction device
300, clip 304 will move from the position shown by clip 304b to
position shown by clip 304a. This movement will occur based on one
of the biasing mechanisms as described above. The personal
electronic device will be secured in the physical interaction
device by, for example, clips 302 and 304. A lip of each of the
clips will, for example, contact a surface of the personal
electronic device and substantially restrain the personal
electronic device in the physical interaction device when the
personal electronic device is fully inserted into the interior
receptacle as described in relation to FIGS. 2A through 2J.
[0051] In some implementations, an elastic material pulls, for
example, clips 302 and 304 towards eachother (e.g., to bias the
clips 302 and 304 toward the area where a personal electronic
device will reside when fully inserted into the interior
receptacle). In some implementations, the clips 302 and 304 each
include a cantilever extension that biases the clips toward the
area where a personal electronic device will reside when fully
inserted into the interior receptacle as discussed in relation to
FIG. 2G. In some implementations, more than one biasing mechanism
may be used to ensure that a personal electronic device is secured
when fully inserted into the interior receptacle of the physical
interaction device.
[0052] FIGS. 4A through 4C illustrate various physical interaction
devices and activities enabled thereby. The physical activities
demonstrated within FIGS. 4A through 4C, for example, may involve
jarring movements and/or striking of the physical interaction
device, during which secure retention of the physical electronic
device may be aided via the various retention apparatus and/or
assemblies described above. The activities illustrated within FIGS.
4A through 4C are for illustrative purpose only and are not meant
to limit in any way the form of the physical interaction device or
the activities enabled by the physical interaction device.
Additional embodiments of physical interaction devices and
activities enabled thereby are provided within related application
Ser. No. 13/348,433, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled "Physical
Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method for Use" and
Ser. No. 13/348,434, filed on Jan. 11, 2012, and titled "Physical
Interaction Device for Personal Electronics and Method for
Use."
[0053] Turning to FIG. 4A, in some implementations, a ball-shaped
physical interaction device 402 may be used in conjunction with a
bowling alley software application. The ball-shaped physical
interaction device 402 encloses a personal electronic device 404
executing a bowling application to enable bowling interactive play,
as illustrated in an activity diagram 400. The bowling application
may include software modules designed to interpret data received by
one or more sensors resident within the personal electronic device
404 and/or in communication with the personal electronic device 404
to recognize movement from the ball-shaped physical interaction
device 402. In some implementations, when a software module
executing upon the personal electronic device 404 interprets sensor
input indicative of movement related to rolling the ball-shaped
physical interaction device 402, the personal electronic device 404
may display movement in a scene on a screen area of the personal
electronic device 404. The personal electronic device 404, in some
implementations, may communicate display information to a remote
display 406, causing the display of movement in a scene 408 upon
the remote display 406 (e.g., personal computer monitor, LCD
display, television, or smart television (STV), etc.). For example,
as illustrated, a trajectory of the ball-shaped physical
interaction device 402 may be interpreted in relation to striking
virtual bowling pins (e.g., as illustrated on the remote display
406). For example, the scene 408 on the remote display 406 may
graphically illustrate the play action in real time (e.g., in a
video mode). In some implementations, coordination between multiple
personal electronic devices in multiple ball-shaped physical
interaction devices enables multiple players 410 to compete in
bowling. Coordination between the multiple ball-shaped physical
interaction devices, in some examples, may be achieved by local or
remote wireless communication such as, in some examples, radio
frequency (RF) transmissions, Bluetooth.RTM. transmissions,
cellular transmissions, or Wi-Fi.TM. transmissions.
[0054] In some implementations, when a physical interaction device,
such as the ball-shaped physical interaction device 402, is
designed to be rolled by a user, the game involves direct review of
information upon the screen of the personal electronic device
(e.g., personal electronic device 404) rather than on a remote
display (e.g., remote display 408). In these circumstances, it may
be beneficial to design the physical interaction device to stop in
a default upright position such that the screen is visible to the
user. For example, when a small child is playing a rolling,
kicking, or tossing game with a physical interaction device, to
encourage ease of review of information displayed in a screen area
of a personal electronic device installed within the physical
interaction device, it may be beneficial to include one or more
off-setting weights within the physical interaction device
positioned away from the center of mass of the physical interaction
device, thereby modifying the physical and motion characteristics
of the physical interaction device.
