KR20040023623A - Interactive apparatus with templates - Google Patents

Abstract

An interactive apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, the interactive apparatus includes a base unit 12. Base unit 12 includes a surface 29 and an array of electrical elements below the surface 29. The removable template 14 is disposed on the base unit 12 and disposed on the surface 29 thereof. The removable template 14 includes a movable element 19 that can be moved by a user and the speaker of the device can generate an audio output in response to the movement of the movable element 19.

Description

INTERACTIVE DEVICE WITH TEMPLATE {INTERACTIVE APPARATUS WITH TEMPLATES}

Toys with the ability to generate sounds and voices have become very popular among children in recent years. In this regard, a lot of toys have been developed that speak when a child presses a button on the toy. After pressing the button, the toy generates a pre-stored voice. For example, a toy may include a button with the letter "E" printed on it, and when the child presses the letter "E", the toy may sound a pronunciation of the letter "E" (ie, "this--"). Can be.

Such toys were developed. For example, over time, a child may become accustomed to reactions from toys. Children learn that by pressing on a certain part of the toy, the toy continues to produce the same sound over and over. The same set of buttons corresponding to the same sound is always presented to the user. As a result, education and entertainment can be predictable and repetitive. The child loses interest in such a toy and the child loses the value of education and entertainment.

In addition, such toys have only limited ways to help children learn and few ways to stimulate children. In many conventional electronic toys, the conversation a child can make with the toy is simply a push of a button. It would be desirable for electronic toys to have more functions and more ways to stimulate and interest children.

The present invention relates to an interactive apparatus.

1 is a plan view of a base unit of an interactive apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2 illustrates an interactive apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention;

3 illustrates an interactive apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention;

4 is a block diagram of some devices that may be used in one embodiment of the present invention;

5 is an electrical diagram of a switch array;

6 is a plan view of a lower portion of a group of switches in a switch array,

7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a switch when pressure is applied to the switch;

8 illustrates an interactive apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention, in which the detachable template has a window for exposing a sheet with a printing element;

9A is a side view of a removable template,

FIG. 9B is a top view in the open state of the detachable template shown in FIG. 9A, FIG.

9c shows a removable template portion with a gasket, FIG.

10 is a block diagram of a system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

11 illustrates a script table that may be used in one embodiment of the present invention.

In one embodiment of the invention, a) a base unit having a substantially flat surface and an array of electrical elements below the surface; b) a processor operably connected to the array of electrical elements; c) memory operably connected to the processor; d) an audio output device operably connected to the processor; And d) a movable element disposed over the electrical element in the array of electrical elements, the electrical element comprising a detachable template on the base unit surface, the removable element being designated to provide an audio output associated with the movable element. present.

In still another embodiment of the present invention, a) a base unit having a surface, a switch array below the surface, a memory, a switch array and a processor, a slot and a speaker operably connected to the processor; b) a transferable information storage medium insertable and erasable in a slot; And c) a fixed portion and a plurality of movable elements, the movable element being movable with the fixed portion fixed and having a different structure than the fixed portion, wherein the plurality of movable elements are switches Presenting an interactive device with a removable template on the surface of the base unit, which is disposed on a switch set in the array and each switch in the switch set is designated to provide an output related to the movable element disposed on the switch.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a base unit comprising: a) providing a base unit comprising a fixed plane; b) placing the detachable template on a substantially flat surface; c) moving the movable element in the removable template; And d) generating an audio output associated with the movable element in response to the movement of the movable element.

Another embodiment of the invention is used on a base unit surface of an interactive apparatus, comprising: a) a fixed area; And b) a moveable element that is structurally different from the fixed area and that moves independently from the fixed area and that can be moved by the user and that the lower part can contact the surface in response to the user's movement. The base unit presents a removable template with a movable element that produces an audio output associated with the movable element moved by the user.

These and other embodiments with respect to the present invention can be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Embodiments of the present invention provide an interactive apparatus consisting of a base unit and a removable template that can be used in the base unit. In some embodiments of the invention, the removable template may include a movable element such as a button. When the movable element is moved, the base unit generates an output for the user. The output may be an output of music or synthesized voice. Music or synthesized speech is preferably associated with a movable element moved by the user. For example, when the user presses a red water lily-shaped button on a detachable template, the base unit refers to the words "red" or "red water lily".

In addition or alternatively, in some embodiments of the invention, the removable template may be configured to secure a sheet of paper or the like relative to the base unit. These removable templates may or may not include movable elements such as buttons. If the paper sheet is on the base unit, the user can interact with the printing elements (eg, pictures, words, letters) on the sheet. For example, a user may apply pressure to a picture on a paper sheet or color the picture with a marking tool such as a crayon. In response, the base unit can generate an output for the user. The output may be an audio output such as music or synthesized voice. Regardless of the form of the output, the output is preferably related to the particular printing element with which the user is talking. For example, if the user colors the letter B on the paper sheet, the output provided to the user may be a synthesized voice that says "B, B is non-sounding."

The base unit supporting the removable template includes a major surface. The major surface is preferably a flat surface so that the user can write on the surface. When the removable template is on the base unit, it may be in direct contact with the major surface and may be some distance from the major surface. The major surface will be smooth and washable to easily erase marking markings such as crayon markings.

An array of electrical elements is below its major surface. In some embodiments, each electrical element is a pressure sensitive switch that is activated by pressure. Suitable pressure sensitive switches can include, for example, conductive regions separated by air gaps. The pressure applied to the conductive area causes the switches to come in close contact with each other. Another type of electrical element may be a piezoelectric element. When pressure is applied to the piezoelectric element, a change in resistance occurs. In other cases, pressure may be applied, for example, by a movable element, a stylus (eg, a marking tool such as a crayon), or the like, or may be applied by pressing on an electrical element with a finger.

In yet another embodiment, the electrical device may be the antennas disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,777,458 and US Pat. Nos. 09 / 574,599 and 60 / 200,725. Both of these patents and patent applications are assigned to the same assignee as the present application, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The antenna may transmit a signal that can be received by a stylus connected to the base unit. The stylus acts as a receiving antenna. When the stylus is located above the major surface, the stylus receives a signal specific to the electrical element under that stylus. The position of the stylus relative to the major surface can then be determined. In these embodiments, the stylus can be used to move the movable element in the removable template on the base unit. The stylus can also be used with the removable template to interact with the printing element on the sheet fixed to the base unit. In addition, in these embodiments, the electrical element may be a transmit antenna that regularly transmits the signal that the stylus receives. In these embodiments, the user does not need to selectively activate the electrical element. Alternatively, the stylus can function as a transmit antenna and the lower antenna (ie, the electrical element) can be a receive antenna.

In one embodiment of the present invention, all or some of the electrical elements in the array of electrical elements are predefined to retrieve and output a specific output for the user. Preferably, the electrical element is activated and then detects a predetermined output. In addition, some electrical elements may be pre-designated to point out that there is a different removable template on the base unit when activated. For example, if an electrical component associated with a new removable template is activated, the processor may be reprogrammed to reprogram the interactive apparatus so that the electrical component in the array detects the output associated with the new removable template.

The output provided to the user by the interactive device may be a visual output and / or an audio output. Audio output is desirable when the audio output complements and enhances visual information, such as letters, pictures, and numbers, present on a removable template or sheet. Example output may include letters, numbers, words, phrases, jokes, music, questions, answers, prompts, sound effects, facts, and the like.

In some embodiments, an output may be made requesting a response from the user. For example, an example question that an interactive device may ask a user may be "can you find a green triangle?" In response, the user can move the movable element associated with the green triangle. After the user's response, it may be provided to the user in an output related to noon of the user's response. For example, if the user's response is correct, the output presented (eg, “right!”) May be provided to the user. If the answer is wrong, the question may be repeated and the user may be informed that the answer is incorrect.

