System and method for communication using ambient communication devices
US9712359B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jul 18, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 12, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA63H2200/00
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Interactive communication devices in communication with a central server support ambient communications between two or more remotely located users. Each device has embedded sensors, lights, and speakers. The sensors allow the device to sense ‘outgoing’ interaction (e.g., a squeeze or hug), and the lights and speakers allow the device to demonstrate ‘incoming’ interaction. A central device is activated when someone interacts with any of the other devices within the network. The other devices in the network—the peripheral devices—are activated both when the interaction originates from the central device as well as from the other peripheral devices. When the server determines that a user has interacted with one of the devices, messages are sent to other devices in the network to reflect the user interaction. The communication devices allow the users in the network to send messages to each other by simply squeezing their respective devices.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.