System and Method for Displaying and Controlling Content
A system and method for displaying content controlled by a user includes a server generating a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface receiving user input for controlling the server. A projector receives the graphical user interface from the server over a network and projects a projection of the graphical user interface on a surface, the projector adapted to move the projection vertically and horizontally on the surface based on the user input. A controller automatically adjusts the projection to compensate for an angle of display of the projection so the projection is shown on the surface in a predetermined shape. A pointer is operated by the user and provides the user input, the user able to use the pointer to move the projection along the surface with a click when the pointer is at a position on the projection.
This patent application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. §120, of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/476,831, filed on May 21, 2012, which claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/488,168, filed on May 20, 2011, the content of both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present teachings relate generally to computing systems and, more particularly, to thin-client computing systems using a controllable projection display.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONIn recent years, the growth of the Internet has led to “thinner” computer clients, with much of the computer processing now being performed in the “cloud.” What this means is that client computers connect through a network such as the Internet to a server computer that “serves” up content to the client. However, even thin client computers such as notebook computers and tablets are bulky and difficult to maneuver.
In homes and other lodgings, wall decorations are desirable to complete a decorative theme. Artwork is typically selected and hung, and remains in place until a redecorating event occurs, even if the chosen decorations are no longer of interest to the occupants or fail to track changing furniture styles and tastes of the occupants. Further, artwork selection is typically limited by price and availability. Artwork is also usually selected by a small subset of the people who will actually view the artwork
Content creators are varied and numerous. Typically, they create a digital work and provide it to consumers at a purchase price. However, many content creators lack the technical abilities to reach a greater number of potential consumers as well as the ability to rent or lease their content.
Therefore, it would be beneficial to have alternative systems and methods for displaying and controlling centralized content.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe needs set forth herein as well as further and other needs and advantages are addressed by the present embodiments, which illustrate solutions and advantages described below.
A system according to the present teachings includes, but is not limited to, a server generating a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface receiving user input for controlling the server. A projector receives the graphical user interface from the server over a network and projects a projection of the graphical user interface on a surface, the projector adapted to move the projection vertically and horizontally on the surface based on the user input. A controller automatically adjusts the projection to compensate for an angle of display of the projection so the projection is shown on the surface in a predetermined shape. A pointer is operated by a user and provides the user input, the user able to use the pointer to move the projection along the surface with a click when the pointer is at a position on the projection.
A method according to the present teachings includes the steps of, but is not limited to, generating a graphical user interface that receives user input for controlling a server, receiving the graphical user interface from the server over a network and projecting a projection of the graphical user interface with a projector on a surface, the projector adapted to move the projection vertically and horizontally on the surface based on the user input, automatically adjusting the projection to compensate for an angle of display of the projection so the projection is shown on the surface in a predetermined shape, and moving the projection along the surface in response to a click when a pointer is at a position on the projection, the pointer operated by the user to provide the user input.
In another embodiment, a system according to the present teachings includes, but is not limited to, a server generating a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface receiving user input for controlling the server. A projector receives the graphical user interface from the server over a network and projects a projection of the graphical user interface on a wall or ceiling, the projector adapted to move the projection vertically and horizontally on the wall or ceiling based on the user input. A controller automatically adjusts the projection to compensate for an angle of display of the projection so the projection is shown on the wall or ceiling substantially in the shape of a rectangle. An application on a mobile device receives text entry for the graphical user interface. A laser pointer is operated by the user to move the projection along the wall or ceiling with a click of a button on the laser pointer when the laser pointer is at a position on the projection.
