US20150022324A1 - Customized Content for Electronic Devices - Google Patents
Customized Content for Electronic Devices Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150022324A1 US20150022324A1 US14/311,883 US201414311883A US2015022324A1 US 20150022324 A1 US20150022324 A1 US 20150022324A1 US 201414311883 A US201414311883 A US 201414311883A US 2015022324 A1 US2015022324 A1 US 2015022324A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- electronic device
- content
- package
- sensor
- packaged
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
- G06K7/00—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns
- G06K7/10—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation
- G06K7/10009—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation sensing by radiation using wavelengths larger than 0.1 mm, e.g. radio-waves or microwaves
- G06K7/10118—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation sensing by radiation using wavelengths larger than 0.1 mm, e.g. radio-waves or microwaves the sensing being preceded by at least one preliminary step
- G06K7/10128—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation sensing by radiation using wavelengths larger than 0.1 mm, e.g. radio-waves or microwaves the sensing being preceded by at least one preliminary step the step consisting of detection of the presence of one or more record carriers in the vicinity of the interrogation device
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1626—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1628—Carrying enclosures containing additional elements, e.g. case for a laptop and a printer
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/18—Packaging or power distribution
- G06F1/181—Enclosures
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F9/00—Arrangements for program control, e.g. control units
- G06F9/06—Arrangements for program control, e.g. control units using stored programs, i.e. using an internal store of processing equipment to receive or retain programs
- G06F9/44—Arrangements for executing specific programs
- G06F9/445—Program loading or initiating
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
- G06K7/00—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns
- G06K7/10—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation
- G06K7/10009—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation sensing by radiation using wavelengths larger than 0.1 mm, e.g. radio-waves or microwaves
- G06K7/10366—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation sensing by radiation using wavelengths larger than 0.1 mm, e.g. radio-waves or microwaves the interrogation device being adapted for miscellaneous applications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H36/00—Switches actuated by change of magnetic field or of electric field, e.g. by change of relative position of magnet and switch, by shielding
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to electronic devices and more specifically, to providing content to electronic devices.
- Electronic devices such as digital music players, video players, smart phones, mobile gaming devices, laptops, and so on may include a variety of content such as music files, video files, applications, and so on. These electronic devices may often be sold in stores, online, or other retailers in packaging.
- the packaging may protect the electronic devices from damage during shipping, storage, and so on, as well as enhance attractiveness to consumers and/or reduce the likelihood of shoplifting.
- the content on the device Prior to a particular electronic device being removed from its packaging, the content on the device typically is not customized. In other words, every electronic device of a particular model, if it includes any content, usually includes the same content. This is because it may be extremely time consuming and prohibitively expensive to customize content for each specific electronic device prior to packaging, as each device need to be accessed individually, slowing manufacturing, shipping, and other processes.
- Examples of embodiments described herein may take the form of a method for providing customized content to an electronic device.
- the method may include activating the electronic device through a package that substantially surrounds the electronic device, without substantially damaging or removing the package. Once the device is activated, connecting the electronic device to content and providing the content to the electronic device without substantially damaging or removing the package.
- inventions may take the form of a method for individualizing content on an electronic device enclosed with a package.
- the method may include connecting a data connector in the electronic device through the package. Once the data connector has been connected to the electronic device, transferring content from a computer to the electronic device and disconnecting the electronic device from the data connector.
- Still other embodiments may include a system for packaging an electronic device.
- the system includes an electronic device and a package.
- the electronic device includes a processor and an enclosure at least partially surrounding the processor and defining an input port.
- the package substantially surrounds the electronic device and at least partially protects debris from encountering the electronic device.
- the package includes an access aperture substantially aligned with the input port, where the access aperture is configured to receive a connector for communicating with the electronic device.
- FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary electronic device.
- FIG. 1B is a block diagram of the electronic device of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in a package.
- FIG. 2B is a bottom plan view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package.
- FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package and including a temporary cover over an access aperture in the package.
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package with a connector positioned substantially beneath the access aperture.
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package with the connector inserted through the access aperture and connected to the electronic device.
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the package for enclosing the electronic device.
- FIG. 4B is a bottom plan view of the package enclosing the electronic device of FIG. 4A .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 4A with the connector in communication with the electronic device.
- FIG. 6A is another embodiment of an electronic device in a package.
- FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a controller positioned over the package and the electronic device of FIG. 6A .
- FIG. 7 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for providing custom content to the electronic device.
- FIG. 8 is a diagram of a user using a second computing device to provide custom content and a label for the electronic device.
- a package for electronic devices includes a connection or access aperture that may substantially aligned with an input port or other port for the device.
- the access aperture is configured to receive a connector therethrough, and the connector may electronically connect to the device through the packaging.
- the package may include an embedded or temporary connector that may include a connection port accessible through the packaging.
- the temporary connector may be made of a relatively disposable or inexpensive material, one example of which is cardboard with copper wiring attached thereto, or another similar type of temporary connector mechanism.
- the temporary connector may be positioned in the packaging so as to be in communication with the device. An external connector may then connect to the device through the temporary connector. Once the connector is attached, a user may select content to be downloaded or associated with the device.
- the device may be activated wirelessly and data may be transmitted wirelessly through the package.
- the device may be turned on physically by using a controller, such as a magnetic controller, that may displace the power switch from a first position to a second position.
- the controller may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag that may be used to activate the device.
- the device may include a sensor and may activate itself when a particular motion, sound, light, or image is sensed. The device may also be activated by inducing a current in the device through a magnetic coil or the like. Once the device is activated, the user may select content to be downloaded or associated with the device.
- RFID radio frequency identification
- the user may select content from another computing device, such as a computer or kiosk, or may select content from a wireless source (e.g., cloud storage, local or online retailer, and the like).
- the content may be downloaded directly to the device through the package, or may be associated with the device, e.g., through a serial number of the device, gift card identification, user name, or other identification code.
- the user may select to delete content from the device, rather than add content to the device.
- the content may be created by the user using the device, e.g., by taking a picture using a camera on the device when the device has been activated.
- the device may be further customized, in that the content may be integrated into a software package which may allow customized home screens, startup screens, or background images.
- a user may associate content with the device that may be select images that may apparent on a home screen or background screen of the electronic device.
- select content may be printed and included as a part of the package.
- the user may create content or may select content to be printed by a printing device and placed on the package.
- the printed content may be selected to correspond to the electrical content stored or tied to the device.
- the Electronic Device The Electronic Device
- FIG. 1A is an isometric view of an exemplary electronic device.
- FIG. 1B is an exemplary block diagram of the electronic device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may be substantially any type of electronic device that stores content, such as but not limited to, a computer, mobile phone, smart phone, digital music player, digital camera, calculator, personal digital assistant, television, and so on.
- the electronic device 100 is a portable electronic device such as a digital musical player or mobile phone, but other options are envisioned and the figures are meant to be exemplary only.
- the electronic device 100 may include a display 104 , at least one input member 108 , an input port 110 , a power switch 106 , and an enclosure 102 at least partially surrounding select or all of the components of the electronic device 100 .
- the power switch 106 may turn the electronic device 100 and on and off, e.g., may activate and deactivate the electronic device 100 .
- the power switch 106 may be positioned substantially anywhere on the electronic device 100 and may be substantially any type of input mechanism, e.g., button, switch, knob, and so on.
- the display 104 may provide an image or video output for the electronic device 100 .
- the display 104 may be substantially any size and may be positioned substantially anywhere on the electronic device 104 .
- the display 104 may be a liquid display screen, plasma screen, light emitting diode screen, and so on.
- the display 104 may further include an input sensor, e.g., capacitive touch screen.
- the input member 108 (which may be a switch, capacitive sensor, or other input mechanism) allows a user to interact with the electronic device 100 .
- the input member 108 may be a button or switch to alter the volume, return to a home screen, and the like. Additionally, the input member 108 may also provide haptic feedback or other haptic output for the electronic device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may include one or more input members 108 , and each button 108 may have a single or multiple input/output function.
- the input member 108 may be incorporated into the display 104 , e.g., a capacitive touch screen as the display 104 .
- the input member 104 (which may be a switch, capacitive sensor, or other input mechanism) allows a user to interact with the electronic device 100 .
- the enclosure 102 may form a portion of an exterior of the electronic device 100 and may at least partially surround select components, such as a processor, memory, and so on, of the electronic device 100 .
- select components such as a processor, memory, and so on
- the enclosure 102 may be removable from the device 100 , or may be substantially secured around the select components.
