U.S. patent application number 17/582186 was filed with the patent office on 2022-05-12 for portable, computer-peripheral apparatus including a universal serial bus (usb) connector.
The applicant listed for this patent is ARKEYTYP IP LIMITED. Invention is credited to Durrell Grant Bevington Bishop, Thomas Steven Hulbert.
Application Number | 20220147467 17/582186 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-05-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220147467 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hulbert; Thomas Steven ; et
al. |
May 12, 2022 |
PORTABLE, COMPUTER-PERIPHERAL APPARATUS INCLUDING A UNIVERSAL
SERIAL BUS (USB) CONNECTOR
Abstract
A portable computer-peripheral apparatus comprises a Universal
Serial Bus (USB) connector. The apparatus is operable to
communicate with a computer terminal (e.g. a `PC`). Following
connection to the PC, the apparatus initialises (i.e. presents or
enumerates itself) as a HID keyboard and then sends to the terminal
a first predefined sequence of keycodes automatically without
manual interaction; the keycodes complying with the human interface
device (HID) keyboard standard protocol. Each keycode represents
and simulates a keystroke, such as those performed when a user
strikes a key on the PC keyboard. The keycode sequence automates
the direct access to content, and/or or the initiation of a task or
other process.
Inventors: |
Hulbert; Thomas Steven;
(London, GB) ; Bishop; Durrell Grant Bevington;
(London, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ARKEYTYP IP LIMITED |
Co. Cork |
|
IE |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/582186 |
Filed: |
January 24, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16778413 |
Jan 31, 2020 |
11232046 |
|
|
17582186 |
|
|
|
|
15248263 |
Aug 26, 2016 |
10585813 |
|
|
16778413 |
|
|
|
|
14657394 |
Mar 13, 2015 |
|
|
|
15248263 |
|
|
|
|
12160002 |
Dec 3, 2008 |
9009374 |
|
|
PCT/GB07/00004 |
Jan 5, 2007 |
|
|
|
14657394 |
|
|
|
|
International
Class: |
G06F 13/10 20060101
G06F013/10; G06F 21/34 20060101 G06F021/34; G06F 9/4401 20060101
G06F009/4401; G06F 13/38 20060101 G06F013/38; G06F 13/42 20060101
G06F013/42; G06F 13/40 20060101 G06F013/40; H04L 67/01 20060101
H04L067/01 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 5, 2006 |
GB |
0600207.5 |
Claims
1. A portable computer-peripheral apparatus including a Universal
Serial Bus (USB) connector and a button, the apparatus being
operable to communicate with a computer terminal such that,
following connection to the terminal, the apparatus initialises or
presents itself as a human interface device (HID) keyboard, wherein
the apparatus is configured to send to the computer terminal an
automated series of HID keycodes representing a password string in
response to receiving a press of the button by a user.
2. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, wherein the received press of the button is a single press of
the button.
3. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, in which the HID keycodes include unique data identifying a user
and/or the apparatus.
4. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, in which the HID keycodes include unique data authenticating a
user and/or the apparatus.
5. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim 1
in which the apparatus is a HID device.
6. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, including in addition means of communicating with the terminal
wirelessly.
7. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, including a USB microcontroller.
8. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, wherein the portable computer-peripheral apparatus is a USB
key.
9. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, wherein an additional driver is not required for the computer
terminal.
10. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, wherein the automated series of HID keycodes do not include a
full command for automated login but instead only a part of a
login.
11. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, wherein the automated series of HID keycodes automates direct
access to content, and/or initiation of a task or other
process.
12. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, wherein the apparatus is configured to use inbuilt components of
commonly used operating systems, such as such as MacOS or
Windows.
13. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
1, wherein the apparatus includes both the USB connector and a
wireless connection; wherein in use the apparatus is first
connected physically to the computer terminal by the USB connector,
initiating transmission of a sequence of HID keycodes that performs
a `pairing` operation between the apparatus and the computer
terminal; thus providing clearance for subsequent automatic
wireless communication between the apparatus and the computer
terminal.
14. The portable computer-peripheral apparatus as claimed in claim
13, wherein the automated series of HID keycodes are transmitted
wirelessly.
15. A computer program product embodied on a non-transitory storage
medium, the computer program product executable on a portable
computer-peripheral apparatus comprising a Universal Serial Bus
(USB) connector and a button, the computer program product
executable on the portable computer-peripheral apparatus to: (i)
following connection of the portable computer-peripheral apparatus
to a computer terminal, to initialise or to present the portable
computer-peripheral apparatus as a human interface device (HID)
keyboard to the computer terminal; (ii) detect a press of the
button by a user, and (iii) in response to detecting the press of
the button, to send to the computer terminal an automated series of
HID keycodes representing a password string.
16. The computer program product as claimed in claim 15, wherein
the received press of the button is a single press of the
button.
17. The computer program product as claimed in claim 15, in which
the HID keycodes include unique data identifying a user and/or the
apparatus.
18. The computer program product as claimed in claim 15, in which
the HID keycodes include unique data authenticating a user and/or
the apparatus.
