U.S. patent application number 15/970509 was filed with the patent office on 2018-11-08 for modular pod.
The applicant listed for this patent is Greg Reaves. Invention is credited to Greg Reaves.
Application Number | 20180320394 15/970509 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64014554 |
Filed Date | 2018-11-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180320394 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Reaves; Greg |
November 8, 2018 |
Modular Pod
Abstract
Disclosed is a modular pod. The modular pod includes an enclosed
space defined by a floor panel, a plurality of vertical panels and
a ceiling panel. A first end of each vertical panel in the
plurality of vertical panels is attached to the floor panel. The
second end of each vertical panel in the plurality of vertical
panels is attached to the ceiling panel. Further, the modular pod
includes a chair placed on the floor panel within the enclosed
space. Further, the modular pod includes a door releasably engaged
to a vertical panel in the plurality of vertical panels. The
vertical panel defining a door opening for receiving the door
therein. Further, the modular pod includes audio-visual equipment
installed within the enclosed space. Further, the modular pod
includes ventilation equipment installed on one or more of the
floor panel, the plurality of vertical panels and the ceiling
panel.
Inventors: |
Reaves; Greg; (Upper
Marlboro, MD) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Reaves; Greg |
Upper Marlboro |
MD |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
64014554 |
Appl. No.: |
15/970509 |
Filed: |
May 3, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62500788 |
May 3, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 1/06 20130101; E04H
1/14 20130101; E04H 1/125 20130101; E04H 1/12 20130101; E04B 1/8218
20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04H 1/12 20060101
E04H001/12; E04H 1/14 20060101 E04H001/14; E04B 1/82 20060101
E04B001/82 |
Claims
1. A modular pod comprising: an enclosed space defined by a floor
panel, a plurality of vertical panels and a ceiling panel, wherein
a first end of each vertical panel in the plurality of vertical
panels is attached to the floor panel, and a second end of each
vertical panel in the plurality of vertical panels is attached to
the ceiling panel, wherein the second end is on the opposite side
of the first end; a chair placed on the floor panel within the
enclosed space; a door releasably engaged to a vertical panel in
the plurality of vertical panels, wherein the vertical panel
defining a door opening for receiving the door therein; an
audio-visual equipment installed within the enclosed space, and a
ventilation equipment installed on one or more of the floor panel,
the plurality of vertical panels and the ceiling panel.
2. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the plurality of vertical
panels includes a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel,
and a left side panel.
3. The modular pod of claim 2, wherein each of the front panel and
the back panel includes a rectangular section and a plurality of
beveled sections.
4. The modular pod of claim 2, wherein each of the right side
panel, and the left side panel is generally rectangular-shaped.
5. The modular pod of claim 2, wherein the right side panel, the
ceiling panel and the left side panel form a single panel, wherein
the single panel is bent to form a dome shaped structure, wherein a
first end of the single panel is attached to a first end the floor
panel, and a second end of the single panel is attached to a second
end of the floor panel, wherein the first end of the single panel
is on the opposite side of the second end of the single panel,
wherein the first end of the floor panel is on the opposite side of
the second end of the floor panel.
6. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein each of the floor panel and
the ceiling panel are arranged in a generally rectangular, tapered
shape, wherein the ceiling panel includes one or more solar
panels.
7. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein one or more vertical walls
in the plurality of vertical panels are made of a material with
modifiable light transmission properties.
8. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein one or more of the floor
panel, the plurality of vertical panels, and the ceiling panel
includes are made of one or more a wood, leather, aluminum, glass,
plastic and stainless steel.
9. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the one or more of the floor
panel, the plurality of vertical panels, and the ceiling panel
includes sound proofing material, wherein the sound proofing
material includes one or more of open cell rubber foam, melamine
sponges and resonant absorbers.
10. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the exterior faces of the
one or more of the plurality of vertical panels include one or more
billboards.
11. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the chair is one of a
massage chair, a reclining executive chair, an accent chair, a club
chair, a lounge chair, a camping chair, a wicker chair, a rocking
chair, a barber's chair, a ball chair, a bean bag chair, a beach
chair, a Barcelona chair, a cantilever chair, a deck chair, a
folding chair, an electric chair, inflatable and chair.
12. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the door is hingedly
mounted for movement between an open and a closed position creating
a rotatable engagement with the right side panel.
13. The modular pod of claim 2, wherein the right side panel
includes rails that allow the door to slide between an open and a
closed position.
14. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the interior of the modular
pod includes one or more storage spaces, wherein the one or more
storage spaces include one or more of shelfs, drawers, slots,
compartments, openings and a fold down shelf proximal to the chair,
wherein the fold down shelf provides a desk to an occupant of the
modular pod.
15. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the interior of the modular
pod includes a digital background mounted to the back panel,
wherein the digital background provides digital imagery in the
background of an occupant sitting on the chair.
16. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the audio-visual equipment
includes one or more of a power system, network connections, at
least one display monitor, at least one audio speaker and at least
one audio system.
17. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the ventilation equipment
includes an internally housed air conditioner system, wherein at
least a portion of the one or more of the floor panel, the
plurality of vertical panels, and the ceiling panel includes one or
more ducts to allow passage of air from the interior of the modular
pod to the exterior of the modular pod and vice versa.
18. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein the modular pod provides at
least one of a private smoking room, a relaxation room, a massage
room, a music room, an office, a study room, and a gaming room,
wherein the modular pod further includes a mobile payment device to
allow a user to make payment to access the modular pod.
19. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein a user uses a mobile phone
application to schedule a visit to the modular pod.
20. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein lockable are installed
below the floor panel.
21. The modular pod of claim 1, wherein one or more modular pods
are combined to create a connected assembly.
Description
[0001] The current application claims a priority to the U.S.
Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 62/500,788 filed on May 3,
2017.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally relates to modular
enclosures. More specifically, the present invention relates to a
modular isolation pod providing a private space for charging,
accessing the web, business, and relaxation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Millions of people travel to, from and through the United
States each day. In 2015 alone, 895 million people traveled via
airports to destinations in the United States and from the United
States. In the northeast corridor alone, Amtrak projected an
estimated 750,000 daily travelers. Further, 450 million people
visit the nation's top 10 cities each year, and millions of people
conduct business outside of a traditional office space.
Increasingly, users are asked to arrive earlier due to congestion
generated from security screening procedures and time
schedules.
[0004] Further, most people face unforeseen delays or intended wait
times that are completely out of their control. In airports and
train stations, companies provide preferred customers with a place
to get away from the masses. However, most travelers have to wait
on seats for hours or sit at a restaurant until boarding. Moreover,
with increased security since 9/11, more travelers are scrutinized
over the use of technology. Accordingly, most travelers are coming
to these places earlier, with longer wait times in more crowded
terminals. For those looking to charge their phone, surf the
internet, or hold an impromptu meeting, these places are not ideal
as many customers compete for quiet space and power outlets.
[0005] Often, many of these travelers are forced into circumstances
where they must conduct private activities in public. They also
have technology needs or interests that are now conducted in the
public domain. In airports, most people sit on a chair, drink at a
bar or eat at a restaurant. Some are members of the airline
executive travel suite, although this actually represents the
minority of travelers. Still, there is a constant subset of people
who seek a level of privacy whenever they are in public spaces.
Therefore, whether they need 15 minutes to charge your phone or
laptop, or to take a power nap, there is no publicly accessible
space in the airport that provides sound attenuation and free
access to the Internet.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need for improved spaces to travelers
that may overcome one or more of the abovementioned problems and/or
limitations.
SUMMARY
[0007] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter.
Nor is this summary intended to be used to limit the claimed
subject matter's scope.
[0008] According to some embodiments, a modular pod is disclosed.
The modular pod includes an enclosed space defined by a floor
panel, a plurality of vertical panels and a ceiling panel. A first
end of each vertical panel in the plurality of vertical panels is
attached to the floor panel. The second end of each vertical panel
in the plurality of vertical panels is attached to the ceiling
panel. For each vertical panel, the corresponding first end is on
the opposite side of the corresponding second end. Further, the
modular pod includes a chair placed on the floor panel within the
enclosed space. Further, the modular pod includes a door releasably
engaged to a vertical panel in the plurality of vertical panels.