[0055] Turning to FIG. 4B, an example media-rich sporting activity
420, in some implementations, may include a ball-shaped physical
interaction device 422 encasing a personal electronic device 424 in
wireless communication with remote audio equipment 426. The
ball-shaped physical interaction device 422, in some examples, may
be similar to an inflatable beach ball or a volleyball. Although
illustrated as being visible, in some implementations the
ball-shaped physical interaction device 422 may completely surround
and obscure the personal electronic device 424. In some
implementations, a software application installed upon the personal
electronic device 424 may interact in real-time with the remote
audio equipment 426 to engage the players (e.g., during a game of
volleyball), for example, with commentary or to relay scoring
information. In some implementations, the ball-shaped physical
interaction device 422 may include a water tight enclosure
configured to protect the personal electronic device 424 from
physical impact and environmental impacts such as sand, water, and
snow.
[0056] Turning to FIG. 4C, an athletic device 442 may be embedded
with a personal electronic device 444 to enable, for example, an
interactive exercise or rehabilitative activity such as is
displayed in an exercise scene 440. As illustrated in the exercise
scene 440, for example, the athletic device 442 (e.g., a kettlebell
style weight), may hold the personal electronic device 444 (e.g.,
within a protective enclosure) which, in turn, may execute an
exercise regimen application. In some implementations, the exercise
regimen application determines behaviors of the user through one or
more sensor inputs, thereby tracking progress of the user. In some
examples, an exercise regimen application may collect information
regarding velocity, height, repetitions, and/or timing while a user
performs various exercise activities.
[0057] In some implementations, an exercise regimen application
provides instructions (e.g., "higher", "slow down", etc.) and/or
messages of encouragement (e.g., "just two more lifts", "you can do
it", etc.) to the user. Audio prompts, in some implementations, may
be provided through one or more separate or external speakers, for
example using a wireless headphone device, a speaker built into the
athletic device 442, or communication with an external device such
as a personal computer, television, or display monitor. In this
manner, for example, the personal electronic device 444 may be
encased safely within the athletic device 442 without the need to
provide sound-transmission capabilities from a built-in speaker. In
some implementations, an exercise regimen application may provide
instructions to a user to perform particular strength building
and/or rehabilitation activities.
[0058] In some implementations, the athletic device 442 includes a
retention assembly containing a weighted accessory block to adjust
the weight of the athletic device 442. For example, the athletic
device 442 may be sold with two or more accessory blocks, each
accessory block adding a particular weight to the athletic device
442 (e.g., one pound, two pounds, five pounds, etc.). The user, to
increase the impact of an exercise routine incorporating the
athletic device 442, may swap an accessory block of increased
weight into a retention assembly installed within the athletic
device 442. In some implementations, the application installed upon
the personal electronic device may derive the present weight
installed within the retention assembly. For example, an RFID chip
or other wireless signature may be included within the accessory
block such that the accessory block may be read by the personal
electronic device to identify the current weight. In other
implementations, the user may manually enter the weight of the
accessory block into the application (e.g., through a user
interface or by scanning machine-readable indicia marked upon the
accessory block, using the personal electronic device, prior to
installing the accessory block within the athletic device 442).
[0059] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 500
for installing and using a retention assembly within a physical
interaction device. The method 500, for example, may be performed
to install any of the retention assemblies described above.
[0060] The method 500 generally begins with assembling a retention
assembly. In some implementations, one or more of the assembly
steps may be performed by a manufacturer of the retention assembly.
The assembly, in some implementations, may be performed in part or
in full by a user of the physical interaction device prior to
interaction with the personal electronic device via the physical
interaction device.
[0061] In some implementations, assembling the retention assembly
begins with installing one or more retention clips (502). For
example, turning to FIG. 2G, the retention apparatus 202 may
include a body. The body may be made of a flexible material such as
an elastomer (e.g., neoprene, rubber, foamed urethane, foamed
rubber, bungee cord, etc.), coiled plastic, plastic, or metal. The
body may include a base 204 that engages a pocket or slot 216 in
the physical interaction device. The retention apparatus 200 may
pivot around the base 204 as a personal electronic device is
inserted into the physical interaction device. In some
implementations, each of the one or more retention clips is
configured to at least one of flex or rotate as the personal
electronic device is inserted into the receptacle.