19. The computer program product as claimed in claim 15, wherein
the automated series of HID keycodes do not include a full command
for automated login but instead only a part of a login.
20. The computer program product as claimed in claim 15, wherein
the automated series of HID keycodes automates direct access to
content, and/or initiation of a task or other process.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
16/778,413, filed on Jan. 31, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/248,263, filed on Aug. 26, 2016, which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/657,394, filed Mar.
13, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
12/160,002, filed on Dec. 3, 2008, which claims priority to
International Application No. PCT/GB2007/00004, filed on Jan. 5,
2007, which claims priority to GB Application No. GB0600207, filed
Jan. 5, 2006, the entire contents of each of which is fully
incorporated hereby by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to a portable, computer-peripheral
apparatus comprising a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector. The
apparatus enables automated access to content, or automated
initiation of a task or other process.
[0003] USB is a serial bus standard; devices connecting using the
USB standard must have a physical connector that conforms to the
standard: there are currently many applicable plug designs (e.g.
Series A, Series B, Mini A, Mini B); the USB standard also evolves
to cover new plug designs.
2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] There are many and varied tasks that can be initiated and
content that can be accessed using a personal computer, either
locally or remotely via a network. Current options for accessing
these tasks or content are typically performed by the user
navigating through or interacting with the PC operating system (OS)
or a software application using generic input apparatus such as a
keyboard and mouse. These navigations and interactions can be
complex and lengthy, making them hard to remember; and they are
often an abstract set of user actions that have no direct
representational relationship to the task or content.
[0005] The typical options for accessing tasks or content on a PC
using the Graphical User Interface (GUI) of the OS, as described
above, present several problems to the user; certain tasks are hard
to remember, non-descriptive and non-portable. The user faces
increased difficulty when using a PC he is not familiar with, such
as a friend's computer or one set up for multiple users, such as a
computer in a public place, for example an airport. Further, a
non-computer-literate user (for example a child, an old person, or
a technophobe) cannot be expected to manage complex interactions to
get to a task, such as navigating to a URL, but may be quite happy
to interact once they are there--they understand the value in the
task, not the complicated process to get to it. An example of the
problem stated above is:
[0006] A user is unable to access their web-mail easily,
particularly a new subscriber, because they have to remember a long
sequence of actions, such as the correct website URL, their
username and password. A typical set of tasks for this function is
too complex to be readily remembered by a user--for example: [0007]
Select a text based menu item from a set of drop-down menus within
the OS to start a browser application; [0008] Then type in a URL
address in the form of a text string; [0009] Navigate to the login
page; [0010] Enter a username and password.
[0011] A secondary problem that has been identified is that most
interactive peripheral hardware such as application-specific input
devices usually requires a second step after physically connecting
to a computer, such as installing a driver or software. So in cases
where application-specific input devices have been created, they
are often complicated to set up and are not very portable--being
unable to operate with computers that do not have the required
drivers or software.
[0012] Existing solutions that relate to the problems outlined
above are: [0013] Compact Disks (CD) with autorun files (for
example, a CD business card) that automatically launches an
application or setup wizard on the CD [0014] "Hotkeys", such as
those found on certain `Logitech` USB keyboards or other PC
peripherals, that can perform a series of tasks or actions from a
single key press. [0015] Programmable Keyboard-Macro devices that
can be user-programmed with key sequences for example, PI
Engineering's X-Keys range of products (refer to U.S. Pat. No.
4,964,075). [0016] USB mass storage devices with specific files or
software preinstalled, (such software needing to be manually
selected and run by an operator) offering physical and portable
access to predefined, or user-defined content. It is also possible
to include an `autorun` file on a USB drive: a user typically plugs
a USB drive into a PC and the USB automatically generates data that
emulates the operation of a CD. But it is possible to block this
kind of CD emulation at the operating system level (and for
security reasons, e.g. reducing the risk of viral infection,
blocking could become increasingly common).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] A first aspect of the invention is a portable
computer-peripheral apparatus comprising a Universal Serial Bus
(USB) connector, the apparatus being operable to communicate with a
computer terminal (which we shall refer to generically as a `PC`)
such that, following connection to the PC, the apparatus
initialises (i.e. enumerates or presents itself) as a HID keyboard
and then sends to the terminal a first predefined sequence of
keycodes automatically without manual interaction; the keycodes
complying with the human interface device (HID) keyboard standard
protocol. Each keycode represents and simulates a keystroke, such
as those performed when a user strikes a key on a PC keyboard. The
keycode sequence automates the direct access to content, and/or the
initiation of a task or other process.
[0018] The apparatus brings three important benefits to the
user:
[0019] 1. The user has a physically descriptive object that
represents the given task or process that is initiated or
implemented by the HID keycodes.
[0020] 2. The user no longer needs to remember or learn the complex
actions that need to be performed in order to navigate to and run
the content or carry out the task/process--he simply connects the
apparatus to the PC.
[0021] 3. The user can initiate or access the task/process from any
personal computer terminal running common Operating System
software, since the apparatus does not require unique software or
drivers.