- the input port 110 may be formed within or defined by the enclosure 102 and may electrically connect an external device (e.g., headphones, speakers) to one or more internal components of the mobile computing device 100 .
- the input port 110 is configured to receive an electrical connector for the electronic device 100 .
- the input port 110 may be configured to receive a power cord, a data cable (e.g., universal serial bus, fiber optic, tip ring sleeve connector, and the like), or a combination data and power cable.
- the electronic device 100 may include more than one input port 110 and each input port 110 may be positioned substantially anywhere on the electronic device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may also include a sensor 122 positioned substantially anywhere on the electronic device 100 .
- the sensor 122 may include a single sensor or multiple sensors. Additionally, the sensor 122 may be configured to sense substantially any type of characteristic, such as but not limited to, images, pressure, light, touch, heat, movement, relative motion, and so on.
- the sensor 122 may be an image sensor, a heat sensor, a light or optical sensor, an accelerometer, a pressure transducer, a gyroscope, a magnet, and so on.
- the electronic device 100 may include a processor 112 , a network/communication interface 114 , an input/output interface 118 (which may include the display 104 , input members 108 , and/or input port 110 ), and memory 116 .
- the processor 112 may control operation of the electronic device 100 and its various components.
- the processor 112 may be in communication with the input port 110 , the display 104 , the input member 108 , the network/communication interface 114 , the memory 116 and the input/output interface 118 .
- the processor 112 may be any electronic device cable of processing, receiving, and/or transmitting instructions.
- the processor 112 may be a microprocessor or a microcomputer.
- the network/communication interface 114 may be used to place phone calls from electronic device 100 (in embodiments where the electronic device 100 is a phone), may be used to receive data from a network, or may be used to send and transmit electronic signals via a wireless or wired connection (Internet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet being a few examples).
- a wireless or wired connection Internet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet being a few examples.
- the memory 116 may store electronic data that may be utilized by the electronic device 100 .
- the memory 116 may store electrical data or content e.g., audio files, video files, document files, and so on, corresponding to various applications.
- the memory 116 may be, for example, non-volatile storage, a magnetic storage medium, optical storage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable memory, or flash memory.
- the input/output interface 118 facilitates communication by the electronic device 100 to and from a variety of devices/sources.
- the input/output interface 118 may receive data from user, control buttons (e.g., input member 108 ) on the electronic device 100 , and so on.
- the input/output interface 116 may also receive/transmit data to and from an external drive, e.g., a universal serial bus (USB), or other video/audio/data inputs.
- input/output interface 118 may include an audio output component such as a speaker or audio jack in order to provide an audio output for the device.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B are exemplary only. In other examples, the electronic device may include fewer or more components than those shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B .
- FIG. 2A is an isometric view of the electronic device 100 substantially enclosed within a package 150 .
- FIG. 2B is a bottom plan view of the electronic device 100 enclosed within the package 150 .
- the package 150 may substantially enclose the electronic device 100 and may prevent the electronic device 100 from collecting debris, being damaged, and the like during transportation, distribution, storage, sale, and so on.
- the package 150 may be substantially any shape. However, as shown in FIG. 2A , it may be configured to generally correspond to the shape of the electronic device 100 .
- the package 150 may be constructed out of substantially any type of material, such as, but not limited to, plastic, cardboard, paper, expanded polystyrene foam, paperboard, metals or alloys, wood, and so on.
- the package 150 may be a hard, at least partially rigid plastic in order to provide a stiff enclosure for the electronic device 100 .
- the package 150 may include a bottom wall 162 and two sidewalls 158 , 160 extending substantially vertically upward from opposite edges of the bottom wall 162 and parallel to each other.
- the package 150 may further include a top wall 156 spanning horizontally between a top end of each side wall 158 , 160 .
- a front and back wall 164 , 166 extend from opposite edges of the bottom wall 162 , and are substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls 158 , 160 .
- FIG. 2A is not necessarily drawn to any particular scale or proportion, and is intended to illustrate certain components generally rather than precise, exact relationships between such components. Likewise, some elements or components may be omitted from the view of FIG. 2A in order to more clearly illustrate what is shown in order to effectively describe certain embodiments. The foregoing is true for all other figures in this application, as well.
- the package 150 may define a cavity 168 in which the electronic device 100 may be supported.
- the cavity 168 may be modified based on the desired packaging strength or appearance desired.
- the walls 158 , 160 , 164 , 166 may be configured to substantially conform to the shape of the electronic device 100 .
- the cavity 168 may substantially trace the shape of the electronic device 100 .
- the cavity 168 may be much larger than the electronic device 100 and the walls of the package 150 may be spaced apart from the electronic device 100 .
- the package 150 may also include a product support 170 to support the electronic device 100 within the package 150 .
- the product support 170 may position the electronic device 100 at a certain height or position within the package 150 .
- the product support 170 may support a bottom surface of the electronic device 100 .
- the product support 170 may be differently configured and may support a rear surface of the electronic device 100 , a top surface, and so on.
- the product support 170 may be omitted in other embodiments. It should be noted that after FIG. 2A , the product support 170 has been hidden so that other aspects of the package 150 may be seen.
- the package 150 may define an access or connection aperture 152 .
- the access aperture 152 may be defined through a portion of the package 150 and provides an opening to electronically connect to the electronic device 100 .
- a connection cable may be inserted through the access aperture 152 to electronically connect to the electronic device 100 .
- the access aperture may permit content to be loaded onto the device electronically without removing the device from the packaging.
- the access aperture 152 may be positioned in the package 150 so as to be substantially aligned with the input port 110 , therefore the location of the input port 110 may drive the location of the access aperture 152
- FIG. 2B is a bottom view of the package 150 .
- the access aperture 152 may be substantially aligned with the input port 110 , so that a connection cable may be inserted substantially straight through the access aperture 152 in order to connect with the input port 110 .
- the access aperture 152 may be a rectangular aperture defined through the bottom wall 162 and may extend into the cavity 168 . In other embodiments, such as ones where the cavity 168 may be substantially formed around the electronic device 100 , the access aperture 152 may extend through the package 150 to the electronic device 100 . In this manner, the access aperture 152 may define a guide path or tunnel through the package 150 to the electronic device 100 . It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the access aperture 152 may be defined via slits or cuts within the package 150 , which may form a door or living hinge.
- the dimensions of the access aperture 152 may be configured based on the electronic device 100 , its position and configuration within the package 150 , the dimensions of the input port 110 , and/or the spatial relationship of the device/input port to the package.
- the electronic device 100 may include a smaller sized input port 111 than shown in FIG. 1A .
- the access aperture 152 may have smaller dimensions than those shown in FIG. 2A .
- the package 150 may further include a temporary cover or door to provide a covering or stopper for the access aperture 152 .
- FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the package 150 including the electronic device 100 and a temporary cover 172 .
- the temporary cover 172 may be positioned over the access aperture 152 .
- the temporary cover 172 may be a stopper-like member that may be inserted into the access aperture 152 or may be a label or paper including adhesive that may be positioned cover the access aperture 152 .
- the temporary cover 172 may be a door or living hinge that may be define the access aperture 152 .
- the temporary cover 172 may prevent debris, water, or the like from entering into the cavity 168 and the input port 110 .
- the temporary cover 172 may be selectively removable so that the electronic device 100 may be accessed and then replaced to cover the access aperture 152 .
- the access aperture 152 may provide a port or pathway for a connector (such as a Universal Serial Bus, or other data cable) to access the input port 110 without substantially damaging or otherwise opening the package 150 .
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the electronic device within the package with a connector 174 about to be inserted into the access aperture.
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the electronic device 100 within the package 150 with the connector 174 inserted.
- the access aperture 152 and the input port 110 are configured to receive the connector 174 .
- the connector 174 may be electronically connected to a second computing device, such as a computer, laptop, mobile electronic device, store kiosk and the like.
- the connector 174 may be substantially any type of connector, such as a power and/or data connector.
- the connector 174 may be a USB cable or 30 pin connector. However, other connector types are envisioned as well.
- the connector 174 may be inserted into the access aperture 152 and then into the input port 110 . Once the connector 174 has been received within the input port 110 , the electronic device 100 may be activated or powered on. Additionally, the connector 174 may transfer content or data such as music files, video files, applications, and so on, from the second computer (not shown) to the electronic device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may activate and the display 104 may display an initial screen 180 .
- the initial screen 180 may be substantially any type of graphical user interface and may include a display of particular data, such as music information, video information or the like. The transfer of content to the electronic device 100 is discussed in more detail below with respect to FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the electronic device 100 included within the package 150 having a package connector 184 .
