Electronic device pairing based on proximity and direction

Abstract

Presented herein are various arrangements for establishing a link between two electronic devices. A pairing mode for establishing a link can be activated. A first electronic wireless device can determine that a distance to a second wireless electronic device satisfies a distance threshold criterion. In response to the pairing mode being activated and the distance to the second wireless electronic device satisfying the distance threshold criterion, a graphical element indicative of a direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device, such as a light emission effect, can be presented.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 146,118, filed February 5, 2021, entitled “Systems and methods for displaying proximity of an electronic device, and associated devices”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] Pairing two electronic devices has become quite common. A typical pairing process involves manually identifying each of the two devices and explicitly confirming that they should be paired. For example, a user might expect to pair wireless headphones with a smartphone. In this example, the user identifies the headphones via the interface on the phone by selecting an identifier for the headphones from a list (e.g., a default or user-specified name), and also confirms that the two devices should be paired.

[0004] This arrangement can be frustrating for users if there are a large number of eligible devices within a certain range. For example, a user trying to complete the pairing process in a conference room or on an airplane might be given a list of numerous devices to choose from for pairing. The process can be even more frustrating if the user doesn't know the identifier of the device to be paired and has to guess. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In some embodiments, a method for establishing a link between two electronic devices is presented. The method may include activating a pairing mode for establishing the link by a first wireless electronic device. The method may include determining, by the first wireless electronic device, that the distance to the second wireless electronic device meets a distance threshold criterion. The method may include, in response to the activation of the pairing mode and the distance to the second wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, displaying graphical elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device via an electronic display of the first wireless electronic device.

[0006] Embodiments of this method may include one or more of the following features: The method may include activating a pairing mode by a second wireless electronic device for establishing a link with a first wireless electronic device. The method may include determining, by the second wireless electronic device, that the distance to the first wireless electronic device meets a distance threshold criterion. The method may include, in response to activating the pairing mode at the second wireless electronic device and the distance to the first wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, displaying a second graphic element indicating a second direction and a second distance to the first wireless electronic device via a second electronic display of the second wireless electronic device, such that the second graphic element is displayed simultaneously with a graphic element displayed by the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device. The method may include, while displaying the graphic element indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device via the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device, receiving user input indicating that pairing with the second wireless electronic device should be performed by the first wireless electronic device. The method may include, in response to the user input, pairing between the first and second wireless electronic devices. The graphic element may include a light-emitting effect indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device. This light-emitting effect may be displayed only within a defined distance at the edge of the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device. The method can include: selecting a second wireless electronic device for pairing while in pairing mode by a first wireless electronic device in the absence of user input indicating an identifier for the second wireless electronic device. The method can include updating graphic elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device by the first wireless electronic device based on changes in distance, direction, or both to the second wireless electronic device. Updating the graphic elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device can include changing one or more of the following characteristics of the graphic elements: intensity; brightness; size; and color. The method can include measuring the distance to the second wireless electronic device by the first wireless electronic device using a method selected from the group consisting of: ultra-wideband (UWB) radar; light detection and ranging (LIDAR); signal strength; and ultrasound. The method can include determining by the first wireless electronic device that a second distance to a third wireless electronic device does not meet a distance threshold criterion. The method can include, in response to activating pairing mode and the distance to the third wireless electronic device not meeting the distance threshold criterion, displaying a list of identifiers including the identifier of the third wireless electronic device via an electronic display of the first wireless electronic device.

[0007] In some embodiments, a device or system for pairing electronic devices is presented. For example, a first wireless electronic device may be present. The device may include a housing; an electronic display housed within the housing; a wireless communication interface housed within the housing; and a processing system including one or more processors. The processor may be configured to activate a pairing mode. The processor may be configured to determine that the distance to a second wireless electronic device meets a distance threshold criterion. The processor may be configured to, in response to the activation of the pairing mode and the distance to the second wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, cause the electronic display to display graphic elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device.

[0008] System embodiments may include a second wireless electronic device, which may include a second housing; a second electronic display housed within the second housing; a second wireless communication interface housed within the second housing; and a second processing system including one or more processors. These one or more processors may be configured to activate a pairing mode. These one or more processors may be configured to determine that the distance to the first wireless electronic device meets a distance threshold criterion. These processors may be configured to, in response to activating the pairing mode at the second wireless electronic device and the distance to the first wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, cause the second electronic display to display a second graphic element indicating the direction and distance to the first wireless electronic device, such that the second graphic element is displayed simultaneously with the graphic element displayed by the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device. In some embodiments, the second wireless electronic device does not include an electronic display.

