U.S. patent application number 15/137994 was filed with the patent office on 2016-10-27 for communication between devices using tactile or visual inputs, such as devices associated with mobile devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is T-Mobile USA, Inc.. Invention is credited to Patrick Carney, Valerie Goulart, Maura Hoven, Andrea Small, Sinclair Temple, Joseph Ungari.
Application Number | 20160316347 15/137994 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42560408 |
Filed Date | 2016-10-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160316347 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ungari; Joseph ; et
al. |
October 27, 2016 |
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN DEVICES USING TACTILE OR VISUAL INPUTS, SUCH
AS DEVICES ASSOCIATED WITH MOBILE DEVICES
Abstract
A method and system for communication between users is
described. In some examples, the system provides two or more
dedicated communication devices that communicate with one another
without voice-based or written communications. In some cases, the
devices provide single input/out capabilities. In some cases, the
devices provide multiple input/output capabilities.
Inventors: |
Ungari; Joseph; (Seattle,
WA) ; Hoven; Maura; (Seattle, WA) ; Goulart;
Valerie; (Seattle, WA) ; Small; Andrea;
(Seattle, WA) ; Temple; Sinclair; (Seattle,
WA) ; Carney; Patrick; (Seattle, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
T-Mobile USA, Inc. |
Bellevue |
WA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
42560408 |
Appl. No.: |
15/137994 |
Filed: |
April 25, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13705046 |
Dec 4, 2012 |
9326108 |
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15137994 |
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12371506 |
Feb 13, 2009 |
8326378 |
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13705046 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04W 88/04 20130101;
H04W 88/06 20130101; H04M 1/7253 20130101; H04M 1/72544 20130101;
H04W 4/12 20130101; H04M 19/04 20130101; H04M 1/72547 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04W 4/12 20060101
H04W004/12 |
Claims
1. A communication system containing two or more communication
devices, the system, comprising: a first communication device,
wherein the first communication device includes: a first input
component, wherein the first input component is configured to only
receive a single, tactile input from a first user; a first message
transmission component, wherein the message transmission component
is configured to only send a first pre-defined message to a first
pre-defined address associated with a second communication device
in response to receiving the single input from the first user via
the first input component, wherein the first pre-defined address is
selected from one of multiple available addresses; a first output
component, wherein the first output component is configured to only
perform a single action in response to receiving a second
pre-defined message from the second communication device; a first
housing for at least partially enclosing the first input component,
the first message transmission component, and the first output
component, wherein the housing does not carry an audio input device
or an audio output device; and a second communication device paired
to the first communication device, wherein the second communication
device includes: a second input component, wherein the second input
component is configured to only receive a single, tactile input
from a second user; a second message transmission component,
wherein the second message transmission component is configured to
only send the second pre-defined message to the first pre-defined
address associated with the first communication device in response
to receiving the single input from the second user via the second
input component; a second output component, wherein the second
output component is configured to only perform a single action in
response to receiving a pre-defined message from the first
communication device; and a second housing for at least partially
enclosing the second input component, the second message
transmission component, and the second output component, wherein
the second housing does not carry an audio input device or an audio
output device.
2. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first and
second communication devices are sold as a set with the first and
second pre-defined addresses, and wherein no additional monthly
wireless service charges need be paid for the first and second
communication devices to communicate with one another.
3. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first message
transmission component of the first communication device causes a
mobile device, in communication with the first communication
device, to send the first pre-defined message to a pre-defined
address for a mobile device associated with the second
communication device.
4. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first
communication device performs a first action in response to
receiving the second pre-defined message from the second
communication device and the second communication device performs a
second, different action in response to receiving the first
pre-defined message from the first communication device.
5. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the first and
second communication devices are pieces of jewelry or garments.
6. The communication system of claim 1, wherein the second
communication device is a lamp, vase, sculptural element, digital
picture frame, or desk accessory.
7. A system of two communication devices for use with a wireless
cellular telecommunications network, the system consisting
essentially of: a first wireless communication device, wherein the
first wireless communication device includes: a first input
component that receives input from a user of the first wireless
communication device; a first output component that provides a
single human-perceptible output for a user of the first wireless
communication device, wherein the single human-perceptible output
is a tactile output or a non-text output, a first data storage,
processing and communication component that is configured to at
least: store a single electronic address, receive transmitted
information from the second wireless communication device, process
a received input at the first input component, and in response to
the received input at the first input component, transmit
information from the first wireless communication device to a
second wireless communication device directly or indirectly via the
wireless cellular telecommunications network, wherein the single
electronic address is associated with the second wireless
communication device; a first power component to supply power to
the first wireless communication device; a first housing for at
least partially enclosing the first input component, the first
output component, the first data storage, processing and
communication component, and the first power component; the second
wireless communication device, wherein the second wireless
communication device includes: a second input component, a second
data storage, processing and communication component that is
configured to at least: store a single electronic address
associated with the first wireless communication device, process a
received input at the second input component, in response to the
received input at the second input component, transmit information
from the second wireless communication device to the first wireless
communication device directly or indirectly via the wireless
cellular telecommunications network, receive the transmitted
information from the first wireless communication device; a second
power component to supply power to the second wireless
communication device; and a second output component that provides a
single human-perceptible output for a user of the second wireless
communication device in response to any received information,
wherein the single human-perceptible output is a tactile output or
a non-text output, and a housing for at least partially enclosing
the second input component, the second output component, the second
data storage, processing and communication component, and the
second power component.