[0022] 4. Because HID keyboard emulation is used, there is no risk
of the operating system blocking operation, as may happen with
conventional USB devices that emulate CDs.
[0023] The terminal could be, as noted above, a conventional PC
(i.e. personal computer, including Apple Macintosh computer) but
also a personal digital assistant (PDA), laptop computer, gaming
console, portable gaming device, mobile telephone, smartphone,
communicator, wireless information device, web browsing device,
portable navigation device and indeed any other kind of electronic
information terminal.
[0024] Other aspects include the following: [0025] A portable USB
compliant apparatus adapted to operate as a web-mail key that, when
plugged into a computer terminal, sends HID keyboard or CD
emulation data to open a browser running on the terminal to enable
web-mail on a remote server to be accessed. [0026] A portable USB
compliant apparatus adapted to operate as a toy that, when plugged
into a computer terminal, sends HID keyboard or CD emulation data
to open a browser running on the terminal and/or to enable
web-based story data associated with the toy to be accessed. [0027]
A portable USB compliant apparatus adapted to operate as a music
download key that, when plugged into a computer terminal, sends HID
keyboard or CD emulation data to open a media player application
running on the terminal and/or to cause that application to
initiate or request the streaming of a specific track, or a set of
tracks to the terminal. [0028] A portable USB compliant apparatus
adapted to operate as a business card from an individual that, when
plugged into a computer terminal, sends HID keyboard or CD
emulation data to open an email application running on the terminal
and/or to open a new e-mail message that is automatically completed
with recipient data, stored on the apparatus, corresponding to the
individual. [0029] A portable USB compliant apparatus adapted to
operate as a drawing tool that, when plugged into a computer
terminal, sends HID keyboard or CD emulation data to open a paint
or drawing application running on the terminal. [0030] A portable
USB compliant apparatus adapted to operate as a key to a retailer's
web site that, when plugged into a computer terminal, sends HID
keyboard or CD emulation data to open a browser running on the
terminal and/or to automatically open that web site.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 1 is an example of an embodiment of the invention for
the application as a USB web-mail key.
[0032] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional components
of apparatus 102 of FIG. 1 in more detail.
[0033] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing the general sequence of
events that occurs when apparatus 102 of FIG. 1 is connected to a
PC so that a pre-programmed action is performed.
[0034] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the apparatus of the
invention.
[0035] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional components
of the apparatus 401 of FIG. 4.
[0036] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing the general sequence of
events that occurs when apparatus 401 of FIG. 4 is connected to a
PC.
[0037] FIG. 7 shows a toy which, when connected to a computer,
opens an internet page containing the next episode of a web comic
story.
[0038] FIG. 8 shows an "etch-a-sketch" style toy which, when
connected to a computer, opens a standard drawing application and
enables the user to create drawings using a simple interface on the
toy.
[0039] FIG. 9 shows a USB storage apparatus which, when connected
to a computer, automatically opens a file stored within memory held
on the apparatus itself.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] The apparatus initiates/accesses a task or content by
automatically performing a pre-programmed action whenever the user
connects the apparatus to the PC. Alternatively, the apparatus can
perform the action by limited interaction with the user--requiring
a two-step sequence. In this alternative embodiment, the user
connects the apparatus to a PC, thus initiating a pre-programmed
sequence of actions; and later presses a button on the apparatus to
initiate a separate pre-programmed or alternatively user-programmed
sequence.
[0041] In either event, the apparatus emulates a HID keyboard
device and sends keycodes complying with the HID protocol to the
PC. The Universal Serial Bus (USB) human interface device (HID) is
a device class definition of USB devices. This device class
consists of human interface devices such as computer keyboards,
computer mice, game controllers, and alphanumeric display devices.
The USB HID protocol is defined in a number of documents provided
by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) Device Working Group. The
primary document used to describe the USB HID class is the Device
Class Definition for HID 1.11, entitled "Universal Serial Bus (USB)
Device Class Definition for Human Interface Devices (HID) Firmware
Specification--Jun. 27, 2001 Version 1.1.11".
[0042] The task or content is either accessed locally on the PC
(for example, open a new email window using the PC's default email
application) or accessed remotely over a network (for example,
stream an audio file over the internet from a remote server, via a
unique reference or URL).
[0043] In the preferred embodiment, the pre-programmed sequence of
actions initiating a task or accessing content is made up of a
series of simulated user-keyboard events or keystrokes. These are
sent as HID protocol compliant keycodes in a sequence from the
apparatus to the PC. The action either inputs directly to the PC's
operating system (for example, to open a URL using internet
explorer) and/or controls a separate software application (for
example, opening and initiating playback of a network audio file
from within windows media player) or performs data-entry functions
(for example, entering a text string into a field on a form).
[0044] In a preferred embodiment, when the apparatus is connected
to a PC it `initialises`, (e.g. emulates, simulates, presents
itself or enumerates) as a standard `plug and play` HID keyboard.
