Projector

Abstract

The projector (2) according to the present invention comprises an output unit (4) for delivering visual or audiovisual content, at least one motion sensor (24) or sound sensor (22), and a controller (20) in communication with the output unit (4) and the at least one sensor (22, 24). The controller (20) is configured to adjust an output level of the output unit (4) based on a signal from the at least one sensor (22, 24).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to projectors, particularly but not exclusively to projectors of the type that can be used to lull children to sleep. [Background technology]

[0002] There are many products on the market today that aim to put babies and young children to sleep. These products reduce the burden on parents to stay with their children until they fall asleep. These products include automatons and soft toys that play music, projectors that project still images such as a stylized night sky, and in some cases projectors that move or rotate the image to make it more appealing to children. One problem with these products is that they only engage children to a limited extent. For example, a teddy bear that plays music or a projected image of stars can calm a child (even after the novelty wears off) only if the child has an emotional attachment to the product. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] For example, a video projector that can be connected to a computer can be used. A video projector can be more attractive because it is not limited to displaying specific content. However, such projectors are generally intended for use by adults or older children as an alternative to a television set or computer monitor, and the light level (and / or volume) output by such projectors is too high for use in putting children to sleep. In addition, there is a risk that a child approaching the projector will look directly into the concentrated, high-intensity light, or that the light will shine on the child if someone else hits the projector, so they are generally not suitable for use in rooms where children are not supervised. Such use may also cause pain or damage to the child's eyes.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to mitigate or eliminate one of the above mentioned disadvantages, or to provide an improved or alternative projector. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a projector comprising an output unit for delivering visual or audiovisual content, at least one motion or sound sensor, and a controller in communication with the output unit and the at least one sensor and configured to adjust an output level of the output unit based on a signal from the at least one sensor.

[0006] In configurations with a controller that adjusts the output level of the output unit based on signals from a motion or audio sensor, the projector can adapt to perceived changes in the surrounding environment, for example automatically lowering brightness or volume if a child close to the projector is deemed to be sleeping, and increasing brightness or volume if the child is deemed to have woken up.

[0007] The projector according to the present invention may be a projector for soothing children or used to help them fall asleep at night.

[0008] The controller may be in communication with a motion sensor that includes a gyroscope. Alternatively or additionally, the controller may be in communication with a motion sensor that includes an accelerometer. In embodiments in which the controller is in communication with a motion sensor that includes both a gyroscope and an accelerometer, the motion sensor may be an IMU.

[0009] The controller may be configured to reduce the output level based on the signal.

[0010] For example, the controller may be configured to reduce the output level to substantially zero based on the signal.

[0011] The signal may be indicative of a decreased or declining activity level of the person.

[0012] One advantage of a controller configured to reduce output levels based on a signal is that the projector may become less intrusive if the signal indicates otherwise (e.g., as discussed above, if it indicates a child is sleeping nearby).

[0013] Alternatively or additionally, a controller configured to reduce the output level based on the signal can reduce the risk of a child being distressed or even injured by the projector output. For example, the controller can reduce the output level if the signal indicates that a child has approached or obstructed the projector, or that a third party has struck the projector, directing the light in an undesirable direction.

[0014] The controller may be configured to increase the output level based on the signal.

[0015] For example, the controller may be configured to increase the output level from substantially zero (eg, when the projector is in standby) based on the signal.

[0016] The signal may be indicative of an increased or increasing activity level of the person.

[0017] One advantage of a controller configured to increase output levels based on a signal is that it can "wake up" the projector when the signal indicates that it is appropriate (e.g., a nearby child has woken up and wants the projector to play, or has stopped approaching or disrupting the projector).

[0018] The projector may, for example, be configured to begin outputting at a first level, and the controller may be configured to reduce its output to a lower, second level in response to a signal from the sensor, and then increase its output back to the first level in response to another signal from the sensor.

[0019] The controller may be further configured to modify the content delivered by the output unit as well as adjust the output level in response to the signal.

[0020] In configurations with a controller configured to vary the level of distribution along with the content being distributed, the projector's ability to adjust its operation in response to its awareness of the surrounding environment can be further enhanced.

[0021] A change to the content may include a change to the nature of the content. For example, the projector may be configured to switch from one animation to another (e.g., in addition to adjusting the brightness of the projected animation). Also, for example, the projector may be configured to switch from an animation moving at a first speed to a second, sped up or slower version of the same animation.

