U.S. patent application number 16/227423 was filed with the patent office on 2019-07-18 for haptic notification communication system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Immersion Corporation. Invention is credited to Juan Manuel CRUZ-HERNANDEZ, Abdelwahab HAMAM, Robert LACROIX.
Application Number | 20190221086 16/227423 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56096920 |
Filed Date | 2019-07-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190221086 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CRUZ-HERNANDEZ; Juan Manuel ;
et al. |
July 18, 2019 |
HAPTIC NOTIFICATION COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
Abstract
A system is provided that facilitates communication of haptic
notification messages. The system receives a haptic notification
message from a tool within a network, where the haptic notification
message indicates that the tool has detected an event. The system
further determines whether the haptic notification message is a
haptic notification message that is required to be transmitted to
at least one haptic notification device within the network. The
system further transmits the haptic notification message to the at
least one haptic notification device using the network in response
to a determination that the haptic notification message is a haptic
notification message that is required to be transmitted to at least
one haptic notification device, where the at least one haptic
notification device generates a haptic notification in response to
receiving the haptic notification message.
Inventors: |
CRUZ-HERNANDEZ; Juan Manuel;
(Westmount, CA) ; HAMAM; Abdelwahab; (Montreal,
CA) ; LACROIX; Robert; (Saint-Lambert, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Immersion Corporation |
San Jose |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
56096920 |
Appl. No.: |
16/227423 |
Filed: |
December 20, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14739002 |
Jun 15, 2015 |
10210722 |
|
|
16227423 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G08B 6/00 20130101; H04L
67/26 20130101; G05B 19/00 20130101; G05B 23/0272 20130101; B25F
5/00 20130101; H04L 67/12 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G08B 6/00 20060101
G08B006/00; G05B 23/02 20060101 G05B023/02; G05B 19/00 20060101
G05B019/00; H04L 29/08 20060101 H04L029/08; B25F 5/00 20060101
B25F005/00 |
Claims
1. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon
that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to
facilitate communication of haptic notification messages, the
facilitating comprising: receiving a haptic notification message
from a tool of one or more tools within a network, wherein the
haptic notification message indicates that the tool has detected an
event; determining whether the haptic notification message is a
haptic notification message that is required to be transmitted to
at least one haptic notification device of one or more haptic
notification devices within the network; and transmitting the
haptic notification message to the at least one haptic notification
device using the network in response to a determination that the
haptic notification message is a haptic notification message that
is required to be transmitted to at least one haptic notification
device; wherein the at least one haptic notification device
generates a haptic notification in response to receiving the haptic
notification message.
Description
PRIORITY APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/739,002, filed on Jun. 15, 2015, which has
been incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] One embodiment is directed generally to a system, and more
particularly, to a system that communicates notification messages
to a device.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In situations involving power tools, a power tool can have
the capability of detecting an event within its environment and
notifying a user of the power tool of the event. For example, an
electric drill can detect that its battery is about to die, and can
notify a user about the low battery using a visual notification
(such as displaying a visual indication within a handle of the
electric drill) or an audio notification (such as outputting an
audible beeping noise). However, providing a notification to the
user can be very specific to the user and the specific power tool
currently in the hand of the user. Further, problems can arise when
there are different user preferences, different tools, and
different events that require a notification. It can be difficult
to abstract the various notifications for delivery and output.
Further, the problems can become more complex if it is necessary to
notify multiple users simultaneously about an event detected by the
power tool within its environment. Even further, there can be
situations (e.g., a noisy or otherwise chaotic environment) where
an audio notification or a visual notification is not useful to the
user.
SUMMARY
[0004] One embodiment is a system that facilitates communication of
haptic notification messages. The system receives a haptic
notification message from a tool within a network, where the haptic
notification message indicates that the tool has detected an event.
The system further determines whether the haptic notification
message is a haptic notification message that is required to be
transmitted to at least one haptic notification device within the
network. The system further transmits the haptic notification
message to the at least one haptic notification device using the
network in response to a determination that the haptic notification
message is a haptic notification message that is required to be
transmitted to at least one haptic notification device, where the
at least one haptic notification device generates a haptic
notification in response to receiving the haptic notification
message.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] Further embodiments, details, advantages, and modifications
will become apparent from the following detailed description of the
preferred embodiments, which is to be taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a haptic notification
communication system in accordance with one embodiment of the
invention.
[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram of a communication between a
power tool and a haptic notification device, according to an
embodiment of the invention.
[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of the functionality of a
haptic notification communication module, according to an
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0009] In one embodiment, a haptic notification communication
system is provided, where the haptic notification communication
system can provide a framework of interconnected power tools, where
the power tools can communicate with one or more users of the power
tools in order to provide haptic effects which can serve as
notifications (i.e., "haptic notifications") to the users. The
haptic notifications can be provided to the users using haptic
notification devices or the power tools themselves. The haptic
notification communication system, the power tools and/or the
haptic notification devices can be operably connected to each other
via a network, such as a computer network or some other type of
data network. The power tools can be "intelligent" power tools that
can detect their environment and can further provide haptic
notification messages to the haptic notification communication
system via the network.
[0010] The haptic notification communication system can
subsequently send the haptic notification messages to the haptic
notification devices, where the haptic notification devices can
generate haptic effects, such as vibrotactile haptic effects,
deformation haptic effects, or electrostatic friction haptic
effects. Alternatively, or additionally, the haptic notification
communication system can send the haptic notification messages to
the other power tools, where the other power tools can also
generate haptic effects, such as vibrotactile haptic effects,
deformation haptic effects, or electrostatic friction haptic
effects. The haptic notification communication system can further
determine whether a haptic notification message received from a
power tool is a type of haptic notification message that should be
propagated to the haptic notification devices and/or the power
tools. The haptic notification communication system can also
determine which haptic notification devices and/or power tools the
haptic notification messages are propagated to.