- FIG. 4B is a bottom plan view of the electronic device 100 included within the package 150 illustrated in FIG. 4A .
- the package connector 184 may be formed within the cavity 168 and may be in communication with the input port 110 . In one example, the package connector 184 may be in electrical communication with the input port 110 .
- the package connector 184 may extend through at least a portion of the package 150 and may be substantially flush with the access aperture 152 or may extend slight past or terminate slightly before the bottom wall 162 .
- the package connector 184 may allow the connector 174 to connect to the electronic device 100 without requiring the connector 174 to be inserted into the package 150 .
- the package connector 184 may be temporary, in that it may be formed of a disposable or relatively inexpensive material, such as cardboard, plastic, or so on.
- the material forming the package connector 184 may further include conductive wiring, a printed circuit board, or another type of component for transmitting electrical signals. In this manner, the package connector 184 may transmit signals to and from the electronic device 100 and the connector 174 .
- the package connector 184 may be a plastic portion insert molded into the package 150 including electrical contacts or wiring.
- the package connector 184 may include a receiving port 188 for receiving a terminal end of the connector 174 .
- the receiving port 188 may be substantially the same as the input port 110 , so that the connector 174 may be able to be received within either the package connector 184 or the input port 110 .
- the receiving port 188 may be configured differently from the input port 110 .
- a specialized connector may be used in order to connect to the electronic device 100 and the package connector 184 may act as an adapter between the specialized connector and the electronic device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may be manufactured, transported and stored within the package 150 , and may not include any content stored in the memory 116 .
- the specialized connector may connect to the package connector 184 to transfer content to the electronic device 100 . In some cases, this content may include an operating system or other key software component necessary to operate or activate the device.
- the electronic device 100 may be substantially blank when being transported, and may only be activated or have content downloaded thereto by the specialized connector, a person may be substantially less likely to steal the electronic device 100 (or may be unable to use a stolen device).
- the specialized connector may be a non-standard connector with a unique pin layout in certain circumstances.
- the package connector 184 may be formed of a more permanent or more expensive material, such as a material similar to the connector 174 .
- the package connector 184 may be a relatively permanent connector that may be included within the entire packaging of the device 100 .
- the package connector 184 may be inserted into the port 110 and then a second end of the package connector 184 may be positioned to be substantially aligned with the access aperture 152 .
- This embodiment may allow a connector that may already be included with the packaging to be used to provide access to the electronic device 100 while it is in the package 150 .
- the package connector 184 may be positioned and configured in order to accommodate the position and orientation of the electronic device 100 within the package 150 .
- the package connector 184 is illustrated as extending or spanning between an inner surface of the bottom wall 162 of the package 150 to the bottom surface of the electronic device 100 , in other embodiments, the package connector 184 may be differently positioned, e.g., on a top, side or other position of the electronic device 100 and/or package 150 .
- FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the package 250 .
- the package 250 may be substantially similar to the package 150 , but the access aperture 152 may be omitted.
- the package 250 may be substantially enclosed and sealed so that debris, water, and so on, may be substantially prevented from entering into the cavity 168 .
- the electronic device 100 may be substantially encased within the package 250 .
- the electronic device 100 may be activated and content may transferred to the electronic device 100 wirelessly.
- an external device such as a wand or controller, may be used to activate the device.
- FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the package 250 and the electronic device 100 , with a controller 252 activating the electronic device 100 .
- the controller 252 may couple to the electronic device 100 to activate a switch, one example of which is power switch 106 .
- the controller 252 may physically move the power switch 106 from an off position to an on position, and vice versa.
- the arrows in FIG. 6B illustrate the potential relative movement of the power switch 106 as it interacts with the controller 252 .
- the power switch 106 and the controller 252 may be corresponding magnets, such that the controller 252 can magnetically move the power switch 106 (or other relay) mechanically.
- the controller 252 and the power switch 106 may be permanent magnets, electromagnets, or programmable magnets.
- the controller 252 and the power switch 106 may be substantially any type of material that has a magnetic field or can be configured to produce a magnetic field.
- a user may pass the controller 252 over the top wall 156 of the package 250 in a direction in which he or she desires the power switch 106 to move.
- a magnetic force produced by the controller 252 interacts (through the top wall 156 ) with the power switch 106 .
- the magnetic force may then pull the power switch 106 in the direction that the controller 252 is moving.
- the electronic device 100 may change states, e.g., the electronic device 100 may switch from off to on, from hibernate to on, from on to off, and so on.
- the controller 252 may be used to activate or turn on the electronic device 100 .
- content e.g., music files, data, and so on
- a second computing device may be transferred from a second computing device to the electronic device 100 wirelessly, e.g., through the network/communication interface 114 or the like.
- the transfer of content to the electronic device will be discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 7 .
- the controller 252 may activate the electronic device 100 wirelessly rather than mechanically.
- the controller 252 may have a unique electronic identifier that corresponds to a unique identifier in the electronic device 100 .
- the sensor 122 may then sense the unique identifier and may activate the electronic device 100 .
- controller may be stationary in some embodiments and the package, with device, passed beneath it to achieve the same results discussed herein.
- the controller 252 may include a RFID tag that may correspond to the electronic device 100 .
- the sensor 122 may recognize the unique identifier (the RFID tag) that may be transmitted by the controller 252 . If the unique identifier corresponds to the electronic device 100 , the sensor 122 may then activate the electronic device 100 .
- the sensor 122 may be an active RFID sensor, and may detect the controller's RFID tag. In such embodiments, the controller 252 may employ a passive RFID tag. However, other options are possible.
- the controller 252 may be an induction coil that operates in conjunction with a corresponding coil in the electronic device 100 .
- the sensor 122 may include a corresponding induction coil that may produce a current when placed in close proximity to the controller 252 .
- the electronic device 100 may include a speaker as a part of the input/output interface 118 . As the controller 252 is positioned over the location of the package 250 corresponding to the speaker, the controller 252 may induce a current in a coil of the speaker.
- the speaker may include a selectively magnetized coil in order to vibrate a diaphragm in order to produce sounds; this coil may be magnetized by the controller 252 while the device 100 is in the package 250 .
- the speaker As the speaker is activated, it may provide an input to the processor 112 to activate the electronic device 100 .
- the controller 252 may also induce the speaker coil indirectly.
- the controller 252 may produce a vibration that causes the diagram of the speaker to vibrate, inducting a current in the speaker coil to wake the device 100 .
- the aforementioned embodiments may also be used with a transducer microphone instead of a speaker in the electronic device 100 .
- the controller 252 may be a light source and the sensor 122 may be a light sensor.
- the controller 252 may be activated and direct a light, such as a ultra-violet light, an incandescent light, a light emitting diode, or the like, towards the sensor 122 through the package 250 .
- the sensor 122 which may be an optical sensor, or other light sensing component, may then sense the light source and activate the electronic device 100 by sending a signal to the processor 112 , or activating a power source of the electronic device 100 .
- the controller 252 may be omitted and the sensor 122 may be a light sensor.
- the sensor 122 may then be covered on the outside of the package 250 , e.g., by the temporary cover 172 .
- the temporary cover 172 or other item may then be removed when the electronic device 100 is to be activated.
- the sensor 122 may then detect the ambient light or a change in the light and may the activate the electronic device 100 .
- the senor 122 may be a pressure transducer and the electronic device 100 may be activated by a user blowing air or otherwise providing change in pressure into the package 150 .
- the senor 122 may be detached from the electronic device 100 .
- the sensor 122 may be included as part of the package 250 and may in communication with the electronic device 100 , e.g., through input port 110 .
- the sensor 122 may only be used to activate the electronic device 100 , and may not be included during the normal functions of the electronic device 100 .
- FIG. 7 is a flow chart of an exemplarily method for providing content to the electronic device 100 .
- the method 300 may begin with operation 302 and the electronic device 100 may be activated or turned on.
- the electronic device 100 may be activated in a number of different manners, such as but not limited to, connecting the connector 174 to the device 100 (either through the access aperture 152 or through the temporary connector 184 ), or wirelessly activating the electronic device 100 .
- custom content may be associated or downloaded to the device 100 .
- the user may provide an input to the electronic device 100 indicating that he or she may create his or her own content or otherwise select a unique or individualized selection of content to be associated with or downloaded to the device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may not include an essential software component, and the user may select an option to provide the electronic device 100 with content.
- Custom content may be substantially any type of content, but may be individualized for the particular electronic device 100 (for example, content selected by a user).
