AU2007221815A1 - Sports audio player and two-way voice/data communication device - Google Patents

Description

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act COMPLETE SPECIFICATION

(ORIGINAL)

Class Int. Class Application Number: Lodged: Complete Specification Lodged: Accepted: Published: Priority Related Art: Name of Applicant: Whobody, Inc.

Actual Inventor(s): Robert A. Foth, David K. Boyle Address for Service and Correspondence: PHILLIPS ORMONDE FITZPATRICK Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys 367 Collins Street Melbourne 3000 AUSTRALIA Invention Title: SPORTS AUDIO PLAYER AND TWO-WAY VOICE/DATA COMMUNICATION DEVICE Our Ref 813189 POF Code: 456774/484428 The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to applicant(s): -1- 800eq PWBI0001/MRK 1 SPORTS AUDIO PLAYER AND TWO-WAY VOICE/DATA COMMUNICATION S 2 DEVICE 0 3 4 CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 6 Serial No. 60/848,877 titled "Waterproof Audio Player 2-Way Voice/Data 00 o 7 Communication Device", filed on October 3, 2006, the entire contents and C 8 disclosure of which is incorporated herein in full by reference as if stated in full 9 herein.

C 11 FIELD OF THE INVENTION 12 The field of the present invention is audio players and communication 13 devices, in particular, audio players and communication devices used in sports, 14 such as, for example, aquatic sports, and related activities.

16 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 17 Participants in sports are limited, or in some cases, may be unable, to 18 listen to music and/or communicate as they participate in their sport. Aquatic 19 sports present various examples. For example, bodyboarders may want to listen to music while on the ocean between wave sets. If the music device is 21 submerged, if the music continues to play, the bodyboarder or other aquatic 22 sports participant misses the portion of the music that is played while the device 23 is submerged. As another example, people exercising with a paddleboard may 24 want to listen to books-on-tape while exercising. As yet another example, people on the beach may want to use a device to listen to music and or communicate 26 with friends who are, for example, surfing or bodyboarding.

27 In aquatic sports, music being played by conventional devices, such as, 28 for example, a radio, or an MP3 player, continues to play even if the user is 29 unable to hear the music due to extreme ambient levels (for example, an ocean wave collapses), competing audio sources, or submersion.

-2- PWB1000I1/MRK c 1 Some music devices have been made waterproof and are made to be O 2 worn by the user. Some such waterproof music devices employ ear mounted 3 speakers fitted with water barriers. However, extreme hydrodynamic forces 4 encountered by aquatic sport participants such as bodyboarders, surfers, 5 kayakers, wakeboards, etc. aggressively dislodge ear mounted speakers. Once In 6 dislodged these music players suffer degraded fidelity due to either partial or total 00 oO 7 interruption of the water barrier. Ear-mounted speakers obscure the wearer's N 8 ability to hear external sound and environmental cues such as waves, nearby 9 surfers, and directions from a lifeguard and may prevent and/or interfere with C 10 normal conversation between participants and others nearby, for example other 11 bodyboarders, kayaks, and surfers.

12 Loud speakers of standard design work poorly in aquatic environments.

13 Their concave shape easily fills with water and stop functioning when covered 14 with water.

Some waterproof music devices have been made to be secured to the 16 surface of an aquatic sports device. Such devices create a high profile with 17 respect to the surface of the aquatic sports device that tends to interfere with 18 comfort and/or movement by the aquatic sports participant.

19 Aquatic sport participants often need a high degree of mobility. A device that uses cords, wires, straps, harnesses etc. to transmit sounds to the user, 21 and/or to secure the device to the user and/or to the aquatic sports device may 22 limit and/or interfere with the participant's mobility.

23 Further, aquatic sports participants may want to share music programs in 24 real time or engage in two-way voice/data communication with others remotely located. For example, a person on the beach may want to communicate with a 26 bodyboarder in the water. Or a bodyboard instructor, (on his bodyboard), may 27 want to communicate with a student on a separate bodyboard.

28 Merely placing a two-way radio or digital music player into a waterproof 29 bag or container would not provide sufficient audio levels under some circumstances. For example, audio levels traveling through the waterproof bag PWB1000I1/MRK C 1 or container are attenuated, making it difficult to hear the audio in high ambient O 2 noise situations.

0 3 Further, merely placing a two-way radio or digital music player into a t' 4 waterproof bag or container requires the aquatic sports participant to manipulate whatever standard controls and/or view displays while the device is in the 6 waterproof bag or container. Trying to manipulate complex controls and view 00 7 displays on devices that are contained in a bag may be difficult, especially if the cN 8 aquatic sports participant's attention is focused on engaging in the relevant sport.

9 Further, when a waterproof bag or container contacts cold water, internal c- 10 humidity may condensate on the device which can damage sensitive electronic I devices and/or may compound the difficulty of manipulating complex controls 12 and/or viewing displays on devices enclosed in such a waterproof bag or 13 container. Further, the aquatic sports participant may be distracted by 14 manipulating controls and/or viewing displays, and may fail to recognize a possible dangerous situation such as an approaching surfer.

16 Further, terrestrial-based digital music players and two-way radios may be 17 damaged by extremes of shock, vibration, and foreign matter ingression 18 prevalent in aquatic sports.

19 Accordingly, an aquatic sports participant needs a unique music and twoway communication device that is capable of operating in such challenging 21 environments without interfering with the aquatic sports participants' mobility and 22 concentration.

23 24 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An exemplary embodiment of the present invention docks a waterproof 26 audio device into a recess in a top surface of a bodyboard (or other craft used in 27 aquatic sports or related activities). Docking the device into the body of the craft 28 serves to protect the device from impacts and mechanical stresses.

29 The exemplary device comprises a flat panel audio transducer acoustically coupled to a flat panel audio interface panel.

PWB1000I/MRK I The exemplary device comprises flat panel audio transducers, for example o 2 distributed mode audio transducers and/or piezo transducers, and/or other flat C 3 panel audio transducer technologies, whether now known or in the future 4 developed.

5 The exemplary device is adapted for generating audio frequencies to In 6 produce high fidelity audio at sound pressure levels sufficient for the high noise 00oO 7 environment that exists in aquatic sports. In the exemplary embodiment, the S 8 audio transducer(s) are acoustically coupled into the surface of the participant's 9 aquatic sport craft and into the body of the craft. As a result of the acoustical C 10 coupling, the surface of the board, and the body of the board, act as a distributed S11 mode loudspeaker.

12 In the exemplary embodiment, music playback is temporarily "paused" by 13 two-way radio voice/data communication or by submersion of the device as 14 detected by a submersion sensor. When incoming communication stops, or the device is no longer submerged, the music continues from the point it left off. This 16 allows the participant to hear priority messages over the music program. It also 17 allows the participant to resume music playback after surfacing. Further, the 18 participant's ears are not obstructed so that verbal two-way voice/data 19 communication with other participants nearby is no longer inhibited. The exemplary device has no visual display. Rather, the user interface is simplified, 21 announcing verbal cues when switches are depressed. For example, when the 22 participant depresses a volume key, the exemplary device announces "Volume 23 Up." 24 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 26 These and other features of the present invention are more fully set forth 27 in the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention. The 28 description is presented with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: 29 FIG. 1 depicts a cross-sectional view of an exemplary audio device docked into a cradle that is mounted into a bodyboard in an exemplary 31 embodiment of the present invention; PWBI0001/MRK N 1 FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of a human aquatic sport participant O 2 riding on a bodyboard in which the exemplary device of the exemplary 0 3 embodiment of the present invention is docked; t'q 4 FIG. 3 depicts a cross-sectional exploded view of the device of the 5 exemplary described embodiment of the present invention adapted for docking In 6 into an exemplary cradle in a body of a craft the cradle using an exemplary shaft 00 7 and an exemplary quarter-turn fastener; (Ni C- 8 FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary recess in a body of a 9 craft in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; C 10 FIG. 5 depicts a side plan view of the exemplary device of the exemplary I embodiment of the present invention; 12 FIG. 6 depicts a top plan view of the exemplary device of the exemplary 13 embodiment of the present invention; 14 FIG. 7 depicts an exploded perspective view of an exemplary user interface panel, an exemplary upper housing component, and an exemplary 16 rubber ring of the exemplary device of the present invention; 17 FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device of the present 18 invention being recessed and docked into an exemplary tow raft; 19 FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device of the present invention being recessed and docked into an exemplary surfboard; 21 FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device of the present 22 invention being recessed and docked into an exemplary paddle board; 23 FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device of the present 24 invention being recessed and docked into an exemplary wind surfing board; FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device of the present 26 invention being recessed and docked into an exemplary kayak; 27 FIG. 13 is a high-level block diagram depicting exemplary components of 28 exemplary device 1 in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 29 FIG. 14 is a graph that depicts results of empirical tests regarding audio levels produced by exemplary device of the exemplary embodiment of the 31 present invention; -6- PWB1000I1/MRK C 1 FIG. 15 depicts a cross-sectional view of a top-mounted device, cradle O 2 and form in an altemrnative embodiment of the present invention; 0 3 FIG. 16 depicts an exploded cross-sectional view of a top-mounted 4 device, cradle and form in an alternative embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 17 depicts a cross-sectional view of a top-mounted device in a further 6 alternative embodiment of the present invention; and 00 7 FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of an alternative embodiment in which

(N

N 8 a plurality of transducers are imbedded in a bodyboard underneath the top 9 surface of the board.