After starting up correctly and establishing a connection, the
apparatus sends a timed sequence of keycodes, simulating a specific
sequence of (normally user-generated) keystrokes used to access the
given task or content by a method determined by the operating
system or application. The sequence of keycodes is acted upon by
the PC operating system (or application) and the task is thus
initiated or content accessed.
[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the method determined by the
operating system would be a Command Line Interface built into the
Operating System (OS) and into which commands can be entered in the
form of text (that is, a sequence of typed characters) or a similar
standard feature of the OS that enables direct access to programs,
files, network paths and internet URLs via text based commands. On
the Windows operating system, the Windows Run box is an example of
this type of interface and is accessed by a sequence of keystrokes
comprising Winkey+R. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the
initial sequence of keycodes sent by the apparatus would be those
for `Winkey` and `R` key; this initial sequence being followed by a
subsequent sequence of keycodes that would be entered into the Run
box and which would initiate the task or access the content.
[0046] The method determined by the application would differ and
would be dependent on the application but would also comprise a
sequence of keycodes. The sequence of keycodes would be recognised
by the application, which would perform the associated task or
process.
[0047] In some embodiments the apparatus initialises to simulate
more than one USB interface, for example, both as a human input
device profile (HID) keyboard and a HID mouse. In these cases the
keyboard interface is used to access the task or content; after
which a combination of the keyboard interface profile and
additional interface profiles will be used to control or interact
with the task or content. For example, an `etch-a-sketch` style
drawing game/toy transmits keycodes, causing the operating system
(OS) to open a drawing application such as Microsoft Paint;
subsequently mouse events are transmitted from the apparatus,
causing drawing actions within the application.
[0048] Thus the apparatus takes advantage of inbuilt components of
commonly used operating systems, such components effectively
comprising pre-installed driver applications with limited
functionality. Because certain profiles such as the HID profiles
mentioned above conform to agreed standards for communication, the
apparatus, by communicating with a PC only according to the agreed
standard, functions properly on a wide range of available PCs, even
when the PCs have different operating system software such as MacOS
or Windows.
[0049] Some examples of additional USB interfaces that use such
standard system drivers are: pointer, mouse, joystick, gamepad,
keyboard (HID); Audio; Mass Storage.
[0050] As an enhancement in some embodiments a basic form of
bi-directional communication may be achieved as follows: When the
apparatus initialises as a HID keyboard, the user strikes a
`modifier` or locking key such as NUMLOCK and/or CAPSLOCK and/or
SCROLLLOCK and/or KANALOCK on their PC keyboard. When these keys
are pressed, data is sent from the PC to the keyboard indicating
the state of these keys; this data is typically used to turn on/off
LEDs on the keyboard. This data is normally sent to all keyboards
connected to the PC; therefore if a user hits one such key on their
PC keyboard, data is typically sent to the apparatus also. The data
thus received from the PC causes the apparatus to perform an
action. For example, the user presses NUMLOCK on their PC keyboard
and a superhero toy connected to the PC initiates an animated
sequence (the body parts of the toy start to move).
[0051] Software can also generate Locking Key events (i.e. software
can simulate the pressing of a Locking Key). Therefore software can
communicate to the apparatus using this method, without any user
interaction needed. For example, a java applet in a web page could
communicate with a superhero toy connected to the PC, initiating an
animated sequence (the body parts of the toy start to move).
[0052] The apparatus connects to the PC using the Universal Serial
Bus (USB) connection and protocol. USB is currently the most
appropriate connection and communication system for the apparatus
since it is commonly available, normally physically accessible and
because it requires no user set-up when simulating a `plug and
play` HID device. The USB port is a familiar, common and
easy-to-use connection point to which HID devices can be connected
without the need of driver installation. Alternatively, the
apparatus can connect using a wireless protocol such as Bluetooth
or Zigbee but these methods currently impose certain limitations on
the portability of the system because of the security inherent in
these systems.
[0053] In a wireless embodiment, the apparatus includes both a USB
connection and a wireless connection; the apparatus is first
connected physically to the PC by the USB connection, initiating
transmission of a sequence of keycodes that performs a `pairing`
operation between the apparatus and the PC; thus providing
clearance for subsequent automatic wireless communication between
the apparatus and the particular PC. Upon such subsequent wireless
communication, the apparatus performs in a similar way to the
embodiments described having physical connections. For example, by
transmitting via the commonly available Bluetooth HID profile
(instead of the USB HID profile) in order to simulate keystrokes by
transmitting keycodes.
[0054] The apparatus may have various physical configurations
depending on the application required.
[0055] For example, the `key` apparatus automatically accessing
web-mail (described previously) preferably takes the form of a
single USB key-fob style apparatus, having text and/or graphics
printed on the outside that refer to the web-mail provider and
possibly the user. This `key` apparatus is plugged directly into
the USB port of a PC, initiating a sequence of simulated keystrokes
that automatically access the user's personal web-mail page for
example.
[0056] To provide an example of an alternative configuration, a toy
apparatus comprises two parts--a base (or dock) part that is
connected to the PC, for example via a cable; and a separate part,
such as an action figure, that may be removed from and plugs into
the base part.
