GB2544262A

GB2544262A - A remotely configurable display

Info

Publication number: GB2544262A
Application number: GB1519011.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Robert Headley William; Headley Laura
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-10-27
Filing date: 2015-10-27
Publication date: 2017-05-17
Also published as: GB201519011D0

Abstract

An electronic display 500 comprising means for storing at least one pre-registered identifier associated with a user equipment 701, means for processing a stimulus and means for enabling a wireless transmitter 704 and/or receiver within the electronic display. Upon validating the stimulus; means for transmitting a data request message 706 over a data network using the identifier associated with the user equipment, the data request message including an identifier of the electronic display, means for receiving at least one user defined data message 710 from the user equipment associated with the pre-registered identifier, means for displaying and/or announcing the received user defined data message 712 to a recipient and means for reducing power of the wireless transmitter and/or receiver. An alternative embodiment has means for storing at least one pre-registered identifier associated with a user equipment, means for receiving a stimulus, means for storing a pre-defined data message and means for automatically transmitting the pre-defined data message [fig. 9].

Description

A Remotely Configurable Display

Field of the invention

This invention relates to an electronic display, and more particularly to a wireless configurable electronic display.

Background

There are a number of situations where a person may want to provide simple, textual or pictorial messages to the general public. An example being an office employee who is off-site at a meeting and wishes to notify his colleagues of this fact and what time he or she is expected back to the office. A scrap of paper stuck to an office door informing others that he or she will return in fifteen minutes is an example of such a message. Who may find this information useful is typically not known at the time the message is written and so the information cannot be targeted to specific individuals. Thus, more focussed communication mechanisms such as an e-mail may not be useful in these sorts of situations. A bigger issue with leaving such messages is that the information may become invalid because of a change in circumstances such as the employee being stuck in a meeting that runs over on time. The only solution to this problem is to physically go and change the message, which may not be practical.

Programmable signs are known, used especially for trains and bus stops, which can receive messages from a central office, indicating when a train may be due or why a delay is occurring, etc. These may be automated to display the anticipated arrival time dependent on the progress of a vehicle. Typically such systems are bespoke for their purposes, with end-to-end communication. Protocols are also known allowing individuals to send messages to personalized signs, for example using RS-232 and Ethernet1, It is also known to use LCD displays, for example a standard LCD TV or Monitor to receive data or messages over TCP/IP using a web interface from a PC and without the need of a server2. Data can be pushed from a variety of sources. These are useful for close viewing in environments such as lobbies, conference rooms and break rooms.

Statement of Invention

Aspects of the present invention are set out in the accompanying claims.

According to one aspect of the present invention, an electronic display is provided comprising means for storing at least one pre-registered identifier associated with a user equipment; means for processing a stimulus; means for enabling a wireless transmitter and/or receiver within the electronic display upon validating the stimulus; means for transmitting a data request message over a data network using the identifier associated with the user equipment, the data request message including an identifier of the electronic display; means for receiving at least one user defined data message from the user equipment associated with the pre-registered identifier; means for displaying and/or announcing the received user defined data message to a recipient; and means for reducing power of the wireless transmitter and/or receiver.

Advantageously, the present invention may only display messages if a validated stimulus has been detected. Otherwise, the invention may remain in a low power mode.

Preferably, the pre-registered identifier may be one of: an IP address, a static or resolvable private address, a Media Access Control, MAC, address.

Preferably, the stimulus may be initially detected by at least one detector means before being processed. The detector means may comprise at least one of: a gyroscope, acoustic sensor, motion sensor, accelerometer, or an acoustic sensor. Advantageously, various detector means may be used individually or in combination to detect a stimulus.

Preferably, the stimulus may be detected in the vicinity of the electronic display.

Preferably, the stimulus may be generated after expiry of a timer.

Preferably, the means for processing the stimulus may determine information relating to the stimulus from the at least one detector means and subsequently determine an action based on the determined information.

Preferably, the action may be one of validating the stimulus or disregarding the stimulus.

Preferably, the action may be determined by comparing the information relating to the stimulus to a set of predetermined conditions. The set of predetermined conditions may include information relating to the time of day, day of the week, facial recognition data, voice recognition data, facial pattern data.

Preferably, the information relating to the stimulus may be transmitted by the display with the data request message.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an electronic display is provided comprising means for storing at least one pre-registered identifier associated with a user equipment; means for receiving a participant defined stimulus; means for storing a participant defined data message; means for automatically transmitting the participant defined data message over a network using the identifier associated with the user equipment, the participant defined data message including an identifier of the electronic display.

Preferably, the electronic display may further comprise means for receiving the user defined message.

Preferably, the means for receiving the user defined message may be a microphone or an acoustic sensor.

Preferably, the electronic display may subsequently receive an acknowledgment message from the user equipment associated with the pre-registered IP address, the acknowledgment message including the IP address of the user equipment, indicating that the transmitted user defined data message was received.

Preferably, the electronic display may further comprise means for receiving at least one user defined data response message from the user equipment associated with the pre-registered IP address, at least one user defined data response message including the IP address of the user equipment, in response to the transmitted data message.

Preferably, the means for receiving the user defined stimulus is one of: a push button, haptic sensor, touchscreen.

Preferably, the electronic display may further comprise means for processing the user defined stimulus and at least one detector means.

Preferably, the means for processing the stimulus may determine information relating to the stimulus from the at least one detector means, and subsequently determine an action based on the determined information.

Preferably, the action may be determined by comparing the information relating to the stimulus to a set of predetermined conditions.

Preferably, the set of predetermined conditions may include at least one of information on the time of day, the day of the week, facial recognition data, voice recognition data, or facial pattern data.

Preferably, the information relating to the stimulus may be transmitted with the participant defined data message.

Advantages

The proposed apparatus has a number of advantages over more conventional methods for displaying information to the general public. For example, the message to be made available to the public can be modified at any time so that if the displayed information becomes invalid, or the user prefers a different message to be shown, a new message can be uploaded to the apparatus almost immediately. The message can also be modified from practically anywhere, provided that the apparatus and user's equipment have access to a data network. Furthermore, visual effects such as a message that scrolls across the apparatus' display could be employed so as to capture the attention of those passing by.