N 1 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 12 FIG. 1 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of an exemplary 13 embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 1, the exemplary 14 embodiment of the present invention comprises an exemplary waterproof audio device 1 that comprises an exemplary waterproof, watertight, housing 100.

16 The exemplary waterproof housing 100 of the exemplary embodiment 17 comprises an exemplary lower housing component 10 and an exemplary upper 18 housing component 11. In the exemplary embodiment, the exemplary lower 19 housing component 10 and the exemplary upper housing component 11 are joined together and sealed through ultrasonic bonding at a sealed joint 101. It 21 will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that the description 22 herein of ultrasonic bonding of the exemplary lower housing component 10 and 23 the exemplary upper housing component 11 is exemplary and non-limiting.

24 It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that other methods of joining and sealing the upper housing component 11 with the lower 26 housing component 10 could be used without departing from the spirit of the 27 present invention. For example, the exemplary lower housing component 28 could be joined with and sealed to the exemplary upper housing component 11 29 using a rubber seal, such as, for example, exemplary rubber ring 7, and/or mechanical fasteners. Other permanent and non-permanent joining and sealing 31 methods are possible, whether now known or in the future discovered.

-7- PWBI0001/MRK N Further, it will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that O 2 the description of two housing components 10 and 11 is illustrative and non- 3 limiting. Rather, in altemrnative embodiments, it would be possible to provide a 4 single-component housing.

The exemplary device 1 is hardened against extremes in water pressure, 6 temperature, shock, vibration, and foreign matter intrusion that are typical found 00 oO 7 in aquatic sport environments. The exemplary device 1 meets environmental Ni 8 specifications of at least International Standard CEI/IEC 529: 1989:IPX7.

9 It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that the N 10 description herein of the exemplary device 1 as meeting the specific 1 environmental specifications of International Standard CEI/IEC 529: 1989:IPX7 12 is exemplary and non-limiting. In alternative embodiments of the present 13 invention, the exemplary device may be housed in a housing that is not 14 waterproof, watertight, submersible or otherwise ruggedized against environmental elements. In some alternative embodiments, the housing may be 16 sealed to resist dust entering the interior of the housing.

17 Exemplary lower housing component 10 comprises an exemplary 18 cylindrical shaft 45 attached to, and extending from an exemplary docking recess 19 10b in the bottom surface 10a of exemplary lower housing component The exemplary embodiment further comprises an exemplary body 50 of 21 material. In the exemplary embodiment, the exemplary body 50 comprises a 22 bodyboard of common design. An exemplary bodyboard 70 of the exemplary 23 embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIG. 2. It will be understood 24 by someone of ordinary skill in the art that the description herein of the exemplary body 50 comprising an exemplary bodyboard 70 as depicted in FIG. 2 26 is illustrative and non-limiting.

27 In alternative embodiments, a body 50 may comprise a float tube or tow 28 raft 55 an example of which is depicted in FIG. 8, a surfboard 56 of common 29 design an example of which is depicted in FIG. 9, a paddle board 57 of common design an example of which is depicted in FIG. 10, a windsurfer board 58 of 31 common design an example of which is depicted in FIG. 11, a kayak 59 of -8- PWBI0001/MRK C I common design an example of which is depicted in FIG. 12, or other crafts, S 2 apparatus or bodies of material. It will be understood by someone with ordinary 3 skill in the art that the aforementioned integrations of the exemplary device as tc, 4 shown in FIGS. 8, 9, 10,11, and 12 are illustrative only. Rather, integrations into 5 other platforms, crafts and/or apparatus could be provided without departing from In 6 the spirit of the present invention.

00 7 FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device 1 being

(N

N 8 recessed and docked into an exemplary tow raft 55. The exemplary tow raft 9 depicted in FIG. 8 is illustrative, and one of numerous such designs that can be CI 10 used to float a person and/or can be towed behind a boat.

S11 FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device 1 being 12 recessed and docked into an exemplary surfboard 56. The exemplary surfboard 13 56 depicted in FIG. 9 is illustrative and non-limiting and is not intended to depict a 14 specific type of surfboard. Rather, it will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that there are a multitude of geometries, materials, and 16 optimizations of surfboards. The exemplary device 1 could be recessed and/or 17 docked and/or bonded into or onto any of such surfboard configurations without 18 departing from the spirit of the present invention.

19 FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device 1 being recessed and docked into an exemplary paddle board 57. Exemplary paddle 21 board 57 is of the type typically used for swim training and/or pool exercising and 22 its depicting in FIG. 10 is illustrative and non-limiting and is not intended to depict 23 a specific type or configuration of paddle board. Rather, it will be understood by 24 those with ordinary skill in the art that there are a multitude of geometries, materials, and optimizations of paddle boards. The exemplary device 1 could be 26 recessed and/or docked and/or bonded into or onto any of such paddle board 27 configurations without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

28 FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device 1 being 29 recessed and docked into an exemplary wind surfing board 58. Depicting exemplary wind surfing board 58 in FIG. 11 is illustrative and non-limiting and is 31 not intended to depict a specific type or configuration of wind surfing board.

-9- PWBI0001/MRK I1 Rather, it will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that there are a O 2 multitude of geometries, materials, and optimizations of wind surfing boards. The 0 3 exemplary device 1 could be recessed and/or docked and/or bonded into or onto 4 any of such wind surfing board configurations without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

6 FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary device 1 being 00 oO 7 recessed and docked into an exemplary kayak 59. Depicting exemplary kayak N 8 59 in FIG. 12 is illustrative and non-limiting and is not intended to depict a 0 9 specific type or configuration of wind surfer. Rather, it will be understood by N 10 those with ordinary skill in the art that there are a multitude of geometries, S11 materials, and optimizations of kayaks. The exemplary device 1 could be 12 recessed and/or docked and/or bonded into or onto any of such kayak 13 configurations without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

14 It will be understood that the above-described examples are illustrative and non-limiting. The exemplary device 1 could be docked in various other 16 crafts, including, by way of non-limiting example, a recess in an arm of a beach 17 chair, cooler or other furniture, in a recess in a dashboard of a boat or car, or in a 18 recess in the surface of a snowboard or wakeboard. The exemplary device 1 19 could be disengaged from one craft and docked into another craft, or even used independently.

21 Returning with reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary body 50 of the 22 exemplary embodiment further comprises an exemplary body top surface 51.

23 The exemplary body 50 of the exemplary embodiment further comprises an 24 exemplary recess 71.

FIG. 4 depicts an exploded perspective view of the exemplary 26 embodiment of the device 1 removed from exemplary cradle 2, which has been 27 removed from exemplary recess 71 in exemplary body top surface 51 of 28 exemplary body 50 of bodyboard 70. In the exemplary embodiment, the 29 exemplary recess 71 in exemplary body 50 is cylindrical in shape. Exemplary recess 71 comprises a floor 71a and an interior wall 71b. However, as will be 31 understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art, the description herein of a PWBI0001/MRK C 1 cylindrical shape of exemplary recess 71 is illustrative and non-limiting. Rather, O 2 other shapes of recess 71 could be used without departing from the spirit of the 3 present invention.

Cc, 4 Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary cradle 2 is seated 5 within exemplary recess 71. In the exemplary embodiment, an exterior 2c (see In 6 element 2c in FIG. 3) of exemplary cradle 2 is bonded into recess 71.

