Portable Audiovisual Device Motion and Contact Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current home networking technologies limit the ability to access and utilize broadband Internet connectivity for Internet-enabled entertainment and services beyond the vicinity of a centralized hub device, requiring expensive hardware or subscription plans, and lack flexible, consumer-friendly solutions for leveraging available bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
A system of personalized audiovisual devices, such as the CHUMBY device, that are Internet-enabled, wireless, and configurable via a service provider, allowing users to access and personalize widgets and content across a network, with features like motion and contact detection, and a flexible housing for user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centralized hub device is used to provide Internet connectivity, then broadband Internet access is available, but users are constrained to remain proximate to the hub device and require expensive hardware or subscription plans
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized hub system is segmented into multiple independent portable devices distributed throughout the home. Each device contains necessary processing capabilities (CPU, memory, display, audio) and can independently access Internet services, eliminating the need for a single complex hub and allowing users to access services at any location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical constraint of being near a centralized hub with wireless communication technology. Portable devices use wireless networks (WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular) to connect to the Internet, substituting the mechanical proximity requirement with electromagnetic signal transmission.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless networking technology is used to extend Internet access, then users can access services beyond the hub vicinity, but device mobility and flexibility are limited without additional expensive hardware
Solution Approach 1:
Each portable device is designed as a universal platform capable of multiple functions: Internet browsing, media playback, communication, gaming, and sensor integration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized devices and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining location flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic wireless connectivity, allowing devices to move freely within coverage areas and automatically reconnect to networks as they move. The portable devices adapt to changing environmental conditions (signal strength, available networks) to maintain continuous Internet access.
3Adaptability or versatility
If motion detection and contact sensing features are added to enable innovative interaction, then user interaction capabilities are enhanced, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Motion sensors and contact sensors operate in periodic or event-driven modes rather than continuously. The system activates sensors only when motion is detected or when interaction is anticipated, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining enhanced interaction capabilities during active use.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device automatically manages sensor data and interaction logic without requiring constant user intervention. The system self-adjusts sensor sensitivity, activation thresholds, and power management parameters based on usage patterns and environmental conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for location, motion, and contact detection and tracking in a portable networked device are disclosed. A portable device may include a motion detection unit including an accelerometer for detecting accelerations in one or more axes. Signals associated with the detected motion are processed to generate estimates of device acceleration, velocity, and relative and absolute locations. Additional processing may be performed to detect user gestures or other user input relevant to portable device control. Particular motion or vibrational characteristics may be also be detected and used by other processes in the portable device.