- Non-custom content may be content that may be common to all instances of a particular electronic device, such as an operating system or the like. It should be noted that a user may select particular custom content for a first electronic device and then reselect that same custom content for a second electronic device, and the content on each electronic device may still be considered “custom.”
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 306 .
- the electronic device 100 and/or a second computing device may present an option to the user to determine if he or she wishes to create content, e.g., take a photograph, record a sound, or the like.
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 310 and the user may create the content.
- the content may be created with the electronic device 100 , for example, a user may use the sensor 122 to capture an image, record a sound, or the like.
- the user may create the content using a second computing device, for example, the user may create the content with a digital camera and transfer the content to the electronic device 100 .
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 312 .
- the user may provide an input to the electronic device 100 or the second computing device selecting content to be associated or downloaded to the electronic device 100 . If the content is created by the user, the created content may then be chosen or selected by the user. This may involve providing an input to the electronic device 100 via the input member 108 indicating that a particular content should be added or may involve selecting a content on a second computing device.
- the content may be selected or chosen from a variety of sources, including the custom content, which may be on the electronic device 100 itself, online content (e.g., content available from online retailers), content stored in the memory of the second computing device and so on.
- the content may be selected by the electronic device 100 or by the second computing device as well.
- the content may be a music selection of the top 25 artists, which may be automatically selected by the electronic device 100 or the second computing device.
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 308 .
- the user the electronic device 100 , or the second computing device may determine whether the content should be updated.
- the user decide that the content of the device 100 to be updated.
- the second computing device may determine that the content may need be updated.
- the electronic device 100 once activated in operation 302 , may determine that its content is out of date and needs to be updated.
- the content that may be updated may be content already included on the electronic device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may include an operating system, data files, musical files, and the like that may be updated.
- the electronic device 100 may include software which may have been updated to a new version while the electronic device 100 was being transported or stored.
- the new version of the software may be downloaded or associated with the electronic device 100 , while the electronic device 100 is encased within the package 150 , 250 .
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 314 .
- the electronic device 100 or the second computing device presents an option to the user whether the content should be stored over a network or whether the content should be stored on the electronic device 100 . If the content is to be stored remotely, e.g., in cloud storage over a network, the method 300 may proceed to operation 322 .
- the electronic device 100 associates the content with a unique identifier.
- the unique identifier may be a serial number of the electronic device 100 , a gift card, a user name, a store name, and so on. Substantially any type of identification to associate the content with the particular user or with the electronic device 100 may be used.
- the content may be selectively or automatically accessed.
- a user may associate the content with the electronic device 100 while in a retail store purchasing the electronic device 100 . After the electronic device 100 has been purchased, the user may take it home and turn on the electronic device 100 .
- the content may be automatically associated with the electronic device 100 and may be accessibly substantially immediately when the user activates the electronic device 100 .
- the electronic device 100 may present the user the option of accessing the content, or the user may search for the content.
- the content accessible by the electronic device 100 may be substantially customized without opening the package 150 , 250 or destroying the package 150 , 250 .
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 324 and the electronic device 100 may be deactivated.
- the electronic device 100 may be deactivated by a user either wirelessly, wired, or another manner, e.g., predetermined time-out session, the device 100 turns off after a set period.
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 316 .
- the electronic device 100 or the second computing device determines if the content is local to the electronic device 100 .
- the content may already be stored on the memory 112 of the device 100 as the content may have been created with the electronic device 100 . If the content is local, the method 300 may proceed to operation 320 and the content may be added by the electronic device 100 , if the content has not already been added to the memory 112 of the electronic device 100 .
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 318 .
- the content is downloaded to the electronic device 100 via the connection cable 174 , the temporary connector 184 , or wirelessly (e.g., via the network/communication interface 114 , sensor 122 , or input/output 118 ).
- the content may be transferred to the electronic device 100 via the connection cable 174 .
- the content may be downloaded to the electronic device 100 via the network/communication interface 114 .
- the method 300 may proceed to operation 324 and the device may be deactivated.
- FIG. 8 is a diagram of a user 404 creating a customized label 402 to place on the package 150 , 250 .
- the user 404 may use a second computing device 406 , which may be in the form of a computer, laptop, mobile electronic device, or as shown in FIG. 8 , a kiosk, to create the label 402 .
- the label 402 may be designed by the user and/or my correspond to the content added or associated with the electronic device 100 .
- the content may be transferred to the electronic device 100 from the second computing device 406 , and thus the label 402 may be based on the content, e.g., a printout of the content names, an album cover corresponding to music downloaded to the device 100 , and so on.
- the user 404 may create the label 402 themselves.
- the second computing device 406 may also be used to erase content included on the electronic device 100 .
- a user may use method 300 to associate or download content to the electronic device 100 but may then not purchase the electronic device 100 .
- the second computing device 406 may be used to erase content on the electronic device 100 .
- the operations for erasing the content may be substantially the same as adding content to the electronic device 100 , in that the device 100 may be activated and electronically accessed, but content may be removed rather than added.
- the method 300 and the embodiments for the package 150 , 250 and electronic device 100 described herein may allow content to be customized and added to an electronic device without damaging or opening the packaging. This allows a user to give a personalized gift to a person, which may include selected content by the user in addition to the hardware and standardized content already include on the electronic device 100 . Furthermore, content may be updated, e.g., software programs, after a product has manufactured and shipped. Thus a user may purchase an electronic device with the most current software, even if the device had been manufactured weeks or months prior to the purchase.
- the embodiments described herein may provide theft protection for electronic devices.
- Electronic devices may be manufactured and transported without any content stored thereon. The content may then be added via a proprietary connector, unique identifier, or the like, as the electronic device is purchased. Thus, if an electronic device is stolen during transportation the device may be substantially useless.
Abstract
A method for providing customized content to an electronic device. The method may include activating the electronic device through a packaging that substantially surrounds the electronic device, without substantially damaging or removing the packaging. Once the device is activating, connecting the electronic device to a content and providing the content to the electronic device without substantially damaging or removing the packaging.
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. non-provisional application No. 13/248,950, filed Sep, 29, 2011, which is expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
- The present invention relates generally to electronic devices and more specifically, to providing content to electronic devices.
- Electronic devices such as digital music players, video players, smart phones, mobile gaming devices, laptops, and so on may include a variety of content such as music files, video files, applications, and so on. These electronic devices may often be sold in stores, online, or other retailers in packaging. The packaging may protect the electronic devices from damage during shipping, storage, and so on, as well as enhance attractiveness to consumers and/or reduce the likelihood of shoplifting. Prior to a particular electronic device being removed from its packaging, the content on the device typically is not customized. In other words, every electronic device of a particular model, if it includes any content, usually includes the same content. This is because it may be extremely time consuming and prohibitively expensive to customize content for each specific electronic device prior to packaging, as each device need to be accessed individually, slowing manufacturing, shipping, and other processes.
- Examples of embodiments described herein may take the form of a method for providing customized content to an electronic device. The method may include activating the electronic device through a package that substantially surrounds the electronic device, without substantially damaging or removing the package. Once the device is activated, connecting the electronic device to content and providing the content to the electronic device without substantially damaging or removing the package.
- Other embodiments may take the form of a method for individualizing content on an electronic device enclosed with a package. The method may include connecting a data connector in the electronic device through the package. Once the data connector has been connected to the electronic device, transferring content from a computer to the electronic device and disconnecting the electronic device from the data connector.
- Still other embodiments may include a system for packaging an electronic device. The system includes an electronic device and a package. The electronic device includes a processor and an enclosure at least partially surrounding the processor and defining an input port. The package substantially surrounds the electronic device and at least partially protects debris from encountering the electronic device. The package includes an access aperture substantially aligned with the input port, where the access aperture is configured to receive a connector for communicating with the electronic device.
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FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary electronic device. -
FIG. 1B is a block diagram of the electronic device ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in a package. -
FIG. 2B is a bottom plan view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package. -
FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package and including a temporary cover over an access aperture in the package. -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package with a connector positioned substantially beneath the access aperture. -
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the electronic device substantially enclosed in the package with the connector inserted through the access aperture and connected to the electronic device. -
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the package for enclosing the electronic device. -
FIG. 4B is a bottom plan view of the package enclosing the electronic device ofFIG. 4A . -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the package ofFIG. 4A with the connector in communication with the electronic device. -
FIG. 6A is another embodiment of an electronic device in a package. -
FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a controller positioned over the package and the electronic device ofFIG. 6A . -
FIG. 7 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for providing custom content to the electronic device. -
FIG. 8 is a diagram of a user using a second computing device to provide custom content and a label for the electronic device. - Some embodiments described herein may take the form of various methods and devices for providing customized content to electronic devices without removing the electronic devices from the packaging. As described herein “content” refers to any type of software, firmware, or electronic files, such as but not limited to, data files, operating systems, software or firmware updates, music files, images, videos, and so on. In one embodiment, a package for electronic devices includes a connection or access aperture that may substantially aligned with an input port or other port for the device. In this embodiment, the access aperture is configured to receive a connector therethrough, and the connector may electronically connect to the device through the packaging. Once the device is connected to the connector, a user may selectively choose content to be downloaded or associated with the device.
