WO2005041517A1

WO2005041517A1 - Device for the integrated control and use of entertainment and information devices

Info

Publication number: WO2005041517A1
Application number: PCT/EP2004/011933
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ernst Völlm; Urs Kraft
Original assignee: Voellm Ernst; Urs Kraft
Priority date: 2003-10-22
Filing date: 2004-10-21
Publication date: 2005-05-06
Also published as: DE10349165A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for the integrated control of entertainment and information devices with at least one portable detached unit, in particular, a wearable ultralight headphone which remotely receives and acoustically presents at least one physical parameter from information devices, such as pulse monitor belts, satellite navigation devices for orientation or distance measurement, bicycle computers (speed, pedal frequency etc.) and/or altitude sensors, preferably by means of an interference-free low-frequency radio connection, without distracting the user with multiple optical display devices.

Description

Device for the integrated control and use of entertainment and information facilities

description

The present invention relates to a device for the integrated control and use of entertainment and information devices with at least one portable subunit. A wide variety of devices are used for information, entertainment and communication in professional and private sports and communication as well as in the leisure area. These include heart rate monitors, GPS devices for orientation or distance measurement, bike computers (speed, cadence, etc.), altimeters, MP3 players, radios, cell phones, etc.

The invention is explained below using an exemplary embodiment for a jogger. However, this is in no way to be interpreted restrictively with regard to the claimed teaching, since the invention can also be used in many other ways, e.g. can be used as a portable navigation device with voice output when hiking or cross-country skiing. Joggers in particular are often equipped with more than one device (MP3 player, heart rate monitor, possibly GPS module). Since each device uses its own operating and display unit, reading and operating are not user-friendly, which can impair the athlete's attention and thus lead to an increased safety risk.

The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a device which enables integrated control and use of various, in particular portable, entertainment and information devices in a simple manner. The object is achieved by a device according to claim 1 or 2. Preferred embodiments and developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

The device according to the invention has the advantage that the user of the device is presented with information acoustically, preferably in a prepared manner, which means that his Attention is not affected by reading optical displays. The user can concentrate more on his actual activity and is therefore not exposed to an increased security risk. In addition, the user is informed regardless of lighting and time of day. The acoustic output is preferably also suitable for older, visually impaired or blind users. Furthermore, for the device according to the invention, applications in the medical field, such as, for. B. in combination with hearing aids, long-term ECG devices and the like.

The device according to the invention has at least one portable subunit, which has at least one acoustic output device, at least one first transmitting and receiving device, at least one energy supply device, and at least one control device, each in signal connection with the acoustic output device, and the first transmitting and receiving device stands.

Within the scope of the present invention, an acoustic output device is essentially understood to be an electro-acoustic transducer device which converts electrical signals into sound waves with a frequency and sound energy audible to the human ear, such as, in particular, but not exclusively, loudspeakers.

In the context of the present invention, a transmitting device is understood to mean a device which transforms electrical or electromagnetic signals into signal forms which can be converted without being bound to a conductive material, i.e. transmitted through free space, such as electromagnetic waves (e.g. radio waves or infrared light) or ultrasound. A receiving device in the sense of the invention carries out the reverse transformation of the signal forms, i.e. signals in the form of electromagnetic waves in particular are converted into electrical signals.

In the context of the invention, the term energy supply device denotes all types of devices which can in particular provide electrical energy for operating the device according to the invention, and particularly with regard to the portable subunit, those which are not tied to stationary energy supply devices such as power networks, i.e. e.g. Batteries, rechargeable batteries, fuel or solar cells.

In the context of the present invention, a control device is understood to be a device which inputs control signals from input devices which are signal-connected to the control device, such as, for example, keystroke signals from a remote control, for example a watch or voice commands from a recording device. direction receives, and these input control signals assigned predetermined output control signals, which it forwards to the controlled signal-connected subunit and thus controls at least one operating state of the subunit. The operating states can be, for example, the volume of the signals output by an acoustic output device, the output variable of the biometric sensors, such as heart rate or step frequency. The control device is preferably designed as a microprocessor.

Within the scope of the invention, at least two devices between which signals can be exchanged are regarded as signal-connected. The signals can be bound to a medium, such as an electrical conductor or semiconductor, or without binding to a conductive material, i.e. transmitted through the free space, such as in particular electromagnetic waves (e.g. radio waves or infrared light) as well as through an at least gas-filled space such as e.g. Sound waves. Both unidirectional and bidirectional signal transmission links are captured by the term signal-connected.

According to the invention, at least one information device arranged separately from the portable subunit is provided, which determines at least one physical variable and wirelessly transmits at least one signal corresponding to the physical variables to the first transmitting and / or receiving device, the control device depending on the received signal, at least one of these outputs assigned signal on the acoustic output device.

In the context of the invention, a separate arrangement of the information device with respect to the portable subunit is understood to mean a certain spatially separate arrangement of these subunits. The information device preferably forms part of the device according to the invention. In further preferred embodiments, it is provided that physical variables and data signals from external information and entertainment devices, for example via standardized wireless and / or wired interfaces such as. B. retrieve Bluetooth or USB or similar interfaces and reproduce them acoustically and / or optically.

The portable subunit is preferably designed as headphones, as a particularly advantageous acoustic output device that is comfortable for the user to wear. In addition, a number of further advantageous configurations are conceivable for the portable subunit depending on the field of application of the device according to the invention, for. B. Designs with integration in helmets such as in ski / mountaineering, bicycle, motorcycle, and paraglider aviator helmets. This enables increased functionality, high wearing comfort, avoids having to carry additional equipment and reduces the risk of losing, forgetting or relocating the portable subunit.