[0057] The apparatus may also include other input or output devices
such as sensors or electro-mechanical actuators, responding for
example to USB communications from the PC and/or other
environmental stimuli.
[0058] For example, in a further alternative embodiment, a toy
embodiment uses electric motors or electro-magnetic actuators to
move body parts of an action figure. The web-based application
normally controls the toy (using either bi-directional commands
described above, or possibly audio output from speakers associated
with the PC) such that movements of the actuators are initiated in
response to, or synchronise with, changing on-screen content on the
PC.
[0059] In a further alternative embodiment, a `key` style device
accesses a web-hosted catalogue, and includes a barcode-scanning
head so that when barcodes in a printed catalogue are swiped,
additional information is displayed within a corresponding internet
page on the store's web site.
[0060] The present invention may be applied to many alternative
configurations, and used in many varied applications, some examples
include:
[0061] 1. A web-mail key. Plug it into a computer and it takes you
directly to your web-mail inbox.
[0062] 2. A superhero toy. Plug it into a computer and it takes you
to (and perhaps interacts with) the next episode of a web-based
comic story.
[0063] 3. A music flyer. Plug it into a computer and it takes you
to Windows Media Player and starts to stream a specific track, or
set of tracks.
[0064] 4. An "email me" business card. Plug it into a computer,
press a button on the card and it takes you directly to your email
application with a new message window pre-filled in with the
desired address (on the business card).
[0065] 5. An "etch-a-sketch" toy. Plug it into a computer and it
starts a drawing application, such as Microsoft Paint, opens a new
blank image and centres the cursor--the user can then draw using a
simple interface on the apparatus (in this example the apparatus
initialises as both a HID keyboard and a HID mouse).
[0066] 6. A web-catalogue key. Plug it into a computer and it takes
you to the store's website.
[0067] A scenario of use is described below, representing one such
embodiment in more detail: The example embodiment is described with
reference to the figures.
Description--Example Embodiment (USB Web-Mail Key)
FIG. 1
[0068] User 101 has newly subscribed to an internet email service,
which can be accessed through an internet browser application,
enabling him to view and send email messages from any personal
computer with an internet connection.
[0069] A web-mail access apparatus 102 comprises a USB-compatible
processor component; a USB connector; and external graphical
elements (not shown) referring to the web-mail account and the
web-mail service in general.
[0070] Personal Computer (PC) 103 has an internet connection 104; a
USB port 105 and an Operating System (OS), incorporating software
(e.g. USB HID profile) capable of receiving and processing keycodes
(simulating key-strokes) from an external device (without requiring
additional drivers); and Graphical User Interface (GUI) 106.
[0071] Upon user 101 connecting web-mail access apparatus 102 to
the USB port 105 of PC 103, the apparatus powers up and begins an
initialisation process. On initialisation apparatus 102 enumerates
as a HID keyboard interface and is recognised as such by the
Operating System.
[0072] After the apparatus has been successfully initialised the
apparatus transmits (in a timed sequence) an initial series of
keycodes to the Operating System. Each keycode represents and
simulates a keystroke, such as those performed when a user strikes
a key on the PC keyboard. The initial series of keycodes sent by
the apparatus 102 to the PC 103 are interpreted by the Operating
System as a sequence of keystrokes that launch software application
107. (In this example, the software application 107 is a standard
feature of the Operating System that enables direct access to
programs, files, network paths and internet URLs--for example,
Windows Run). In response to this keystroke sequence the Operating
System launches the application.
[0073] After a programmed time period, (allowing time for the
application to fully open) the apparatus 102 sends a second series
of timed keycodes to the PC 103. This second series of keycodes is
interpreted by the Operating System as a sequence of keystrokes
that represent data entry to the application 107 in the form of a
text string URL (Universal Resource Locator). In this example the
URL represents the website of the internet email service subscribed
to by user 101. In the preferred embodiment, the URL includes a
command for automated user login (for example, a query string
including username and password that will be processed by a script
running on the server). The last keycode sent from the apparatus
102 to PC 103 is interpreted by the OS as a confirmation and
execution command, and is sent to the application 107 (for example,
the ENTER key). The first and/or second set of keycodes (or any
other set) can include unique data--e.g data identifying or
authenticating a user and/or the apparatus 102.
[0074] Application 107 then opens the URL using the Operating
System's default internet browser 108; the browser in turn displays
the internet page of the web-mail service subscribed to by user
101. After initiating access to the URL, application 107
automatically closes (for illustration purposes the application is
shown open in FIG. 1.)
[0075] In an alternative embodiment, where a higher level of
security is desired, the URL entered into application 107 may not
include a full command for automated login, but instead only a part
of the login, such as the username. In this case, the web page
reached by the URL is a login page for user 101, with only a
password entry being required. The password may then be entered by
the user in the traditional method using the keyboard or may be
entered by apparatus 102 as an automated series of keycodes
representing the password string; upon the user pressing a button
on apparatus 102, once.