- In another embodiment, the package may include an embedded or temporary connector that may include a connection port accessible through the packaging. In this embodiment, the temporary connector may be made of a relatively disposable or inexpensive material, one example of which is cardboard with copper wiring attached thereto, or another similar type of temporary connector mechanism. The temporary connector may be positioned in the packaging so as to be in communication with the device. An external connector may then connect to the device through the temporary connector. Once the connector is attached, a user may select content to be downloaded or associated with the device.
- In yet another embodiment, the device may be activated wirelessly and data may be transmitted wirelessly through the package. For example, the device may be turned on physically by using a controller, such as a magnetic controller, that may displace the power switch from a first position to a second position. In another example, the controller may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag that may be used to activate the device. In another example, the device may include a sensor and may activate itself when a particular motion, sound, light, or image is sensed. The device may also be activated by inducing a current in the device through a magnetic coil or the like. Once the device is activated, the user may select content to be downloaded or associated with the device.
- The user may select content from another computing device, such as a computer or kiosk, or may select content from a wireless source (e.g., cloud storage, local or online retailer, and the like). The content may be downloaded directly to the device through the package, or may be associated with the device, e.g., through a serial number of the device, gift card identification, user name, or other identification code. Additionally or alternatively, the user may select to delete content from the device, rather than add content to the device. In other examples, the content may be created by the user using the device, e.g., by taking a picture using a camera on the device when the device has been activated.
- The device may be further customized, in that the content may be integrated into a software package which may allow customized home screens, startup screens, or background images. In one example, a user may associate content with the device that may be select images that may apparent on a home screen or background screen of the electronic device.
- Furthermore, select content may be printed and included as a part of the package. For example, the user may create content or may select content to be printed by a printing device and placed on the package. The printed content may be selected to correspond to the electrical content stored or tied to the device.
- The methods and devices described herein can be used with substantially any type of device that may be transported, sold, or otherwise enclosed in some form of packaging. However, in some embodiments, these methods and devices may be used with an
electronic device 100.FIG. 1A is an isometric view of an exemplary electronic device.FIG. 1B is an exemplary block diagram of theelectronic device 100. Theelectronic device 100 may be substantially any type of electronic device that stores content, such as but not limited to, a computer, mobile phone, smart phone, digital music player, digital camera, calculator, personal digital assistant, television, and so on. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A , theelectronic device 100 is a portable electronic device such as a digital musical player or mobile phone, but other options are envisioned and the figures are meant to be exemplary only. - The
electronic device 100 may include adisplay 104, at least oneinput member 108, aninput port 110, apower switch 106, and anenclosure 102 at least partially surrounding select or all of the components of theelectronic device 100. Thepower switch 106 may turn theelectronic device 100 and on and off, e.g., may activate and deactivate theelectronic device 100. Thepower switch 106 may be positioned substantially anywhere on theelectronic device 100 and may be substantially any type of input mechanism, e.g., button, switch, knob, and so on. - The
display 104 may provide an image or video output for theelectronic device 100. Thedisplay 104 may be substantially any size and may be positioned substantially anywhere on theelectronic device 104. In some embodiments, thedisplay 104 may be a liquid display screen, plasma screen, light emitting diode screen, and so on. Thedisplay 104 may further include an input sensor, e.g., capacitive touch screen. - The input member 108 (which may be a switch, capacitive sensor, or other input mechanism) allows a user to interact with the
electronic device 100. For example, theinput member 108 may be a button or switch to alter the volume, return to a home screen, and the like. Additionally, theinput member 108 may also provide haptic feedback or other haptic output for theelectronic device 100. Theelectronic device 100 may include one ormore input members 108, and eachbutton 108 may have a single or multiple input/output function. Furthermore, in some embodiments, theinput member 108 may be incorporated into thedisplay 104, e.g., a capacitive touch screen as thedisplay 104. The input member 104 (which may be a switch, capacitive sensor, or other input mechanism) allows a user to interact with theelectronic device 100. - The
enclosure 102 may form a portion of an exterior of theelectronic device 100 and may at least partially surround select components, such as a processor, memory, and so on, of theelectronic device 100. Theenclosure 102 may be removable from thedevice 100, or may be substantially secured around the select components. - The
input port 110 may be formed within or defined by theenclosure 102 and may electrically connect an external device (e.g., headphones, speakers) to one or more internal components of themobile computing device 100. Theinput port 110 is configured to receive an electrical connector for theelectronic device 100. For example, theinput port 110 may be configured to receive a power cord, a data cable (e.g., universal serial bus, fiber optic, tip ring sleeve connector, and the like), or a combination data and power cable. Theelectronic device 100 may include more than oneinput port 110 and eachinput port 110 may be positioned substantially anywhere on theelectronic device 100. - The
electronic device 100 may also include asensor 122 positioned substantially anywhere on theelectronic device 100. Thesensor 122 may include a single sensor or multiple sensors. Additionally, thesensor 122 may be configured to sense substantially any type of characteristic, such as but not limited to, images, pressure, light, touch, heat, movement, relative motion, and so on. For example, thesensor 122 may be an image sensor, a heat sensor, a light or optical sensor, an accelerometer, a pressure transducer, a gyroscope, a magnet, and so on. - Furthermore, the
electronic device 100 may include aprocessor 112, a network/communication interface 114, an input/output interface 118 (which may include thedisplay 104,input members 108, and/or input port 110), andmemory 116. Theprocessor 112 may control operation of theelectronic device 100 and its various components. Theprocessor 112 may be in communication with theinput port 110, thedisplay 104, theinput member 108, the network/communication interface 114, thememory 116 and the input/output interface 118. Theprocessor 112 may be any electronic device cable of processing, receiving, and/or transmitting instructions. For example, theprocessor 112 may be a microprocessor or a microcomputer. - For example, the network/
communication interface 114 may be used to place phone calls from electronic device 100 (in embodiments where theelectronic device 100 is a phone), may be used to receive data from a network, or may be used to send and transmit electronic signals via a wireless or wired connection (Internet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet being a few examples). - The
memory 116 may store electronic data that may be utilized by theelectronic device 100. For example, thememory 116 may store electrical data or content e.g., audio files, video files, document files, and so on, corresponding to various applications. Thememory 116 may be, for example, non-volatile storage, a magnetic storage medium, optical storage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable memory, or flash memory. - The input/
output interface 118 facilitates communication by theelectronic device 100 to and from a variety of devices/sources. For example, the input/output interface 118 may receive data from user, control buttons (e.g., input member 108) on theelectronic device 100, and so on. Additionally, the input/output interface 116 may also receive/transmit data to and from an external drive, e.g., a universal serial bus (USB), or other video/audio/data inputs. Furthermore, in other embodiments input/output interface 118 may include an audio output component such as a speaker or audio jack in order to provide an audio output for the device. - It should be noted that
FIGS. 1A and 1B are exemplary only. In other examples, the electronic device may include fewer or more components than those shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B . - A package for the
electronic device 100 will now be discussed.FIG. 2A is an isometric view of theelectronic device 100 substantially enclosed within apackage 150.FIG. 2B is a bottom plan view of theelectronic device 100 enclosed within thepackage 150. Thepackage 150 may substantially enclose theelectronic device 100 and may prevent theelectronic device 100 from collecting debris, being damaged, and the like during transportation, distribution, storage, sale, and so on. - The
package 150 may be substantially any shape. However, as shown inFIG. 2A , it may be configured to generally correspond to the shape of theelectronic device 100. Thepackage 150 may be constructed out of substantially any type of material, such as, but not limited to, plastic, cardboard, paper, expanded polystyrene foam, paperboard, metals or alloys, wood, and so on. In one embodiment, thepackage 150 may be a hard, at least partially rigid plastic in order to provide a stiff enclosure for theelectronic device 100. - The