[0022] Modifications to the content may also include changes to the duration for which the content is displayed, for example, a projector may be configured to repeatedly play an animation or video clip for a first period (e.g., 20 minutes) and then stop playing, and may be configured to play the animation or video clip for a shorter period (e.g., 5 minutes) or a longer period (e.g., 30 minutes) in response to a signal.

[0023] A change in content may also include a change to the type of output provided by an output unit. For example, a projector may be configured to initially output both light (e.g., video or animation) and sound, but in response to a signal, change the output to only light, or only sound, or vice versa. For example, a controller may be configured to in response to a signal to switch the output of an output unit from only light to only sound, or vice versa.

[0024] The controller may be configured to classify different signals from the at least one sensor, indicative of different conditions, into different categories and to react to the different signals according to the categories assigned to the different signals.

[0025] This allows the projector to more effectively adjust to the perceived situation than if the controller were configured to treat all signals as indicating a single situation.

[0026] However, the present invention may be used with a configuration that reacts to all signals in the same way. Such a configuration is advantageous in terms of simplifying the projector (and therefore cost). Alternatively or additionally, if the controller adjusts the output level for safety reasons (e.g., to avoid eye damage from the light output), it may be beneficial for the controller to react to all signals as an indication that a child is approaching or disrupting the projector, as a "better safe than sorry" solution.

[0027] The controller may be configured to classify the signal as an indication that the person is sleeping.

[0028] The controller may be configured to reduce an output level of the output unit in response to a signal classified as indicative of a person sleeping.

[0029] A signal that a person (eg, a child) is sleeping could be, for example, the sound of snoring or a decrease in vibrations caused by a person lying still.

[0030] In configurations where the projector is able to identify when a person is asleep, it can take steps (e.g., reduce the output level and / or change the content to something less stimulating) to reduce the likelihood that the output will inadvertently wake the person.

[0031] The controller may be configured to classify the signal as an indication that the person is awake.

[0032] The controller may be configured to increase an output level of the output unit in response to a signal classified as indicative of the person being awake.

[0033] Signals that indicate a person (eg, a child) is awake may include, for example, sounds and vibrations from coughing or sneezing, sounds indicating a change in breathing rate, and / or vibrations due to increased movement levels.

[0034] In a configuration that can identify when a child is awake, the projector can take steps to more effectively engage the child (e.g., increase output levels and / or change content), thereby reducing the need for parental intervention to get the child to sleep.

[0035] The controller may be configured to classify the signal as an indication that the person is in distress.

[0036] The controller may be configured to reduce an output level of the output unit in response to a signal classified as indicating that the person is experiencing distress.

[0037] Signals that a person (e.g., a child) is in distress could include sounds or vibrations such as loud crying, persistent coughing, trying to get out of their child's bed, and / or (in older children) calling for a caregiver.

[0038] In a configuration that can identify when a child is in distress, the projector can take steps to reduce output (e.g., lower the output level or stop output entirely) that would prevent a parent from noticing the child's distress.

[0039] The controller may be configured to classify the signal as an indication that the projector is being jammed.

[0040] The controller may be configured to reduce an output level of the output unit in response to a signal classified as indicating that the projector is being jammed.

[0041] A signal that the projector is being disturbed could be, for example, a sound or vibration when something (or someone) hits the projector, or a change in the projector's orientation detected by a motion sensor.

[0042] In a configuration that can identify when the projector is obstructed, the projector can reduce the risk of accidentally shining light output from the projector into a person's eyes.

[0043] The controller may be configured to classify the signal as a false alarm.

[0044] The controller may be configured to not alter the output level of the output unit in response to a signal classified as a false alarm.

[0045] Such "false alarm" signals could be, for example, footsteps, a door opening and closing (which may indicate a parent coming into the room to check on the child, thus ensuring no change in the projector's operation) and vibrations, a pet barking, the flashing of car headlights, and other signals indicative of normal home life.

[0046] Classifying a signal as a false alarm reduces the risk that the controller will incorrectly adjust power levels (for example, if the controller receives a signal indicating a truck is passing nearby and interprets it as an indication that a child is awake, it may increase the power levels, increasing the risk of disrupting the child's sleep).

[0047] The controller may further be configured to gradually reduce the output level of the output unit (output device) according to an internal timer.