[0076] In the example embodiment of FIG. 1, the user 101 has
previously subscribed to a web-mail service. Apparatus 102 has been
pre-programmed (for example at the store where the subscription was
purchased) with the user's unique identifier information and thus
represents his personal access to his web-mail. The web service is
graphically represented on the case of the apparatus 102. The user
thus becomes accustomed to thinking of his web-mail access as
apparatus 102 and carries the apparatus with him; using it as a
universal `key` to access his email on any compatible
internet-connected computer, simply and easily.
[0077] Since most Operating Systems include the necessary
functionality (such as the HID software) allowing the application
such as 107 to initiate web-mail access, the user can gain almost
universal access, from a very wide range of computer terminals.
[0078] So, in use, user 101 connects web-mail access apparatus 102
to the USB port of an internet connected PC, such as 103. The
apparatus then automatically sends a series of keycodes to the PC
that control the Operating System 106 as previously described. This
results in the default internet browser launching and automatically
opening the internet page of the user's web-mail service.
[0079] Technical and functional details of the web-mail key example
embodiment are described below with reference to the figures.
Example Embodiment--Detailed Description (USB Web-Mail Key)
FIG. 2
[0080] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional components
of apparatus 102 in more detail.
[0081] Apparatus 102 comprises a USB connector 201; a
USB-compatible microcontroller 202 and an external oscillator 203.
USB microcontroller 202 comprises a CPU 204; a USB interface block
205; program memory 206; RAM 207; data memory 208; and an
oscillator block 209.
[0082] USB microcontroller 202 is programmed with firmware
(application code and USB descriptors) that enables apparatus 102
to enumerate as a HID keyboard interface when connected to a
PC.
[0083] When apparatus 102 is connected to the USB port of a PC, USB
microcontroller 202 powers up and begins to run firmware stored in
program memory 206.
[0084] After successfully enumerating as a HID keyboard, the
microcontroller accesses data stored in data memory 208; the data
having been pre-programmed and representing the action to be
performed (in this example, control the OS to open the user's
web-mail internet page using the default internet browser). The
data read from memory is an instruction set that enables the
microcontroller to perform the action.
[0085] The USB microcontroller 202 then performs the action by
interpreting the instruction set and sending a series of paced USB
data packets (or reports) to the PC via USB interface block 205;
each packet of data sent representing a keycode (or combination of
keycodes). This series of keycodes simulates a specific sequence of
keystrokes that control the Operating System to carry out the
action (in this example, resulting in the default internet browser
of the PC automatically launching and opening the internet page of
the user's web-mail service).
FIG. 3
[0086] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing the general sequence of
events that occurs when apparatus 102 is connected to a PC so that
a pre-programmed action is performed.
[0087] 301--Apparatus 102 is connected to the USB port of a PC
[0088] 302--Apparatus powers up
[0089] 303--Apparatus communicates with the PC and enumerates as a
HID keyboard
[0090] 304--Instruction set is read from memory
[0091] 305--First keycode sequence is sent to PC
[0092] 306--Check instruction set for next keycode sequence
[0093] 307--Wait for a period; then send second keycode
sequence
[0094] 308--End
FIG. 4
[0095] FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment 401 of the apparatus,
having a button, 411 used to initiate a second sequence of
operations.
FIG. 5
[0096] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional components
of an apparatus 501.
[0097] The apparatus comprises a USB connector; a USB-compatible
microcontroller 502; an external oscillator 503; and a momentary
push switch 411. USB microcontroller 502 may comprise a CPU 504; a
USB interface block 505; program memory 506; RAM 507; data memory
508; an oscillator block 509; and a general purpose input/output
port (GPIO) 510.
[0098] USB microcontroller 502 is programmed with firmware
(application code and USB descriptors) that enables the apparatus
to enumerate as a HID keyboard interface when connected to a PC,
and subsequently to transmit keycodes in timed sequences.
[0099] When the apparatus is connected to the USB port of a PC, USB
microcontroller 502 powers up and begins to run firmware stored in
program memory 506.
[0100] After successfully enumerating as a HID keyboard, the
microcontroller accesses data stored in data memory 508; the data
having been pre-programmed and representing the action to be
performed (in this example, control the OS to open the user's
web-mail interne page using the PC's default internet browser). The
data read from memory is an instruction set that enables the
microcontroller to perform the action.
[0101] The USB microcontroller 502 then performs part of the action
by interpreting the instruction set and sending a series of paced
USB data packets (or reports) to the PC via USB interface block
505; each packet of data sent representing a keycode (or
combination of keycodes). This series of keycodes simulates a
specific sequence of keystrokes that control the Operating System
to carry out part of the action (in this example, resulting in the
default internet browser of the PC automatically launching and
opening the login page of the user's web-mail service). The
microcontroller then waits for the user to press switch 511. When
the switch is pressed a second series of keycodes are sent to the
PC and the remaining part of the action is performed (in this
example, the password is entered into the login page of the user's
web-mail service).
FIG. 6
[0102] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing the general sequence of
events that occurs when apparatus 401 (including a button) is
connected to a PC so that a set of pre-programmed actions is
performed, followed by a user-initiated second sequence of
pre-programmed actions.