[0062] In some implementations, a personal electronic device is
inserted into the interior receptacle of the physical interaction
device (504). The personal electronic device, in some
implementations, is pressed into the interior receptacle of the
physical interaction device util secured by the one or more
retention clips (506). In some implementations, the one or more
retention clips are sized and shaped to press the personal
electronic device against the one or more protrusions to releasably
secure the personal electronic device to the physical interaction
device upon full insertion of the personal electronic device into
the interior receptacle. For example, the physical interaction
device may be made of a pliable material, such as foam. When the
personal electronic device is inserted and pressed under the clips,
the clips will apply pressure to the personal electronic device and
hold it against the protrusions. The protrusions may deflect or
compress a small amount based on the pressure applied to the
personal electronic device by the clips. Thus, the personal
electronic device will be held securely within the physical
interaction device.
[0063] In some implementations, a software application is executed
upon the personal electronic device for enabling a particular
physical activity game involving the physical interaction device
(508). For example, a video-enhanced bowling game as described in
relation to FIG. 4A, a commentary-enhanced volleyball game as
described in relation to FIG. 4B, or an electronic personal
trainer-enhanced medicine ball workout as described in relation to
FIG. 4C may be accomplished using a physical interaction device
installed with the retention assembly and personal electronic
device, without concern for damage to the personal electronic
device via ejection from the physical interaction device.
[0064] Although discussed in relation to a particular series of
steps, in some implementations, one or more of the steps provided
within the method 500 may be performed in a different order and/or
one or more steps of the method 500 may be removed. For example, in
some implementations, the software application is executed upon the
personal electronic device for enabling a particular physical
activity game involving the physical interaction device (508) prior
to inserting the personal electronic device into the interior
receptacle of the physical interaction device (504).
[0065] In some implementations, the physical interaction device may
include a volume substantially larger than the protective
enclosure. For example, the physical interaction device may have a
volume at least three times as large as a volume of the personal
electronic device. The volume of the physical interaction device,
in some implementations, may be substantially hollow, for example
allowing the physical interaction device to be light weight or to
encourage air flow around a portion of the personal electronic
device to aid in cooling of the personal electronic device while
encased in the protective enclosure of the physical interaction
device.
[0066] To engage in interactive play via the personal electronic
device encased in the physical interaction device, in some
implementations, a user may execute a software application
installed in part upon the personal electronic device. In some
examples, the software application may come pre-installed upon the
personal electronic device, or the user may download the software
application from directly connected (e.g., removable memory drive)
or networked media storage. In some implementations, the physical
interaction device may be sold with one or more software
applications or with instructions for accessing one or more
software applications designed to enhance the use of the physical
interaction device.
[0067] In some implementations, a user may visit a web site to shop
for and purchase one or more software applications designed for
interactive play with a personal electronic device installed within
a physical interaction device. For example, via a browsing
mechanism available on the personal electronic device or other
personal computing device, a user may select one or more software
applications to install upon the personal electronic device.
[0068] In some implementations, a user may access a software
application interface to configure or personalize a software
application for use with the physical interaction device. For
example, a user may be provided the opportunity to customize an
application (e.g., audio settings or custom audio files, video
settings or custom video files, voice recognition settings, data
collection settings, etc.) through the personal electronic device,
or through a web site or online application accessible via another
personal computing device. In a particular example, a teacher may
select or input a set of trivia questions or spelling words to be
used in a physical learning game in a classroom environment. For
example, a ball-shaped physical interaction device may be tossed
between students, where the student is asked one of a series of
questions when the ball is caught. In some implementations, the
particular question asked may be based in part upon an orientation
of the personal electronic device within the ball-shaped physical
interaction device. The questions, in some implementations, may be
provided in a randomized order. In some implementations, the
questions may be displayed upon a screen area of the personal
electronic device which is visible to the student. The question, in
some implementations, may be asked audibly, for example through one
or more speakers built into the personal electronic device or in
communication with the personal electronic device.
