Device cradles and robot assemblies for automated actuation of electronic devices

Abstract

Provided herein are robot assemblies for automating the physical actuation of a sequence or combination of keys of electronic devices, as well as device cradles configured to enable the physical actuation of said sequence or combination of keys. According to the present disclosure, such device cradles can include: a base comprising one or more retaining projections extending from a first face of the base, wherein the one or more retaining projections define a retaining space configured to receive and support the electronic device; and an actuator frame configured to overlay the arrangement of keys of the electronic device when the electronic device is received by the retaining space of the base, wherein the actuator frame comprises a multi-key actuator configured to actuate a predetermined combination of keys.

Description

PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WODEVICE CRADLES AND ROBOT ASSEMBLIES FOR AUTOMATED ACTUATION OF ELECTRONIC DEVICESField of the Disclosure

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to robot assemblies for automating the physical actuation of electronic devices, and more specifically to cradles for enabling the physical actuation of electronic devices by said robot assemblies.Background

[0002] Numerous electronics, such as payment terminals, contain functions that operate by pressing one or more button, keys, and / or the like. In certain cases, these functions may be activated by actuating (physically or otherwise) a combination of such buttons or keys, simultaneously or in sequence. For example, in order to bring a payment terminal to a default state, a predetermined combination or sequence of key presses may be required. This process is tedious, time consuming, and prone to human error. Further, because these predetermines combinations or sequences of key presses may vary between devices and even specific models, this presents significant challenges when attempting to return a large number of such electronics to a particular state.Summary of the Disclosure

[0003] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cradle for a robot assembly configured to actuate one or more keys of an electronic device having an arrangement of keys is provided. The cradle may include: a base comprising one or more retaining projections extending from a first face of the base, wherein the one or more retaining projections define a retaining space configured to receive and support the electronic device; and an actuator frame configured to overlay the arrangement of keys of the electronic device when the electronic device is received by the retaining space of the base, wherein the actuator frame comprises a multi-key actuator configured to actuate a predetermined combination of keys.

[0004] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may be configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously.

[0005] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may be configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously when a stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to a first surface of the multi-key actuator at a first location.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO

[0006] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may be further configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually.

[0007] In an aspect, the multi-key may be configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually when the stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to the first surface of the multi-key actuator at one or more locations different from the first location.

[0008] In an aspect, the predetermined combination of keys may include at least two keys of the arrangement of keys.

[0009] In an aspect, the predetermined combination of keys may include at least three keys of the arrangement of keys.

[0010] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may include one or more key-sensitive protrusions extending from a second surface of the multi-key actuator opposite the first surface.

[0011] In an aspect, the one or more key-sensitive protrusions of the multi-key actuator may be configured to physically depress a corresponding key of the predetermined combination of keys of the electronic device.

[0012] In an aspect, at least one of the one or more key-sensitive protrusions of the multikey actuator may include a conductive surface configured to contact a corresponding key of the predetermined combination of keys of the electronic device.

[0013] In an aspect, the cradle may include a first actuator frame having a first multi-key actuator configured to actuate a first predetermined combination of keys, and a second actuator frame having a second multi -key actuator configured to actuate a second predetermined combination of keys, the first predetermined combination of keys being different from the second predetermined combination of keys.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a robot assembly configured to actuate one or more keys of an electronic device having an arrangement of keys is provided. The robot assembly may include: a stylus; and a cradle. The cradle may include: a base comprising one or more retaining projections extending from a first face of the base, wherein the one or more retaining projections define a retaining space configured to receive and support the electronic device; and an actuator frame configured to overlay the arrangement of keys of the electronic device when the electronic device is received by the retaining space of the base, wherein the actuator frame comprises a multi-key actuator configured to actuate a predetermined combination of keys.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO

[0015] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may be configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously.

[0016] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may be configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously when the stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to a first surface of the multi-key actuator at a first location.

[0017] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may be further configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually.