package 150 may include abottom wall 162 and twosidewalls bottom wall 162 and parallel to each other. Thepackage 150 may further include atop wall 156 spanning horizontally between a top end of eachside wall back wall bottom wall 162, and are substantially perpendicular to thesidewalls FIG. 2A is not necessarily drawn to any particular scale or proportion, and is intended to illustrate certain components generally rather than precise, exact relationships between such components. Likewise, some elements or components may be omitted from the view ofFIG. 2A in order to more clearly illustrate what is shown in order to effectively describe certain embodiments. The foregoing is true for all other figures in this application, as well. - The
package 150 may define acavity 168 in which theelectronic device 100 may be supported. Thecavity 168 may be modified based on the desired packaging strength or appearance desired. For example, in some embodiments, thewalls electronic device 100. In these examples, thecavity 168 may substantially trace the shape of theelectronic device 100. However, in other embodiments, thecavity 168 may be much larger than theelectronic device 100 and the walls of thepackage 150 may be spaced apart from theelectronic device 100. - The
package 150 may also include aproduct support 170 to support theelectronic device 100 within thepackage 150. Theproduct support 170 may position theelectronic device 100 at a certain height or position within thepackage 150. As shown inFIG. 2A , theproduct support 170 may support a bottom surface of theelectronic device 100. However, in other examples, theproduct support 170 may be differently configured and may support a rear surface of theelectronic device 100, a top surface, and so on. Furthermore, theproduct support 170 may be omitted in other embodiments. It should be noted that afterFIG. 2A , theproduct support 170 has been hidden so that other aspects of thepackage 150 may be seen. - The
package 150 may define an access orconnection aperture 152. Theaccess aperture 152 may be defined through a portion of thepackage 150 and provides an opening to electronically connect to theelectronic device 100. For example, a connection cable may be inserted through theaccess aperture 152 to electronically connect to theelectronic device 100. Thus, theelectronic device 100 may be accessed without opening thepackage 150, thereby potentially substantially maintaining the integrity and strength of thepackage 150. The access aperture may permit content to be loaded onto the device electronically without removing the device from the packaging. Theaccess aperture 152 may be positioned in thepackage 150 so as to be substantially aligned with theinput port 110, therefore the location of theinput port 110 may drive the location of theaccess aperture 152 -
FIG. 2B is a bottom view of thepackage 150. As can been seen inFIG. 2B , theaccess aperture 152 may be substantially aligned with theinput port 110, so that a connection cable may be inserted substantially straight through theaccess aperture 152 in order to connect with theinput port 110. - In one example, the
access aperture 152 may be a rectangular aperture defined through thebottom wall 162 and may extend into thecavity 168. In other embodiments, such as ones where thecavity 168 may be substantially formed around theelectronic device 100, theaccess aperture 152 may extend through thepackage 150 to theelectronic device 100. In this manner, theaccess aperture 152 may define a guide path or tunnel through thepackage 150 to theelectronic device 100. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, theaccess aperture 152 may be defined via slits or cuts within thepackage 150, which may form a door or living hinge. - The dimensions of the
access aperture 152 may be configured based on theelectronic device 100, its position and configuration within thepackage 150, the dimensions of theinput port 110, and/or the spatial relationship of the device/input port to the package. For example in some embodiments, theelectronic device 100 may include a smaller sized input port 111 than shown inFIG. 1A . In this example, theaccess aperture 152 may have smaller dimensions than those shown inFIG. 2A . - In some embodiments, the
package 150 may further include a temporary cover or door to provide a covering or stopper for theaccess aperture 152.FIG. 2C is a perspective view of thepackage 150 including theelectronic device 100 and atemporary cover 172. Thetemporary cover 172 may be positioned over theaccess aperture 152. Thetemporary cover 172 may be a stopper-like member that may be inserted into theaccess aperture 152 or may be a label or paper including adhesive that may be positioned cover theaccess aperture 152. Similarly, thetemporary cover 172 may be a door or living hinge that may be define theaccess aperture 152. Thetemporary cover 172 may prevent debris, water, or the like from entering into thecavity 168 and theinput port 110. Thetemporary cover 172 may be selectively removable so that theelectronic device 100 may be accessed and then replaced to cover theaccess aperture 152. - As described above, the
access aperture 152 may provide a port or pathway for a connector (such as a Universal Serial Bus, or other data cable) to access theinput port 110 without substantially damaging or otherwise opening thepackage 150.FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the electronic device within the package with aconnector 174 about to be inserted into the access aperture.FIG. 3B is a perspective view of theelectronic device 100 within thepackage 150 with theconnector 174 inserted. Theaccess aperture 152 and theinput port 110 are configured to receive theconnector 174. - The
connector 174 may be electronically connected to a second computing device, such as a computer, laptop, mobile electronic device, store kiosk and the like. Theconnector 174 may be substantially any type of connector, such as a power and/or data connector. In some examples, theconnector 174 may be a USB cable or 30 pin connector. However, other connector types are envisioned as well. - The
connector 174 may be inserted into theaccess aperture 152 and then into theinput port 110. Once theconnector 174 has been received within theinput port 110, theelectronic device 100 may be activated or powered on. Additionally, theconnector 174 may transfer content or data such as music files, video files, applications, and so on, from the second computer (not shown) to theelectronic device 100. - As shown in
FIG. 3B , once theconnector 174 is inserted into theaccess aperture 152, theelectronic device 100 may activate and thedisplay 104 may display aninitial screen 180. Theinitial screen 180 may be substantially any type of graphical user interface and may include a display of particular data, such as music information, video information or the like. The transfer of content to theelectronic device 100 is discussed in more detail below with respect toFIG. 7 . - Temporary Connector Embedded into Packaging
- In another embodiment, a temporary or package connector may form a portion of the
package 150.FIG. 4A is a perspective view of theelectronic device 100 included within thepackage 150 having apackage connector 184.FIG. 4B is a bottom plan view of theelectronic device 100 included within thepackage 150 illustrated inFIG. 4A . Thepackage connector 184 may be formed within thecavity 168 and may be in communication with theinput port 110. In one example, thepackage connector 184 may be in electrical communication with theinput port 110. - The
package connector 184 may extend through at least a portion of thepackage 150 and may be substantially flush with theaccess aperture 152 or may extend slight past or terminate slightly before thebottom wall 162. Thepackage connector 184 may allow theconnector 174 to connect to theelectronic device 100 without requiring theconnector 174 to be inserted into thepackage 150. - The
package connector 184 may be temporary, in that it may be formed of a disposable or relatively inexpensive material, such as cardboard, plastic, or so on. The material forming thepackage connector 184 may further include conductive wiring, a printed circuit board, or another type of component for transmitting electrical signals. In this manner, thepackage connector 184 may transmit signals to and from theelectronic device 100 and theconnector 174. For example, thepackage connector 184 may be a plastic portion insert molded into thepackage 150 including electrical contacts or wiring. - The
package connector 184 may include a receivingport 188 for receiving a terminal end of theconnector 174. The receivingport 188 may be substantially the same as theinput port 110, so that theconnector 174 may be able to be received within either thepackage connector 184 or theinput port 110. - However, in other embodiments, the receiving
port 188 may be configured differently from theinput port 110. In these embodiments, a specialized connector may be used in order to connect to theelectronic device 100 and thepackage connector 184 may act as an adapter between the specialized connector and theelectronic device 100. These embodiments may assist in preventing theft of theelectronic device 100 prior to being sold. For example, theelectronic device 100 may be manufactured, transported and stored within thepackage 150, and may not include any content stored in thememory 116. Once theelectronic device 100 is purchased, stocked in a store, or otherwise ready to be used, the specialized connector may connect to thepackage connector 184 to transfer content to theelectronic device 100. In some cases, this content may include an operating system or other key software component necessary to operate or activate the device. As theelectronic device 100 may be substantially blank when being transported, and may only be activated or have content downloaded thereto by the specialized connector, a person may be substantially less likely to steal the electronic device 100 (or may be unable to use a stolen device). The specialized connector may be a non-standard connector with a unique pin layout in certain circumstances. - In other embodiments, the