[0011] Thus, in one embodiment, a first power tool detects an event
that the first power tool should provide a notification to a first
user and a second user. The first user and the second user each
have a device registered with a network. As an example, the first
user has a second power tool registered with a network, and the
second user has a wearable device registered within the network.
The first power tool sends a haptic notification message to the
second power tool of the first user and the wearable device of the
second user. The second power tool and the wearable device each
receive the haptic notification message, identify a notification
identifier included within the haptic notification message, and
generate a haptic notification (e.g., a haptic effect), where the
first user experiences the haptic notification through the second
power tool, and the second user experiences the haptic notification
through the wearable device.
[0012] For example, according to an example embodiment, a power
tool (e.g., an electric drill) detects that its battery is about to
run out of power. The power tool sends a haptic notification
message to the haptic notification communication system via a
network, where the haptic notification message notifies a user that
the battery of the power tool is about to run out of power, and
where the haptic notification message is intended to be sent to a
first user and a second user. The haptic notification communication
system can determine that the haptic notification message is a type
of haptic notification message that should be propagated to the
first user and the second user. The haptic notification
communication system can further determine that the first user and
second user each have a haptic notification device registered on
the network, where the first user prefers to receive haptic
notifications from a haptic notification device that is a wearable
device, and the second user prefers to receive haptic notifications
from a haptic notification device that is a mobile device.
[0013] The haptic notification communication system subsequently
sends the haptic notification message via the network to the first
user, where the first user receives a haptic notification via the
haptic notification device that is a wearable device. More
specifically, the wearable device receives the haptic notification
message and generates a haptic effect based on the received haptic
notification message, where the haptic effect notifies the first
user of the detected event. The haptic notification communication
system further sends the haptic notification message via the
network to the second user, where the second user receives a haptic
notification via the haptic notification device that is a mobile
device. More specifically, the mobile device receives the haptic
notification message and generates a haptic effect based on the
received haptic notification message, where the haptic effect
notifies the second user of the detected event.
[0014] As another example, according to another example embodiment,
a power tool (e.g., an electric pan) detects that a pre-determined
amount of time (e.g., 10 minutes) has elapsed since the power tool
was initiated. The power tool sends a haptic notification message
to the haptic notification communication system via a network,
where the haptic notification message notifies a user that the
pre-determined amount of time has expired, and further indicates
that food may burn if the power tool is not turned off, where the
haptic notification message is intended to be sent to a first user
and a second user.
[0015] The haptic notification communication system can further
determine that the haptic notification message is a type of haptic
notification message that should be propagated to the first user
and the second user. The haptic notification communication system
sends the haptic notification message via the network to the first
user, where the first user receives a haptic notification via the
haptic notification device that is a wearable device. More
specifically, the wearable device receives the haptic notification
message and generates a haptic effect based on the received haptic
notification message, where the haptic effect notifies the first
user of the detected event. The haptic notification communication
system further sends the haptic notification message via the
network to the second user, where the second user receives a haptic
notification via another power tool (e.g., an electric knife). More
specifically, the power tool receives the haptic notification
message and generates a haptic effect based on the received haptic
notification message, where the haptic effect notifies the second
user of the detected event.
[0016] As another example, according to another example embodiment,
a first worker is using a power tool (e.g., electric drill) to
create a hole within a piece of wood. The wood is not as thick as
anticipated, and a component of the power tool (e.g., a drill bit
of the electrical drill) is about to penetrate the piece of wood.
Further, a second worker is standing behind the piece of wood. The
power tool sends a haptic notification message to a network to
cause the power tool and a wearable haptic notification device of
the second user to generate a haptic notification. Both the first
worker and the second worker receive haptic notifications. The
first worker receives a haptic notification via the power tool. The
second worker receives a haptic notification via the wearable
haptic notification device.
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a haptic notification
communication system 10, in accordance with one embodiment of the
invention. Haptic notification communication system 10 can be any
type of computer system, such as a server, that provides
functionality for facilitating communication of haptic notification
messages, as described below in greater detail. Although shown as a
single system, the functionality of haptic notification
communication system 10 can be implemented as a distributed system.
Haptic notification communication system 10 includes a processor 11
configured to process information, where processor 11 can be
coupled to a bus or other communication mechanism (not illustrated
in FIG. 1) that is configured to communicate information. Processor
11 may be any type of general or specific purpose processor. Haptic
notification communication system 10 further includes a memory 14
for storing information and instructions to be executed by
processor 11. Memory 14 can be comprised of any combination of
random access memory ("RAM"), read only memory ("ROM"), static
storage such as a magnetic or optical disk, or any other type of
computer-readable medium.
[0018] A computer-readable medium may be any available medium that
can be accessed by processor 11 and may include both a volatile and
nonvolatile medium, a removable and non-removable medium, a
communication medium, and a storage medium. A communication medium
may include computer readable instructions, data structures,
program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a
carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and may include any
other form of an information delivery medium known in the art. A
storage medium may include RAM, flash memory, ROM, erasable
programmable read-only memory ("EPROM"), electrically erasable
programmable read-only memory ("EEPROM"), registers, hard disk, a
removable disk, a compact disk read-only memory ("CD-ROM"), or any
other form of a storage medium known in the art.
[0019] In one embodiment, memory 14 stores software modules that
provide functionality when executed by processor 11. The modules
include a haptic notification communication module 16 that
facilitates communication of haptic notification messages, as
disclosed in more detail below. In certain embodiments, haptic
notification communication module 16 can comprise a plurality of
modules, where each module provides specific individual
functionality for facilitating communication of haptic notification
messages. Haptic notification communication system 10 will
typically include one or more additional application modules 18 to
include additional functionality, such as Integrator.TM. software
by Immersion Corporation.
