Systems and methods for display occlusion detection

Abstract

The present invention describes a system, apparatus, and method for display docking detection. A display device having a display screen can be disposed within a housing, such as an armrest of a vehicle. The housing can have one or more objects disposed within the interior of the housing such that the one or more objects interact with the display screen of the display device when the display device is inserted into and / or removed from the housing. Interaction of the one or more objects with the display screen when the display device is inserted into the housing causes the display device to automatically power off the display screen.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly to detection of occlusion of a display device. [Background technology]

[0002] The following description includes information useful in understanding the present invention. No admission is made that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] Many aircraft and other vehicles have multiple display devices positioned throughout the cabin or vehicle. These display devices may be mounted on the ceiling, walls, overhead compartments, and / or seatbacks. Some display devices may also be located in the armrests of vehicle seats.

[0004] For display devices stored in an armrest and accessible to passengers, the display device often rotates 90 degrees about a horizontal axis when moving from a viewing position to a stowed position under the armrest. For example, the display device may be coupled to a pivot arm that can be moved to pivot the display device from the viewing position to the stowed position, e.g., by folding the display device into the seat arm at a 90-degree angle. In such a situation, the display device can have one or more sensors to detect the rotation of the display device and can detect when the display device is in the stowed position. Using the sensor data, the device can be configured to automatically power off when in the stowed position.

[0005] Unfortunately, some display devices stored within armrests are removed vertically and therefore do not rotate about a horizontal axis when the device is moved from the stowed position and extended from the armrest. In such situations, using one or more sensors to detect the rotation of the display device will not indicate that the display device is in the stowed position because the relative position of the display device does not rotate (i.e., the display screen maintains the same orientation). The requirement to add sensor electronics to existing display devices, seats, or other aircraft cabin structures is undesirable, costly, and would require additional recertification testing, etc.

[0006] Therefore, a need remains for a system and method for detecting the docking of a display device. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The present subject matter provides devices, systems, and methods for display denial detection, particularly for automatically powering off a display device when a simulated touch is used to determine that the device has been denied. As used herein, the term "display device" refers to a unit having a display screen used to display media / content to a user. Exemplary display devices include field-replaceable storage devices having a display screen, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,015,776. In some embodiments, the display device comprises a portable computing device having its own processor and memory, while in other embodiments, the display device comprises a display screen communicatively coupled to a computing device used to present content on the display screen.

[0008] All publications identified herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. In the event that a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference contradicts or contradicts the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein shall apply and the definition of that term in the reference shall not apply.

[0009] A preferred display screen comprises a touchscreen, meaning that the display screen functions as both an input and output device and can receive input from a user's finger, stylus, or other. Contemplated touchscreens can be based on a variety of technologies that utilize different methods for sensing input from a user. Such technologies include, for example, resistive touchscreens, capacitive touchscreens (including surface capacitance and projected capacitance), infrared touchscreens, optical imaging touchscreens, and the like.

[0010] A contemplated system for detecting stowage of a display device includes a housing configured to receive the display device. In some embodiments, the housing can be positioned as part of or below an armrest of a seat. Preferably, the housing includes at least one object disposed within an interior of the housing such that when the display device is disposed (i.e., stowed or housed) within the housing, the at least one object is positioned adjacent to a display screen of the display device.

[0011] It is particularly preferred that the at least one object be selected and positioned within the housing such that the object(s) are recognized as inputs by the display device when the display device is powered on. In other words, when the display device is inserted into (or removed from) the housing, the at least one object interacts with the display screen (touch screen) of the display device in a particular way. This may include, for example, a particular path of interaction with the display screen, such as from the bottom to the top of the display screen.

[0012] Contemplated objects include, for example, a stylus tip or other non-abrasive soft-touch object that can contact or otherwise interact with the touchscreen display, and a metal object that can break into the capacitive field of the touchscreen display to simulate a fingertip. Of course, any suitable commercially available object that can interact with the display screen can be used, preferably one that does not increase wear on the display screen.