package connector 184 may be formed of a more permanent or more expensive material, such as a material similar to theconnector 174. For example, thepackage connector 184 may be a relatively permanent connector that may be included within the entire packaging of thedevice 100. In this example, thepackage connector 184 may be inserted into theport 110 and then a second end of thepackage connector 184 may be positioned to be substantially aligned with theaccess aperture 152. This embodiment, may allow a connector that may already be included with the packaging to be used to provide access to theelectronic device 100 while it is in thepackage 150. - Similar to the
access aperture 152, thepackage connector 184 may be positioned and configured in order to accommodate the position and orientation of theelectronic device 100 within thepackage 150. For example, although thepackage connector 184 is illustrated as extending or spanning between an inner surface of thebottom wall 162 of thepackage 150 to the bottom surface of theelectronic device 100, in other embodiments, thepackage connector 184 may be differently positioned, e.g., on a top, side or other position of theelectronic device 100 and/orpackage 150. - In another embodiment, the
electronic device 100 may be activated and content may be transferred to theelectronic device 100 wirelessly.FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another embodiment of thepackage 250. Thepackage 250 may be substantially similar to thepackage 150, but theaccess aperture 152 may be omitted. In this embodiment, thepackage 250 may be substantially enclosed and sealed so that debris, water, and so on, may be substantially prevented from entering into thecavity 168. Thus, theelectronic device 100 may be substantially encased within thepackage 250. - In the embodiment of the
package 250 illustrated inFIG. 6A , theelectronic device 100 may be activated and content may transferred to theelectronic device 100 wirelessly. In one example, an external device, such as a wand or controller, may be used to activate the device.FIG. 6B is a perspective view of thepackage 250 and theelectronic device 100, with acontroller 252 activating theelectronic device 100. Thecontroller 252 may couple to theelectronic device 100 to activate a switch, one example of which ispower switch 106. - In one example, the
controller 252 may physically move thepower switch 106 from an off position to an on position, and vice versa. The arrows inFIG. 6B illustrate the potential relative movement of thepower switch 106 as it interacts with thecontroller 252. For example, thepower switch 106 and thecontroller 252 may be corresponding magnets, such that thecontroller 252 can magnetically move the power switch 106 (or other relay) mechanically. In this example, thecontroller 252 and thepower switch 106 may be permanent magnets, electromagnets, or programmable magnets. Further, thecontroller 252 and thepower switch 106 may be substantially any type of material that has a magnetic field or can be configured to produce a magnetic field. - In operation, a user may pass the
controller 252 over thetop wall 156 of thepackage 250 in a direction in which he or she desires thepower switch 106 to move. As thecontroller 252 passes over thetop wall 156, a magnetic force produced by thecontroller 252 interacts (through the top wall 156) with thepower switch 106. The magnetic force may then pull thepower switch 106 in the direction that thecontroller 252 is moving. As thepower switch 106 moves from a first position to a second position, theelectronic device 100 may change states, e.g., theelectronic device 100 may switch from off to on, from hibernate to on, from on to off, and so on. - In one example, the
controller 252 may be used to activate or turn on theelectronic device 100. After theelectronic device 100 is turned on, content, e.g., music files, data, and so on, may be transferred from a second computing device to theelectronic device 100 wirelessly, e.g., through the network/communication interface 114 or the like. The transfer of content to the electronic device will be discussed in more detail with respect toFIG. 7 . - In other embodiments, the
controller 252 may activate theelectronic device 100 wirelessly rather than mechanically. For example, thecontroller 252 may have a unique electronic identifier that corresponds to a unique identifier in theelectronic device 100. Thesensor 122 may then sense the unique identifier and may activate theelectronic device 100. - It should be appreciated that the controller may be stationary in some embodiments and the package, with device, passed beneath it to achieve the same results discussed herein.
- In one example, the
controller 252 may include a RFID tag that may correspond to theelectronic device 100. As thecontroller 252 passes over thesensor 122, thesensor 122 may recognize the unique identifier (the RFID tag) that may be transmitted by thecontroller 252. If the unique identifier corresponds to theelectronic device 100, thesensor 122 may then activate theelectronic device 100. In this example, thesensor 122 may be an active RFID sensor, and may detect the controller's RFID tag. In such embodiments, thecontroller 252 may employ a passive RFID tag. However, other options are possible. - In another example, the
controller 252 may be an induction coil that operates in conjunction with a corresponding coil in theelectronic device 100. For example, thesensor 122 may include a corresponding induction coil that may produce a current when placed in close proximity to thecontroller 252. In another example, theelectronic device 100 may include a speaker as a part of the input/output interface 118. As thecontroller 252 is positioned over the location of thepackage 250 corresponding to the speaker, thecontroller 252 may induce a current in a coil of the speaker. For example, the speaker may include a selectively magnetized coil in order to vibrate a diaphragm in order to produce sounds; this coil may be magnetized by thecontroller 252 while thedevice 100 is in thepackage 250. - As the speaker is activated, it may provide an input to the
processor 112 to activate theelectronic device 100. Similarly, thecontroller 252 may also induce the speaker coil indirectly. For example, thecontroller 252 may produce a vibration that causes the diagram of the speaker to vibrate, inducting a current in the speaker coil to wake thedevice 100. It should be noted that the aforementioned embodiments may also be used with a transducer microphone instead of a speaker in theelectronic device 100. - In another embodiment, the
controller 252 may be a light source and thesensor 122 may be a light sensor. In this embodiment, thecontroller 252 may be activated and direct a light, such as a ultra-violet light, an incandescent light, a light emitting diode, or the like, towards thesensor 122 through thepackage 250. Thesensor 122, which may be an optical sensor, or other light sensing component, may then sense the light source and activate theelectronic device 100 by sending a signal to theprocessor 112, or activating a power source of theelectronic device 100. - Similar to the previous embodiment, in some embodiments the
controller 252 may be omitted and thesensor 122 may be a light sensor. Thesensor 122 may then be covered on the outside of thepackage 250, e.g., by thetemporary cover 172. Thetemporary cover 172 or other item may then be removed when theelectronic device 100 is to be activated. Thesensor 122 may then detect the ambient light or a change in the light and may the activate theelectronic device 100. - Other embodiments for the
sensor 122 are also possible. For example, thesensor 122 may be a pressure transducer and theelectronic device 100 may be activated by a user blowing air or otherwise providing change in pressure into thepackage 150. - It should be noted that it substantially any of the above mentioned embodiments, the
sensor 122 may be detached from theelectronic device 100. For example, thesensor 122 may be included as part of thepackage 250 and may in communication with theelectronic device 100, e.g., throughinput port 110. Thus, thesensor 122 may only be used to activate theelectronic device 100, and may not be included during the normal functions of theelectronic device 100. - Once the
electronic device 100 is activated, content, such as an operating system, firmware (e.g., programs and/or data structures that internally control various electronic devices), software programs, software updates, firmware updates, data files, and applications may be transferred or associated with theelectronic device 100. The content may be customized and individualized for the specificelectronic device 100.FIG. 7 is a flow chart of an exemplarily method for providing content to theelectronic device 100. - The
method 300 may begin withoperation 302 and theelectronic device 100 may be activated or turned on. As described above, theelectronic device 100 may be activated in a number of different manners, such as but not limited to, connecting theconnector 174 to the device 100 (either through theaccess aperture 152 or through the temporary connector 184), or wirelessly activating theelectronic device 100. - After the
electronic device 100 has been activated, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 304. Inoperation 304, custom content may be associated or downloaded to thedevice 100. For example, the user may provide an input to theelectronic device 100 indicating that he or she may create his or her own content or otherwise select a unique or individualized selection of content to be associated with or downloaded to thedevice 100. Or, theelectronic device 100 may not include an essential software component, and the user may select an option to provide theelectronic device 100 with content. - Custom content may be substantially any type of content, but may be individualized for the particular electronic device 100 (for example, content selected by a user). Non-custom content may be content that may be common to all instances of a particular electronic device, such as an operating system or the like. It should be noted that a user may select particular custom content for a first electronic device and then reselect that same custom content for a second electronic device, and the content on each electronic device may still be considered “custom.”