[0020] Haptic notification communication system 10 further includes
a communication device 19, such as a network interface card, to
provide mobile wireless network communication, such as infrared,
radio, Wi-Fi, or cellular network communication. In other
embodiments, communication device 19 provides a wired network
connection, such as an Ethernet connection or a modem.
[0021] Haptic notification communication system 10 is further
operably coupled to network 20. Network 20 is a computer network
that can be directly connected to the Internet, indirectly
connected to the Internet, or not connected to the Internet at all.
Network 20 can be local access network ("LAN"), a wide access
network ("WAN"), a personal area network ("PAN"), a home area
network ("HAN"), a campus area network ("CAN"), a metropolitan area
network ("MAN"), a global area network ("GAN"), a storage area
network ("SAN"), a virtual private network ("VPN"), a wireless
network, a wireless LAN, a HomePNA, a power line communication
network, a G.hn network, a Bluetooth network, an optical fiber
network, an Ethernet network, an active networking network, a
client-server network, a peer-to-peer network, a bus network, a
star network, a ring network, a mesh network, a star-bus network, a
tree network, a hierarchical topology network, or any other type of
computer network that is known in the art.
[0022] According to the illustrated embodiment, power tools 30, 40,
and 50 are also operably coupled to network 20. Power tools 30, 40,
and 50 are power tools that are configured to be actuated by a
non-manual power source or mechanism, such as an electrical power
source or electrical mechanism, and are further configured to
detect an external or internal event. Power tools 30, 40, and 50
can be further configured to send haptic notification messages
within network 20. Examples of power tools can include: electric
drills, electric saws, electric nail guns, electric knives,
electric hammers, electric pans, etc. A power tool can also be
identified as a "tool" or a "device." Power tools are further
described below in greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 2. One
of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate that the
number of power tools operably coupled to network 20 is an example
number according to the example embodiment, and that in alternate
embodiments, any number of power tools can be operably coupled to
network 20.
[0023] According to the illustrated embodiment, haptic notification
devices 60 and 70 are also operably coupled to network 20. Haptic
notification devices 60 and 70 are devices that are "haptically
enabled," meaning they include a mechanism to generate haptic
effects which can serve as haptic notifications to a user. Haptic
notification devices 60 and 70 can be further configured to receive
haptic notification messages from power tools 30, 40, and 50 via
network 20, and to generate haptic notifications in response to,
and based on, the haptic notification messages. One type of a
haptic notification device can be a mobile device. Examples of
mobile devices can include: smartphones; tablets; laptop computers;
personal computers; personal digital assistants ("PDAs"), etc.
Another type of haptic notification device can be a wearable
device. Examples of wearable devices can include: wrist bands,
headbands, eyeglasses, rings, leg bands, arrays integrated into
clothing, other types of device that a user may wear on a body or
that can be held by a user, etc. Haptic notification devices are
further described below in greater detail in conjunction with FIG.
2. One of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate that
the number of haptic notification devices operably coupled to
network 20 is an example number according to the example
embodiment, and that, in alternate embodiments, any number of
haptic notification devices can be operably coupled to network 20.
Further, in an alternate embodiment, a haptic notification device
can be replaced by a power tool, where the power tool is configured
to receive haptic notification messages from power tools 30, 40,
and 50 via network 20, and to generate haptic notifications in
response to, and based on, the haptic notification messages.
[0024] According to an embodiment, haptic notification
communication system 10 can register power tools 30, 40, and 50
with network 20 by assigning a unique power tool identifier to
power tools 30, 40, and 50. In one embodiment, the unique power
tool identifier can be an Internet protocol ("IP") address of a
power tool. Further, according to the embodiment, haptic
notification communication system 10 can further register haptic
notification devices 60 and 70 with network 20 by assigning a
unique haptic notification device identifier to haptic notification
devices 60 and 70. In one embodiment, the unique haptic
notification device identifier can be an IP address of the haptic
notification device.
[0025] Further, according to an embodiment, haptic notification
communication system 10 can facilitate communication of haptic
notification messages between power tools 30, 40, and 50, and
haptic notification devices 60 and 70. More specifically, haptic
notification communication system 10 can receive haptic
notifications messages that are sent by power tools 30, 40, and 50
via network 20. Haptic notification communication system 10 can
further determine whether the haptic notification messages are
required to be propagated, or otherwise transmitted, to other
entities within network 20 (e.g., any of power tools 30, 40, and
50, and haptic notification devices 60 and 70). In one embodiment,
each haptic notification message includes a notification type, and
haptic notification communication system 10 can determine the
notification type of each haptic notification message. Haptic
notification communication system 10 can further compare the
determined notification type of each haptic notification message
with a pre-defined set of notification types, where the pre-defined
set of notification types defines a set of haptic notification
messages that are required to be transmitted to one, some, or all
of the other entities within network 20 (e.g., any of power tools
30, 40, and 50, and haptic notification devices 60 and 70) via
network 20. In response to a determination that the haptic
notification messages are required to be transmitted, haptic
notification communication system 10 can further send the haptic
notification messages to any of the other entities within network
20 (e.g., any of power tools 30, 40, and 50, and haptic
notification devices 60 and 70) via network 20. The communication
of haptic notification messages is further described below in
greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[0026] In accordance with the embodiment, haptic notification
communication system can establish a communication protocol via a
format of the haptic notification messages. In one embodiment, a
format of a haptic notification message can include a notification
identifier that is a unique identifier that uniquely identifies the
haptic notification message. Further, according to the embodiment,
the notification identifier can include a notification type
identifier that identifies a notification type of the haptic
notification message. Further, in one embodiment, the format of the
haptic notification message can further include one or more haptic
notification device identifiers that identify intended recipients
of the haptic notification message, where the intended recipients
are haptic notification devices. Additionally, or alternatively,
the format of the haptic notification message can further include
one or more power tool identifiers that identify intended
recipients of the haptic notification message, where the intended
receipts are other power tools. A format of a haptic notification
message is further described below in greater detail in conjunction
with FIG. 2.