[0069] In some implementations, a user may be provided the
opportunity to build an application configured for interaction with
the physical interaction device and to install the application upon
the personal electronic device. For example, a user may select and
customize existing modules to create a unique software application
for interaction with the physical interaction device.
[0070] A same software application may be installed upon two or
more personal electronic devices, in some implementations, such
that the two or more personal electronic devices may each be used
in interactive play, each of the two or more personal electronic
devices being inserted into a respective physical interaction
device. For example, the two or more personal electronic devices
may share data via a wireless network connection during interactive
play to provide near real-time interaction between the two personal
electronic devices. In some implementations, the two or more
personal electronic devices may be located in remote locations. For
example, a first player in a first geographic location may engage
in an interactive game with a second player in a second geographic
location.
[0071] In some implementations, one or more electronically coupled
devices, such as external speakers, microphones, display devices,
and remote control devices (e.g., installed interior and/or
exterior to the protective enclosure) may be included as part of
the media-rich experience provided by the physical interaction
device. One or more electronically coupled devices, in some
implementations, may be positioned external to the physical
interaction device and connected to the personal electronic device
and/or the physical interaction device via a wired or wireless
connection. In some implementations, one or more peripheral devices
may be installed within the physical interaction device and
directly or wirelessly connect to the personal electronic
device.
[0072] In some implementations, the physical interaction device may
include no additional electronics beyond the personal electronic
device. For example, an existing personal electronic device may be
placed within a protective enclosure of a physical interaction
device and a user may access the capabilities of the personal
electronic device to engage in a game or learning experience via,
for example, a software application executing in part upon the
personal electronic device.
[0073] In some implementations, a software application running on
the personal electronic device may wirelessly communicate with one
or more networked devices (e.g., a tablet, laptop, television,
digital display, audio speaker, etc.) to enhance and expand the
user experience. Further to the example, in some implementations,
user data may be stored on the personal electronic device, a
networked user device, or in remote network storage (e.g., within
an application cloud) for access and use by the user of the
personal electronic device or by others (e.g., a coach, doctor,
parent, etc.) interested in monitoring data collected via the
personal electronic device. Stored data, in some examples, may be
accessed in real time or collected and reviewed as historical
data.
[0074] In some implementations, a software application executing
upon the personal electronic device may determine the identity of a
particular player interacting with the personal electronic device.
Player identification, in some implementations, may be accomplished
via a touch input, such as via one or more button inputs or virtual
control inputs such as a virtual keyboard rendered on a screen area
of the personal electronic device. In other implementations, the
software may utilize one or more biometric identification
techniques, such as voice, facial feature, or fingerprint
recognition, for example utilizing one or more sensors and/or
sensor input applications. For example, biometric identification
techniques may be available on the personal electronic device or
through software modules accessible via one or more computer
networks accessible to the personal electronic device. In some
implementations, player identification may be accomplished while
the personal electronic device is encased in a physical interaction
device. In some implementations, one or more unique identifiers may
be mapped to a particular game player such as, in some examples,
barcodes or radio-frequency identification (RFID) chips provided in
or on a wrist band, card, or other separate identification
mechanism. In some implementations, a user may download a unique
game player code to the personal electronic device, and the
software may access the unique game player code within a memory
location of the personal electronic device to identify the game
player.
[0075] Similarly, in some implementations, the individual physical
interaction device may be identified by one or more software
applications executing on the personal electronic device. For
example, one or more printed bar codes, radio frequency
identification chips, or other unique identifiers may be included
within or upon the physical interaction device, enabling either a
general identification (e.g., round ball versus football) or a
unique identification (e.g., individually-purchased item) of the
physical interaction device. In some implementations, the personal
electronic device may be used to read an identifying marker, for
example by using one or more sensors such as a bar code reader,
camera, imaging system, or RFID sensor resident to the personal
electronic device. The personal electronic device, in some
implementations, may utilize the identifying information to
customize user experience, for example during game play or other
interaction.