00 oO 7 With reference to FIG. 3, in the exemplary embodiment, exemplary cradle

(N

C 8 2 comprises an exemplary quarter turn fastener 40 attached to the bottom 9 surface 2a of the well (or cradle recess) 2b of the cradle 2. As will be explained C 10 further below, exemplary quarter turn fastener 40 is used to engage exemplary 11 cylindrical shaft 45, which is attached to, and extending from docking recess 1 0b 12 in the bottom surface 10a of exemplary lower housing component 10 of 13 exemplary housing 100 (see element 100 in FIG. 1).

14 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary housing 100 depicted in FIG. 1 is cylindrical in shape and comprises a cylindrical shaft 100a as depicted in 16 FIGS. 4 and 7.

17 Returning with reference to FIG. 1, in the exemplary embodiment, 18 exemplary housing 100 further comprises an exemplary exterior rim 77 around 19 the upper edge of the circumference (perimeter) of exemplary upper housing component 11. In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary rubber ring 7 21 surrounds exemplary exterior rim 77 of exemplary upper housing component 11.

22 As depicted in FIG. 5, exemplary rubber ring 7 extends over and encircles a 23 portion of exemplary user interface panel 5, and an upper portion of exemplary 24 upper housing component 11. FIG. 6 depicts a top plan view of exemplary rubber ring 7 encircling the exemplary exterior rim (not visible) of the housing 100 26 (not visible). In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary rubber ring 7 protects the 27 exemplary waterproof device 1, and also couples acoustic energy from the 28 exemplary device 1 into the exemplary body 29 Returning with reference to FIG. 1, in the exemplary embodiment, exemplary housing further comprises an exemplary user interface panel 5. In the 31 exemplary embodiment, exemplary user interface panel 5 is bonded by -11- PWBI0001/MRK CI 1 adhesives to an exemplary top surface 78 of exemplary upper housing O 2 component 11. FIG. 7 depicts an exploded perspective view of exemplary rubber 0 3 ring 7, exemplary user interface panel 5, exemplary acoustic interface panel 8, 4 and exemplary upper housing component 11. In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary user interface panel 5 comprises a thin polyester material that acts as 6 a sound board for acoustic energy. It will be understood by someone with 00 (3O 7 ordinary skill in the art that other materials and geometries could be used to form C 8 an interface panel that would conduct acoustic energy without departing from the 9 spirit of the present invention. That is, the description of the exemplary C 10 embodiment comprising a substantially cylindrical housing is illustrative and non- SI limiting; other shapes could be used without departing from the spirit of the 12 present invention.

13 As depicted in FIG. 6, exemplary user interface panel 5 comprises 14 exemplary graphic elements 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, and 36 that define tactile user switch locations. Exemplary user interface panel graphic element 30 comprises 16 a tactile user switch location for activating mobile two-way communication with 17 another device. Exemplary user interface panel graphic element 31 comprises a 18 tactile user switch location for reducing the volume of audio sound. Exemplary 19 user interface panel graphic element 32 comprises a tactile user switch location for navigating to the previous audio selection. Exemplary user interface panel 21 graphic element 33 comprises a tactile user switch location for pausing play of a 22 current audio selection. Exemplary user interface panel graphic element 34 23 comprises a tactile user switch location for navigating to the next audio selection.

24 Exemplary user interface panel graphic element 35 comprises a tactile user switch location for increasing the volume of audio sound. Exemplary user 26 interface panel graphic element 36 comprises a tactile user switch location for 27 party line communication.

28 It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that the 29 description herein of the exemplary graphic elements 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, and 36 is illustrative and non-limiting; other graphic elements, switch configurations, -12- PWBI0001/MRK C 1 materials, thickness, and geometries of exemplary user interface 5 are possible O 2 without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

3 In the exemplary embodiment, the bonds at the sealed joint 101 between tc, 4 exemplary upper housing component 11 and exemplary lower housing 5 component 10, and between exemplary user interface panel 5 and exemplary In 6 inner rim 78 of exemplary upper housing component 11 hermetically seal within 00 oO 7 the exemplary housing 100, various audio and communications related N 8 components described further below.

N1 8 components described further below.

9 Returning to FIG. 1, the exemplary waterproof audio device 1 of the C 10 exemplary embodiment of the present invention further comprises at least one S11 exemplary distributed mode audio transducer 12 retained within exemplary 12 waterproof housing 100 by retaining bracket 14. In the exemplary embodiment, 13 distributed mode audio transducers such as NXTTM exciters are used. However, 14 it will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that the description of use of NXTTM exciters is illustrative and non-limiting. In alternative 16 embodiments, other types of distributed mode audio transducers could be used 17 without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Further, in other 18 alternative embodiments, pistonic transducers, flat panel piezo transducers, or 19 other audio transducers or systems capable of generating or producing audio frequencies, whether now known or in the future discovered, could be used 21 without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

22 Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary waterproof audio 23 device 1 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention further comprises 24 an exemplary printed circuit board 18, an exemplary inductive battery charger 16 and exemplary rechargeable batteries 15. In the exemplary embodiment, 26 exemplary inductive battery charger 16 is connected to, and is adapted for 27 charging, exemplary rechargeable battenries 28 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary rechargeable batteries 29 provide electrical power to various electrical components described further below. In the exemplary embodiment, rechargeable batteries 15 comprise 31 rechargeable lithium batteries. It will be understood by someone with ordinary -13- PWBI0001/MRK 1 skill in the art that the use of rechargeable lithium batteries in the exemplary S 2 embodiment is illustrative and non-limiting; other battery technologies and S 3 methods of supplying power, whether now known or in the future discovered, 4 could be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For 5 example, in alternative embodiments, by way of non-limiting example, nickle- In 6 metal-hydride, nickel-cadmium, replaceable alkaline, or photovoltaic (solar), 00 oO 7 could be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In yet N 8 another embodiment, a dock (not shown) adapted for accepting the device 1 (N 8 another embodiment, a dock (not shown) adapted for accepting the device 1 9 could be used that would connect the docked device 1 to a personal computer (N 10 or other device USB port; the USB port would be adapted for downloading 11 music files to the alternative device music file download and battery charging.

12 In the exemplary embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 1, exemplary inductive 13 battery charger 16 is located in the bottom of the lower housing 10. When 14 exemplary inductive battery charger 16 is positioned in proximity to an appropriate alternating current electrical field, such as a desktop docking 16 bay, a current is induced into exemplary inductive battery charger 16; exemplary 17 inductive battery charger 16 will then charge exemplary rechargeable batteries 18 15. In the exemplary embodiment, printed circuit board 18 would comprise 19 exemplary battery charging circuitry, exemplary battery power monitoring circuitry, and power conditioning circuitry.

21 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary printed circuit board 18 22 comprises exemplary circuitry to facilitate all functions of exemplary device 1, 23 including, but not limited to, exemplary microprocessor circuitry, exemplary 24 microcontroller circuitry, and exemplary dedicated circuitry for controlling exemplary radio transceivers, exemplary receivers, exemplary decoders, 26 exemplary digital interfaces, and exemplary user interfaces; exemplary printed 27 circuit board 18 comprises exemplary circuitry for facilitating music upload and 28 download, audio playback, signal processing, power control, and manipulation of 29 all audio and data sources. Further, exemplary printed circuit board 18 comprises exemplary memory mass storage devices to facilitate playback of 31 stored digitally encoded music files MP3, WMA, etc). It will be understood -14- PWB10001/MRK I 1 by someone with ordinary skill in the art that description herein of specific types U 2 of digitally encoded music files, such as MP3, WMA, etc., is illustrative and non- 3 limiting; other types of digital encoding, whether now known or in the future 4 discovered, could be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

6 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary printed circuit board 18 is 00oO 7 mounted to exemplary lower housing component 10 using exemplary screws 28 C 8 and exemplary elastomeric isolators 27. Exemplary elastomeric isolators 27 9 protect exemplary printed circuit board 18 from shock, vibration and acoustic C 10 energy.

S11 Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary waterproof audio 12 device 1 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention further comprises 13 exemplary data antenna 23. In the exemplary device 1, exemplary data antenna 14 23 is mounted on exemplary printed circuit board 18. In the exemplary device 1, exemplary data antenna 23 is adapted for transmitting and receiving high speed 16 digital data via an exemplary wireless data link, such as, for example, a 17 BLUETOOTH® wireless data link. In the exemplary embodiment, the exemplary 18 BLUETOOTH® wireless data link comprises an exemplary BLUETOOTH® 19 transceiver imbedded in exemplary printed circuit board 18. In the exemplary embodiment, the exemplary BLUETOOTH® wireless data link facilitates 21 uploading and downloading of music programs by the user, software for 22 operating exemplary device 1, verbal feedback ques, remote control commands, 23 digital audio, and various software algorithms and commands. Additionally, in 24 the exemplary embodiment, the BLUETOOTH® wireless data link can be used to facilitate two-way voice/data communication between exemplary compatible 26 devices, as well as other devices such as cell phones, PDA's (Personal Data 27 Assistant), and wireless hubs.