[0048] By gradually reducing the output level, the projector's output can be "faded out" as the person falls asleep, making the reduction in output less noticeable to the person and not disrupting the sleep onset process. In contrast, a sudden reduction in output level could be subconsciously detected by someone falling asleep or in the lighter stages of sleep, bringing them back to a waking state.

[0049] The gradual reduction in output level may be prompted by the controller in response to a signal (e.g., a signal indicating that a person is sleeping) or may be a separate function to adjustments made by the controller in response to signals from a motion sensor or sound sensor.

[0050] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a projector comprising an output unit for delivering visual or audiovisual content and a controller in communication with the output unit, the controller being configured to gradually reduce an output level of the output unit according to an internal timer.

[0051] As mentioned above, the gradually decreasing output level configuration allows the projector to "fade out" its output as a person falls asleep, thereby reducing the risk of the projector waking someone up.

[0052] The output level may be the brightness of the light output of the output unit.

[0053] The output level may be the volume of the audio output of the output unit.

[0054] The controller may be configured to gradually reduce both the brightness and the volume until they are substantially zero, and the brightness and the volume may reach substantially zero at different times.

[0055] The controller may be configured to reduce the brightness and the volume such that the brightness is substantially zero before the volume. Alternatively, the controller may be configured to reduce the brightness and the volume such that the volume is substantially zero before the brightness.

[0056] By reducing the brightness and volume to essentially zero at different times, the controller can achieve a more gradual overall reduction in the impact of the projector on the child compared to a configuration in which both light and sound levels are stopped at the same time. For example, a child in the early stages of sleep may notice that the sound from the projector has stopped, open their eyes, and watch a video or animation, reassuring them that they are not alone, allowing them to go back to sleep. Conversely, gradually reducing the brightness of the projector may allow the child to close their eyes and fall asleep, reassured by the sound from the projector.

[0057] The projector may be configured to transition from a powered off state to a playing state in which entertainment content is output in response to a single input from a user.

[0058] This allows parents to easily start up the projector, reducing the risk of children getting agitated while waiting for it to start (if the parent has to scroll through menus etc. before playback begins).

[0059] A single input from the user may be, for example, pressing a button, holding down a button, or double-clicking a button.

[0060] A single input from a user may be an input applied to two buttons, for example, a single input may be pressing two buttons simultaneously, pressing and holding two buttons simultaneously, or pressing one button while pressing the other button.

[0061] The use of two buttons reduces the risk of a parent accidentally putting the projector into playback mode while moving it, for example.

[0062] If the single input is an input that applies to two buttons, the projector may be configured to cycle through different entertainment content options when the button (or one of the buttons) is pressed again while in the playback state.

[0063] This allows parents to easily change the content they want the projector to output, reducing overall delays and confusion caused by projector settings.

[0064] The projector may be configured to collect health data from nearby people while in use.

[0065] The health data collected by the projector may, for example, be data regarding the person's sleep schedule and / or sleep patterns. Alternatively or additionally, data may be collected regarding, for example, how often the person sneezes and / or coughs. Such data may be determined by feedback from audio and / or motion sensors or from another sensor.

[0066] In a configuration where the projector collects data, parents can check in on their child's health (e.g., making sure their child is in bed and / or getting enough sleep while in bed) without needing a separate device such as a smartwatch.

[0067] The projector may include a data memory configured to store data collected by the projector, thereby eliminating the need to transmit the data in real-time as it is collected by the projector.

[0068] The projector may further include a wireless communication transmitter.

[0069] For example, the projector may be equipped with a Bluetooth or WiFi communication chip. This allows the projector to function as a baby monitor. The projector may be configured, for example, to transmit all sounds detected by its audio sensor for playback by a receiving device, such as a mobile phone. Alternatively, the projector (e.g., the projector's controller) may be configured to filter the sounds detected by the audio sensor to filter one or more sounds emitted by the projector itself (e.g., the audible portion of the content output by the projector and / or the noise of the projector's cooling fan). Alternatively or additionally, the projector may transmit only sounds of one or more specific categories (e.g., those classified as indicating that the child is awake). As a further example, the projector may not transmit sounds, but instead transmit more general data, such as a traffic light indicator that gives an overview of whether signals from the motion and / or audio sensors indicate that a nearby child is asleep, awake and calm, or in distress.

[0070] The projector may further include a camera.