[0018] In an aspect, the multi-key may be configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually when the stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to the first surface of the multi-key actuator at one or more locations different from the first location.

[0019] In an aspect, the predetermined combination of keys may include at least two keys of the arrangement of keys.

[0020] In an aspect, the multi-key actuator may include one or more key-sensitive protrusions extending from a second surface of the multi-key actuator opposite the first surface.

[0021] According to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of bringing an electronic device to a second operational state from a first operational state is provided. The method may include: (i) operating a stylus of a robot assembly to apply pressure to a multi-key actuator of a cradle supporting the electronic device within a retaining space of the cradle, wherein the stylus applies pressure to a first surface of the multi-key actuator at a first location, wherein the multi -key actuator actuates a predetermined combination of keys of the electronic device simultaneously in response to receiving pressure at the first location; and (ii) operating the stylus of the robot assembly to apply pressure to one or more keys of the electronic device supported within the retaining space of the cradle, wherein the one or more keys includes at least one key from the predetermined combination of keys, and wherein the one or more keys are actuated individually by applying pressure to the first surface of the multikey actuator at one or more locations different from the first location.In an aspect, the method may further include: (iii) operating the stylus of the robot assembly to apply pressure to one or more additional keys of the electronic device supported within the retaining space of the cradle, wherein the one or more additional keys are actuated without applying pressure to the multi-key actuator.

[0022] These and other aspects of the various embodiments will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WOBrief Description of the Drawings

[0023] In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to the same parts throughout the different views. Also, the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the various embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a robot assembly illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 2 is an illustration of an electronic device shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a stylus and stylus holder shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a keypress controller configured to operate a robot assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a device cradle illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 5B is another perspective view of a device cradle illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 6 is an illustration of an electronic device sitting in a device cradle in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of showing an actuator frame and multi-key actuator in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 8A is an illustration of a device cradle with the actuator frame opened in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 8B is an enlarged view of the opened actuator frame showing the multi-key actuator in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 9A is an illustration of another embodiment of an actuator frame shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 9B is an illustration of still another embodiment of an actuator frame shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 9C is an illustration of yet another embodiment of an actuator frame shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 10 is a partially-exploded view of a device cradle showing an undermount key actuator shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO

[0038] FIG. 11A is a top plan view of an undermount key actuator shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the undermount key actuator shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.Detailed Description of Embodiments

[0040] In accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, device cradles and robot assemblies for automating the physical actuation of electronic devices are provided. Also provided herein are methods of bringing such electronic devices from a first operational state to a second operational state by physical actuation of the electronic devices. It should be appreciated that said electronic devices can include an arrangement of one or more keys and be loaded with software and / or firmware that is controlled by actuating said one or more keys. Oftentimes, it is necessary to actuate the one or more keys in a particular combination or sequence in order to bring said electronic devices to a desired operational state. This combination or sequence of keys may be unique to each electronic device, and each electronic device may have a different arrangement of one or more keys. As such, the process of resetting or changing the operational state of said electronic devices is tedious, time consuming, and prone to human error. The device cradles and robot assemblies described herein address these challenges by improving upon the automated physical actuation of said arrangement of keys. Additional benefits will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0041] With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, illustrations of an exemplary robot assembly 100 and an exemplary electronic device 105 are shown in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The robot assembly 100 can be configured to actuate one or more keys 110 of an electronic device 105 having an arrangement 115 of keys 110.

[0042] In embodiments, the one or more keys 110 can include push button switches, including but not limited to linear, tactile, and dicky push button switches. In some embodiments, the one or more keys 110 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing 120 of the electronic device 105. The one or more keys 110 may be arranged in a key matrix where each key 110 is assigned a row and column. Put another way, the arrangement 115 of keys 110 may be a key matrix. In particular embodiments, the arrangement 115 of keys 110 may be referred to as a keypad.