An audio sensor, for example a microphone installed in the electronic display, would provide a number of additional benefits. Members of the general public would be able to create voice messages for the apparatus' owner. These messages could then be transmitted via a data network to the user's equipment so that the owner could listen to them at their leisure. Thus, members of the general public would have a means to provide information to the owner even if he or she does not have the contact details of the owner. This same microphone could be used as an acoustic event detector so that the owner can be notified if there is a knock at the door, or possibly that an electrical device nearby has been activated or is active. For example, the owner left their fan running in their office.

Other sensors such as a gyroscope/accelerometer could be installed in the apparatus, which would allow the apparatus to identify motion, such as a door opening if it were attached to one, or possibly that the apparatus or object it is attached to is being tampered with. The apparatus could be configured so that it sends a notification to the user in the event that motion has been detected so that the user can take action as a result of this event. For instance, a storeowner working in the back of the building could have an apparatus affixed to the store's front door so that when a parcel arrives and the delivery person knocks on the door, a message is shown on the apparatus' display stating that someone will arrive shortly. Meanwhile a notification is sent to the storeowner's mobile device notifying him or her that someone is at the door.

The apparatus may be configured so that its approximate geospatial coordinates can be stored on it. This could be useful for displaying real-time updates as to the time when the user will arrive back to the location of the apparatus. This would be achieved by determining the current location of the user by way of the user's equipment. The distance between the apparatus and its owner can then be calculated by either a software module running on the user's equipment, or using firmware installed on the apparatus' microcontroller. The rate at which the user is approaching the apparatus could be determined by the user's equipment. As a result, the real-time estimated time of arrival could be calculated and displayed on the apparatus.

In addition to textual messages, pictorial or video files may also be transferred to the apparatus from the user's equipment or from equipment authorised by the user to access the apparatus. An example of this advantage would be a grandparent who can use their user equipment to send an image or video and/or message to a grandchild who has an apparatus installed in his or her room.

Introduction to Drawings

An example of the invention will now be described by referring to the accompanying drawings: • Figure 1 illustrates a simplified block diagram of the electronic display (apparatus) according to an aspect of the invention. • Figure 2 illustrates a simplified block diagram of a system, comprising a user equipment, electronic display and an optional server. • Figure 3 illustrates an example of configuring the electronic display according to an aspect of the invention. • Figure 4 illustrates an example flow diagram of messaging within the system of figure 2. • Figure 5 illustrates a simplified block diagram of a display device according to an aspect of the invention. • Figure 6 illustrates a simplified message sequence chart of associating a user equipment with a display device according to an aspect of the invention. • Figure 7 illustrates a simplified message sequence chart between a display device and a UE, according to an aspect of the invention. • Figure 8 illustrates a further simplified block diagram of a display device according to an aspect of the invention.

Figure 9 illustrates a simplified message sequence chart between a display device and a UE, according to an aspect of the invention.

Detailed Description

Referring to Figure 1, the apparatus 100, which may be an electronic display, comprises a display 101; a microcontroller 102; one or a plurality of wireless communication modules 103; one or a plurality of environmental sensors 104 an enclosure 105 and a power source 106.

In a preferred embodiment of the apparatus, the display is a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) with or without a backlight, which is capable of displaying alphanumeric characters as well as black and white, monochromatic or colour images. In another preferred embodiment, the display comprises a two dimensional array of evenly spaced Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). These diodes may emit a single wavelength of light so that the display is monochromatic in nature. However the diodes may also emit a plurality of wavelengths so that the colour of the display can be modified. In another preferred embodiment, the display comprises Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs). OLED displays are particularly interesting because of their low power consumption characteristics. In another preferred embodiment of the apparatus, the display is a touch screen. This feature would allow the user to scribe a message directly onto the apparatus' display. A microcontroller, or similar embedded computing device, is responsible for controlling the apparatus' display. This is achieved through standard electronic hardware communication protocol ports such as Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) or Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) which are designed into most microcontrollers and also many types of commercially-ready displays. In the case of the preferred embodiment comprising a display consisting of an array of LEDs mentioned previously, additional control electronics (not shown in Figure 1) are necessary in order to properly configure the display. One example of such electronics is an 8-bit shift register component. Two of these components are capable of controlling an 8x8 array of LEDs, one register component controls the LED anodes and the second controls the LED cathodes. LED arrays are typically designed so that each row of diodes has all of the anodes commonly connected and each column of diodes has all of the cathodes commonly connected. Each of the eight outputs of one shift register is connected to each row of the array. Likewise each of the eight outputs of a second shift register is connected to each column of the array. In this configuration, each diode in the array is individually addressable so that when a digital '1' is output from a shift register output attached to one of the rows of the LED array, and a digital '0' is output from a shift register output attached to one of the columns, a diode in the array is forward biased so that light is emitted. In the case of an 8x8 array of LEDs, a microcontroller transmits, in series, sixteen bits of data to the shift registers. Once the sixteen bits have been shifted into the desired registers of the shift register components, the output pins are enabled on both components through the use of a latch pin which is also controlled by the microcontroller so that the desired LEDs are illuminated. The data is shifted into the register components using a clock pin connected in parallel between the microcontroller which outputs the clock signal and the clock pins of the register components. Therefore with each clock pulse, the data is shifted by one bit through the registers. The data pins are connected in series between the two components so that the data transmitted from the microcontroller enters the first shift register component. The output of the first shift register is then connected to the input of the second one. The microcontroller is responsible for formatting and delivering the proper signals to the control electronics, using either one of the standard communication protocols or by driving additional control electronics as previously described.

The microcontroller is also responsible for receiving data from one or a plurality of wireless communication modules. Upon receiving this data, the microcontroller transmits the necessary signals to the display so that the user's message data is exhibited. In the case where a considerable amount of data is transmitted to the apparatus, a memory device external to the microcontroller may be needed in order to store the data (not shown in Figure 1).