8. An apparatus associated with a mobile device, the apparatus
comprising: a housing, wherein the housing facilitates viewing of
one of multiple colors of light, and contains: a communications
device, wherein the communications device wirelessly receives
information from an associated wireless mobile device, wherein the
housing is separate from the associated wireless mobile device; a
control device, wherein the control device selects one of the
multiple colors of light based on the received information; and an
output device, wherein the output device outputs only the selected
color viewable via the housing, and wherein the housing lacks any
microphone, speaker, or other audio input/output device.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the housing is approximately
spherical, and wherein the communication and control devices are
monolithically formed on a single semiconductor substrate.
10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the apparatus is a desk
accessory that performs typical functions of the accessory.
11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the communications device
receives information from the associated wireless mobile device via
the Bluetooth wireless protocol.
12. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the communications device
receives the information from the associated wireless mobile device
via a local area network that includes the associated wireless
mobile device and the apparatus.
13-31. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/705,046, filed on Feb. 13, 2009, and
entitled "COMMUNICATION BETWEEN DEVICES USING TACTILE OR VISUAL
INPUTS, SUCH AS DEVICES ASSOCIATED WITH MOBILE DEVICES," now U.S.
Pat. No. 9,326,108, which is a continuation application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/371,506, filed on Feb. 13, 2009, and
entitled "COMMUNICATION BETWEEN DEVICES USING TACTILE OR VISUAL
INPUTS, SUCH AS DEVICES ASSOCIATED WITH MOBILE DEVICES," now U.S.
Pat. No. 8,326,378, both of which are hereby incorporated herein in
their entireties by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Advances in technology facilitate and drive the ways in
which people communicate with one another, specifically people in
different locations. Voice communications over home telephones
preceded voice communications over mobile telephones, which
preceded voice communications over IP networks. Similarly, written
communications over the mail preceded written communications over
email, which preceded instant messaging and other avenues of
sending short written communications (e.g., short messages over
data channels). The trend is to automate what is done in the
physical world (letters to emails) in order to provide users with
rich, complex environments that expand their reach to other
users.
[0003] Currently, mobile devices facilitate communication in a
number of different ways: users can send email messages, make
telephone calls, send text and multimedia messages, chat with other
users, and so on. That is, the mobile device provides a user with a
plethora of means for oral or written communication. However, there
may be times when the user wishes to communicate in yet another
fashion. Current mobile devices may not provide such
capabilities.
[0004] The need exists for a method and system that overcomes these
problems and progresses the state of the art, as well as one that
provides additional benefits. Overall, the examples herein of some
prior or related systems and their associated limitations are
intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Other limitations of
existing or prior systems will become apparent to those of skill in
the art upon reading the following Detailed Description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a pictorial diagram illustrating communication
between users.
[0006] FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating a suitable system
for providing communication between users via haptic/visual
communication devices.
[0007] FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating suitable components
within the network of FIG. 2A
[0008] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating suitable components
for a haptic/visual communication device.
[0009] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a routine for
providing communication between users via haptic/visual
communication devices.
[0010] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system for
providing communication between users via single input/output
communication devices.
[0011] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating a routine for
providing communication between users via single input/output
communication devices.
[0012] FIGS. 7A-7C are schematic diagrams illustrating systems for
providing communication between users via multiple input/output
communication devices.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a routine for
providing communication between users via multiple input/output
communication devices
[0014] FIGS. 9A-9B are schematic diagrams illustrating a system for
providing communication between users via dynamic input/output
communication devices.
[0015] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a routine for
providing communication between users via dynamic input/output
communication devices.
[0016] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system for
providing communication with a group of users sharing similar
communication devices.
[0017] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a routine for
providing communication with a group of users sharing similar
communication devices.
[0018] The headings provided herein are for convenience only and do
not necessarily affect the scope or meaning of the claimed
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The inventors have recognized the need for users to
communicate at a low level to a friend or other person in an
unobtrusive manner using a simple device. Such a device can be
small and unitary, sized to be held within the hand of the user,
and be manufactured inexpensively, such as providing substantially
all electronic components on a single chip or single,
monolithically integrated semiconductor substrate. The device would
have a very limited function or feature set, including even the
ability to provide only a single output based on a single
input.
[0020] Possibly more importantly, the devices may communicate
wirelessly over a long range, such as greater than one kilometer,
by using existing wireless infrastructure, such as a wireless
cellular network. Such devices can communicate directly with the
wireless network, or communicate using a short-range wireless
protocol to a cell phone or other mobile device, where that mobile
device in turn communicates with the longer distance wireless
network. By providing a small feature set and limited input/output,
only a single signal (e.g., a control message) or small set of
signals need be accommodated with such devices. Thus, such devices
could use existing call setup signals employed in cellular
telephone communications, use existing messaging in closed-power
control under such cellular telephone protocols, and so forth.
Thus, no new signals need be adopted, but instead existing signals
under currently implemented wireless standards can be used to
initiate a response on one device by another device.
[0021] Such devices may be packaged together as a pair or set, and
sold as a unit, or sold individually and paired at a later time.
For example, a wireless service provider may sell such paired
devices at a retail location. The devices may have stored within
their memory an associated electronic address or phone number with
the other device in the set. In some cases, the devices may also
readily accommodate the addition and storage of electronic
addresses for devices outside of a paired device, in order to
facilitate grouping of devices after purchase, among other
benefits. Further, the wireless service provider can automatically
provision wireless service for the devices so that they may operate
within that wireless provider's network (or another network).