In yet another embodiment, the output provided by the interactive device may include a hint that helps the user answer the question previously provided by the interactive device. For example, if the first question asked to the user is "Press number 10," if the user does not press the number 10 after a predetermined time period, or if the user presses the wrong number, the interactive device presses another button and asks for a hint. You can ask the user to get it. For example, the interactive device may ask the user to "press dog Dan to get a hint." When the user presses this button, the device can give the user a hint: "Number 9, then number 10." By providing hints to the user, they can help the user learn a given task.

As mentioned, in an embodiment of the invention, the output provided to the user may relate to a particular movable element that may be moved by the user or to a particular printing element with which the user interacts. Thus, for example, the same output is not generated when the user presses the green movable element and the red movable element. Rather, different outputs are provided to the user specifically related to the movable element. For example, the user presses the green and red movable elements, respectively, and then phrases such as "green" and "red" are provided to the user.

The output may relate to information conveyed by a printing element or a movable element. For example, the output is the identity of the print element or movable element on the sheet. Or shape, color, shape, or quality. For example, if a crayon is coloring a picture of a frog on a sheet of paper on a base unit, the phrase "Hello! I'm jumping!" Can be retrieved from memory and spoken to the user by the speaker of the base unit. Alternatively or in addition, the output may provide additional information about a particular printing element or movable element. For example, the print element or movable element may be in a state form such as California. After the user interacts with the movable or printed element, information such as population, history and / or state area may be provided to the user.

Many different removable templates can be used in the base unit. In a set of removable templates, each removable template can have a different appearance and / or be adapted to educate a user about a different subject. Preferably, the removable template has bright colors and / or two or three dimensional characters (eg, animated pictures). This feature can make the child interested in the interactive device. Each removable template may be made of plastic and may be either hard or soft. Rigid removable templates are preferred because they can be easily manipulated and aligned by children. In some embodiments, the removable template has a substantially flat layer composed of molded plastic. In addition, the removable template can have any suitable dimension and thickness. For example, a typical removable template may have a thickness of less than about 0.5 inches and a planar dimension of greater than about 8.5 × 11 square inches.

Each removable template can include a fixed portion and a movable element that can move independently of the fixed portion. Each movable element may have a different structure and appearance than the fixed portion. For example, in some embodiments, the movable element may be a button disposed in the opening of the fixed portion. The button is connected to the wall of the opening by a flexible connector that allows the button to move independently of the fixing part in practice. In some embodiments, the movable element may also be disposed in the expansion opening of the removable template (ie, relative to the removable template plane). The movable element can move in parallel with the direction of the removable template within the expansion opening.

Each movable element may have a top and a bottom. In some embodiments, both the top and bottom can move perpendicular to the plane of the removable template. Pushable buttons are an example of this type of movable element. In another embodiment, the top in each movable element can move horizontally in the plane of the removable template. The top of the movable element can rotate, move left or right, or move up and down in the removable template plane. Such a movable element can simulate the free movement of an object to make a user interested in its use. For example, the upper portion of the movable element may be wheel-shaped. The wheel may form some representation of the transport vehicle on the removable template. The wheel can rotate in a removable template plane to simulate the natural movement of the wheel. As the user rotates the wheel, the user applies some pressure in the downward direction. This allows the bottom of the movable element to move downward to contact the major surface. In another embodiment, the bottom of the movable element moves up and down in response to this rotation (perpendicular to the removable template plane). A gear may be used to convey the movement of the movable portion. When the bottom of the movable element moves downward, it can contact the major surface and activate an appropriate electrical element below that major surface. In another case, the train wheel may sound as the user strikes the wheel.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the removable template can be easily removed from the base unit. The user does not need to use any special tools or procedures to remove and detach the removable template from the base unit. Preferably, the removable template may be attached on the major surface of the base unit without the use of clips or adhesives. In this regard, different removable templates with movable elements of different types, different patterns, or different sizes can be disposed interchangeably on the major surface of the base unit. The interface presented to the user can be easily changed. As the removable template changes, the look, feel, and functionality of the interactive device change. Compared with many conventional electronic toys, there is no need to use the same set of buttons and the same corresponding sound set every time a child uses the interactive device. As a result, children lose less interest than with conventional electronic toys when using embodiments of the present invention.

Interactive devices can be used for many intentional purposes. For example, it can be used to enjoy or educate the user. In some embodiments, the removable template or sheet may be designed to allow the user to enjoy the game. For example, the sheet disposed on the base unit may be a maze printed thereon. The user can use both a pencil and other records to track the path through the maze. Pressure is applied to the major surface under the sheet using a pencil. The electrical element under the pencil is activated and the processor of the base unit can electronically track the pencil's path. If the user misses the correct path to the maze, an audio output (eg, "Wrong!") May be provided to the user. In another embodiment, the removable template can be configured to simulate a swatch for practical purposes. For example, the template may be designed as a mockup of a child (eg, a spacecraft or a car) for practical purposes such as phone numbers, computer keyboards, control panels, and the like. Each of these specimens for these practical purposes has a movable element that can be moved by a user. When moving the movable element, sound can be produced in response. For example, the removable template may be in the form of a telephone keypad and the movable element of the removable template may be a button for the keypad. When the user presses the button, the bottom of the button may contact the major surface. At this time, the normal telephone button sound may flow from the speaker of the base unit.

In yet another embodiment, the removable template can be specifically designed to educate the user about a predetermined subject. For example, interactive devices and removable templates provide users with colors, letters, shapes, numbers, word pronunciation, phonetics, current affairs, songs, general math, algebra, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, geometry, science, geography. It can be designed to teach about history, spelling, grammar, instrument names and sounds, people, places, nature, music, sports, letters, numbers, counting, sociology, creative expression, and languages like English or Chinese. Skills taught by interactive devices may include recognition skills (eg, recognition of numbers and letters) and logic skills. Thus, in some embodiments, the interactive device may have features as an educational toy.

Although the interactive device has been described as an educational toy, in another embodiment, the interactive device need not be a children's toy and may be used for adults. For example, in some embodiments, different removable templates and / or different sheets used in the base unit can be designed for people who speak different languages. The interactive device may be reprogrammed to provide output specific to its removable template and related to different types of users. Many different templates can be used in one base unit and used by different types of people.

The user of the interactive device can be any suitable age (eg, adult or child). For example, the user may be a child under 10 years old (eg, a preschooler of 3 to 5 years old). In an embodiment of the present invention, the interactive device draws attention to a child's talking character, music, sound, and fun activities. Activities such as creativity, self-expression, and imagination can teach children important skills (eg, preschool skills).

By way of example, in one embodiment of the invention, the first removable template and the second removable template may be used in a single base unit. The first removable template can be designed to teach children the letters of the alphabet. The movable element of the first removable template may be buttons in the form of letters A through Z. The movable element of the second removable template is different from the movable element of the first movable element. Instead of having a movable element in the form of a letter, the movable element of the second removable template may have a numeric form. For example, the movable element of the second detachable template may be buttons having a number 1 to 10 shape.

The first removable template can be disposed on the base unit. When the user moves the movable element within the first removable template, the movable element interacts with one or more electrical elements that are moved among the array of electrical elements under the movable element. One or more electrical elements may be activated in response to a conversation with the movable element. Output is provided to the user in response to the movement of the movable element. For example, after the user presses a button in the form of a letter A on the first removable template, the button bottom is brought into contact with the main surface of the base unit. Pressure is applied to the main surface of the base unit and the applied pressure activates a pressure sensing switch inside the switch array below the main surface. After the switch is activated, the processor in the base unit retrieves the audio data corresponding to the pressed button. Audio data is converted into sound from speakers of the interactive device. For example, after pressing the letter A button, the data that creates the phrase "A, A is A!" Is retrieved from memory and the base unit sounds "A, A is A!" Can come out.