In a preferred embodiment of the apparatus, a wireless communication module which utilises the WiFi(TM) communication protocol is installed within the apparatus. This module enables the apparatus to be connected to a data network such as a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) and effectively the Internet. This same module may also be used to establish an ad-hoc wireless data network between a user's equipment and the apparatus. This configuration is particularly useful when either the apparatus or the user's equipment, or both, are unable to connect to a WLAN. The apparatus can therefore still be configured to display a user's message data. In another preferred embodiment of the apparatus, a wireless communication module that utilises the Bluetooth(TM) protocol is installed in the apparatus. It is envisioned that the Bluetooth(TM) module's transceiver will be used to enable direct wireless communications between the apparatus and the user's equipment if this protocol is supported by it. This configuration is particularly useful when the apparatus or the user's equipment is unable to connect via WiFi(TM). It is also particularly useful in that during the pair-bonding process of establishing communications between the apparatus and the user's equipment, public and private keys are generated. These keys may be used as a means to encrypt any data transmitted between the apparatus and the user's equipment.

One or a plurality of sensors may be installed in the apparatus so as to provide additional functionality. In a preferred embodiment of the apparatus, an acoustic sensor such as a microphone would allow the apparatus to obtain environmental acoustic data. This would be achieved by connecting the output of the acoustic sensor to an Analogue-to-Digital Converter (ADC) on the microcontroller. The analogue acoustic data is therefore converted into a format that can be transmitted to the user's equipment via a data network, or acted upon by the microcontroller's programming in the event a particular type of noise or noise level is observed.

In another preferred embodiment of the apparatus, a temperature sensor may be incorporated so that the apparatus may be used to display the current temperature at its location, or possibly transmit the data to the user's equipment via a data network. Another possibility is to have the microcontroller's programming act upon the data such that in the event that certain temperature thresholds are exceeded, a particular action is taken such as transmitting the data to the user's equipment so that a notification can be generated for the user. Depending on the model of temperature sensor, the output of the sensor is inputted into either an ADC on the microcontroller or via one of the standard hardware communication ports, such as I2C.

In another preferred embodiment of the apparatus, a gyroscope, magnetometer and/or accelerometer may be installed in the apparatus so that any movement of the apparatus can be determined. The output of this sensor is typically connected to a standard hardware communication port, such as I2C.

In another preferred embodiment of the apparatus, a presence and/or motion detector such as a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR), Passive InfraRed (PIR) detector, ultrasonic range detector, doppler shift detector, or any other suitable means for detecting motion or presence may be installed in the apparatus. Such components can aid in reducing power consumption so that if no presence is detected after a certain period of time, then certain components of the apparatus, such as the display and communication modules may be turned off or at least have their power consumption reduced. Depending on the type and model of presence or motion detector utilised, the output of the device will be inputted into the microcontroller most likely through an ADC input or perhaps a digital one. The microcontroller's programming can then act upon this data as necessary, such as transmitting a notification to the user's equipment via a data network.

Similarly, by monitoring ambient light levels using an LDR, photodiode, photodetector or similar sensor in the vicinity of the apparatus as a function of time, and possibly in conjunction with date and time information from a Real Time Clock (RTC), it may be determined that the location where the apparatus has been installed, is closed for the evening and so a majority of the apparatus' components may be powered down or off in order to save power. Additionally, the RTC may provide functions such as keeping and displaying current time, and setting and displaying alarms and their times. Depending on the type and model of light detector utilised, the output of the device will be inputted into the microcontroller most likely through an ADC input. As for the RTC, this will likely interface with the microcontroller via an I2C or SPI bus connection. The microcontroller's programming can then act upon this data as necessary, such as transmitting a notification to the user's equipment via a data network.

In another embodiment of the apparatus, a digital camera is installed so that its lens is on the same side of the apparatus as the display but faces outward. The camera is connected to the microcontroller using one of the standard hardware communication ports, such as I2C or SPI. A portion of the firmware installed on the microcontroller may be written such that facial patter recognition is possible from the data obtained from the camera. The microcontroller's firmware could then be configured to activate the display only when someone is facing the camera. This is potentially a more efficient means of conserving energy as compared to the presence detection methods mentioned previously which would activate the display for every motion, even if no one is looking at the display.

In a preferred embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus is encased in an enclosure. For the particular embodiment of the apparatus where the display comprises an array of LEDs, the colour of the enclosure may be of a similar colour to that of the light emitted from the diodes. However for all preferred embodiments, the enclosure may be transparent or translucent so that multi-coloured LEDs may be used to illuminate the enclosure so that its colour can be adjusted according the user's preference. One or more openings may be created within the enclosure so as to allow sensors installed inside the enclosure to have direct access to the environment outside of it.

In an embodiment of the apparatus, a transparent or translucent coating or membrane which is tacky to the touch may cover the entire or portions of the apparatus. This coating or membrane will allow the apparatus to be temporarily affixed to a material such as a window so that the display portion may be viewed through both the coating or membrane, if it covers the display, and the window. Similarly, the apparatus may be affixed to a wall or door where the back surface of the apparatus has said coating or membrane applied to it. Similarly, suction cups may be affixed to the enclosure so that the apparatus may be affixed to nearly flat non-porous surfaces. For ferrous surfaces, magnetic strips may be affixed to the enclosure so that the apparatus can be temporarily affixed to these sorts of surfaces. For cloth or fibrous surfaces, one part of a Velcro(TM) pair of materials may be affixed to the enclosure so that it can be affixed and removed from these types of surfaces.

Holes may be fashioned into the enclosure it so that the display can be permanently installed by using screws or nails to affix it to a surface. Partial holes may be fashioned into the enclosure so as to allow for the display to be used in conjunction with a mounting bracket so that this bracket may be permanently affixed to a surface.

