Electronic add-on system for associating sound with pictures or picture frames and picture frame with sound

Abstract

An electronic system configured to store and play a pre-recorded message or sound upon activation is disclosed, wherein the electronic system is arranged within a physical structure (5), such as a housing, and comprises a play button (6) protruding from the physical structure (5) and being configured to initiate playback of a message or sound stored within the electronic system when pressed, wherein the physical structure (5) is configured to be attached to a back side of a frame body (3) of a picture frame (1) or to the back side of a physical picture (4) without a picture frame, such as by means of mechanical fastenings or an adhesive, in such a way that if the picture frame (1) or the physical picture (4) is attached to a wall (2), the play button (6) protrudes in a direction towards or away from the wall (2). Furthermore, a picture frame (1) configured to be attached to a wall (2) is disclosed, said picture frame (1) comprising a frame body (3) configured to hold a picture (4) and an electronic system configured to store and play a pre-recorded message or sound upon activation.

Description

[0001] P7389PC00

[0002] ELECTRONIC ADD-ON SYSTEM FOR ASSOCIATING SOUND WITH PICTURES OR PICTURE FRAMES AND PICTURE FRAME WITH SOUND

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to electronics for storing and playing pre-recorded sound associated with pictures or picture frames and to a picture frame with such electronics.

[0005] Background

[0006] Picture frames that incorporate electronics for storing and playing pre-recorded messages or sounds are well known in the art. These picture frames are designed to enhance the visual and auditory experience by allowing users to associate sound, such as personal greetings, bedtime stories, songs, etc. with the picture displayed in the picture frame. Typically, the electronics are embedded within the picture frame, and a play button is provided to initiate playback of the sound message. For aesthetic reasons, maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance on the front side, this play button may be located on the back side of the picture frame.

[0007] However, positioning the play button on the back side of the picture frame may present several practical disadvantages, if the picture frame is to be mounted on a wall. In that case, accessing the play button by reaching behind the picture frame is not only inconvenient and cumbersome, but may often be directly impossible. Therefore, the play button is normally arranged on the front side of such picture frames, which are meant for being mounted onto a wall, thereby disrupting the aesthetical appearance of the picture frame.

[0008] It is therefore an objective of the present disclosure to provide electronics for storing and playing pre-recorded sound messages, music files, etc., which can be arranged on the back side of a picture or a picture frame to be mounted onto a wall, and to provide a picture frame with such electronics, wherein the playback can be easily initiated from the front side of the picture or the picture frame without the need to reach behind the picture frame or compromise the picture frame's aesthetic appearance. P7389PC00

[0009] Summary

[0010] The present disclosure relates to an electronic system configured to store and play a pre-recorded message or sound upon activation, wherein the electronic system is arranged within a physical structure, such as a housing, and comprises a play button protruding from the physical structure and being configured to initiate playback of a message or sound stored within the electronic system when pressed, wherein the physical structure is configured to be attached to a back side of a frame body of a picture frame or to the back side of a physical picture without a picture frame, such as by means of mechanical fastenings or an adhesive, in such a way that if the picture frame or the physical picture is attached to a wall, the play button protrudes in a direction towards or away from the wall.

[0011] When mounted on the back side of a picture frame or a physical picture, an electronic system configured like this provides a convenient solution for initiating playback of sound associated with a physical picture, such as a photograph or a printed image on paper or cardboard, without requiring the user to reach behind the picture frame and without disrupting the aesthetical appearance of the picture frame. By positioning the play button in such a way that it can be pressed by a relative motion between the electronic system and the wall or between the electronic system and the picture frame in a direction perpendicular to the wall, playback can be initiated simply by applying pressure to the front side of the picture frame. Playback can be initiated by pressing any point on the front side of the frame body, or, in some embodiments, by pressing a defined activation zone, such as the lower half of the picture frame, to enhance usability and reduce accidental triggers. Initiation of playback is therefore achieved in an indirect way, where the play button, located on the back side of the frame, is not pressed directly, but is triggered by applying pressure on the front side of the frame. This setup eliminates the need for buttons on the front of the picture frame, preserving the integrity of the image or text being presented. Thus, the system allows for easy activation while maintaining the aesthetic quality of the picture frame. In principle, the electronic system may be mounted on the back side of any picture frame or physical picture, but in practice, obviously, there will be some physical requirements to the picture frame or the physical picture such as, for instance, the stiffness thereof. P7389PC00

[0012] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, it relates to a picture frame configured to be attached to a wall, said picture frame comprising a frame body configured to hold a picture by surrounding or partly surrounding the picture so that the picture is visible on a front side of the frame body, the front side being configured to face away from the wall when the picture frame is attached to the wall, an electronic system configured to store and play a pre-recorded message or sound upon activation, and a play button configured to initiate playback of a message or sound stored within the electronic system when pressed, wherein the electronic system is arranged within a physical structure, such as a housing, on a back side of the frame body, the back side being configured to face the wall when the picture frame is attached to the wall, and wherein the play button is positioned so that playback is initiated by pressing on the front side of the frame body in a direction towards the wall.