After the user has finished using the first removable template, the first removable template can be removed from the base unit. The second detachable template can then be placed on the base unit instead. When the user starts up the movable element of the second removable template, the interactive apparatus generates an output that is different from the output generated when the first removable template was used. For example, after the user presses a button of the number 7 in the second removable template, the bottom of the button comes into contact with the main surface of the base unit. Pressure is applied to the main surface of the base unit under the button. The buttons and switches below the main surface are activated. The switch is designated to provide the audio output associated with the number 7. For example, the audio output provided to the user after the user presses a button in the form of the number 7 may be "7, seven days a week."

After the user uses the second removable template, a third, fourth, etc. removable template can be used on the base unit. Different removable templates may form a set of removable templates. Each removable template belonging to the set may include a different appearance and different movable elements. Different outputs may be generated for each different template. By using different removable templates in the base unit, the appearance, feel and function of the interactive device can be easily changed by the user. As a result, compared to conventional electronic toys, the user will be less likely to lose interest in the interactive device over time because the same set of buttons and the same corresponding sound are not provided over and over again.

1 shows a base unit 12 of an interactive apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. 1 shows a base unit 12 and a marking tool 35 of an interactive apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. The base unit 12 includes an edge region 17 surrounding the major surface 29 of the base unit 12. The edge region 17 and other portions of the base unit 12 may be made of molded plastic. Under the base unit 12 there may be one or more removable templates (not shown) and / or storage recesses for storing the sheets which are not currently used.

A handle 16 is attached to the edge region 17. The handle 16 can be detached from or detached from the body of the base unit. Using the handle 16, the user can easily move the base unit and also a removable template (not shown) that is not used in the base unit. Thus, the interactive device can be portable and can even carry young children. In this regard, the interactive device may have a planar dimension of less than about 3 ft by about 3 ft. For example, base unit 12 may have dimensions of approximately 13 ″ × 18.75 ″ × 3 ″ (W × L × H).

The edge region 17 of the base unit 12 may have any suitable feature. For example, a covered or uncovered storage space 11 can be in the edge region 17. The storage space may store user personal items and recording tools such as pencils and crayons. In addition, a speaker 18 is present in the edge region 17 of the base unit. Prerecorded sound or synthesized sound may be provided to the user through the speaker 18. Such sounds may include music, synthesized words, phrases, word segments, sound effects, and the like. In addition, a slot 23 (not shown) for a transferable information storage medium (not shown) may be included in the edge area 17. Slot 23 is configured to accommodate a mobile information storage medium. A spring-loaded door (not shown) can cover the slot 23 and can be pushed in, for example, when a data cartridge is inserted into the slot 23.

The selection device 20 is also present in the edge area 17 to allow the user to select a particular mode of operation. As shown in FIG. 1, the selection device 20 may be in the form of a slideable knob. The user can use the selection device to turn the interactive device on or off. When on, the user can also select one of the training mode, game mode, and music mode. For example, when the interactive device is in an education mode, the user may move a movable element of a particular color or shape and may interact with a printing element of a particular color or shape. In response, the interactive apparatus can tell the user the shape and color of the movable or printed element. In the game mode, the user may enjoy the game or the interactive device may quiz the user. For example, a removable template with a button having the letters A to Z may be on the base unit. The interactive device may ask the user for an answer by saying "Can you find the letter D?" If the user paints the wrong letter, the interactive device can tell the user the name and sound of the letter (eg, "B, B is rain"). If the user selects the correct letter, the interactive device may reward the user. If you make the right choice, for example, "I did it!" Or a celebration phrase or other reward sound effect. Therefore, the interactive apparatus may provide different types of output to the user depending on whether the user marks the correct print element or the wrong print element. In the music mode, different music measures may be played when different movable elements are moved. For example, when a sheet containing print elements is on the base unit, different music measures may be presented to the user if different print elements are painted.

In an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of removable templates can be used and each removable template can operate in a plurality of modes. Interactive devices have more features than other common electronic toys. As a result, the user loses less interest in the interactive device. In addition, the concepts taught in these different modes can enhance the concepts to the user in different ways. For example, alphabet letter learning can be enhanced by a combination of explanatory instructions, questions (eg, quizzes), games, music, and the like. When a concept is presented to the user in many different ways, one learns more about that particular concept.

Major surface 29 may have any suitable feature or size. Major surface 29 may be a top surface composed of polyvinyl acetate or other suitable polymeric material. Preferably, the major surface 29 should be made of a material that can be easily cleaned if, for example, crayon marking or the like has been done on that major surface. In some embodiments, the major surface 29 may have a larger planar dimension than the standard paper sheet. For example, major surface 29 may have planar dimensions greater than or less than 8.5 × 14 inches. Larger dimensions may include a removable template that may hold a standard paper sheet relative to the base unit 12.

Referring to FIG. 2, a removable template 14 may be disposed on a major surface (not shown) of the base unit 12. In this example, the removable template 14 may include a bus picture carrying various characters. The removable template 14 includes a large number of movable elements 19 which are buttons in the form of letters (ie a to z). The removable template 14 may be made of molded plastic and rigid. The removable template 14 may also be substantially flat.

When the user presses the movable element 19, the bottom of the movable element 19 can apply pressure to the major surface of the base unit 12 under the removable template 14. The pressure applied to the major surface activates one or more electrical elements below the pressed movable element 19. After one or more electrical elements are activated, the processor of the base unit can retrieve output data associated with the letters associated with the movable elements from the memory. For example, the user can also press a button in the form of the letter "W". In response, the phrase "W, W is W." may flow from the speaker of the base unit of the interactive apparatus.

In the case of such an embodiment, the edge area 17 may be adapted to accommodate the removable template 14 (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the edge region 17 may be raised above the major surface of the base unit 12 and may surround the major surface. When the removable template 14 is disposed on the major surface of the base unit 12, the edge area 17 guides the removable template 14 to correctly on the major surface of the base unit 12. To be deployed. The movable element 19 is also correctly disposed above the electrical element below the main surface of the base unit 12. Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, the removable template 14 can self-align with the major surface of the base unit 12. This allows a user, such as a child, to easily place the removable template 14 on the surface of the base unit 12 and use its interactive device. The user does not have to worry about arranging the removable template 14 so that the movable element 19 corresponds exactly with the electrical element below the main surface.

3 is a perspective view of another interactive apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The interactive apparatus shown in FIG. 3 has a base unit 12 of the type as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. However, in an embodiment of the interactive apparatus, another removable template 14 will be on the base unit 12. The detachable template 14 in this embodiment shows a train on which various characters are riding. Like the detachable template shown in FIG. 2, the detachable template 14 shown in FIG. 3 may be made of molded plastic. It can also be actually hard and flat.

The removable template 14 shown in FIG. 3 includes many movable elements. The movable elements 37, 38, 39 of the removable template 14 may have portions that move in a direction parallel to the plane of the removable template 14. for example. The template 14 comprises a movable element 38 in the form of a train wheel. The top of the movable element 38 rotates in a plane parallel to the plane of the removable template 14. When the user moves this, the train wheel appears to move. The movable element 38 can move inside a round expandable slot (not shown) in the removable template 14. When the top of the movable element 38 moves, the bottom of the movable element 38 comes into contact with the major surface under the removable template 14. The removable template 14 also includes a whistle-shaped movable element 37. The user can move the whistle up and down within the expansion opening. The movement of the whistle causes the lower portion of the movable element 37 to move in contact with the major surface under the removable template 14. Pressure is applied to an electrical element (not shown) below the removable template 14. In response to the applied pressure, the speaker of the base unit 14 may provide a train whistle sound to the user. In another embodiment, movable element 39 may take the form of a bus window that moves up and down. Such an interactive device may generate sound in response to the movement. A movable element 19 in the form of a pushable button is also provided in the removable template 14. Each button may have a numeric form (eg, 1 to 10). When the user presses these numbers, the base unit 12 can provide the corresponding audio output. For example, after pressing the number "10", the synthesized voice coming from the speaker may be "ten".