[0071] For example, a camera and wireless transmitter may be combined to configure the projector to function as a photo- or video-enabled baby monitor. Alternatively or additionally, information from the camera may be combined with one or more signals from a motion sensor and / or audio sensor and used by the controller to determine whether to adjust the output levels.

[0072] The projector may further include an internal battery configured to power the output unit, and an internal playback memory, where the playback memory is configured to store the playback content to be output by the output unit.

[0073] This configuration allows for a wider range of projector uses, as the projector can function without being connected to a power source and without communicating with a separate storage device that contains the audio / video files for playback.

[0074] The projector may further comprise a base defining a contact surface for engaging a surface on which it is placed, and the output unit may be configured to project light at an angle between 20 and 70 degrees relative to the contact surface, such as between 30 and 60 degrees, or between 40 and 50 degrees.

[0075] The base may be planar, corresponding to the contact surface, or alternatively, the base may have a collection of protrusions, such as legs, the tips of which define the contact surface.

[0076] The controller may be configured to synchronize the audio file with a set of sound effects files, image files, and / or video files to play an audiobook accompanied by sound effects, images, and / or animations.

[0077] Thus, the projector can "read" to a child without requiring any input from the parent.

[0078] The controller may be configured to communicate with a speech synthesis unit, the speech synthesis unit configured to generate an artificial rendering of the spoken word.

[0079] For example, the voice synthesis unit may be configured to retrieve a voice ID from a voice ID memory and modify a base file according to the voice ID to synthesize a voice file, the voice file being in the form of an artificial rendering of the spoken words.

[0080] One example of generating artificial renderings of spoken words is Overdub, an AI software from Descript, Inc.'s "Lyrebird" division. Participants record short speech samples, from which the software creates a voice ID model. This model can be used in conjunction with text-to-speech software to read the desired text aloud in a "clone" of the participant's voice. For more information, see www.descript.com / overdub.

[0081] In this way, the projector can "read" to the child in a voice that resembles a voice the child recognizes (e.g., the child's caregiver's voice).

[0082] The voice synthesis unit may be located within the projector or may be external to the projector (e.g., in a mobile phone that can communicate with the projector's controller via a wired or wireless connection). Similarly, the voice ID may be stored within the projector's memory or may be stored externally, and the base file may be stored within the projector's memory or may be stored externally.

[0083] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a projector configured to generate a light output, or to generate a sound and light output, and configured to automatically modify an amount of sound and / or light output in response to feedback from one or more sensors, and to automatically gradually decrease the amount of sound and / or light output over a period determined by an internal clock.

[0084] The projector may be a stand-alone unit. Alternatively, it may be part of a larger multi-function device. In a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a mobile phone comprising a projector according to the first or second aspect of the invention. In such a mobile phone, the above mentioned functions may be provided in combination with the functions typically provided by mobile phones, thus avoiding the need for two separate devices.

[0085] It should be noted that references to children herein are not intended to be limiting, and it should be understood that the projector may be used by or designed for people of any age. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0086] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a projector according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the projector shown in FIG. 1 during use, showing an image being projected onto a child's bed. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a side view of the projector shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrating communication with a voice synthesis unit of a mobile phone. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0087] An example embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings.

[0088] 1 is a schematic diagram of a projector 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The projector 2 is provided with an output unit 4, which includes a projection section 6 including a light source and a focusing lens (not shown) for projecting still or moving images, and a speaker section 8 for outputting sound. The projector 2 is further provided with an internal battery 10 configured to supply power to the projector 2, an internal content memory 12 for storing content to be reproduced by the projector, and an internal data memory 14 for storing data collected by the projector 2, as described below.

[0089] The functions of the projector 2 are managed by a controller 20, to which an output unit 4, a battery 10, a content memory 12, and a data memory 14 are connected. During use of the projector, the controller 20 receives power from the battery 10, retrieves a data file from the memory 12 corresponding to a particular content to be output from the projector, and supplies both power and data to the output unit 4. The projection unit 6 outputs light and / or the speaker unit 8 outputs sound in accordance with the file retrieved from the memory 12. In this way, a desired content such as a video animation with sound effects is generated.

[0090] Also connected to the controller 20 are an audio sensor 22 in the form of a microphone, a motion sensor 24 in the form of an IMU with a gyroscope and an accelerometer, and a timer unit 26. The controller 20 can vary the output level of the output unit 4, i.e. the brightness of the light generated by the projection unit 6 and / or the volume of the sound generated by the speaker unit 8, according to signals from the audio sensor 22, the motion sensor 24 and / or the timer unit 26. This functionality will be explained in more detail below.