The present embodiment can include, but is not limited to including, a projector that can project on any display medium such as, for example, but not limited to, an open wall or a ceiling, where the projector can also include a light detector. The present embodiment can further include a pointer configured with an activation device, for example, a laser pointer that includes a selector (e.g., a “clicker” like a mouse). When the pointer is pointed at the projected image, the light detector may determine where the pointer is pointed and send that information, for example, wirelessly, to a properly configured computer. The projector may be configured with a projection system that can provide outline signifiers, for example, patterns or colors, on the displayed projection image. The projection system can be configured such that the displayed image may be dragged around the display medium when the pointer and selector are cooperatively operated. The projection system can determine the outline of the projected image from the outline signifiers and correct the display to its proper proportions as it is dragged, moved, etc. The projection system can also include an inventory of objects and their locations in the image, and can thus determine where the pointer is relative to the objects. This enables selection of particular objects in the image, similar to selection of objects (e.g., buttons, icons, menus, etc.) on a computer screen using a traditional mouse.
The present embodiment can also include a server executing content selection subsystems, the server collectively managing the content (e.g., image(s), decoration themes, etc.) that is displayed through the system (e.g., projection, etc.). For example, in one embodiment the content selection subsystems access information from the Internet and download home themes to decorate the walls, ceiling, etc. according to a theme. The information is, for example, but not limited to, subscription-based and rotates through pieces of art for enjoyment or education. Information about the art can accompany the art as it is displayed in order to educate the viewer. For example, a user can subscribe to a theme of “American modern art.” In this case, the projection system receives American modern art images, cycles through and displays the images, and provides information about each image. Further, the user can be directed to associated websites or other content and can use the pointer to access those sites to learn more about the images, comment, or purchase related products or services, although not limited thereto. In addition, decoration decisions can be augmented by feedback from a network of friends and associates.
In one embodiment, the projection device is a frame with a special screen material and a small projector that extends out from the frame and projects onto the screen, similar in appearance to museum artwork lighting. Lodging accommodators can decorate rooms according to guests' particular preferences, or a guest could provide personal images such as, for example, family photos, to be displayed. The device can be employed for a number of different uses desiring flexible decorating, including parties, dorm rooms, public spaces (e.g., advertising, etc.) In yet another embodiment, a central controller can control multiple projection systems that display selected images around the rooms of a building.
A method according to the present teachings can include, but is not limited to including, the steps of communicating with a server managing revenue streams associated with electronic information, configuring at least one media player operatively connected to the server (e.g., may be wirelessly connected, etc.) to receive the electronic information in exchange for revenue, receiving decoration preferences, accessing the electronic information based on the preferences, providing the electronic information to the wireless media player, receiving the revenue, and accessorizing a room with the electronic information output from the wireless media player. The method may further comprise the step of receiving recommendations about said step of accessorizing from a social network.
Other embodiments of the system and method are described in detail below and are also part of the present teachings.
For a better understanding of the present embodiments, together with other and further aspects thereof, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and detailed description.
The present teachings are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the present embodiments are shown. The following description is presented for illustrative purposes only and the present teachings should not be limited to these embodiments. Any computer configuration and architecture satisfying the speed and interface requirements herein described may be suitable for implementing the system and method of the present embodiments.
For purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth such as particular architectures, interfaces, techniques, etc. in order to provide a thorough understanding. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known devices, circuits, and methods are omitted so as not to obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein. All references to “a/an/the element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc.” are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of the element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless explicitly stated. The use of “first”, “second” etc. for different features/components of the present disclosure are only intended to distinguish the features/components from other similar features/components and not to impart any order or hierarchy to the features/components.
In one embodiment, although not limited thereto, a projection system such as one described herein can utilize previous unused space (e.g., project on a ceiling, wall, etc.). The projection system can include a projection correction processor correcting for the angle of projection in order to present a rectangular view to the user like a traditional computer screen. The shape of the projected image is not limited to a rectangle and it is to be appreciated that in particular circumstances it may be preferable to project other shapes including, but not limited to, circles, ovals, triangles, or other shapes.