4 is a block diagram illustrating some elements of an interactive apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Each element shown in FIG. 4 may be housed in a base unit. Some devices (eg, mobile information storage medium 80) may be physically separate from the base unit.

The interactive apparatus includes a processor 86. Processor 86 may be one or more microprocessors that facilitate the operation of an interactive device. In an embodiment of the invention, one or more microprocessors may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Processor 86 may be connected to any suitable electronic device. 4, processor 86 is coupled to memory 90, input device 92, and electrical element array 88. Speech synthesizer 82 and audio output device 84 are synthesized speech or other. Provide audio output to the user. The mobility information storage medium 80 is connected to the processor 80 in a removable manner. In some embodiments, the mobility information storage medium 80 may be inserted into a slot of the base unit. Data may be retrieved from the base unit or provided to the base unit via its mobility information storage medium.

Speech synthesizer 82 may be a speech synthesizer separate from the microprocessor that enables conversations between the various devices of the interactive apparatus. Alternatively, speech synthesizer 82 may be integrated on a computer chip with logic circuitry that enables the interaction between the various elements of the interactive apparatus.

The audio output device 84 provides the audio output to the user. Examples of audio output devices include speakers and earphone jacks. In addition to or instead of the audio output device, other output devices such as visual output devices (not shown) may be used. Examples of visual output devices include LCDs (liquid crystal displays).

Memory 90 may be any suitable temporary or permanent information storage device. The memory 90 may include optical, magnetic, or electronic storage media such as optical or magnetic disks, tapes, sticks, and the like. Any suitable combination of information storage devices may configure the memory 90 of the interactive device in a controllable manner. In some embodiments, memory 90 may include one or more RAM, ROM, and EPROM chips. For example, the memory 90 may include a ROM chip having a storage capacity of about 2 megabytes or more.

Memory 90 may store any suitable information. For example, the memory 90 may store code for sheets used in the base unit and electronic maps for removable templates or sheets. Each electronic map may associate a particular electrical element within an array of electrical elements with a particular output. Certain outputs may be associated with particular print elements or particular movable elements on a print sheet in a particular removable template. Memory 90 may also store code relating to a user's name, or for retrieving the user's name from, for example, a mobility information storage medium. The device may welcome the user's name to welcome the user's experience to be for a particular individual. Code for output provided by the interactive apparatus may also be stored in the memory 90.

In some embodiments, information such as questions, words, pictures, music sounds, applications, and the like may be stored in code libraries, resource libraries, and application libraries. These libraries may reside in memory 90. Once stored in memory 90, such information can be accessed according to the instruction set provided to processor 86. Instruction sets for manipulating data can be sent to and from an interactive device more quickly than the data file itself. Large data files, such as sound or image files, are stored repeatedly and do not need to be transferred to / from the base unit. Small command files are transferred, requiring faster data transfers and smaller memory capacities. For example, music data can be quickly transmitted to / from an interactive device in accordance with a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) or MIDI-like protocol. For example, for some embodiments, simply instructions for playing back the audio data are sufficient, without the actual audio data having to be sent to / from the base unit. This allows the same audio sequence stored in the base unit to be used multiple times without the need for any additional audio storage.

Instructions for playing audio data may include general audio sequences (GASs). GASs are very compressed commands for specifying and playing audio resources. A single GAS command sequence can specify complex audio sequences. Exemplary GAS commands may include the following.

GAS command for hGAS_HelloThere

hCA_Hello play

0.1 sec standby

hCA_There playing

In this example, the actual audio data for the words "Hello" and "There" need not be transmitted to / from the base unit. These phrases can be retrieved and reproduced according to instructions sent to / from the base unit once stored in the memory of the base unit. The command file is generally smaller in size than the actual audio file so that it can be transferred to / from the base unit more quickly than the actual audio file. Therefore, the interactive apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily updated.

A general audio sequence (GAS) can call various audio resources stored as CA, SYN, and RAW audio resources. Although any suitable label may be used, SYN can be used as an abbreviation for the word "synthetic" and with an on-chip synthesizer for instrument sounds, horn sounds, animal sounds, and the like. . A "SYN" file can be derived from a MIDI type file. "RAW" may be a raw or uncompressed audio sound file. They can be used when very high quality sound is required. "CA" represents a "compressed audio" file.

Each CA audio resource is a compressed binary file representing a word, phrase, or sound. Each SYN audio resource may be a set of instructions representing a tool and its tones, timbres, and the like. In some embodiments, a simple command is sufficient, without the need to store the actual file's sound file in the SYN audio resource. This allows the music command set to specify very high quality complex music in a very small space. The sounds, tones, timbres, etc. of the tools are stored in RAW audio resources, which may be uncompressed binary files representing the sounds. They can be used if high quality audio output is required.

One or more input devices 92 may be included in the interactive device. Examples of input devices include stylus, knobs, buttons, levers, and the like. They may be in the edge region of the base unit. For example, the above-described selection device may be an input device. Other input devices such as volume control may also be present in the base unit.

Any suitable mobility information storage medium 80 may be used in the interactive apparatus. For example, the removable information storage medium 80 may be a cartridge, disk, tape, or memory stick. Data cartridges are particularly desirable because they can be easily manipulated and manipulated by children. In some embodiments, the mobility information storage medium 80 may comprise a flash memory cartridge.

The mobility information storage medium 80 can be used to provide new computer code to the interactive device. Suitable computer code may include code for updating the interactive device such that a new sheet is available at the interactive device. The code may also be updated so that another sheet can be used for the interactive device. Thus, by using the mobility information storage medium 80, the interactive apparatus can be reprogrammed so that new sheets with different printing elements printed on the sheet can be used in the interactive apparatus. It can also be used to send not only audio data or graphic data but also instructions for playing audio data or graphic data to the interactive apparatus.

The mobility information storage medium 80 may also be used to detect computer code from the interactive apparatus that may be used in other cases. For example, performance information of a user may be recorded in a user log file stored in the mobility information storage medium 80. User performance information may be recorded in a user log file and the performance information may be uploaded to a server computer. Using its performance information and optional personal profile, the server computer can select content for the user. For example, a user may have an interactive device (eg, the interactive device shown in FIG. 2) that includes a removable template with letters A through Z. In conversation mode, the interactive device may ask the user questions about character recognition and spelling. Example questions include, for example, "Can you find A?", "How do I use CAT?" Questions may be included. The interactive device can determine if the user is good at character recognition but should improve the spelling of the user. Such performance information may be recorded in a user log in the mobility information storage medium 80 and uploaded to a server computer.

In response, the server computer can search for more spelling problems for the user and search for fewer letter recognition related problems. Thus, over time, interactive devices are adapted to the educational capabilities of the user, presenting new and different challenges to the user. Adaptive training courses and systems are disclosed in great detail in US Patent Application No. 09 / 632,424, filed August 4, 2000, which application is assigned to the same assignee as the present invention and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Is cited.

In some embodiments, the mobility information storage medium does not need to transfer computer code to / from the base unit. For example, the base unit may include or be coupled to a transceiver (eg, an RF transceiver) capable of transmitting or receiving computer code to a computer separate from the base unit. In another case, the base unit may have a data port, such as a universal serial bus (USB), that allows a user to transfer data to / from the base unit by physical connection. The physical connection may be a data cable connected to a computer.

The base unit of the interactive apparatus can be powered using a battery or power cord. Preferably, the electronic circuit of the base unit 12 is preferably powered using a battery. In addition, the base unit 12 may be automatically shut off if the interactive device has not been used for a predetermined time period (eg, 1 or 3 seconds or more). By doing so, battery power can be saved even if the user forgets to turn off the interactive device. Children often forget to use electronic toys and then turn them off.