[0022] Overall, a system and method for providing communication
between users is described herein. The system includes
communication devices capable of receiving haptic or tactile user
inputs and performing haptic, tactile, visual, and other non-voice
based or non-text based outputs. The communication devices may be
in pairs, may be within a group of three or more devices, or may
stand alone. The communication devices may communicate directly
with one another over a network, or may communicate to and/or
receive instructions from mobile devices that communicate with one
another over a network.
[0023] In some examples of the system, the communication devices
are configured to receive a single input and to produce a single
output. For example, a small, spherical device may be squeezed by a
user, causing a second, similar device held by a second user to
vibrate. The second user may then squeeze his/her device, causing
the first device to vibrate. Thus, the single input/output
communication devices facilitate communication between users
without using voice or written communication.
[0024] In some examples of the system, the communication devices
are configured to receive one or more multiple inputs, and produce
one or more multiple outputs. For example, squeezing a first device
may cause a second device to vibrate, while rubbing the first
device may cause the second device to change color.
[0025] In some examples of the system, the communication devices
include components capable of receiving dynamically changing inputs
and producing dynamically changing outputs. For example, the first
device may include a camera, and taking a picture using the camera
may cause the second device to present the picture to a user. The
second device may also alert the user about the picture, such as by
vibrating, flashing, or by providing other alerts as described
herein.
[0026] In some examples, paired and grouped communication devices
may be similar in look, shape, and/or functionality. For example,
the communication devices may be a set of earrings worn by two
users, watches worn by two users, or small spheres carried by a
group of users. In some examples, the communication devices may be
different in look, shape, and/or functionality. For example, a
first communication device may be an earring worn by a user, while
a second communication device may be a sphere, vase, sculpture or
other accessory on a user's desk.
[0027] Various examples of the system will now be described. The
following description provides specific details for a thorough
understanding and enabling description of these examples. One
skilled in the relevant art will understand, however, that the
system may be practiced without many of these details. Likewise,
one skilled in the relevant art will also understand that the
system incorporates many other obvious features not described in
detail herein. Additionally, some well-known structures or
functions may not be shown or described in detail below, so as to
avoid unnecessarily obscuring the relevant description.
[0028] The terminology used below is to be interpreted in its
broadest reasonable manner, even though it is being used in
conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific
examples of the system. Indeed, certain terms may even be
emphasized below; however, any terminology intended to be
interpreted in any restricted manner will be overtly and
specifically defined as such in this Detailed Description
section.
Suitable System
[0029] As discussed herein, the system facilitates communication
between users that is not oral or written. The system may
facilitate communication of a non-verbal or silent signal, gesture,
or feeling. Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram 100
illustrating non-verbal communication between users is shown. A
first user 110 wears a communication device 120 in the form of an
earring. The first user wants to let her friend, a second user 130,
know that she is thinking of her. She squeezes her communication
device 120. The communication device 120 transmits information to a
communication device 140 (also an earring) associated with the
second user 130, causing the communication device 140 to vibrate
and informing the second user 140 that her friend is thinking of
her. The second user 140 may squeeze her communication device 130,
causing her device to transmit information back to the
communication device 120 associated with the first user. Upon
receipt, the communication device 120 may vibrate, informing the
first user 110 that the second user 130 received her communication.
Of course, this scenario is one of many possible scenarios
contemplated by the system, some of which will be discussed in
detail herein.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 2A, a block diagram illustrating a
suitable system 200 for providing communication between users via
haptic/visual communication devices is shown. Aspects of the system
may be stored or distributed on tangible computer-readable media,
including magnetically or optically readable computer discs,
hard-wired or preprogrammed chips (e.g., EEPROM semiconductor
chips), nanotechnology memory, biological memory, or other data
storage media. Alternatively or additionally, computer implemented
instructions, data structures, screen displays, and other data
under aspects of the system may be distributed over the Internet or
over other networks (including wireless networks), on a propagated
signal on a propagation medium (e.g., an electromagnetic wave(s), a
sound wave, etc.) over a period of time, or they may be provided on
any analog or digital network (packet switched, circuit switched,
or other scheme).
[0031] The system 200 includes a first communication device 120
associated with a first mobile device 210, a second communication
device 140 associated with a second mobile device 230, and a
network 220 that provides a communication link between the two
mobile devices. Alternatively, or additionally, the two
communication devices may communicate directly via the network. The
system 200 may include components within the network 220 that
facilitate communications between devices. For example, the network
200 may include components that modify or adjust the functionality
of the devices on the network, such as how devices perform based on
received inputs. Further details are discussed herein. Of course,
the system 200 may include more communication devices, or may only
include one communication device. Mobile devices 210, 230 may be a
cell phone, laptop, PDA, smart phone, and so on. Alternatively, or
additionally, the system may associate the communication devices
120 and 140 with other devices, such as desktop computers, servers,
and so on.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 2B, a block diagram illustrating suitable
components within the network 220 is shown. The network 220 may
include a cell or GSM-based network 240 that communicates with an
IP-based network 250 via a gateway 260. The IP-based network 250
may include or communicate with one or more user computing devices
252, a database 254, and so on. The user computing devices 252 may
display and/or present information to users of the communication
devices described herein, such as information stored in the
database 254. Examples of presented information include:
information related to a service plan for the communication
devices, information related to previous or recorded communications
using the devices, information related to modifying or changing
parameters associated with the communication devices, and so on.
Further details are discussed herein.