[0043] In further embodiments, the one or more keys 110 of the electronic device 105 can include one or more touch-sensitive keys, such as capacitive touch buttons and touchscreenPATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO buttons. In such embodiments, the arrangement 115 of keys 110 can include a capacitive pad and / or a touchscreen located within the housing 120 of the electronic device 105, which is sensitive to contact by a conductive material (e.g., a finger or hand, a stylus, etc.). In some embodiments, the one or more keys 110 may include a combination of push button switches and touch-sensitive keys.

[0044] According to the present disclosure, the electronic device 105 can be embodied as various electronics, including but not limited to point-of-interaction devices, point-of-sale devices, and / or payment terminals. The present disclosure can be applied to any device that is equipped with a keyboard, for example, M425 and P400 terminals, and / or the like sold by VeriFone, Inc.

[0045] As described herein, the one or more keys 110 of the electronic device 105 may be actuated by the robot assembly 100. In particular embodiments, the robot assembly 100 comprises a moveable stylus 125 attached to a robotic frame 130. The robotic frame 130 can be configured to move the moveable stylus 125 in three-dimensional space (e.g., up-and-down, left-and-right, front-and-back, etc.). The robotic frame 130 can include one or more types of actuators, such as electric actuators, hydraulic actuators, pneumatic actuators, and / or the like, including combinations thereof. Although the robotic frame 130 is shown in FIG. 1 as comprising three linear actuators (each moving the stylus 125 is one of an x, y, or z axis), it should be appreciated that other robotic frames 130 are possible, including multi -joint robotic arms.

[0046] In embodiments, the robot assembly 100 can include one or more device cradles 135, each device cradle 135 being configured to receive and support a corresponding electronic device 105. In particular embodiments, the robot assembly 100 can include a platform 140 configured to receive the one or more device cradles 135. In embodiments, each device cradle 135 may be secured to the platform 140, for example, by magnets, clips, or other types of fasteners. The platform 140 of the robot assembly 100 may enable customizable and moveable configurations of the one or more device cradles 135. That is, the device cradles 135 may be securely engaged and disengaged from the platform 140.

[0047] In particular embodiments, the stylus 125 may be connected to the robotic frame 130 by a stylus chassis 145. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the stylus chassis 145 can include a stylus holder 150 having a gripping portion 155 configured to grip or otherwise hold the stylus 125. In embodiments, the stylus 125 may be removable from the stylus holder 150. However,PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO it is contemplated that the stylus 125 may be integrated into the stylus holder 150 or a portion thereof.

[0048] In embodiments, the stylus holder 150 may also include one or more types of fixings 160A, 160B for securing the stylus chassis 145 to a particular robot assembly 100.

[0049] In embodiments, the stylus chassis 145 may further include a camera 170 configured to record visual images, including visual images of the one or more electronic devices 105. In particular embodiments, the camera 170 can include a digital or optical camera, an infrared camera, and / or the like. As shown in FIG. 3, the camera 170 may be attached to the stylus holder 150 by a camera holder 175.

[0050] In particular embodiments, the robot assembly 100 can include a keypress controller configured to enable operation of the robot assembly 100, including movement of the stylus 125 so as to actuate the keys 110 of one or more electronic devices 105 disposed within one or more corresponding device cradles 135 and positioned within an operational range (e.g., the platform 140) of the robot assembly 100.

[0051] For example, with reference to FIG. 4, an exemplary keypress controller 200 is illustrated according to certain aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the keypress controller 200 can include one or more processors 202 and a computer-readable memory 204 interconnected and / or in communication via a system bus 206 containing conductive circuit pathways through which instructions (e.g., machine-readable signals) may travel to effectuate communication, tasks, storage, and the like.

[0052] The keypress controller 200 can be connected to a power source (not shown), which can include an internal power supply and / or an external power supply.

[0053] In embodiments, the keypress controller 200 can also include one or more additional components, such as a user interface 208, a display 210, an input / output (VO) interface 212, a networking unit 214, and the like, including combinations thereof. As shown, each of these components may be interconnected and / or in communication via the system bus 206, for example.

