Device for organizing writing instruments

Abstract

An auxiliary device for organizing a writing instrument, comprising: i) a cylindrical frame 101 with a first and a second disk 102, wherein the frame 101 is designed to be positioned on a solid surface in such a way that the first disk 102 is accommodated on the surface in a secure manner; ii) a microphone 103 integrated into the frame 101 to enable a user to input voice commands to activate / deactivate the device, on the basis of which an integrated microcontroller spirally actuates an electromagnetic spring 104, arranged between the first and second disks 102, to extend / contract to unfold the frame 101, enabling the user to place a stationery item desired by the user in the frame 101 in several slots incorporated into the first disk 102; iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105, installed on the frame 101 and paired with a processor to capture and process multiple images near the frame 101 in order to determine the dimensions of each stationery item, whereupon the microcontroller actuates several telescopically actuated rods 106, integrated between the circumferential section of the first and second disks 102, to extend / retract in order to increase / decrease the dimensions of the frame 101 in order to properly accommodate the items in the frame 101; iv) an ultrasonic sensor embedded in the frame 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 105 to detect incorrect placement of the objects in the frame 101, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a motorized circular slider 107 arranged on a circumferential section of the second disk 102 to displace a motorized clamp 108 integrated into the slider 107 as required to position the clamp 108 near the object; and v) a laser measuring sensor embedded in the frame 101 to determine the dimensions of the objects, on the basis of which the microcontroller actuates the terminal 108 to obtain a grip on the misplaced objects in order to position the objects in a suitable slot according to a predetermined placement of the objects, thereby assisting the user in organizing the stationery items.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a writing instrument organizing device capable of assisting a means of organizing user-specific stationery by appropriately guiding the user in placing the items for further use as needed. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Writing instruments play an important role in assisting a user with writing. They allow the individual to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings in a tangible form that is shared with others. Furthermore, writing instruments help improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, making them valuable tools for both children and adults. Furthermore, writing tools are also used as a therapeutic tool for people struggling with stress or anxiety. The act of writing helps the individual process their feelings and thoughts, leading to better mental well-being. Overall, writing instruments are versatile tools that benefit people in various areas of life, from education to work to personal development.Therefore, the user must keep the writing instruments well organized for easy access while writing.

[0003] Traditionally, there are a limited number of devices and appliances, such as pen cups, desk organizers, and drawer dividers, that help keep pens, pencils, markers, and other writing instruments easily accessible and organized, but they do not prevent the user from misplacing them, which can lead to delays in accessing the devices for writing down thoughts, ideas, and emotions. Furthermore, such devices and appliances are unable to adjust their placement for easy access depending on the type of tools being stored.

[0004] US5437399A discloses a device for holding writing instruments, comprising an elongated support element having a predetermined extension direction, a plurality of holding elements arranged on the support element substantially side by side along the extension direction of the support element and each having at least one receptacle for receiving at least one writing instrument, wherein each of the receptacles is elastically expandable so that a writing instrument can be inserted into the receptacle and then contractible to reliably hold the inserted writing instrument in the receptacle upon contraction of the receptacle, wherein the holding elements are spaced apart from one another by a distance that is smaller than a size of each of the receptacles in the extended position, viewed in the extension direction of the support element, so that a writing instrument can be inserted into the receptacles,but cannot be inserted into a space between the holding elements. US 399 provides a way to hold writing instruments in a way that prevents their unauthorized removal while allowing them to be easily removed from the device for appropriate operations. However, it lacks the correction of improper placement to keep the writing instruments in an orderly manner.

[0005] US20140263496A1 discloses a holding device for writing instruments, the holding device comprising: a main body sized to be positioned around a user's forearm; and at least one stop coupled to the main body, the stop sized to hold at least one of the writing instruments. US'496 provides a means of holding the writing instruments, but is limited to holding only certain instruments with the user's body and does not provide a means of storing multiple types of writing instruments.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices and apparatuses are disclosed in the prior art that provide a means to organize and store the writing tools, but are unable to support a means of obtaining a grip on the misplaced items in order to position the items in a suitable manner.