[0027] In one embodiment, as previously described, haptic
notification communication system 10 can compare a determined
notification type of each haptic notification message with a
pre-defined set of notification types. According to the embodiment,
haptic notification communication system 10 can define the set of
notification types to include types of notifications that notify a
user of an event involving a power tool that could require a user's
attention. An example set of notification type that can be defined
by haptic notification communication system 10 as a pre-defined set
of notification types can include the following notifications in
one example embodiment: a notification of a status of a power tool
(e.g., battery dying, power tool overheating etc.); a notification
to stop drilling, or performing some other action, after an
electric drill, or some other power tool, has reached a target
distance; a notification to prevent the user from performing an
action with a power tool (e.g., stripping a screw, etc.); a
safety-based notification (e.g., the power tool is about to break,
a user's thumb is too close to the power tool, etc.); a
notification that a component of a power tool (e.g., bit, saw,
etc.) is dull, or otherwise needs to be replaced; a notification
that a component of a power tool (e.g., screw, etc.), is not a
correct size (e.g., too long, etc.) for an intended action; a
notification that an obstruction (e.g., a knot, a nail, etc.) has
been detected by a power tool; or a notification that a component
of a power tool (e.g., bit, screw, saw, etc.) is overheating. A
pre-defined set of notification types is further described below in
greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[0028] Further, in accordance with the embodiment, an entity within
network 20 (e.g., any of power tools 30, 40, and 50, and haptic
notification devices 60 and 70) can generate an appropriate haptic
notification (e.g., an appropriate haptic effect) to a user based
on the received haptic notification message. The entity can receive
the haptic notification message and determine a notification
identifier of the haptic notification message. The entity can
further determine a notification type of the haptic notification
message, where the notification type can be included within the
notification identifier. The entity can then select an appropriate
haptic notification (e.g., an appropriate haptic effect) based on
the determined notification type, and can then generate the
selected haptic notification (e.g., the selected haptic effect) to
the user. The generation of the haptic notification is further
described below in greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram of a communication between a
power tool 210 and a haptic notification device 220, according to
an embodiment of the invention. Power tool 210 is a power tool as
previously described in conjunction with FIG. 1. In one embodiment,
power tool 210 can be identical to one of power tools 30, 40, or 50
of FIG. 1. Power tool 210 includes a processor 211 configured to
process information, where processor 211 can be coupled to a bus or
other communication mechanism (not illustrated in FIG. 2) that is
configured to communicate information. Processor 211 may be any
type of general or specific purpose processor. Power tool 210
further includes a communication device 212, such as a network
interface card, to provide mobile wireless network communication,
such as infrared, radio, Wi-Fi, or cellular network communication.
In other embodiments, communication device 212 provides a wired
network connection, such as an Ethernet connection or a modem.
[0030] Power tool 210 further includes a sensor 213. Sensor 213 can
be configured to detect a form of energy, or other physical
property, such as, but not limited to, sound, movement,
acceleration, bio signals, distance, flow,
force/pressure/strain/bend, humidity, linear position,
orientation/inclination, radio frequency, rotary position, rotary
velocity, manipulation of a switch, temperature, vibration, or
visible light intensity. Sensor 213 can further be configured to
convert the detected energy, or other physical property, into an
electrical signal, or any signal that represents virtual sensor
information. Sensor 213 can be any device, such as, but not limited
to, an accelerometer, an electrocardiogram, an
electroencephalogram, an electromyograph, an electrooculogram, an
electropalatograph, a galvanic skin response sensor, a capacitive
sensor, a hall effect sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic
sensor, a pressure sensor, a fiber optic sensor, a flexion sensor
(or bend sensor), a force-sensitive resistor, a load cell, a
LuSense CPS.sup.2 155, a miniature pressure transducer, a piezo
sensor, a strain gage, a hygrometer, a linear position touch
sensor, a linear potentiometer (or slider), a linear variable
differential transformer, a compass, an inclinometer, a magnetic
tag (or radio frequency identification tag), a rotary encoder, a
rotary potentiometer, a gyroscope, an on-off switch, a temperature
sensor (such as a thermometer, thermocouple, resistance temperature
detector, thermistor, or temperature-transducing integrated
circuit), microphone, photometer, altimeter, bio monitor, camera,
or a light-dependent resistor. In alternate embodiments, tool 210
can include one or more additional sensors, in addition to sensor
213 (not illustrated in FIG. 2). In some of these embodiments,
sensor 213 and the one or more additional sensors may be part of a
sensor array, or some other type of collection of sensors.
[0031] In one embodiment, power tool 210 can further include an
actuator 214. Processor 211 may transmit a haptic signal associated
with a generated haptic effect to actuator 214, which in turn
outputs haptic effects such as vibrotactile haptic effects,
electrostatic friction haptic effects, or deformation haptic
effects. Actuator 214 includes an actuator drive circuit. Actuator
214 may be, for example, an electric motor, an electro-magnetic
actuator, a voice coil, a shape memory alloy, an electro-active
polymer, a solenoid, an eccentric rotating mass motor ("ERM"), a
linear resonant actuator ("LRA"), a piezoelectric actuator, a high
bandwidth actuator, an electroactive polymer actuator ("EAP
actuator"), a macro fiber composite actuator ("MFC actuator"), an
electrostatic friction display, or an ultrasonic vibration
generator. In alternate embodiments, tool 210 can include one or
more additional actuators, in addition to actuator 214 (not
illustrated in FIG. 2). Actuator 214 is an example of a haptic
output device, where a haptic output device is a device configured
to output haptic effects, such as vibrotactile haptic effects,
electrostatic friction haptic effects, or deformation haptic
effects, in response to a drive signal. In alternate embodiments,
actuator 214 can be replaced by some other type of haptic output
device.