In other advantageous embodiments, the portable subunit is integrated into glasses such as. B. in ski goggles, (sun) glasses, diving goggles and the like. Advantageous configurations with integration of the portable subunit in head covers of all kinds, in particular ski hats, and also in headbands are also conceivable. In further advantageous embodiments, the portable subunit is integrated in a preferably wireless (eg Bluetooth) headset or a hands-free device.

An information device is preferably arranged such that it is suitable for a simple recording of the physical quantity. For example, a pulse sensor as an information device is preferably arranged on parts of the body that let the heart rate appear to the outside, such as. B. the chest through pulsation. In this sense, however, the tachometer of a bicycle is also arranged separately as an information device according to the invention.

The information device is preferably physical and electrical, i.e. without cable connection, separate from the control device and the portable subunit, but arranged near the user, such as next to the pulse belt around the chest, as a pedometer on the ankle, as a heart rate monitor on the wrist, as an ear clip and the like.

In other embodiments, it is preferred to receive physical measurement signals or data signals from information devices that are not physically but otherwise physically and electrically separated, such as. B. on fitness equipment such as cycling trainers, treadmills, rowing machines to determine the number of strokes or issue warnings, also any type of bicycles or on the roadside, in particular for position determination or lap counting and the like.

In further embodiments, it is preferred to integrate the information device and the control device, for example in a wristwatch with a heart rate monitor on the wrist, a bicycle computer on the handlebar, a pedometer or altimeter on hiking sticks. In such configurations, optical display devices for the physical measured variables are preferably integrated at the same time. In the context of the invention, physical variables are understood to mean, in particular, physical measured variables that can be detected by sensors, such as in particular, but not exclusively, Heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rhythm, number of steps, step frequency, cadence, speed, acceleration, falling speed, geographic location coordinates, magnetic field direction and meteorological variables such as wind speed, wind direction, air pressure, or the like.

A further device according to the invention has at least one acoustic output device, at least one energy supply device and at least one control device, the control device being in signal connection with the acoustic output device. Furthermore, at least one signal corresponding to a physical variable, which can be determined by at least one information device arranged separately from the portable subunit, can be transmitted by wire to the portable subunit, the control device depending on the transmitted signal or at least the transmitted signal or a signal assigned to it outputs acoustic output device. The wirelessly received, the wired transmitted or the signal assigned to one of these signals is preferably a voice and / or video signal.

In a preferred embodiment of the further device according to the invention, at least one information device is integrated in the portable subunit. In such configurations, at least one signal corresponding to the physical quantity determined in this integrated information device is transmitted to the portable subunit by wire. In the case of an integrated information device, the corresponding signal is preferably transmitted to the portable subunit in the form of video and / or audio signals, in particular voice signals.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one remote control device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device.

In the context of the present invention, a remote control device is understood to be a device which has input devices for control signals of the user, such as, for example, buttons, push buttons, switches or a keypad, the control signals being transmitted wirelessly via a separate radio and / or ultrasound and / or infrared transmitter. and / or receiving device or also wired to the control device according to the invention. As a remote control device in the sense of the invention, a recording device for voice commands of a voice control device is also conceivable. Various forms are conceivable for the physical design of a remote control device in the sense of the invention, before moves such shapes, which increase the user-friendliness through a particularly ergonomic arrangement of their input devices. In a preferred embodiment, the remote control device has at least two buttons for scrolling within a list menu and a button for selecting a menu item for controlling an acoustic menu guidance.

Also advantageous are those configurations of the remote control device which are integrated in particular into objects and devices which the user carries with them anyway and which are thereby less easily forgotten or lost. In addition to a wristwatch, there are also, but not exclusively, the following: jewelery, such as bracelets or pendants, handbags, textiles, such as ski / snowboard jackets or diving suits, mobile phones, GPS devices, pens, pocket knives, compasses, flashlights, handles on bicycle handlebars , Fitness equipment, rowing machines, walking sticks, walking aids, belt buckles and the like.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one information and / or entertainment device, which is arranged separately from the portable subunit, is provided, which wirelessly transmits at least one data signal to the first transmitting and / or receiving device, the control device depending on the received data signal and at least one associated with it Outputs signal on the acoustic output device.

Data signals received by the entertainment and / or information device are understood within the scope of the invention to be audio and / or video data, voice and / or electronic text messages, measurement signals from sensors such as GPS receivers, pulse belts, altimeters, cadence counters or the like. In addition, data in the sense of the invention are also status values and control codes for operating states of the entertainment and / or information devices.

According to this understanding of data signals, in preferred embodiments the data signal can be transmitted in the form of a video and / or audio signal, in particular a voice signal, via at least one frequency used for radio or television transmission. The transmission power is tuned to local transmission in accordance with the respective state laws and limits this locally to avoid interference with radio and television stations, for example to transmission within the immediate vicinity of a car to a commercially available car radio. The frequencies commonly used in each country come as transmission frequencies both for analog and digitally modulated radio and / or television signals.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one remote control device transmits at least one control signal to the control device which controls at least one functionality of a device of the portable subunit.

Within the scope of the invention, the functionality of a device is understood to be the presence of functions with defined properties, the functions fulfilling defined requirements. Functionality in this sense is e.g. the adjustability of the volume of the signals output via the acoustic output device, which can assume discretely defined or continuously variable levels within a predetermined interval. Another example of functionality is the possibility of jumping forward or backward in a list of stored MP3 music tracks, which selects the music track that is played after a play button is pressed.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one remote control device transmits at least one control signal to at least one information and / or entertainment device which controls at least one functionality of the information and / or entertainment device.