[0009] Such a system or embodiment of such a first electronic device can include one or more of the following features: The processing system of the first wireless electronic device can also be configured to receive user input indicating pairing with the second wireless electronic device while displaying graphic elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device. The processing system of the first device can also be configured to pair with the second wireless electronic device in response to user input. The graphic elements can be in the form of a light-emitting effect indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device. This light-emitting effect can be displayed only within a limited distance of the edge of the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device. The processing system of the first device can also be configured to select the second wireless electronic device for pairing when in pairing mode, in the absence of user input indicating an identifier for the second wireless electronic device. The processing system of the first device can also be configured to update the graphic elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device based on changes in distance, direction, or both. The processing system of the first device can also be configured to update the graphic elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device, including the processing system being configured to change one or more of the following characteristics of the graphic elements: intensity; brightness; size; and color. The processing system of the first device can also be configured to receive distances to the second wireless electronic device measured using methods selected from the group consisting of: ultra-wideband (UWB) radar; light detection and ranging (LIDAR); signal strength; and ultrasound. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosed subject matter. The drawings also illustrate embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles of embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Structural details are not intended to be shown in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding of the disclosed subject matter and the various ways in which it may be practiced.

[0011] Figure 1 An embodiment of a system capable of pairing electronic devices is illustrated.

[0012] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates two electronic devices that are to be paired.

[0013] Figure 3 The illustration shows two electronic devices that have activated a pairing mode that indicates proximity and direction.

[0014] Figure 4 The illustration shows two electronic devices being moved closer to each other, activating a pairing mode that indicates proximity and orientation.

[0015] Figure 5The illustration shows two electronic devices moving closer to each other in different directions, activating a pairing mode that indicates proximity and direction.

[0016] Figure 6 The illustration shows two electronic devices moving closer to each other in another direction, activating a pairing mode that indicates proximity and direction.

[0017] Figure 7 The illustration shows an electronic device with a display screen that activates a pairing mode indicating proximity and direction.

[0018] Figure 8 The illustration shows another embodiment of two electronic devices that have activated a pairing mode indicating proximity and orientation.

[0019] Figure 9 The illustration shows another embodiment of two electronic devices that, when moved closer together, activate a pairing mode indicating proximity and orientation.

[0020] Figure 10 The illustration shows an embodiment of two electronic devices positioned at an angle relative to each other.

[0021] Figure 11 An embodiment of a method for indicating direction and distance for pairing modes to establish a link between two electronic devices is illustrated.

[0022] Figure 12 The illustration shows an example of a method for establishing a link between two electronic devices using multiple pairing modes. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Unlike requiring a user to select a device from a list for pairing, the embodiments detailed herein allow for a streamlined process of determining the device for pairing and / or visually indicating the device with which pairing will be performed. The wireless electronic device can be configured to perform distance measurements to the available wireless device for pairing. A remote wireless device that has pairing enabled, is closest to the device, and is within a threshold distance can be determined. This closest remote device can be assumed to be the device the user wishes to pair with their wireless electronic device.

[0024] In response to the identification of the remote wireless device, a graphical indicator is displayed on the electronic display of the user's wireless electronic device, indicating the distance and direction to the remote wireless device for pairing. If the remote wireless device also has an electronic display, a similar graphical indicator of its distance and direction to the user's wireless electronic device can be displayed. These graphical indicators are dynamic, such that one or more graphical indicators are updated to indicate changes in distance and direction as the devices move relative to each other. Even without knowing the identifiers of the remote wireless device or the user's wireless electronic device, the user can use one or more graphical indicators to confirm that the correct wireless devices are being paired.

[0025] As used herein, “pairing” can refer to establishing a one-way or two-way data link between two electronic devices. For example, for two devices communicating via Bluetooth or some other direct short-range communication protocol, pairing is the first step. This pairing process is a form of information registration that allows the devices to exchange necessary information about each other, including encryption, capabilities, identifiers, etc. As used herein, “pairing” can also refer to temporary data exchange, such as data or file transfers or triggering device output media. For example, the pairing process detailed herein can be used to configure which device will output media segments.

[0026] Furthermore, the embodiments detailed herein can be used in situations where pairing is not intended. Conversely, in some cases, knowing the distance and direction to another wireless electronic device may be helpful for other purposes; therefore, the embodiments detailed herein can also be used without pairing considerations. For example, the arrangements detailed herein can help locate a lost device. Another arrangement may involve identifying another person's remote electronic device, such as granting permission to access an account.

[0027] Further details regarding this embodiment and other embodiments are presented in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 An embodiment of system 100 capable of pairing electronic devices is illustrated. System 100 includes wireless electronic device 110 (“Device 110”) and wireless electronic device 120 (“Device 120”). Device 110 includes: a processing system 111; a display 112; a user input component 113; one or more distance and direction measurement components 114; and a wireless interface 115. All these components can be housed within a casing of Device 110. Typically, any wireless electronic device capable of pairing with another wireless electronic device can function as Wireless Electronic Device 110. Examples of Device 110 can include: smartphones, laptops, gaming devices, desktop computers, personal digital assistants, and smart home devices (smart home hubs, smart thermostats, smart home assistants, etc.).