[0013] This configuration provides a convenient solution for initiating playback of sound associated with a physical picture, such as a photograph or a printed image on paper or cardboard, without requiring any buttons on the front side of the picture frame. By positioning the play button in such a way that it can be pressed by applying pressure to the front side of the picture frame, the system allows for easy activation while maintaining the aesthetic quality of the picture frame. The physical structure containing the electronic system is discreetly attached to the back of the picture frame, ensuring that it does not interfere with the appearance of the physical picture displayed on the front. This setup eliminates the need for buttons on the front of the picture frame or on the side of the picture frame, preserving the integrity of the image or text being presented.

[0014] The design also allows for flexible installation, as the physical structure can be attached to the frame body and / or the wall using various methods such as mechanical fastenings or adhesives. This provides the option to adapt the picture frame for different environments and mounting conditions. The play button’s position allows for easy use even when the picture frame is mounted close to the wall, and the system ensures that the playback can be triggered by simply pressing on the front of the picture frame, making it user-friendly while minimizing any aesthetic disruptions.

[0015] Detailed description P7389PC00

[0016] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic system further comprises one or more speakers, one or more batteries, a volume adjustment control, a switch for selecting between a number of pre-recorded sound messages, and / or equalizer software for sound optimization. The inclusion of one or more speakers allows for clear playback of the pre-recorded message or sound. The batteries provide a portable and self-sustaining power source, eliminating the need for external power connections and enabling flexibility in mounting the picture frame onto a wall. A volume adjustment control offers the user the option to regulate the sound output according to their preference, while equalizer software ensures that the sound is optimized for clarity and quality, enhancing the overall user experience. A switch may offer the user the option to choose a pre-recorded message or sound from a number of available recordings.

[0017] The equalizer software can be used to optimize the quality of the pre-recorded message or sound, by adjusting the amplitude of different audio frequency bands. The equalizer software can be applied to the pre-recorded message or sound before uploading the pre-recorded message or sound to the electronic system. The optimization can take place based on the geometrical features of the electronic system, tailoring the optimization to the acoustics characteristics of the physical structure. Additionally, the optimization can take place based on the placement of the electronic system. For example, when the picture frame is mounted close to a wall, certain frequencies may become amplified or attenuated due to reflections or resonance. The equalizer software can mitigate these effects, improving clarity and overall sound quality. The equalizer software used to optimize audio quality can be selected based on the type of content (e.g., voice or music). The appropriate equalizer profile can be applied before the prerecorded message or sound is uploaded to the electronics system.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic system further comprises a power input, such as a USB-C power input. This allows the electronic system to operate without relying solely on internal batteries, enabling continuous playback without frequent battery replacement or recharging. The power input can for instance be a USB port, a USB-C port, a micro-USB port or a barrel Jack connector.