In a preferred development, the at least one remote control device transmits at least one first control signal to the control device which, depending on the first control signal, generates at least one second control signal which is transmitted wirelessly to at least one information and / or entertainment device via the first transmitting and / or receiving device is and controls at least one functionality of the information and / or entertainment device. The remote control device is preferably integrated in a mobile radio telephone.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one data processing device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device. The at least one data processing device transforms data into formats required for certain devices in order to establish a communication link between at least two subunits of the device or a subunit of the device and an external entertainment and / or information device. In a preferred embodiment, at least one memory device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device. In certain preferred embodiments, compressed audio and / or video data are preferably transmitted from an external storage medium to the storage device in order to be available to the user for mobile playback on the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device.

In further preferred embodiments, predetermined sounds, words, sentences or text passages are stored in the storage devices, which are controlled by the control device and triggered by measurement signals from certain sensors, such as e.g. a pulse sensor, are reproduced via the acoustic output device. It is conceivable to pass these text passages through a provided recording device, e.g. a microphone to replace, modify or supplement recorded text passages. The plurality of sounds, words, sentences or texts is preferably stored in different output languages. You can choose between output languages such as English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Japanese.

In the storage devices of further preferred embodiments, e.g. The measured values, in particular of biodynamic sensors such as heart rate sensors, blood pressure sensors, cadence counters or other information devices such as GPS receivers with a preferably adjustable time period, are stored via the remote control device at a time interval to be determined, in order to be displayed on the acoustic output device or the optical display device at a later point in time. These measured values can preferably be transmitted from the storage device to an external data processing device in order to be processed, evaluated or displayed there.

A processor device is preferably provided, by means of which the total or average amount of energy converted per training unit in kilocalories (kcal) or kilojoules (kJ) as well as the current energy conversion rate are determined and at least from the biodynamic variables such as step and heart rate and the individual training duration determined by means of the time measuring device can be output via the acoustic output device.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one exchangeable memory device is provided, which is at least in signal connection with the control device. The exchangeable storage device is preferably of a group removed, which CompactFlash, Memory Stick, MultiMediaCard, Secure Digital, SmartMedia, XD Picture Card memory cards or devices and the like contains. The exchangeable memory device is preferably selected from this group in order to ensure compatibility with memory reader devices available on the market and exchangeable memories of external entertainment and / or information devices.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one optical display device is provided, which is at least in signal connection with the control device. In preferred embodiments, these optical display devices are taken from a group which includes liquid crystal displays, LEDs, tube screens, incandescent lamps, as well as pointers and arrows with or without a scale and the like. The optical display device is preferably suitable for supplementing the information output via the acoustic output devices or for displaying it in a different way. For example, a simple liquid crystal display is suitable for the optical representation of the numerical value of the heart rate, more complex colored TFT liquid crystal screens are suitable for supplementing the acoustic instructions in a portable navigation system by displaying the current location within a geographical map.

In a preferred development, at least one optical display device has at least one second transmitting and / or receiving device which is wirelessly signal-connected to the first transmitting and / or receiving device, as a result of which there is a preferred spatial separation between the optical display device, for example in the form of a display device with a wristband on the wrist or in the form of a display integrated in sunglasses, and which is preferably made possible in the vicinity of the control device, the first transmitting and / or receiving device. The display device is preferably designed as a mobile phone.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one remote control device has at least one third transmitting and / or receiving device, which is wirelessly signal-connected to the first transmitting and / or receiving device. This creates a preferred spatial separation between the remote control device, which is designed, for example, in the form of a handy radio or infrared transmitter and / or receiver with buttons, rocker switches, slide switches, rotary controls, a locking button to avoid unintentional operation when the remote control is not currently being used, or in a wrist-like form on the wrist, and is preferred in allows the proximity of the control device arranged first transmitting and / or receiving device.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one entertainment and / or information device has at least one fourth transmitting and / or receiving device, which is wirelessly signal-connected to the first transmitting and / or receiving device. This wireless connection is preferably suitable for wirelessly exchanging data between the entertainment and / or information device and the portable subunit of the device and / or the remote control device, e.g. wirelessly retrieve MP3 data from external PC, laptops or PDA, or receive measurement data, for example from the heart rate sensor of a heart rate monitor.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one remote control device and optical display device are integrated together in a wristwatch. In addition to the time and date display, alarm and stopwatch functions are also preferably integrated in the remote control device - in particular in that shape similar to a wristwatch. Training-statistical variables such as current energy turnover rate, total energy turnover, training duration, mean heart rate, peak heart rate, step frequency, blood pressure and the like can also preferably be represented via the optical display device. The optical display device is particularly preferably illuminable, in particular via its background.

