Portable electronic faxing, scanning, copying, and printing device
A lightweight, battery operated, portable, personal electronic device capable of faxing, scanning, printing and copying media as a standalone device or in cooperation with other electronic devices including PCs, mobile telephones, PDAs, etc. is provided. The device automatically detects the presence of fax-capable devices and reconfigures the software for compatibility with the fax-capable device eliminating the need for user programming. The device's ergonomic design, intrinsic physical stability, and same side paper feeds and user interface provide use in work areas having limited space. The device includes unidirectional, independent pathways for original and recording media such that paper jams are minimized. Portability is maximized through innovative power management software and hardware.
This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation of the U.S. non-provisional patent application entitled “Portable Electronic Faxing, Scanning, Copying, and Printing Device”, having Ser. No. 10/884,594, filed Jul. 3, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,443,547, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates to electronic devices for scanning, printing, faxing, and/or copying media. More specifically, the present invention relates to lightweight, aesthetic, ergonomic, inexpensive, stable, low power consumption, portable electronic devices capable of efficiently and quickly performing independent and simultaneous scanning, printing, faxing, and true copying functions without a proclivity for paper jams. Although the present invention is capable of operating as a completely standalone device, it is also designed to operate in conjunction with external microprocessor-based devices including, but not limited to, desktop personal computers (“PCs”), laptop PCs, handheld personal data assistants (“PDAs”), and mobile telephones (e.g., cellular telephones).
Heretofore, individuals and businesses have used a wide variety of devices for scanning, printing, faxing, and copying media. Although these devices were originally created and designed for non-portable office use, the consumer drive towards lower cost, smaller size, multiple use personal devices, as well as the increased use of wireless technology, has created a greater demand for compact portable devices capable of performing one or more of the aforementioned functions.
It is well known that both portable and non-portable electronic devices exist for performing dedicated functions such as faxing, scanning, printing, and copying media. Combination devices, which are capable of performing two or more of these functions, are also commercially available. However, the majority of these non-portable devices are designed for use in an office “desktop” environment. As such, these devices are not optimized for stability, small size, low power usage, “on-the-go” convenience.
The following references, which are discussed below, were found to relate to the field of portable electronic devices having scanning, printing, faxing, and/or copying functions: Bishop et al. U.S. Pat. No. D368,259 (“Bishop”), Tsukamoto et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,886,795 (“Tsukamoto”), Aihara et al. U.S. Pat. No. 6,011,634 (“Aihara”), Petteruti et al. U.S. Pat. No. 6,609,844 (“Petteruti”), Tuli U.S. Pat. No. 6,285,469 (“the '469 patent”), Tuli U.S. Pat. No. 5,420,697 (“the '697 patent”), and Tuli U.S. Pat. No. 6,154,242 (“the '242 patent”).
Tsukamoto describes a facsimile apparatus that enables manual manipulation of one or more sheets of recording media while the apparatus is performing a faxing function. Tsukamoto discloses a device that allows a user to hold the communication line during manual manipulation of the recording media such that a discontinuous feed of such media does not cause an error in the facsimile communication.
Aihara also discloses a facsimile apparatus. This apparatus is intended for portable use and allows image data intended for facsimile transmission to be displayed on an integral liquid crystal display (“LCD”). Furthermore, the apparatus disclosed in Aihara allows a user to selectively edit the image data intended for facsimile transmission, thereby allowing the user to transmit only the necessary or desired portion of the image data.
Petteruti discloses a portable printer capable of printing data on either pre-cut paper or rolls of paper. The apparatus disclosed in Petteruti also includes an automatic print alignment technique that allows the device to print on print media having varying widths.
The '469 patent discloses a portable device for performing scanning, printing, faxing, and copying functions. The device is compact and has fold out stability arms, without which the device is unstable in its upright operating mode. Both the printing and scanning functions rely on a single roller mechanism for handling the recording and original media, respectively. The single roller transports the original and recording media through the device independently or simultaneously, as required by the user.
The '697 patent also discloses a portable device for performing scanning, printing, faxing, and copying functions. The disclosed device includes a thermal print head, wherein the thermal print head and the scan head are located on opposite sides of a single roller mechanism. Similar to the device disclosed in the '469 patent as discussed above, both the printing and scanning functions rely on a single roller mechanism for handling the recording and original media, respectively. Also, the single roller transports the original and recording media through the device independently or simultaneously, as required by the user.
Similar to the '697 patent, the '242 patent also discloses a portable device that incorporates a thermal print head and is capable of performing scanning, printing, faxing, and copying functions. This patent further discloses an arrangement of narrow thermal print heads for use with wide format thermal printers.
In light of the prior art, a portion of which is discussed above, there exists a clear need for a lightweight, aesthetic, ergonomic, inexpensive, stable, user-friendly, multi-communication protocol, low power consumption, portable device capable of efficiently and quickly performing independent and simultaneous scanning, printing, faxing, and true copying functions without a proclivity for paper jams.
In addition, a need exists for a portable device capable of performing independent scanning, printing, faxing, and copying functions that allows both the original and recording media to be input on the same side of the device without obstructing the device's user friendly user interface.
Further, it would be desirable to achieve a portable device capable of performing independent scanning, printing, faxing, and copying functions that is also designed to optimize battery life.
Furthermore, a need exists for a portable device capable of performing independent scanning, printing, faxing, and copying functions via two completely independent paper feeds, in lieu of a single paper feed, to allow separate functions to be performed simultaneously, rather than relying on a first function to complete in order to “free up” a single paper feed.
In addition, it would be useful to obtain a portable device capable of performing scanning, printing, faxing, and copying functions that performs a true copy function in lieu of simulating a copying function by first scanning the document to be copied to memory, and, second, printing the data stored in memory.
Also, a need exists for a portable device for scanning, printing, faxing, and copying that is inherently stable despite its small weight and size, and is not difficult to use or prone to breakage and paper jams.
Further, there is a requirement in the art for portable devices for scanning, printing, faxing, and copying that have full compatibility with all existing communication standards including, but not limited to, RS-232, 802.11, Universal Serial Bus (“USB”), Infrared Data Association® (“IrDA®”), Bluetooth®, General Packet Radio Service (“GPRS”), Ethernet, and Ultra Wide Band (“UWB”), thereby rendering these devices compatible with any external electronic device communicating via these commonly known and used communication protocols.
Finally, a need exists for portable devices for scanning, printing, copying, and faxing that do not require manual configuration of integral communication ports, thereby enabling unsophisticated users to obtain ease of operation and user-friendliness.