In a preferred embodiment of the apparatus, the power source (106) for the apparatus is a battery. This battery may be either rechargeable or non-rechargeable; although for the preferred embodiment, it is rechargeable. For rechargeable batteries comprising lithium polymer or lithium ion, a charging circuit will be installed within the apparatus in order to charge the battery while preventing it from overheating or being overcharged. The charging circuit is to be designed so that when external power is provided to the apparatus, it can charge the battery when necessary and also power the electronic components of the apparatus if necessary. External power may be provided either by means of a physical connection such as a USB cable, or a wireless charging circuit may be designed into the apparatus. This charging circuit comprises an inductive coil and an alternating-to-direct current converter. Thus when the apparatus is in close proximity to a second, matched inductive coil so that the two are coupled, and the second coil is powered with an alternating current, power is transferred from the second coil to the first. This allows the apparatus to be charged without being hindered by a physical connection.

An embodiment of the present invention is a system comprising said apparatus 200, said user's equipment 201, and in one embodiment of the system, a server 202. The system is depicted in Figure 2. The preferred embodiment of the system is as follows. A user's equipment, examples of which may be a cellular or mobile smart phone, a tablet, a laptop or computer, has installed on it a software module 203 that allows the user to generate an alphanumeric or pictorial message or both. This module is responsible for ensuring that the message's data is valid such that it conforms to any system requirements for the data format. The resultant data is optionally encrypted 204 using standard encryption techniques. The key for the encryption is generated when the apparatus is setup for firsttime use which involves a direct communication connection between the apparatus and the user's equipment. Alternatively, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) may be established between the user's equipment and the apparatus so that the data transferred between the two devices is secure.

For all preferred embodiments of the system, the user's equipment 205 and apparatus 206 interact with a data network 207. This data network is wireless 208 in nature and utilises the communication protocols for WiFi(TM) networks, Bluetooth (TM) communication protocols, direct (i.e. ad-hoc) WiFi(TM) connections between the apparatus and the user's equipment, LoRa(TM) communication protocols, or any combination thereof. In an embodiment where a server is part of the system, the data network may be a cellular communication network such as those supported within 2G, 3G, 4G & 5G networks.

Utilising the data network, the apparatus and user equipment may exchange data. In most instances this data is the message data generated by the software module 203 running on the user's equipment. However the apparatus may contain one or a plurality of sensors. This sensor data 209, or notifications derived from the sensor data may be transmitted to the user's equipment via the data network. This data is optionally encrypted 217 prior to being transferred. To temporarily or permanently store data, a means for storing data on both the user's equipment 210 and the apparatus 211 is required.

In a preferred embodiment of the system, both the apparatus 212 and the user's equipment 213 are optionally able to perform authentication and authorisation functionalities. The authentication functionality allows the apparatus to authenticate the identity of the user's equipment that is providing data to it, and vice versa. Authorisation is required, particularly in situations where a plurality of apparatuses may be connected to one or a plurality of users' equipment. Permissions can be set by the primary user of the system so that only certain user's equipment can interact with certain apparatuses. An example of this would be an office manager in an office setting where apparatuses are installed on all of the office and meeting room doors. The office manager can authorise an office member to be able to transmit data to only their office door's apparatus and also the meeting rooms, but no others.

In the event that an authorised user equipment does not have access to a WiFi(TM) network or does not have WiFi(TM) functionality, but does have cellular communication functionality, data may be transferred from the user's equipment to an apparatus, and vice versa, by way of a server which is connected to both a cellular and WiFi(TM) data network 214. Thus data from the user's equipment may be transferred to a server by means of a data network which is capable of receiving data. An example of this would be by way of the Short Messaging Service (SMS) protocol. Once the user's equipment is authenticated 215, the data is stored 216 in the server's database for retrieval by an authorised apparatus. The apparatus can then query the server periodically using the data network to check for stored data. If there is data designated for the apparatus, the server can authenticate the apparatus 215 and then transfer the stored data to it via the data network.

Once the apparatus has received data from either the user's equipment or the server, the data is decrypted 217 if it was originally encrypted. The data is optionally validated 218 to ensure that it meets the system's requirements. Examples of this validity are the maximum number of characters in the data is not exceeded, the data only represents valid characters or symbols, etc. The decrypted data is then configured so that it is properly displayed 219 on the apparatus' display, subject to any constraints established by the user when composing the data message. Examples of such constraints are that the message should flash, scroll across the display, only be displayed for a certain amount of time, etc. The data representing the constraints would be a part of the overall data payload generated by the user's equipment.

As a preferred embodiment of the apparatus is to be battery powered, power saving methods 219 will be required in order to prolong the battery's lifetime. Environmental sensors that generate data 209 will be installed within the apparatus to enable such methods. An example of a power saving method would be when a light sensor senses low levels of light in the environment around the apparatus. It is likely that the location where the apparatus is installed is closed and so many of the apparatus' components, such as its display, can be powered down until such time as the light levels increase to a pre-defined level.

An embodiment of the present invention is a method for remotely configuring the previously described apparatus and its system. The method, depicted in Figure 3, typically begins with message data being generated by a user on a user's equipment using a software module 300 installed on said equipment. This data may consist of alphanumeric characters and/or symbols and/or pictures and/or video files. The software module may also be used to validate the message data so that it adheres to the system requirements. Examples of validity requirements are the maximum number of characters in the data is not exceeded, the data only represents valid characters or symbols, etc.

The data is then optionally encrypted 301 so that it cannot be modified by unauthorised users while in transit to the apparatus. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the encryption occurs within the software module where the message data is generated.

If the user's equipment is connected to a data network which utilises the communication protocols for WiFi(TM) networks, local area networks which utilise Bluetooth(TM) communication protocols, direct (i.e. ad-hoc) WiFi(TM) connections between the apparatus and the user's equipment, or any combination thereof, the data is queued for retrieval by the apparatus 302 at its discretion. If, however, the user's equipment is only connected to a cellular network which is capable of transmitting data such as in the case of the Short Messaging Service (SMS) protocol, then in one embodiment of the present invention, a server may be used to temporarily store the data generated by the user's equipment in a database. This server also provides a means to interconnect different types of data networks. For example, the server is capable of receiving and transmitting data on both cellular networks as well as WiFi(TM) networks which are connected to the Internet. Communication is established between the user's equipment 303 and the server 304, during which the user's equipment is optionally authenticated 305. The data is then transmitted to the server 306, 307 via the cellular data network. As part of the transmission process, the data is formatted so that it complies with the communication protocol used by the data network.