[0019] The volume adjustment control can allow selection between volume levels, such as three levels, with volume level at 20-25%, at 50% or at 100% of the output power. The P7389PC00 volume level can be selected depending on the type of pre-recorded message or sound. For example, a low level at 20-25% may be selected for a pre-recorded bedtime story.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the physical structure is dimensioned so that, when attached to a frame body or a physical picture, it covers an area of between 5 cm2and 10,000 cm2, such as between 15 cm2and 10,000 cm2, preferably between 25 cm2and 500 cm2, on the back side of the frame body or the physical picture. This configuration allows for a compact and unobtrusive attachment of the electronic system to the picture frame or the picture, ensuring that the system remains concealed behind the picture frame or the picture without interfering with the aesthetic appeal of the picture. By appropriately sizing the physical structure, the electronic system can be integrated into picture frames of various sizes and shapes, making the solution adaptable to different designs and layouts. The physical structure covering a minimum area of 5 cm2can be useful for implementation in small format items, such as commemorative plaques, while a physical structure covering a maximum are of 10,000 cm2can be useful for implementation in large format items, such as artworks. The electronics system can be affixed directly to the rear side of an artistic format, enabling the addition of audio functionality without interfering with the original design intent. For enhanced stability in large picture frames, the picture frame can, for instance, be fastened on the wall using mounting flanges placed at the top half of the picture frame, while the physical structure can be placed on the bottom half of the picture frame.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the play button protrudes from the physical structure by 2-10 mm, preferably by 3-7 mm, such as by 5 mm. Since the play button is not visible from the front side of the picture frame or the physical picture and is not intended to be directly touched or reached by the user, the protrusion of the button is optimized to ensure effective activation through a relative motion between the electronic system and either the wall or the picture frame or physical picture itself. The range of protrusion is chosen to allow the user to initiate playback of the recording by applying pressure to the front of the picture frame or the physical picture, without requiring the picture frame or picture to move an excessive distance. This prevents the picture frame or picture from needing to be pushed too far towards the wall, which would be inconvenient or impractical, especially when the picture frame is mounted securely. At the same time, the play button is designed to avoid being overly sensitive, P7389PC00 ensuring that accidental touches or slight movements of the picture frame or picture will not trigger the playback unintentionally. The specific range of protrusion balances ease of use with the need to prevent accidental activation, providing a reliable and user- friendly interaction with the picture frame.

[0022] Activation of audio playback can be limited to a single trigger event per physical press, so that repeated or excessive pressing does not result in multiple playbacks. A selective content delivery logic can additionally be employed, for allowing time- controlled or sequentially unlocked new audio segments to be unlocked. This could be particularly useful for example, if playback of one chapter in a serialized story is to be played per day, or if playback of a guided audio experience is to be played in a time- controlled or sequential manner. This may be handled via app-based interaction or backend scheduling, while still using the same simple mechanical activation. The use of a wireless module, enabling communication with a user device via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, can support implementation of this feature, allowing the user to select the order of playback of the prerecorded messages and controlling the time, in which each prerecorded message becomes available.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the physical structure comprises a, preferably internal, cavity configured to function as an acoustic chamber for sound optimization. This cavity enhances the acoustic performance of the system by amplifying and directing sound in a way that improves its clarity and volume, which is independent of external mounting conditions. By incorporating an acoustic chamber, the overall sound quality is improved, providing a richer and more immersive audio experience. The cavity can be designed in various shapes and sizes to suit the specific acoustic requirements of the system. The physical structure can act as a resonant chamber, improving the clarity of the pre-recorded message or sound. The components placed within the physical structure (speaker, batteries etc.) can be arranged to avoid direct contact with any vibrating surface, arranged to allow for airflow pathways and / or for incorporating additional dampening materials within the physical structure. This passive way of improving the clarity of the pre-recorded message or sound can be used in combination with the equalizer software.

[0024] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic system further comprises a local memory for storing the pre-recorded message or sound within the electronic P7389PC00 system. This enables the system to operate without continuous need for an external user device connection, ensuring reliable playback at any time and in any location. This additionally contributes to the portability of system.

[0025] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic system further comprises an adjustment mechanism configured for adjusting a sensitivity of the play button, such as by adjusting the pressure needed to activate the play button. This feature emphasizes the adaptability of the system. An actuation force can for example be adjusted, depending on where the system is mounted (e.g. wall with uneven or soft surface) or who is activating the system (e.g. a child, an elderly person or a person with mobility impairments). This adjustment can further ensure prevention of accidental activation, if a very low amount of pressure is needed for activation of the play button. This allows the system to be adapted to the specific physical properties of a picture frame that the electronics system will be attached to or its intended mounting context, such as weight, material, or the nature of the surface it is mounted on. For example, lighter frames may use a more sensitive button to ensure ease of use, while heavier frames, such as artist plaques, may require a higher actuation force to prevent accidental activation. These adjustments are made during manufacturing and are not user-configurable, but ensure that the core interaction (pressing the front of the frame to initiate playback) remains consistent and reliable across different product versions and installation conditions.

[0026] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic system further comprises a wireless communication module, configured to allow transfer of the message or sound from an external user device, such as a mobile device. That way, users can easily upload or replace sound files from smartphones, tablets, or computers without physically accessing the electronics system. The wireless communication module can be a Near-field communication module, suitable if close contact of an external user device and the system is possible, a Bluetooth module, suitable for short range file transfer, a Wi-Fi or cellular network module, suitable for transferring files over a local network or remotely.