[0103] 601--Apparatus is connected to the USB port of a PC
[0104] 602--Apparatus powers up
[0105] 603--Apparatus enumerates as a HID keyboard
[0106] 604--First instruction set is read from memory
[0107] 605--First keycode sequence is sent to PC
[0108] 606--Check instruction set for next keycode sequence
[0109] 607--Wait for a period; then send next keycode sequence
[0110] 608--Check for next instruction
[0111] 609--Wait for button press
[0112] 610--Next instruction set is read from memory
[0113] 611--Send next keycode sequence
[0114] 612--End
Examples of Variants
[0115] Selected alternative embodiments of the present invention
are briefly described below. The example embodiments are described
with reference to the figures.
FIG. 7
[0116] FIG. 7 shows a `superhero` toy which, when connected to a
computer, opens an internet page containing the next episode of a
web comic story.
[0117] Toy 701 comprises a USB processor component; and a USB
connector and cable. Toy 701 may also incorporate sensors and
electro-mechanical actuators; for example a solenoid-controlled
mechanism to open and close the mouth of the toy, in response to
signals either a) from a microphone sensor included in the toy, or
b) from signals from the PC, for example representing `modifier`
keycode (such as `Caps Lock` or `Num-Lock`).
[0118] Personal Computer (PC) 702 has an internet connection 705; a
USB port 703; and an Operating System (OS) and Graphical User
Interface (GUI).
[0119] When a user connects apparatus 701 to the USB port 703 of PC
702, the apparatus powers up and initialises. On initialisation,
apparatus 701 enumerates as a HID keyboard interface and is
recognised by the Operating System.
[0120] After the apparatus has been successfully initialised the
apparatus sends an initial series of paced keycodes to the
Operating System. Each keycode represents a keystroke, such as are
sent when a user strikes a key on the PC keyboard. The initial
series of keycodes sent by the apparatus 701 to the PC 702 is
interpreted by the Operating System as a sequence of keystrokes
that universally launch a system software application. (In this
example, the software application is a standard feature of the
Operating System that enables direct access to programs, files,
network paths and internet URLs--for example, Windows Run). In
response to this keystroke sequence the Operating System launches
the application.
[0121] After a programmed time period, the apparatus 701 sends a
second series of paced keycodes to the PC. This second series of
keycodes are interpreted by the Operating System as a sequence of
keystrokes that represent data entry to the system application in
the form of a text string URL (Universal Resource Locator). The URL
represents the internet page of the web comic story. In the
preferred embodiment, the URL includes a user ID (for example, a
query string including a user ID number that will be processed by a
server side script). Passing a user ID to the remote server enables
content to be unique to the user and/or different content to be
accessed incrementally (for example, episode 1 of the story is
shown when the apparatus is first connected; episode 2 on the
second connection and so on).
[0122] The last keycode sent from the apparatus 701 to the PC is
interpreted by the OS as a confirmation and execution command for
the system application (for example, ENTER key). The system
application then opens the URL using the Operating System's default
internet browser 704; the browser in turn displays the internet
page of the web comic story.
[0123] So, in use, a user connects superhero toy 701 to the USB
port of an internet-connected PC 702. The apparatus then
automatically sends a series of keycodes to the PC that control the
Operating System as previously described. This results in the
default internet browser 704 launching and automatically opening an
internet page containing the next episode of a web comic story.
[0124] Various enhancements to this example embodiment may be
achieved by the addition of simple sensors and electro-mechanical
actuators to the toy. For example, as the web comic story plays
within the internet browser, the body parts of toy 701 may be
animated by electro-magnets or miniature motors. The story on
screen and the toy may then appear to interact with each other (for
example, a character on the PC screen and the superhero toy 701 may
move in unison); or the toy may appear to be enhanced by the
multimedia capabilities of the PC (for example, audio from the PC,
in the form of dialog in the superhero's voice, may be synchronised
with the automated mouth movements of toy 701). Adding simple
sensors to toy 701, to detect push and rotation for example, may
enable control of the content within internet browser 704 by means
of manual mechanical interactions with toy 701.
[0125] A further enhancement is USB communication back from the PC
702 to the toy 701. This enables content within the internet
browser to send commands to toy 701 and thus control the toy's
movements in response to specific timed events within the content
(for example, a character within the story on-screen may ask a
question and the toy may reply--the mouth movements of the toy
being synchronised with the audio).
[0126] It is desirable to maintain USB communication within a
`driverless` protocol. So for example, in the case of an
interactive toy such as Toy 701, an additional USB interface (again
using only standard system drivers) allows communication from the
PC to the Toy 701, enabling signals (that can be interpreted by the
processor of Toy 701) for control of the Toy 701 to be sent.
Signals thus pass from the application, via the PC to the toy. For
example, a generic HID interface or USB Audio interface may be
used.
[0127] A significant advantage of the invention applied to Toys is
that the normal input devices such as a keyboard and mouse may be
covered, disabled or removed entirely by unplugging from the PC for
the duration of the interaction; thus ensuring that children
playing with the PC by use of the Toy cannot access or damage other
data held on the PC.