[0028] Processing system 111 may include one or more dedicated or general-purpose processors. Such dedicated processors may include processors specifically designed to perform the functions of the components detailed herein. These dedicated processors may be ASICs or FPGAs, which are general-purpose components physically and electrically configured to perform the functions detailed herein. Such general-purpose processors may execute dedicated software stored using one or more non-transitory processor-readable media, such as random access memory (RAM), flash memory, hard disk drives (HDDs), or solid-state drives (SSDs). Processing system 111 is capable of communicating with display 112, user input components 113, distance and orientation measurement components 114, and wireless interface 115.

[0029] The display 112 can be a graphic electronic display capable of displaying color or monochrome graphics. In some embodiments, a simple form of the display 112 comprising multiple lights (such as an LED array) can be used. Such an array of lights can be used to indicate distance and direction, as detailed herein.

[0030] User input component 113 allows a user to provide input to wireless electronic device 110. User input component 113 may be a touchscreen interface incorporated as part of display 112. User input component 113 may be one or more buttons, switches, or possibly an audio interface for receiving verbal input.

[0031] Distance and direction measurement component 114 may be different from or integrated with wireless interface 115. Distance and direction measurement component 114 is used to determine at least the approximate distance and direction to another wireless device—such as a wireless electronic device 120 capable of pairing with it. In some embodiments, distance and direction measurement component 114 may include wireless interface 115, which may use signal strength as an approximation of distance. In some embodiments, component 114 includes an ultra-wideband radar sensor capable of determining the distance and direction to a wireless device to which it is to be paired. In some embodiments, component 114 includes a camera capable of locating and determining the distance and direction to a wireless device to which it is to be paired. In some embodiments, component 114 includes a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensor capable of determining the distance and direction to a wireless device to which it is to be paired. In some embodiments, component 114 includes an ultrasonic sensor capable of determining the distance and direction to a wireless device to which it is to be paired. Such an ultrasonic sensor may include one or more microphones and an ultrasonic transducer. Various other types of sensors may be used as component 114 to determine the distance and direction to other relatively nearby wireless devices.

[0032] Wireless interface 115 can represent a wireless interface to be paired. For example, pairing can be performed to communicate via Bluetooth®. Other forms of device-to-device communication protocols that can use this pairing arrangement detailed herein may include: Bluetooth LE®, ZigBee®, Z-Wave®, 6LoWPAN®, Thread®, NFC, and WiFiDirect®. Generally, wireless interface 115 can be understood as any short-range device-to-device communication protocol.

[0033] Wireless electronic device 120 may have components similar to those of wireless electronic device 110: processing system 121; display 122; user input component 1232; distance and direction measurement component 124; and wireless interface 125. For example, wireless electronic device 120 may also be any wireless electronic device capable of pairing with another wireless electronic device. Examples of wireless electronic device 120 may include: smartphones, laptops, gaming devices, desktop computers, personal digital assistants, and smart home devices (smart home hub devices, smart home assistants, smart carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, smart thermostats, etc.). Alternatively, wireless electronic device 120 may not have all the components of wireless electronic device 110. For example, wireless electronic device 120 may not have: display 122, user input component 123, and / or distance and direction measurement component 124. Other examples of wireless electronic devices 120 may include: wireless headsets, wireless game controllers, wireless speakerphones, wireless speakers, wireless sprinkler controllers, smart home devices (e.g., smart smoke detectors, smart carbon monoxide detectors, smart home speaker devices, smart thermostats, etc.), IoT devices, and other forms of headless devices.

[0034] Although Figure 2 The accompanying figures focus on embodiments involving pairing. It should be understood that the embodiments detailed herein can be used to display distance and direction when one or both of the electronic devices are used for actions other than pairing. For example, a user might expect to use device 110 to locate device 120.

[0035] Figure 2An embodiment 200 of two electronic devices to be paired is illustrated. In this example, device 110 is a smartphone and device 120 is also a smartphone. Pairing can be performed to establish a communication link, send files, send contact cards, exchange data, etc. In this example, both device 110 and device 120 have displays (display 112 and display 122, respectively). Initially, device 110, device 120, or both may not have been set to pairing mode. Additionally or alternatively, distance 201 may be too large for display 112 or display 122 to display any pairing indication. Thus, no graphical indication of distance or direction to the other device is displayed on displays 112 and 122.

[0036] Figure 3 The illustration shows embodiment 300 of devices 110 and 120 with pairing modes indicating proximity and direction activated. Devices 110 and 120 may have already been set to pairing mode. Device 110 determines that the nearest device for pairing is device 120 and that device 120 is within a threshold distance. In some embodiments, this determination enables a fast pairing mode on one or both devices. Distance 301 can be understood as shorter than distance 201. Device 120 may also determine that the nearest device for pairing is device 110 and that device 110 is within a threshold distance. In some embodiments, only a single device (such as device 110) performs an evaluation to meet the criteria for pairing with another device.

[0037] In response to determining that device 120 is eligible for quick pairing mode, a graphic element 310 is displayed on display 112. A single graphic element (graphic element 310) is capable of indicating both the distance to device 120 and the direction to device 120. Figure 2 In the example, graphic element 310 is a light-emitting effect. The light-emitting effect involves gradually or gradient changes in the brightness or intensity of display 112 in direction 312. In some embodiments, display 112 becomes brighter in the direction of device 120; in some embodiments, display 112 becomes darker in the direction opposite to device 120.