An example of an interactive apparatus may be disclosed with reference to FIG. 4. The user can press on the movable element in the removable template on the base unit major surface. The pressure applied by the user to the movable element is transmitted to the main surface and to an electrical element that is a pressure sensitive switch. The pressure sensitive switch is below the movable element and the major surface and is also in the electrical element array 88. Processor 86 then determines which electrical elements in electrical element array 88 have been activated. After determining that the electrical component has been activated, the processor 86 detects speech data corresponding to the activated electrical component in the memory 90. The detected speech data is related to the movable element pressed by the user. For example, the movable element may be a rectangular shape or a red button. Speech data detected for the movable element may be the phrase "red rectangle". After determining which sound is to be provided to the user, processor 86 causes speech synthesizer 82 and audio output device 84 to generate speech using the detected speech data.

As mentioned, the electronic device array 88 may be disposed below the major surface of the base unit. Each electronic device in the array can be arranged in a regular or irregular manner. For example, the electrical elements can be arranged in an array consisting of a plurality of rows and columns. Each electrical element may correspond to a specific row and specific column within the electrical element array 88. An electrical schematic of an exemplary electrical switch array is shown in FIG. 5. In FIG. 4, there are eight rows and 14 columns of a total of 112 switches labeled 1 through 112. FIG. Each switch may correspond to a specific row and a specific column.

In an electrical element array, some electrical elements in the array may interact with the movable elements in one template, while other electrical elements in the array may interact with the movable elements of another template. For example, referring to FIG. 5, the first removable template may be designed to activate the switches 47, 60, 69 to provide output related to the feature elements on the first removable template. The second removable template may be designed to activate the switches 71, 74, 80 to provide an output related to the feature element on the second removable template. By designating certain switches in the array to be used in a given detachable template, the electrical elements in the array of electrical elements need not be reassigned to retrieve a different output for each detachable template used in the base unit.

In some embodiments, one or more electrical elements in electrical element array 88 may be designated to identify a particular template (or specific sheet with one or more different printing elements) that the user uses. Each removable template may be provided with a movable element for activating a predetermined electrical element. Electrical elements are specified in advance to inform the base unit that different sheets are present on the base unit. After being activated, certain electrical elements in the electrical element array 88 may be redirected to retrieve the output corresponding to the new removable template on the base unit.

By way of example, referring again to FIG. 5, a first removable template is placed on the switch array. Switch 14 is activated by pressing the "Go" button (or other indicator) in the upper right corner. Synthesized voice flows from the speaker of the base unit, prompting the user to press the "Go" button. When switch 14 is activated, the processor determines that the first removable template is currently on the base unit. The switches 85, 87, 89 may be designated to detect output specific to the first removable template when activated by another movable element on the first removable template. After interacting with the first removable template, the second removable template can be disposed on the switch array. The second detachable template may include a "Go" button in the lower right corner. A “Go” button in the second removable template can be placed on the switch 112. Other movable elements in the second removable template can be disposed on the switches 85, 87, 89. Pressing the "Go" button on the second removable template, the switch 112 is activated and the processor determines that the second removable template is on the base unit. The processor then reassigns the switches 85, 87 and 89 so that when the switches are activated, the output associated with the second removable template is detected instead of the output associated with the print element on the first removable template.

Alternatively or in addition, the base unit can automatically determine if the removable template is currently being used without any response from the user. For example, in some embodiments, each removable template may have a protrusion projected downward from the bottom surface of the removable template or a portion projecting from the side of the template. For each removable template, the protrusions are each positioned at Differently, different pressure sensing switches (eg template side or bottom) are activated when different removable templates are on the base unit. The processor in the base unit can determine which removable template currently exists in the base unit from a particular switch that is activated by the removable template. In another example, the removable template can make electrical contact at each different location at its bottom edge. Corresponding electrical contacts can be disposed above the major surface edge of the base unit. When the removable template is on the base unit, the bottom edge of the removable element contacts the top edge of the major surface. Electrical contact is made between the bottom edge of the removable template and a specific set of electrical contacts on the top edge of the major surface. The processor of the base unit can then determine which contact is activated at the major surface edge. In this information, the processor can determine if a removable template is present on the base unit.

As mentioned, the electrical element may be a pressure sensitive switch. In some embodiments, each switch may include an upper conductive region and a lower conductive region that are not in contact with each other when there is no pressure applied. The upper conductive region can be in a particular row and the lower conductive region can be in a particular column (or vice versa). When pressure is applied to the upper conductive region, the upper conductive region contacts the lower conductive region to close the circuit and activate the switch. The processor determines the row and column of the pressed switch. You can then retrieve the output assigned to that active switch from memory. This output can then be presented to the user.

6 is a plan view showing a portion of a switch array according to an embodiment of the present invention. Lower conductive regions 42a and 42b correspond to columns of the switch array. The lower conductive regions 42a and 42b may be, for example, conductive links printed on an insulating substrate. The rows of lower conductive regions 42a and 42b are electrically isolated from each other by the insulating regions 46. Many insulating spacers 44 are on lower conductive regions 42a and 42b.

Insulating spacers 44 space the lower conductive regions 42a and 42b of the switch from their corresponding upper conductive regions (not shown). The upper conductive region is separated from the lower conductive regions 42a and 42b by the air gap. If no pressure is applied, the air gap separates the upper and lower conductive regions so that the switch is open.

When pressure is applied to the switch, the upper conductive region contacts the lower conductive region of the switch to form a closed circuit. Referring to FIG. 7, pressure may be applied to the major surface 29 of the base unit. The user may apply pressure to the major surface 29 using, for example, a movable element of a finger, stylus, or removable template. The stylus can include marking or non-marking tools. Marking tools include crayons, pens, markers, and pencils. A more detailed description of an embodiment using a marking tool is disclosed in US Patent Application No. ___________, entitled "Interactive Apparatus Using Print Media," filed on the same day as this application. This patent application is assigned to the same applicant as the present application and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The moveable element includes an upper portion in contact with the user and a lower portion in contact with the major surface 29 of the base unit. The major surface 29 includes an insulating layer 52 and the insulating layer 52 includes an upper conductive region 54 printed thereon. The upper insulating layer 52 may be composed of a suitable flexible insulating layer, such as Mylar ^™ , for example. The insulating spacer 44 prevents the upper conductive region 54 and the lower conductive region 42 on the lower insulating layer 60 from contacting each other. However, when pressure is applied to the major surface 29, the upper insulating layer 52 and the upper conductive region 54 deform. The upper conductive region 54 and the lower conductive region 42 then come into contact with each other to activate the switch. The conductive material forming the conductive region is solid or patterned. Patterning the conductive material reduces the cost by requiring less conductive material to construct the interactive device.

The maximum lateral spacing of adjacent insulating spacers 44 separating the upper and lower conductive regions of the switch may be adjusted such that the user's finger or marking tool does not activate the switch while the user's finger or marking tool activates the switch. For example, in some embodiments, the maximum lateral spacing between adjacent insulating spacers 44 may be from about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches (or less). As a result, even if the user's palm touches the main surface of the base unit, the switch under the main surface is not accidentally activated.

In some embodiments of the invention, the removable template may be adapted to hold the sheet in the base unit and align the sheet with the major surface of the base unit. The sheet may be colored or non-colored and may include any suitable number or type of printing elements. Exemplary printing elements include pictures, pictures (eg, photographs), symbols, maps, letters, numbers, and the like. The user can interact with the printing elements on the sheet and the interactive device can provide output in response to such conversation. By way of example, the printing element may be, for example, a letter or character that the user can color. Output related to the colored text or character is provided to the user. The printing element can also be selected by the user without marking the sheet. For example, a sheet may be placed on the base unit and the user may select pictures, words, letters or the like printed on the sheet without marking on the sheet. Output related to the selected picture, word or letter may be provided to the user.