The vertical panel defining a door opening for receiving the door
therein.
[0009] Further, the modular pod includes audio-visual equipment
installed within the enclosed space. Further, the modular pod
includes ventilation equipment installed on one or more of the
floor panel, the plurality of vertical panels and the ceiling
panel.
[0010] According to some embodiments, a portable, high-tech privacy
modular pod that provides privacy and comfort for weary passengers
waiting in transit is disclosed. The modular pod may be deployed in
high density areas such as airports or train stations, or remote
areas such as recreational parks, and may be leased by travelers
looking for rest and relaxation. For those seeking for a soundproof
getaway from the masses, the modular pod may provide a
well-designed and high-tech place to rest, recharge, or have a
private meeting. Further, the modular pod includes an audio-visual
entertainment system utilizing a computer-based user interface.
Further, the modular pod may allow occupants to reconnect, which
may include one or more of making a private call, conducting
business activities, and video chatting with family, friends,
coworkers. Further, the modular pod may allow occupants to
recharge, which may include charging devices, connecting to
playlists. Further, the modular pod may allow occupants to relax,
which may include playing interactive games, podcasts, watching
videos online and getting away from crowds.
[0011] According to further embodiments, for those seeking a
private alternative to a public condition, the present disclosure
provides a thoughtful, efficient space that allows a user to
decompress in a crowded place. This space is potentially viable
both indoors and outdoors.
[0012] Further, the disclosed modular pod may be located in high
travel areas, such as stadiums, arenas, concerts and sporting
events, tourist attractions, national parks and other large outdoor
events even on a temporary basis, where patrons desire a quick stop
to decompress.
[0013] Both the foregoing summary and the following detailed
description provide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly,
the foregoing summary and the following detailed description should
not be considered to be restrictive. Further, features or
variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein.
For example, embodiments may be directed to various feature
combinations and sub-combinations described in the detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate various
embodiments of the present disclosure. The drawings contain
representations of various trademarks and copyrights owned by the
Applicants. In addition, the drawings may contain other marks owned
by third parties and are being used for illustrative purposes only.
All rights to various trademarks and copyrights represented herein,
except those belonging to their respective owners, are vested in
and the property of the applicants. The applicants retain and
reserve all rights in their trademarks and copyrights included
herein, and grant permission to reproduce the material only in
connection with reproduction of the granted patent and for no other
purpose.
[0015] Furthermore, the drawings may contain text or captions that
may explain certain embodiments of the present disclosure. This
text is included for illustrative, non-limiting, explanatory
purposes of certain embodiments detailed in the present
disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a modular pod
according to some embodiments.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a top view of the modular pod of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a side view of the modular pod of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a front view of the modular pod of FIG. 1
according to a further embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a back view of the modular pod of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the modular pod of
FIG. 1 with the door open.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a side cross-section view of the modular pod of
FIG. 1 taken along a line passing through the middle of the modular
pod.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the modular pod of
FIG. 1 with the desk in an extended position with the right side
panel removed.
[0024] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the modular pod of
FIG. 1 with the desk in a retracted position with the right side
panel removed.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a back-perspective view of the modular pod of
FIG. 1 with the right side panel removed.
[0026] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a modular pod
according to some embodiments.
[0027] FIG. 12 is a side cross-section view of the modular pod of
FIG. 11 taken along the middle of the modular pod.
[0028] FIG. 13 is a front cross-section view of the modular pod of
FIG. 11 taken along the middle of the modular pod.
DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION
[0029] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by
one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present
disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be
understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality
of the above-disclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further
incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed
features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as
being "preferred" is considered to be part of a best mode
contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present
disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional
illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure.
Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations,
modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly
disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0030] Accordingly, while embodiments are described herein in
detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be
understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of
the present disclosure and are made merely for the purposes of
providing a full and enabling disclosure. The detailed disclosure
herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be
construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded in any
claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined
by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that
the scope of patent protection be defined by reading into any claim
a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the
claim itself.