[0091] The projector 2 is also provided with a camera 30, a WiFi communication chip 32 (an example of a "wireless communication transmitter"), a USB port 34, a power button 36, a safety button 38, and a fan 40, each of which is connected to the controller 20. The controller is communicatively connected to an external device, such as a laptop computer or a mobile phone (e.g., corresponding to a linked application or website to which the projector 2 is registered), either wirelessly via the WiFi communication chip 32 or wired via the USB port. This communicative connection allows control of the projector 2, such as setting user preference options, selecting content to be played on the next action, and / or uploading new content to the content memory 12. It also allows firmware updates for the projector 2 to be installed. Furthermore, as described below, the external device can access data collected by the projector 2, such as data stored in the data memory 14.

[0092] 2 shows projector 2 in use, where projector 2 is outputting content to lull an infant residing in child's bed 50 to sleep. The outputted content is in the form of a lullaby played through speaker unit 8, which is coordinated with a cartoon video of a sheep jumping over a fence, projected by projection unit 6 onto the ceiling above child's bed 50.

[0093] The outer case 52 of the projector 2 shown in Fig. 2 is provided with a planar base 54 that defines a contact surface for placing the projector on a floor or table, and vents 56 for cooling the projector (particularly the projection unit 6) by drawing air into the case 52 with the fan 40. Also shown in Fig. 2 are an outer lens 58 and a focus knob 60 of the projection unit 6. Also shown in Fig. 2 is the power button 36, which is provided in a star shape here. At the corresponding position on the opposite side of the projector 2 from the side shown in Fig. 2, a safety button 38 is provided, as well as vents for discharging cooling air from the case 52.

[0094] Of note in this embodiment is that the projection unit 6 is configured to project light at approximately 45 degrees to the contact surface defined by the base 54 (i.e., in this case, approximately 45 degrees to the plane of the base). With this configuration, when the base 54 is placed on a horizontal surface, the light is projected at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the horizontal. This is in contrast to many projectors that are configured to project light parallel to the base (i.e., in a forward direction) or perpendicular to the base (i.e., directly above). By projecting light at such an intermediate angle, the projector 2 can be placed on one side of the child's bed 50 and project onto the ceiling above the child's bed 50. In contrast, if the light is projected at too large an angle to the base 54 and projected onto the ceiling above the child's bed 50, the projector must be placed very close to the child's bed 50, which could cause a child in the child's bed 50 to look into the projector and expose the child's eyes to the high intensity light. Conversely, if the light is projected at too small an angle to the base and onto the ceiling above the child's bed 50, the projector would have to be placed far away from the child's bed 50, which would be impractical for use in a room of average size.

[0095] Additionally, projectors 2 that cast light at such intermediate angles may be pre-set to simplify the process of keystone correction so that no manual adjustment is required. In contrast, a projector that casts light directly upwards or directly in front would not only have to be positioned to project above the child's bed, but would also require significant keystone correction (as such projectors are typically set up to project light onto a plane perpendicular to the direction the light is being projected).

[0096] The projector 2 is designed to advantageously and easily start up from a powered off state to a playing state where entertainment content is being output (rather than just content in the form of a selection menu or the like). In this embodiment, the projector 2 transitions from a powered off state to a playing state in response to a single action from a user (e.g., a parent). The parent presses and holds the safety button 38 and the power button 36 for two seconds to power up the projector 2. Upon powering up, the projector 2 begins playing the default content (in this case, the lullaby with sheep animation described above). With the projector 2 in the powered on state, a simple press of the power button 36 can be used to cycle through the available content options to change the content being output. In this case, a first press of the power button 36 selects content in the form of a second lullaby with an animated night sky scene, a further press of the power button 36 selects content in the form of birds chirping with slowly shifting abstract color patterns, and a further press of the power button selects content in the form of classical music with a kaleidoscopic display of color shapes. Successive presses of the power button 36 will repeatedly cycle through the above-mentioned options in a continuous loop.