The projection system can be used to “surf” the Internet while the user lounges on the couch. The comfort of the user is not hampered by traditional technology requiring bulky hardware manipulated by the user's hands. Instead, the projector (which can be mounted on a high stand, etc.) can project on any open wall or the ceiling, although not limited thereto. A pointer, such as, for example, but not limited to, a laser pointer, can control the projection. This configuration can provide very light hardware control by the user and ease of maneuverability with the use of cordless devices (e.g., keyboard, pointer, mouse, etc.), although not limited thereto.
The projector can include, but is not limited to including, sensors, for example, but not limited to, light sensors that can sense the pointer device in the projected image. By pressing the button on the laser pointer, a signal, for example, but not limited to, a radio wave, can be sent to the projection system, which can register as a “click” of a mouse, for example, although not limited thereto. In this way, the user can position the laser pointer in the top portion of the projected screen, then drag the screen anywhere in the room. For example, the user may click and drag the projected screen from the ceiling to the wall, although not limited thereto.
A portion in the screen can register that the screen is to be “dragged,” for example, but not limited to, a small area in the corner of the projection. When the projection system detects the pointer in this area of the screen and a “click” is registered, the projector can move the location of the screen to wherever the user moves the pointer. Another area in the screen can be used to rotate the screen. If the screen is to be controlled while projected onto a ceiling, the screen can be oriented depending upon the orientation of the user. In another embodiment, the screen can automatically correct to the horizon of gravity when moved to a vertical projection, such as one a wall. For example, the system can utilize an accelerometer or similar technology, although not limited thereto. The “pointer” can also include a device such as, for example, but not limited to, an accelerometer that can recognize movements by a user in order to control content.
In one embodiment, the projector can compensate for the angle of the projection, so as to assure that a rectangular image (versus trapezoid) is shown, regardless of the angle between the projector and the projection surface. The angle compensation can automatically correct the projection angle according to well-known algorithms and assure a proper projection.
The projector can include sensors to sense particular light patterns at in the projected screen, for example, but not limited to, in the corners, to determine the outline of the projection. Sensors can be used by the projector to calculate distances (e.g., laser measure, etc.) between the projector and each of the light patterns. Using these measurements, which can include the measurement(s) of the projector to the ceiling/walls(s), the projector can determine if the projection is a uniform rectangle (or other desirable shape) and can compensate accordingly, if desired.
The projector can also include a light detector to determine a controller spot in relation to the projection. For example, a laser pointer can be aimed at the projection, a button press or other type of selection can be made, and the laser pointer can send a signal to the projection device emulating, for example, a mouse click. In one embodiment, the user can “surf” the Internet by simply following links in this way, without the need for a keyboard or other input device. The projection system can optionally store a user profile that can provide links or other content, which the user can manage. In another embodiment, the projection system can provide alternative data input data capability, for example, but not limited to, with the pointer. For example, the projection system could display a legend for selecting common words or letters, or could recognize pointer movements (e.g., character recognition, etc.).
Marked areas of the projection, for example, but not limited to, the corners, may allow the projection device to determine where the pointer is relative to any objects in the projection. Therefore, for example, the projection device can determine if a user is clicking a particular place (e.g., button, etc.) in the projection content when the click signal is detected. For example, the user may surf Internet web pages in this fashion. The projection device can determine where laser points are located and how far they are from the device. In this way, the projection device can correct the projection and determine where a user clicks or wants to drag or otherwise manipulate the projection (e.g., rotate, resize, etc.).
The full functionality of devices such as these described may be provided to utilize previously unused ceiling space (or wall space, etc.), although not limited thereto. For example, at one time a user may utilize a pointer while lying on his/her back on the sofa as the screen is projected onto the ceiling. At another time, the user may drag the screen to other walls and utilize a wireless keyboard to enter information just like any other computer, although not limited thereto. Because the projector is able to compensate for the angle of projection, it can be projected anywhere, in any size (e.g. user may enlarge, make smaller, etc.), and in any orientation.