[0027] The use of a wireless communication module can further enable the synchronization between a plurality of picture frames. The picture frames can be interconnected via a wireless network for synchronized or sequential audio playback. P7389PC00

[0028] Alternatively, transferring of the message or sound from an external user device can take place using a USB port or a high-speed Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) through a needlebed connection. SPI is preferred when transferring large audio files such as for example exceeding fifteen minutes in duration.

[0029] The electronics system may be configured to accept a wide range of audio and formats. Automatic conversion to MP3 format via a server-side backend prior to transfer may be employed for ensuring consistent compatibility and performance.

[0030] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic system further comprises a power management system, configured for minimizing an amount of power used by the electronic system while it remains idle. The energy consumption is reduced, ensuring that only essential components remain active at all times, which contributes to a longer lifespan of the electronics system.

[0031] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the play button protrudes from the back side of the physical structure, in which the electronic system is arranged, extending further in the direction towards the wall than any part of the frame body. This arrangement ensures that when the picture frame is mounted to the wall, the play button is in contact with or near the wall, allowing playback to be initiated by pressing the front of the picture frame without requiring direct interaction with the button itself. The positioning of the play button ensures that the system remains discreet, preserving the aesthetic appearance of the picture frame while enabling convenient activation.

[0032] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, playback initiation is achieved by pressing at any point on the front side of the frame body in a direction towards the wall. This feature provides flexibility in operation, allowing the user to initiate playback from any area of the front side of the picture frame, making the system intuitive and easy to use. The user does not need to locate a specific point on the picture frame, improving accessibility and ensuring consistent performance regardless of where the pressure is applied.

[0033] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, playback initiation is achieved by pressing on an activation zone of the front side of the frame body towards the wall. Defining an activation zone on the front side of the frame body helps users intuitively know where P7389PC00 to press, improving usability without needing instructions. No visible control or indication of the activation zone is required, especially if a clean aesthetic appearance of the frame is desired. Alternatively, the activation zone can be designed discreetly or integrated into decorative elements, maintaining the overall visual appeal of the frame while guiding user interaction. Additionally, the use of an activation zone prevents unintended playback when users handle or clean other parts of the frame.

[0034] The electronics system may comprise one or more play buttons. More than one play buttons may be implemented which can be associated with different activation zones. One play button can be associated with a single activation zone and the play buttons may be placed at different locations behind the picture frame, with respect to each activation zone. For example, pressing on the lower-left corner of the picture frame may initiate playback of one pre-recorded message or sound, while pressing on the lower-right corner of the picture frame may initiate playback of another pre-recorded message or sound. This can be used, for example, in cases where the picture displayed within the picture frame depicts two people, and each person has prerecorded a different message to be played upon activation. Pressing in the respective side of the picture frame where that person is depicted will then result in activation of a different play button and initiation of playback of a different pre-recorded message or sound. A selective content delivery logic can be employed to ensure that playback initiation by indirectly pressing of one play button is not possible during playback that has been initiated by indirectly pressing of another play button.

[0035] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the activation zone comprises substantially the lower half of the front side of the frame body. Users typically adjust or touch the top or sides of a frame when hanging, straightening, or cleaning it. Placing the activation zone in the lower section minimizes accidental triggering during such activities. Moreover, this is particularly useful for bigger frames, where accessing the top area can be inconvenient, whereas the lower section remains easily reachable.

[0036] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, playback is initiated by pressing on the front side of the frame body in a direction towards the wall and substantially perpendicular to the wall. Activating the playback of the pre-recorded message or sound is simple and intuitive, without the need for complicated instructions. Direct P7389PC00 perpendicular force can minimize the strain on the mounting hardware, which reduces the risk of loosening or damaging the frame’s attachment to the wall.

[0037] In the embodiments described above, playback is considered to be initiated in an indirect way. The play button, which is located on the back side of the frame, is not pressed directly, but is triggered by applying pressure on the front side of the frame. This is performed as described above by either pressing at any point on the front side of the frame body in a direction towards the wall, pressing on an activation zone of the front side of the frame body towards the wall or by by pressing on the front side of the frame body in a direction towards the wall and substantially perpendicular to the wall.

[0038] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic system within the picture frame corresponds to the electronic system described above. This integration allows the picture frame to benefit from the same advanced sound playback capabilities and features, such as speaker configurations, battery options, and optimized sound settings, while maintaining a compact and efficient design suitable for wall-mounted applications.