[0007] To overcome the above mentioned drawbacks, there is a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of assisting the user in placing the stationery in the correct position, to organize stationery in a predefined space for the items to access the stationery for writing as requirement. SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The main object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of assisting a user in placing the stationery in the correct position, organizing the stationery in a predetermined space for the articles, and allowing the user to access the stationery in an easy manner.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop an apparatus capable of detecting misplacement of stationery to support a means for detecting the misplaced items to position the items in a proper manner.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is inherently reliable.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon closer examination of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a writing instrument organizing device capable of supporting a means for organizing stationery items in a defined location with suitable placement to allow the user to access the writing items as needed.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an auxiliary device for organizing writing instruments comprises a cylindrical frame having a first and a second disc designed to be positioned on a rigid surface such that the first disc is securely housed on the surface; a microphone integrated into the frame to allow a user to input voice commands to activate / deactivate the device; an electromagnetic spring spirally arranged between the first and second discs to expand / contract to unfold the frame to assist the user in placing a desired stationery item in the frame in a plurality of slots notched in the first disc; an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the frame;to determine the dimensions of the stationery item, a plurality of telescopically operated rods integrated between the peripheral portion of the first and second discs for expanding / contracting the frame to enlarge / reduce the size of the frame, and a device capable of determining the dimensions of the stationery item and the frame with a view to properly placing the items in the frame, an ultrasonic sensor embedded in the frame and synchronized with the imaging unit to detect incorrect placement of the items in the frame, a motorized circular slider arranged on the peripheral portion of the second disc for imparting the required displacement to a motorized clamp integrated into the slider, a laser measurement sensor embedded in the frame for detecting the dimensions of the items, a plurality of suction cups arranged under the frame,to adhere to the surface to fix the frame on the surface, a weight block is installed on the center portion of the first disc to provide additional stabilization of the frame on the surface, and a battery is configured with the device to provide a continuous power supply to electronically operated components connected to the device.

[0015] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations may be possible which would fall within the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0016] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a writing instrument organizing an auxiliary device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following description contains the preferred embodiment of an embodiment of the present invention. It will be apparent from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0018] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with “including,” “with,” and “characterized by”) may be replaced by the respective partially closed terms “consists essentially of,” “consists essentially of,” and the like, or the respective closed terms “consists of,” “consists of,” and the like.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to both the singular and the plural unless explicitly stated that only the singular is meant.

[0020] The present invention relates to a writing tool organizing auxiliary device capable of assisting a user in organizing stationery without causing misplacement of the stationery, thereby facilitating the user's access to the stationery for writing.

[0021] Referring to Fig.1 is an isometric view of an auxiliary device for organizing a writing instrument, comprising a cylindrical frame 101 with a first and a second disc 102, a microphone 103 integrated into the frame 101, an electromagnetic spring 104 arranged spirally between the first and the second disc 102, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 installed on the frame 101, a plurality of telescopically actuated rods 106 arranged between the peripheral portion of the first and the second disc 102, a motorized clamp 108 arranged on the slider 107, a plurality of telescopically actuated rods 106 integrated between the peripheral portion of the first and the second disc 102, a motorized circular slider 107 mounted on the peripheral portion of the second disc 102 is arranged,a motorized clamp 108 integrated on the slider 107, several suction cups 109 arranged below the frame 101, and a weight block 110 installed on the central portion of the first disc 102.

[0022] The proposed device consists of a cylindrical frame 101 with a first and a second disc 102, which are used to develop and position themselves on a solid surface so that the first disc 102 is securely housed on the surface. A weight block 110 is installed on the central part of the first disc 102 to provide additional stabilization of the frame 101 on the surface. Below the frame 101, a plurality of suction cups 109 are arranged in a number of 4 to 6, which adhere to the surface to secure the frame 101 to the surface. The suction cups 109 create a partial vacuum within the suction cups 109 when they are pressed over the surface by forcing the air out of the suction cups 109, as a negative pressure is created in the suction area.At this time, the atmospheric pressure outside the suction cups 109 pushes down the negative pressure region inside the suction cups 109 to create a negative pressure that adheres to the surface and fixes the frame 101 to the surface, thereby properly accommodating the frame 101 on the surface.

[0023] Furthermore, a microphone 103 is integrated into the frame 101, which a user can access to give voice commands to activate and deactivate the device. The microphone 103 receives sound waves generated in the form of vibrations by the energy emitted by the voice command. The sound waves are then transmitted to a membrane equipped with a coil. As the waves are transmitted within the membrane, the membrane encounters the waves, causing the coil to move the membrane in a reciprocating motion in the presence of the magnetic field generated by the coil.

[0024] The electrical signal is then emitted from the coil due to the reciprocating motion of the diaphragm, which is further transmitted to a microcontroller connected to the microphone 103 to process and analyze the signal to detect a voice command given by the user. After processing the voice commands, the microcontroller actuates an electromagnetic spring 104, which is spirally mounted between the first and second discs 102, to expand / contract and unfold the frame 101.