[0013] The display device may further include software that automatically powers off the display screen of the display device when the display device detects at least one object moving / moving from a first position to a second position relative to the display screen. As described above, the movement may be the at least one object passing through the front edge of the touchscreen display when the display device is stored and set at the rear edge of the touchscreen display when fully stored. When the display device is removed from storage, the at least one object moves from the rear edge to the front edge of the touchscreen display, which can be detected. To avoid accidentally powering off the display screen during use, it is preferable that the at least one object be attached to a location / position that will contact the touchscreen display, such as a combination of locations that are least likely to be touched by a user at the same time, for example, the right and left edges.

[0014] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top view of a row of seats in a vehicle having three seats. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a top view of the housing in a closed position with a display device housed therein. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a top view of the housing in an open position with a display device housed therein. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C is a front view of a housing with a display device disposed outside the housing. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D is a side view of the display device and housing of FIG. 2C. [Figure 2E] FIG. 2E is a front view of the display device and housing of FIG. 2C, with the display device partially inserted into the housing. [Figure 2F] FIG. 2F is a front view of the display device and housing of FIG. 2C, with the display device partially inserted into the housing. [Figure 2G] FIG. 2G is a front view of the display device and housing of FIG. 2C with the display device fully inserted into the housing. [Figure 2H] FIG. 2H is a front view of the display device of FIG. 2C illustrating movement of an object from a first position to a second position. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a front view of another embodiment of a housing having a display device disposed on the exterior of the housing. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a side view of the display device and housing of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a flow chart of one embodiment of a method for detecting storage of a display device in a vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Throughout the following description, numerous references are made to servers, services, interfaces, portals, platforms, or other systems formed from computing devices. It should be understood that the use of such terms is intended to represent one or more computing devices having at least one processor configured to execute software instructions stored on a computer-readable, tangible, non-transitory medium. For example, a server may include one or more computers operating as a web server, database server, or other type of computer server in a manner that performs the described roles, responsibilities, or functions. It should be understood that the inventive subject matter described herein, preferably through a combination of hardware and software, provides a means for detecting the storage of a display device using simulated touch on a touchscreen display. The inventive subject matter can be used to automatically power down the display screen upon storage, reducing the power used by the display device and reducing the heat generated by the display device when stored in an unventilated structure.

[0017] The following description provides many exemplary embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, it is understood that the inventive subject matter includes all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment consists of elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment consists of elements B and D, it is understood that the inventive subject matter also includes any other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates multiple seats 100A, 100B, and 100C arranged in a row in an aircraft or other vehicle. As used herein, the term "vehicle" is defined to include aircraft, boats, buses, automobiles, trains, and other forms of transportation capable of carrying passengers from one location to another. Each of seats 100A, 100B, and 100C includes a seat back and one or more armrests. An armrest 110 is located on one side of seat 100A, and a second armrest 112 is located between seats 100A and 100B. A third armrest 114 is located between seats 100B and 100C. A fourth armrest 116 is located on the opposite side of seat 100C. While adjacent seats are shown sharing at least one armrest, it is contemplated that each seat may have its own independent armrest.

[0019] As shown, armrest 112 comprises a housing configured to store display device 120, armrest 114 comprises a housing configured to store display device 122, and armrest 116 comprises a housing configured to store display device 124. Display devices 120, 122, 124 are shown in dashed lines because they are disposed below the armrests along with their housings. It is contemplated that one or more of display devices 120, 122, 124 may be pulled vertically therefrom (e.g., up and down) and inserted vertically into the housing of the respective armrest in which it is housed.

[0020] 2A-2G show a system 200 for detecting the placement of a display device 220. The display device 220 preferably comprises a display screen 222, more preferably a touchscreen display as described above.