[0039] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the depth of the frame body in a direction perpendicular to the wall when the picture frame is attached to the wall ranges between 0.2 cm and 15 cm, preferably between 2 cm and 5 cm. This variation in depth allows the picture frame to accommodate different design preferences and structural requirements. Deeper picture frames may provide a more pronounced aesthetic or offer additional durability, while thinner picture frames can create a sleek, modern appearance that integrates well into various environments.

[0040] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the frame body is made of materials such as wood, plastic (including recycled plastic), glass, or metal. This provides a wide range of material options to suit different preferences and applications. For example, wooden picture frames offer a traditional or rustic feel, while metal picture frames provide a more modern and industrial look. Recycled plastic can be used for environmentally conscious designs, and glass picture frames may enhance a minimalist or elegant aesthetic. P7389PC00

[0041] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional shape of the frame body in a plane parallel to the wall when the picture frame is attached to the wall is circular or polygonal, such as rectangular or square. This flexibility in picture frame shape allows for the design to suit various aesthetic and functional needs. Circular picture frames can provide a unique and softer visual appeal, while polygonal picture frames, particularly rectangular or square, are commonly used for more traditional or formal display purposes.

[0042] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the frame body in directions parallel to the wall when the picture frame is attached to the wall ranges from 10 cm to 200 cm, preferably between 20 cm and 80 cm. These dimensions provide versatility in the size of the picture frame, allowing it to display small to large pictures and fit within various interior spaces. The wide range of sizes ensures that the picture frame can be tailored to different user needs, whether for personal use in homes or for larger displays in public or commercial spaces.

[0043] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the width of the front side of the part of the frame body that surrounds the picture ranges from 0.5 cm to 10 cm, preferably between 1 cm and 5 cm. This variation in width allows for different visual effects, with narrower borders offering a minimalist, understated look, and wider borders providing a more robust, framed appearance. The range ensures that the frame part is wide enough for being pressed without causing any uncomfortable feeling to the finger pressing it and that it can accommodate various artistic or photographic works, enhancing the visual impact of the displayed content.

[0044] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the picture frame is configured to be attached to the wall by means of one or more mounting flanges, which may be part of the physical structure of the electronic system, in such a way that the frame body does not touch the wall. This feature provides several advantages. First, this design allows for improved acoustic performance, as the space behind the picture frame can enhance sound dispersion, ensuring clearer and more resonant audio playback from the integrated electronic system. If no gap is provided either between the picture frame and the wall or somewhere else, such as between the frame body and the picture, the sound quality on the front side of the picture frame may deteriorate considerably. Additionally, by suspending the frame body away from the wall, the risk of damage to P7389PC00 both the picture frame and the wall is reduced, as friction or direct contact is minimized. This is particularly beneficial for delicate surfaces or finishes, where contact could cause scratches or wear over time.

[0045] The gap created between the frame body and the wall can also enhance the overall visual appeal, creating a floating effect that gives the picture frame a modern and refined appearance. Furthermore, this configuration can provide better ventilation for the electronics, helping to prevent overheating and ensuring the longevity and reliability of the system.

[0046] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the frame body contains no visible buttons or control interfaces on the front side of the frame body. This provides enhanced aesthetical appeal, with minimal interface on the front side of the picture frame. Apart from simplifying the design solely for cost reasons, this design philosophy aims to restore focus, tactility, and permanence in an increasingly transient digital environment. The picture frame achieves a deliberate sensory experience that encourages emotional engagement, reflection, and presence. This departure from screen-based interaction paradigms is central to the identity of the picture frame according to the present disclosure and its differentiation from conventional audio-enabled devices.

[0047] Figures

[0048] In the following, a few exemplary embodiments of the disclosure are described in more detail with reference to the figures, of which

[0049] Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of a picture frame according to an embodiment of the disclosure,

[0050] Fig. 2 is a schematic rear view of a picture frame according to an embodiment of the disclosure, and

[0051] Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of a picture frame according to an embodiment of the disclosure, which is attached to a wall. P7389PC00

[0052] Fig. 4 is a schematic view of the electronics system according to an embodiment of the disclosure

[0053] Fig. 1 shows how the frame body 3 surrounds the physical picture 4 and illustrates how the horizontal frame body dimension HFD and the vertical frame body dimension VFD may be defined for a rectangular picture frame. This figure also illustrates how the frame width FW, i.e. the width of the front side of the part of the frame body 3 that surrounds the physical picture 4, is defined.