[0097] As described above, the controller 20 is connected to the audio sensor 22 and the camera 30. The controller transfers signals received from the audio sensor 22 and the camera 30 to the WiFi communication chip, which transmits the received signals to a paired device such as a mobile phone. Thus, the projector 2 can function as a baby monitor, particularly as a video-enabled baby monitor in this embodiment. The baby monitor function allows a guardian to watch over the child with the camera 30 and hear the sounds made by the child with the audio sensor 22. In this embodiment, the controller 20 includes an integral signal filter. The integral signal filter can remove noise that is determined to be part of the content output by the projector 2 from the signal from the audio sensor 22 before the signal is sent to the WiFi communication chip 32. In this way, the guardian can hear the sounds made by the child but cannot hear the content output by the projector 2. This can avoid the risk that the content is distracting to the guardian or that the guardian cannot hear the sounds made by the child.

[0098] As described above, the controller 20 is also connected to the timer unit 26. The controller 20 gradually reduces the output level of the output unit 4 according to the timer. In particular, in this embodiment, when the projector 2 is turned on as described above, the timer unit 26 starts measuring for 20 minutes. Over the course of 20 minutes (unless interrupted as described below), the controller gradually reduces the light output from the projection unit 6 and the output volume from the speaker unit 8 to zero (i.e., complete darkness and complete silence). The light and volume are gradually reduced in a linear path (not in terms of absolute output, but in terms of user perception), but at this time, the controller 20 reduces the output brightness from the projection unit 6 faster than the reduction in the output volume from the speaker unit 8. Thus, the light output becomes zero after 18 minutes, whereas the sound output becomes zero after 20 minutes.

[0099] After the 20 minutes have passed, projector 2 enters a standby state in which neither projection unit 6 nor speaker unit 8 are operating, but the controller continues to receive power from battery 10 and continues to receive signals from audio sensor 22, motion sensor 24, and camera 30. Thus, projector 2 continues to operate as a video-enabled baby monitor, and is capable of varying the output level of output unit 4 based on these signals, as described above.

[0100] The controller 20 of the projector 2 according to this embodiment can adjust the output level of the output unit 4 in different ways depending on the nature of the signals received. In particular, the controller 20 classifies the signals received from the audio sensor 22, the motion sensor 24 and the camera 30 into (a) an indication that a person (i.e. a child in the child's bed 50) is sleeping, (b) an indication that a person is awake, (c) an indication that a person is in distress, (d) an indication that the projector 2 is being disturbed, and (e) a false alarm.

[0101] In this embodiment, the controller 20 of the projector 2 adjusts both the output levels (i.e., brightness and volume) of the output unit 4 upon receiving a signal from the audio sensor 22, the motion sensor 24, and / or the camera 30 classified as indicating that the child is awake. Such a signal could be the audio sensor 22 detecting a cough or sneeze, and / or the camera 30 detecting that the child has sat down or stood up. In response to the signal, the controller 20 resumes playback and increases the output levels of the projection unit 6 and the speaker unit 8.

[0102] In this case, the controller 20 resumes playback (i.e., adjusts the output level upward from zero) to put the child back to sleep, but in this embodiment does not resume playback at the same brightness or volume as when the projector 2 was first started. The brightness and volume of the content played when the projector 2 was first started were output at a first brightness and a first volume, while the brightness and volume of the content that the controller 20 resumes playing after receiving a signal indicating that the child is awake are output at a second brightness and a second volume. Specifically, for example, the second volume is 75% of the first volume, and the second brightness is 50% of the first brightness. In this way, the projector 2 resumes playback to put the child back to sleep, but at a lower output level to reduce the risk that the content output by the projector 2 stimulates the child to a higher state of wakefulness rather than putting him back to sleep.

[0103] Furthermore, in this case, the controller changes the content to be output as well as the output level. Specifically, if the controller previously played content in a loop for 20 minutes while gradually decreasing the output level, after the controller receives a signal indicating that the child is awake and restarts, it will again play content in a loop for 10 minutes while gradually decreasing the output level.

[0104] The controller 20 also adjusts both output levels based on a signal from the audio sensor 22, the motion sensor 24, and / or the camera 30 indicating that the child is asleep. Such a signal could be, for example, the audio sensor 22 detecting a noise recognized as snoring, or the camera noting minimal movement of the child for a predefined period of time. Upon receiving the signal, the controller 20 adjusts both the brightness of the projection unit 6 and the volume of the speaker unit 8 downwards to zero. Specifically, the controller 20 gradually adjusts these outputs over, for example, one minute (timed, for example, by the timer unit 26). Thus, the risk of waking up the child due to the content can be reduced. After the output level reaches zero, the projector 2 enters standby mode.