28 It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that use in 29 the exemplary embodiment of BLUETOOTH® wireless technology is illustrative and non-limiting; other wireless protocols whether now known or in the future 31 discovered, such as, for example, 802.11, and other types of devices and PWBI0001/MRK N 1 messages could be used without departing from the spirit of the present S 2 invention. Alternatively, wired methods of data transfer, such as, for example, S 3 USB, could also be used without departing from the spirit of the present 4 invention.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary waterproof audio 6 device 1 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention further comprises 00 oO 7 exemplary radio signal antenna 21 is adapted for receiving common AM and FM

(N

N 8 broadcast radio signals. In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary radio signal 9 antenna 21 is further adapted for transmitting and receiving music program N 10 to/from neighboring devices that are similar to exemplary device 1. Accordingly, S11 with a plurality of specimens of exemplary device 1, groups of users can all listen 12 to (share) a single user's music program in real time.

13 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary radio signal antenna 21 is 14 further adapted for transmitting and receiving Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) signals for configuration, command, and remote control of exemplary 16 device 1. In the exemplary embodiment, an exemplary AM, FM, and RBDS 17 transceiver connected to exemplary radio signal antenna 21 is imbedded in 18 exemplary printed circuit board 18.

19 Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary waterproof audio device 1 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention further comprises 21 exemplary digital/satellite signal antenna 22. In the exemplary embodiment, 22 exemplary digital/satellite signal antenna 22 is adapted for receiving digital music 23 program from both terrestrial and Earth satellite sources. In the exemplary 24 device 1, XMTM satellite radio would be used. In the exemplary embodiment, an exemplary digital music transceiver corresponding to exemplary digital/satellite 26 signal antenna 22 is imbedded in exemplary printed circuit board 18. It will be 27 understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that use in the exemplary 28 embodiment ofXMTM is illustrative and non-limiting; other wireless protocols, 29 frequencies, modulation techniques and types of messages could be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

-16- PWBI0001/MRK 1 Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary waterproof audio O 2 device 1 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises an 3 exemplary two-way communication antenna 20. In the exemplary embodiment, 4 exemplary two-way communication antenna 20 is adapted for receiving and 5 transmitting two-way voice and communications and data messaging. In the In 6 exemplary embodiment, Family Radio Service (FRS) protocol is used for two- 00 (3O 7 way voice and data messaging. In the exemplary embodiment, an exemplary N 8 FRS transceiver corresponding to exemplary two-way communication antenna (N 8 FRS transceiver corresponding to exemplary two-way communication antenna 9 20, is imbedded in exemplary printed circuit board 18. In the exemplary (N 10 embodiment, the exemplary FRS transceiver would be operable to communicate S11 using the Family Radio Service (FRS) portion of the radio frequency spectrum.

12 The FRS is defined by the 47 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR), section 13 which is incorporated herein for all purposes by reference. 47 CFR section 14 governs personal telecommunications. The FRS radio spectrum is administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Frequency of FRS 16 operation is between 462.5625 MHz and 467.7125 MHz. FRS is used primarily 17 for voice communications. However, communication of tones and data is 18 authorized.

19 In one embodiment, the waterproof device 1 would comprise a two-way FRS radio that would be operated in a "slave mode" to facilitate two-way voice 21 communication while relieving the user of the task channel and privacy code 22 assignments. In such an embodiment, the waterproof device 1 would enter a 23 "slave mode" that would listen for, and that would synchronize to a "master" 24 radio. Subsequently, the waterproof device 1, in "slave mode" would follow the master radio's channel and code commands.

26 In another embodiment, the waterproof device 1 would comprise a two- 27 way FRS radio operated in a "party line" mode, whereby all local or nearby like 28 devices would be capable of, and adapted for, monitoring and communicating 29 with each other. In such a party line communication embodiment, the waterproof device 1 would enter/exit the "party line" mode with the touch of one button. In -17- PWBI0001/MRK S 1 such an embodiment, the "party line" channel and code assignment would be o 2 fixed and hidden from the user.

t 3 It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that there are 4 advantages to using transceivers operable to communicate within the FRS spectrum for aquatic sports communications. One advantage is that the 6 operable FRS frequency range (between 462.5625 MHz and 467.7125 MHz) 00 oO 7 facilitates the use of small antenna and other components due to the short N" 8 wavelength at these frequencies.

9 Another advantage of using FRS-capable transceivers is that even though r" 10 the propagation of these frequencies are predominately "line-of-sight", the S11 propagation of these frequencies nevertheless provides for some diffraction 12 around landscapes and fixed objects. Further, FRS utilizes an FM (F3E narrow- 13 band) modulation scheme which provides clear reception. The Effective 14 Radiated Power (ERP) for F3E narrow-band is 0.500 watts; this ERP facilitates a range of approximately 2 miles, but does not interfere with third-party 16 communications systems that are far away.

17 Another advantage of using FRS-capable transceivers is that a large 18 variety of hand-held FRS units are commercially available and are compatible for 19 use with this invention. Further, due to the large volume market of FRS units, FRS-compatible components and technology are inexpensive.

21 Another advantage of using FRS-capable transceivers is that FRS 22 provides 14 channels and 38 privacy codes. The high number of channels and 23 privacy codes provides a large number of unique combinations so that a large 24 number of users may operate privately in the same area at the same time.

Even though FRS would be used in the exemplary embodiment, it will be 26 understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that other frequency bands, 27 such as, by way of non-limiting example, the General Mobile Radio Service 28 (GMRS), could be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

29 Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary distributed mode audio transducer 12 is adapted for generating high volume audio sound waves. As 31 depicted in FIG. 1, exemplary distributed mode audio transducer 12 is retained in -18- PWBI0001/MRK C 1 exemplary upper housing component 11 with an exemplary retaining bracket 14.

S 2 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary retaining bracket 14 is secured to 3 exemplary upper housing component 11 by "heat-staking" protuberances 17 on 4 upper housing 11 that extend through retaining bracket 14. In the exemplary 5 embodiment, exemplary distributed mode audio transducer 12 comprises a top In 6 12a. In the exemplary embodiment, top 12a of exemplary distributed mode audio 00 oO 7 transducer 12 is mechanically bonded with adhesives to a bottom 8a of an N 8 exemplary acoustic interface panel 8.

9 Another embodiment of the exemplary device 1 would include one or more C 10 pistonic voice coils of common design bonded to the acoustic interface panel 8.

11 Yet another embodiment would use two or more voice coil audio 12 transducers bonded to a single, or split, acoustic interface panel 8. In such an 13 embodiment, the dual audio transducers would facilitate true stereo playback.

14 In a still further embodiment of the present invention, one or more distributed mode audio transducers 12 ("exciters") or other flat panel audio 16 transducers are mounted directly to (on top of; above) the top surface 51 of a 17 body 50 to acoustically drive the body 50. That is, in such an embodiment, the 18 surface 12 of the transducers 12 would be mounted in contact with the top 19 surface 51 of body 50. In such an embodiment, mounting one or more exciters directly to the top surface 51 of a body 50 would provide audio performance while 21 extending only a minimal height above the top surface 51 of the body 50, and 22 would not require a large recess to be opened into the body 50 to receive a 23 device 1' (see element 1' depicted in FIG. 18). In such an embodiment, device 1' 24 (see element 1' depicted in FIG. 18) would not necessarily comprise any audio transducer enclosed within its housing 10-11.

26 Yet still another embodiment of the present invention would comprise one 27 or more flat panel audio transducers mounted to a top surface 51 and/or to a 28 bottom 51' surface (shown, for example, in FIG. 18, and will be understood by 29 someone with ordinary skill in the art to refer to the bottom, underneath surface of body 50) of body 50. In such an embodiment, the flat panel audio transducers 31 provide enhanced wide fidelity music playback.

-19- PWB1000I1/MRK I Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, in the exemplary embodiment, a top S 2 surface 8b of exemplary acoustic interface panel 8 is adhesively bonded to a S 3 bottom surface 5a of exemplary user interface panel 5. In the exemplary O 4 embodiment, by adhesively bonding the top surface 8b of exemplary acoustic 5 interface panel 8 to the bottom surface 5a of exemplary user interface panel In 6 audio sound waves generated by audio transducer 12 are conducted to acoustic 00 oO 7 interface panel 8 which, in turn, conducts the audio sound waves to exemplary S 8 user interface panel 5, which causes radiation of the audio sound into the air.