[0076] In some implementations, recognition of a type of physical
interaction device, a uniquely identified physical interaction
device, and/or a uniquely identified game player may be used to
customize and enhance presentation of one or more games for use
with the physical interaction device. In some implementations,
unique audio, graphic, or video input may be provided based in part
upon identification of the physical interaction device. For
example, upon recognition that the physical interaction device was
sold with an exterior design of a licensed character, catch phrases
of the licensed character, a voice of the licensed character,
and/or one or more images or videos of the licensed character may
be provided to the game player during interactive play. In some
implementations, unique identification of a user may allow the
software application to store information (e.g., high score,
preferences, historical performance data, etc.) associated with the
unique user on the personal electronic device and/or at a remote
storage location on a computer network accessible to the personal
electronic device.
[0077] As shown in FIG. 6, an implementation of a network
environment 600 for use with a physical interactive device is shown
and described. In brief overview, referring now to FIG. 6, a block
diagram of an exemplary cloud computing environment 600 is shown
and described. The cloud computing environment 600 may include one
or more resource providers 602a, 602b, 602c (collectively, 602).
Each resource provider 602 may include computing resources. In some
implementations, computing resources may include any hardware
and/or software used to process data. For example, computing
resources may include hardware and/or software capable of executing
algorithms, computer programs, and/or computer applications. In
some implementations, exemplary computing resources may include
application servers and/or databases with storage and retrieval
capabilities. Each resource provider 602 may be connected to any
other resource provider 602 in the cloud computing environment 600.
In some implementations, the resource providers 602 may be
connected over a computer network 608. Each resource provider 602
may be connected to one or more computing device 604a, 604b, 604c
(collectively, 604), over the computer network 608.
[0078] The cloud computing environment 600 may include a resource
manager 606. The resource manager 606 may be connected to the
resource providers 602 and the computing devices 604 over the
computer network 608. In some implementations, the resource manager
606 may facilitate the provision of computing resources by one or
more resource providers 602 to one or more computing devices 604.
The resource manager 606 may receive a request for a computing
resource from a particular computing device 604. The resource
manager 606 may identify one or more resource providers 602 capable
of providing the computing resource requested by the computing
device 604. The resource manager 606 may select a resource provider
602 to provide the computing resource. The resource manager 606 may
facilitate a connection between the resource provider 602 and a
particular computing device 604. In some implementations, the
resource manager 606 may establish a connection between a
particular resource provider 602 and a particular computing device
604. In some implementations, the resource manager 606 may redirect
a particular computing device 604 to a particular resource provider
602 with the requested computing resource.
[0079] FIG. 7 shows an example of a computing device 700 and a
mobile computing device 750 that can be used to implement the
techniques described in this disclosure. The computing device 700
is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such
as laptops, desktops, workstations, personal digital assistants,
servers, blade servers, mainframes, and other appropriate
computers. The mobile computing device 750 is intended to represent
various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital
assistants, cellular telephones, smart-phones, and other similar
computing devices. The components shown here, their connections and
relationships, and their functions, are meant to be examples only,
and are not meant to be limiting.
[0080] The computing device 700 includes a processor 702, a memory
704, a storage device 706, a high-speed interface 708 connecting to
the memory 704 and multiple high-speed expansion ports 710, and a
low-speed interface 712 connecting to a low-speed expansion port
714 and the storage device 706. Each of the processor 702, the
memory 704, the storage device 706, the high-speed interface 708,
the high-speed expansion ports 710, and the low-speed interface
712, are interconnected using various busses, and may be mounted on
a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate. The
processor 702 can process instructions for execution within the
computing device 700, including instructions stored in the memory
704 or on the storage device 706 to display graphical information
for a GUI on an external input/output device, such as a display 716
coupled to the high-speed interface 708. In other implementations,
multiple processors and/or multiple buses may be used, as
appropriate, along with multiple memories and types of memory.
Also, multiple computing devices may be connected, with each device
providing portions of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server
bank, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system).
[0081] The memory 704 stores information within the computing
device 700. In some implementations, the memory 704 is a volatile
memory unit or units. In some implementations, the memory 704 is a
non-volatile memory unit or units. The memory 704 may also be
another form of computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic or
optical disk.