[0021] System 200 comprises a housing 202 configured to receive and store a display device 220 vertically, such that the display device 220 is pushed downward into the housing 202 for storage. Figure 2A illustrates the housing 202 in a closed configuration with an armrest on top, while Figure 2B illustrates the housing 202 in an open configuration (such that the display device 220 is accessible) with the armrest 204 rotated to form an opening for receiving or inserting the display device 220 into the housing 202. Thus, the housing 202 can be positioned within or below the armrest 204 of a seat.

[0022] As shown, the display device 220 is preferably attached to and supported within the housing 202 by an arm 230 .

[0023] Housing 202 includes at least one object (here, first object 240) that is disposed within housing 202 such that first object 240 is adjacent to display screen 222 of display device 220 when display device 220 is disposed within housing 202. While Figures 2A-2B show first object 240 not contacting display screen 222, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, first object 240 may be sized to be disposed within housing 202 such that first object 240 contacts display screen 222.

[0024] Contemplated objects include, for example, a stylus tip or other non-abrasive soft-touch object that can contact or otherwise interact with the touchscreen display, as well as a metal object that can disrupt the capacitive field of the touchscreen display to simulate a fingertip. Alternatively, one or more wheels made of a soft material held in place by a spring mechanism could be used. Such a deformation could better navigate the thick perimeter of the display screen 222 and reduce the likelihood of scratching the display cover lens of the screen 222. Of course, any commercially suitable object that can interact with the display screen 222 could be used, preferably one that does not add additional wear to the display screen 222.

[0025] However, it is preferable that the first object 240 not directly contact the display screen 222 so as to prevent wear on the display screen 222 over time that may occur due to contact with the first object 240. Specifically, it is preferable that the first object 240 not directly contact the display screen 222, but rather simulates a fingertip touch that is recognized as input by the display screen 220 when the display screen 222 is powered on.

[0026] The display device 220 preferably includes software that automatically powers off the display screen 222 and / or puts the display device 220 into a low-power sleep state when the display device 220 detects a first object 240 moving from a first position relative to the display screen 222 to a second position relative to the display screen 222. Alternatively, the software may be programmed to automatically power off the display screen 222 and / or put the display device 220 into a low-power sleep state when the first object 240 is detected at the trailing edge in the fully stowed position for a minimum predetermined time. To help avoid accidental stowage detection due to valid user touch, a full-screen swipe gesture observed by the display device 220 or its sensors during insertion of the display device 220 into the stowed position can be used to gate the stowage detection function at the trailing edge of the display screen 222. The software can be programmed to continue monitoring a specific touch location and turn on or wake the display screen 222 from a low-power sleep state when the touch coordinates begin to change, indicating the display device 220 is being removed from stowage.

[0027] In other words, when the display device 220 is inserted into (or removed from) the housing 202, the first object 240 moves along at least a portion of the display screen 222 from a first position to a second position relative to the display screen 222. This is shown in Figures 2E-2G. The display device 220 can be programmed, via software stored in the memory of the display device 220, to automatically power off the display screen 222 when the display device 220 detects the first object 240 moving in a particular pattern or line of interaction along the display screen 222 from a first position relative to the display screen 222.

[0028] It is contemplated that first object 240 is fixed in position (i.e., stationary) relative to housing 202 such that first object 240 does not move where first object 240 is connected to housing 202. It is further contemplated that the free end of first object 240 may move, particularly if first object 240 is a soft-touch object that directly contacts display screen 222 and may bend or otherwise deflect when first object 240 contacts display screen 222.

[0029] In some embodiments, the display device 220 can be further configured via software to automatically power on the display screen 222 when the display device 220 detects a first object 240 moving in a particular pattern or line of interaction from a second position to a first position relative to the display screen 222.

[0030] 2E-2G illustrate how the display device 220 can be inserted vertically (e.g., downward along the y-axis) into the housing 202. As the display device 220 is inserted into the housing 202, the first object 240 moves from a first position relative to the display screen 222 (shown in FIG. 2E) to a second position relative to the display screen 222 (shown in FIG. 2G). FIG. 2F illustrates an intermediate position of the first object 240 relative to the display screen 222. FIG. 2G illustrates the first object 240 in the second position and the display device 220 housed within the housing 202.