9 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary user interface panel 5 is also S 10 bonded by adhesives to exemplary upper housing component 11. In turn, audio 11 energy entering acoustic interface panel 5 is propagated through exemplary 12 upper housing component 11 to exemplary rubber ring 7 and then into the body 13 50. Further, sound waves are conducted through the body of audio transducer 14 12 and propagate through exemplary upper housing component 11, exemplary lower housing component 10, and exemplary cradle 2, into the body 16 In an alternative embodiment, it would be possible to provide at least a 17 second flat panel transducer housed within housing 100 that is acoustically 18 coupled to lower housing component 10 for stronger acoustic coupling into body 19 In the exemplary device 1, printed circuit board 25 comprises circuitry for 21 interfacing with, and connected to, a plurality of exemplary tactile user switches 22 47; exemplary tactile user switches 47 underlie corresponding exemplary graphic 23 elements 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, and 36 depicted in FIG. 6 on exemplary user 24 interface panel 5. When exemplary tactile user switches 47 are pressed, simple audio tones indicate actuation of the corresponding switch. Special user-defined 26 sound effects and speech can be used to indicate switch actuation or device 27 status changes.

28 In the exemplary device 1, printed circuit board 25 further comprises 29 circuitry for interfacing with, and connected to, an exemplary submersion sensor 6, and an exemplary microphone 26. When the exemplary device 1 is fully 31 submerged in water, the submersion sensor 6 and corresponding circuitry in 20 PWBI0001/MRK I exemplary printed circuit board 25 automatically pauses playback of music O 2 program. When the submersion sensor 6 is no longer underwater, the c 3 submersion sensor 6 and corresponding circuitry in exemplary printed circuit 4 board 25 automatically resumes music program playback at the point where playback was paused upon submersion. This is done in the exemplary 6 embodiment by resuming feeding audio signals from the audio source to the 00 7 audio transducer 12.

C1 8 In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary microphone 26 is adapted to 9 receive voice input; exemplary microphone 26 and corresponding microphone C 10 circuitry in exemplary printed circuit board 25 are connected to the exemplary 11 two-way FRS transceiver imbedded in exemplary printed circuit board 18 as 12 previously mentioned above. In the exemplary embodiment, exemplary 13 microphone 26 and corresponding microphone circuitry in exemplary printed 14 circuit board 25, exemplary two-way communication antenna 20, and the exemplary two-way FRS transceiver imbedded in exemplary printed circuit board 16 18 would be adapted for working together for receiving and transmitting two-way 17 voice and communications and data messaging.

18 In the exemplary embodiment, a microcontroller element 204 19 depicted in FIG. 13) is programmed to monitor the incoming channel of the twoway transceiver. When the microcontroller detects incoming audio signals over 21 the incoming channel of the two-way transceiver, the microcontroller is 22 programmed to pause audio playback through the audio transducer 23 element 12 depicted in FIG. 1) to, and switch the audio source for, the feed of 24 audio signals to the audio transducer element 12 depicted in FIG. 1) to the incoming channel of the two-way transceiver.

26 With reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, mechanical retention of the exemplary 27 device 1 to exemplary cradle 2 is achieved via engagement of exemplary 28 cylindrical shaft 45 extends from the recess 10b located in the bottom surface 29 10a of exemplary lower housing component 10, and exemplary quarter turn fastener 40 located in the center of exemplary cradle 2. FIG 3 is a partially 31 exploded cross-sectional view of the exemplary device 1, exemplary cradle 2, -21- PWBI0001/MRK I and exemplary recess 71 in body 50. Exemplary device 1 is docked and S 2 mechanically fastened in the cradle 2 by inserting exemplary lower housing C 3 component 10 into exemplary cradle 2, and rotating exemplary lower housing 4 component 10 of the exemplary device 1 ninety degrees clockwise until further rotation is stopped. When the exemplary device 1 is fastened into exemplary 6 cradle 2 when exemplary device 1 is docked in exemplary cradle 2), 00 oO 7 exemplary rubber ring 7 contacts surface 51 of body c-I c 8 To disengage the exemplary device 1 from exemplary cradle 2, the 9 process is reversed, rotating exemplary lower housing component 10 of the C 10 exemplary device 1 counterclockwise until exemplary device 1 is freed from S11 exemplary cradle 2.

12 It will be understood by someone of ordinary skill in the art that the use in 13 the exemplary embodiment of exemplary cylindrical shaft 45 located in the 14 recess 10Ob in the bottom surface 10a of exemplary lower housing component to engage exemplary quarter turn fastener 40 located in the center of exemplary 16 cradle 2 is illustrative and non-limiting. Various alternatives could be used to 17 fasten exemplary device 1 in body 50 without departing from the spirit of the 18 invention. For example, a TY-WRAPTM cable tie fastened to the bottom of 19 exemplary device 1 could be threaded through a whole in the bottom of recess 71 and fastened with a washer on the opposite side of body 50. As a further 21 alternative, the exterior circumference of lower housing component 10 could be 22 threaded to screw into corresponding threading of the interior walls of recess 71, 23 or of the interior walls of a cradle bonded in recess 71, or a threaded shaft that 24 goes through the board. In a yet further alternative embodiment, exemplary device 1 could be fully integrated into body 50 without a cradle. In a still further 26 alternative embodiment, exemplary device 1 could be mounted on the surface 51 27 of body 28 FIG. 13 is a high-level block diagram depicting exemplary components of 29 exemplary device 1 in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 13, exemplary device 1 comprises exemplary mass storage 200, 31 exemplary user interface circuitry 201, a plurality of sensors 202 (including, for 22 PWB10001/MRK N 1 example, an exemplary submersion sensor 202a, an exemplary temperature o 2 sensor 202b, an exemplary acceleration sensor 202c, and an exemplary GPS C 3 sensor 202d). In other embodiments, other sensors, such as, by way of non- 4 limiting example, a compass sensor, a gyroscopic sensor, an ambient noise sensor, and/or a water depth sensor could be provided without departing from 6 the spirit of the present invention.

00 7 The exemplary device 1 further comprises exemplary analog switches c-I c 8 203. Exemplary analog switches 203 correspond to the various exemplary 9 graphic elements 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, and 36 on exemplary user interface C 10 panel 5 as depicted in FIG. 6. Exemplary analog switches 203 are connected to I an exemplary FRS transceiver 214, an exemplary BLUETOOTH® transceiver 12 211, an exemplary AM/FM transceiver 212, and an exemplary digital/satellite 13 XMTM) radio transceiver 213. Analogue audio sound passed through 14 exemplary analog switches 203 is then passed through the Power Amplifier(s) 210 which drive(s) exemplary Speakers 216.

16 The exemplary device 1 further comprises a battery charger 208, and a 17 power supply 209 that converts Battery voltage (from rechargeable 18 batteries, element 15, and as depicted in FIG. 1) to regulated voltage levels for 19 use by system circuits.

The exemplary device 1 further comprises a microcontroller 21 (microprocessor) 204, an MP3 Decoder 205, an audio DACS/Signal processor 22 206, and a microphone (Mic) interface 215.

23 The exemplary device 1 further comprises a USB port 207.

24 In the exemplary embodiment, compressed music files may be downloaded from, for example, a personal computer, into Mass Storage 200 by 26 the microcontroller (microprocessor) 204 via the USB port 207 (or alternatively, a 27 wireless 802.11 port).

28 In the exemplary device, music playback is facilitated by the 29 microcontroller (microprocessor) 204 transferring compressed music files from Mass Storage 200 to the exemplary MP3 Decoder 205 for decompression.

31 Decompressed digital music data is transferred into the Audio DACs 206 and -23- I V PWBI0001/MRK

O

N I converted into analog audio signals (mono or stereo). Analog audio is passed o 2 through the Analog Switches 203, through the Power Amps 210 which drives 3 exemplary Speakers 216. One or more Power Amp 210 and Speaker 216 4 elements may be employed.

In the exemplary device 1, direct current (DC) power can be passed 6 through the USB port 207 to the Charger 208 (or alternatively through a coupled 00 7 inductive link), which recharges batteries 15. Battery voltage is converted to 8 regulated voltage levels by Power Supply 209 for use by system circuits.