[0054] The electronic system and the physical structure 5, in which it is arranged, being hidden behind the frame body 3 in this view, the picture frame 1 looks like any other picture frame when seen from the front side as in Fig. 1 . In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 , the frame body 3 contains no visible buttons or control interfaces on the front side of the frame body 3.

[0055] It should be noted that the orientation of the picture frame is not relevant for the scope of the present disclosure. In the embodiment schematically illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2 the picture frame is oriented with the longest dimension in the horizontal direction, but in other embodiments it may be oriented with the longest dimension in the vertical direction and / or the picture frame may be square, circular, elliptical, octagonal or any other shape.

[0056] Fig. 2 shows how the physical structure 5 containing the electronic system is attached to the back side of the frame body 3. It highlights possible positions of key electronic components, such as the play button 6, the speaker 7, the battery 8, the volume adjustment control 9, and the switch 12 for selecting between a number or prerecorded messages, and it shows an example of a mounting flange 10 configured for attachment of the picture frame 1 and physical structure 5 to a wall (not shown in this figure).

[0057] Fig. 3 illustrates the definition of the Play Button Protrusion PBP, which is the distance, by which the play button 6 protrudes from the physical structure 5, the definition of the gap GFW between the frame body 3 and the wall 2, and the definition of the frame body depth FD, which is the dimension of the frame body 3 in a direction perpendicular to the wall 2. Furthermore, it depicts an example of a mounting flange 10 configured for P7389PC00 attachment of the physical structure 5 and, thereby, the picture frame 1 to the wall 2, and one or more mounting screws 11 used for mounting the picture frame 1 to the wall 2. Obviously, the mounting flange 10 may be designed in many other ways than the one depicted in Fig. 3. For example, for added safety, the use of inverted keyholeshaped cutouts may be beneficial.

[0058] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3, the physical structure 5 is rigidly attached to the back side of the frame body 3, and the picture frame 1 is pivotably attached to the wall 2. If the picture frame 1 is attached to the wall 2 in two attachment points, for instance by using two mounting screws 11 as with the mounting flange 10 shown in Fig. 2, the picture frame 1 can rotate in two opposite directions (typically up and down) about a pivot line passing through these two attachment points. If on the other hand, the picture frame 1 is attached to the wall 2 in only one attachment point, for instance using a single mounting screw 11 , that attachment point constitutes a pivot point around which the picture frame 1 can rotate in all directions.

[0059] The picture frame can be mounted to the wall using inverted keyhole-shaped cutouts, which interface with standard wall screws. This design requires the frame to be lifted vertically and pulled outward in order to detach from the wall, providing a passive safety feature that prevents unintended removal, particularly by children.

[0060] The play button 6 is in physical contact with the wall 2, so that pressing the front side of the frame body 3 towards the wall 2 in such a way that the part of the physical structure 5, at which the play button 6 is positioned, moves closer to the wall 2, causes the play button 6 to be pressed towards the physical structure 5 by the wall 2, and playback of a message or sound stored in the electronic system is initiated. Initiation of playback is therefore achieved in an indirect way, not by directly pressing the play button 6, but by applying pressure on the front side of the frame 1 , causes the play button 6 to be pressed towards the physical structure 5 by the wall 2.

[0061] In some embodiments, pressing the front side of the frame body 3 towards the wall 2, occurs in a direction perpendicular to the wall 2. Pressing the front side of the frame body 3 can take place by pressing at any point of the front side of the frame body 3 towards the wall 2 or it can take place by pressing on an activation zone of the front side of the frame body 3 towards the wall 2. The activation zone can comprise P7389PC00 substantially the lower half of the front side of the frame body 3, which can be useful for accessibility reasons.

[0062] In other embodiments (not shown in the figures), there may be some space between the physical structure 5 and the frame body 3, the play button 6 may protrude from the physical structure 5 into that space in a direction away from the wall 2, preferably to be in contact with the back side of the frame body 3, and the physical structure 5 may be pivotably attached to the frame body 3 and rigidly attached to the wall 2. In such embodiments, when pressing the front side of the frame body 3 towards the wall 2 in such a way that the frame body 3 moves closer to the part of the physical structure 5, at which the play button 6 is positioned, the play button 6 is pressed towards the physical structure 5 by the back side of the frame body 3, and playback of a message or sound stored in the electronic system is initiated.

[0063] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3, the play button protrusion PBP, i.e. the distance the play button 6 protrudes from the physical structure 5, is smaller than the gap GFW between the frame body 3 and the wall 2. In other embodiments, however, the play button protrusion PBP may be equal to or even smaller than the gap GFW.