[0054] In embodiments, the one or more processors 202 can include one or more high-speed data processors adequate to execute the program components described herein and / or perform one or more operations of the methods described herein. The one or more processors 202 may include a microprocessor, a multi-core processor, a multithreaded processor, an ultra-low voltage processor, an embedded processor, and / or the like, including combinations thereof. The one or more processors 202 can include multiple processor cores on a single die and / or may bePATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO a part of a system on a chip (SoC) in which the processor 202 and other components are formed into a single integrated circuit, or a single package. That is, the one or more processors 202 may be a single processor, multiple independent processors, or multiple processor cores on a single die.

[0055] In embodiments, the user interface 208 may be configured to receive various forms of input from a user associated with the robot assembly 100. The user interface 208 can include, but is not limited to, one or more of a keyboard, keypad, trackpad, trackball(s), capacitive keyboard, controller (e.g., a gaming controller), computer mouse, computer stylus / pen, a voice input device, and / or the like, including combinations thereof.

[0056] In embodiments, the display device 210 may be configured to display information, including text, graphs, and / or the like. In particular embodiments, the display device 210 may be configured to display visual images captured by the camera 170. The display device 210 can include, but is not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, a touch screen or other touch-enabled display, a foldable display, a projection display, and so on, or combinations thereof.

[0057] In embodiments, the input / output (I / O) interface 212 may be configured to connect and / or enable communication with one or more peripheral devices (not shown), including but not limited to additional machine-readable memory devices, diagnostic equipment, and other attachable devices. The I / O interface 212 may include one or more I / O ports that provide a physical connection to the one or more peripheral devices. In some embodiments, the I / O interface 212 may include one or more serial ports.

[0058] In embodiments, the networking unit 214 may include one or more types of networking interfaces that facilitate wired and / or wireless communication between the robot assembly 100 and one or more external devices. That is, the networking unit 214 may operatively connect the keypress controller 200 to one or more types of communications networks 216, which can include a direction interconnection, the Internet, a local area network (“LAN”), a metropolitan area network (“MAN”), a wide area network (“WAN”), a wired or Ethernet connection, a wireless connection, a cellular network, and similar types of communications networks, including combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the keypress controller 200 may communicate with one or more remote / cloud-based servers and / or cloud-based services, such as remote server 218, via the communications network 216.

[0059] In embodiments, the memory 204 can be variously embodied in one or more forms of machine accessible and machine-readable memory. In some embodiments, the memory 204PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO includes a storage device (not shown), which can include, but is not limited to, a non-transitory storage medium, a magnetic disk storage, an optical disk storage, an array of storage devices, a solid-state memory device, and / or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The memory 204 may also include one or more other types of memory, such as dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), static random-access memory (SRAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), Flash memory, and / or the like, as well as combinations thereof. In embodiments, the memory 204 may include one or more types of transitory and / or non-transitory memory.

[0060] The keypress controller 200 can be configured by software components stored in the memory 204 to perform one or more processes of the methods described herein. More specifically, the memory 204 can be configured to store data / information 220 and computer- readable instructions 222 that, when executed by the one or more processors 202, causes the keypress controller 200 to operate the robot assembly 100, including moving the stylus 125 so as to actuate the keys 110 of one or more electronic devices 105 as described herein. Such data 220 and the computer-readable instructions 222 stored in the memory 204 may form a keypress package 224 that may be incorporated into, loaded from, loaded onto, or otherwise operatively available to and from the keypress controller 200. Thus, in some embodiments, the keypress package 224 and / or one or more individual software packages may be stored in a local storage device of the memory 204. However, in other embodiments, the keypress package 224 and / or one or more individual software packages may be loaded onto and / or updated from a remote server or service, such as server 218, via the communications network 216.

[0061] The keypress controller 200 may also include an operating system component 226, which may be stored in the memory 204. The operating system component 226 may be an executable program facilitating the operation of the robot assembly 100. Typically, the operating system component 226 can facilitate access of the VO interface 212, networking unit 214, the user interface 208, and the display 210, and can communicate or control other components of the robot assembly 100.