[0031] 2H , the first location is vertically below the second location, and the first object 240 interacts with the display screen 222 along a vertical path from the first location to the second location. In some embodiments, the first location constitutes a first edge of the display screen 222, and the second location constitutes an opposing second edge of the display screen 222.

[0032] 3A-3B illustrate another embodiment of a system 300 for detecting the placement of a display device 320. The display device 320 preferably comprises a display screen 322, more preferably a touchscreen display as described above.

[0033] The system 300 includes a housing 302 configured to receive and house a display device 320. Figure 3B shows the housing 302 in an open configuration (to provide access to the display device 220) with an armrest 304 rotated to form an opening for removing or inserting the display device 320. It is contemplated that the armrest 304 is hingedly coupled to the housing 302. As shown, the display device 320 is preferably attached to and supported within the housing 302 by an arm 330.

[0034] The housing 302 is comprised of a first object 340 and a second object 342, which are both positioned within the housing 302 such that the first object 340 and the second object 342 are adjacent to the display screen 322 when the display device 320 is placed within the housing 302. Contemplated objects include, for example, a stylus tip or other non-abrasive soft-touch object that can touch or otherwise interact with the touchscreen display, as well as a metal object that can interrupt the capacitive field of the touchscreen display to simulate a fingertip. Of course, any commercially suitable object that can interact with the display screen 322 may be used, but preferably one that does not increase wear on the display screen 322 is used.

[0035] However, to prevent possible wear on the display screen 322 over time, it is preferred that the first object 340 and the second object 342 not directly contact the display screen 322. Specifically, the first object 340 and the second object 342 each preferably simulate a fingertip touch and are recognized by the display screen 320 as input when the display screen 322 is powered on.

[0036] First object 340 and second object 342 may be positioned at different vertical heights (i.e., along the y-axis) within the housing. Of course, they may also be positioned at the same vertical height. Furthermore, it is contemplated that first object 340 and second object 342 may be positioned at different horizontal positions (i.e., along the x-axis), as shown in FIG. 3A, or may be positioned at the same horizontal position but at different heights.

[0037] The display device 320 preferably includes software that automatically powers off the display screen 322 when the display device 320 detects (i) a first object 340 moving from a first position to a second position relative to the display screen 322, and (ii) a second object 342 moving from a third position to a fourth position relative to the display screen 322.

[0038] In other words, when the display device 320 is inserted into (or removed from) the housing 302, the first object 340 and the second object 342 each move along at least a portion of the display screen 322. The display device 320 can be programmed, via software stored in the memory of the display device 320, to automatically power off the display screen 322 when the display device 320 detects the first object 340 moving along the display screen 322 in a particular pattern or line of interaction relative to the display screen 322 from a first position to a second position, or the second object 342 moving along the display screen 322 in a particular pattern or line of interaction relative to the display screen 322 from a third position to a fourth position.

[0039] It is contemplated that first object 340 and second object 342 may be fixed in position relative to housing 302 such that they do not move where each is connected to housing 302. It is further contemplated that the free ends of each of first object 340 and second object 342 may move.

[0040] In some embodiments, the display device 320 may be further configured via software to automatically power on the display screen 322 upon detecting (i) the display device 320 detecting a first object 340 moving in a particular pattern or line of interaction from a second position to a first position relative to the display screen 322, or (ii) a second object 342 moving from a fourth position to a third position relative to the display screen 322.

[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a method 400 for detecting storage of a display device in a vehicle.

[0042] At step 410, a display device having a touchscreen display is provided. Preferably, the display device is configured to be stored vertically within a housing having at least one object coupled to or affixed to the housing.

[0043] The display device is configured to detect one or more inputs via the touchscreen display using software loaded on the display device. In this manner, the touchscreen display can detect when a finger or other object interacts with or contacts the touchscreen display.

[0044] In step 420, the display device detects a first object interacting with the touchscreen display.