[0082] The storage device 706 is capable of providing mass storage
for the computing device 700. In some implementations, the storage
device 706 may be or contain a computer-readable medium, such as a
floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or
a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory
device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area
network or other configurations. Instructions can be stored in an
information carrier. The instructions, when executed by one or more
processing devices (for example, processor 702), perform one or
more methods, such as those described above. The instructions can
also be stored by one or more storage devices such as computer- or
machine-readable mediums (for example, the memory 704, the storage
device 706, or memory on the processor 702).
[0083] The high-speed interface 708 manages bandwidth-intensive
operations for the computing device 700, while the low-speed
interface 712 manages lower bandwidth-intensive operations. Such
allocation of functions is an example only. In some
implementations, the high-speed interface 708 is coupled to the
memory 704, the display 716 (e.g., through a graphics processor or
accelerator), and to the high-speed expansion ports 710, which may
accept various expansion cards (not shown). In the implementation,
the low-speed interface 712 is coupled to the storage device 706
and the low-speed expansion port 714. The low-speed expansion port
714, which may include various communication ports (e.g., USB,
Bluetooth.RTM., Ethernet, wireless Ethernet) may be coupled to one
or more input/output devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing
device, a scanner, or a networking device such as a switch or
router, e.g., through a network adapter.
[0084] The computing device 700 may be implemented in a number of
different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be
implemented as a standard server 720, or multiple times in a group
of such servers. In addition, it may be implemented in a personal
computer such as a laptop computer 722. It may also be implemented
as part of a rack server system 724. Alternatively, components from
the computing device 700 may be combined with other components in a
mobile device (not shown), such as a mobile computing device 750.
Each of such devices may contain one or more of the computing
device 700 and the mobile computing device 750, and an entire
system may be made up of multiple computing devices communicating
with each other.
[0085] The mobile computing device 750 includes a processor 752, a
memory 764, an input/output device such as a display 754, a
communication interface 766, and a transceiver 768, among other
components. The mobile computing device 750 may also be provided
with a storage device, such as a micro-drive or other device, to
provide additional storage. Each of the processor 752, the memory
764, the display 754, the communication interface 766, and the
transceiver 768, are interconnected using various buses, and
several of the components may be mounted on a common motherboard or
in other manners as appropriate.
[0086] The processor 752 can execute instructions within the mobile
computing device 750, including instructions stored in the memory
764. The processor 752 may be implemented as a chipset of chips
that include separate and multiple analog and digital processors.
The processor 752 may provide, for example, for coordination of the
other components of the mobile computing device 750, such as
control of user interfaces, applications run by the mobile
computing device 750, and wireless communication by the mobile
computing device 750.
[0087] The processor 752 may communicate with a user through a
control interface 758 and a display interface 756 coupled to the
display 754. The display 754 may be, for example, a TFT
(Thin-Film-Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) display or an OLED
(Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, or other appropriate
display technology. The display interface 756 may comprise
appropriate circuitry for driving the display 754 to present
graphical and other information to a user. The control interface
758 may receive commands from a user and convert them for
submission to the processor 752. In addition, an external interface
762 may provide communication with the processor 752, so as to
enable near area communication of the mobile computing device 750
with other devices. The external interface 762 may provide, for
example, for wired communication in some implementations, or for
wireless communication in other implementations, and multiple
interfaces may also be used.
[0088] The memory 764 stores information within the mobile
computing device 750. The memory 764 can be implemented as one or
more of a computer-readable medium or media, a volatile memory unit
or units, or a non-volatile memory unit or units. An expansion
memory 774 may also be provided and connected to the mobile
computing device 750 through an expansion interface 772, which may
include, for example, a SIMM (Single In Line Memory Module) card
interface. The expansion memory 774 may provide extra storage space
for the mobile computing device 750, or may also store applications
or other information for the mobile computing device 750.
Specifically, the expansion memory 774 may include instructions to
carry out or supplement the processes described above, and may
include secure information also. Thus, for example, the expansion
memory 774 may be provide as a security module for the mobile
computing device 750, and may be programmed with instructions that
permit secure use of the mobile computing device 750. In addition,
secure applications may be provided via the SIMM cards, along with
additional information, such as placing identifying information on
the SIMM card in a non-hackable manner.