[0025] The spring 104 consists of a conductive coil that, when an electric current flows through the coil, creates a magnetic field around the coil, resulting in the generation of a magnetic force that energizes the spring 104. When the current drops, the spring 104 is de-energized. Activating and deactivating the spring 104 assists in expanding and contracting the frame 101, allowing the user to place a desired stationery item within the frame 101 in several slots on the first plate 102. The stationery items include, among others, a ballpoint pen, a pencil, and a crayon.

[0026] Furthermore, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 is installed on the frame 101 to capture the dimensions of the stationery item. The imaging unit 105 consists of a camera and a processor that work together to detect the dimensions of the stationery item. An AI (artificial intelligence) protocol encrypted with the processor is connected to the image processing unit to enhance its functionality and capabilities. The AI ​​protocols are used to process and analyze the images captured by the camera, allowing it to perform various tasks beyond traditional image capture. The AI ​​analysis is performed locally on the camera itself, and real-time processing on the camera enables immediate reactions and faster decision-making.

[0027] The camera captures images of the stationery item using special lenses designed for capturing high-quality images. The captured data is then preprocessed by the processor to improve its quality and prepare it for AI analysis. This preprocessing includes tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, and color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis, which use machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the images.

[0028] The camera is capable of analyzing the stationery item and providing real-time updates or alerts about the stationery item based on predefined rules or criteria. The stationery item's dimensions are determined based on the extraction of data from the captured images. Based on the stationery item's dimensions, the microcontroller actuates a plurality of telescopically actuated rods 106, ranging in number from 4 to 6 and integrated between the peripheral part of the first and second discs 102, to extend / retract to increase / decrease the dimensions of the frame 101. The rods 106 are equipped with a pneumatic unit activated by the microcontroller to enable the extension and retraction of the rods 106. The pneumatic unit consists of an air compressor, an air cylinder, air valves, and a piston.The air valve allows the compressed air to enter and exit the compressor.

[0029] Additionally, the valve opens, and compressed air enters the cylinder, increasing the cylinder's air pressure. The piston is connected to the cylinder, and due to the increase in air pressure, the piston extends, causing the rods 106 to expand and contract the dimensions of the frame 101 so that the objects can be properly accommodated within the frame 101. An ultrasonic sensor is integrated into the frame 101 and is synchronized with the imaging unit 105 to detect improper placement of the objects within the frame 101. The ultrasonic sensor consists of a transducer that functions as both a transmitter and a receiver, working together to detect improper placement of the objects within the frame 101.

[0030] The transducer typically contains a piezoelectric crystal or similar material. When an electrical signal is applied to the crystal, it vibrates at a high frequency, typically in the ultrasonic range above 20 kHz. When the transducer is activated, it converts the electrical energy into mechanical vibrations or waves. These vibrations are transmitted into the object as a focused beam of ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic waves propagate from the transducer in a cone shape.

[0031] When the emitted ultrasonic waves hit the stationary object, a portion of the waves is reflected back to the sensor. The strength of the reflection depends on factors such as the distance, size, and surface texture of the stationery item. The same transducer that emitted the ultrasonic waves now acts as a receiver. It captures the reflected waves that bounce off the stationery item and converts them back into electrical signals. The sensor measures the time it takes for the ultrasonic waves to travel from the sensor to the stationery item. The ultrasonic sensor now starts a timer when the waves are emitted and stops it when the reflected waves are detected. The elapsed time is called the "time of flight" (TOF).

[0032] Using the known speed of sound in the medium through which the waves travel, the misplacement of the objects in the frame 101 is calculated. Based on the calculation, the microcontroller actuates a motorized circular slider 107, located on a peripheral part of the second disc 102, to move a motorized clamp 108, integrated into the slider 107, in the desired direction and position the clamp 108 near the object. The slider 107 consists of a rail unit that provides a guided path for linear movement. The rail unit typically includes a pair of parallel rails or tracks along which the carriage 107 moves. The carriage, also called a stage or frame 101, is equipped with a mechanism that minimizes friction and ensures smooth movement. This includes the use of ball bearings.

[0033] The carriage 107 contains a motor and a drive mechanism to generate linear motion. The motor is connected to a drive mechanism, such as a belt, lead screw, or ball screw. The drive mechanism converts the motor's rotary motion into linear motion and drives the carriage along the rail unit to move the clamp 108 and position it near the object. A laser measurement sensor is integrated into the frame 101 to detect the dimensions of the objects.