[0064] In some embodiments of the disclosure, the electronic system comprises equalizer software (not shown), which may be used to optimize the quality of the sound perceived on the front side of the picture frame 1 , taking into consideration the physical shape and dimensions of the space between the frame body 3 and the wall 2, and the width of the gap GFW between the picture frame 1 and the wall 2.

[0065] In some embodiments of the disclosure, an acoustic chamber configured for isolating and amplifying the sound is formed between the frame body 3 and the wall 2, such as within the physical structure 5. The walls of such an acoustic chamber may be formed, for instance, by one or more printed circuit boards of the electronic system and / or different mechanical elements designed for that and potentially other purposes.

[0066] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, the physical structure 5 that is comprising the electronic system, comprises the following additional features: a power input 13, a local memory 14, an adjustment mechanism 15, a wireless communication module 16 and a power management system 17. The electronic system, according to the present P7389PC00 disclosure is arranged on a back side of the frame body 3, the back side being configured to face the wall 2 when the picture frame 1 is attached to the wall 2.

[0067] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, a local memory 14 is used to store the prerecorded message or sound at the electronics system. A wireless communication module 16 is also used in the embodiment shown in Fig. 4. The wireless communication module 16 can be used for transferring the file with the pre-recorded message or sound to the electronic system. For example, the transfer can take place by sending a signal 19 from an external user device, shown as a mobile device 18, to the electronic system that is housed within the physical structure 5. The signal 19 can, for instance, be send via cellular network, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. These features enable transfer of data without the need for hardware connection to the physical structure 5, especially useful if the physical structure 5 is attached on the side of a wall-hung picture frame 1 that is in contact with the wall 2.

[0068] The power input 13 can be used alone or in combination with one or more batteries 8. A power management system 17, as shown in Fig. 4, can be implemented in the electronics system for minimizing the amount of energy needed when the electronics system remains idle. If one or more batteries 8 are used a power source, this feature allows for extending the battery life of the electronics system. Regardless of the use of batteries 8, a power input 13 or a combination of the two, this feature contributes to a longer lifespan of the electronics system.

[0069] An adjustment mechanism 15, as shown in Fig. 4 can be implemented for adjusting a sensitivity of the play button 6, such as by adjusting the pressure needed to activate the play button 6. This makes the electronics system suitable for use in a picture frame 1 that is attached to a wall 2, especially if the wall 2 has an uneven or soft surface. This further contributes to the play button 6 not being accidentally activated, in different usecase scenarios. These adjustments are made during manufacturing and are not user- configurable, but ensure that the core interaction (pressing the front of the frame to initiate playback) remains consistent and reliable across different product versions and installation conditions. P7389PC00

[0070] References

[0071] 1 Picture frame

[0072] 2 Wall

[0073] 3 Frame body

[0074] 4 Physical picture

[0075] 5 Physical structure comprising electronic system

[0076] 6 Play button

[0077] 7 Speaker

[0078] 8 Battery

[0079] 9 Volume adjusting control

[0080] 10 Mounting flange

[0081] 11 Mounting screw

[0082] 12 Switch for selecting between pre-recorded sound messages

[0083] 13 Power input

[0084] 14 Local memory

[0085] 15 Adjustment mechanism

[0086] 16 Wireless communication module

[0087] 17 Power management system

[0088] 18 Mobile device

[0089] 19 Signal

[0090] FD Frame body depth

[0091] FW Frame width

[0092] GFW Gap between frame body and wall

[0093] HFD Horizontal frame body dimension

[0094] PBP Play button protrusion

[0095] VFD Vertical frame body dimension

Claims

P7389PC00Claims1 . An electronic system configured to store and play a pre-recorded message or sound upon activation, wherein the electronic system is arranged within a physical structure (5), such as a housing, and comprises a play button (6) protruding from the physical structure (5) and being configured to initiate playback of a message or sound stored within the electronic system when pressed, wherein the physical structure (5) is configured to be attached to a back side of a frame body (3) of a picture frame (1 ) or to the back side of a physical picture (4) without a picture frame, such as by means of mechanical fastenings or an adhesive, in such a way that if the picture frame (1 ) or the physical picture (4) is attached to a wall (2), the play button (6) protrudes in a direction towards or away from the wall (2).