[0033] The network 220 may include any network capable of
facilitating communications between devices, and is not limited to
those shown in FIG. 2B. Examples include GSM (Global System for
Mobile Communications), UMA/GAN (Unlicensed Mobile Access/Generic
Access Network), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), UMTS
(Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), EDGE (Enhanced Data
for GSM Evolution), LTE (Long Term Evolution), Wimax (Worldwide
Interoperability for Microwave Access), Voice Over Internet
Protocol (VoIP), TCP/IP, and other technologies. Thus, unlike
previous systems of paired devices (walkie-talkies, and so on) that
are limited to short distance communications, the system 200
enables communications over longer distances (e,g., 1 km or
more).
[0034] In some cases, the cell-based networks 240 incorporate
picocells, small base stations having short wireless ranges and
generally located in residential or business locations to provide
local coverage to that location. Picocells may be directly
connected to a network, and often appear as cell sites having a
Cell Global Identity (CGI) value within the network.
[0035] In some cases, the IP-based networks 250 (e.g., UMA
networks) incorporate femtocell networks. Similar to VoIP, in
femtocell networks voice communications are packetized and
transmitted over the Internet. UMA networks typically feature WiFi
access points for receiving and sending voice communications over
an unlicensed spectrum; femtocell networks typically feature
wireless access points broadcasting within licensed spectrums of a
telecommunications service provider, with conversion of voice
communications into IP packets for transmission over the
Internet.
[0036] The first and second communication devices, and other
communication devices described herein may exchange messages, data,
or information directly between one another, or via associated
mobile devices. Referring to FIG. 3, a block diagram illustrating
suitable components for a haptic/visual communication device 120,
140 is shown. The device 120, 140 includes an input component 310
capable of facilitating or receiving user input and identifying or
determining a message or other information to be transmitted based
on the received input, as well as an output component 360 capable
of performing one or more actions in response to receiving an
indication (such as a message from a paired device or from a
network component).
[0037] The input component 310 may be configured in a variety of
different ways, depending on the type or functionality of the
communication device. In some cases, the communication device
performs a single function, and the input component facilitates
reception of a single type of input. For example, the communication
device may be a small sphere, and a squeeze of the housing of the
sphere provides the input to the device. Thus, in some cases, the
communication device is a small, inexpensive device only containing
components required to receive an input, transmit a message,
receive a message, and perform a single action. For example, a
small, inexpensive device may only contain a touch sensor (to
detect a tactile input), a series of logic gates (to process the
tactile input), a radio (to transmit a message in response to a
detected input), and a battery to power the device.
[0038] In other cases, the communication device performs more than
one function, and the input component facilitates reception of
multiple types of input or dynamically changing inputs. For
example, the input component may be a touch screen that receives
many different inputs based on how the user touches the screen,
what gestures the user makes on the screen, and so on. The input
component may also be a component that facilitates selection of
communication devices, multiple inputs, actions to be performed at
other communication devices, and so on. Example input components
include user interface components (such as touch screens), rotation
components, other tactile-based components, buttons and other
selection components, and so on.
[0039] The input component may facilitate the reception of multiple
inputs via a single type of input mechanism, or via multiple types
of input mechanisms. Different inputs, variations of inputs, and/or
combinations of inputs may result in sending different messages,
and thus causing different outputs at other communication devices.
For example, reception of a light squeeze could result in a blue
light being displayed at a paired device, whereas a strong squeeze
could result in a red light at the paired device. Thus, the
strength of squeeze, in addition to the act of squeezing, may
correspond to the output. As another example, the duration may also
affect the output. A quick squeeze may result in a purple light,
but a long squeeze may result in a green light. In addition,
combinations of input mechanisms, such as a quick, strong squeeze,
may produce certain results at paired devices. Further details
regarding different types of communication devices and input
components are described herein.
[0040] The output component 360 may also be configured in variety
of ways, depending on the type of functionality of the
communication device. In some cases, the communication device
performs a single action, and the output component facilitates
performance of a single action. For example, the communication
device may vibrate. In other cases, the communication device
performs more than one action, depending on what types of messages
or communications are received by the device. For example, receipt
of one message may cause the device to vibrate, while receipt of a
different message may cause the device to blink, while receipt of
both messages may cause the device to blink and vibrate. In some
cases, the output component is integrated into the device with the
input component, such as via a touch screen or other user interface
component.
[0041] The communication device 120, 140 also includes a
communication component 320 configured to communicate information,
messages, and/or other data to other communication devices, to
associated mobile devices, to other devices within an affiliated
network, and so on. The communication component 320 may transmit
messages over various signaling, control and/or messaging channels,
such as short message channels, signaling control channels, access
command channels, and so on. For example, the communication
component 320 may transmit Short Message Service (SMS) messages,
multimedia service (MMS) messages, Subsystem Numbers (SSN),
International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) messages,
Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) messages, and so on.
In some cases, the communication component 320 includes components
capable of communicating over wireless personal area networks
(WPANs), including communications over IEEE 802.15 (both high rate
and low rate), Bluetooth PAN, piconets, ZigBee, nearfield
communications, peer to peer networks, mesh networks, and so
on.
[0042] In some examples, two communication devices are paired with
one another and are configured to only communicate with one
another. In these examples, the communication components 320 of the
devices may send simple control messages to one another to prompt
the other device to perform an action. That is, one device may be
configured to only send a simple control message to a single
address associated with another device, and be configured to only
receive a simple control message from the other device. Thus,
effectively no additional bandwidth need be allocated for such
devices, since such small messages (less than one kilobyte) are
sent.
[0043] In some examples, a communication device may communicate
with a network component, such as a component within the cell
network 240, that receives messages, extracts the contents of the
message (or, merely recognizes the sender of the message via header
or other information), and transmits a messages to a paired device
based on the receipt of the message.