[0031] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of
steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are
illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be
understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may
be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order,
the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being
carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an
indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or
methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences
and orders while still falling within the scope of the present
invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent
protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the
description set forth herein.
[0032] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used
herein refers to that which an ordinary artisan would understand
such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein.
To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein--as understood
by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such
term--differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition
of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as
understood by the ordinary artisan should prevail.
[0033] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein,
"a" and "an" each generally denotes "at least one," but does not
exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise.
When used herein to join a list of items, "or" denotes "at least
one of the items," but does not exclude a plurality of items of the
list. Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, "and"
denotes "all of the items of the list."
[0034] The following detailed description refers to the
accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference
numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to
refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of
the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and
other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions,
additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated
in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified
by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed
methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not
limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure
is defined by the appended claims. The present disclosure contains
headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as
references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the
subjected matter disclosed under the header.
[0035] The present disclosure includes many aspects and features.
Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are
described in, the context of modular enclosures, embodiments of the
present disclosure are not limited to use only in this context.
[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates a modular pod 100 in accordance with some
embodiments. The modular pod 100 may include an enclosed space
defined by a floor panel 102, a plurality of vertical panels and a
ceiling panel 104.
[0037] In some embodiments, each of the floor panel 102 and the
ceiling panel 104 may be arranged in a generally rectangular,
tapered shape. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the ceiling panel 104
may include one or more solar panels 122. Further, the one or more
solar panels 122 may comprise photovoltaic cells, or any electrical
devices that convert the energy of light directly into electricity
by the photovoltaic effect.
[0038] In some embodiments, the plurality of vertical panels
includes a front panel 106, a back panel 108, a right side panel
110, and a left side panel 112.
[0039] In some embodiments, a first end of each vertical panel in
the plurality of vertical panels is attached to the floor panel
102. Accordingly, a bottom end of each vertical panel in the
plurality of vertical panels is attached to the floor panel 102. As
shown in FIG. 1, a bottom end 148 of the right side panel 110 is
attached to the floor panel 102. Further, a bottom end 152 of the
left side panel 112 is attached to the floor panel 102 as shown in
FIG. 3. Further, a bottom end 156 of the front panel 106 is
attached to the floor panel 102 as shown in FIG. 4. Further, a
bottom end 160 of the back panel 108 is attached to the floor panel
102 as shown in FIG. 5.
[0040] In some embodiments, the second end of each vertical panel
in the plurality of vertical panels is attached to the ceiling
panel 104. Accordingly, a top end of each vertical panel in the
plurality of vertical panels is attached to the ceiling panel 104.
As shown in FIG. 1, a top end 150 of the right side panel 110 is
attached to the ceiling panel 104. A top end 154 of the left side
panel 112 is attached to the ceiling panel 104 as shown in FIG. 3.
Further, a top end 158 of the back panel 108 is attached to the
ceiling panel 104 as shown in FIG. 4. Further, a top end 162 of the
back panel 108 is attached to the ceiling panel 104 as shown in
FIG. 5.
[0041] In some embodiments, at least a portion of one or more
vertical walls in the plurality of vertical panels is made of a
material with modifiable light transmission properties, such as a
smart glass and a switchable glass. The light transmission
properties of the material may be altered by applying one or more
of voltage, light or heat. For example, the material may change
from translucent to transparent, thereby changing from blocking
some (or all) wavelengths of light to letting all light pass
through into the modular pod 100. The material with modifiable
light transmission properties may include one or more of
electrochromic, photochromic, thermochromic, suspended-particle,
micro-blind and polymer-dispersed liquid-crystal devices.
[0042] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more
of the floor panel 102, the plurality of vertical panels, and the
ceiling panel 104 includes is made of one or more a wood, leather,
aluminum, glass, plastic and stainless steel. These materials may
provide easily cleanable surfaces. Further, metallic materials,
such as aluminum, may provide a sleek, futuristic look to the
modular pod 100. Further, vinyl plank may be used for the floor
panel 102 to provide an elegant hard wood experience.