[0032] Haptic notification device 220 is a device that is
haptically enabled and that generates haptic notifications in
response to, and based on, received haptic notification messages as
previously described in conjunction with FIG. 1. In one embodiment,
haptic notification device 220 can be identical to one of haptic
notification devices 60 or 70 of FIG. 1. Haptic notification device
220 includes a processor 221 configured to process information,
where processor 221 can be coupled to a bus or other communication
mechanism (not illustrated in FIG. 2) that is configured to
communicate information. Processor 221 may be any type of general
or specific purpose processor. Haptic notification device 220
further includes a communication device 222, such as a network
interface card, to provide mobile wireless network communication,
such as infrared, radio, Wi-Fi, or cellular network communication.
In other embodiments, communication device 222 provides a wired
network connection, such as an Ethernet connection or a modem.
[0033] In one embodiment, haptic notification device 220 can
include a display 223 such as a Liquid Crystal Display ("LCD"), for
displaying a graphical representation or user interface to a user.
The display 223 may be a touch-sensitive input device, such as a
touch screen, configured to send and receive signals from processor
221, and may be a multi-touch touch screen.
[0034] Haptic notification device 220 further includes an actuator
224. Processor 221 may transmit a haptic signal associated with a
generated haptic effect to actuator 224, which in turn outputs
haptic effects such as vibrotactile haptic effects, electrostatic
friction haptic effects, or deformation haptic effects. In
alternate embodiments, haptic notification device 220 can include
one or more additional actuators, in addition to actuator 224 (not
illustrated in FIG. 2). Actuator 224 is an example of a haptic
output device, where a haptic output device is a device configured
to output haptic effects, such as vibrotactile haptic effects,
electrostatic friction haptic effects, or deformation haptic
effects, in response to a drive signal. In alternate embodiments,
actuator 224 can be replaced by some other type of haptic output
device.
[0035] According to an embodiment, sensor 213 of power tool 210 can
be configured to detect an event. More specifically, sensor 213 can
be configured to detect an environment of power tool 210 and can
further be configured to detect an event that occurs within the
environment. The event can be external to power tool 210 or
internal to power tool 210. A list of example events that can be
detected by sensor 213 of power tool 210 can include the following
events, in one example embodiment: a change in one or more
characteristics of power tool 210 or a component of power tool 210
(e.g., a battery of power tool 210 dying, power tool 210
overheating, power tool 210 is about to break, etc.); a movement of
power tool 210 to a target distance; an occurrence of an object
within a pre-determined distance of power tool 210; a disparity in
size of a component of power tool 210 in relation to an intended
action of power tool 210; or an occurrence of a user within a
pre-determined distance of power tool 210.
[0036] An expanded list of example events is provided below, in
accordance with an example embodiment:
TABLE-US-00001 Novice Problem Professional solution Solutions
Degree/source of frustration Drilling a Maintain the drill in a
Drilling a You have to align on x and y straight line straight
line. This skill straight line is axis while moving forward in the
(hole) increases with practice a big problem z axis. Bubble and
laser solution for novice only align the drill on the y-axis.
users, most Some drills are not ninety likely they will degrees by
nature, which not get it from complicates alignment. the first time
If the hole is not straight, this (they would could cause problems
when probably aligning two holes together need more than one try)
Drilling a Align bit with screw Same as The screw will not go in
straight. straight line horizontally (or above It might cause
damages and it (screw) vertically depending on might not go in
completely, it will the direction of where be tilted. the drilling
is required) Stripping a screw into the wood Drilling to a Place
tape on the bit, Rely mostly Dust could impair vision. certain
point and drill fast at the on vision. Will Moreover the tape on
the screw (e.g. 2 inches beginning slower near not be able to might
fly off. deep) the end. get precise measurement Stripping the Make
sure the bit is Go with a Difficult to get the screw out screw
completely inside the slower once it is in. screw and that it is
speed. Stop straight. Rely on noise and check and jitter of the
drill to constantly see when to stop. (High quality bits and screws
reduce damaging the screws). Drill slips out of Align bit with
screw N/A Injuries mainly. The drill could the screw while Make
sure the bit is cause damage to the wood operating. completely
inside the (when it drills in a different screw. place). Use sharp
bits. Going slower sometimes Screw (or bit) For studs, when hitting
N/A N/A is too long and a concrete wall, the it penetrates drill
stops going through the through and they have wood (or stud) to
remove it and start fresh (new hole). Sometimes they see the screw
going out the other side (when it is not a stud). Dull bits or
Change the bit or Usually they Good bit fitted perfectly there is
blades blade. Sometimes this would not do less vibrations, it is
more could be detected anything comfortable, and it screws easily
visually, other times because they (for holes). For screws dull
bits from the extra force own one set will strip the screw faster
they have to apply (this of With an electric saw, dull blades could
also lead to accessories make it jitters or vibrates causing
breaking the bit). the cut to become difficult. Missing the When
the drill rotates Novice users The intended place to drill is the
stud location continuously without are stud, not the empty space
and drilling in resistance, they would sometimes between them. A
stud finder gyprock know it's a wrong unaware they would help but
it is an extra place and should have to drill device they have to
carry on change the location in the stud. them. They use plastic
housing for the screws. Overdriving Requires a really low Probably
not The screw goes inside the wall screw in speed setting (clutch)
a real causing a slight damage in the drywall to prevent the
concern for wall overdrive. On the other novice users. hand ply
wood needs a high clutch setting Centering bit Nice when the chuck
N/A Definitely a problem for novice into a chuck blocks making a
users. sound. They rotate the chuck until they here the click.