The projection system of the present embodiment can provide a content delivery system. For example, the user may enjoy the benefits of a decoration system for home, business, etc. The projection system can include, but is not limited to including, a central controller and multiple projection pods (on stands, mounted on ceiling, etc.) that can control projections onto one or more surfaces, for example, walls, ceilings, furniture, cabinets, etc. The projection system can display home decorations that can be downloaded and/or purchased by subscription to instantaneously decorate a house/apartment/hotel room/etc. In another embodiment, the content can include advertising, and advertisers can use the system of the present embodiment to bid on advertising time, upload their advertisements, and have them displayed through the projection system, which may be located in a public space.
The projection system can connect to a website or some other centralized computer where it can download decorating themes and automatically decorate the walls and ceiling of a structure according to a theme. In one embodiment, using the measuring capabilities of the projection system, the system can automatically scan a room and recommend decorations based upon the room's size and layout. The projection system of the present embodiment can provide a service for displaying artwork in the home, hotels, etc. For example, paintings, photographs, digital art could all be utilized and paid for, such that part of the charged fee is shared with the copyright owner/content creator. The content can be subscription-based and rotate through famous pieces of art, for example, although not limited thereto. Hotels can use the projection system of the present embodiment to “decorate” rooms to each guests' particular preferences based upon a known profile of the guest user. In another embodiment, a guest could upload preferred content (e.g., family photos, etc.) which may automatically be displayed in the hotel room upon arrival. The projection system can access a user profile that can include preferences. The projection system can enable content selection and download.
In another embodiment, the projection system can enable an educational mode in which the projection system locates content according to a theme and displays the content along with information about the content. The projection system can enable further interactive research about the content interactive, for example, but not limited to, web surfing through the projection system to learn more about the content.
In one embodiment, the projection device can be shaped like a frame with a special screen material and a small projector that extends out from the frame and projects onto the screen. In this way, the projector may look just like lights do on traditional frames that are used in museums today. In another embodiment, the projection device can include a flat panel monitor or similar device, although not limited thereto. For example, content can be provided to television screens or computer screens in applications or as screensavers or backgrounds, although not limited thereto. Instead of projecting, a network connectable controller including the technology of the present embodiment can be associated with one or more display devices (e.g., televisions, monitors, etc.) and can deliver content to the devices wirelessly (e.g., radio transmission, BLUETOOTH®, wifi, etc.) or through a wired connection.
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The present embodiment is directed to systems and methods that can be executed in hardware, firmware, and/or software for accomplishing the methods discussed herein, and, possibly, computer readable media storing software for accomplishing these methods and system, although not limited thereto. The various modules described herein can be provided in conjunction with a single CPU, or on an arbitrary number of different CPUs. Other alternative computer platforms can be used. The operating system can be, for example, but is not limited to, WINDOWS® or LINUX®. Communications links can be wired or wireless, for example, using cellular communication systems, military communications systems, and satellite communications systems. Any data and results can be stored for future retrieval and processing, printed, displayed, transferred to another computer, and/or transferred elsewhere.
In compliance with the statute, the present embodiment has been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the present embodiment is not limited to the specific features shown and described, since the systems herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the present embodiment into effect.
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It is also appreciated that the system according to the present teachings may include a software interface for users to select content and pay for said content. Such interface may include a web page, an application for a mobile device such as an iPhone app or for some other smart device, or any other type interface as would be appreciated by one skilled in the art. Through this interface users may not only select content 11 (
Any system of the present teachings can provide access to content in public spaces. For example, any of systems 200 (
In one embodiment, the “thin” client system of the present teachings can include use of a mobile application running a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet or some other device. The projection can project the real-time display of some virtual desktop that can be controlled by the mobile application. In this way, the mobile device can communicate with a server which can provide content to the projection device. The user, for example, can control the manipulation of content solely through the application on the mobile device, although not limited thereto, such that the processing requirements of the client (e.g., the projection device) can be minimized. Instead, the user can use a mobile device, the application, and a light projection system in order to be provided with a fully-functioning computing device. Control through the mobile device can include movements/gestures with the mobile device (e.g., through use of an accelerometer in the device), interacting with a touch screen on the mobile device, or any other way of interacting with content, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art.