[0044] The information, or messages, may be stored in an optional
memory component 340, along with a data structure or map that
relates messages with types of input received by the communication
device. In some cases, the communication component 320 is a radio
capable of transmitting messages over a cellular network, such as
those described herein. In some cases, the communication component
320 is a Bluetooth component capable of transmitting information to
an associated mobile device (e.g., devices 210, 230) that prompts
the mobile device to transmit messages to other devices. For
example, a device pairs with a mobile device and uses one of
several know Bluetooth profiles to communicate. In some cases, the
communication component 320 is a WiFi component or other IP-based
component capable of transmitting data packets over a wireless
channel to an associated mobile device or to other devices within a
network. Of course, the communication component 320 may include
some or all of these components.
[0045] The memory component 340 may include, in addition to a data
structure mapping messages with types of received input and/or
actions to be performed, information identifying what devices are
paired or grouped with the communication device 120, 140. For
example, the information may identify names of grouped devices, IP
addresses of grouped devices, other addresses associated with
grouped devices, and so on. The following tables illustrate types
of information stored in various communication devices.
[0046] For a paired communication device, the table may store
information relating a reception address (for messages from the
paired device) with the action to be performed:
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Reception Address Action to be Performed
"address1" Vibrate housing/device "address2" Change
emitted/displayed color
[0047] For a paired communication device, the table may store
information relating a received input with a message to be sent to
the paired device:
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Received Input Message to be Sent Housing is
squeezed "Message1" Housing is rubbed "Message2"
[0048] For a communication device within a group of devices, the
table may store information relating received messages with actions
to be performed:
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Received Message Action to be Performed
"message1/user1" Emit blue light "message1/user2 Emit blue light
and blink "message2/user1 Emit red light "message 2/user2" Emit red
light and blink
[0049] In some examples, the system dynamically controls and
adjusts the performed actions based on a number of factors. For
example, the system may include prediction components that monitor
and adjust the performance actions based on a prediction of a
user's behavior to an input into the system. The system may review
historical information related to user behavior, historical
information related to the behavior of other users associated with
the user, historical information related to other users on a
network, and so on.
[0050] The communication device 120, 140 may also include other
components that facilitate its operations, including processing
components 330, power components 350, additional storage
components, additional computing components, and so on. The
processing component 330 may be a microprocessor, microcontroller,
FPGA, or a simple set of logic gates. The power component 350 may
be a replaceable battery, a rechargeable battery, a solar-powered
battery, a motion-generating component, a capacitor-based
component, inductor-based component, and so on. Of course, the
communication device 120, 140 may include other components, such as
GPS components, cameras and other accessories, other input and
output components (such as audio or visual components), and so on.
Some or all of the components in the devices may be manufactured
inexpensively on a chip, or on a single semiconductor
substrate.
[0051] A housing 370 for the communication device 120, 140 may
facilitate user input to the device, as described herein. For
example, the housing 370 may include material capable of being
squeezed, rubbed, turned, and so on, and configured to transmit an
indication of such an action to the device. The housing 370 may be
part of the input component 310 or may cause the input component to
perform an action, such as identify and transmit a message to
another communication device across the network. Also, the housing
370 may be configured to output information to a user. For example,
the housing 370 may change color, blink, or change intensity of
light when the device is in communication with other devices, may
vibrate when the device receives a prompt from another device, may
slightly expand or contract, may change temperature, and so on.
Further details regarding types of actions performed by the
communication device are discussed herein.
[0052] The housing 370 may include elements that enable the
communication device to be wearable by a user. For example, the
housing 370 may include components that facilitate being worn on a
belt buckle, backpack, necklace, or any number of
on-or-near-body-location garments and accessories. The housing 370
may also include key fobs, mobile phone straps or dongles, and
other attachment components.
[0053] As discussed herein, the communication device may
communicate directly with other communication devices, or may
leverage mobile device networks (such as a network associated with
a user's mobile phone service plan). Referring to FIG. 4, a flow
diagram illustrating a routine 400 for providing communication
between users via haptic/visual communication devices on a network
is shown. Before performing routine 400, a device may register with
a network or an associated mobile device. For example, upon
purchase at a retail store, the device may be preprogrammed with
one or more electronic addresses associated with another device,
using any known means. In one instance, a point of sale device may
scan a bar code associated with packaging for the device to obtain
a serial number associated with a serial number stored in the
device, and then a salesperson or purchaser may input a
corresponding electronic address for another or paired device
(phone number, URL, email address, etc.), into a terminal or
computer, such as the computer 252 connected to the network 250.
Alternatively or additionally, powering up a communication device
may cause the device to transmit a GSM registration message to an
associated network, or may cause the device to communicate with a
mobile device via a Bluetooth connection.
[0054] In step 410, a first communication device receives input
from a user. Using the system shown in FIG. 2 as an example, the
communication device 120, a small sphere attached to a first user's
keychain, is squeezed by the first user. In step 420, the
communication device 120, via an input component 310, generates or
selects a message based on the received input. In the example, the
device 120 reviews a table relating types of input with messages
(e.g., Table 2), and selects a message corresponding to a squeeze
of the device. In step 430, the device transmits the message to a
second device. In the example, the device may transmit the message
directly to communication device 140, over the network 220, or may
prompt the mobile device 210 to send a message (such as an SMS) to
mobile device 230, which then directs the message to the
communication device 140.