[0105] Controller 20 also adjusts both output levels in response to a signal indicating that the child is in distress, such as audio sensor 22 detecting a child's crying above normal tone and / or volume that does not require parental intervention, or motion sensor 24 detecting vibrations caused by the child's persistent kicking of his / her legs. Upon receiving such a signal, controller 20 instantly reduces both output levels to zero. This increases the likelihood that a parent will see or hear (or indeed notice that playback has suddenly stopped) that the child is in distress, either directly or through the baby monitor function of projector 2.

[0106] Additionally, the controller 20 adjusts both the brightness and volume if it receives a signal classified as indicating that the projector 2 has been disturbed, e.g., knocked over by a parent or picked up by a child. Such a signal could be an impact or a change in orientation as detected by the motion sensor 24. In response, the controller 20 instantly reduces both output levels to zero, thus avoiding the risk of the child being dazzled or injured by the light output from the projection unit 6. Additionally, the sudden reduction in volume (which can be heard directly or via the baby monitor function of the projector) can alert the parent that the projector 2 has been disturbed.

[0107] In this particular embodiment, after the controller 20 adjusts the output level in response to a signal indicating that the child is asleep, the projector 2 goes into a standby mode (still functioning as a baby monitor, reactivating if the controller 20 receives a signal indicating that the child has woken up again). However, if the controller 20 adjusts the output level in response to a signal indicating that the child is in distress or a signal indicating that the projector has been disturbed, the projector 2 goes into a safety mode and does not resume playback (but still functions as a baby monitor), regardless of other signals the controller 20 subsequently receives from the audio sensor 22, the motion sensor 24, and the camera 30. To restart the projector 2 from the safety mode, the projector 2 must be powered off and back on. This reduces the risk of the projector 2 restarting due to a signal that is erroneously classified as indicating that the child is asleep, when the child is still in distress or the projector 2 is not properly installed.

[0108] As discussed above, the controller 20 classifies signals as false alarms, such as the motion sensor 24 detecting vibrations from a truck passing outside or an adult crossing the room to check on a child, the audio sensor 22 detecting conversation in an adjacent room, or the camera 30 detecting a pet moving. In this embodiment, the controller 20 does not adjust output levels in response to signals classified as false alarms. In fact, the controller 20 does not make any changes in response to false alarm signals.

[0109] The projector 2 can also collect health data about the child. More specifically, the projector 2 can be set to record the times when the child is thought to be asleep and store that information in the data memory 14. A parent can then access that information, for example, via the USB port 34 or the WiFi communication chip 32, to find out information such as how long it typically takes the child to fall asleep and how often they wake up during the night.

[0110] In addition to the content described above, the projector 2 can also "read a book" to the child. The controller 20 takes the audio file of the book being read and a separate set of files, such as image files, video files, and / or sound effect files, and combines them together. This results in an output that combines the audio file of the book being read with one or more sound effects, illustrations, or animated illustrations that are synchronized with the events described in the audio file. For example, if the audio file is the story of Peter Pan, the controller 20 may synchronize its playback with a set of illustrations of key scenes from the book, and sound effects such as sprinkling fairy dust and clashing swords.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, the controller 20 can communicate with a voice synthesis unit 70 configured in a mobile phone 72 via the WiFi communication chip 32 (or alternatively, via the USB port 34). The mobile phone 72 also has a voice ID memory 74 and a base file memory 76. The mobile phone 72 stores a voice ID, which is generated using a sample of the voice of a particular speaker, for example, the child's guardian and / or a celebrity narrator. The voice synthesis unit retrieves the corresponding voice ID from the voice ID memory 74, retrieves the corresponding base file from the base file memory 76 containing the words of the story to be "read", and modifies the base file to generate an audio file in which the words are read by an artificial copy of the voice of the corresponding person. The generated audio file is provided to the controller 20 of the projector 2 and output in combination with image, video, and / or audio effects as described above. For example, the voice synthesis unit retrieves the story of Peter Pan from the base file memory 76, retrieves the voice ID of the child's mother, and modifies the base file to artificially render an audio file of the mother "reading" the story of Peter Pan. The sound files thus generated are sent to the controller 20 and synchronized with the sound effects and illustrations.