[0034] The laser measurement sensor sends laser beams to two points on the objects, forming a triangle between the objects and the point on the sensor from which the laser beams are emitted. The beams are reflected back toward the sensor and detected by the sensor at the angle formed between the emitted point and the surface the laser beams impinge on. After the laser measurement sensor has collected the required data about the objects' dimensions, it sends it to the microcontroller. After receiving the data, the microcontroller analyzes the data to determine the objects' dimensions.

[0035] Based on the detection of the dimensions of the items, the microcontroller actuates the clamp 108 to grasp the misplaced items and position the items in a suitable slot according to a predetermined placement of the items. The clamp 108 is equipped with a hinge activated by the microcontroller to allow reciprocating movement of the clamp 108 to grasp the misplaced items and place the items in the appropriate slot according to a predefined placement of the items, thereby assisting the user in organizing stationery items. Herein, each of the slots is predetermined for the placement of a specific item, which corresponds to, but is not limited to, a ballpoint pen, pencil, and colored pencils.

[0036] A battery (not shown in the diagram) is connected to the device to power all the electrical and electronic components necessary for its proper operation. The battery is connected to the microcontroller and supplies the microcontroller with direct current (DC). The microcontroller then sends this current to the specific electrical or electronic components, depending on the sequence of operations, so they can effectively perform their respective functions.

[0037] The present invention functions best in the following manner, which comprises the cylindrical frame 101 having a first and second disc 102, wherein the frame 101 is designed to be positioned on a rigid surface such that the first disc 102 is housed on the surface in a secured manner. A microphone 103 allows a user to input voice commands to activate / deactivate the device, whereupon the built-in microcontroller actuates the electromagnetic spring 104 to expand / contract it to unfold the frame 101, allowing the user to place a user-desired stationery item within the frame 101 in a plurality of slots machined into the first disc 102.The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 determines the dimensions of the stationery item, whereupon the microcontroller operates the telescopically operated rods 106, which are integrated between the peripheral part of the first and second discs 102, to extend / retract to increase / reduce the dimensions of the frame 101 to properly accommodate the items within the frame 101. Furthermore, the ultrasonic sensor detects incorrect placement of the items within the frame 101, whereupon the microcontroller operates the motorized circular slider 107 to move a motorized clamp 108 in the desired direction and position the clamp 108 near the item.In addition, the laser measurement sensor detects the dimensions of the items, whereupon the microcontroller actuates the clamp 108 to detect the misplaced items and position them in a suitable slot according to a predetermined placement of the items, thereby assisting the user in organizing the stationery items.

[0038] Although the scope of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 5437399A

[0004] US 20140263496A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] An auxiliary device for organizing a writing instrument, comprising: i) a cylindrical frame 101 having a first and a second disc 102, the frame 101 being designed to be positioned on a fixed surface in such a way that the first disc 102 is housed on the surface in a secured manner; ii) a microphone 103 integrated into the frame 101 to enable a user to input voice commands to activate / deactivate the device, based on which a built-in microcontroller spirally actuates an electromagnetic spring 104 arranged between the first and second discs 102 to expand / contract to unfold the frame 101 to enable the user to place a stationery item desired by the user in the frame 101 in a plurality of slots machined into the first disc 102; iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 installed on the frame 101 and paired with a processor to capture and process a plurality of images in the vicinity of the frame 101 to determine the dimensions of the stationery item, respectively, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a plurality of telescopically actuated rods 106 integrated between the peripheral portion of the first and second discs 102 to extend / contract to increase / decrease the dimensions of the frame 101 to properly accommodate the items in the frame 101; iv) an ultrasonic sensor embedded in the frame 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 105 to detect incorrect placement of the objects in the frame 101, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a motorized circular slider 107 arranged on a peripheral portion of the second disc 102 to provide a motorized clamp 108 integrated into the slider 107 with the required displacement to position the clamp 108 near the object; and v) a laser measurement sensor embedded in the frame 101 to determine the dimensions of the items, based on which the microcontroller actuates the clamp 108 to obtain a grip of the misplaced items in order to position the items in a suitable slot according to a predetermined placement of the items, thereby assisting the user in organizing the stationery items. [2] The device according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of suction cups 109 are arranged below the frame 101 to adhere to the surface and fix the frame 101 to the surface. [3] The device according to claim 1, wherein a weight block 110 is installed on the central part of the first disc 102 to provide additional stability to the frame 101 on the surface. [4] The device of claim 1, wherein the stationery items correspond to, but are not limited to, a ballpoint pen, a pencil, and colored pens. [5] The device of claim 1, wherein each of the slots is predefined for the placement of a particular object. [6] The device of claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with the device to provide a continuous power supply to electronically operated components connected to the device.

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