The system can also include building materials embedded with lighting devices. For example, molding may have light strips in one embodiment and the light can be controlled by the system of the present teachings. Any of systems 200 (
While the present teachings have been described above in terms of specific embodiments, it is to be understood that they are not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and other embodiments will come to mind to those skilled in the art to which this pertains, and which are intended to be and are covered by both this disclosure and the appended claims. It is intended that the scope of the present teachings should be determined by proper interpretation and construction of the appended claims and their legal equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the disclosure in this specification and the attached drawings.
Claims
1. A system for displaying content controlled by a user, comprising;
- a server generating a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface receiving user input for controlling the server;
- a projector receiving the graphical user interface from the server over a network and projecting a projection of the graphical user interface on a surface, the projector adapted to move the projection vertically and horizontally on the surface based on the user input;
- a controller automatically adjusting the projection to compensate for an angle of display of the projection so the projection is shown on the surface in a predetermined shape;
- a pointer operated by the user and providing the user input, the user able to use the pointer to move the projection along the surface with a click when the pointer is at a position on the projection.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the pointer comprises a laser pointer having a button for indicating the click.
3. The system of claim 2, further comprising one or more areas on projection, wherein movement of the projection is controlled by positioning the pointer on the one or more areas.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the movement includes rotating or resizing the projection.
5. The system of claim 2, further comprising a sensor sensing the position of the pointer on projection.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a web browser navigating webpages on the Internet.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a computer desktop.
8. The system of claim 1, further comprising an application on a mobile device sending commands to the server to control the graphical user interface.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the application receives text entry for the graphical user interface.
10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a user profile stored on the server, the user profile accessible by a mobile device operated by the user and managing content for display through the user interface, the content including links to webpages.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller and projector comprise the same physical device.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein the server comprises a plurality of computers.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein the projector wirelessly receives the graphical user interface.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein the predetermined shape is substantially in the shape of a rectangle.
15. The system of claim 1, wherein the surface is a wall or ceiling.
16. A method for displaying content controlled by a user, comprising the steps of;
- generating a graphical user interface that receives user input for controlling a server;
- receiving the graphical user interface from the server over a network and projecting a projection of the graphical user interface with a projector on a surface, the projector adapted to move the projection vertically and horizontally on the surface based on the user input;
- automatically adjusting the projection to compensate for an angle of display of the projection so the projection is shown on the surface in a predetermined shape;
- moving the projection along the surface in response to a click when a pointer is at a position on the projection, the pointer operated by the user to provide the user input.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the pointer comprises a laser pointer having a button for indicating the click.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising one or more areas on the projection, wherein rotating or resizing of the projection is controlled by positioning the pointer on the one or more areas.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising the step of providing an application on a mobile device, wherein the user input comprises text entry received by the application and sent to the server.
20. A system for displaying content controlled by a user, comprising;
- a server generating a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface receiving user input for controlling the server;
- a projector receiving the graphical user interface from the server over a network and projecting a projection of the graphical user interface on a wall or ceiling, the projector adapted to move the projection vertically and horizontally on the wall or ceiling based on the user input;
- a controller automatically adjusting the projection to compensate for an angle of display of the projection so the projection is shown on the wall or ceiling substantially in the shape of a rectangle;
- an application on a mobile device receiving text entry for the graphical user interface;
- a laser pointer operated by the user to move the projection along the wall or ceiling with a click of a button on the laser pointer when the laser pointer is at a position on the projection.
Type: Application
Filed: Oct 23, 2015
Publication Date: Feb 11, 2016
Inventors: Stephen Ball (Stamford, CT), Courtney Ball (Stamford, CT)
Application Number: 14/921,303