In preferred embodiments, the body mass index and / or, for example, a fitness index can be determined from the ratio of step frequency to heart rate, taking body weight and body size into account, by entering body weight and body size using a keypad device. Advantageous embodiments have different training levels, in which the user is instructed, for example, to train in a specific heart rate interval and is informed by means of a signal tone and / or voice output when his heart rate exceeds or falls below the limit frequencies of this interval. Training levels are preferably proposed which correspond, for example, to a fitness index of the user, as determined above, in order in particular to avoid excessive stress on the circulatory system. Preferably, a history and statistics about the fitness parameters of the training units of a user are kept in the memory device, the training times in particular being stored in the individual training levels. The training level suggestions are preferably dynamically adapted to the fitness development of the user. In addition, training levels can be selected that are used to increase endurance, the fat burning rate or other physical Siological aspects are particularly advantageous. A plurality of user storage locations are particularly preferably provided for storing the data characterizing the fitness of different users.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one remote control device has a carrying device which is selected from a group of carrying devices which contains Velcro straps, arm and neck straps, belts, clips, clips, magnets and the like. Such carrying devices are preferably also conceivable on further subunits of the device, such as the optical display device and sensor devices for recording biometric data, such as e.g. a heart rate monitor or a pedometer. In particular, reflective sections are preferably integrated in the carrying devices, but also in other devices of the device according to the invention, in order to increase the conspicuousness of the user in the dark and thus his safety in road traffic. A suitable, preferably closable carrying bag or carrying bag is preferably provided for the protected transport of individual devices of the device according to the invention that are not currently being used.

In a preferred development, at least one remote control device is designed as a voice control device, which records voice commands of the user via at least one recording device, compares them in at least one comparison device with a certain number of words stored in at least one storage device, and generates first control signals associated with the recognized words if there is sufficient agreement and forwards it to the control device. In preferred embodiments, the voice control device has a learning mode in which it can be adapted to the user's voice in order to avoid or reduce misinterpretations of voice commands.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one decoding device is provided which, in particular, but not exclusively, encodes digital audio and / or video data into suitable, reproducible data and is signal-connected to at least the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device. The decoding devices are preferably suitable for decoding MP3, WMA or comparable audio data formats or MPEG-2, MPEG-4 or comparable video data formats.

Within the scope of the invention, such signals are understood to be reproducible on the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device, which: can be output on the respective output device without further decompression decoding, for example analog audio signals, ie alternating voltages in the frequency range between 16 Hz and 22 kHz, or analog or digital video signals or control signals for liquid crystal and / or corresponding to the respective optical display device. or LED displays.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one reception decoder device is provided which receives terrestrial and / or satellite-based audio and / or video signals and decodes them into suitable, reproducible data and is signal-connected to at least the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device.

Terrestrial and / or satellite-based audio and / or video signals are understood in the context of the invention to be, in particular, earth-bound radio and / or television transmitters or radio and / or television signals broadcast by satellites. A radio receiver is preferably integrated in the portable subunit, a television receiver in a remote control device provided with a suitable display device. In other preferred embodiments, the radio receiver is also integrated in the remote control device, which is designed, for example, as a wristwatch.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one energy supply device is designed as at least one accumulator which is taken from a group which contains lithium-polymer, lithium-ion, nickel-metal, hydride, nickel-cadmium and zinc-carbon. , Alkali accumulators and the like. At least one accumulator is preferably rechargeable and at least one charging device is provided. In a preferred development of the invention, solar cells are provided for charging and / or for energy supply. The device preferably has a charging status display, and preferably an alarm device, which generates a physically perceptible signal when the energy supply device is almost empty. The docking device preferably has a display device which is suitable for displaying the state of charge and / or information relating to the content and status of the data transmission between the docking device and the portable subunit. A charging control device is particularly preferably provided which controls the charging process of the batteries and in particular protects the batteries from overcharging by switching off the charging process after full charging.

In a preferred development, the portable subunit of the device is designed as headphones, preferably as ultralight headphones. In a preferred embodiment At least one docking device is provided in which the portable subunit of the device is inserted and / or hung, at least one signal connection being established between the docking device and the portable device.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one interface device is provided which at least connects the control device to at least one external data processing and / or storage device. In a preferred development, the at least one interface device is provided on the docking device. In a preferred development, at least one charging device is integrated in the docking device. It is conceivable that the at least one signal connection established between the portable subunit and the docking device also serves to supply charging current.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one interface device is taken from a group of interface devices, which in particular has USB, Firewire, WLAN, infrared, Bluetooth, DECT, GSM, UMTS interfaces and the like, which results in data exchange via widespread, standardized interfaces to entertainment and / or information facilities such as PCs, laptops, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), MP3 players, GPS receivers, digital photo and / or video cameras, mobile phones and / or cordless phones is simplified.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one data management program is provided, which has at least one data management functionality and / or at least one data transmission functionality for at least one storage device of the device. With its data management functionality, the data management program is preferably suitable for storing data stored in the memory device, in particular audio and / or video data from signal-connected entertainment devices and / or measurement data from signal-connected sensors such as pulse monitors, step frequency counters, location data from GPS receivers and the like, in data folders via identifiers to be assigned organize, search for specific stored data, display data attributes, change data identifiers or delete data.

Furthermore, due to its data transmission functionality, the data management program is suitable for transferring data stored in a storage device of the device, in particular audio and / or video data from signal-connected entertainment devices and / or measurement data from signal-connected sensors such as pulse monitors, step frequency counters, location data from GPS receivers and the like, to an external memory device. device, such as a PC, laptop, PDA, a cellular phone, etc. or vice versa from these devices to the storage device of the device.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one configuration program is provided which has at least one configuration functionality which controls at least one modification of at least one operating state of at least one subunit of the device. As operating states, e.g. the volume of the acoustic output device, amplification of a provided bass amplifier, settings of a provided electronic sound characteristic device for reverb effects and the like, brightness of the optical display device or its background lighting, selection of the measured variable to be output by the biometric sensors such as heart rate or cadence are mentioned.