On the server, the received data 307 is stored in a database on the server 308. During this time, an acknowledgement is optionally transmitted to the user's equipment 309 as confirmation that the message has been successfully received by the server. The received acknowledgement 310 by the user's equipment may then optionally generate a notification to the user that the message has been received and/or it may trigger the termination of the communication link with the server 311, 312.

Meanwhile on the apparatus, the wireless communication module is enabled 313. A preferred embodiment of the apparatus is battery powered and so by disabling or at least reducing the transmit and/or receive power of the module, power is conserved. The rate at which the module is enabled or disabled, or the power transmitted and/or received by the module may be adjusted to suit the needs of the user or the system.

Once the communication module is enabled, a connection to the user's equipment is attempted by way of the data network. If the user's equipment is connected to the data network, a connection is established with it 314, 315. The user's equipment authenticates the apparatus 316. The user's equipment is then queried by the apparatus in order to determine if there is any queued data that requires retrieval. If there is not, the communication between the apparatus and the user's equipment is terminated 317, 318 and the wireless communication module on the apparatus is optionally disabled 319 or its transmit/receive power reduced.

If, however, there is queued data on the user's equipment that is to be retrieved by the apparatus, the data is transmitted to the apparatus 320 from the user's equipment 321 via the data network. An acknowledgment may optionally be sent from the apparatus 322, 323 to the user's equipment. Communication may optionally be terminated with the user's equipment 318 and the wireless communication module is optionally disabled 319 or its power decreased. If an acknowledgement is not transmitted back to the user's equipment, the communication with the apparatus may optionally be terminated and the wireless communication module disabled or its transmit/receive power reduced.

The data on the apparatus, if encrypted, is decrypted. The data is processed 324 by the microcontroller so that it is displayed correctly on the apparatus' display 325.

If the user's equipment is not accessible via the data network when the apparatus attempts a connection, the apparatus attempts to establish a connection with the server via the data network instead. Once communication is established between the apparatus 326 and server 327, the apparatus is optionally authenticated by the server 328. The apparatus then queries the server for any data that has been stored for transmission to the apparatus. If there is no stored data meant for the apparatus, the communication is optionally terminated between the apparatus 318 and the server 329. However, if there is data stored on the server intended for the apparatus, the data is transmitted from the server 330 to the apparatus 320 via the data network. The apparatus may optionally transmit an acknowledgement 322 of the receipt of the data back to the server 331 after which communication is optionally terminated between the server 329 and the apparatus 318 and the wireless communication module on the apparatus is optionally disabled 319 or its power decreased. The server may optionally transmit the acknowledgment to the user's equipment via the cellular data network, or store the acknowledgement in the server's database for retrieval by the user's equipment once it has obtained a data network connection. If an acknowledgement is not transmitted back to the server, the communication with the apparatus may optionally be terminated and the wireless communication module disabled or its power reduced.

On the apparatus, the data, if encrypted, is decrypted. The data is processed by the microcontroller 324 so that it is displayed correctly on the apparatus' display 325.

In another preferred embodiment of the method for the present invention, the apparatus may inform the user's equipment of an event detected by the apparatus, as depicted in Figure 4. As described previously, the apparatus may contain one or a plurality of sensors which are designed to measure a particular aspect of the environment (e.g. sound, temperature, humidity, light, motion, etc.) surrounding the apparatus. When an event is detected 400, the data is optionally encrypted 401 and stored by the microcontroller. The wireless communication module is enabled 402 if it has been established by the user that the event is to generate a notification on the user's equipment. An event, as it is meant here, is a quantitative threshold established for a particular sensor so that if this user-defined threshold is exceeded, an event has occurred. An example of a user-defined threshold for a temperature sensor would be a minimum temperature of 10°C. An example of an event would be one where the temperature sensor measures a temperature of 9°C, and so that the threshold has been exceeded.

With the wireless communication module enabled, the apparatus determines if the user's equipment is connected to the data network. If it is, then communication is established between the apparatus 403 and the user's equipment 404 via the data network. The apparatus is optionally authenticated 405 by the user's equipment to ensure that data received from the apparatus is valid. Once the user's equipment has authenticated the apparatus, the data is transmitted from the apparatus 406 to the user's equipment 407 via the data network. Once the data has been received by the user's equipment, an acknowledgement 408 is optionally transmitted from the user's equipment 408 to the apparatus via the data network. Communication between the apparatus 410 and the user's equipment 411 is optionally terminated. The wireless communication module on the apparatus is optionally disabled 412 or the power is decreased so as to save power.

The data received from the apparatus 407 is decrypted if it has been encrypted 413. The software module which was previously used to generate message data on the user's equipment in Figure 3 is used to generate a notification for the user 414 regarding the event that was registered by the apparatus.

In the event that the user's equipment is not connected to the data network, and a server has been established as part of the system, communication is established between the apparatus 415 and said server 416. It is assumed that both the server and the apparatus are connected to the data network. The server optionally authenticates 417 the apparatus to ensure that the data received from the apparatus is valid. The data is transmitted from the apparatus 406 to the server 418 via the data network where it is stored in a database. An acknowledgement is optionally transmitted from the server 419 to the apparatus 409. Communications between the apparatus 410 and sever 420 is optionally terminated. The wireless communication module on the apparatus is optionally disabled 412 or the power is decreased so as to save power.

Once the data has been received and stored in the server's database, the data is formatted so that it is compatible with a cellular data network protocol such as SMS. The data is then transmitted from the server 421 to the user's equipment 422 via the cellular data network. The data received from the server is decrypted if it has been encrypted 413. The software module which was previously used to generate message data on the user's equipment in Figure 3 is used to generate a notification for the user 414 pertaining to the event that was registered by the apparatus. In a particular embodiment of the method, an SMS may be generated by the user's equipment acknowledging the receipt of the server's so as to improve the Quality of Service (QoS) of the system. This acknowledgment is optionally transmitted back to the apparatus the next time the apparatus and server establish communications.