Thus, in light of the prior art discussed herein, there is a clear need for an improved portable, multi-function, personal electronic device. More specifically, a need exists for a compact, lightweight, structurally stable, energy efficient, aesthetic, ergonomic, inexpensive, user-friendly, multi-communication protocol, and portable electronic device that provides multiple functions such as faxing, scanning, printing, and/or copying media.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe foregoing need is addressed by the teachings of the present invention, which relates generally to an improved portable, multi-function, personal electronic device. Specifically, the portable electronic device of the present invention allows any user, whether computer savvy or computer illiterate, to perform multiple functions (e.g., fax, copy, print, scan, etc.) outside a typical office environment by providing an inexpensive, lightweight, portable electronic device that is compatible with the majority of commonly known and used communication protocols, does not require programming, has the stability to be used on irregular surfaces (e.g., the passenger seat of a vehicle, a person's lap, etc.), allows multiple operations to be performed simultaneously, and operates on low levels of power such that the device may be used extensively between recharging of the battery.
To achieve portability, the electronic device of the present invention accepts a DC power supply from a variety of standard DC power supplies known in the art including, but not limited to, universal AC input wall-mount DC power supplies, automobile cigarette lighter adapters, airplane power adapters, etc. Power management hardware and software is incorporated in the design of the present invention to minimize power consumption in an effort to maximize the length of use between recharging of the battery.
To maximize the communication protocol compatibility of the present invention, it includes a multitude of integral communication ports including a Public Switched Telephone Network (“PSTN”) port (e.g., a Registered Jack-11 (“RJ-11”) port), RS-232 port, USB port, and IrDA® port. Also, the device is designed for use with multiple interchangeable, accessory communication modules. Each interchangeable accessory module offers compatibility with an existing, commonly known and used communication protocol that is not integral to the electronic device including, but not limited to, 802.11, Bluetooth®, GPRS, Ethernet, UWB, etc. The present invention is also designed for compatibility with accessory modules to be designed in the future as new communication protocols are created or existing, lesser-known communication protocols become more widely used. Alternate embodiments of the present invention are envisioned in which any one or more of the accessory module communication ports of the preferred embodiment of the present invention are included as integral communication ports rather than accessory module ports.
Both the integral and interchangeable communication ports allow the present invention to exchange data with external devices such as PCs, laptop PCs, PDAs, etc. In addition, these ports allow the device to perform fax functions via external fax-capable devices equipped for one of the aforementioned communication protocols by simply connecting it to the appropriate port. Furthermore, the present invention minimizes the level of computer savvy required to operate the electronic device by automatically detecting a connected, external fax-capable device and automatically reconfiguring the internal settings of the electronic device to communicate with the external fax-capable device without requiring re-programming by a user. Similarly, the electronic device also automatically recognizes the insertion of a new accessory module, identifies the accessory module, and automatically reconfigures the internal settings of electronic device to allow it to communicate through the accessory module without requiring re-programming by the user.
For increased portability, the present invention is designed to be extremely lightweight and contained in an intrinsically stable, ergonomic housing. For example, the housing of the preferred embodiment of the present invention resembles has a varying height of approximately 1.9 inches to 5 inches, a width of approximately 11.6 inches, and a depth of approximately 5 inches and weighs approximately 3 pounds.
In addition, the geometry of the housing is designed to provide stability during portable, non-standard office use, incorporating ratios of width to depth and width to height selected to lower the center of gravity of the electronic device. As a result, the housing exhibits a low profile for stable operation in work areas having limited space and/or irregular surfaces (e.g., the passenger seat of a vehicle, a person's lap, etc.) and eliminates the need for additional structural support members such as legs or extensions, which may be cumbersome to set up and which may fail during the intended use of the electronic device.
In addition to stability, the housing is designed to mechanically support internally housed electronic and electromechanical components in a manner that facilitates paper handling and minimizes the occurrence of paper jams. For example, the two independent, vertically staggered, lower and upper paper ports are designed such that both original and recording media are fed into the electronic device at the front side of the device. This requirement eliminates the need for a user to peer over or rotate the electronic device to insert either the original or recording media into the rear side of the device, thereby minimizing the risk of a paper jam due to inadvertent or intentional movement or jostling of the electronic device.
The location of the internal components also requires media to be fed into the electronic device to the left of the front face of the device such that the user interface is not obstructed. This requirement also acts to minimize paper jams, as the user does not need to disrupt original or recording media in order to view or enter commands via the user interface. This is particularly important in small, portable devices, because jostling the machine during media insertion or movement of the inserted media to access the user interface can easily create problems with media alignment, thereby increasing the likelihood of paper jams.
In addition to minimizing paper jams, the same side paper feeds, parallel paper pathways, and simultaneous scanning and printing minimize the required workspace around the unit. Due to the well-designed spatial arrangement of the internal components, as well as the prescribed method of operation, the effective work area required for copying a document is only slightly larger than the size of the document, thereby providing true “on-the-go” performance.
The present invention is further equipped with lower and upper paper port detection sensors that provide validation information regarding the position and alignment of media fed into the respective lower or upper paper port. This position and alignment data initiates the auto-copy function, which automatically photocopies a document properly inserted and aligned in the lower paper port when recording media is present and properly aligned in the upper paper port. This position and alignment data also synchronizes the scanning and printing processes during copying via control of a mechanical trigger.
The mechanical trigger maintains the upper paper port roller gear in an engaged or disengaged state with respect to the roller rotation mechanism of the present invention without the need for continuous power. More specifically, a temporary power pulse of the appropriate polarity (i.e., the engage or disengage polarity) is applied to an actuator that moves the mechanical trigger until its maximum compression point is exceeded, causing the spring force of the mechanical trigger to move the upper paper port roller gear away from its present state (i.e., engaged or disengaged) to its opposite state. The electrical signal to the actuator is removed after the spring force of the mechanical trigger changes the state of the upper paper port roller gear.
Relying on the mechanical spring action of the mechanical trigger to drive the upper paper port roller gear to its engaged or disengaged position eliminates the need for a continuous electrical signal to the upper paper port roller gear, thereby minimizing the power consumed by electronic device. If engagement of the upper paper port roller gear must be sustained by continuously energizing a solenoid, as is commonly performed in the art, its continuous power consumption drastically reduces the length of time that the electronic device may operate on battery power without recharging. This reduction in use would severely limit the portability of the electronic device, as the device will require more frequent recharging. Therefore, advantageously, the present invention is designed to supply a temporary low voltage, low current power pulse to temporarily modify the position of the mechanical trigger until its mechanical spring action changes the state of the upper paper port roller gear.