The position at which contact is made between the upper conductive region 54 and the lower conductive region 42 may correspond to a pattern marked or marked on the interactively active sheet or template located on the major surface 29. In an embodiment of the interactive apparatus, a pair of conductive region sets 42 and 54 may be included in a pattern representing the outline of the block letter "A". For example, there may be 10 pairs of contact points below the contour of the block letter "A" on the active sheet. When crayons are used to color the letter "A" on the active sheet, ten pairs of contact points are repeatedly activated sequentially and the interactive device responds with an audio signal. For example, the audio signal is "This is the letter A. Read" A "or" A "in apple or April." The interactive device can continuously play other audio signals while the letter "A" is colored. For example, one may play the song "April Showers" or the phrase "An apple a day keeps the doctor away". If the child is coloring the block letter "A", the coloring operation may not be completely continuous. The child may put a crayon on the seat and rest for a few seconds. If the child starts to color again, it may not necessarily be necessary to start the audio signal from the beginning, especially if the child stops working for only a few seconds. Since the traditional "debounce" technique is symmetrical, using the traditional debounce technique will delay the onset of signal recognition and delay the resumption of the signal when the child starts coloring after a short break. (Traditional debounce techniques count a preset number of repetitive contacts before recognizing a real signal, that is, a real signal, but not a fake signal, and successively determine the same preset number of contacts as before It would be undesirable to delay the audio signal when the child started drawing, so the known debounce technique would not be useful for correcting the problem of starting the audio signal every few seconds. will be. As a result, the interactive apparatus of the present invention is configured to use the novel asymmetric debounce technique. Contact initiation between a pair of contacts is called "down conversion" and interruption of contact is called "up conversion". In the new asymmetric debounce technique, for a given sampling rate regarding electrical signal activity, only one contact pair sampling is required to make the electrical signal to recognize that it is a real signal (or good signal) in the case of down conversion. . Conversely, in the case of up-conversion, in order to recognize the interruption of activity, sampling of extinction, i.e., no electrical signal is detected, must be sampled 39 times. If an electrical signal is detected at any time prior to the 39th sampling, the audio signal resumes as if it had never been interrupted (values 1 and 39 are chosen by way of example, and asymmetric debounce techniques generally use very different values, Thus any suitable value can be used). Thus, it is possible to avoid an undue restart of the audio signal. Thus, in an embodiment of the present invention, if the user does not work on the sheet within a predetermined time, the audio signal will be restarted and the previous audio signal previously played to the user will not be continuous.

The removable template adapted to hold the seat in the base unit can include a movable element therein. The movable element may be the same as or different from the movable element described above. Output may be provided when the user applies pressure to the seat or when the user moves the movable element in the removable template. The user has at least two different ways to interact with the interactive device even though a single removable template is on the base unit.

In these embodiments the interactive device provides appropriate output in response to coloring or marking on the sheet. This enhances the user's creativity, self-expression, imagination, and the like. An action that is simply a button press can produce educational, valuable, fun, and / or user-friendly output. The user engages in interesting and fun activities while the interactive device teaches and reinforces educational concepts to the user.

An interactive device is shown in FIG. 8 that includes a removable template that can hold a seat in a base unit. The removable template 14 includes a hinge that couples the first portion 22 and the second portion (not shown). Both the first part and the second part will be in the form of a frame. They can all be actually planar in shape. The second part is below the first part 22. The second portion may comprise a window of approximately the same size as the window of the first portion through which pressure may be applied to the major surface under the removable template 14. In addition, the first portion and the second portion may form a shell.

The first part 22 has a frame defining a window. The user may lift the first portion 22 by holding the protruding portion 22a formed in the first portion 22. Lifting the first portion causes an actuator (not shown) at the bottom of the removable template 14 to apply pressure to an electrical element (eg, a switch) under the removable template 14. In the speaker 18, the voice of "Place a new coloring page" comes out. At this time, some electrical elements may be locked until the user presses an indicator (eg, a green "Go" circle) that the sheet is loaded and informs the base unit about the particular sheet above it. The user can place the sheet 27 between the first portion and the second portion. The user can then bring the first portion 22 next to the second portion to lock the removable template. The sheet 27 can be seen through the window of the first portion 22. In the speaker 18, the voice, "Let's color while learning ABC," flows.

The user presses the "Go" circle 24 (or identifier) printed on the sheet 27 to inform the base unit that the sheet 27 is on it. You will hear a voice from the speaker saying "Press Go circle at the painted face". The user then presses the "Go" circle with a crayon or finger. Pressing the "Go" circle activates the electrical elements below the main surface. When the electrical element under the "Go" circle is activated, the base unit knows that the particular sheet 27 shown in FIG. 8 is above the base unit 12. When the user presses another part of the sheet 27 to activate an electrical element assigned to another sheet or removable template, the user may press the "new page" button 15. When this button is pressed, the interactive device can reset itself and continue to say to the user, "Press the green Go circle."

In this example, the sheet 27 contains many printing elements. The printing element on the sheet 27 shown in FIG. 8 includes a capital picture P, the word PIE, and a picture of a frog eating a pie slice. The user can color any of these printing elements with crayons or marks. When the user paints the printing element, pressure is applied to the sheet 27 and the major surface below the sheet 27. The applied pressure activates one or more electrical elements (not shown) under the printed element to be painted. After one or more electrical elements are activated, audio output corresponding to printing elements painted by the user is provided to the user through the speaker 18. For example, when the user colors the word "PIE", a synthesized voice comes out from the speaker "Pi, Pi is P-I-E." In another case, when the user coloring a picture of a frog eating a piece of pie, the sound of the character shown in the picture eating a piece of pie may be provided to the user.

The seat can be used for the interactive device while the interactive device is in different modes of operation. In one mode of operation, the interactive device may quiz the user. For example, the interactive device may ask the user where the letter P is. In response, the user can start coloring the letter P and the interactive device responds to the user's choice to "yes!" To compliment voices. In other modes of operation, the user may apply pressure to other printing elements and different songs may be provided to the user. For example, the user may color the ant picture and the letter A. In response to such coloring, the interactive apparatus can each play a different song when different printing elements are painted. This entertains the user and allows the user to continue using the interactive device.

An example script table related to sheet 27 is shown in FIG. 11. As shown in FIG. 11, different audio outputs may be provided as the user selects different printing elements. In FIG. 11, "dt" means, for example, "down touch" over a printing element, "drag" means the user drags a tool, for example across a printing element, and "sfx" means "sound effect". "Symbolizes.

After the user finishes talking with the sheet 27, the sheet 27 can be replaced with a sheet containing other printing elements. For example, the sheet 27 shown in FIG. 8 may be replaced with a sheet showing an uppercase letter “A” and an ant picture. The user can notify the base unit that another sheet is on the base unit or the base unit can automatically know. The processor of the base unit can specify the electrical element such that a specific output for the printing element on the new sheet is generated. For example, when a user paints a picture of an ant on a new sheet, a synthesized voice from the speaker may be heard, such as "ant writes A-N-T."

The removable template shown in FIG. 8 is equipped with a movable element 19. Each movable element 19 is arranged in the frame of the second part and through the opening in the frame of the first part. Each movable element 19 is a button that the user can press. In an exemplary embodiment, the movable element 19 on the left side of the removable template 14 may be shaped like squares, triangles, stars, and the like. The movable element 19 may also be colored in bright colors such as green, red, and yellow. The movable element 19 on the right side may also have various colors and may be in the shape of a water lily. When the user presses one of the movable elements 19, the synthesized voice from the speaker 18 may relate to the name and color of the shape of the movable element 19 pressed by the user.

Certain features of the removable template of the type shown in FIG. 8 may be described with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B. FIG. 9A shows a removable template with a first portion 14a and a second portion 14b tied together by a hinge 29. In some embodiments, it may be a "breakable" hinge that can be easily restored again by snapping the hinge portions together. In a typical breakable hinge, the first template portion fits well in the groove of the second template portion so that the two portions fit together. For example, children can easily damage the frame type template at the hinge. Thus, the breakable, replaceable hinge can allow children to "damage" the hinge and allow the parent to restore the template back to reuse.