[0038] When a portion of a display has an illuminating effect as disclosed herein, that portion of the display can be illuminated with one or more colors, in addition to any colors already displayed or other than those already displayed. For example, if a phone is locked when another device is near its edge, a portion of the display along that edge can be illuminated with light of an additional color superimposed on any lock screen image being displayed (similar indications can also be presented on anything displayed on the display other than the lock screen). In the case of device 110, the illuminating effect can be brightest at edge 117, with its intensity decreasing proportionally or exponentially with distance from edge 117. At a distance from the edge of the display closest to other devices, the existing image can be altered without changing the display before adding illuminating effect.

[0039] As a concrete example, when devices are within a maximum range (such as 100cm, 20cm, 15cm, 10cm, 5cm, or any other desired threshold), light emission can be added to the display along the edge closest to the device, centered on the point closest to the device from the edge. The emission can extend from this edge with an initial brightness at a first distance, which decreases at greater distances. Continuing with the concrete example, the emission effect can decrease to 50% of the initial brightness at an initial brightness centered at the edge closest to another device, at 1cm, 2cm, 3cm, 4cm, 5cm, or any other desired threshold. The emission effect can be circular, such that the decrease in brightness occurs at any given radius starting from a point on the edge of the device. As another example, the emission can extend horizontally or vertically across the device from the initial edge, such that the brightness decreases in a gradient along a line perpendicular to the edge closest to the other device. The rate of brightness reduction of the emission effect can be related to the distance between the devices. For example, as devices move closer together, the emission can extend across a larger portion of the display with its initial brightness, and / or the rate of reduction in emission can vary based on the distance between the devices. As a specific example, when the devices are separated by a first threshold distance, the light emission may extend across 10%, 15%, 20%, or any other desired portion of the display. As the devices move closer to each other, the portion of the display including the light emission may increase proportionally until the devices are separated by a second distance, at which point the light emission may extend across 20%, 25%, 30%, or any other desired portion of the display, which may be greater than or less than the initial portion, and this can be determined as a direct or other relationship with the distance between the devices.

[0040] The illumination effect can be achieved by increasing the intensity of the illumination on the pixels in the portion of the display to be illuminated. This increase can be color-uniform, making the illumination appear as white lighting or attached to any image displayed on the display, or it can be limited to one or more colors, making the illumination appear as an overlay on an existing display, or as a red, green, blue, orange, yellow, or any other color overlay on a blank screen when no image is displayed. In the case of illumination attached to any other displayed image, the illumination may appear translucent. Alternatively, the illumination can be displayed on the display in place of any pre-existing image, making the illumination appear to "cover" the pre-existing image.

[0041] Alternatively, or in addition to additional brightness, the “emission” disclosed herein can be achieved by dimming areas of the screen other than the area displaying the emission. For example, instead of illuminating or increasing the brightness of parts of the display with a circular or linear gradient as described above, an inverse gradient can be applied to other parts of the screen, making them darker, and thus the emission appears brighter by comparison.

[0042] In addition, although Figure 3 The example illustration shows the luminescence effect of a single edge 117 of the display 112 originating from device 110. It should be understood that the luminescence effect can be strongest or brightest along some or all of the two edges to more accurately indicate direction, such as relative to... Figure 5 Instructions.

[0043] exist Figure 3 In the example, the graphic element 310 indicates distance by the intensity of the illumination effect. For example, along the edge 117 of the display (which is the edge closest to device 120), the initial intensity of the illumination effect can indicate the distance to device 120. The greater the intensity, the closer device 120 is detected.

[0044] Similar to device 110, device 120 is capable of performing its own distance and orientation measurements to device 110. Based on device 120 also being configured for quick pairing mode, graphic element 320 is presented. Graphic element 320 may have the same or approximately the same intensity, but may indicate opposite directions 314, which indicate the direction to device 110. Therefore, the intensity of the luminous effect is strongest at the display edge 127, because the display edge 127 is closest to device 110. In embodiments where two devices (such as device 120 and device 110) have graphic displays, symmetry can exist between the graphic elements: graphic elements 310 and 320 will present the same (or approximately the same) distance indication and opposite directions, as indicated by directions 312 and 314.

[0045] The use of graphic element 310 in the form of a glowing effect is just one possible way to use graphic elements to indicate both distance and direction. For example, in some embodiments, arrows may be used, whose size or color and the direction they point can vary. Other forms of effects are also possible, such as those related to... Figure 8 and 9 Detailed description of the alternative luminescence effect.