[0112] Although the present invention has been described and illustrated with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is also suitable for many different variations not specifically shown herein. As an example, in another embodiment of the present invention, the voice synthesis unit and / or the voice ID memory and / or the base file memory may be provided in the projector itself. Alternatively or additionally, the projector may be a subassembly included in a mobile phone, rather than a stand-alone unit as shown in the above embodiment. Also, while in the above embodiment the timer unit is described as being separate from the controller, the timer may be provided integrally with the controller.

[0113] As another example, other embodiments of the invention may ramp down the projector's power level in different ways than described above. As one example, the controller may ramp down the power level over a 15 minute period, with the power level remaining constant for the first 5 minutes and then exponentially ramping down over the remaining 10 minutes.

[0114] Where integers or elements having known, obvious, or foreseeable equivalents are mentioned in the above description, such equivalents are incorporated herein as if set forth individually. Reference should be made to the claims to determine the scope of the invention, which should be interpreted to encompass such equivalents. It should also be understood that any integers or features of the invention described as preferred, advantageous, convenient, etc. are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. It should also be understood that any such integers or features may be beneficial in some embodiments of the invention, while being undesirable in other embodiments, and therefore may not be present in other embodiments.

Claims

1. an output unit for delivering visual or audiovisual content; at least one motion or audio sensor; a controller in communication with the output unit and the at least one sensor and configured to adjust an output level of the output unit based on a signal from the at least one sensor; A projector comprising: the controller is configured to communicate with a speech synthesis unit; the speech synthesis unit is configured to generate an artificial rendering of a spoken word; The voice synthesis unit may be built into the projector or may be provided at a location remote from the projector. A projector characterized by:

2. the controller is configured to reduce the output level based on the signal.

2. The projector according to claim 1, wherein:

3. the controller is configured to increase the output level based on the signal.

2. The projector according to claim 1, wherein:

4. the controller is further configured to modify the visual or audiovisual content delivered by the output unit and adjust the output level in response to the signal.

2. The projector according to claim 1, wherein:

5. the controller is configured to classify different signals from the at least one sensor, indicative of different conditions, into different categories and to react to the different signals according to the categories assigned to the different signals.

2. The projector according to claim 1, wherein:

6. the controller is configured to classify the signal as indicative of the person sleeping.

6. The projector according to claim 5, wherein:

7. The controller is configured to classify the signal as indicative of the person being awake.

6. The projector according to claim 5, wherein:

8. the controller is configured to classify the signal as indicative of the person being in distress.

6. The projector according to claim 5, wherein:

9. the controller is configured to classify the signal as an indication that the projector is being disturbed; 6. The projector according to claim 5, wherein:

10. the controller is configured to classify the signal as a false alarm.

6. The projector according to claim 5, wherein:

11. The controller is further configured to gradually decrease the output level of the output unit according to an internal timer.

2. The projector according to claim 1, wherein:

12. an output unit for delivering visual or audiovisual content; a controller in communication with the output unit; Equipped with the controller is configured to gradually decrease the output level of the output unit according to an internal timer; A projector characterized by:

13. the output level comprises the brightness of the light output of the output unit; 13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

14. the output level comprises the volume of the audio output of the output unit; 13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

15. The output level comprises brightness of the optical output and volume of the audio output of the output unit; the controller is configured to gradually decrease both the brightness and the volume until they reach substantially zero, the brightness and the volume reaching substantially zero at different times; 13. The projector according to claim 11 or 12.

16. the projector is configured to transition from a power-off state to a playback state in which entertainment content is output in response to a single input from a user; 13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

17. wherein the projector is configured to collect health data from nearby people during use.

13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

18. The projector further comprises a wireless communication transmitter.

13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

19. The projector further comprises a camera.

13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

20. The projector includes: an internal battery configured to power the output unit; Built-in playback memory, Furthermore, The built-in playback memory is configured to store playback content to be output by the output unit; 13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

21. the projector further comprising a base defining a contact surface for engaging a surface on which the projector is placed; the output unit is configured to project light at an angle of 30 to 60 degrees relative to the contact surface; 13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

22. the controller is configured to synchronize the audio file with a set of sound effect files, image files, and / or video files and play an audiobook accompanied by sound effects, images, and / or animations; 13. The projector according to claim 1 or 12.

23. A mobile phone equipped with the projector according to claim 1 or 12.

Images