- In
operation 304, if custom content is desired, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 306. Inoperation 306, theelectronic device 100 and/or a second computing device may present an option to the user to determine if he or she wishes to create content, e.g., take a photograph, record a sound, or the like. Inoperation 306, if the user wishes to create his or her own content, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 310 and the user may create the content. The content may be created with theelectronic device 100, for example, a user may use thesensor 122 to capture an image, record a sound, or the like. In another example, the user may create the content using a second computing device, for example, the user may create the content with a digital camera and transfer the content to theelectronic device 100. - After the content has been created or if the user did not choose to create content in
operation 306, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 312. Inoperation 312 the user may provide an input to theelectronic device 100 or the second computing device selecting content to be associated or downloaded to theelectronic device 100. If the content is created by the user, the created content may then be chosen or selected by the user. This may involve providing an input to theelectronic device 100 via theinput member 108 indicating that a particular content should be added or may involve selecting a content on a second computing device. - The content may be selected or chosen from a variety of sources, including the custom content, which may be on the
electronic device 100 itself, online content (e.g., content available from online retailers), content stored in the memory of the second computing device and so on. The content may be selected by theelectronic device 100 or by the second computing device as well. As an example, the content may be a music selection of the top 25 artists, which may be automatically selected by theelectronic device 100 or the second computing device. - Returning briefly to
operation 304, inoperation 304, if the user does not chose to create custom content, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 308. Inoperation 308 the user, theelectronic device 100, or the second computing device may determine whether the content should be updated. In one example, the user decide that the content of thedevice 100 to be updated. In a second example, the second computing device may determine that the content may need be updated. In yet another example, theelectronic device 100, once activated inoperation 302, may determine that its content is out of date and needs to be updated. - The content that may be updated may be content already included on the
electronic device 100. Theelectronic device 100 may include an operating system, data files, musical files, and the like that may be updated. For example, theelectronic device 100 may include software which may have been updated to a new version while theelectronic device 100 was being transported or stored. Thus, if content is to be updated on theelectronic device 100, the new version of the software may be downloaded or associated with theelectronic device 100, while theelectronic device 100 is encased within thepackage - After
operation 312, or inoperation 308, the content was chosen to be updated, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 314. Inoperation 314 theelectronic device 100 or the second computing device presents an option to the user whether the content should be stored over a network or whether the content should be stored on theelectronic device 100. If the content is to be stored remotely, e.g., in cloud storage over a network, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 322. Inoperation 322 theelectronic device 100 associates the content with a unique identifier. The unique identifier may be a serial number of theelectronic device 100, a gift card, a user name, a store name, and so on. Substantially any type of identification to associate the content with the particular user or with theelectronic device 100 may be used. - Once the content is associated with the
electronic device 100 or the user, the content may be selectively or automatically accessed. For example, a user may associate the content with theelectronic device 100 while in a retail store purchasing theelectronic device 100. After theelectronic device 100 has been purchased, the user may take it home and turn on theelectronic device 100. In one example, the content may be automatically associated with theelectronic device 100 and may be accessibly substantially immediately when the user activates theelectronic device 100. In another example, theelectronic device 100 may present the user the option of accessing the content, or the user may search for the content. Thus, the content accessible by theelectronic device 100 may be substantially customized without opening thepackage package - After the content has been associated with a unique identifier, the
method 300 may proceed tooperation 324 and theelectronic device 100 may be deactivated. As described above, theelectronic device 100 may be deactivated by a user either wirelessly, wired, or another manner, e.g., predetermined time-out session, thedevice 100 turns off after a set period. - In
operation 314, if the content is not stored remotely, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 316. Inoperation 316 theelectronic device 100 or the second computing device determines if the content is local to theelectronic device 100. For example, the content may already be stored on thememory 112 of thedevice 100 as the content may have been created with theelectronic device 100. If the content is local, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 320 and the content may be added by theelectronic device 100, if the content has not already been added to thememory 112 of theelectronic device 100. - In
operation 316, if the content is not local, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 318. Inoperation 318 the content is downloaded to theelectronic device 100 via theconnection cable 174, thetemporary connector 184, or wirelessly (e.g., via the network/communication interface 114,sensor 122, or input/output 118). In one embodiment, the content may be transferred to theelectronic device 100 via theconnection cable 174. In another embodiment, the content may be downloaded to theelectronic device 100 via the network/communication interface 114. After the content has been downloaded or otherwise added toelectronic device 100, themethod 300 may proceed tooperation 324 and the device may be deactivated. - After the content has been added or otherwise associated with the
electronic device 100, alabel 402 may be created.FIG. 8 is a diagram of auser 404 creating a customizedlabel 402 to place on thepackage user 404 may use asecond computing device 406, which may be in the form of a computer, laptop, mobile electronic device, or as shown inFIG. 8 , a kiosk, to create thelabel 402. Thelabel 402 may be designed by the user and/or my correspond to the content added or associated with theelectronic device 100. For example, the content may be transferred to theelectronic device 100 from thesecond computing device 406, and thus thelabel 402 may be based on the content, e.g., a printout of the content names, an album cover corresponding to music downloaded to thedevice 100, and so on. Alternatively or additionally, theuser 404 may create thelabel 402 themselves. - Furthermore, the
second computing device 406 may also be used to erase content included on theelectronic device 100. For example, a user may usemethod 300 to associate or download content to theelectronic device 100 but may then not purchase theelectronic device 100. In this example, thesecond computing device 406 may be used to erase content on theelectronic device 100. The operations for erasing the content may be substantially the same as adding content to theelectronic device 100, in that thedevice 100 may be activated and electronically accessed, but content may be removed rather than added. - The
method 300 and the embodiments for thepackage electronic device 100 described herein may allow content to be customized and added to an electronic device without damaging or opening the packaging. This allows a user to give a personalized gift to a person, which may include selected content by the user in addition to the hardware and standardized content already include on theelectronic device 100. Furthermore, content may be updated, e.g., software programs, after a product has manufactured and shipped. Thus a user may purchase an electronic device with the most current software, even if the device had been manufactured weeks or months prior to the purchase. - Moreover, the embodiments described herein may provide theft protection for electronic devices. Electronic devices may be manufactured and transported without any content stored thereon. The content may then be added via a proprietary connector, unique identifier, or the like, as the electronic device is purchased. Thus, if an electronic device is stolen during transportation the device may be substantially useless.
- The foregoing description has broad application. For example, while examples disclosed herein may focus on the packaging for an electronic device, it should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may equally apply to packaging for other devices and apparatuses. Similarly, although the electronic device may be discussed with respect a mobile electronic device, the devices and techniques disclosed herein are equally applicable to other types of devices. Accordingly, the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples.
Claims (18)
1-20. (canceled)
21. A packaged electronic device, comprising:
an electronic device comprising a sensor; and
a retail package surrounding the electronic device;
wherein the sensor is configured to sense a device outside the package that is in proximity with the electronic device, and
wherein the packaged electronic device changes from a deactivated state to an activated state in response to the sensor sensing a characteristic of the outside device.
22. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the characteristic is an electronic identifier of the outside device.
23. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the sensor is configured to sense an electronic identifier of the outside device, and
wherein the packaged electronic device changes to the activated state in response to a determination that the electronic identifier of the outside device matches a predetermined electronic identifier of the electronic device.
24. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the sensor is configured to sense an electronic identifier of an RFID tag of the outside device, and
wherein the packaged electronic device changes to the activated state in response to a determination that the electronic identifier of the RFID tag matches a predetermined electronic identifier of the electronic device.
25. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the characteristic is proximity of the outside device to the sensor.
26. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the characteristic is proximity of the outside device to the sensor within a predetermined proximity.
27. The packaged electronic device of claim 26 , wherein the predetermined proximity is based on a signal strength sensed by the sensor.
28. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the sensor is a coil and is configured to sense an induction coil of the outside device, and
wherein the packaged electronic device changes to the activated state in response to a current induced in its induction coil by the induction coil of the outside device.
29. The packaged electronic device of claim 28 , wherein the coil of the sensor is a coil of a speaker of the electronic device.
30. The packaged electronic device of claim 28 , wherein the coil of the sensor is a coil of a microphone of the electronic device.
31. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the first electronic device receives content wirelessly from a second electronic device when in the activated state.
32. The packaged electronic device of claim 21 , wherein the first electronic device receives content wirelessly from a second electronic device when in the activated state, without physical access to the first electronic device by the second electronic device.
33. Packaging for an electronic device, the packaging comprising:
an outer wall defining a cavity for receiving an electronic device;
an electrical source disposed within the cavity, for transmitting electrical signals to the electronic device;
wherein the outer wall defines an access aperture, and
wherein the electrical source is electrically coupled to a receiving port disposed at the access aperture, for receiving a connector.
34. The packaging of claim 33 , wherein the electrical source is configured to transmit signals to the electronic device by a wired connection.
35. The packaging of claim 33 , further comprising the electronic device,
wherein the electronic device comprises a coil for producing a current induced by an induction coil outside the electronic device while the electronic device is contained within the packaging.
36. The packaging of claim 33 , further comprising the electronic device, wherein the electrical source extends from the access aperture to a surface of the electronic device.
37. The packaging of claim 33 , wherein the outer wall comprises at least one of a bottom wall, a side wall, or a top wall.
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Also Published As
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US20130086373A1 (en) | 2013-04-04 |
WO2013049728A1 (en) | 2013-04-04 |
US8762704B2 (en) | 2014-06-24 |
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