[0062] Turning now to FIGS. 5 through 11, various aspects of the device cradles 135 are described in accordance with the present disclosure. In particular embodiments, each device cradle 135 is configured to receive and support a corresponding electronic device 105 (shown in FIG. 1) for keypress actuation by the robot assembly 100. For example, with reference to FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view of an exemplaryPATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO device cradle 135 is illustrated. As shown in the example of FIG. 5 A and FIG. 5B, the device cradle 135 can include at least a base 305 and an actuator frame 310.

[0063] In embodiments, the base 305 can form a planar surface having one or more retaining projections 315 extending therefrom. The one or more retaining projections 315 may define a retaining space 320 between the base 305, the retaining projections 315, and the actuator frame 310. In embodiments, the retaining projections 315 and the retaining space 320 can be configured to receive and support a corresponding electronic device 105. As shown in more detail with respect to FIG. 8 A, the actuator frame 310 may be hinged, rotatable, or otherwise moveable in order to allow the electronic device 105 to be received by the retaining space 320.

[0064] In particular embodiments, the base 305 can also include one or more supporting projections 325 extending therefrom, which the electronic device 105 may rest on. In specific embodiments, the supporting projections 325 may raise the electronic device 105 above the planar surface of the base 305 such that access to a backside of the electronic device 105 is preserved. For example, the supporting projections 325 may enable an undermount actuator 330 to contact one or more keys disposed on a backside of the electronic device 105 as discussed in more detail below.

[0065] In embodiments, the actuator frame 310 is configured to at least partially overlay the arrangement 115 of keys 110 of the electronic device 105 when the electronic device 105 is placed in the retaining space 320 of the base 305. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the device cradle 135 is holding an electronic device 105 within its retaining projections 315 and the actuator 310 at least partially overlays the arrangement 115 of keys 110 of the electronic device 105.

[0066] As shown in the examples of FIG. 5 A and FIG. 6, the actuator frame 310 can include a multi-key actuator 335. As described herein, the multi-key actuator 335 at least partially overlays the arrangement 115 of keys 110 of the electronic device 105, and is further configured to actuate a predetermined combination of keys 110 simultaneously. In particular embodiments, the multi-key actuator 335 may actuate the predetermined combination of keys 110 simultaneously when the stylus 125 of the robot assembly 100 applies pressure to a first surface 340 of the multi-key actuator 335 at a first location 345. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the stylus 125 of the robot assembly 100 may apply pressure to the location / region 345 of the multi-key actuator 335 in order to simultaneously actuate a predetermined combination of keys 110.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO

[0067] In some embodiments, the multi-key actuator 335 may also actuate one or more keys 110 of the predetermined combination of keys 110 individually. For example, the multi-key actuator335 may actuate one or more keys 110 of the predetermined combination of keys 110 individually when the stylus 125 of the robot assembly 100 applies pressure to the first surface 340 of the multi-key actuator 335 at one or more location 350, 355 different from the first location 345. As shown in FIG. 7, the stylus 125 of the robot assembly 100 may apply pressure to the locations / regions 350, 355 of the multi-key actuator 335 in order to individually actuate two different keys 110 of the predetermined combination of keys 110.

[0068] In embodiments, the multi-key actuator 335 may also include one or more apertures 360 that enable access to an underlying key 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the aperture 360 of the multi-key actuator 360 has a shape corresponding to a cross-section of the stylus 125, which enables the stylus to directly actuate the underlying key 110 without pressing the multi-key actuator 335.

[0069] With reference to FIG. 8 A and FIG. 8B, the multi-key actuator 335 of the device cradle 135 can include a second surface 365 having one or more key-sensitive protrusions 370 that facilitate the actuation of the predetermined combination of keys 110. In particular embodiments, the key-sensitive protrusions 370 extend from the second surface 365 which is opposite the first surface 340 where the stylus 125 applies pressure to the multi -key actuator 335.