[0043] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more
of the floor panel 102, the plurality of vertical panels, and the
ceiling panel 104 includes sound proofing material. The sound
proofing material may be utilized to limit sound from penetrating
into the modular pod 100. Further, the sound proofing material
includes one or more of open cell rubber foam, melamine sponges and
resonant absorbers. Further, one or more of the sound proof paint
and the drywall may be coated on at least a portion of the one or
more of the floor panel 102, the plurality of vertical panels, and
the ceiling panel 104.
[0044] In some embodiments, each of the front panel 106 and the
back panel 108 includes a rectangular section and a plurality of
beveled sections. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, 6, 8-9, the
front panel 106 includes a rectangular section 114 and a plurality
of beveled sections 116. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 1-3, 5-7,
10, the back panel 108 includes a rectangular section 118 and a
plurality of beveled sections 120. FIG. 7 is a side cross-section
view of the modular pod of FIG. 1 taken along a line passing
through the middle of the modular pod 100.
[0045] In some embodiments, each of the right side panel 110, and
the left side panel 112 are generally rectangular-shaped. FIGS. 1
and 6 show the right side panel 110. FIGS. 3, 8-10 show the left
side panel 112.
[0046] The modular pod 100 may further include a chair 124 placed
on the floor panel 102 within the enclosed space. The chair 124 may
comprise conventional components and arrangements found in the
relevant arts. In some embodiments, the chair 124 may be one of a
massage chair, a reclining executive chair, an accent chair, a club
chair, a lounge chair, a camping chair, a wicker chair, a rocking
chair, a barber's chair, a ball chair, a bean bag chair, a beach
chair, a Barcelona chair, a cantilever chair, a deck chair, a
folding chair, an electric chair, inflatable and chair. Further,
massaging equipment may be housed in the chair 124.
[0047] The modular pod 100 may further include a door 126
releasably engaged to a vertical panel (such as the right side
panel 110) in the plurality of vertical panels, wherein the
vertical panel defining a door opening for receiving the door 126
therein.
[0048] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the door 126
is hingedly mounted for movement between an open and a closed
position creating a rotatable engagement with the right side panel
110. FIG. 1 shows the door 126 in closed position. FIG. 6 shows the
door 126 in open position.
[0049] In alternate embodiments, the right side panel 110 includes
rails that allow the door 126 to slide between an open and a closed
position.
[0050] According to an alternate embodiment, the right side panel,
the ceiling panel and the left side panel form a single panel. The
single panel may be just bent to form a dome shaped structure. The
enclosed space may be provided within the dome shaped structure. A
first end of the single panel is attached to a first end the floor
panel, and a second end of the single panel is attached to a second
end of the floor panel. Further, the first end of the single panel
is on the opposite side of the second end of the single panel and
the first end of the floor panel is on the opposite side of the
second end of the floor panel.
[0051] Further, the modular pod 100 may include an audio-visual
equipment installed within the enclosed space. In some embodiments,
the audio-visual equipment includes one or more of a power system
(not shown), network connections (not shown), a display monitor
128, one or more audio speakers (not shown) and at least one audio
system (not shown). For example, the display monitor 128 may be
mounted to the ceiling panel 104 (as shown in FIG. 7) in clear view
of an occupant sitting on the chair 124. For example, the display
monitor 128 may include a 32'' screen. Further, the one or more
audio speakers may be mounted to the display monitor 128 or mounted
closer in proximity to the occupant. In further embodiments,
multiple display monitors may be installed in the modular pod 100.
Further, the audio-visual equipment may include Virtual Reality and
Augmented reality equipment.
[0052] In further embodiments, the audio-visual equipment may
include a computing device. The computing device may be equipped
with the components found in conventional computers such as a
processor, memory, and wireless communication means, providing
network access. The wireless communication means may include a
network adapter accessing a Wi-Fi network or similar wireless local
area networking medium. Further, the computing device may be
accessed using one or more input/output devices such as a touch
keyboard.