[0046] Figure 4 The illustration shows embodiment 400 where devices 110 and 120 move closer to each other and activate a pairing mode indicating proximity and direction. While this increase (and any corresponding decrease) in light emission... Figure 3-10 The intensity is depicted as (e.g., darker / lighter shadows), but this is merely for the simplicity of the diagram. Embodiment 400 represents a situation similar to Embodiment 300, but with a shorter distance 401. Thus, graphic elements 410 and 420 have been changed to indicate a reduced distance, but still indicate the same direction. Graphic element 410 has a more intense luminous effect along the display edge 117 than graphic element 310 (and a proportionally more dramatic gradient or step across display 112). Similarly, graphic element 420 has a more intense luminous effect along the display edge 127 than graphic element 320 (and a proportionally more dramatic gradient or step across display 122).

[0047] Although Figure 4 This demonstrates how graphic elements can be adjusted based on devices 110 and 120 moving closer to each other, whereas the opposite could occur if devices 110 and 120 move further apart.

[0048] Although Figure 3 and Figure 4 The differences between the two devices illustrate how graphic elements can be modified in response to changes in distance, but the orientation between devices 110 and 120 remains constant. Figure 5 The illustration shows an embodiment 500 in which devices 110 and 120 are close to each other and have an active pairing mode, but the orientation between the devices has changed.

[0049] In embodiment 500, graphic elements 510 and 520 maintain the same or approximately the same intensity, but the orientation of the graphic elements has changed. The intensity of the luminous effect of graphic element 510 is greatest near the upper corner of the display. Graphic element 510 forms a gradient of intensity that increases along direction 512. Similarly, the intensity of the luminous effect of graphic element 520 is greatest near the lower corner of the display 122. Graphic element 520 forms a gradient of intensity that increases along direction 522, which is the direction toward device 110.

[0050] In other embodiments, as the orientation of the two devices shifts relative to each other, the luminous effect can track other devices along the edges of the device display, such that the brightest or most intense portion of the luminous effect points to other devices, such as those indicated by direction 512.

[0051] When users move their devices 110 and 120 relative to each other, the graphic elements 510 and 520 are updated to indicate the direction and distance to the other device. Figure 6 The illustration shows embodiment 600, in which devices 110 and 120 are very close to each other, but slightly offset from one another. In embodiment 600, the luminescence effect of graphic element 610 is most intense along the top edge 698 of display 112, but a slightly less intense luminescence effect is also present along the left edge 698. This arrangement indicates that device 120 is generally above device 110, but slightly offset to the left. The luminescence effect has an angled gradient to indicate direction 612. Similarly, the luminescence effect of graphic element 620 is most intense along the bottom edge of display 122. The luminescence effect has an angled gradient to indicate direction 622.

[0052] exist Figure 3-6 In the detailed embodiments, devices 110 and 120 may perform their own distance and orientation measurements to the other device. In other embodiments, one of the devices performs the measurements and sends a command to the other device instructing how the graphic element should be rendered. For example, device 110 may send a command to device 120 instructing that graphic element 620 and its characteristics (e.g., orientation, intensity) should be rendered.

[0053] Although Figure 2-6 The arrangement focuses on having displays on both electronic devices, but in other embodiments, there may be only one display. Figure 7 An embodiment 700 of device 110 is illustrated with a pairing mode indicating proximity and direction activated. In embodiment 700, electronic device 720 does not have a display screen. Thus, graphic elements indicating distance and direction are only presented on display 112. However, the graphic elements 710 are updated as device 110 and electronic device 720 move relative to each other.

[0054] Furthermore, in some embodiments, device 110 may not have a display screen. Instead, other lighting or visual components may be present, such as a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional array of LEDs or other types of lighting elements. For example, the device may have a ring of lighting elements. The color, intensity, or blinking / animation pattern of the lighting elements can indicate distance, while which lighting element on the circle is illuminated can indicate direction. For example, a smoke detector with circular lighting elements can indicate direction by illuminating a portion of the circle and indicate distance based on the blinking, animation, color, or intensity of the light.

[0055] Figure 8 The illustration depicts embodiment 800 of two electronic devices activating a pairing mode indicating proximity and direction. In embodiment 800, various forms of graphic elements are arranged along the edge of the display to indicate proximity and direction. These graphic elements exist only within a defined distance from the edge of the display. For example, a graphic element may extend only from the edge of the display to a maximum of 1%, 3%, 5%, or 10% of the width or height of the display. The linear illumination effect of graphic elements 810 and 820 emits light at a fixed distance from the edge of the display, rather than obscuring or altering the presentation of content displayed on the display. That is, the linear illumination effect can have a defined pixel width along only one or two edges of the display, where the location of maximum intensity, brightness, or color indicates direction. The center of graphic element 810 (where it is the location of maximum intensity) can indicate the direction to device 110 (indicated by a line drawn from the center of display 112 through the center of graphic element 810). The intensity or size / length of graphic element 810 can indicate distance. Graphic element 810 can be color-based or can be an illumination effect that alters the presentation of the underlying content displayed by display 112. This luminous effect can be achieved by changing the brightness, intensity, and / or color displayed by the display 112.