9 Further, in an alternative embodiment, audio from an external source, C 10 such as, for example, a radio or digital music player, could be entered through a 11 USB port, or other wired or wireless connection(s), of a type whether now known 12 or in the future discovered, that connect to the analog switches 203, the power 13 amps 210 and the audio exciter 216. For example, with reference to FIG. 4, 14 such an alternative embodiment could provide an additional (optional) recess 121 in body 50; the additional recess 121 would be disposed to receive and enclose a 16 separate (optional) audio communication device 120, such as, for example, a 17 radio, a cellular telephone, transceiver, or digital music player such as, by way of 18 non-limiting example, an IPODTM 19 It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that in such an alternative embodiment, a separate recess 120 could be provided in the body 21 of the craft for receiving and enclosing a separate music, audio or communication 22 device 120, such as, by way of non-limiting example, an IPODTM, cellular phone, 23 or other separate audio device that is external to, but that communicates with, 24 exemplary device 1. In such an embodiment, the separate audio device 120 would, would use exemplary device 1 for audio amplification of the audio 26 received by the separate device 120 in the separate recess 121.

27 In such an alternative embodiment, it would be possible for exemplary 28 device 1 to receive or produce a first type of audio signals, for example, radio; 29 separate audio device 120 could receive or produce a second type of audio signal, for example, digital music. Device 120 could also produce a third kind 31 audio signal, for example, two-way communication. Exemplary device 1 in such 24 PWBI0001/MRK I1 an embodiment would amplify the audio produced or received by itself, and 2 would also be adapted to amplify the audio received from the separate audio 0 3 device 120. Alternatively, exemplary device 1 could be adapted for audio 4 amplification, but would not itself produce audio; in such an embodiment, separate audio device 120 could be the sole source of audio for amplification 6 using exemplary device 1.

00O 7 Continuing with reference to FIG. 13, the exemplary device 1, FRS C 8 transceiver 214 receives RF signals via FRS Antenna (see, element 9 depicted in FIG. 1) and outputs an analog audio signal that can be routed to the C 10 Power Amp 210 and Speakers 216 via the Analog Switches 203 under the S11 control of the microcontroller (microprocessor) 204. FRS Radio channel tuning 12 and privacy code detection may be controlled and/or performed by 13 microcontroller (microprocessor) 204 and/or dedicated circuits within the FRS 14 Radio.

In the exemplary device 1, user voice is converted by Mic Interface 215 16 into an analog signal and passed to the FRS Radio transceiver 214, which 17 modulates the signal on the FRS transmit channel. Alternatively, the 18 microcontroller (microprocessor) 204 can process this voice signal for clarity 19 before being transmitted. FRS Radio transmission is controlled by User Interface 201 input Push-to-Talk button). FRS Radio channel and privacy code 21 usage is controlled by default settings, and altered by Master Radio input.

22 In the exemplary embodiment, pressing the Push-to-Talk button pauses 23 audio playback signals fed to the audio transducer 12 (see, FIG. 1).

24 In the exemplary embodiment, the exemplary device 1 operates FRS Radio as a "Slave." to a detected "Master" radio. The Slave monitors a default 26 channel and privacy code and "slaves" itself to the first detected Master to 27 transmit an assignment signal. Once "slaved", the Master can reassign the 28 channel and/or privacy code assignment so that optimum FRS Radio traffic is 29 attained. The slaved FRS radio follows the master's commands until power is cycled or User Interface 201 commands otherwise.

PWBI0001/MRK 1 The BLUETOOTH® Radio transceiver 211 (or similar system) is used to S 2 facilitate wireless file transfer from PC's or other external devices to the C 3 exemplary device 1, or between two or more devices of the same type, or 4 compatible with, exemplary device 1.

5 Exemplary microprocessor 204 facilitates music file downloads to Mass In 6 Storage 200, and/or, music file uploads to external devices. Alternatively, 00 oO 7 downloaded music files can also be directed by Microprocessor 204 into C 8 exemplary MP3 Decoder 205, bypassing Mass Storage 200. Doing so would 9 allow instantaneous file sharing for real-time playback.

C 10 The embodiment depicted in FIG. 13 would include an AM/FM Radio 11 transceiver 212 (or similar) and a Satellite Radio transceiver 213 XM or 12 similar) to facilitate receiving AM/FM radio and/or Digital/Satellite radio from 13 external music sources. The Microprocessor 204 (or dedicated circuitry) would 14 control these radio receivers and would direct either an analog audio signal to the Power Amp 210 and Speakers 216 through the Analog Switches 203, or a 16 compressed audio file through the MP3 Decoders 205 to the Power Amp 210 17 and Speakers 216 through the Analog Switches 203.

18 In the exemplary device 1, a plurality of sensors 202 connected to the 19 microcontroller (microprocessor) 204 helps the unit maintain optimum configuration and provides the user with information about the user's 21 environment. For example, the submersion sensor 202a pauses music playback 22 when the exemplary device 1 is underwater. Music playback continues when 23 the exemplary device 1 is again above water. The exemplary temperature 24 sensor 202b allows temperature to be verbally announced to the user.

Acceleration information sensed by the acceleration sensor 202c can be used to 26 plot velocities and accelerations and can also be used to "dead reckon" a user's 27 course on the water. Global Positioning System (GPS) information from the GPS 28 sensor 202d can provide information to the user about course, speed, direction, 29 and positioning.

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary human aquatic sports 31 participant 75 riding atop a exemplary body 50 in which the exemplary -26- PWBI0001/MRK C I embodiment of the device 1 is embedded in exemplary body 50. In FIG. 2, O 2 exemplary body 50 comprises a bodyboard 70. Because in the exemplary 3 embodiment, exemplary body 50 comprises a bodyboard 70, reference herein to 4 the bodyboard 70 of the exemplary embodiment may be made to bodyboard 5 reference herein to the surface 51 of bodyboard 50 may be made to bodyboard In 6 surface 51, or may be made to the top surface 51 of bodyboard 00 oO 7 The exemplary embodiment of the device 1 being mechanically connected N 8 to bodyboard 50 acoustically couples sound waves into the surface 51 of the 9 bodyboard 50. In the exemplary embodiment, acoustic coupling into the surface c 10 51 of a body 50 is accomplished in at least two ways. First, exemplary rubber S1 ring 7 contacts surface 51 of body 50. It will be understood by someone with 12 ordinary skill in the art that the description of exemplary rubber ring 7 is 13 illustrative and non-limiting. Rather, as will be understood by someone with 14 ordinary skill in the art, it would be possible to use other ways and materials for coupling an audio-excited panel, exemplary user interface panel 5, to a 16 surface 51 of a body 50 into which an exemplary device 1 is imbedded. For 17 example, members made of various flexible and/or elastomeric materials other 1.8 than rubber could be used to couple an audio-excited panel, exemplary user 19 interface panel 5, to a surface 51 of a body 50 into which an exemplary device 1 is imbedded. Further, such members could be formed in various geometries 21 other than a ring.

22 Another way in the exemplary embodiment that acoustic coupling into the 23 surface 51 of a body 50 is accomplished is by the conducting of sound waves 24 that are propagated by the audio transducer 12 through exemplary upper housing component 11 and exemplary lower housing component 10, then 26 through exemplary cradle 2, then into the body 50, and then through the surface 27 51 of the body 28 As mentioned previously above, it would be possible in alternative 29 embodiments, to fasten the audio device directly into a recess in body 50 by "screwing" threaded exterior walls of the housing of device 1 into the threaded 31 interior walls of a recess, such as recess 71. In such an embodiment, no cradle -27 PWBI0001/MRK I would be provided. The direct contact between the housing in such an O 2 embodiment, with the interior walls and/or the floor of the recess, recess C 3 in body 50 results in further acoustic sound level that emanates through surface 4 51. In such an embodiment, a thin coating of the interior walls of the recess, e.g., recess 70 could be applied to protect the body from environmental factors when 6 the device 1 is removed.

00O 7 It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that the C1 8 extent of audio sound level enhancement may be affected by the material 9 composition of body 50. For example, a body 50 comprising STYROFOAM® C1 10 may tend to better conduct audio sound waves than a body 50 comprised of a S11 solid plastic.

12 The above-mentioned acoustic coupling enhances many facets of the 13 aquatic sport participant's listening experience. One of the enhancements is 14 overall audio sound level.