FIG. 8
[0128] FIG. 8 shows an "etch-a-sketch" style toy which, when
connected to a computer, opens a standard drawing application and
enables the user to create drawings using a simple interface on the
toy.
[0129] Toy 801 comprises a USB processor component; a USB connector
and cable; and a simple user interface 805. User interface 805 may
for example comprise two rotary knobs and two push buttons.
[0130] Personal Computer (PC) 802 has a USB port 803; and an
Operating System (OS) and Graphical User Interface (GUI).
[0131] When a user connects apparatus 801 to the USB port 803 of PC
802, the apparatus powers up and initialises. On initialisation,
apparatus 801 enumerates as both a HID keyboard interface and a HID
mouse interface and is recognised by the Operating System.
[0132] After the apparatus has been successfully initialised the
apparatus sends an initial series of paced keycodes to the
Operating System. Each keycode represents a keystroke, such as are
sent when a user strikes a key on the PC keyboard. The initial
series of keycodes sent by the apparatus 801 to the PC 802 are
interpreted by the Operating System as a sequence of keystrokes
that universally launch a system software application. (In this
example, the software application is a standard feature of the
Operating System that enables direct access to programs, files,
network paths and internet URLs--for example, Windows Run). In
response to this keystroke sequence the Operating System launches
the application.
[0133] After a programmed time period, the apparatus 801 sends a
second series of paced keycodes to the PC 802. This second series
of keycodes are interpreted by the Operating System as a sequence
of keystrokes that represent data entry to the system application
in the form of a text string. The text string represents the name
of a standard drawing application, such as Microsoft Paint.
[0134] The last keycode sent from the apparatus 801 to the PC 802
is interpreted by the OS as a confirmation and execution command
for the system application (for example, ENTER key). The system
application then opens the drawing application 804.
[0135] After the drawing application 804 has been opened, the user
can use interface 805 to control the movement of the cursor within
the drawing application on the PC screen and thus create drawings
using the toy as a new input apparatus. When the interface is acted
upon, data is sent from apparatus 801 to the PC representing mouse
X, Y and button events (for example, turning a left rotary knob may
cause data representing a mouse button press and cursor movements
from left to right to be sent to the PC, resulting in a horizontal
line being drawn within the drawing application).
[0136] Interface 805 may also be used to initiate other actions
with the drawing application by sending keystroke sequences to the
PC (for example, pressing a left button may cause a series of
keycodes to be sent to the PC, resulting in the canvas being
cleared).
[0137] So, in use, a user connects toy 801 to the USB port of an
internet connected PC 802. The apparatus then automatically sends a
series of keycodes to the PC that control the Operating System as
previously described. This results in a standard drawing
application, such as Microsoft Paint, automatically launching. The
user can then create drawings using interface 805 on the toy.
[0138] It can be appreciated from the above examples that there is
significant value in the intuitive nature of the interaction,
particularly for certain sections of the market such as children.
The apparatus is either marked in such a way as to become
associated visually with the action or actions it performs, for
example by printed graphics and/or text; or is directly shaped into
a configuration that is representative of the interaction, for
example the `etch-a-sketch` or `superhero` configurations. In some
cases, a proprietary shape may be used under license, such as a
Disney.RTM. character (or characters), in both the apparatus and
the content on the PC.
FIG. 9
[0139] FIG. 9 shows a USB storage apparatus which, when connected
to a computer, automatically opens a file stored within memory held
on the apparatus itself. The file may be an application or any
other type of file recognised by the operating system.
[0140] Apparatus 901 comprises a USB processor component; a mass
storage component; and a USB connector.
[0141] Personal Computer (PC) 902 has a USB port 903; and an
Operating System (OS) and Graphical User Interface (GUI).
[0142] When a user connects apparatus 901 to the USB port 903 of PC
902, the apparatus powers up and initialises. On initialisation,
apparatus 901 enumerates as both a HID keyboard interface and a
Mass Storage interface and is recognised by the Operating
System.
[0143] After the apparatus has been successfully initialised the
apparatus sends an initial series of paced keycodes to the
Operating System. Each keycode represents a keystroke, such as are
sent when a user strikes a key on the PC keyboard. The initial
series of keycodes sent by the apparatus 901 to the PC 902 are
interpreted by the Operating System as a sequence of keystrokes
that universally launch a system software application. (In this
example, the software application is a standard feature of the
Operating System that enables direct access to programs, files,
network paths and internet URLs--for example, Windows Run). In
response to this keystroke sequence the Operating System launches
the application.
[0144] After a programmed time period, the apparatus 901 sends a
second series of paced keycodes to the PC 902. This second series
of keycodes are interpreted by the Operating System as a sequence
of keystrokes that represent data entry to the system application
in the form of a text string. The text string represents the
file-path of the file stored on the mass storage component of the
apparatus 901.
[0145] The last keycode sent from the apparatus 901 to the PC 902
is interpreted by the OS as a confirmation and execution command
for the system application (for example, ENTER key). The system
application then opens or runs the file and displays the result
904.
* * * * *