Within the scope of the invention, the configuration functionality of a program is understood to be the presence of a program function for controlling functions of the subunits of the device with defined properties. Configuration functionality in this sense is e.g. the configurability of the sound characteristics of the signals output via the acoustic output device, which e.g. can assume discretely determined or continuously changing states. For example, the setting of reverb or sound effects, in particular for playing music, or the setting of a mode in which environmental noises are recorded via a recording device are conceivable, which are then output on the acoustic output device in such a way that they are superimposed on the acoustic output device in such a way that their superposition with the original ones Environmental noise largely eliminates the latter.

In a preferred development, at least one control and / or configuration program is provided on at least one external data processing and / or storage device which is signal-connected via at least one interface device. In a preferred embodiment, at least one control and / or configuration program is provided on a storage device of the portable subunit of the device and / or the remote control device.

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one information device has at least one sensor device which detects at least one biodynamic variable and generates at least one measurement signal characteristic of the variable. The biodynamic size is preferably taken from a group of sizes which, in particular, but not exclusively, heart rate, Blood pressure, number of steps, step frequency and step length. The sensors for the biodynamic variables are preferably designed in such a way that they are particularly, but not exclusively, suitable for medical purposes for jogging, endurance training in the fitness studio or for a long-term ECG.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one information device has at least one sensor device which detects at least one dynamic variable of a means of transport and generates at least one measurement signal characteristic of the variable. The dynamic size of a means of transport is preferably taken from a group, which contains, in particular, but not exclusively, speed, acceleration, distance traveled, maximum speed, cadence in the case of muscle-driven means of transport, as well as speed, fuel or energy consumption and engine temperature and the like in the case of motor-driven means of transport ,

In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one information device has at least one reception decoder device for satellite-based position signal transmitters, which receives signals from the satellites, decodes and determines the geographical location of the reception decoder device, in particular on the surface of the earth, but also, for example, under water. These are preferably signals from GPS satellites, but compatibility with the signals of the future European satellite navigation system Galileo is also conceivable.

In a preferred development, at least one information device has at least one sensor for wind speed and / or direction and / or air pressure and / or magnetic field, which generates at least one measurement signal characteristic of the variable. Such a sensor is preferably suitable for use on windsurfing facilities, golf or ballooning.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one information device has at least one sensor for falling speed and / or air pressure and / or height above sea level and / or the ground, which generates at least one measurement signal characteristic of the size. Such a sensor is preferably suitable for use in parachuting, paragliding, hang gliding or gliding.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one monitoring device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device and at least one data received from an information device. Compares the signal and generates a warning signal when a predetermined limit value is exceeded or undershot, which is preferably output on the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device. The warning is preferably given by voice output via the acoustic output device, and particularly preferably suggestions in the form of stored voice samples, countermeasures and / or recommendations for behavior are output. A combination of acoustic and visual warnings as well as output on remotely located devices, for example monitoring devices in hospitals for particularly risky persons at risk of heartbeat, is also conceivable. The limit values can preferably be changed, the change preferably taking place via the remote control device and / or via the configuration program.

A separately designed monitoring device preferably has at least one fifth transmitting and / or receiving device which is wirelessly signal-connected to at least the first and the fourth transmitting and / or receiving device.

Speech samples assigned to the measured values are preferably output on the headphones to warn and increase the actuality of the measured values and / or the importance in a shortened time interval and, if necessary, are faded into running music when the monitoring unit determines current measurement data that is in a predetermined, adjustable interval below the set one Limit. That e.g. a current pulse value measured just a little below a predetermined limit value is output via the headphones to warn the user at a shorter time interval.

Preferably, the reproduction of several different physical quantities from the same and / or other information devices associated with acoustic signals is staggered according to an adjustable priority in an adjustable playback frequency. For example, it is conceivable, if the corresponding frequency and pulse are recorded at the same time, that the acoustic reproduction of the pulse can be assigned a higher priority and, as a result, it is output more often. In a preferred development of the device according to the invention, at least one information device is designed as a mobile phone.

In a preferred development, at least one wireless signal connection is designed as a low-frequency radio transmission and / or reception device, preferably as a DMR01 transmission and / or reception device. A low-frequency radio signal connection between the subunits of the device is preferably suitable Control commands and measurement data can be transmitted wirelessly, insensitive to faults and energy-saving. The signal-connectable entertainment and / or information devices are preferably designed as modules or sub-units of the device which can be optionally supplemented and which allow the device to be expanded in stages.

In a further preferred embodiment, at least one information and / or entertainment device sends at least one identification signal to the first receiving and / or transmitting device of the portable subunit. This identification signal is preferably suitable for automatically configuring the portable subunit of the device for receiving and outputting the specific physical quantities of the associated information and / or entertainment device. Particularly preferably, the registration of an additional information and / or entertainment device with the portable subunit for receiving the measurement signals is only possible after the user-controlled activation of an acceptance mode for additional devices in order to allow the unwanted reception of measurement data of a possibly nearby user to a further device avoid.

A preferred development of the device according to the invention is used for monitoring biometric quantities during physical exertion, the biometric quantity being taken from a group of quantities which contains heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, step frequency, blood sugar level, lactate level and the like. Such use is preferably carried out during sporting activities.

Another preferred embodiment of the device is used as a navigation system for guiding the user with voice instructions. Such use is preferably carried out during outdoor sporting activities such as cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking, motocross driving or the like.

Another preferred embodiment of the device is used in mountaineering, hiking, sailing, surfing and the like, in particular, but not exclusively, for informing the wearer of the weather conditions and / or prospects.