Empirical testing shows the audio sound level produced by exemplary 16 device 1, and reinforced by the surface 51 of the exemplary body 50, and the 17 overall exemplary body 50, provides an increase in sound level of approximately 18 20db. FIG. 14 is a graph that depicts results of empirical tests regarding audio 19 levels produced by exemplary device 1 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 14, the x-axis relates to audio frequency, measured in 21 Hertz the y-axis relates to sound level (also referred to as audio amplitude), 22 measured in decibels 23 In FIG. 14, plotted curve 66 (a dotted line) reflects the audio profile of the 24 exemplary device 1 as measured when the exemplary device operated in free space. Plotted curve 65 (a solid line) reflects the audio profile of the exemplary 26 device 1 when the exemplary device 1 was mounted into an exemplary 27 bodyboard 50. As depicted in FIG. 14, plotted curve 65 is in most instances, at 28 least as strong as plotted curve 66, and in most cases, is significantly higher. As 29 depicted in FIG. 14, gains in sound level realized by conducting sound energy from the exemplary device 1 into the bodyboard 50 are, in some cases, more 28 PWBI0001/MRK 1 than 10dB(A), and in some cases, as high as 20dB(A). Frequency response has O 2 also been enhanced, especially in the 100-2000Hz range.

S 3 Another enhancement that results from the exemplary device 1 being 4 mechanically and acoustically coupled to bodyboard 50 and bodyboard surface 5 51, is that the audio spectral response of exemplary device 1 is equalized. That In 6 is, bass audio response is increased due to the low frequency resonance of 00O 7 bodyboard 50, and the bodyboard surface 51.

C 8 Yet another enhancement that results from the exemplary device 1 being 9 mechanically and acoustically coupled to bodyboard 50 and bodyboard surface C1 10 51, is that the entire surface 51 of the exemplary bodyboard 50 acts as a S11 distributed mode sound board or speaker. That is, the audio image presented to 12 the aquatic sport participant 75 sounds like it is fully encircling the participant 13 The entire surface 51 of the exemplary bodyboard 50 acting as a distributed 14 mode sound board or speaker contrasts to a loudspeaker of common design where audio sound emanates from a driver and sounds to the participant as if the 16 audio sound is emanating from a point. source.

17 In the exemplary embodiment, the exemplary device 1 is mounted into 18 exemplary bodyboard 50 so that the top of the exemplary device 1 is flush, or 19 nearly flush, with the top surface 51 of the exemplary bodyboard 50. Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, the exemplary device 1 being recessed into the 21 bodyboard 50 does not interfere with the exemplary bodyboard's 50 normal 22 function. Further, it does not encroach into the participant's 75 domain on the 23 exemplary bodyboard 24 It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that recessing exemplary device 1 so that the top of exemplary device 1 is flush, or 26 nearly flush with the top surface 51 of the exemplary bodyboard 50 is illustrative 27 and non-limiting. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, it 28 would be possible to recess the exemplary device 1 further into the exemplary 29 bodyboard 50 so that a well would be formed in the exemplary bodyboard's surface 51. As a further alternative, exemplary device 1 could be mounted on 31 top of (above) the exemplary bodyboard's surface 51.

PWBI0001/MRK I FIG. 15 depicts a cutaway sectional view of an alternative embodiment of O 2 the exemplary device 1 in which the device 1 is mounted to the top surface 51 of 0 3 a body 50. In the alternative embodiment depicted in FIG. 15, exemplary device 4 1 is mounted into an exemplary cradle 2.

5 As depicted in FIG. 16, in such a top-mounted embodiment, exemplary In 6 cradle 2 is set within a form recess 85 provided in an exemplary form 80. In the 00 7 alternative embodiment, exemplary form 80 comprises a material adapted for N 8 conducting audio waves, such as, for example, STYROFOAM®, Expanded 9 Polypropylene (EPP) foam, or other type of material. Exemplary bottom form C 10 surface 82 of exemplary form 80 is bonded to, affixed to, or otherwise in contact 11 with, exemplary surface 51 of body 12 In such a top-mounted embodiment, audio waves generated by exemplary 13 device 1 are conducted into exemplary cradle 2. Cradle 2 in turn, conducts the 14 audio waves into exemplary form recess surface 90 of the exemplary form recess 85. Audio waves conducted into exemplary form recess surface 90 are then 16 conducted into exemplary form 80 and are then conducted into exemplary 17 surface 51 and then into exemplary body 18 In the alternative embodiment depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16, exemplary 19 device 1 is similar to that depicted in FIG. 1. In the alternative embodiment depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16, an elastomeric rim 7 conducts audio waves from a 21 device housing elements 10-11 depicted in FIG. 16) of device 1 to 22 exemplary form top surface 81. Audio waves are then conducted from the body 23 of form 80 into the exemplary bottom form surface 82, then into the exemplary 24 board surface 51 of the exemplary board It will be understood by someone with ordinary skill in the art that the 26 alternative embodiment depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16 is non-limiting and 27 illustrative. Other geometries and materials that are adapted for conducting 28 acoustic sound waves and/or support the exemplary device 1 could be used 29 without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, FIG. 17 depicts a cutaway sectional view of a further alternative top-mounting 31 embodiment of the exemplary device 1. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 17, PWBI0001/MRK I 1 device 1 would provide a low profile, and would be affixed, bonded, or otherwise 0 2 in contact with the top surface 51 of body C 3 In the further alternative embodiment depicted in FIG. 17, alternative 4 exemplary device 1 would provide an alternative housing geometry that would be formed by joining exemplary upper housing 11 to alternative exemplary lower 6 housing 96. Alternative exemplary lower housing 96 would have an alternative 00 oO 7 exemplary bottom surface 97. Alternative exemplary bottom surface 97 would be c-I C 8 affixed to, bonded to, or otherwise in contact with, exemplary board surface 51.

9 Audio sound waves generated by exemplary device 1 would be conducted into C 10 alternative exemplary lower housing 96 and then into exemplary board surface 11 51. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that the further 12 alternative embodiment depicted in FIG. 17 is illustrative and non-limiting. Other 13 geometries and materials adpated to conduct acoustic sound waves and/or 14 support the exemplary device 1 could be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

16 Continuing with reference to FIG. 2, in the exemplary embodiment, 17 exemplary device 1 is located towards the front 106 of the exemplary bodyboard 18 50 allowing the exemplary device 1 to be above the waterline during use. That 19 is, when the participant 75 sits or rides on the exemplary bodyboard 50, the rear 105 of the exemplary bodyboard 50 may tend to be submerged below the 21 waterline. Further, locating the exemplary device 1 towards the front 106 of the 22 exemplary bodyboard 50 generally positions the exemplary device 1 below the 23 participant's 75 head, thereby maximizing audio volumes and audio fidelity for 24 the participant's listening. Even so, it would be possible to position the exemplary device 1 in other locations on the exemplary bodyboard 50 without 26 departing from the spirit of the present invention.

27 In a further alternative embodiment of the invention depicted in FIG. 18, a 28 device 1' is recessed in the body 50 of bodyboard 70. In the further alternative 29 embodiment of the invention depicted in FIG. 18, device 1' would comprise an audio source, a power source, electrical circuitry, a housing, and components 31 similar to exemplary device 1 previously described above, but would not -31

I

PWBI001/MRK I 1 necessarily comprise an audio transducer. Rather, in the further alternative O 2 embodiment of the invention depicted in FIG. 18, one or more flat panel audio C 3 transducers 12 would be imbedded in the body 50 beneath the top surface 51 of 4 the body 50 of bodyboard 70. In such an embodiment, imbedding one or more flat panel audio transducers 12 in the body 50 would acoustically couple each 6 imbedded flat panel audio transducer 12 to the body 50 and to the top surface 51 00O 7 (and to the bottom surface 51') of bodyboard 70. In such an embodiment, the S 8 transducers 12 would be connected, for example, by wires 200, to the power 9 source, audio source, and electrical circuitry of device Acoustic coupling of C 10 the imbedded audio transducers 12 to the body 50 and the top surface 51 (and to S11 the bottom surface 51') result in the bodyboard 70 comprising a sound board or 12 speaker.

13 Other features of the invention are implicit in the above-provided 14 description and/or are depicted and/or are implicit in the accompanying Figures.

16 FACSIMILE REPRODUCTION OF COPYRIGHT MATERIAL 17 A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which 18 is subject to copyright protection by the copyright owner, Whobody, Inc., its 19 successors and assigns. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it 21 appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise 22 reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

23 24 ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS Although this invention has been described in certain specific 26 embodiments, many additional modifications and variations would be apparent to 27 those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that this invention may 28 be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. Moreover, to those skilled 29 in the various arts, the invention itself herein will suggest solutions to other tasks and adaptations for other applications. Thus, the embodiments of the invention 31 described herein should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not -32- PWBI0001/MRK 0 S I restrictive, the scope of the invention to be determined by the appended claims o 2 and their equivalents rather than the foregoing description.