Aspects above have been described in combination with a server. It should be noted that a server is not essential for the operation of the invention. Further aspects, detailed below, discuss operation without requiring use of a server.

Referring to Figure 5, a simplified block diagram of a display device 500 according to an aspect of the invention is illustrated. Display device 500 may comprise a visual display such as an LED backlit display, or any other suitable display discussed previously.

The display device 500 comprises at least one detector means 502 situated on the exterior of the display device 500. For example, the detector means 502 may be a push button 504, a motion sensor 506 or a facial pattern detector 508. Other non-limiting examples may include a gyroscopic sensor, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, light detector, temperature sensor, presence detector, motion detector and facial recognition or facial pattern recognition sensors. The detector means 502 is operably coupled to a stimulus processor 510, which is arranged to receive and process information received from the detector means 502. Alternatively, or in combination, the stimulus processor 510 may receive a stimulus in the form of a timing signal from timer module 512.

Display device 500 further comprises at least one memory 514, which is arranged to store various information relating to the display device. For example, the memory 514 may store information relating to the IP address of the display device 500 in the form of an identifier. The memory 514 may also store information relating to any paired devices, such as identifiers of paired user equipment devices.

In an example, the memory 514 may store a static or resolvable private address as an identifier of paired user equipment devices and/or the display device. These types of addresses are typically associated with the Bluetooth(TM) protocol. A static address is a randomly generated number that can be changed every time the device powers up, or can be the same for its entire lifetime. A resolvable private address is typically generated from some form of security key and a random number. These addresses tend to be highly dynamic so that the device cannot be uniquely identified or tracked by another device. The security key, or security token, may also be stored in the memory 514. Furthermore, in an example, the memory 514 may store a Media Access Control, MAC, address as an identifier of the display device 500 and/or paired user equipment devices. A MAC address is one of the most common ways of uniquely identifying a device on a network. It is used extensively in Ethernet(TM)and WiFi(TM) networks.

Display device 500 further comprises a wireless communication module 516, in the form of wireless receiver and transmitter (or transceiver) modules. The wireless communication module 516 is arranged to facilitate wireless connection to a network, such as the Internet. This module is responsible for configuring and transmitting/receiving data over a wireless network such that the necessary network protocols are adhere to, such as the framing/appending/analysing/removing the necessary packet header data from the original data as prescribed by the network protocol used by the system. Wireless communication module 516 can be controlled via communications controller 518 although this may be the same component that comprises the display module driver and stimulus processor. Communications controller module 518 can control aspects of the wireless communication module 516, such as enabling/disabling and reducing/increasing power of the wireless communication module 516. In the description, references to enabling and disabling the wireless communication module 516 cover instances where the wireless communication module 516 is powered up/down from a low power mode, and switched on and off.

Display device 500 also includes a display driver module 520 for controlling aspects of the visual display, and a power supply 522. Power supply 522 allows display device 500 to operate via mains power and/or via a battery.

Prior to discussion of an example of operation of the display device 500, an example pairing operation will first be discussed with reference to figure 6.

Referring to Figure 6, a simplified message sequence chart of a pairing operation is illustrated. In this example, the pairing operation is between a user equipment 602 and a display device 604, such as the display device of Figures 5 and 8. User equipment 602 has its own unique identifier, which may, for example, correspond to an IP address for communication protocols that adhere to the Internet Protocol (IP) or perhaps a static or resolvable private address as in the case of the Bluetooth(TM) protocol, or a MAC address. In this example, the unique identifier of UE 602 corresponds to an 'address A'. Similarly, display device 604 also has its own unique identifier. In this example, the unique identifier of display device 604 corresponds to an 'address B'. Initially, the user of the display device 604, which in this example is also the user of user equipment 602, initiates a pairing procedure, wherein the display device 604 transmits an identifier request message 606 to the UE 602. The identifier request message 606 also contains the unique identifier, 'address B' of the display device 604. If the pairing request is accepted, the UE 602 stores the identifier of the display device 604 and responds by transmitting an acknowledgment message 608 including the identifier, 'address A' of UE 602. The display device 604 stores the identifier of the UE 602, for example in memory 614 of Figure 5. After the messaging sequence has been completed, the display device 604 and the UE 602 are paired.

Initial pairing may be performed by a short-range wireless interconnection protocol, such as Bluetooth(TM). Once paired, the display device 604 and the UE 602 may be able to communicate with each other via a wireless connection.

The display device 604 may be able to 'pair' with a number of UE devices and store the relevant information in its memory. Thus the display device 604 may communicate with a number of UEs over a data network simultaneously.

Optionally, the UE 602 may initiate the pairing procedure with the display device 604. In this example, the messaging will be reversed.

Referring to Figures 5 and 7, an example operation of the display device 500 will be described.

Initially, display device 500 may be in a low power mode 702. In this example, the low power mode 702 refers to at least the wireless communication module 516 being in a 'standby mode'. It is envisaged that other modules of the display device 500 may also be in a 'standby mode' at the same time. At least one detector means 502, such as motion sensor 506 may be in a normal operating mode at this time. Furthermore, the visual display of the display device 500 may also be operational, such that user defined information can be made publicly available.

In this example, stimulus processor 510 processes a received stimulus. The stimulus may have originated from timer module 512 and/or at least one detector means 502. In this example, the stimulus originated from detector means 506. Motion relating to movement within the vicinity of the display device 500 may be detected by the detector means 506 and relayed to the stimulus processor 510. In response, the wireless communication controller 518 may enable the wireless communication module 516 if, for example, the stimulus was valid. In another embodiment, the stimulus processor 510 may assume that all received stimuli are valid. Optionally, the stimulus processor 510 may process the received stimulus with information stored in memory 514. For example, if the stimulus processor 510 determines that it is past 5:30pm, the stimulus processor may disregard the received stimulus. In this case, the wireless communication controller may not enable/power up the wireless communication module 516. In another example, the stimulus processor 510 may receive facial pattern data, which the stimulus processor 510 compares with stored facial pattern data to determine a potential match, before the wireless communication module 516 is enabled.