To further maximize battery life, the present invention includes a print power management algorithm. This algorithm saves power by analyzing the document to be printed prior to printing such that the power consumed during the print function is minimized. First, the algorithm determines the maximum number of elements that can be burned simultaneously in all quadrants of the media to be printed. Thereafter, the algorithm senses the print head temperature and adjusts the burn time, if possible, based upon the instantaneous print head temperature. These two variables are analyzed to minimize the total burn time for any given document, thereby minimizing the power required for the print function.
Finally, the present invention includes a true copying function. In other words, the electronic device of the present invention prints the data scanned from the media being copied virtually simultaneously with scanning. Due to the device's unique design including, but not limited to, the incorporation of two independent rollers and two independent paper paths, it is not necessary to wait until the document to be copied is scanned to memory to free up a roller and/or paper path to perform printing of the scanned data.
Thus, as is apparent from the summary of the invention, it is an object of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for a portable electronic device that allows both the original and recording media to be input on the same side of the device without obstructing the device's user friendly, user interface.
Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for a portable electronic device that is also designed to optimize battery life.
Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for a portable electronic device capable of performing independent functions via two completely independent paper feeds such that separate functions may be performed simultaneously.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for a portable electronic device capable of performing a true copy function rather than sequential scan and print functions.
Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for a lightweight portable electronic device that is inherently stable despite its small size.
In addition, it is an object of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for a portable, lightweight electronic device that is not prone to breakage or paper jams despite its small size.
Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide methods and apparatus for a portable electronic device compatible with existing communication standards such as RS-232, 802.11, USB, IrDA®, Bluetooth®, GPRS, Ethernet, and UWB without requiring a user to reprogram the portable electronic device to switch between various communication protocols.
Other objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification.
A further understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reference to a preferred embodiment set forth in the illustrations of the accompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiment is merely exemplary of systems for carrying out the present invention, both the organization and method of operation of the invention, in general, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be more easily understood by reference to the drawings and the following description. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of this invention, which is set forth with particularity in the claims as appended or as subsequently amended, but merely to clarify and exemplify the invention.
For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following drawings in which:
As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein. However, techniques, systems and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein, which define the scope of the present invention. The following presents a detailed description of the preferred embodiment (as well as some alternative embodiments) of the present invention.
Referring initially to
User interface 112 allows a user to operate and program electronic device 110. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, input is accepted from a user via keypad 114, which includes ten (10) numeric keys 118 (i.e., the non-shaded keys) and six (6) function keys 120 (i.e., the shaded keys). Numeric keys 118 represent the numbers 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 and allow users to enter telephone numbers (e.g., when performing the fax function), as well as other information such as number of copies, menu selections, resolution, etc. In contrast, function keys 120 have dedicated functions including power, scan, fax, copy, print, and menu. The menu function allows the user to adjust settings such as fax resolution, copy quantity, date, time, transmitted fax information, etc. In an alternate embodiment, one or more keys included in function keys 120 are programmable and may be defined by the user.
Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention includes sixteen (16) numeric and function keys 118 and 120, respectively, it should be noted that the present invention could be implemented with any quantity of numeric keys 118 and function keys 120. Alternatively, the present invention may be implemented with any one of a large quantity of non-keypad user interfaces known in the art including, but not limited to, touch screens, screens with styli, voice activated interfaces, etc.
User interface 112 also includes display 116, which allows electronic device 110 to display device related information such as operating statuses and prompts to a user. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, display 116 is a monochrome or color alphanumeric LCD. Status displays include, but are not limited to, dialing status, scanning percent complete, uploading percent complete, number of total pages transmitted by fax, page number of the page under transmission, page number of the page being received, page number of the page being printed, page number of the page being copied, electronic device 110 statuses (e.g., error, normal, paperjam, etc.), telephone line status (e.g., busy, off-hook, etc.), etc. Prompt displays may include, but are not limited to, insert paper, enter telephone number, enter copy quantity, etc.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, user interface 112 also includes audio device 422 in the form of a piezo-electric transducer, as discussed below with respect to
Still referring to
Lamp 140 provides status indications to the user including power port 122 status, battery charging status, and battery charged status. That is, lamp 140 is not illuminated when power is not connected to power module 124, and is illuminated in either a blinking or constant state of illumination when power is connected to power module 124. A blinking state of illumination indicates that power is connected to power port 122 and batteries 512 (
Also as depicted in
In addition to the integrated PSTN port 126, RS-232 port 128, USB port 130, and IrDA® port 134, electronic device 110 includes accessory module bay 142, which is designed to accept a variety of accessory modules 132. In the lowest cost model of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, accessory module 132 is replaced with an empty cover that protects the internal accessory module bay 142 from environmental conditions such as dirt, dust, moisture, etc. In a higher cost model, or when a user purchases one or more accessory modules 132 as optional equipment, each accessory module 132 allows electronic device 110 to communicate via one of the commonly used communication standards including, but not limited to, 802.11, Bluetooth®, GPRS, Ethernet, and UWB. In addition, electronic device 110 has been designed with the capacity to accept and identify communication modules for communication protocols not yet known or commonly used in the art as discussed in detail below with respect to
When two or more accessory modules 132 are employed, each accessory module 132 is simply inserted to meet the communication needs of the user. For example, if a user wishes to fax a document via a fax-capable 802.11 device, such as a mobile telephone, the user simply inserts the 802.11 accessory module 132 into accessory module bay 142. In this example, electronic device 110 automatically recognizes the insertion of a new accessory module 132 and automatically reconfigures the internal settings of electronic device 110 to communicate using an 802.11 communication protocol as discussed in greater detail below with respect to
In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 110 is encased in an ergonomically designed housing 144 having a shape that resembles a rectangular prism with a curved top. The preferred embodiment of the present invention has a varying height of approximately 1.9 inches to 5 inches, a width of approximately 11.6 inches, and a depth of approximately 5 inches. These dimensions are chosen to minimize the weight and size of the present invention such that maximum portability is achieved. However, alternate embodiments are envisioned having entirely different dimensions without departing from the scope of the present invention. More specifically, many of the features described or claimed herein may be applied to larger or smaller, heavier or lighter, non-portable or portable electronic devices having similar functionality without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the exact dimensions of the electronic device may vary depending on factors such as desired paper size, the size of user interface 112, etc.