[0055] In step 440, the second communication device receives the
message. In the example, the communication device 140 may receive
the message directly from the communication device 120, or from the
associated mobile device 230 (such as via a Bluetooth connection).
In step 450, the second communication device generates an action to
be performed (e.g., Table 1). In the example, the communication
device 140 reviews a table that associated received messages with
actions to be performed (outputs), and selects an action associated
with the received message. For example, the communication device
140 selects "vibration" as the action to be performed. In step 460,
the second communication device performs the action. In the
example, the communication device 140 vibrates, alerting a second
user associated with the communication device 140, that the first
user was thinking of his/her, or communicating a private message to
the second user only known to the second user.
Communication between Single Input/Output Devices
[0056] In some examples, the system includes devices configured to
only receive one input and/or produce one output. Referring to FIG.
5, a schematic diagram illustrating a system 500 for providing
communication between users via single input/output communication
devices is shown. The system 500 includes a first communication
device 120 having single input/output functionality and an
associated mobile device 210 located at a first user 510. The
system 500 also includes a second communication device 140 having
single input/output functionality and an associated mobile device
230 located at a second user 530. In FIG. 5, the first
communication device 120 is a small sphere held by the user 510,
and the second communication device 140 is a larger sphere located
on the second user's desk. Of course, the system 500 may include
additional or other types of devices, or may only include one of
the devices. The flow of communications is now discussed.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 6, a flow diagram illustrating a routine
600 for providing communication between users via single
input/output communication devices is shown. In step 610, a first
device receives a single, tactile input from a user. For example,
the device is squeezed or rubbed by the user, or an input component
is selected by the user. In step 620, the first device causes an
associated mobile device to send a message to another user. For
example, the device communicates with an associated mobile device
over a Bluetooth connection, causing the associated mobile device
to transmit an SMS to the other user. The mobile device may be
preprogrammed with a number or address associated with the other
user. In step 630, the transmitted message is received at a
different mobile device associated with a different user. In step
640, a second device performs a single action in response to the
received message. For example, the mobile device that received the
message communicates with the second device over a Bluetooth
connection causing the second device to change from a red color to
a blue color. The user of the second device can then return the
message, by tapping his/her device, which, using a similar method,
causes the first device to vibrate.
[0058] Thus, the system includes two or more devices, where each
device is configured to receive one, and only one, input, and
perform one, and only output, with respect to one another. Of
course, other configurations may be possible. For example, the
system may include only one device, or may include many devices
that each perform a unique, but single, action in response to
receiving communications from one of the other devices.
[0059] For example, the system includes a single, stand-alone
communication device that communicates with an associated mobile
device. The device may be a ball or other apparatus that performs
an action based on communications received at the associated mobile
device. For example, a user may be working at his/her desk, and
receive a call from his/her boss. The call may prompt the mobile
device to transmit a message to the ball, causing the ball to
change from a (soothing) blue color to a (slightly less soothing)
red color.
Communication between Multiple Input/Output Devices
[0060] In some examples, the system includes devices configured to
receive multiple inputs and/or produce multiple outputs. Referring
to FIGS. 7A-7C, schematic diagrams illustrating systems for
providing communication between users via multiple input/output
communication devices are shown. In one example, FIG. 7A shows a
system having a first device 120 associated with a user 708. The
first device 120 includes a rotation input component 712, and a
touch screen input component 714. The rotation component 712
facilitates the reception of multiple inputs. For example, the user
may select a second user 716 (that is, the ID for a device
associated with the second user) from among, e.g., five
preprogrammed device IDs/network addresses, using the rotation
component, and may then select one or more actions to be performed
at the second user's device 140 using the touch screen component
714, which causes a corresponding signal to be sent based on the
stored table. In other words, a user rotates a dial on the device
(in this example, a wristwatch), to select one of five previously
selected destination numbers/addresses, and then inputs one of a
small set of input commands or strokes on the touch-sensitive
display (e.g., downward, upward, left or right strokes), and a
corresponding signal is sent to the selected destination
number/address.
[0061] The first device 120 is associated with a mobile device 210,
which may communicate messages to other devices within a network,
such as a second device 140 associated with a mobile device 230
owned by a user 742. The second device 140 may perform multiple
actions, such as display different colors, blink or vary the
intensity of the displayed colors, and so on.
[0062] In another example, FIG. 7B shows a first device 120
associated with a first user 755 in communication with a second
device 140 associated with a second user 765. In this example, the
two devices are paired, and communicate with one another directly.
The input components, in this example touch screens 752, 762,
provide for an unlimited number of inputs that can be received by
the devices. For example, the user 755 may draw a heart using the
input component 752 of the first device 120, and transmit the heart
to the second user 765, which is displayed on the input component
762 of the second device 140.
[0063] In another example, FIG. 7C shows a first device 120
associated with a mobile device 210 of a first user 770 in
communication with a mobile device 230 and second device 140
associated with a second user 780. The first user may send a number
of different messages, depending on what he/she inputs to the
device. For example, squeezing the first device 120 may cause the
second device 140 to light up, while tapping the first device may
cause the second device to vibrate, and so on. The functional
operation of these and other similar communications are now
discussed.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 8, a flow diagram illustrating a routine
800 for providing communication between users via multiple
input/output communication devices is shown. In step 810, a first
device receives a tactile input from a user. For example, the user
may squeeze, rub, or press the housing of the first device. In step
820, the device identifies a message to be sent to a second device
based on the received input. For example, the device looks to a
table that associates received inputs with types of messages, and
identifies a message to be sent based on the received input. In
step 830, the first device transmits the message to a second
device. For example, since the message is quite small (e.g., <1
kB) the first device is paired with a second device, and transmits
the message to the second device via a signaling and/or control
channel.