[0070] In embodiments, the one or more key-sensitive protrusions 370 of the multi-key actuator 335 may be configured to physically depress a corresponding key 110 of the predetermined combination of keys 110 of the electronic device 105. That is, the electronic device 105 may include one or more keys 110 that are push button switches and that are actuated by physically depressing a portion of the key 110 by the key-sensitive protrusions 370.

[0071] In further embodiments, one or more of the key-sensitive protrusions 370 of the multi-key actuator 335 may include a conductive surface configured to contact a corresponding key 110 of the predetermined combination of keys 110 of the electronic device 105 in order to actuate said corresponding key 110. That is, the electronic device 105 may include one or more keys 110 that are capacitive, such as a buttons displayed on a touch screen display.

[0072] In particular embodiments, the electronic device 105 may include some combination of different types of keys 110 described herein.

[0073] According to the present disclosure, the predetermined combination of keys 110 can include at least two keys 110 of the arrangement 115 of keys 110 present on the electronicPATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO device 105. In particular embodiments, the predetermined combination of keys 110 can include three or more keys 110 of the arrangement 115 of keys 110 present on the electronic device 105. Although certain multi-key actuators 335 are illustrated in the present disclosure, it should be appreciated that other configurations of the multi-key actuator 335 are possible in order to actuate a different predetermined combination of keys 110.

[0074] For example, with reference to FIGS. 9 A, 9B, and 9C, three additional exemplary actuator frames 400 A, 400B, 400C are illustrated in accordance with further aspects of the present disclosure. Each of the actuator frames 400A, 400B, 400C and the multi-key actuators 405A, 405B, 405C, 410 may be as described herein with respect to actuator frame 310 and multi-key actuator 335, except the multi-key actuators 405A, 405B, 405C, 410 have different configurations designed to actuate a different predetermined combination of keys 110.

[0075] Further, as shown in the example of FIG. 9B, the actuator frame 400B can comprise more than one multi-key actuator 405B, 410, wherein each multi-key actuator 405B, 410 is configured to actuate a different predetermined combination of keys 110. That is, the actuator frames 135, 400A, 400B, 400C are not limited to only one multi-key actuator 335, 405A, 405B, 405C, 410, and it is contemplated that a device cradle 135 can have an actuator frame 310, 400A, 400B, 400C comprising two or more multi-key actuators 335, 405A, 405B, 405C, 410 of different configurations.

[0076] Turning now to FIG. 10 and FIGS. 11A and 11B, additional aspects of the undermount key actuator 330 are described. As shown in the example of FIG. 10, a device cradle 135 is illustrated from a partially exploded perspective to show the undermount key actuator 330. In the example of FIG. 11 A, a top plan view of the undermount key actuator 330 is illustrated. And in the example of FIG. 11B, a cross-section side view taken along the line A-A is illustrated. As seen in these examples, the undermount key actuator 330 is configured to actuate one or more keys (e.g., keys 110) which may be disposed on an underside of the electronic device 105 (i.e., between the electronic device 105 and the base 305). In particular embodiments, the undermount key actuator 330 can include a lever 505 that is depressible by the stylus 125 and a key-sensitive protrusion 510 that actuates a corresponding key 110 in response to the lever 505 being depressed. In embodiments, the key-sensitive protrusion 510 may be configured as described above with respect to the key-sensitive protrusions 370.

[0077] Also provided herein are methods of brining an electronic device 105 from a first operational state to a second operational state by actuating one or more keys 110 of the electronic 105 in a particular sequence and / or combination. As mentioned above, the electronicPATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO devices 105 described herein may be loaded with software and / or firmware that is responsive to a particular sequence and / or combination of keypresses. In embodiments, these electronic devices 105 may be configured to change operational states based on said sequence and / or combination of keypresses. In particular embodiments, these operational states can include a default manufacturer’s state, a safe mode, an unknown state, an idle state, an operational / functioning state, and / or the like.