The geometry of housing 144 is selected to provide stability during portable, non-standard office use. That is, the ratios of width to depth and width to height are selected to lower the center of gravity of electronic device 110. As a result, housing 144 exhibits a low profile for stable operation in work areas having limited space and/or irregular surfaces (e.g., the passenger seat of a vehicle, a person's lap, etc.). The design of electronic device 110 eliminates the need for additional structural support members such as legs or extensions, which may be cumbersome to set up and which may fail during the intended use of electronic device 110.
In addition to stability, housing 144 is designed to mechanically support internally housed electronic and electromechanical components such as keypad 114, scan head 432 (
Furthermore, as illustrated in
Still referring to
The lower and upper paper ports 136 and 138, respectively, are vertically staggered to receive staggered paper feeds, thereby permitting insertion of the original media first in lower paper port 136 followed by the insertion of blank recording media in upper paper port 138. The unique incorporation of two independent, vertically staggered, lower and upper paper ports 136 and 138, respectively, and two independent parallel lower and upper paper paths 622 and 624 (
Furthermore, locating lower and upper paper ports 136 and 138, respectively, at different vertical levels on the same side of electronic device 110 as user interface 112 also provides easy user access and further minimizes paper jams. This location facilitates insertion of two distinct pieces of media for substantially simultaneous scanning and printing (e.g., to perform the copy function) without movement or disruption of electronic device 110 and without obstructing the user's access to user interface 112. This is particularly important in small, portable devices, because jostling the machine during media insertion or movement of the inserted media to access user interface 112 can easily create problems with media alignment, thereby increasing the likelihood of paper jams.
In addition to minimizing paper jams, the same side paper feeds, parallel paths, and simultaneous scanning and printing minimize the required workspace around the unit. For example, if a user wishes to copy a document by placing electronic device 110 on the passenger seat of a vehicle, electronic device 110 may be placed on the seat at a location close to the passenger door. This location allows both the original and recording media to be inserted into electronic device 110, as well as user access to user interface 112. As the simultaneous scanning and printing of the media occurs, the media will progress through electronic device 110 in synchronization as discussed in greater detail below with respect to
Referring now to
Also depicted in
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, lower and upper paper port detection sensors 210 and 212, respectively, are infrared optical sensors. Generally, these sensors are strategically positioned to sense the presence of media fed into lower and upper paper ports 136 and 138, respectively, and to provide feedback regarding the alignment and positioning of the media. More specifically, the infrared emitters associated with lower and upper paper port detection sensors 210 and 212 are continually energized, therefore, the associated infrared beams are always energized. However, it should be noted that alternate embodiments are envisioned in which the infrared emitters associated with lower and upper paper port detection sensors 210 and 212 are energized only when required. The preferred embodiment of the present invention chooses the former option, as it is required for the auto-copy function as discussed below with respect to
When media is properly inserted into lower or upper paper port 136 or 138, respectively, and properly aligned, the media will block transmission of the infrared beam of one or both of lower or upper paper port detection sensors 210 or 212, respectively. When this signal is blocked, the infrared receiver associated with lower or upper paper port detection sensors 210 or 212, respectively, will not sense the infrared beam signal and will output a logical “0” signal. Conversely, when the infrared receiver associated with lower or upper paper port detection sensors 210 or 212, respectively, senses the infrared beam signal, it will output a logical “1” signal.
To determine proper alignment and position of media, the logical outputs of all detection sensors associated with a particular paper port are input to a logical OR function. Therefore, if the infrared receiver associated with any one of lower or upper paper port detection sensors 210 or 212, respectively, senses an infrared beam, the media has not been properly inserted (i.e., not all beams are disrupted). Consequently, the respective lower or upper paper port detection sensor 210 or 212, respectively, outputs a logical “1” signal and the output of the OR function is a “1”. Similarly, if the media is properly inserted in the paper port, it will obstruct the infrared beam of all lower or upper paper port detection sensors 210 or 212, respectively, associated with the paper port. Thus, all of the paper port's infrared receivers will not sense their respective infrared beams, and they will all output a logical “0” signal. Only in this condition will the output of the OR function equal “0”. This detection sensor circuitry 436 (
Referring next to
Locating the input and discharge ports for each of lower and upper paper paths 622 and 624 (
Also depicted in
Referring next to
Consequently, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, system controller 412 is a single, 256-pin integrated circuit (“IC”) chip that includes, inter alia, a central processing unit (“CPU”), an eleven (11) channel direct memory access (“DMA”) controller, a synchronous dynamic random access memory (“SDRAM”) controller, one hundred twenty eight (128) kilobytes random access memory (“RAM”), a Joint Test Action Group (“JTAG®”) in-circuit emulator (“ICE”) port, a bootstrap loader, general purpose input/output (“I/O”) ports, a pulse width modulator, timers, a real time clock (“RTC”), and a watchdog timer. Furthermore, system controller 412 facilitates connection to standard, commonly used peripherals via its on-chip memory stick host controller, two (2) Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitters (“UARTS”), two (2) service provider interface (“SPI”) ports, small-scale integration (“SSI/I2S”) port, I2C port, USB port, Smartcard interface, Bluetooth® accelerator, analog signal processor, LCD controller, video port, and multimedia accelerator.
Non-volatile data storage is accomplished within control subsystem 410 via flash memory 416. The types of data stored in flash memory 416 include application-specific programs (e.g., the auto-sensing algorithm, the print algorithm, the copy algorithm, etc.) and user data (e.g., received and sent fax data, scanned data, electronic mail, saved web pages, data to be printed, etc.), but do not include local “scratchpad” data storage (e.g., print power management algorithm calculation results such as quantity of pixels to be burned simultaneously, application program “stack” and interrupt pending data, real time calculations, fax number being dialed, etc.). The latter is stored within the on-chip memory of system controller 412. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, flash memory 416 is an expandable, modular Not And (“NAND”) flash memory, having a minimum of eight (8) megabytes of storage and implemented with a Spansion® AM30LV0064D 32 Megabit memory IC.