[0053] Further, the computing device may provide a user interface
which allows the occupant to access the various available
entertainment/information media. The entertainment/information
media may be stored in the onboard memory of the computer device or
it may be streamed via the Wi-Fi network. The occupant may also be
provided with internet access via the Wi-Fi network. The network
adapter may also be used by phones or laptops possessed by the
occupant to connect to the Internet.
[0054] Yet further, the computing device may facilitate voice
recognition and interaction. Accordingly, the occupant may be given
the option to interact with the computer via voice commands. For
example, the occupant may use voice commands to access temperature,
visual, sound and light controls.
[0055] Moreover, various ports may be provided on the computing
device, whereby the occupant may transfer personal entertainment
media via a thumb drive or similar external memory storage device
into the computing device. In addition, the computing device may
have a card access system that gives business users access to the
privately protected company systems.
[0056] Further, a separate high speed phone charging system, in
electrical communication to a primary battery power source, may
also be provided. Further, an inductive charging device may also be
provided for wireless charging. Accordingly, a device charging
station may be provided which may include multiple power plugs.
[0057] Yet further, the computing device includes non-physical near
field communications (NFC) devices and short range radio frequency
communication protocols such as Bluetooth or similar known
protocols. This may allow the occupant to connect his or her phone,
laptops, or associated peripherals to the computing device.
[0058] In further embodiments, the power for the modular pod 100
may be generated from a renewable source, such as solar panels 122.
Accordingly, the solar panels 122 may be connected to a primary
battery power source in electrical communication to the
electrically operated components in the modular pod 100. Further,
an external power source may also be connected to the primary
battery power source via a power inlet. This may be used to
transfer power between the power outlet and the inlet. Further,
independently housed power generating components known may also be
used to provide power to the modular pod 100. For example, a
gasoline powered generator may be used as the primary power source.
Accordingly, the power generated by the gasoline powered generator
may be stored in the primary battery power source.
[0059] The modular pod 100 may further include ventilation
equipment installed on one or more of the floor panel 102, the
plurality of vertical panels and the ceiling panel 104. In some
embodiments, the ventilation equipment includes an internally
housed air conditioner system (not shown). The air conditioner
system may be used to regulate the air flowing through the modular
pod 100. Further, the air conditioner system may supply both heated
and cooled air into the modular pod 100. The air conditioner system
may also be equipped with a climate control system that may be used
to create the desired climate environment in the modular pod
100.
[0060] Further, at least a portion of the one or more of the floor
panel 102, the plurality of vertical panels, and the ceiling panel
104 includes one or more ducts to allow passage of air from the
interior of the modular pod 100 to the exterior of the modular pod
100 and vice versa. FIG. 4 shows ducts 138 according to a further
embodiment. Further, multiple filters and air cleaners may be
placed in the one or more ducts to remove dust and pollen
particles. Further, the one or more ducts may also be used to
distribute air cooled by the air conditioner system.
[0061] In some embodiments, the interior of the modular pod 100
includes one or more storage spaces, wherein the one or more
storage spaces include one or more of shelfs 130, drawers, slots
132, compartments, and openings. Further, a shelf (not shown) may
be provided under the chair 124 for a bag the size of a standard
carry-on. The one or more storage spaces may be used to store items
owned by an occupant of the modular pod 100.
[0062] In some embodiments, the interior of the modular pod 100
includes a fold down shelf 134 proximal to the chair 124. FIGS. 3,
7-8 show the fold down shelf 134 in retracted position. FIGS. 9-10
show the fold down shelf 134 in fold down position. As shown, the
fold down shelf 134 may provide a desk to an occupant of the
modular pod 100.
[0063] In some embodiments, the interior of the modular pod 100
includes a digital background 136 mounted to the back panel 108 as
shown in FIGS. 8-9. The digital background 136 may include one or
more of a liquid-crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode
(LED) display, and an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.
The digital background 136 may provide digital imagery in the
background of an occupant sitting on the chair 124. For example,
the digital background 136 may allow the occupant to change the
background during online video meetings.
