Electrical audio signal processing systems and devices – Hearing aids – electrical
Reexamination Certificate
2000-11-07
2004-05-18
Kuntz, Curtis (Department: 2643)
Electrical audio signal processing systems and devices
Hearing aids, electrical
C381S326000, C381S328000, C381S330000, C181S130000, C181S135000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06738485
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an apparatus, method, and system for ultra short range communication of voice information. More particularly, this invention relates to an integrated system capable of receiving information, including, but not limited to voice sound information and providing actions based upon the particular information.
2. Problems in the Art
The present invention has various aspects and embodiments that relate to a number of different areas, and solves problems in these areas. The relationship between these different problems will become clear in the context of the present invention.
Wireless Communications
Wireless communications devices continue to proliferate in homes, offices, and other places. These devices include wireless networks, cell phones, remote controls, and numerous other devices. In the future, it is anticipated that even more wireless communication devices will be controlled through wireless communications. Wireless communications often involves the sending and receiving of electromagnetic waves as will be discussed later in greater detail.
Another type of wireless communication that has been used in short range communication is infrared. Infrared communications involves sending and receiving a beam of infrared light between a transmitter and receiver. This technology has been used in various remote controls such as television remotes, remote headphones, and remote mice for computers. Advantages of this type of wireless communication is that interference problems are avoided. One very significant disadvantage is that line-of-sight between the transmitter and the receiver is required. This is acceptable for some short range applications, but not all short range applications, as the line of sight may be blocked or alternatively, movement of a user carrying such a device may be restricted and thus this type of device would be inoperable or undesirable.
Electromagnetic Interference and Electromagnetic Radiation
This increase in wireless communication devices brings with it a number of problems. First, the more devices that use radio communications, the more likely it is that these devices will interfere with one another. This electromagnetic interference is expected to grow in the future due to the sheer number of wireless devices. As these communication devices increase in number, the available spectrum will become more congested and more electromagnetic interference problems will manifest. The problem of electromagnetic interference is well-documented and can have severe consequences. It can result in device misoperation and failure. Electromagnetic interference is especially problematic where proper device operation is critical, such as in hospitals, aircraft, and other environments. Thus, there is a need for a method which allows for devices to be placed in close proximity while preventing interference with one another.
Second, exposure to electromagnetic radiation has been linked with health problems. Electromagnetic fields have been found to be associated with various biological effects. This is a very serious problem that has largely been ignored in the field of wireless communications. The current trends in wireless communications demonstrate that this crucial problem is not being addressed. For example, one current trend in communications is toward utilizing signals with greater power density so that the signal radiates a greater distance and has an improved signal-to-noise ratio.
There is a concern that this increase in radiation will lead to even greater health problems. This is particularly true where earpieces are used. Increased radiation will be absorbed by the head due to the proximity of the earpiece and the prolonged use of the earpiece. The proximity of the device and long periods of use increase the human body's absorption of radiation. There is a further concern that as these devices proliferate even more, greater and greater levels of radiation can result in increased adverse bioeffects. Thus, there is a need in the art for a method which reduces radiation exposure.
Electronic Devices
Another problem relates to increased availability of electronic devices, including personal electronic devices, and increased functionality associated with these devices. Numerous devices now have digital controls for increased functionality. Thus, these devices also have displays and other input/output components. As the functionality of devices increases, the complexity of using the device also increases. This can result in a person spending an increased amount of time learning or relearning how to operate such a device.
Also, such devices often involve hands-intensive operations as well. This hands-intensive operation make current electronic devices unsuitable in many circumstances. For example, driving a car while concurrently using a handheld device has led to multiple car accidents. While a number of devices have attempted to address the problem of hands-intensive operation, this problem is not yet fully resolved. For example, wired systems are inconvenient, as the a vehicle driver may become entangled in the wire. In other contexts, wired systems are also inconvenient as wired systems restrict movement. Other attempts to solve this problem include speakerphone systems. Speakerphone systems are prone to ambient and environmental noise or interference. Thus there is a need for a more efficient and convenient means of operating devices.
Wireless Networks
Related to the proliferation of wireless devices is the concept of wireless networks. Wireless networks provide communication between a number of different devices.
One technology currently in use for electromagnetic wireless communications is the BLUETOOTH™ standard. Named after a Danish king, this is a standard and specification for short-range radio links that can be used to connect a variety of devices, including phones, computers, and other portable devices in order to remove the need for cables. It is believed that there will be a great deal of growth in the number of devices that support this or similar communication standards. Despite any advantages of BLUETOOTH™ networks, problems remain. These problems include radiation exposure and battery life limitations.
Another wireless network standard is the IEEE 802.11 standard for wireless ethernet. This standard and its variations provide for wireless ethernet transmissions. Yet another wireless network standard is the HomeRF shared wireless access protocol used to permit wireless sharing on Internet access, and computer peripherals. This standard may operate with a transmission power of 100 mW and operates at a 2.4 GHz frequency range for distances of up to approximately 50 meters.
There is a need for wireless networks that can be easily and conveniently created. There is a further need for wireless networks that have low power requirements and low radiation emissions.
Network Appliances
Recent attempts have been made to provide remote control of appliances and their devices over a network such as the Internet. This permits remote control to be provided to devices such as Internet appliances or smart appliances. This allows particular devices to be controlled from anywhere, provided that there is an Internet connection to the remote control unit and to the device. One problem with this approach is the accompanying lack of security as control can be provided from anywhere. Security flaws and inherent security problems with Internet communications are well-documented in the art. Another problem with this approach is the overhead required in transmissions, as complete identification information and security information may be required.
Yet another problem with Internet appliances is that it creates an increased need for network services. Each Internet appliance must have access to the Internet. This increased need for network service increases the cost to the end user. It also increases the volume of traffic over the Internet and increases the latency between when a command is issued and
Ensey Brian
Kuntz Curtis
McKee Voorhees & Sease, P.L.C.
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