A preferred embodiment of the device is used as an auxiliary device for the visually impaired or blind. In this case, at least one information device preferably records physical quantities, such as, for example, distances and speeds of the objects surrounding the user, in order to warn him acoustically of collisions. A camera is particularly preferably provided as the information device, and an image recognition program as the data processing program, which can assign images of the objects surrounding the user to these objects by comparison with video data of known objects stored in the storage device, provided there is sufficient agreement. Furthermore, a program can be provided which describes to the user the environment recognized as above via voice output on the acoustic output device. A navigation device by means of a GPS receiving device is preferably also provided for this use.

Another preferred embodiment of the device is used as an automatic guidance system for acoustically guiding the user between and / or describing objects of tourist interest, such as Exhibits of a museum or an exhibition, buildings, natural monuments or the like. The output of the appropriate descriptions of the objects is preferably triggered by location coordinates determined via a satellite navigation system, particularly preferably, in particular with regard to exhibits, by identification signal transmitters arranged thereon.

Further preferred embodiments relate in particular to voice-based guidance systems for library / archive employees and / or visitors and warehouse employees for voice-controlled guidance to locate specific books, documents, archive and storage items or the like. The location of the objects to be found and the searcher's guidance are preferably based on RF-ID technology. In other preferred embodiments, the routing is based on a combination of RF-ID and satellite navigation technology.

The design of the device according to the invention is preferably adapted to the respective application. For example, watertight designs are provided for applications in diving and water sports. Particularly when used in the field of fun sports, the device according to the invention has robust, eye-catching designs. For applications in the context of an automatic guidance system for acoustically guiding the user at a trade fair, in a museum or in an exhibition, delicate, elegant designs are preferred. In particular for applications in the medical field, for. B. in combination with a hearing aid miniaturized designs are advantageous.

The object of the invention is limited to the entertainment of the user and his information through physical measurement data. Further influencing of the user is not the subject of the invention. Other advantages and designs Forms of the present invention result from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings. In it show:

Fig. 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the device according to the invention with docking device and remote control device;

Fig. 2 is a schematic view of the device according to the invention with additional entertainment and / or information facilities.

In Fig. 1, the reference numeral 10 denotes the portable sub-unit of an embodiment of the device according to the invention. This is designed as an ergonomically shaped earphone 10, which has ergonomically shaped ear cup inserts 14 to improve the sound and to suppress ambient noise.

The brackets 12a, 12b initially extend obliquely downward from the oval-shaped loudspeaker enclosures 13a, 13b, in order to fit in an arc shape (not shown) in the gap between the rear ear cup and the head of the user, and thus a secure fit of the portable subunit to ensure the device during sporting activities, such as jogging. In the apex region of the headphone strap, the right and left strap halves 12a, 12b, which are preferably made of light plastic, open into an elongated flat housing 11, which forms an integral part of the strap.

At least one electrical interface device is provided on the underside of the housing 11, which is suitable if the portable subunit of the device designed as headphones 10, as shown in FIG. 1, via a mechanical receiving device likewise arranged on the underside of the bracket housing 10 in the apex region is hooked into a docking device 20 to establish at least one, preferably wireless, electrical connection between the docking device 20 and the ultralight headphones 10. As a result, the (not visible) lithium-ion battery provided inside the bracket housing 11 can be charged inductively via a charging device (not shown) provided in the docking device 20 when the device according to the invention is not in use. In another embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is also conceivable that the electrical connection between docking device 20 and headphones 10 can take place via a plug device, which does not necessarily have to be arranged in the apex region of the bracket. Furthermore, a flash memory (not visible) is preferably provided in the bracket housing 11, preferably for storing MP3-coded music files, and also a suitable decoder chip for decoding the files and for subsequent playback via the headphones 10.

The data transfer and / or playback processes are controlled by a control device which is preferably designed as a monolithically integrated microprocessor. The preferably compressed music data is transmitted to an external storage or data processing device, such as a laptop, preferably via standardized interfaces.

In the present exemplary embodiment, an infrared transmitter diode (not shown) is arranged in the vicinity of the tip of the docking and charging device 20, which is opposed by an infrared receiver diode arranged on the headphones when the headphones 10 are attached. This creates a wireless data connection between the memory of the headphones 10 and a laptop, for example connected to the docking device 20 via a USB cable. Additionally or alternatively, a USB socket or a socket compatible with USB signals is provided in the area of the crown housing 11 in order to establish a direct connection between the headphones 10 and a PC or laptop.

In the present exemplary embodiment, provision is also made to install a data processing or configuration program according to an advantageous development of the invention on a PC or laptop connected to the headphones 10 in the above manner, and thereby to manage the music tracks stored in the flash memory of the headphones 10 , ie either to transfer music tracks from the hard disk or a CD drive of the laptop into the memory of the headphones 10 or in the opposite direction, or to delete tracks previously stored in the flash memory.

Using the configuration functionality of the program in accordance with a preferred embodiment, it is possible, for example, to configure which additional modules, such as a pulse belt, an optical display device in the form of a wristwatch or a GPS Receiver via which interface, that is, a radio, infrared, USB interface or the like at which identification address to be set up can be addressed by the headphones 10 as the central unit of the device according to the invention.

In the present exemplary embodiment, it is further provided that the measurement data, which is transmitted wirelessly from a pulse belt (not shown) via a corresponding transmitting device to a corresponding receiving device within the bracket housing 11 and which is initially buffered in the flash memory of the headphones 10, via infrared or USB Interface, for example, can be transferred to a PC or laptop in order to be available there for evaluation or processing.

The reference numeral 30 designates the plastic housing of a radio remote control, on which a clip (not visible) on the back for fastening it, e.g. is arranged on the belt or an item of clothing of the user. The top of the remote control has six pushbuttons, with the aid of which 30 control commands can be transmitted wirelessly via a corresponding receiving device in the bracket housing 11 of the headphone 10 to the control device in the headphone 10 by means of a transmitting device of the remote control.