[0065] In step 840, the second device receives the message. The
second device, may, depending on the functionality provided by the
device, select an action to be performed based on the received
message. In step 850, the second device performs an action
associated with the message. For example, the second device
vibrates in the user's hand upon receiving the message. The user
can then return the message, by tapping his/her device, the second
device 140, which, using a similar method, causes the first device
120 to also vibrate, or can squeeze his/her device 140, causing the
first device 120 to change colors.
[0066] The system may include many different types of devices that
facilitate receiving multiple inputs and/or performing multiple
actions. Examples include watches, jewelry, accessories, garments
(e.g., scarves, hats, gloves), attachments to mobile devices, stand
alone devices (such as globes, lamps, vases, and other desk or home
accessories that also perform their normal functions), digital
picture frames, and so on. For example, a watch worn by a user may
be rubbed in one direction to provide one input, and rubbed in a
second direction to produce another input. The intensity or number
of user movements on a first user's watch may correlate to the
intensity of a color shown via a second user's desk lamp. Complex
movements performed by users at a first device may produce a
sequence of actions at a second device. For example, a user may
input a number of different gestures at the first device, which may
cause the second device to present a sequence of colors to a
user.
Communication between Dynamic Input/Output Devices
[0067] In some examples, the system includes devices configured to
receive dynamic or new inputs and/or produce dynamically changing
outputs. In some examples, these devices communicate with one
another without the use of communication components typically used
in current mobile device technology. The devices may only include
an input component, a memory component capable of only storing one
input, and an output component capable of only performing a single
action. In some example, these devices are paired with one another
and sold together. Each device may be configured to only
communicate with one another. They would not include a speaker or
microphone, and may not provide voice or text based
communications.
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9B, schematic diagrams illustrating a
system for providing communication between users via dynamic
input/output communication devices are shown. FIG. 9A shows a first
user, with a first device 910, taking a picture of herself while
sick. The first device 910 includes a user interface 912, which is
capable of presenting images to the user, receiving tactile input,
and so on. The first device 910 also includes a camera 914, and two
buttons 916, 918 which may operate the camera, the user interface,
the power to the device, and so on. The first device 910 is paired
with a second device 920, similar to the first device. The second
device, associated with a second user, also includes a user
interface 922, a camera 924, and two buttons 926, 928. In FIG. 9A,
the first user takes a picture using the first device 910, and the
first device, automatically or when prompted, transmits the picture
to the second device 920, for viewing by the second user, using,
e.g., MMS. A press of a button 916, 918, the act of taking the
picture, and/or selecting the picture via the interface 912 may
cause transmission of the picture from one device to another. Or,
pressing button 916 takes a picture, and pressing button 918
transits the picture to the second device 920. In some cases, the
picture may remain on both screens until replaced, showing the same
image to both users.
[0069] In FIG. 9B, the second user takes a picture, in this case a
picture of penguins (to cheer up her sick friend), and transmits
the picture to the first user via the two devices. Again, the same
series of inputs may initiate transmission of the picture. Thus,
the system, a pair or group of similar devices, enables users to
quickly communicate with one another without requiring voice-based
or written communications. In fact, no voice channel, or voice
communication capabilities are required, and in some cases, are not
provided by the devices 910, 920. The flow of these communications
is now discussed.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 10, a flow diagram illustrating a routine
1000 for providing communication between users via dynamic
input/output communication devices is shown. In step 1010, a first
device of a group of similar and dedicated devices receives an
input. For example, a user takes a picture using a digital camera
of the first device. The taking of the picture may be considered a
dynamically changing input, because the device has never received
such an input before (that exact picture). In step 1020, the first
device transmits the picture to a second device within the group,
e.g., as an MMS message. For example, the user may press a first
button to take a picture, which is displayed, and if acceptable,
press a second button on the first device causing transmission of
the picture to the second device. The first device may send a
message containing information associated with the picture over a
data channel. In step 1030, the second device performs an action,
such as displaying the picture. A second user may then take a
picture and send the picture back, or may modify the picture and
send the modified picture back, or provide other inputs. For
example, the viewing screen may be a touch screen, and the second
user may be able to modify the picture using the touch screen
(e.g., may write a message on the picture using the touch screen),
and send the modified picture back.
[0071] Because the communication devices 910, 920 are dedicated to
one another, the user is not required to enter address or
identification information when inputting a message to send to
another user. They can provide input (e.g., take a picture), and
the device can automatically communicate the input to the other,
dedicated, device. Thus, in some cases the user can quickly and
easily communicate with other users without having to first
identify what user they are communicating with, and without having
to write a message, speak, or provide other information, among
other benefits.
[0072] In addition, the system may create or update a log of
communications between devices. For example, the system may contain
a data structure associated with the users within the network (such
as in database 254) that stores pictures taken by both users, or
catalogs, dates, and/or timestamps interactions for archival
purposes. Using computing devices 252, the users may then view a
history of their communications with one another, or perform other
tasks using the stored pictures or other stored data. An example
data structure is as follows:
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 User Time Picture ID User1 12:43 Picture73
User2 12:44 Picture74 User1 12:45 Picture75 User1 12:45
Picture76
(The picture ID may be a network address of the location of the
picture.) Thus, the system may log some or all communications
between users, providing a history of communication that some
devices, having limited capabilities, may not directly provide. For
example, the devices may have limited memory (that is, they may
only store one photograph at a time), and the network, via
associated database components, may log any photos transmitted over
the network in order to provide storage of photographs taken by the
devices.