[0078] Accordingly, in embodiments, the methods of changing the operational state of an electronic device 105 can include operating a stylus 125 of a robot assembly 100 as described above in order to apply pressure to a multi-key actuator 335, 405A, 405B, 405C, 410 of a device cradle 135, 400A, 400B, 400C supporting an electronic device 105 within a retaining space 320 of the cradle 135. In embodiments, the stylus 125 may apply pressure at a first location 345 of the multi-key actuator 335, 405A, 405B, 405C, 410 in order to simultaneously actuate a predetermined combination of keys 110 of the electronic device 105.

[0079] In further embodiments, the method can also include operating the stylus 125 of the robot assembly 100 as described above in order to apply pressure to the multi-key actuator 335, 405A, 405B, 405C, 410 at one or more different locations 350, 355 such that one or more keys 110 of the predetermined combination of keys 110 are actuated individually.

[0080] In still further embodiments, the method can include operating the stylus 125 of the robot assembly 100 as described above in order to apply pressure to one or more additional keys 110 of the electronic device 105 without applying pressure to a multi-key actuator 335, 405A, 405B, 405C, 410.

[0081] It should be appreciated that each of the steps described above may be repeated any number of times and may be performed in any order as necessary in order to actuate the desired sequence or combination of keys 110. Each of these steps may be controlled or automated through a keypress controller 200 described above with respect to FIG. 4.

[0082] It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. It should also be appreciated that terminology explicitly employed herein that also may appear in any disclosure incorporated by reference should be accorded a meaning most consistent with the particular concepts disclosed herein.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO

[0083] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0084] The terms “individual”, “patient”, and “subject” are used herein synonymously and interchangeably unless otherwise specified explicitly or implicitly by the context of its use. In various examples, these terms may refer to a human person, but can also refer to a non-human animal.

[0085] The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

[0086] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0087] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of’ or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e., “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.”

[0088] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO

[0089] As used herein, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Thus, a first element or component discussed below could be termed a second element or component without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept.

[0090] Unless otherwise noted, when an element or component is said to be “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “adjacent to” another element or component, it will be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or intervening elements or components may be present. That is, these and similar terms encompass cases where one or more intermediate elements or components may be employed to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is said to be “directly connected” to another element or component, this encompasses only cases where the two elements or components are connected to each other without any intermediate or intervening elements or components.

[0091] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of’ and “consisting essentially of’ shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

[0092] It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited.

[0093] The above-described examples of the described subject matter can be implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, some aspects can be implemented using hardware, software or a combination thereof. When any aspect is implemented at least in part in software, the software code can be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single device or computer or distributed among multiple device s / computers .

[0094] The present disclosure can be implemented as a system, a method, and / or a computer program product at any possible technical detail level of integration. The computer program product can include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readablePATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the present disclosure.

[0095] The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium can be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium comprises the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.

[0096] Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing / processing devices from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and / or a wireless network. The network can comprise copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and / or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the respective computing / processing device.

[0097] Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present disclosure can be assembler instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, statesetting data, configuration data for integrated circuitry, or either source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, comprising an object oriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++, or the like, and proceduralPATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions can execute entirely on the user’s computer, partly on the user’ s computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user’s computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, comprising a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). In some examples, electronic circuitry comprising, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays (PLA) can execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing state information of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the present disclosure.

[0098] Aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to examples of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions.

[0099] The computer readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an article of manufacture comprising instructions which implement aspects of the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram or blocks.

[0100] The computer readable program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on thePATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0101] The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various examples of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession can, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0102] Other implementations are within the scope of the following claims and other claims to which the applicant can be entitled.

[0103] While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and / or structures for performing the function and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is / are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / orPATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WOClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A cradle for a robot assembly configured to actuate one or more keys of an electronic device having an arrangement of keys, the cradle comprising: a base comprising one or more retaining projections extending from a first face of the base, wherein the one or more retaining projections define a retaining space configured to receive and support the electronic device; and an actuator frame configured to overlay the arrangement of keys of the electronic device when the electronic device is received by the retaining space of the base, wherein the actuator frame comprises a multi-key actuator configured to actuate a predetermined combination of keys.