Flash memory 416 communicates with system controller 412 and the other elements of control subsystem 410, as described in greater detail below, via communication bus 414. Various types of information are sent via communication bus 414 including data, addresses, control information, etc. Communication bus 414 may be a single communication bus or multiple communication buses without departing from the scope of this invention. Also, although the preferred embodiment of the present invention incorporates flash memory 416, the present invention is not so limited. Other forms of memory may be substituted for flash memory 416 such as Smartcard, SmartMedia®, Dual In-Line Memory Modules (“DIMMs”), Single In-Line Memory Modules (“SIMMs”), etc. without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Data is transferred to flash memory 416 via communication bus 414, whereupon it is loaded into flash memory 416 via an integral bootstrap loader. The latter is discussed in detail below with respect to
Control subsystem 410 also includes RAM 418. RAM 418 consumes less power than flash memory 416, but cannot be used for storage of critical data since RAM 418 loses its data upon a loss of power. Therefore, RAM 418 is included to reduce the overall power consumption of electronic device 110, but must be used in conjunction with flash memory 416 to preserve the integrity of critical data.
In addition to RAM 418, control subsystem 410 includes read only memory (“ROM”) 420. Data that will never require modification or upgrade (e.g., serial number data) will be stored in ROM 420. In addition, ROM 420 will store special boot loader firmware to address bootloads other than those already handled by system controller 412.
Also included within control subsystem 410 is programmable logic device (“PLD”) 424. Generally, this device supports system controller 412 by performing some of the functions that could be alternatively performed by system controller 412 such as low level address decoding, interrupt multiplexing, detecting and identifying accessory module 132, etc. In addition, inclusion of PLD 424 adds the flexibility of performing software upgrades without requiring a re-configuration of the printed circuit board containing system controller 412. This method of upgrading software allows production changes to occur after initial sales of the electronic device 110 have occurred without recall of sold devices.
More specifically, PLD 424 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention is a Xilinx® CoolRunner® XPLA3. PLD 424 executes the control code for operation of keypad 114, display 116, motor 440, lower and upper paper port detection sensors 210 and 212, respectively, lower and upper paper port roller gears 614 and 616, respectively, and accessory module bus 442. For example, PLD 424 is responsible for scanning keypad 114, communicating data between electronic device 110 and accessory modules 132 via accessory module bus 442, interfacing to display 116, and detecting paper in each of lower and upper paper ports 136 and 138, respectively.
Scanning of keypad 114 includes de-bounce controls. That is, circuitry within PLD 424 reduces the chatter associated with the switching of contacts in response to a user pushing a button on keypad 114. This de-bounce circuitry reduces the chatter and provides a single, clean change of state to system controller 412 via communication bus 414.
PLD 424 is also responsible for automatically detecting and identifying an accessory module 132 present in accessory module bay 142 (
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, five pins are connected to a 3.3 volt source through five (5) individual pullup resistors (i.e., each pin has a dedicated pullup resistor) having a value of 100 KiloOhms or greater. The relatively large size of the pullup resistors minimizes battery drain, as the higher resistance causes a lower current draw from the battery. The side of each resistor connected to the 3.3 volt source shall be referred to as the “high side”, and the opposite end of each resistor shall be referred to as the “low side”. The low side of each resistor is connected to one of the five (5) pins of the multi-pin connector as well as one of five (5) dedicated pins of PLD 424.
Each type of accessory module 132 (e.g., Bluetooth®, GPRS, 802.11, Ethernet, UWB, etc.) shall include a connector having a unique pin that creates a ground connection to one, and only one, of the five (5) pullup resistors. For example, a Bluetooth® accessory module 132 shall ground the first of the five (5) pullup resistors. Similarly, an 802.11 accessory module 132 shall ground the second of the five (5) pullup resistors. Likewise, a UWB accessory module 132 shall ground the third of the five (5) pullup resistors. Additional spare pins are provided in the present invention to accommodate new technologies that are either not yet invented or not yet widely used.
Each low side of the pullup resistors is connected to PLD 424 to allow monitoring of the low sides to determine whether an accessory module 132 is present and, if yes, its communication protocol. After accessory module 132 is automatically detected and its communication protocol is determined, PLD 424 communicates this information to system controller 412. In response, system controller 412 selects the corresponding application firmware, which resides in flash memory 416, and copies it to RAM 418. This allows the driver code that corresponds to the communication protocol of the inserted accessory module 132 to be executed such that electronic device 110 may interface with accessory module 132.
Still referring to
Furthermore, scan head 432 and print head 434 (see
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, scan head 432 is a commercially available, color, optical scan head such as those manufactured by Rohm® or Dyna Image®. The data acquired by scan head 432 is converted from analog to digital data with 8 bits of resolution via the low cost National Semiconductor® ADC08061 IC, which includes an integral input multiplexer and sample and hold. An external adjustable band gap reference, such as the Texas Instruments® TLE2431, is also included to provide a stable, accurate reference voltage for full-scale logic values. Zero offset calibration is accomplished via software. Scan head 432 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention allows electronic device 110 to scan color media and transmit the color digital data to other color-equipped devices such as color fax machines, PCs, PDAs, etc.
As an alternative to scan head 432 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a pure digital scan head may be implemented. Although this type of scan head is more expensive and would result in a more costly electronic device 110, it simplifies the design as the pure digital scan head includes an integral analog-to-digital (“A/D”) converter and associated electronics.
In yet another alternative embodiment, gray-scale optical scanning is incorporated, even though only black and white local printing is supported by print head 434 in the low cost version of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. However, scan heads other than those discussed above, may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the present invention. Or, in yet another alternate embodiment, scan head 432, and consequently the scanning function, may be removed from electronic device 110 to create a lower cost version of the present invention.
Preferably, print head 434 is a commercially available, thermal print head. However, higher cost versions of electronic device 110 are envisioned that are equipped with color print heads.
Lower paper port detection sensors 210 and upper paper port detection sensors 212 are also coupled to system controller 412 and PLD 424 via communication bus 414 via detection sensor circuitry 436. Generally, detection sensor circuitry 436 provides validation information regarding the position and alignment of media fed into lower and upper paper ports 136 and 138, respectively, to control subsystem 410. More specifically, control subsystem 410 receives the outputs of the OR functions (i.e., one OR function per paper port), as discussed above with respect to
This position and alignment data is processed by control subsystem 410, whereupon it is used to synchronize the scanning and printing processes during copying via control of mechanical trigger 626. Mechanical trigger 626 is described below in greater detail with respect to
Still referring to
Alternatively, more complex and more expensive alternate embodiments may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, a higher cost model is envisioned wherein electromechanical engine drive circuitry 438 is an Allegro® SLA7042 power multi-chip module capable of controlling motor 440 using micro-stepping techniques. These techniques provide improved resolution without limiting step rates, as well as smoother low-speed motor operation.