[0089] The memory may include, for example, flash memory and/or
NVRAM memory (non-volatile random access memory), as discussed
below. In some implementations, instructions are stored in an
information carrier. that the instructions, when executed by one or
more processing devices (for example, processor 752), perform one
or more methods, such as those described above. The instructions
can also be stored by one or more storage devices, such as one or
more computer- or machine-readable mediums (for example, the memory
764, the expansion memory 774, or memory on the processor 752). In
some implementations, the instructions can be received in a
propagated signal, for example, over the transceiver 768 or the
external interface 762.
[0090] The mobile computing device 750 may communicate wirelessly
through the communication interface 766, which may include digital
signal processing circuitry where necessary. The communication
interface 766 may provide for communications under various modes or
protocols, such as GSM voice calls (Global System for Mobile
communications), SMS (Short Message Service), EMS (Enhanced
Messaging Service), or MMS messaging (Multimedia Messaging
Service), CDMA (code division multiple access), TDMA (time division
multiple access), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), WCDMA (Wideband
Code Division Multiple Access), CDMA2000, or GPRS (General Packet
Radio Service), among others. Such communication may occur, for
example, through the transceiver 768 using a radio-frequency. In
addition, short-range communication may occur, such as using a
Bluetooth.RTM., Wi-Fi.TM., or other such transceiver (not shown).
In addition, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver module 770
may provide additional navigation- and location-related wireless
data to the mobile computing device 750, which may be used as
appropriate by applications running on the mobile computing device
750.
[0091] The mobile computing device 750 may also communicate audibly
using an audio codec 760, which may receive spoken information from
a user and convert it to usable digital information. The audio
codec 760 may likewise generate audible sound for a user, such as
through a speaker, e.g., in a handset of the mobile computing
device 750. Such sound may include sound from voice telephone
calls, may include recorded sound (e.g., voice messages, music
files, etc.) and may also include sound generated by applications
operating on the mobile computing device 750.
[0092] The mobile computing device 750 may be implemented in a
number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it
may be implemented as a cellular telephone 780. It may also be
implemented as part of a smart-phone 782, personal digital
assistant, or other similar mobile device.
[0093] Various implementations of the systems and techniques
described here can be realized in digital electronic circuitry,
integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application
specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware,
software, and/or combinations thereof. These various
implementations can include implementation in one or more computer
programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable
system including at least one programmable processor, which may be
special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and
instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a
storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output
device.
[0094] These computer programs (also known as programs, software,
software applications or code) include machine instructions for a
programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level
procedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or in
assembly/machine language. As used herein, the terms
machine-readable medium and computer-readable medium refer to any
computer program product, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic
discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs))
used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable
processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives
machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term
machine-readable signal refers to any signal used to provide
machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.
[0095] To provide for interaction with a user, the systems and
techniques described here can be implemented on a computer having a
display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid
crystal display) monitor) for displaying information to the user
and a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse or a trackball)
by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of
devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well;
for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of
sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or
tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any
form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.
[0096] The systems and techniques described here can be implemented
in a computing system that includes a back end component (e.g., as
a data server), or that includes a middleware component (e.g., an
application server), or that includes a front end component (e.g.,
a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web
browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of
the systems and techniques described here), or any combination of
such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components
of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of
digital data communication (e.g., a communication network).
Examples of communication networks include a local area network
(LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and the Internet.
[0097] The computing system can include clients and servers. A
client and server are generally remote from each other and
typically interact through a communication network. The
relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer
programs running on the respective computers and having a
client-server relationship to each other.
[0098] In view of the structure, functions and apparatus of the
systems and methods described here, in some implementations,
apparatus and methods for retaining a personal electronic device
within a physical interaction device are provided. Having described
certain implementations of methods and apparatus for supporting
interactions with a personal electronic device using a physical
interaction-enabling device with a protective enclosure for the
personal electronic device, it will now become apparent to one of
skill in the art that other implementations incorporating the
concepts of the disclosure may be used. Therefore, the disclosure
should not be limited to certain implementations, but rather should
be limited only by the spirit and scope of the following
claims.
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