2. The cradle of claim 1, wherein the multi -key actuator is configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously.

3. The cradle of claim 2, wherein the multi -key actuator is configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously when a stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to a first surface of the multi-key actuator at a first location.

4. The cradle of claim 3, wherein the multi-key actuator is further configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually.

5. The cradle of claim 4, wherein the multi-key actuator is configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually when the stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to the first surface of the multi-key actuator at one or more locations different from the first location.

6. The cradle of claim 1, wherein the predetermined combination of keys includes at least two keys of the arrangement of keys.

7. The cradle of claim 1, wherein the predetermined combination of keys includes at least three keys of the arrangement of keys.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO8. The cradle of claim 3, wherein the multi-key actuator comprises one or more keysensitive protrusions extending from a second surface of the multi-key actuator opposite the first surface.

9. The cradle of claim 8, wherein the one or more key-sensitive protrusions of the multikey actuator are configured to physically depress a corresponding key of the predetermined combination of keys of the electronic device.

10. The cradle of claim 8, wherein each of the one or more key-sensitive protrusions of the multi-key actuator comprise a conductive surface configured to contact a corresponding key of the predetermined combination of keys of the electronic device.

11. The cradle of claim 1, wherein the cradle comprises a first actuator frame having a first multi-key actuator configured to actuate a first predetermined combination of keys, and a second actuator frame having a second multi-key actuator configured to actuate a second predetermined combination of keys, the first predetermined combination of keys being different from the second predetermined combination of keys.

12. A robot assembly configured to actuate one or more keys of an electronic device having an arrangement of keys, the robot assembly comprising: a stylus; and a cradle comprising: a base comprising one or more retaining projections extending from a first face of the base, wherein the one or more retaining projections define a retaining space configured to receive and support the electronic device; and an actuator frame configured to overlay the arrangement of keys of the electronic device when the electronic device is received by the retaining space of the base, wherein the actuator frame comprises a multi-key actuator configured to actuate a predetermined combination of keys.

13. The robot assembly of claim 12, wherein the multi-key actuator is configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously.PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO14. The robot assembly of claim 13, wherein the multi-key actuator is configured to actuate the predetermined combination of keys simultaneously when the stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to a first surface of the multi-key actuator at a first location.

15. The robot assembly of claim 14, wherein the multi-key actuator is further configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually.

16. The robot assembly of claim 15, wherein the multi -key actuator is configured to actuate each key of the predetermined combination of keys individually when the stylus of the robot assembly applies pressure to the first surface of the multi-key actuator at one or more locations different from the first location.

17. The robot assembly of claim 12, wherein the predetermined combination of keys includes at least two keys of the arrangement of keys.

18. The robot assembly of claim 14, wherein the multi-key actuator comprises one or more key-sensitive protrusions extending from a second surface of the multi-key actuator opposite the first surface.

19. A method of bringing an electronic device to a second operational state from a first operational state, the method comprising: operating a stylus of a robot assembly to apply pressure to a multi-key actuator of a cradle supporting the electronic device within a retaining space of the cradle, wherein the stylus applies pressure to a first surface of the multi-key actuator at a first location, wherein the multikey actuator actuates a predetermined combination of keys of the electronic device simultaneously in response to receiving pressure at the first location; and operating the stylus of the robot assembly to apply pressure to one or more keys of the electronic device supported within the retaining space of the cradle, wherein the one or more keys includes at least one key from the predetermined combination of keys, and wherein the one or more keys are actuated individually by applying pressure to the first surface of the multi - key actuator at one or more locations different from the first location.- 1 -PATENTDocket: VFI-2050-WO20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: operating the stylus of the robot assembly to apply pressure to one or more additional keys of the electronic device supported within the retaining space of the cradle, wherein the one or more additional keys are actuated without applying pressure to the multi-key actuator.

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