Turning now to
Power management subsystem 510 also includes battery charger subsystem 518. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, battery charger subsystem 518 is a Texas Instruments® BQ2000T Fast Charge management IC, however, alternate battery charger systems may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the present invention. A universal, UL-approved, AC input DC power supply charges batteries 512 and supplies power to electronic device 110 whenever AC power is available. Alternatively, DC power may be supplied to electronic device 110 via a cigarette lighter adapter or airplane adapter.
Special precautions are taken to synchronize the oscillator frequencies to a single value to minimize the need for additional filtering. These special precautions include the use of a common or synchronized clock frequency, or a divided multiple thereof, to minimize the quantity of fast rising edge clock signals that occur in the circuitry of electronic device 110. Also, a minimum quantity of separate crystals or clock oscillators will be incorporated, and the clock frequency shall be multiplexed in all possible instances. These precautions enable electronic device 110 to comply with the electromagnetic (“EMI”) and radio frequency interference (“RFI”) regulations promulgated by the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) (i.e., Part 15 unintentional radiation limits) and the European Community.
Referring now to
Under the direction of control subsystem 410 (
Mechanical trigger 626, controlled by actuator 444, maintains upper paper port roller gear 616 in one of two positions with respect to lower paper port roller gear 614 without the need for continuous power. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, mechanical trigger 626 is a spring leaf mounted under compression between support 628 (
When electronic device 110 is first powered on, system controller 412 will drive actuator 444 towards the right side of electronic device 110 such that upper paper port roller gear 616 is no longer engaged with lower paper port roller gear 614. More specifically, a temporary power pulse of the appropriate polarity (i.e., the disengage polarity) is applied to actuator 444 via the proper “H” set of power drivers (i.e., the disengage set of power drivers). If upper paper port roller gear 616 is in the disengaged position with respect to lower paper port roller gear 614 upon power up, its position will not be altered. If not, actuator 444 will pull mechanical trigger 626 towards the right side of electronic device 110 to a distance at which mechanical trigger 626 exceeds its maximum compression point causing the spring force of mechanical trigger 626 to move upper paper port roller gear 616 away from lower paper port roller gear 614 until it is completely disengaged from lower paper port roller gear 614.
Similarly, when control subsystem 410 desires to engage upper paper port roller gear 616 with lower paper port roller gear 614 (e.g., during the copy process), system controller 412 applies a temporary power pulse having the opposite polarity of the disengaged power pulse discussed above by inverting and activating the H-bridge power drivers. The temporary power pulse moves actuator 444 toward the left side of electronic device 110 to a distance at which mechanical trigger 626 exceeds its maximum compression point causing the spring force of mechanical trigger 626 to move upper paper port roller gear 616 toward lower paper port roller gear 614 until it is fully engaged with lower paper port roller gear 614.
Upper paper port roller gear 616 is disengaged from lower paper port roller gear 614 during the scanning function. This function, which is intrinsic to the scanning, copying, and faxing operations, is implemented using the same techniques described below for the printing function. However, the scanning operation occurs using its own dedicated, independent elements including lower paper port 136 (
At the onset of a scanning operation, the original media is inserted into lower paper port 136 (
Upper paper port roller gear 616 does not rotate as it is disengaged from lower paper port roller gear 614. Disengaging upper paper port roller gear 616 from lower paper port roller gear 614 conserves power, which is extremely important during battery operation. The original media passes through its dedicated lower paper path 622 in close contact with scan head 432, whereupon the image data is scanned by scan head 432 on a line-by-line basis. As each line is scanned, the original media progressively passes through its dedicated lower paper path 622 (
In contrast, upper paper port roller gear 616 is engaged with lower paper port roller gear 614 during the printing function. To print a document, first, the recording media is inserted into upper paper port 138 (
Thereafter, control subsystem 410 activates motor 440 (
Upper paper port roller gear 616 is also engaged with lower paper port roller gear 614 during the copying function. When a copying function is to be performed by electronic device 110, the original media is first inserted into upper paper port 138 (FIG. 1). Upper paper port detection sensors 212 allow the upper paper port roller 620 (
Electronic device 110 performs a true copying function. That is, electronic device 110 prints the data scanned from the media to be copied virtually simultaneously with scanning. Due to the unique design of electronic device 110 including, but not limited to, the incorporation of two independent rollers and two independent paper paths, it is not necessary to wait until the document to be copied is scanned to memory to free up a roller and/or paper path to perform printing of the scanned data.
An alternate embodiment of the present invention is envisioned that includes a second electromechanical engine including a second motor, a second main motor drive gear, and a second pinion gear. In this alternate embodiment, motor 440 drives main drive gear 610, which in turn drives pinion gear 612, which in turn drives only lower paper port roller gear 614. Actuator 444 and mechanical trigger 626 are eliminated in this embodiment, and upper paper port roller gear 616 no longer engages with lower paper port roller gear 614. Rather, when upper paper port roller gear 616 must be rotated, the second motor drives the second main drive gear, which drives the second pinion gear, which is continually engaged with upper paper port roller gear 616.
The inclusion of a dedicated motor, main motor drive gear, and pinion gear for each of lower and upper paper port rollers 618 and 620, respectively, provides truly independent rotation of each roller and, therefore, provides greater flexibility when using the device. For example, since the scanning and printing functions are completely independent, a user may print a first document while simultaneously faxing a second document, thereby decreasing the time required to process the two tasks and increasing user productivity.
Referring now to
Referring next to
Relying on the mechanical spring action of mechanical trigger 626 to drive upper paper port roller gear 616 to the engaged or disengaged position eliminates the need for a continuous electrical signal to upper paper port roller gear 616, thereby minimizing the power consumed by electronic device 110. If the engagement of upper paper port roller gear 616 must be sustained by continuously energizing a solenoid, as is commonly performed in the art, its continuous power consumption drastically reduces the length of time that electronic device 110 may operate on battery power without recharging. This reduction in use would severely limit the portability of electronic device 110, as the device will require more frequent recharging. Therefore, advantageously, the design of electronic device 110 is designed to supply a temporary low voltage, low current power pulse to temporarily modify the position of mechanical trigger 626 until its mechanical spring action changes the position of upper paper port roller gear 616 with respect to lower paper port roller gear 614.
Referring next to
Turning next to
Referring to
Referring next to
More specifically, the dispatcher algorithm begins in its ready state (step 802) and is responsible for detecting sensor changes (step 804), upon which the sensor values are updated (step 806). Also, the dispatcher algorithm monitors for user input (step 808) (e.g., data input via keypad 114), host commands (step 812), and incoming calls (step 816) and, upon detecting same, responds with a dispatch user command (step 810), a dispatch host command (step 814), or a dispatch to receive fax command (step 818), respectively.