[0045] In step 430, the touchscreen display may be automatically powered off if a first object moves along or interacts with the touchscreen display in a first pattern. Such interaction may be the first object's direct contact with the touchscreen display or an interaction or interference with the capacitive field of the touchscreen display. In some embodiments, the first pattern consists of a vertical line from a first position relative to the touchscreen display to a second position relative to the touchscreen display. Preferably, the vertical line is at or near the edge of the screen where a user is unlikely to perform such a gesture.

[0046] It is contemplated that the first object is in a second position relative to the touchscreen display when the display device is retracted within the housing, and in certain embodiments, the first position is vertically below the second position.

[0047] It is further contemplated that the first location comprises a first edge of the touchscreen display and the second location comprises an opposing second edge of the touchscreen display.

[0048] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that if a first object moves along or interacts with the touchscreen display in a first pattern and a second object moves along or interacts with the touchscreen display in a second pattern, the touchscreen display may automatically power off. Similar to the first object, a second object moving along or otherwise interacting with the touchscreen display may be detected.

[0049] In such an embodiment, it is contemplated that the first pattern comprises a first object moving from a first position to a second position relative to the touch screen display, and the second pattern comprises a second object moving from a third position to a fourth position relative to the touch screen display.

[0050] The first pattern may also comprise a vertical line from a first position relative to the touchscreen display to a second position relative to the touchscreen display, and the first object may be in the second position relative to the touchscreen display when the display device is stowed.

[0051] As mentioned above, the first object may comprise a stylus tip or other object capable of serving as input to a touchscreen display. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the first object may comprise a metallic object capable of interacting with or interfering with the capacitive field of a touchscreen display.

[0052] In a further embodiment, it is contemplated that the touchscreen display may be automatically powered on when the first object moves along the touchscreen display in the second pattern.

[0053] As used herein, terms such as "component," "module," and "system" refer to computer-related entities, hardware, firmware, software, a combination of software and hardware, or the execution of software. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to, a procedure running on a processor, a processor, an object, a thread of execution, a program, and / or a computer. For example, both an application running on a computing device and the computing device may be a component. One or more components may reside within a processor and / or thread of execution. A component may be localized within one computer. A component may be distributed among two or more computers. Furthermore, components may be implemented by various computer-readable media having various data structures stored thereon. For example, components may communicate through local and / or remote processing pursuant to signals comprising one or more data packets (e.g., data transmitted over a network such as the Internet to another system, data and / or signals from one component interacting with another component in a local system and a distributed system).

[0054] The illustrative logical blocks, configurations, modules, circuits, means, logic, and algorithmic operations described herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of electronic hardware and computer software. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, algorithms, steps, and / or operations have been generally described in terms of their functional aspects. Whether a function is implemented as hardware or software depends on the particular application or design constraints imposed on the system.

[0055] The inventive subject matter discussed herein may generally be implemented by a display device or other computing device including a processor, memory, and other computing components disposed therein. Those skilled in the art will understand that the inventive subject matter discussed herein may be implemented in connection with and / or in combination with other program modules and / or a combination of hardware and software, in association with computer-executable software (e.g., computer-executable commands and / or other program modules) that may be executed on a display device or one or more computers. Generally, software described herein may include one or more routines, programs, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types.

[0056] Display devices typically include one or more computer-readable media. Computer-accessible media may be computer-readable media regardless of their type, including volatile and nonvolatile media, transient and non-transitory media, and mobile and non-transitory media. By way of non-limiting example, computer-readable media may include both computer-readable storage media and computer-readable transmission media. Computer-readable storage media include volatile and nonvolatile media, transient and non-transitory media, and mobile and non-transitory media implemented in a given method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory and other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital video disks (DVDs) and other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage and other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be accessed by a computer or used to store desired information.

[0057] An exemplary environment for implementing various aspects of the present disclosure includes a computing device (such as a display device) including a processing device, a system memory, and a system bus. The system bus connects system components, including but not limited to the system memory, to the processing device. The processing device may be any of a variety of commercially available processors. The processing device may also employ a multi-processor architecture, such as a dual processor.