2. The electronic system according to claim 1 , further comprising one or more speakers (7), one or more batteries (8), a volume adjustment control (9), a switch (12) for selecting between a number of pre-recorded sound messages, and / or equalizer software for sound optimization.

3. The electronic system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the physical structure (5) is dimensioned so that, when attached to a frame body (3) or a physical picture (4), it covers an area of between 5 cm2and 10,000 cm2, such as between 15 cm2and 10,000 cm2, preferably between 25 cm2and 500 cm2, on the back side of the frame body (3) or the physical picture (4).

4. The electronic system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the play button (6) protrudes (PBP) from the physical structure (5) by 2-10 mm, preferably by 3- 7 mm, such as by 5 mm.

5. The electronic system according to any of the preceding claims, where the physical structure (5) comprises a, preferably internal, cavity configured to function as an acoustic chamber for sound optimization.P7389PC006. The electronic system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a power input, such as a USB-C power input.

7. The electronic system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a local memory for storing the pre-recorded message or sound within the electronic system.

8. The electronic system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising an adjustment mechanism configured for adjusting a sensitivity of the play button, such as by adjusting the pressure needed to activate the play button.

9. The electronic system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a wireless communication module, configured to allow transfer of the message or sound from an external user device, such as a mobile device.

10. The electronic system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a power management system, configured for minimizing an amount of power used by the electronic system while it remains idle.11 . A picture frame (1 ) configured to be attached to a wall (2), said picture frame (1 ) comprising: a frame body (3) configured to hold a picture (4) by surrounding or partly surrounding the picture (4) so that the picture (4) is visible on a front side of the frame body (3), the front side being configured to face away from the wall (2) when the picture frame (1 ) is attached to the wall (2), an electronic system configured to store and play a pre-recorded message or sound upon activation, and a play button (6) configured to initiate playback of a message or sound stored within the electronic system when pressed,P7389PC00 wherein the electronic system is arranged within a physical structure (5), such as a housing, on a back side of the frame body (3), the back side being configured to face the wall (2) when the picture frame (1 ) is attached to the wall (2), and wherein the play button (6) is positioned so that playback is initiated by pressing on the front side of the frame body (3) in a direction towards the wall (2).

12. The picture frame (1 ) according to claim 11 , wherein the play button (6) protrudes from the back side of the physical structure (5), in which the electronic system is arranged, and extends further in a direction towards the wall (2) than any part of the frame body (3).

13. The picture frame (1 ) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein playback initiation is achieved by pressing at any point of the front side of the frame body (3) towards the wall (2).

14. The picture frame (1 ) according to claims 11 or 12, wherein playback initiation is achieved by pressing on an activation zone of the front side of the frame body (3) towards the wall (2).

15. The picture frame (1 ) according to claim 14, wherein the activation zone comprises substantially the lower half of the front side of the frame body (3).

16. The picture frame (1 ) according to claims 11-15, wherein playback is initiated by pressing on the front side of the frame body (3) in a direction towards the wall (2) and substantially perpendicular to the wall (2).

17. The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11-16, wherein the electronic system is the electronic system according to any of claims 1-5.

18. The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11-17, wherein a depth (FD) of the frame body (3) in the direction perpendicular to the wall (2) when the picture frame (1 ) is attached to the wall (2) is between 0.2 cm and 15 cm, preferably between 2 cm and 5 cm.21P7389PC0019. The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11-18, wherein the frame body (3) is made of wood, plastic, such as recycled plastic, glass, or metal.

20. The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11-19, wherein, in a plane which is parallel to the wall (2) when the picture frame (1 ) is attached to the wall (2), the cross- sectional shape of the frame body (3) is circular or polygonal, such as rectangular or square.21 . The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11 -20, wherein the horizontal (HFD) and vertical (VFD) dimensions of the frame body (3) in directions parallel to the wall (2) when the picture frame (1 ) is attached to the wall (2) are between 10 cm and 200 cm, preferably between 20 cm and 80 cm.

22. The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11-21 , wherein the width (FW) of the front side of the part of the frame body (3) that surrounds the picture (4) is between 0.5 cm and 10 cm, preferably between 1 cm and 5 cm.

23. The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11 -22, wherein the picture frame (1 ) is configured to be attached to the wall (2) by means of the one or more mounting flanges (10), which may be part of the physical structure (5) of the electronic system, in such a way that the frame body (3) does not touch the wall (2).

24. The picture frame (1 ) according to any of claims 11-23, wherein the frame body (3) contains no visible buttons or control interfaces on the front side of the frame body (3).

Images