[0056] If the electronic device 120 has a display as shown, the center of the graphic element 820 can indicate the direction to the device 110 (by a line drawn from the center of the display 122 through the center of the graphic element 820). The intensity and / or length of the graphic element 810 can indicate the distance to other devices such as the device 110. Like the graphic element 810, the graphic element 820 can be color-based or can be a glowing effect that alters the presentation of the underlying content displayed by the display 122.

[0057] As with other embodiments of the luminous effect, graphic elements 810 and 820 can be symmetrical. That is, graphic elements 810 and 820 can have the same length and / or intensity, but are positioned along one or more edges closest to the other device to indicate direction. As with other embodiments of the luminous effect, a single graphic element such as graphic element 810 is used to indicate both distance and direction. For example, a single graphic element 810 indicates both distance and direction, rather than using two items such as an arrow and text, or two graphic elements.

[0058] As the distance 801 decreases, the graphic elements 810 and 820 can be modified to reflect the change in distance. Figure 9 The illustration shows embodiment 900, in which two electronic devices are moved closer to each other compared to embodiment 800. Therefore, distance 901 is less than distance 801. Compared to graphic element 810, graphic element 910 can have an overall increased intensity (for a portion or all of graphic element 910) and / or length while maintaining the same position of maximum intensity. This increase in length (the sum across the two edges of the display) and / or intensity can potentially indicate a defined distance to device 120 according to a linear, logarithmic, or exponential distance scale. Graphic element 920 exhibits a symmetrical or nearly symmetrical change compared to graphic element 820.

[0059] Graphic element 910 can extend along multiple edges. Figure 10 The illustration shows embodiment 1000, in which two electronic devices are positioned at an angle relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, when devices 110 and 120 are at an angle to each other, graphic element 1010 can be arranged along the top and side edges of display 112. Similarly, graphic element 1020 can be arranged along the bottom and side edges of display 1222.

[0060] You can use about Figure 1-10 The detailed description of the systems, equipment, and arrangements used to implement various methods. Figure 11 An embodiment of method 1100 for indicating direction and distance for a pairing mode to establish a link between two electronic devices is illustrated. Alternatively, method 1100 can be performed for tasks other than pairing, such as for locating electronic devices. Method 1100 can use Figure 1 The system 100 is performed by one or both of its wireless electronic devices.

[0061] At block 1110, a quick pairing mode can be activated on a first wireless electronic device (“first device”). In some embodiments, the pairing mode is activated based on user input—such as a user instruction to send a file, stream media, or establish a communication link with another wireless electronic device. In other embodiments, the first device can activate the quick pairing mode without direct user input in response to the detection of an eligible second wireless electronic device (“second device”) at block 1120. For example, a user could move the first device and the second device close together, causing the first device to enter pairing mode.

[0062] At box 1120, the first device can determine whether a wireless device is eligible for quick pairing based on one or more criteria. A first distance-based threshold criterion could be that the second device is detected within a maximum predefined distance for quick pairing. For example, a distance less than a predefined value within the 5-50cm range could be the maximum distance for permissible quick pairing to help ensure that pairing only occurs when the user might expect it. A second distance-based threshold criterion could be that the second device is the closest available device for pairing. For example, the two devices could be located close to the first device. The device determined to be closest to the first device could be identified as the device to be paired. (This might happen, for example, on an airplane, when the first device is near many other wireless devices.) Other criteria that could involve determining the eligibility of the second device could include: the second device has pairing enabled, the second device belongs to a type that can pair with the first device, the second device is powered on and has sufficient power to permit pairing, etc. For the remainder of method 1100, it is assumed that the second device is found to be eligible for pairing at box 1120.

[0063] At box 1130, since the second device has been determined to be qualified, a graphical indication of the distance and direction to the second device is provided by the first device. As detailed with respect to system 100, there are various ways in which the distance and direction to the second device can be determined by the first device, including signal strength, UWB, LIDAR, ultrasound, radar, object recognition (e.g., via the camera of the first device), GPS, etc.

[0064] At box 1140, a graphic indication of direction and distance can be presented on the display (or other lighting arrangement) of the first device. As previously detailed and illustrated, the graphic element may use a glowing effect that uses a gradient or gradation of brightness, intensity, or color to indicate direction (along the gradient) and distance (the intensity or brightness of the glowing effect). If a glowing effect is used, it may be layered on top of other content presented on the display of the first device.

[0065] In some embodiments, the characteristics of the graphic element are based at least in part on the identifiers of other devices and / or the prior relationship between the two devices. For example, if the second device is a known device, such as a previously paired device, the color of the glow (e.g., green) can be selected. Alternatively, if the second device is unknown, such as not previously paired, the color of the graphic element can be different, such as red. Alternatively or additionally, the graphic element can, for example, change from a solid animation to a pulsating animation and / or the frequency of the animation can be changed.

[0066] When a user sees the graphical element, they can use it to determine if the device they wish to pair has actually been recognized for pairing by the first device. If the graphical element points in the direction of the device the user wishes to pair with and has an appropriate distance indication, the user can confidently assume the correct device has been identified. If so, the user can provide input at box 1150, such as touch input or swipe, to indicate that pairing should be completed. If the wrong device has been identified, the user will see a graphical indication of an undesirable distance and direction. The user can then provide input at box 1150 to cancel pairing.