[0058] The system bus may be any one of several types of bus structures, which may additionally be interconnected to a memory bus, a peripheral device bus, and a local bus using any one of a variety of commercially available bus architectures. The system memory includes read-only memory (ROM) and random-access memory (RAM). The basic input / output system (BIOS) is stored in non-volatile memory, including ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, etc., and contains basic routines that help transfer information between components within the computer, such as during start-up. The RAM may also include high-speed RAM, including static RAM for caching data.

[0059] The display device may also include an internal hard disk drive (HDD) (e.g., EIDE, SATA). The hard disk drive may be connected to the system bus by a hard disk drive interface. Interfaces for implementing external drives include Universal Serial Bus (USB) and / or IEEE 1394 interface technologies.

[0060] The drive and its associated computer-readable medium provide non-volatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executable instructions, etc. In the case of a display device, the drive and medium accommodate storing predetermined data in a suitable digital format. While the description of computer-readable medium includes mobile optical media such as HDDs, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of computer-readable media, such as ZIP drives, magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, cartridges, etc., may also be used in the exemplary operating environment, and further that predetermined media may include computer-executable instructions for performing the methods of the present disclosure.

[0061] A number of program modules may be stored in the drives and RAM, including an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. All or portions of the operating system, applications, modules, and / or data may also be cached in RAM. It will be appreciated that the present disclosure may be implemented with any commercially available operating system or combination of operating systems.

[0062] A user may input instructions and information into the display device through a touchscreen display or one or more wired or wireless input devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, or other pointing device. Other input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, an IR remote control, a joystick, a game pad, etc. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing device through an input device interface connected to the system bus, but may also be connected by other interfaces including a parallel port, an IEEE 1394 serial port, a game port, a USB port, an IR interface, etc.

[0063] The display screen may be connected to the system bus via an interface such as a video adapter.

[0064] The display device may operate in a networked environment by using logical connections to one or more remote servers, including remote servers, via wired and / or wireless communications. The remote servers may be workstations, computing device computers, routers, personal computers, portable computers, microprocessor-based entertainment devices, peer devices, or other common network nodes and generally include multiple components or all of the components described with respect to the display device. The logical connections may include wired / wireless connections to a local area network (LAN) and / or larger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN).

[0065] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled to" is intended to include both direct coupling (where the two elements coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (where at least one additional element is disposed between the two elements). Thus, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used interchangeably.

[0066] In some embodiments, numerical values ​​expressing properties such as amounts and concentrations of ingredients, reaction conditions, and the like, used to describe and claim particular embodiments of the invention are understood to be modified in some cases by the term "about." Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values ​​set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values ​​set forth in some embodiments of the invention can contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0067] Unless the context dictates to the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be construed as inclusive of their endpoints, and open-ended ranges should be construed as including only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values ​​should be considered to include intermediate values ​​unless the context dictates to the contrary.

[0068] As used throughout this specification and the claims that follow, the meaning of "a" includes plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on," unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0069] The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of individually referencing each individual value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value within a range is incorporated herein as if it were individually set forth herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Any examples provided herein with respect to specific embodiments, or the use of exemplary language (e.g., "such as"), are intended merely to better illustrate the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention as recited in other claims. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0070] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referenced and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group may be included in or deleted from a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. When such inclusions or deletions are made, the specification shall be deemed to include all groups modified to satisfy the description of a Markush group used in the appended claims.

[0071] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications beyond those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. Accordingly, the present subject matter is not to be limited except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprise" and "include" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that a referenced element, component, or step may be present, utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps not expressly referenced. When a claim herein refers to at least one selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, ... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, and not A+N, B+N, etc.