Additionally, the dispatcher algorithm minimizes power consumption by performing power management updates (step 820), which disable various components of electronic device 110 when these components are not required. The disabled components include minimal power consumers such as display 116, as well as more significant power consumers such as Bluetooth® and 802.11 accessory modules 132. Alternatively, these updates may also reduce power consumption by placing system controller 412 in a “sleep” mode. In this mode, if a telephone call is received or if a user presses a numeric key 118 or function key 120, system controller 412 instantly “wakes up” and returns to normal operation. Finally, the dispatcher algorithm monitors the system idle time (step 822). Upon exceeding a predetermined idle time period, the dispatcher algorithm automatically removes power from (step 824) electronic device 110.
Turning next to
Electronic device 110 supports standard print functions such as page control functions (e.g., resolution, page eject, etc.), page formatting functions (e.g., margins, paper size, etc.), cursor functions (e.g., movement of cursor position, paper advance, etc.), graphics download functions (e.g., raster line printing, etc.), and conversion of ASCII text to raster output. Also, to support printing, electronic device 110 includes printer driver software, which offers print compatibility with commonly used operating systems such as Windows®, Macintosh®, etc.
Still referring to
Upon receiving an end print command (step 924), the printed page is ejected (step 926) and the print algorithm returns control to the dispatcher algorithm, as discussed above with respect to
Referring now to
Thereafter, the print power management algorithm reads the print head temperature (step 1020) and adjusts the burn time, if necessary, based upon the instantaneous print head temperature (step 1022). Next, the print power management algorithm determines whether any additional quadrants require printing (step 1024). If yes, the print power management algorithm returns to step 1018. If no, the print power management algorithm determines whether the last line has been printed (step 1026). Similarly, at step 1016, if the print power management algorithm determines that the total quantity of pixel/elements is zero, step 1026 is also performed.
If the last line has not been printed, the print power management algorithm returns to step 1010, and the entire print power management algorithm begins again. If the last line has been printed, the print power management algorithm completes (step 1028) and returns to the dispatcher algorithm depicted in
Turning now to
When performing the scanning function, electronic device 110 is capable of operating in a “slave” mode, whereupon it receives its scan instructions from the external host (e.g., a PC, PDA, etc.). For example, if electronic device 110 is interfaced to a host PC via USB port 130, it is capable of receiving its scanning instructions from the host PC via the USB connection. Under this operating mode, the host PC initiates a scan document command.
To achieve this compatibility, electronic device 110 includes scanner driver software that is compatible with most popular operating systems (e.g., Windows®, Macintosh®, etc.). Similarly, the host PC is equipped, or loaded, with a conventional scanning software package that allows a PC user to initiate the scan command and allows electronic device 110 to “appear” on the host PC as if it were a conventional scanning device. Upon initiation of the scan command, the conventional scanning software instructs the scanner driver software of electronic device 110 via USB port 130 to perform the scan. In turn, the software driver instructs the electronic device 110 to scan the document. For maximum compatibility with third party equipment, the software driver of the preferred embodiment of the present invention supports the well known, commonly used TWAIN interface. This ensures compatibility between a third party device operating with TWAIN-compatible scanning software and electronic device 110.
As depicted in
After initialization of the scan state (step 1110), raster line data is read via scan head 432 (
Referring next to
Still referring to
Referring now to
The auto-sensing algorithm begins when the start fax button is pressed (step 1310) via keypad 114. First, the auto-sensing algorithm determines whether a PSTN line is connected to PSTN port 126 (step 1312). If yes, the auto-sensing algorithm binds the call to the medium (step 1314). Thereafter, the auto-sensing algorithm ends (step 1316) and returns to the transmit fax algorithm depicted in
Alternatively, if the auto-sensing algorithm determines that a PSTN line is not connected to PSTN port 126 (step 1312), it then polls serial port 128 (step 1318). If a serial device is detected as connected to serial port 128, the auto-sensing algorithm determines whether the serial device is fax-capable (step 1320). If the serial device is determined to be fax-capable, the auto-sensing algorithm proceeds to step 1314 as discussed above.
If the serial device is not fax-capable as determined during step 1320, the algorithm then polls IrDA® port 134 (step 1322). If an IrDA® device is sensed, an IrDA® link is established (step 1324) to determine if the IrDA® device is fax-capable (step 1326). If yes, the auto-sensing algorithm proceeds to step 1314 as discussed above.
If the IrDA® device is not fax-capable, as determined during step 1326, the algorithm then polls the accessory module 132, if any, present in accessory module bay 142 (step 1328) to determine if a Bluetooth® device is present. If a Bluetooth® device is sensed, a Bluetooth® link is established (step 1330) to determine if the Bluetooth® device is fax-capable (step 1332). If yes, the auto-sensing algorithm proceeds to step 1314 as discussed above.
If the Bluetooth® device is not fax-capable, as determined during step 1332, the algorithm then polls the accessory module 132, if any, present in accessory module bay 142 (step 1334) to determine if an 802.11 device is present. If an 802.11 device is sensed, an 802.11 link is established (step 1336) to determine if the 802.11 device is fax-capable (step 1338). If yes, the auto-sensing algorithm proceeds to step 1314 as discussed above. If no, the auto-sensing algorithm ends (step 1316) and returns to the transmit fax algorithm depicted in
Turning next to
At step 1402, if the auto-sensing algorithm (see
Irrespective of whether an on-board or external fax-capable device is initialized, next, the fax parameters are initialized (step 1410). If the PSTN is the communication medium of choice, this step includes performing all line status functions such as checking for a dial tone.
Thereafter, the transmit fax algorithm performs the dial sequence to dial the telephone number associated with the destination fax machine (step 1412). This sequence occurs until electronic device 110 is connected to the destination fax machine (step 1414). If the call cannot be connected, an error condition is reported to the user (step 1436) and control is returned to the dispatcher algorithm (
Upon a successful connection to the destination fax machine, the fax parameters are negotiated (step 1420). In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, if the on-board data modem device 426 (
Thereafter, a beginning of page message is transmitted to the destination fax machine (step 1424). Page data is then read by scan head 432 (
Upon completion of the scanning of all data associated with the current page of the fax transmission, the transmit fax algorithm performs a check to determine if there are additional pages to transmit (step 1436). If an additional page is sensed in lower paper port 136 (
If an additional page is not sensed in lower paper port 136 (
Next, referring to
In the latter scenario, the received fax data will automatically be stored to a memory location as long as memory is available. If electronic device 110 exceeds its memory capacity during fax reception, the originating fax machine will receive a memory overflow message as per the fax protocol used for the fax transmission (e.g., the T.30 protocol). When paper is restored to electronic device 110, the stored fax data will be printed.