[0073] In some examples, the system may facilitate the transfer of
information from one or both of the communication devices to other
devices. For example, a communication device may also interface
with other electronic devices (such as cell phones, computers,
cameras, and so on) in order to transmit and/or receive content and
other information.
Other Communication Scenarios
[0074] In some cases, three or more communication devices are
contained within a dedicated group of devices. Referring to FIG.
11, a schematic diagram illustrating a system 1100 for providing
communication with a group of users sharing similar communication
devices is shown. The system 1100 includes a first device 1112
associated with a mobile device 1114 of a first user 1110. The
first device communicates with multiple users over a network 1120,
such as those described herein. For example, when the first user
squeezes her communication device 1112, it sends a signal to each
other device in the group and causes all other communication
devices grouped to her device 1112 to buzz, including device 1132
(associated with mobile device 1134 of user 1130), device 1142
(associated with mobile device 1144 of user 1140), and device 1152
(associated with mobile device 1154 of user 1150). Thus, the user
1110 may effectively broadcast the same message to a number of
different friends without having to enter each of the friends'
addresses into her device 1112.
[0075] The devices may be any of the communication devices
described herein, and may receive unique inputs and perform unique
actions based on which user sends a message. For example, in
response to the communication received from user 1110, user 1130
may squeeze her device 1132, causing the other devices 1112, 1142,
and 1152 to blink. Similarly, user 1140, in response to user 1130,
may then squeeze her device 1142, causing the other devices display
a blue color. However, user 1140 may also tap her device, which may
cause only the device 1132 of user 1130 to display a blue color
(e.g., letting her know she received the message). The flow of
these communications are now described.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 12, a flow diagram illustrating a routine
1200 for providing communication with a group of users sharing
similar communication devices is shown. In step 1210, a first
device of a group of three or more devices receives an input from a
user. For example, a first user squeezes her device. In step 1220,
the first device transmits a message to the other devices in the
group. For example, the first device transmits a pre-defined SMS to
three other devices. In step 1230, the other devices perform an
action in response to receiving the message. For example, the other
three devices blink.
[0077] In some cases, actions performed by a device may be
dynamically changed by a user. For example, a user's communication
device may include a data port, such as a USB (universal serial
bus), WiFi radio, Bluetooth component, or firewire plug, which
connects the device to a user's computer. The user may then be able
to program his/her device to adjust what actions the device may
perform in response to certain inputs received at other devices
paired with the user's device. The system, via a service provider
or other provider, may provide a webpage or other access portal to
users to help facilitate user configuration of his/her devices.
Additionally, the access portal may allow users to access
communication histories, as described herein, such as to access
digital pictures taken.
[0078] In some cases, the communication devices are part of a
service provider's service plan that governs use of a user's mobile
device. For example, the service plan may provide a certain number
of communications within the plan, and charge users a nominal fee
for every additional communication, or may charge a one-time fee
when a user purchases a device or pair of devices. The service
provider may then monitor the communications by inserting mobile
devices as intermediary communication components or via a network,
as described herein.
[0079] In some cases, the communication device may be a stand alone
device, and not be paired with another communication device. For
example, a "mood ball" on a user's desk may change colors depending
on who is calling the user. The mood ball, in communication with
the user's mobile device, may glow dark red when no one is calling,
and transition to a light red color when the user's spouse is
calling. The ball may include a lighting device, such as various
LEDs or other light emitting components, controlled by an output
component. The ball informs the user that his/her spouse is
calling, without alerting others of the fact (for example, when the
user is in a meeting) and possibly disrupting the user or other
users. Thus, the communication device may act as a lamp or other
light emitting device that emits light based on information
received from other devices.
Conclusion
[0080] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout
the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising,"
and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed
to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense
of "including, but not limited to." As used herein, the terms
"connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof means any connection
or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more
elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be
physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the
words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when
used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and
not to any particular portions of this application. Where the
context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using the
singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular
number respectively. The word "or," in reference to a list of two
or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the
word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list,
and any combination of the items in the list.
[0081] The above Detailed Description of examples of the system is
not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the system to the precise
form disclosed above. While specific examples for the system are
described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent
modifications are possible within the scope of the system, as those
skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, while
aspects of the system are described above with respect to capturing
and routing digital images, any other digital content may likewise
be managed or handled by the system provided herein, including
video files, audio files, and so forth. While processes or blocks
are presented in a given order, alternative implementations may
perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks, in
a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted,
moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide
alternative or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks
may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while
processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in
series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed or
implemented in parallel, or may be performed at different
times.
[0082] The teachings of the system provided herein can be applied
to other systems, not necessarily the system described above. The
elements and acts of the various examples described above can be
combined to provide further implementations of the system.
[0083] Other changes can be made to the system in light of the
above Detailed Description. While the above description describes
certain examples of the system, and describes the best mode
contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the
system can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may
vary considerably in its specific implementation, while still being
encompassed by the system disclosed herein. As noted above,
particular terminology used when describing certain features or
aspects of the system should not be taken to imply that the
terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any
specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the system with
which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in
the following claims should not be construed to limit the system to
the specific examples disclosed in the specification, unless the
above Detailed Description section explicitly defines such terms.
Accordingly, the actual scope of the system encompasses not only
the disclosed examples, but also all equivalent ways of practicing
or implementing the system under the claims.
* * * * *