[0067] Users can move the first and second devices relative to each other to ensure that the graphical elements update, remain pointed at each other, and correctly reflect changes in distance between the devices. Therefore, as the devices move closer and further apart, the graphical elements update to indicate these positive and negative changes in distance. Updates also include adjusting the orientation of the graphical elements. These updates assure the user that the correct device will be paired. If no input is received at box 1150 for at least a period of time, the distance and orientation to the second wireless device can be measured or otherwise determined again at box 1130. At box 1140, the graphical elements are updated to reflect any changes in the distance and orientation to the second device. From the user's perspective, the graphical elements displayed by the first device's screen appear to be continuously updated based on the distance and orientation to the second device.

[0068] Boxes 1110 to 1140 can also be executed simultaneously by a second device. Therefore, if the second device has a display, its display also presents updated graphical elements indicating the distance and orientation to the first device. This second graphical element further helps the user ensure that the correct two devices have been identified and will be paired.

[0069] Assuming the second device is correct and the user desires to pair the first and second devices, pairing can be performed at box 1160. This can involve exchanging data directly wirelessly or over a wireless network between the two devices, allowing them to have a communication link that can be used for data exchange, such as Bluetooth pairing. In some embodiments, pairing can involve a one-off or ad hoc data exchange, such as sending a link, identifier, file, or other data from the first device to the second device. In various embodiments, pairing can involve the first device launching an application, opening a file, and / or performing some other action, at least in part, based on an identifier and / or its relationship with the second device. For example, if the first device is a tablet and the second device is a smartphone on which the user is composing an email, the tablet can launch an email application with a copy of that email in response to pairing.

[0070] In some embodiments, in addition to graphical elements, the first and / or second devices are also capable of outputting audio via one or more speakers or audio output components, such as headphone jacks or wireless headphone interfaces. The audio can vary in pitch or volume based on the distance and direction between the two devices. If the first device is capable of stereo output, the direction can affect the stereo effect output.

[0071] It is worth noting that, in order to perform the rapid pairing process of method 1100, the user does not need to know the identifiers of the first or second device. Instead, by viewing the graphical elements presented by the first device and possibly by the second device, the user is able to confirm that the correct two devices are to be paired.

[0072] In addition to the quick pairing mode detailed in method 1100, another pairing mode that allows users to perform pairing based on identifiers is also available. Figure 12 An embodiment of method 1200 for establishing a link between two electronic devices using multiple pairing modes is illustrated. Method 1200 is capable of using... Figure 1 The system 100 is performed by one or both of its wireless electronic devices.

[0073] Boxes 1210-1240 can be executed as detailed with respect to method 1100. That is, the user can activate the quick pairing mode, or the first device can activate the quick pairing mode based on determining that another nearby device meets all the necessary criteria.

[0074] As part of the same pairing process or at a different time, at box 1250, it can be determined that no wireless device is eligible for quick pairing based on one or more criteria (such as distance, capability, etc.). In this case, an identifier-based pairing mode can be activated at box 1260.

[0075] In identifier-based pairing mode, a list of available wireless devices, which can be one or more, can be generated at box 1270. This list can list each available wireless device by an identifier, which can be a default identifier or a user-assigned identifier. The criteria for including devices in the list may not be as strict as in quick pairing mode. That is, there may be no maximum distance requirement and / or the wireless device does not necessarily need to be the closest device to the first device.

[0076] From the list, the user can provide user input to select the device to be paired. At box 1280, the first device, while in identifier-based pairing mode, receives user input selecting a wireless device for pairing based on an identifier. Pairing can be performed at box 1290. This can involve wirelessly or directly exchanging data between two devices via a wireless network, allowing the two devices to have a communication link capable of exchanging data, such as Bluetooth pairing. In some embodiments, the pairing can involve a one-time or point-to-point data exchange, such as sending a link, identifier, file, or other data from the first device to the second device.

[0077] It should be noted that the methods, systems, and devices discussed above are intended only as examples. It must be emphasized that various processes or components may be appropriately omitted, substituted, or added in various embodiments. For example, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the methods may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Furthermore, features described with respect to certain embodiments may be combined in various other embodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments may be combined in a similar manner. Additionally, it should be emphasized that technology is constantly evolving; therefore, many elements are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0078] Specific details are set forth in this specification to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known processes, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary details to avoid obscuring the embodiments. This specification provides only exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the foregoing description of the embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with a description of implementation methods for carrying out the embodiments of the invention. Various changes may be made to the function and arrangement of the elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0079] Additionally, it should be noted that embodiments can be described as processes depicted as flowcharts or block diagrams. Although each operation can be described as a sequential process, many operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. The process may have additional steps not included in the diagrams.