Breaking the Replace the bit after it Placing the Sometimes a bit
is not as strong bit while drilling is broken. bit into the as it
should be, especially when Professionals usually chuck digging
through concrete. have separate drill with incorrectly by bit set
for drilling into novice users concrete. Bur for a increases the
hole or two and for chances of convenience, they use breaking the
the regular set. Hence bit. some will break. Encountering a No easy
way to check Same as The drill could hit the nail solid nail in the
for nails. Visual professionals causing injuries. wood while
alertness sometimes drilling help Forgetting to They hear or feel
the N/A If they don't hear the vibrations lock the drill vibration
when of the drill, this could drain the switch inserting the drill
on battery their belt then turn it off Battery dying There is no
Novice users The one that dies workaround for this, usually
instantaneously provide batteries eventually acquire two maximum
power up until it dies. die. There are two batteries with The
maximum power is useful types, however, one their drill to for
certain jobs. The other type that dies gradually and replace one
reduces the power gradually so one that dies when the the drill
will not be as powerful instantaneously. Some other dies.
throughout, but if you need a professionals prefer small push like
drilling half a the former, while screw it will be useful. others
prefer the latter. Heated screws You need to go slower N/A When
drilling through metal, or and bits. at the beginning then using
metal screws, the end of gradually increase the the bit becomes too
hot and it speed (metal screws could get ruined. heat the bit). LED
light Some drills have better N/A LED is placed near the chuck
location for LED light sometimes rendering it to view working areas
ineffective. It is better if it is in dark places placed near the
battery. Drilling Replace a bit with Probably will Knot in the wood
difficult to go (screwing) a stronger one. keep trying through knot
in the with the It'll be harder on the saw and wood same bit. If a
harder on the drill battery dies while operating rotating replace
and keep going. Safety Use goggles and Some uses There are some
dangerous Concerns precautions for e.g. goggles situation that
could be avoided when operating the with experience. Most novice
electrical saw. users are afraid to operate a Gloves are NOT saw,
for safety reasons. recommended Cutting Comes almost natural Few
novice Too much deviation will ruin the Straight with a with
practice. Always users operate wood or metal they are cutting.
circular saw mark the wood with a the saw for While deviation the
circular saw chalk or pencil. There big cuts. For will jump back at
you. Without a are also alignment small cuts, guide it is very hard
to cut a markers that you put cutting straight line. on the wood.
Some straight is not professionals use T- a big Square, ply wood
concern. straight peace for alignment with clamps on the wood. Some
hobbyists use saws with straight laser beams. Encountering a No
easy way to check Same as The blades are intended for solid nail in
the for nails. Visual professionals wood (There are other blades
wood while alertness sometimes designed to cut metal). The sawing
help metal nail will ruin the blade. The spark produced from
cutting the nail is dangerous to the eyes. Cutting shapes N/A N/A
N/A with jigsaw Nail gun: After each jobs Novice users The nail
will go through the forgetting to professionals should use the wood
if it is long, the nail could change nail change the nails hammer
injure the worker if his/her hand size for the according to the new
mainly, not is behind the wood current job job the nail gun Nail
gun hitting The worker should pay Novice users The nail would break
the knot a knot in the visual attention for use the and could
injure the worker wood knots in the wood hammer mainly, not the
nail gun Biometric N/A N/A N/A signal related to user of power tool
Environment signal related to environment of user of power tool
(e.g., carbon dioxide, heat generated from fire, etc.)
[0037] In response to the event detected by sensor 213, power tool
210 can generate haptic notification message 230. Haptic
notification message 230 is a message that indicates that sensor
213 of power tool 210 has detected the specific event. In
accordance with an embodiment, haptic notification message 230 can
include a notification identifier that uniquely identifies haptic
notification message 230. According to the embodiment, the
notification identifier can include a notification type identifier
that identifies a notification type of haptic notification message
230, where a notification type identifies a type of event detected
by power tool 210, and where the notification type further
identifies the type of notification that is to be communicated to a
user. Further, in accordance with an embodiment, haptic
notification message 230 can include one or more haptic
notification device identifiers that uniquely identify one or more
haptic notification devices that are intended recipients.
Additionally, or alternatively, haptic notification message 230 can
include one or more power tool identifiers that uniquely identify
one or more power tools that are intended recipients. An example
format of haptic notification message 230 is provided below, in
accordance with an example embodiment: [notification identifier
(including notification type identifier)
[0038] haptic notification device identifier 1
[0039] haptic notification device identifier 2
[0040] haptic notification device identifier x
[0041] power tool identifier 1
[0042] power tool identifier 2
[0043] power tool identifier x]
[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, haptic notification message
230 can include a haptic notification device identifier that
uniquely identifies haptic notification device 220.
[0045] After generating haptic notification message 230,
communication device 212 of power tool 210 can send haptic
notification message 230 to a haptic notification communication
system (not illustrated in FIG. 2) via a network (also not
illustrated in FIG. 2), where power tool 210 and haptic
notification device 220 are registered with the network. After
receiving haptic notification message 230, the haptic notification
communication system can determine whether haptic notification
message 230 should be transmitted to one or more devices that are
registered within the network, such as haptic notification device
220.