[0064] In some embodiments, the modular pod 100 further includes a
mobile payment device to allow a user to make payment to access the
modular pod 100. Accordingly, the mobile payment device may render
payment services for spending time in the modular pod 100. For
example, mobile payment device may be installed near the door 126.
Accordingly, a user may be required to make the payment via the
mobile payment device. Further, the door may be opened after
payment is received. The mobile payment device may allow the user
to pay via credit/debit cards. Further, the user may schedule a
visit to the modular pod 100. For example, the user may use a
mobile phone application to schedule the visit to the modular pod
100. Further, the user may purchase subscription to access multiple
modular pods installed in various parts of a city.
[0065] In some embodiments, a user may download and install an
application into their personal communication device (such as a
smartphone). Accordingly, the user may enter personal financial
data such as credit card number or bank account number in to the
application, and the user may be automatically charged based on the
time spent using the modular pod 100. A subscription based on
monthly charges for unlimited use may also be provided. Many
variations and modifications to the desired payment method and
system are easily conceivable to those with ordinary skills in the
relevant arts.
[0066] In further embodiments, the modular pod 100 may include
security equipment to protect against vandalism and unwanted
intrusion. For example, an emergency call system may connect an
occupant to law enforcement workers when required. Further,
multiple security cameras may be disposed on the exterior surfaces
of the modular pod 100. Further, the multiple security cameras may
also help provide security to the area surrounding the modular pod
100. Moreover, multiple security cameras may be disposed in the
interior of the modular pod 100. The internal cameras may record
the condition of the modular pod 100 once an occupant leaves; for
example, recording if anything has broken.
[0067] All electronic and electrical components in the modular pod
100 may installed using decoupling hardware to sound proof the
modular pod 100.
[0068] In some embodiments, the modular pod 100 may be portable.
Accordingly, lockable wheels may be installed below the floor panel
102.
[0069] In some embodiments, the modular pod 100 may provide at
least one of a private smoking room, a relaxation room, a massage
room, a music room, an office, a study room, and a gaming room. The
modular pod 100 may be designed to be compact and noticeable.
Further, the modular pod 100 of any suitable shape and dimensions
may be constructed.
[0070] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the exterior face
of the one or more of the plurality of vertical panels may include
one or more billboards. The one or more billboards may be used to
display advertisements. Further, the one or more billboards may be
digital and rewritable, allowing a variety of different
advertisements to be displayed on a single billboard. The one or
more billboards may also be placed on glass wall panels of the
modular pod 100.
[0071] In some embodiments, one or more modular pods are combined
to create a connected assembly. For example, one or more of the
front panel 106, the back panel 108, the right side panel 110, and
the left side panel 112 of the one or more modular pods may be
removed to combine the one or more modular pods. This may be used
to create bigger enclosed spaces.
[0072] According to some embodiments, the right side panel 110, the
ceiling panel 104 and the left side panel 112 form a single panel
140. The single panel 140 is bent to form a dome shaped structure
of a modular pod 1100 shown in FIGS. 11-13. Further, a first end
164 of the single panel 140 is attached to a first end 166 the
floor panel 102. Further, a second end 168 of the single panel 140
is attached to a second end 170 of the floor panel 102, as shown in
FIG. 13. The first end 164 of the single panel 140 is on the
opposite side of the second end 168 of the single panel 140. The
first end 166 of the floor panel 102 is on the opposite side of the
second end 170 of the floor panel 102.
[0073] FIG. 12 is a side cross-section view of the modular pod 1100
taken along the middle of the modular pod 1100. FIG. 13 is a front
cross-section view of the modular pod 1100 taken along the middle
of the modular pod 1100.
[0074] The interior of the modular pod 1100 is generally similar to
the interior of the modular pod 100. Accordingly, the interior of
the modular pod 1100 includes the various components. For example,
the modular pod 1100 may comprise an audio-visual equipment
including a display monitor 142. Further, a chair 144 may be placed
on the floor of the modular pod 1100. Yet further, the modular pod
1100 may include ventilation equipment such as an internally housed
air conditioner system (not shown).
[0075] Further, the modular pod 1100 may be portable. Accordingly,
lockable wheels 146 may be installed below the floor of the modular
pod 1100.
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