In another example, a combination of stimuli from the detector means 502 may be used by the stimulus processor 510 to determine whether the stimulus is valid.

If the display device 500 determines that the stimulus is valid, the display device may power up one or more modules from a 'standby mode'. For example, display device 500 may power up 704 in response to valid stimulus and subsequently enable wireless communication module 516. The display device 500 may subsequently transmit a data request message 706 to UE 702. The display device 500 transmits the data request message 706 to the UE 702 using the identifier from the previous pairing process. In this example, the data request message 706 includes the identifier 'address A' of the UE 701, and the identifier of the display device, for example 'address B'.

The UE 701 receives the data request message 706 and determines that it was sent by display device 500 by recognising the identifier of the display device 500. This has an advantage of indicating which display device is requesting information if, for example, the UE 701 is paired to a number of display devices.

Subsequently, the UE 701 determines whether there are any stored user defined data messages waiting to be 'pulled' by the display device 500. For example, a user of the user equipment 701 may have previously stored a message 708 in a memory of the UE 701 indicating that the user would be 'back at 6.00pm'. The UE 701 determines that this message 708 is for the display device 500, for example by recognising that the identifier of the display device 500 matches an identifier included with the stored message 708. Subsequently, the UE 701 may transmit a data message 710 including the stored message 708 to the display device 500. The UE 701 transmits the data message 710 to the display device corresponding to 'address B', and includes the UE identifier 'address A' in the message. Subsequently, the display device 700 receives the data message 710 via wireless communication module 516 and passes the stored message 708 to display driver module 520. In this example, the stored message 708 is displayed 712 via the display device's 500 visual display. Alternatively, or in combination, the display driver module 520 may relay an audio message. In both cases, the display device 500 broadcasts the stored message 708 to members of the public. The stored message 708 may be broadcast for a predefined period of time before the wireless communication controller 518 powers down at least the wireless communication module 516 and optionally the visual display and one or more detector means.

In the example discussed above, it has been assumed that at least one detector means 502 is in powered up mode (normal mode) in order to detect a stimulus.

In another example, detector means 502 may also be in a 'standby mode'. At a point in time where timer module 512 initiates a stimulus to stimulus processor 510, one or more detector means 502 may power up to a normal operating mode. In an example, the display device 500 may be mounted on a door, for example a door of the user's office. The detector means 502 may comprise a vibration sensor capable of detecting a member of the public/work colleague that knocks on the user's door. In response, the stimulus processor 510 may determine that the received stimulus is valid and proceed as discussed in the above mentioned examples. Optionally, the stimulus processor 510 may receive or enable one or more further detector means 502 during the determination of whether the stimulus is valid. For example, on receiving vibration information, the stimulus processor 510 may enable a further detector means, for example facial pattern detector 508. The stimulus processor 510 may receive facial pattern information and compare this to information stored in memory 514. If the stimulus processor 510 determines that the facial pattern information is valid, the procedure as disclosed in the above mentioned examples may be carried out.

Optionally, the information relating to the stimulus may be transmitted with the data request message 706 to the UE 701. The UE 701 may subsequently use this extra information to determine if there is a stored message that corresponds with the extra information in combination with the data request message. Alternatively, or in combination, the UE may signal this extra information to the user of the UE 701.

Advantageously, messaging may be effected between the UE 701 and display device 701 without a server.

Referring to Figure 8, a simplified block diagram of a further display device 800 is illustrated according to an aspect of the invention. In this example, display device 800 comprises similar components/modules as the display device described above in relation to figures 5-7. For clarity, modules of figure 8 that are similar to those already described previously will not be described with respect to figure 8.

In this example, display device 800 is a reduced functionality display device compared to Figure 5, comprising a single detector means 804 and a receiver means 806. The detector means 804 is a push button, and the receiver means 806 is a microphone and/or a visual/audio capture device.

Pairing of the display device 800 follows the same procedure as illustrated for display device 500 in Figure 6.

Operation of display device 800 will now be described with respect to figures 8 and 9.

Initially, the display device 800 may be configured to broadcast a user defined message to the public. This user defined message may relate to an estimated time of arrival of the user back to the locality of the display device 800. For example, if the display device 800 is located at the user's office, the message may relate to an estimated time of arrival of the user back to the user's office. A participant, for example a member of the public, co-worker, may wish to communicate a message to the user before the user has returned to the office. In an example, the user may be a university lecturer, and the participant may be a student.

The student may utilise detection means 804 of the display device, for example depress a button on the display device 800. Upon receiving a stimulus 902, the display device 800 may prompt the user to record a message. The message may be an audio and/or visual message. The display device 800 may automatically store 904 a copy of the student's message. The display device may automatically transmit 906 the student's data message over a data network using the IP address associated with the user equipment (defined in a previous pairing operation). The transmitted message including the student's data message may include an identifier of the electronic display. The identifier may be the IP address of the display device 800.

The UE 901 receives the message 906 and extracts the student's data message. The UE 901 may notify the user that the data message 906 has been received.

Optionally, the UE 901 may subsequently transmit an acknowledgment message 908 back to the display device 800. The display device 800 may broadcast 910 the acknowledgment message to the student.

Optionally, or additionally, to transmission of the Ack message 908, the UE 901 may transmit at least one user defined response message 912 to the display device 800, wherein the display device 800 may subsequently broadcast 914 the user defined response message to the student.

Advantageously, the display device 800 allows a participant to communicate with the user, without the user having to provide his or her contact details.

In an optional example, the display device 800 may comprise a number of detector means as described with respect to the detector means 500 of Figure 5. Thus, in an optional example, the stimulus processor 810 may determine information relating to the stimulus (e.g. motion data, voice data, facial recognition data, and facial pattern data) and subsequently determine an action based on the determined information. For example, if the display device 800 recognises the participant, it may allow the participant to record a message for the user. Otherwise, the display device may prevent the participant from recording a message. Advantageously, this may prevent unwanted or hoax messages being transmitted by the display device to the user.