[0080] Several embodiments have been described, and those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents can be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the aforementioned elements may simply be components of a larger system, where other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the invention. Furthermore, multiple steps may be taken before, during, or after considering the foregoing elements. Therefore, the above description should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A method for establishing a link between two electronic devices, the method comprising: The pairing mode for establishing the link is activated by the first wireless electronic device; The distance from the first wireless electronic device to the second wireless electronic device meets the distance threshold standard; as well as In response to the activation of the pairing mode and the distance to the second wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, a graphic element including a light-emitting effect indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device is superimposed on the digital content via an electronic display of the first wireless electronic device that presents digital content, wherein the light-emitting effect is positioned on a portion of the display corresponding to the relative position of the second wireless electronic device.

2. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 1, further comprising: The pairing mode for establishing a link with the first wireless electronic device is activated by the second wireless electronic device; The distance to the first wireless electronic device, as determined by the second wireless electronic device, meets the distance threshold standard; as well as In response to the activation of the pairing mode at the second wireless electronic device and the distance to the first wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, a second graphic element indicating a second direction and a second distance to the first wireless electronic device is presented via a second electronic display of the second wireless electronic device, such that the second graphic element is presented simultaneously with the graphic element presented by the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device.

3. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 2, further comprising: While the first wireless electronic device displays the graphic elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device, the first wireless electronic device receives user input indicating that pairing with the second wireless electronic device is to be performed. as well as In response to the user input, the first wireless electronic device and the second wireless electronic device are paired.

4. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 1, wherein, The luminescence effect is only present within a limited distance of the edge of the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device.

5. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 1, further comprising: In the absence of user input indicating an identifier for the second wireless electronic device, the first wireless electronic device selects the second wireless electronic device for pairing while in the pairing mode.

6. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 1, further comprising: The first wireless electronic device updates the graphical elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device based on changes in the distance, direction, or both to the second wireless electronic device.

7. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 6, wherein, Updating the graphic element indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device includes changing one or more of the following characteristics of the graphic element: intensity; brightness; size; and color.

8. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 1, further comprising: The distance to the second wireless electronic device is measured by the first wireless electronic device using a method selected from the group consisting of: ultra-wideband (UWB) radar; light detection and ranging (LIDAR); signal strength; and ultrasound.

9. The method for establishing the link between two electronic devices according to claim 1, further comprising: The second distance from the first wireless electronic device to the third wireless electronic device does not meet the distance threshold standard; as well as In response to the activation of the pairing mode and the distance to the third wireless electronic device not meeting the distance threshold criterion, an identifier list including the identifier of the third wireless electronic device is presented via the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device.

10. A system for pairing electronic devices, the system comprising: The first wireless electronic device includes: shell; An electronic display housed within the casing; The wireless communication interface housed in the housing; and A processing system, comprising one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to: Activate pairing mode; Determine that the distance to the second wireless electronic device meets the distance threshold standard; and In response to the activation of the pairing mode and the distance to the second wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, a graphic element including a light-emitting effect indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device is superimposed on the digital content on the electronic display presenting the digital content, wherein the light-emitting effect is positioned on a portion of the display corresponding to the relative position of the second wireless electronic device.

11. The system of claim 10, further comprising: The second wireless electronic device includes: Second outer shell; The second electronic display housed in the second housing; The second wireless communication interface housed in the second housing; and A second processing system, the second processing system including one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to: Activate the pairing mode; Determining that the distance to the first wireless electronic device satisfies the distance threshold standard; and In response to the activation of the pairing mode at the second wireless electronic device and the distance to the first wireless electronic device meeting the distance threshold criterion, the second electronic display presents a second graphic element indicating the direction and distance to the first wireless electronic device, such that the second graphic element is presented simultaneously with the graphic element presented by the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device.

12. The system according to claim 11, further comprising: The second wireless electronic device includes: The second wireless communication interface housed in the second housing; and The second processing system includes one or more processors, wherein the second wireless electronic device does not include an electronic display.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein, The processing system of the first wireless electronic device is further configured to: While displaying the graphical elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device, user input indicating that pairing with the second wireless electronic device should be performed is received; as well as In response to the user input, it pairs with the second wireless electronic device.

14. The system according to claim 10, wherein, The luminescence effect is only present within a limited distance of the edge of the electronic display of the first wireless electronic device.

15. The system according to claim 10, wherein, The processing system of the first wireless electronic device is configured to select the second wireless electronic device for pairing when in the pairing mode, in the absence of user input indicating an identifier for the second wireless electronic device.

16. The system according to claim 10, wherein, The processing system of the first wireless electronic device is configured to update the graphical elements indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device based on changes in the distance, direction, or both to the second wireless electronic device.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein, The processing system of the first wireless electronic device is configured to update the graphic element indicating the direction and distance to the second wireless electronic device, including the processing system being configured to change one or more of the following characteristics of the graphic element: intensity; brightness; size; and color.

18. The system according to claim 10, wherein, The processing system of the first wireless electronic device is configured to receive the distance to the second wireless electronic device measured using a method selected from the group consisting of: ultra-wideband (UWB) radar; light detection and ranging (LIDAR); signal strength; and ultrasound.

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