[0046] In one embodiment, the haptic notification communication
system can retrieve a notification type identifier from a
notification identifier of haptic notification message 230, and can
further determine a notification type of haptic notification
message 230 based on the received notification type identifier. The
haptic notification communication system can further compare the
determined notification type of haptic notification message 230
with a pre-defined set of notification types, where the pre-defined
set of notification types defines a set of haptic notification
messages that should be transmitted to a haptic notification device
(such as haptic notification device 220) via the network. In one
embodiment, the set of haptic notification messages that should be
transmitted to a haptic notification device can include haptic
notification messages that notify users of events detected by a
sensor of a power tool (e.g., sensor 213 of power tool 210) that
are deemed to be significant events that require a haptic
notification be sent to one or more users. Such significant events
can include the example events previously described above, and
thus, the set of haptic notification messages can include haptic
notification messages that notify users of the example events
previously described above. If the determined notification type is
within the pre-defined set of notification types, the haptic
notification communication system can determine that haptic
notification message 230 should be transmitted to one or more
devices. If the determined notification type is not within the
pre-defined set of notification types, the haptic notification
communication system can determine that haptic notification message
230 should not be transmitted to one or more devices.
[0047] Further, if haptic notification message 230 should be
transmitted to one or more devices, the haptic notification
communication system can also determine which device (or devices)
that is (or are) registered within the network should receive
haptic notification message 230. In certain embodiments, the haptic
notification communication system can retrieve one or more haptic
notification device identifiers included within haptic notification
message 230 and can further determine to send haptic notification
message 230 to one or more haptic notification devices uniquely
identified by the one or more haptic notification device
identifiers. In the illustrated embodiment, the haptic notification
communication system can retrieve a haptic notification device
identifier from haptic notification message 230 that uniquely
identifies haptic notification device 220 and can determine to send
haptic notification message 230 to haptic notification device 220.
Additionally, or alternatively, the haptic notification
communication system can retrieve one or more power tool
identifiers included within haptic notification message 230 and can
further determine to send haptic notification message 230 to one or
more power tools uniquely identified by the one or more power tool
identifiers. In alternate embodiments, the haptic notification
communication system can further determine a notification type of
haptic notification message 230 based on a received notification
type identifier, and can further determine to send haptic
notification message 230 to one or more haptic notification devices
and/or one or more power tools based on the notification type of
haptic notification message. In the illustrated embodiment, the
haptic notification communication system can retrieve a
notification type identifier from haptic notification message 230
that identifies a notification type of haptic notification message,
can further determine that the notification type indicates that
haptic notification message should be transmitted to haptic
notification device 220, and can further determine to send haptic
notification message 230 to haptic notification device 220.
[0048] Once the haptic notification communication system determines
that haptic notification message 230 should be transmitted to
haptic notification device 220, the haptic notification
communication system sends haptic notification message 230 to
haptic notification device 220 via the network. Upon receiving
haptic notification message 230 via communication device 222,
haptic notification device 220 generates a haptic notification that
can be experienced by a user. More specifically, processor 221 of
haptic notification device 220 generates a haptic signal, sends the
haptic signal to actuator 224, and causes actuator 224 to generate
one or more haptic effects. Example haptic effects include: a
vibrotactile haptic effect that causes a vibration within haptic
notification device 220; a deformation haptic effect that causes a
deformation within haptic notification device 220; or an
electrostatic friction haptic effect that causes a force to be
applied to haptic notification device 200. In one embodiment,
processor 221 can cause actuator 224 to generate one or more
specific haptic effects based on a notification type of haptic
notification message 230.
[0049] In an alternate embodiment, power tool 210 can receive,
rather than send, haptic notification message 230 via communication
device 212. In this alternate embodiment, power tool 210 can
generate a haptic notification that can be experienced by a user.
More specifically, processor 211 of power tool 210 generates a
haptic signal, sends the haptic signal to actuator 214, and causes
actuator 214 to generate one or more haptic effects. Example haptic
effects include: a vibrotactile haptic effect that causes a
vibration within power tool 210 (e.g., within a motor or handle of
power tool 210); a deformation haptic effect that causes a
deformation within power tool 210 (e.g., within a handle of power
tool 210); or an electrostatic friction haptic effect that causes a
force to be applied to power tool 210 (e.g., within a handle of
power tool 210). In one embodiment, processor 211 can cause
actuator 214 to generate one or more specific haptic effects based
on a notification type of haptic notification message 230.
[0050] Thus, according to an example embodiment, a plurality of
users are registered with a specific network. The registration can
be done based on a presence of the users within a specified
coverage of the network. More specifically, each user can be
registered through his or her preferred haptic notification device
(e.g., mobile device, wearable device, etc.), where each user
possesses the corresponding haptic notification device, and where
each haptic notification device is registered with the network
using a unique haptic notification device identifier. As the users
are working, a safety hazard that is caused by a power tool (e.g.,
a jackhammer) is also detected by the power tool. The power tool
can send haptic notification messages that alert the users
regarding the safety hazard to the users registered with the
network. Each user registered within the network can receive a
haptic notification informing the user of the safety hazard on his
or her preferred haptic notification device.
[0051] According to another example embodiment, a first user, a
second user, and a third user can share a single power tool (e.g.,
an electric saw) within a construction site. The first, second, and
third users each also possess a haptic notification device
registered with a network. Upon a detection of the power tool that
its battery is dying, the power tool can send a haptic notification
message to the haptic notification devices of the first, second,
and third users within the network. Each haptic notification device
can generate a haptic notification that is experienced by the first
user, the second user, and the third user.
[0052] According to another example embodiment, a first user is
using a power tool (e.g. an electric drill) to power drill through
a wood piece, and the second user is painting the wood piece from
the other side, where the power tool, the first user, and the
second user are connected within a network. The power tool can
detect a thickness of the wood piece, and can determine when the
end of the wood piece would be reached before a component (e.g., a
drill bit) of the power tool penetrates to the other side of the
wood piece. Based on the proximity of the two users to the power
tool, the power tool can decide to send a haptic notification
message to the two users when it is about to penetrate to the other
side of the wood piece. The power tool can determine there is no
need to send the haptic notification message to other users on the
network, because the proximity of the other users, in relation to
the power tool, is such that the other users will not be affected
by the power tool penetrating the other side of the wood piece.