In the present example, the upper central button, for example, allows the first MP3 track in the memory to be played when pressed once. Pressing the same button again causes the MP3 player to pause. The lower central button stops the playback process completely. The upper right and left buttons allow you to skip forward or backward through an entire track or to fast-forward or rewind within the track while a track is being played. The buttons arranged at the bottom right and left allow the volume of the headphones 10 to be reduced or increased.

Both the headphone part 10 and the remote control 30 are preferably splash-proof in their respective housings for use in outdoor sports. Remote control is preferably carried out via a digital, wireless multi-channel transmitter or receiver (DMR01) from Dynatron, which is insensitive to interference signals due to the low-frequency control radio signals used. In addition, a data processing device is provided within the bracket housing 11, preferably as part of the integrated processor device, which detects the heart rate data received wirelessly by a pulse belt over a certain period of time, and determines the maximum or minimum of the heart rate within a certain interval, and preferably periodically or via this an additional button on the remote control, controlled by the pulse belt, fades in the data played in the music being played, and / or the processed data, such as the middle, the maximum and / or minimum pulse. The measurement or determination data is output by output of speech samples of all possible measurement values stored in the flash memory in the measurement range.

Furthermore, a monitoring unit is provided in the microprocessor, which continuously compares the received data signals of the heart rate with an adjustable limit value stored in the memory and issues a warning by voice output via the acoustic output device if the adjustable limit value is exceeded or undershot. In addition, suggestions in the form of saved speech samples are preferably given behavior recommendations.

If the monitoring unit determines current heart rate data which are below the set limit value in a predetermined, adjustable interval, the heart rate for warning and increasing the measured value actuality is output on the headphones in a shortened time interval and is faded into possibly running music, i.e. the distance between the data output on the headphones changes depending on the measured values.

2 shows the basic system of the device according to the invention which has been expanded by two information and one optical display device. In addition to the headphones 10, the docking device 20, the radio remote control 30, a pulse belt 40, an optical display device in the form of a wristwatch 50 and a GPS reception decoding module 60 are shown.

In addition, FIG. 2 shows a laptop 70 connected to the docking and charging device 20 via a USB or Firewire cable. The optical display device 50 has a liquid crystal display which, in addition to the time and date, can also stop interval times, and in particular in addition thereto is suitable, via an appropriate reception direction directly from the pulse belt 40, or via the headphones 10 to receive and display the measurement data of the pulse belt 40. A replaceable button cell is preferably provided for the energy supply of the optical display device 50. The housing of the watch is preferably 50 to 50 meters waterproof. In addition, other typical functions are integrated, such as an alarm function.

It is also conceivable that the optical display device 50 can take over functions of the radio remote control 30, such as remote control of the MP3 player integrated in the headphones 10, by means of a correspondingly integrated transmission and reception device. In addition, as shown, the watch has various buttons and buttons. It is also provided that the headphones can then be used to acoustically output the time, the date or the time that has elapsed since the start of jogging.

The reference numeral 40 shows the pulse sensor designed as a chest strap, which preferably has ECG accuracy and transmits digitally coded pulse data wirelessly to the headphones 10 via a corresponding low-frequency transmission device. Exchangeable batteries, in particular button cells, are provided for the energy supply. In order to protect the transmitting and receiving device of the chest belt 40 and the pulse sensor itself, its active subunits are housed in a watertight manner.

The reference numeral 60 designates a GPS decoding receiving unit integrated in a square housing, which determines the current geographic coordinates from the microwave signals received by at least three GPS navigation system satellites, and the digitally coded signals or measurement data calculated therefrom, such as the distance traveled since the beginning of a measurement interval or transmits the current and average speed via a likewise integrated transmission and reception device to the headphones 10 for acoustic reproduction as a fade-in into the music, and / or to the optical display device 50 for display. Exchangeable batteries, preferably rechargeable batteries with a longer lifespan, are provided for the energy supply of the GPS reception module 60. It is conceivable to use this personal entertainment and information system with the ultralight headphones 10 as a central unit by further sensors, such as e.g. to expand a cadence sensor, which is also connected via digital low-frequency data radio, or to expand a speedometer when cycling.

Claims

Expectations

1. Device for the integrated control and use of information and / or entertainment devices with at least one portable subunit, which

- at least one acoustic output device,

at least one first transmitting and / or receiving device,

- At least one energy supply device, and has at least one control device, each of which is in signal connection with the acoustic output device, and with the first transmitting and receiving device, characterized in that at least one information device is provided which is arranged separately from the portable subunit and which has at least one physical variable determined and at least one signal corresponding to the physical quantities is transmitted wirelessly to the first transmitting and / or receiving device, the control device outputting at least one signal assigned to it on the acoustic output device as a function of the received signal.

2. Device for the integrated control and use of information and / or entertainment devices with at least one portable subunit, which

- at least one acoustic output device,

- At least one energy supply device

- And has at least one control device which is in signal connection with the acoustic output device, characterized in that at least one signal corresponding to a physical variable, which of at least one information device arranged separately from the portable subunit can be determined, can be transmitted by wire to the portable subunit, the control device outputting at least the transmitted signal or a signal associated therewith on the acoustic output device as a function of the transmitted signal.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the received, the transmitted or the assigned signal is a voice and / or video signal.

4. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device.

5. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information and / or entertainment device arranged separately from the portable sub-unit is provided, which wirelessly transmits at least one data signal to the first transmitting and / or receiving device, the control device outputs at least one signal assigned to it on the acoustic output device as a function of the received data signal.

6. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal corresponding to the physical quantity and / or the data signal in the form of a video and / or audio signal, in particular a voice signal, via at least one frequency used for radio or television transmission is transferable.

7. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device transmits at least one control signal to the control device which controls at least one functionality of the device of the portable sub-unit.

8. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device transmits at least one control signal to at least one information and / or entertainment device which controls at least one functionality of the information and / or entertainment device.

9. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device transmits at least one first control signal to the control device which, depending on the first control signal, generates at least one second control signal which is sent to at least one via the first transmitting and / or receiving device an information and / or entertainment device is sent wirelessly and controls at least one functionality of the information and / or entertainment device.

10. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one data processing device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device.

11. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one memory device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device.

12. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one interchangeable memory device is provided, which is at least in signal connection with the control device, and which is taken from a group of interchangeable memory devices, which CompactFlash, Memory Stick, MultiMediaCard -, Secure Digital, SmartMedia, XD Picture Card memory cards or devices and the like contains.

13. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one optical display device is provided which is at least in signal connection with the control device.

14. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one optical display device has at least one second transmitting and / or receiving device which is wirelessly signal-connected to the first transmitting and / or receiving device.

15. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device at least one ne has a third transmitting and / or receiving device, which is wirelessly signal-connected to the first transmitting and / or receiving device.

16. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information device has at least one fourth transmitting and / or receiving device, which is wirelessly signal-connected to the first transmitting and / or receiving device.

17. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device and optical display device are integrated together in a wristwatch.

18. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device has a carrying device which is selected from a group of carrying devices which includes Velcro straps, arm and neck straps, belts, clips, magnets and clips.

19. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one remote control device is designed as a voice control device, which records voice commands of the user via at least one recording device, compares in at least one comparison device with a certain number of words stored in at least one storage device, and at sufficient control signals associated with the recognized words are generated and forwarded to the control device.

20. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one decoding device is provided which, in particular, but not exclusively, decodes encoded digital audio and / or video data into suitable, reproducible data and with at least the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device is signal-connected.

21. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one receiving decoder device is provided, which receives terrestrial and / or satellite-based audio and / or video signals, decoded into suitable, reproducible data and with at least the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device is signal-connected.

22. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one energy supply device is designed as at least one accumulator, which is taken from a group which lithium polymer, lithium ion, nickel metal hydride, nickel Cadmium, zinc-carbon and alkaline batteries and the like.

23. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one accumulator can be charged and at least one charging device is provided.

24. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the portable subunit of the device is designed as headphones, preferably as ultralight headphones.

25. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one docking device is provided, in which the portable subunit of the device is inserted and / or hung, at least one signal connection being established between the docking device and the portable device.

26. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one interface device is provided which at least connects the control device with at least one external data processing and / or storage device.

27. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one interface device is provided on the docking device.

28. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one loading device is integrated in the docking device.

29. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one interface device of a group of Interface devices is removed, which in particular has USB, Firewire, WLAN, infrared, Bluetooth, DECT, GSM and UMTS interfaces and the like.

30. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one data management program is provided which has at least one data management functionality and / or at least one data transmission functionality for at least one storage device of the device.

31. The device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one configuration program is provided which has at least one configuration functionality which controls at least one modification of at least one operating state of at least one subunit of the device.

32. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one control and / or configuration program is provided on at least one external data processing and / or storage device which is signal-connected via at least one interface device.

33. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one control and / or configuration program is provided on a storage device of the portable subunit device and / or the remote control device.

34. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information device has at least one sensor device which detects at least one biodynamic variable and generates at least one measurement signal characteristic of the variable.

35. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the biodynamic size is taken from a group which, in particular, but not exclusively, has heart rate, blood pressure, step frequency and step length.

36. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information device has at least one sensor device which detects at least one dynamic variable of a means of transport and generates at least one measurement signal characteristic of the variable.

37. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dynamic size of a means of transport is taken from a group of sizes which in particular, but not exclusively, speed, acceleration, distance traveled, maximum speed, in the case of muscle-driven means of cadence, and in Case of motor-driven means of transport contains speed, fuel or energy consumption and engine temperature.

38. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information device has at least one reception decoder device for satellite-based position signal transmitters, which receives signals from the satellites, decodes and determines the geographical location of the reception decoder device therefrom.

39. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information device has at least one sensor for wind speed and / or direction and / or air pressure and / or magnetic field.

40. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information device has at least one sensor for falling speed and / or air pressure and / or height above sea level and / or the ground.

41. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one monitoring device is provided, which is at least in signal connection with the control device and compares at least one signal received by an information device and generates a warning signal when a predetermined limit value is exceeded or undershot , which is preferably output on the acoustic output device and / or the optical display device.

42. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information device is designed as a mobile phone.

43. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one wireless signal connection is designed as a low-frequency radio transmission and / or reception device, preferably as a DMR01 transmission and / or reception device.

44. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one information and / or entertainment device sends at least one identification signal to the first receiving and / or transmitting device of the portable subunit.

45. Use of a device according to at least one of the preceding claims for monitoring biometric quantities during physical exertion.

46. Use of a device according to claim 45, characterized in that the biometric size is taken from a group of sizes which contains heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, number of steps, step rate, blood sugar level, lactate level and the like.

47. Use of a device according to at least one of claims 1 to 44 as a portable navigation system for guiding the user with voice instructions.

48. Use of a device according to at least one of claims 1 to 44 for mountaineering, hiking, sailing, surfing and the like.