Also, the stored faxes shall be retained in memory after printing to allow an external device (e.g., laptop, PC, etc.) connected to electronic device 110 via one of its communication ports to access the stored faxes. More specifically, electronic device 110 provides file system descriptors to the external device (e.g., laptop, PC, etc.) to allow the external device to “see” stored faxes, as well as other stored files (e.g., scanned documents) as .tif files. These .tif files may then be manipulated (e.g., saved to the external device's hard drive, printed, etc.) at the user's discretion. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, this “store data” feature may be enabled or disabled by the user via user interface 112.
Stepping of motor 440 is synchronized with printing (step 1512) as necessary to print the received fax page. When an end of page message is received from the transmitting fax machine (step 1514), a query is performed to determine whether this page is the final page of the fax transmission (step 1516). If no, the receive fax algorithm returns to step 1612, and waits for a beginning of page message from the transmitting fax machine. If yes, the telecommunication between electronic device 110 (
Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention is capable of performing all of the functions discussed herein (i.e., faxing, scanning, copying, printing), embodiments of the present invention may also be designed to perform only one of these functions or two or more of these functions without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention may be designed to include one or more of the aforementioned functions plus additional functions (e.g., text messaging) not discussed herein, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Furthermore, alternate embodiments are envisioned wherein one or more software programs may be implemented using alternative methods to those discussed herein (e.g., procedure-based techniques, component-based techniques, object-oriented techniques, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present invention. Specifically, software programs such as assembler, C, XML, C++ objects, Java®, and Microsoft® Foundation Classes (“MFC”) may be implemented.
While the present invention has been described with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, which embodiments have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete disclosure of the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from the spirit and the principles of the invention.
Claims
1. An apparatus for processing media, wherein said apparatus comprises:
- at least two rollers;
- at least one rotation mechanism coupled to at least one of said rollers;
- at least one circuit coupled to said rotation mechanism for control of said rotation mechanism; and
- a housing enclosing said rollers, said rotation mechanism, and said circuit;
- wherein said housing has at least one of the group consisting of a width less than 16 inches, a depth less than 12 inches, a height less than 12 inches, and a weight less than 6 pounds;
- wherein said rotation mechanism rotates at least one of said rollers; and
- wherein said rotation transports said media through said housing.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least one sensor coupled to at least one of said circuits and located internal to said housing;
- wherein said sensor senses at least one of the group consisting of presence and alignment of said media.
3. An apparatus according to claim 1, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least one communication port coupled to at least one of said circuits wherein at least a portion of said communication port is located internal to said housing.
4. An apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said communication port is at least one of the group consisting of a PSTN port, a serial port, an Infrared Data Association® port, a Universal Serial Bus port, a Bluetooth® port, an Ethernet port, and an Ultra Wide Band port.
5. An apparatus according to claim 1, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least five communication ports coupled to at least one of said circuits wherein at least a portion of each of said communication ports is located internal to said housing.
6. An apparatus according to claim 5, wherein each of said communication ports is one of the group consisting of a PSTN port, a serial port, an Infrared Data Association® port, a Universal Serial Bus port, a Bluetooth® port, an Ethernet port, and an Ultra Wide Band port.
7. An apparatus according to claim 1, said apparatus further comprising:
- a bay coupled to at least one of said circuits wherein at least a portion of said bay is located internal to said housing;
- wherein said bay couples a module to at least one of said circuits.
8. An apparatus according to claim 7, wherein said module includes one of the group consisting of a PSTN port, a serial port, an Infrared Data Association® port, a Universal Serial Bus port, a Bluetooth® port, an Ethernet port, and an Ultra Wide Band port.
9. An apparatus according to claim 7, wherein at least one of said circuits performs at least one of the group consisting of automatically sensing said module and automatically determining a communication protocol associated with said module.
10. An apparatus according to claim 7, said apparatus further comprising:
- a programmable device.
11. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein at least one of said circuits performs at least one of the group consisting of automatically sensing said module, automatically determining a communication protocol associated with said module, and automatically programming said programmable device to communicate with said module.
12. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said apparatus performs at least one of the group consisting of scanning media, faxing media, printing media, copying media, transmitting media via telefacsimile, and receiving telefacsimiles.
13. An apparatus according to claim 1, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least one battery located internal to said housing;
- wherein said battery allows said apparatus to operate via battery power.
14. An apparatus according to claim 1, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least two apertures through said housing;
- wherein at least one of said apertures allows at least one of said media to be inserted through said aperture until said at least one of said media couples to at least one of said rollers; and
- wherein each of said apertures is located at a distinct vertical height with respect to a forward facing surface of said apparatus.
15. An apparatus according to claim 14, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least one user interface located on an angled, upward and forward facing surface of said apparatus;
- wherein insertion of at least one of said media into at least one of said apertures does not obstruct said user interface.
16. An apparatus according to claim 14, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least one user interface located on an angled, upward and forward facing surface of said apparatus;
- wherein simultaneous insertion of one of said media into each of said apertures does not obstruct said user interface.
17. An apparatus according to claim 1, said apparatus further comprising:
- a print head for printing data on media transported by a first of said rollers; and
- a scan head for scanning data present on said media transported by a second of said rollers.
18. An apparatus according to claim 17, wherein said apparatus transfers said data scanned by said scan head directly to said print head for printing on said media transported by said first roller.
19. An apparatus according to claim 14, said apparatus further comprising:
- at least two rear apertures through a rear facing surface of said housing;
- wherein at least one of said apertures allows at least one of said media to exit said apparatus through said aperture; and
- wherein each of said rear apertures is located at a distinct vertical height with respect to a rear facing surface of said apparatus.
20. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said apparatus includes two independent paper paths.
Type: Application
Filed: Oct 27, 2008
Publication Date: Apr 30, 2009
Inventors: Mario Moreno (Raleigh, NC), Robert Cichielo (Asbury, NJ), Michael J. Keating (Blairstown, NJ)
Application Number: 12/258,546
International Classification: G06K 15/00 (20060101); H04N 1/04 (20060101);