Optionally, the display device 800 may determine an action based on a set of predetermined conditions. For example, the display device 800 may determine that the action should be to ignore the participant's request if it is past a certain time.

Optionally, the display device 800 may enable its wireless communication module 816 after receiving a stimulus. This may reduce power consumption when the device does not need to connect to the network.

Aspects of the invention relate to a display device that is arranged to display/broadcast information in the vicinity of the display device. In an example, the display device may be arranged to display user defined information for a predetermined time period. For example, the display device may be arranged to display/publicly broadcast user defined information from 9am to 5pm. During this time, the display device may be partially powered down in order to save power. The wireless communications module(s) may be powered down until a stimulus is detected, which may be an internal or external stimulus.

It is envisaged that in some aspects of the invention, the external parts of the display device (visible to a participant) may simply comprise a display and at least one detector means. In response to detecting a stimulus, the display device automatically powers up the wireless communication module 816 and requests messages from a paired UE over a data connection. 'Pulling' messages in this way means that power intensive applications relating to transmitting and receiving messages to update the display occur when a stimulus is detected, i.e. a member of the public/participant is receiving the broadcasted information from the display device.

In some other aspects of the invention, it is envisaged that the external parts of the display device may simply comprise a detector means and a receiver means. The detector means may be a push button and the receiver means may be a voice recorder. Upon depressing the button, a participant may automatically be able to send a data message to the user without requiring the user's contact details. Advantageously, the user does not have to give out contact details in order to receive a data message. Further, an advantage is that the user's contact details, which have not been given out, cannot be used for other purposes, such as hoax calls. Generally, leaving a message with contact details could potentially lead to the contact details being used for unscrupulous purposes. In a preferred example, the invention may comprise a dedicated display and a means for detecting a stimulus. The dedicated display may not comprise additional functionality other than that required to fulfil aspects described above.

The Applicant notes that features disclosed in relation to individual examples of the invention in the above mentioned specification may be combined with other features from other individual examples. In effect, optional features are compatible with all disclosed examples of the invention.

Claims

Claims:

1. An electronic display (500), comprising: means (514) for storing at least one pre-registered identifier associated with a user equipment; means (510) for processing a stimulus; means (518) for enabling a wireless transmitter and/or receiver (516) within the electronic display (500), upon validating the stimulus; means (516) for transmitting a data request message over a data network using the identifier associated with the user equipment, the data request message including an identifier of the electronic display; means (516) for receiving at least one user defined data message from the user equipment associated with the pre-registered identifier; means (520) for displaying and/or announcing the received user defined data message to a recipient; and means (518) for reducing power of the wireless transmitter and/or receiver.

2. The electronic display of claim 1, wherein the pre-registered identifier is one of: an Internet Protocol, IP, address, a static or resolvable private address, a Media Access Control, MAC, address.

3. The electronic display of claim 1, wherein the stimulus is initially detected by at least one detector means before being processed.

4. The electronic display of claim 3, wherein the stimulus is detected in the vicinity of the electronic display.

5. The electronic display of claim 1, wherein the stimulus is generated after expiry of a timer.

6. The electronic display of claim 3, wherein the at least one detector means comprises at least one of: a gyroscope, acoustic sensor, motion sensor, accelerometer, or an acoustic sensor.

7. The electronic display of claim 6, wherein the means for processing the stimulus determines information relating to the stimulus from the at least one detector means, and subsequently determines an action based on the determined information.

8. The electronic display of claim 7, wherein the action is one of: validating the stimulus, disregarding the stimulus.

9. The electronic display of claims 7 or 8, wherein the action is determined by comparing the information relating to the stimulus to a set of predetermined conditions.

10. The electronic display of claim 9, wherein the set of predetermined conditions includes at least on of information on: time of day, day of the week, facial recognition data, voice recognition data or facial pattern data

11. The electronic display of claim 7, wherein the information relating to the stimulus is transmitted with the data request message.

12. An electronic display (800), comprising: means (814) for storing at least one pre-registered identifier associated with a user equipment; means (806) for receiving a participant defined stimulus; means (814) for storing a participant defined data message; means (816) for automatically transmitting the participant defined data message over a data network using the identifier associated with the user equipment, the participant defined data message including an identifier of the electronic display.

13. The electronic display of claim 12, wherein the pre-registered identifier is one of: an Internet Protocol, IP, address, a static or resolvable private address, a Media Access Control, MAC, address.

14. The electronic display of claim 12, wherein the means for receiving is a microphone or an acoustic sensor.

15. The electronic display of claim 12, further comprising receiving an acknowledgment message from the user equipment associated with the pre-registered IP address, the acknowledgment message including the IP address of the user equipment, indicating that the transmitted participant defined data message was received.

16. The electronic display of any one of claims 12-15, further comprising means for receiving at least one user defined data response message from the user equipment associated with the preregistered IP address, the at least one user defined data response message including the IP address of the user equipment, in response to the transmitted data message.

17. The electronic display of any one of claims 12-15, wherein the means for receiving the user defined stimulus is one of: a push button, haptic sensor, touchscreen.

18. The electronic display of claim 12, further comprising a means for processing the user defined stimulus and at least one detector means.

19. The electronic display of claim 18, wherein the means for processing the stimulus determines information relating to the stimulus from the at least one detector means, and subsequently determines an action based on the determined information.

20. The electronic display of claim 19, wherein the action is one of: validating the stimulus, disregarding the stimulus.

21. The electronic display of claims 19 or 20, wherein the action is determined by comparing the information relating to the stimulus to a set of predetermined conditions.

22. The electronic display of claim 21, wherein the set of predetermined conditions includes at least on of information on: time of day, day of the week, facial recognition data, voice recognition data.

23. The electronic display of claim 19, wherein the information relating to the stimulus is transmitted with the participant defined data message.

24. The electronic display of claim 12, further comprising means for enabling the wireless transmitter and/or receiver upon receiving the stimulus.