Claims

1. 1. A system for detecting the storage of a display device, comprising: The system comprises: a housing configured to receive a display device, the housing comprising at least one object disposed within the housing and configured to be adjacent to a display screen of the display device when the display device is disposed within the housing; the at least one object is sized and dimensioned to be recognized as an input by the display device when the display device is powered on; the display device comprising software that automatically powers off the display screen when the display device detects the at least one object moving from a first position relative to the display screen to a second position relative to the display screen.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one object is in the second position relative to the display screen when the display device is stored within the housing.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one object comprises a stylus tip.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one object comprises a metal object.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first location is vertically below the second location.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the housing is configured to receive the display device vertically such that the display device is pressed downwardly into the housing.

7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the at least one object interacts with the display screen along a vertical path from the first location to the second location.

8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the first location comprises a first edge of the display screen and the second location comprises an opposing second edge of the display screen.

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the display screen comprises a touchscreen display.

10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one object is stationary within a housing.

11. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the software is further configured to automatically power on the display screen when the display device detects the at least one object moving from the second position to the first position relative to the display screen.

12. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one object comprises a first object and a second object disposed at different heights within the housing.

13. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the software automatically powers off the display screen when the display device detects (i) the first object moving from the first position relative to the display screen to the second position relative to the display screen, and (ii) the second object moving from the third position relative to the display screen to the fourth position relative to the display screen.

14. 1. A device for housing a display device, comprising: The device comprises: a housing configured to receive and house a display device; the housing includes a first object disposed within the housing such that the first object is adjacent to a display screen of the display device when the display device is disposed within the housing; The device, wherein the first object is sized and dimensioned to be recognized as an input by the display device when the display device is powered on.

15. The device of claim 14 , wherein the housing is disposed within an armrest of a seat.

16. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the first object comprises a stylus tip.

17. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the first object comprises a metal object.

18. 15. The device of claim 14, wherein the housing includes an opening configured to receive the display device such that the display device is pressed downwardly into the housing through the opening.

19. 20. The device of claim 18, wherein the first object interacts with the display screen along a vertical path when the display device is received within the housing.

20. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the first object is stationary within the housing.

21. The device of claim 14 , wherein the display screen comprises a touchscreen display.

22. further comprising a second object disposed within the housing; 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first object and the second object are disposed within the housing at different vertical heights.

23. 1. A method for detecting storage of a display device in a vehicle, comprising: The method comprises: providing a display device having a touch screen display, the display device configured to be contained within a housing, an interior of the housing comprising a first object coupled to the housing; detecting the first object interacting with the touch screen display; and automatically powering off the touch screen display when the first object moves in a first pattern along the touch screen display.

24. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first pattern comprises a vertical line from a first location relative to the touch screen display to a second location relative to the touch screen display.

25. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the first object is in a second position relative to the touchscreen display when the display device is housed within a housing.

26. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the first location is vertically below the second location.

27. the first position comprises a first end of the touch screen display; 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the second location comprises an opposing second end of the touch screen display.

28. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first object moves along a portion of the touchscreen display.

29. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first object touches the touchscreen display.

30. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first object interacts with a capacitive field of the touchscreen display.

31. detecting a second object interacting with the touch screen display; 24. The method of claim 23, wherein automatically powering off the touchscreen display occurs only if the first object interacts with the touchscreen display in the first pattern and the second object interacts with the touchscreen display in the second pattern.

32. the first pattern comprises the first object moving from a first position relative to the touch screen display to a second position relative to the touch screen display; 32. The method of claim 31 , wherein the second pattern comprises the second object moving from a third position relative to the touch screen display to a fourth position relative to the touch screen display.

33. 32. The method of claim 31 , wherein the first pattern comprises a vertical line from a first location relative to the touch screen display to a second location relative to the touch screen display.

34. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the first object is in the second position relative to the touchscreen display when the display device is stowed.

35. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first object comprises a stylus tip.

36. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first object comprises a metal object.

37. 24. The method of claim 23, further comprising automatically powering on the touch screen display if the first object moves along the touch screen display in a second pattern, the second pattern being opposite to the first pattern.

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