Based on the haptic notification message, the first user can
receive a haptic notification via a handle of the power tool, and
the second user can receive a separate haptic notification via a
wearable device. In this example embodiment, the first user can
stop the drilling in response to receiving the haptic notification,
and the second user can take precautions in case the drill bit
reaches the other side of the wood piece in response to receiving
the haptic notification.
[0053] FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of the functionality of a
haptic notification communication module (such as haptic
notification communication module 16 of FIG. 1), according to an
embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, the functionality
of FIG. 3 is implemented by software stored in memory or other
computer-readable or tangible media, and executed by a processor.
In other embodiments, the functionality may be performed by
hardware (e.g., through the use of an application specific
integrated circuit ("ASIC"), a programmable gate array ("PGA"), a
field programmable gate array ("FPGA"), etc.), or any combination
of hardware and software. In certain embodiments, some of the
functionality can be omitted.
[0054] The flow begins and proceeds to 310. At 310, one or more
power tools are registered with a network. In certain embodiments,
one or more unique power tool identifiers can be assigned to the
one or more power tools. Further, in some of these embodiments, a
power tool identifier can be an IP address of a power tool. Even
further, in some of these embodiments, a power tool can be one of:
an electric drill; an electric saw; an electric nail gun; an
electric knife; or an electric hammer. The flow then proceeds to
320.
[0055] At 320, one or more haptic notification devices are
registered with the network. In certain embodiments, one or more
unique haptic notification device identifiers can be assigned to
the one or more haptic notification devices. Further, in some of
these embodiments, a haptic notification device identifier can be
an IP address of a haptic notification device. Even further, in
some of these embodiments, a haptic notification device can be one
of: a mobile device configured to generate haptic effects, a
wearable device configured to generate haptic effects, or another
power tool. The flow then proceeds to 330.
[0056] At 330, a haptic notification message is received from a
power tool of the one or more power tools within the network, where
the haptic notification message indicates that the power tool has
detected an event. In certain embodiments, the haptic notification
message can include a notification identifier. Further, in some of
those embodiments, the haptic notification message can further
include at least one haptic notification device identifier. Even
further, in certain embodiments, the power tool can also generate a
haptic notification in response to the power tool detecting the
event. In some embodiments, the event can be one of: a change in
one or more characteristics of the power tool or a component of the
power tool; a movement of the power tool to a target distance; an
occurrence of an object within a pre-determined distance of the
power tool; a disparity in size of a component of the power tool in
relation to an intended action of the power tool; or an occurrence
of a user within a pre-determined distance of the power tool. The
flow then proceeds to 340.
[0057] At 340, it is determined whether the haptic notification
message is a haptic notification message that is required to be
transmitted to at least one haptic notification device of the one
or more haptic notification devices within the network. In certain
embodiments, a notification type of the haptic notification message
can be determined based on the notification identifier included
within the haptic notification message. Further, it can be
determined whether the notification type is within a pre-defined
set of one or more notification types. Event further, in some
embodiments, it can be determined whether the at least one haptic
notification device is registered with the network based on the at
least one haptic notification device identifier included within the
haptic notification message. The flow then proceeds to 350.
[0058] At 350, the haptic notification message is transmitted to
the at least one haptic notification device using the network in
response to a determination that the haptic notification message is
a haptic notification message that is required to be transmitted to
at least one haptic notification device. The at least one haptic
notification device generates a haptic notification in response to
receiving the haptic notification message. In certain embodiments,
the haptic notification includes a haptic effect. Further, in some
of these embodiments, the haptic effect can be based on the
notification type. Even further, in some of these embodiments, the
haptic effect can be one of: a vibrotactile haptic effect; a
deformation haptic effect; or an electrostatic friction haptic
effect. Further, in some embodiments, the haptic notification
message can be transmitted to at least one other power tool of the
one or more power tools using the network. In these embodiments,
the at least one other power tool can generate a haptic
notification in response to receiving the haptic notification
message. The flow then ends.
[0059] Thus, in accordance with an embodiment, a haptic
notification communication system can provide a framework that
facilitates communication of haptic notification messages generated
by one or more power tools via a network to one or more devices,
and that facilitates haptic notifications that are experienced by
one or more users using the one or more devices. The haptic
notification communication system can further control the
propagation of haptic notification messages to specific devices
based on detection of specific events by the one or more power
tools. In one embodiment, the haptic notification communication
system can allow users of power tools to collaborate more easily.
For example, different users that are working on the same project,
but that are located a significant distance apart from each other,
can collaborate and to each other when to start or stop a task,
even when their work environment is noisy and verbal communication
is not feasible. Further, multiple power tools can be used with
ease by users because every new power tool can be connected to the
network and associated with a specific user. Thus, the haptic
notification communication system can facilitate the use of
multiple power tools in separate and distinct locations.
[0060] The features, structures, or characteristics of the
invention described throughout this specification may be combined
in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. For example, the
usage of "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "certain
embodiment," "certain embodiments," or other similar language,
throughout this specification refers to the fact that a particular
feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with
the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the
present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "one
embodiment," "some embodiments," "a certain embodiment," "certain
embodiments," or other similar language, throughout this
specification do not necessarily all refer to the same group of
embodiments, and the described features, structures, or
characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or
more embodiments.
[0061] One having ordinary skill in the art will readily understand
that the invention as discussed above may be practiced with steps
in a different order, and/or with elements in configurations which
are different than those which are disclosed. Therefore, although
the invention has been described based upon these preferred
embodiments, it would be apparent to those of skill in the art that
certain modifications, variations, and alternative constructions
would be apparent, while remaining within the spirit and scope of
the invention. In order to determine the metes and bounds of the
invention, therefore, reference should be made to the appended
claims.
* * * * *