The first portion 14a includes a number of openings 28a, 28b that accommodate the top of the movable elements 19a, 19b in the second portion 14b of the removable template 14. In some embodiments, openings 28a and 28b may be configured in relation to each other with movable elements 19a and 19b. For example, each movable element 19a, 19b may have a shape of a circle, a triangle, a rectangle, or the like. The openings 28 and 28b in which they are arranged may have a slightly larger shape of circle, triangle, rectangle, or the like. When the removable template is in the closed position, the tops of the movable elements 19a and 19b are in and accessible to the openings 28a and 28b of the first portion 14a. Thus, the movable element 19a, 19b can be pressed by the user when the removable template 14 is in the closed position.

When the user presses the movable element 19a, the movable element 19a can move downward. The bottom of the movable element 19a may be in contact with the major surface 35 of the base unit. As shown, the bottom may have a narrower width than the top of the movable element 19a. The electrical element P is below the main surface 35. If a force F is applied to the movable element 19a, the force is also applied to the major surface 35 of the base unit. The movable element 19a and the electrical element P then interact with each other. For example, the electrical element P can be a pressure sensitive switch that is activated when pressed. The lower part of the other movable element 19b that is not pressed does not contact the major surface 35 of the base unit 12. Thus, the electrical element below the major surface 35 can be selectively activated by the application of pressure to the major surface 35 by the user. The processor in the base unit can determine if the electrical component is activated and can detect the proper output of the movable element moved by the user.

FIG. 9B illustrates the removable template shown in FIG. 9A in an open state. FIG. In FIG. 9B, windows 33a and 33b formed of frame-like first and second portions 14a and 14b of the removable template 14 are shown. Two protrusions 7a, 7b extend from the first and second portions 14a, 14b. When the template 14 is in the open state, the protrusion 7b activates a pressure sensing switch (not shown) on the inner edge of the edge region (not shown) of the base unit so that the base unit can be frame-type template 14. It is found on its base unit and in the open state. When the template 14 is closed, another protrusion 7a may activate another switch on the same inner edge of the edge region to indicate that the template is closed. Thus, in another embodiment of the present invention, the base unit can automatically determine if the frame type template is on the base unit and can also determine whether the template is in an open state or a closed state.

In addition, a shallow groove 35 may be formed in the second portion 14b. The outer edge of the shallow groove 35 may be slightly larger than the standard paper sheet size (eg, about 8 × 11 inches) so that a sheet of paper is placed in the groove 35 and properly aligned with the removable template 14. When the removable template 14 is in the closed state, a sheet between the first and second portions 14a, 14b can be seen through the window 33a in the first portion 14a. On the inner surface of the first portion 14a of the gasket (not shown), it can be provided just outside the edge defining the window 33a, in order to further secure the sheet in a suitable position in the removable template 14. have. The gasket may be composed of an elastomeric material and may hold the sheet in its groove 35 so that the sheet does not move. As mentioned above, proper placement of the sheet is desirable to ensure that any printing elements on the sheet are properly aligned with the electrical elements below the major surface of the base unit.

9C shows a portion of a frame type template with a gasket. 9C shows the first template portion 14a and the second template portion 14b. The gasket 8 is disposed and fixed on the first template portion 14a. In this example, the inner surface of the first template portion 14a is flat while the inner surface of the second template portion 14b is curved with respect to the inner surface of the first template portion 14a. The gasket 8 may also have a surface that is curved with respect to the opposite surface thereof. The curved surface of the gasket 8 and the second template portion 14b may secure the sheet 5 towards the top surface (not shown) of the base unit. Since the sheet 5 is progressively inclined toward the top surface of the base unit, the user can see a "hole" in the sheet 5 near the edge of the sheet 5 and near the first and second template portions 14a, 14b. "Less often.

The removable template that secures the seat to the base unit may have other features as well as other features as described above. For example, the removable template embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9C has a shell shape design. In another embodiment, the removable template may be a template that holds the sheet with the printing elements to the base unit. For example, the removable template can be composed of the second portion 14b without the first portion 14a. In addition, instead of the groove 35, parallel guide rails are formed opposite the frame-like first portion 14a or the second portion 14b. The user can insert a paper sheet into the guide rail to guide the face to the appropriate position of the removable template. In another embodiment, the window 33b of the second portion 14a may be replaced with a flexible membrane.

In some embodiments, computer code that may be used in an interactive device may be transmitted (eg, downloaded) from a remote server computer to a user. The code may be for producing different outputs (or instructions for playing outputs) for different removable templates or sheets. For example, the code may be for audio or video output generated by the interactive device. Code for creating a sheet with different printing elements can also be sent to the user. The sheet can be printed at the user side using a printer. After the sheet is printed, the sheet can be used in an interactive apparatus.

A system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention can be described with reference to FIG. The system includes a host site 109 and a user side 120. The user side 120 may include, for example, a home, a school, a workplace, and the like. The host side 109 and the user side 120 are connected via a communication medium 107.

The host side 109 may include a server computer 105 operated by a host company. In this embodiment, the host side 109 includes a server computer 105 that can access the content database 103 and the personal profile database 101.

Server computer 105 is generally a power computer or a computer cluster. For example, a server computer may be a large mainframe, a minicomputer cluster, or a group of servers functioning as a unit. In one embodiment, the server computer may be a database server connected to a web server. The server computer can act as a single computer servicing the requests of one or more client computers. For example, one or more client computers 109 on different user sides may communicate with the server computer via the communication medium 107 and optionally one or more Internet Service Providers (ISPs) (not shown). Client computers generally have less memory and less computational power than server computers 105. Server computer 105 may be located remotely from client computer 109.

Server computer 105 may include computer code for performing any suitable function. For example, server computer 105 may include code for updating a user profile in a user profile database, code for detecting data in any suitable database, and code for sending data to any individual. Computer code may also be provided to select content for the content package, assemble the content package, and send the content package to a user. The content package may include code for audio output, code for graphic output, code for instructions to play audio or graphic code, code for printing a sheet with print elements, code for personal information, and the like.

The server computer 105 and client computer communicate via a communication medium such as the Internet, more specifically the World Wide Web (WWW). General communication protocols that can be used by the server computer 105 and the client computer include hypertext communication protocol (HTTP), terminal communication protocol / Internet protocol (TCP / IP), or other protocols.

Server computer 105 may have data representing a web site. The web site may include any suitable number of web pages and is preferably intended for users 18 years of age or younger. On a web site, a user (or someone, such as a parent of another user) can create a user profile, set optional preferences, play a game, and select content to construct a content package.

The personal profile database 101 includes user personal preferences and information about the user. The user profile information includes basic information about the user. Basic information includes the user's age, hobbies, address, phone number, email address, school, teacher, parents, phone number, and so on. User profile information also includes information regarding user preferences. User preferences include preferences, favorite relatives, favorite teachers, favorite songs, favorite sports, favorite foods, favorite cartoons, and more.

Information in the personal profile database 101 may be downloaded to the user side 120 and then transmitted to the interactive device 113. In this way, the user's knowledge can be personalized individually. For example, the user profile may indicate that the user likes sports. Math problems or sentences related to sports may be selected for such a user and downloaded by the user for use in an interactive device.

The content database 103 can include any suitable content. Content includes information that can be used in an interactive device. Examples of such information include problems (eg, questions, puzzles, riddles, quizzes, etc.), songs, games, hints, music, facts, greetings, and messages (eg, help, encouragement, attention, or error messages). . The content database 103 may also include electronic map codes for different removable templates and different sheets. In addition, computer code for the sheet containing the printing elements may be present in the content database 103. The code can be downloaded to user side 120 and then printed using a printer on that user side 120. The sheet can include any suitable printing element, including characters, letters, numbers, animals, games, and the like.

The content in the content database 103 may take any suitable form. For example, the content may be in the form of compressed data or in the form of uncompressed data. The content may be in the form of a sound file such as an MP3 file, a WAV file, and a musical instrument digital interface (MIDI). The content may also be in the form of graphics files such as video files, image files (eg, bitmaps), and text files.

At the user side 120, the client computer 109 can be operatively connected to the linker device 111 and the printer 115. Client computer 109 may be a general personal computer running a Windows ^™ based operating system. The linker device 111 may be connected with the client computer 109 via a wireless or wired link (eg, a cable). Interactive device 113 may receive computer code from server computer 105 via client computer 109 via linker device 111.

The linker device 111 may be any suitable device capable of transferring data between the client computer 109 and the interactive device 113. The linker device 111 may be a wireless transceiver such as a wireless RF (radio frequency) transceiver or an infrared transceiver. However, in the preferred embodiment, the linker device 111 can read information from and transfer information to and from the transferable information storage medium. In a general embodiment, the removable information storage medium is a cartridge that can be inserted into the base unit of the linker device 111 and the interactive device 113. Using the linker device 111, data can be sent directly or indirectly to the interactive device.

The system shown in FIG. 10 has many advantages. For example, by using the system shown in FIG. 10, a large number of different sheets with different printing elements can be downloaded to the user side. Computer code (eg, electronic map) used to reprogram the interactive device for a new sheet may also be downloaded. Thus, the user is not limited to using only a particular set of sheets available on local storage, for example. The user can access new and different content at any time, so the interactive device makes the user more interesting.

In some embodiments, as the child grows up, the interactive device may, along with other types of devices, constitute a set of devices that will be used to educate the child. Each device (eg, an electronic toy) may be designed for teaching children of a certain age range. For example, the interactive device according to an embodiment of the present invention may be designed to help educate children aged 3 to 6 years. Other devices, such as the embodiments described and disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,142,784 (assigned to the same assignee as the present invention and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety), can be used to educate children ages 7-12. . Still other devices can be used to educate children, such as 12-16 years old or 1-3 years old. Such a set of devices may be used together as part of a personal education service, and thus children may have various types of devices that can complement and assist one another with respect to their child's education as they grow.

The terms and expressions used herein are for the purpose of description and not of limitation. And it is to be understood that the use of such terms and expressions is not intended to exclude the equivalents or portions of the features described herein, and that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention as claimed in the claims. . Moreover, any one or more features in any embodiment of the invention may be combined with any one or more features of another embodiment of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention. Can be. For example, an embodiment of any interactive apparatus with any suitable features described with reference to FIGS. 1-9 may be used in the system shown in FIG. 10 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (38)

As an interactive apparatus, A base unit comprising a substantially flat surface and an array of electrical elements below said surface; A processor operably connected to the array of electrical elements; Memory operably coupled to the processor; An audio output device operably connected to the processor; And A removable template on the surface of the base unit Including, The removable template includes a movable element over an electrical element belonging to the array of electrical elements, the electrical element being designated to provide an audio output associated with the movable element. Interactive device. The method of claim 1, And the electrical element array comprises a switch array. The method of claim 1, And the audio output device comprises a speaker. The method of claim 1, And the audio output device is inside the base unit. The method of claim 1, And the detachable template is suitable for educating a user with respect to numbers or letters. The method of claim 1, The base unit includes an edge region at least partially defining the surface, and the removable template is configured to fit snugly to the edge region in cooperation with the edge region. The method of claim 1, And the interactive device is a toy. The method of claim 1, And the detachable template comprises a substantially flat sheet of molded plastic. The method of claim 1, And the detachable template includes a stationary region, the movable element moving independently of the stationary portion and having a different structure and appearance than the stationary portion. The method of claim 1, And the detachable template includes a stationary portion and the movable element includes a portion moving in a direction parallel to the plane of the detachable template. The method of claim 1, And the memory comprises a reprogrammable memory. The method of claim 1, And the speech device further comprises a speech synthesizer. The method of claim 1, The base unit further comprises a slot and a transferable information storage medium removable within the slot. The method of claim 1, The interactive device further comprising a set of removable templates. The method of claim 1, The removable template includes (i) a hinge; (Ii) a first portion comprising a frame; And (iii) a second portion comprising a frame, wherein the first portion and the second portion are connected to each other by the hinge. The method of claim 1, The removable template includes (i) a hinge; (Ii) a first portion comprising a frame and an aperture in the frame; And (iii) a second portion comprising a frame, wherein the movable element is disposed within the frame of the second portion, the first portion and the second portion are connected to each other by the hinge, and the movement And the enableable element is pushed out through the opening in the frame of the first portion when the removable template is in the closed state. The method of claim 1, The removable template includes (i) a hinge; (Ii) a first portion comprising a frame; And (iii) a second portion comprising a frame, wherein the first portion and the second portion are connected to each other by the hinge, The interactive device further comprises a sheet disposed between the first portion and the second portion of the removable template, The sheet includes a plurality of print elements disposed over a selection electrical element in the array of electrical elements, wherein the selection electrical element is designated to retrieve audio output associated with the printing element. Interactive device. The method of claim 1, The interactive device further comprising a selecting device for selecting an operating mode. The method of claim 1, And the movable element comprises letters or numbers. The method of claim 1, And an asymmetric debounce technique that determines whether a user interacts with the sheet within a predetermined time period. Server computer; Client computer; And The interactive apparatus of claim 1 System comprising. Server computer; A client computer in communication with the server computer; A linker device coupled to the client computer; And The interactive apparatus of claim 1 System comprising. As an interactive device, A base unit comprising a surface, a switch array below the surface, a memory, a processor coupled to the switch array and the processor, a slot, and a speaker; A removable information storage medium detachably insertable into the slot; And A removable template on the surface of the base unit Including, The removable template includes a fixed portion and a plurality of movable elements, each of the movable elements being movable with the fixed portion fixed and having a different structure from the fixed portion, wherein the plurality of movable elements Is disposed over a set of switches in the switch array, each switch of the switch set being designated to provide an output associated with the movable element disposed over the switch. Interactive device. The method of claim 23, An interactive device comprising a set of removable templates. The method of claim 23, And the removable information storage medium is a data cartridge. The method of claim 23, And the removable information storage medium comprises a flash memory. The method of claim 23, The base unit includes an edge region surrounding the surface of the base unit, and wherein the removable template is configured to fit snugly to the edge region in cooperation with the edge region. The method of claim 23, And the removable information storage medium comprises a flash memory. The method of claim 23, And the interactive device is an educational toy. Server computer; Client computer; And The interactive apparatus of claim 23 System comprising. Server computer; A client computer in communication with the server computer; A linker device coupled to the client computer; And The interactive apparatus of claim 23 System comprising. As a method of using an interactive device, Providing a base unit comprising a substantially flat surface; Placing a removable template on the substantially flat surface; Moving a movable element into the removable template; And Generating an audio output associated with the movable element in response to the movement of the movable element Method of using an interactive device comprising a. The method of claim 32, The movable element is a first movable element and the removable template is a first removable template, How to use the interactive device Removing the first removable template from the base unit; Placing a second removable template comprising a second movable element on the base unit; Moving the second movable element; Generating an audio output associated with the second movable element in response to the movement of the second movable element. Method of using an interactive device comprising a. The method of claim 32, The removable template includes a frame, How to use the interactive device Securing a sheet comprising a printing element against the surface of the base unit using the removable template; Marking the print element; And Generating an output related to the print element How to use the interactive device further comprising. The method of claim 32, And said marking step comprises coloring. A removable template used on the base unit surface of an interactive apparatus, Fixed area; And A movable element that is structurally different from the fixed area and moves independently of the fixed area and includes a top that can be moved by a user and a bottom that can contact the surface in response to movement by the user Including, The base unit generates an audio output related to the movable element. Detachable template. The method of claim 36, And a second portion having a hinge, a first portion including a frame and an opening in the frame, and a frame including the fixed area and the movable element, wherein the first portion and the second portion are the Connected to each other by a hinge, the movable elements being pushed out through the opening in the frame of the first part Detachable template. The method of claim 36, And a plurality of the movable elements, wherein each of the movable elements has a bright color.