3 4 6 00 S 7 8 9 CN 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 31 33-

Claims (2)

1. 2. The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the acoustic coupling of the housing 16 with the top surface of the body of material comprises an acoustic coupling 17 between the housing and a component of the apparatus selected from the group 18 consisting of: 19 the top surface of the body of material, a bottom surface of the body of material, 21 a recess in the body of material, 22 a cradle recessed in the body of material, 23 a cradle mounted to the top surface of the body of material, 24 a form mounted on the top surface of the body of material, and a cradle mounted in a recess provided in the form mounted on the top 26 surface of the body of material. 27 28 3. The apparatus of Claim 1: 29 wherein the housing further comprises a top, an exterior shaft, and a perimeter around the top of the housing;
2. 34- PWB1000I1/MRK I wherein the body of material further comprises a recess, wherein the O 2 recess comprises a floor and an interior wall; and 3 wherein at least a portion of the housing is disposed within the recess of 4 the body of material. 6 4. The apparatus of Claim 3, the apparatus further comprising: 00 (3O 7 a member that surrounds the perimeter around the top of the housing and (N C 8 that acoustically couples the housing to the top surface of the body of material. 9 (N 10 5. The apparatus of Claim 3, wherein the exterior shaft of the housing 1 comprises threading, wherein the interior wall of the recess in the body 12 comprises threading, and wherein the housing is disposed within the recess of 13 the body of material by screwing the threading of the exterior shaft of the housing 14 into the threading of the interior wall of the recess in the body. 16 6. The apparatus of Claim 3, the apparatus further comprising: 17 a cradle comprising an interior cradle recess and a cradle exterior, 18 wherein the cradle exterior is fastened within the recess, wherein the housing 19 disposed within the recess of the body of material comprises fastening the housing within the cradle recess. 21 22 7. The apparatus of Claim 6, wherein fastening the housing within the cradle 23 recess disposes an exterior wall of the housing in contact with the interior wall of 24 the cradle recess for acoustic coupling of the housing to the cradle. 26 8. The apparatus of Claim 1, said apparatus further comprising: 27 an audio source that is adapted for communication with the flat panel 28 audio transducer. 29 9. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein the audio source is connected to the 31 first power source and wherein the housing encloses the audio source. PWBI0001/MRK C~1 O o 2 10. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein the audio source is external to the 0 3 housing. 4 11. An apparatus for playing audio signals, the apparatus comprising: 6 a body of material comprising a top surface, the body comprising material 00 7 adapted for conducting audio waves; (Ni (N 8 an audio transducer, the audio transducer adapted for receiving 9 communications from at least a first audio source; (N 10 electrical circuitry coupled to the audio transducer; 11 an at least a first power source coupled to the audio transducer and the 12 electrical circuitry; and 13 a housing, the housing enclosing the audio transducer, a portion of the 14 housing disposed within a component of the apparatus, the component of the apparatus selected from the group consisting of: 16 a recess in the body of material, 17 a cradle recessed in the body of material, 18 a cradle mounted to the top surface of the body of material, 19 a recess provided in a form mounted on the top surface of the body of material, and 21 a cradle mounted in the recess provided in the form mounted on 22 the top surface of the body of material. 23 24 12. The apparatus of Claim 11, wherein the first audio source comprises an audio device selected from the group consisting of: a radio transceiver, a digital 26 music transceiver, a digital music device adapted for generating streaming digital 27 audio, an internal FRS radio receiver, an internal digital radio receiver, a wireless 28 data link, and a two-way communication device. 29 13. The apparatus of Claim 11, wherein the audio transducer is a flat panel 31 audio transducer. -36- PWBI001/MRK O 2 14. The apparatus of Claim 11, the apparatus further comprising: 0 3 a second audio source, the second audio source comprising a two-way 4 communication device; a detecting device for detecting a receiving by the second audio source of 6 audio signals; 00 7 a pausing device for pausing generation by the audio transducer of audio (N Ni 8 signals received from the first audio source; and 9 a switching device for feeding audio signals from the second audio source Ni 10 to the audio transducer. 11 12 15. The apparatus of Claim 11, the apparatus further comprising: 13 at least a first sensor selected from a group consisting of: 14 a submersion sensor, a global positioning sensor, 16 an acceleration sensor, 17 a temperature sensor, 18 a compass sensor, 19 a gyroscopic sensor, an ambient noise sensor, and 21 a water depth sensor. 22 23 16. The apparatus of Claim 11, wherein the first audio source is disposed in a 24 location selected from the group consisting of: a location external to the housing, and a location enclosed within the housing. 26 27 17. An apparatus for playing audio signals, the apparatus comprising: 28 a flat panel audio interface panel; 29 a flat panel audio transducer acoustically coupled to the flat panel audio interface panel; -37 S. PWBI0001/MRK 1 a housing comprising a top panel, the housing enclosing the flat panel O 2 audio transducer and the flat panel audio interface panel, the flat panel audio 3 interface panel acoustically coupled to the top panel of the housing, the flat panel 4 audio transducer acoustically coupled to the housing, the housing adapted for docking with a body of material, the flat panel audio transducer adapted for 6 receiving communications from an audio source; 00 oO 7 electrical circuitry coupled to the distributed mode audio transducer; and (N N 8 a power source coupled to the distributed mode audio transducer and the 9 electrical circuitry. N 11 18. The apparatus of Claim 17, the apparatus further comprising: 12 a memory storage device for storing a representation of audio signals. 13 14 19. The apparatus of Claim 18, the apparatus further comprising: a computer device programmed for translating the representation of audio 16 signals into a digital representation of audio signals; 17 the computer device further programmed for relaying the digital 18 representation of audio signals to the flat panel audio transducer; and 19 the flat panel audio transducer adapted for transforming the digital representation of audio signals into analog audio signals and further adapted for 21 conveying the analog audio signals to the flat panel audio interface panel. 22 23 20. The apparatus of Claim 17, the apparatus further comprising: 24 the audio source enclosed within the housing. 26 21. An apparatus for playing audio signals, the apparatus comprising: 27 a body of material comprising a top surface, the body comprising material 28 adapted for conducting audio waves; 29 an audio source recessed in the body of material; a plurality of flat panel audio transducers, each flat panel audio transducer 31 of the plurality of flat panel audio transducers adapted for receiving -38- PWBI0001/MRK I communications from the audio source, each flat panel audio transducer of the o 2 plurality of flat panel audio transducers acoustically coupled to the top surface of S 3 the body of material; 4 electrical circuitry coupled to each flat panel audio transducer of the 5 plurality of flat panel audio transducers; In 6 a power source coupled to each flat panel audio transducer of the plurality 00oO 7 of flat panel audio transducers and to the electrical circuitry. S 8 9 22. The apparatus of Claim 21, wherein an at least a first flat panel audio 10 transducer of the plurality of flat panel audio transducers is disposed within the 11 body of material beneath the top surface of the body of material and is 12 acoustically coupled to the top surface of the body of material from underneath 13 the top surface. 14 23. The apparatus of Claim 21, wherein an at least a first flat panel audio 16 transducer of the plurality of flat panel audio transducers is disposed above the 17 top surface of the body of material, and is acoustically coupled to the top surface 18 of the body of material from above the top surface. 19 24. An apparatus for playing audio signals, the apparatus comprising: 21 a body of material comprising a top surface, the body comprising material 22 adapted for conducting audio waves; 23 an audio source recessed in the body of material; 24 an at least a first flat panel audio transducer, the at least a first flat panel audio transducer adapted for receiving communications from the audio source, 26 the at least a first flat panel audio transducer acoustically coupled to the top 27 surface and to the body of material; 28 electrical circuitry coupled to the at least a first flat panel audio transducer; 29 a power source coupled to the at least a first flat panel audio transducers and to the electrical circuitry. 31 -39- 0 4 PWBI0001/MRK C 1 25. The apparatus of Claim 24, wherein the at least a first flat panel audio o 2 transducer is disposed within the body of material beneath the top surface of the t' 3 body of material and is acoustically coupled to the top surface of the body of 4 material from underneath the top surface. 6 26. The apparatus of Claim 24, wherein the at least a first flat panel audio 00 7 transducer is disposed above the top surface of the body of material, and is (N C 8 acoustically coupled to the top surface of the body of material from above the top r^- 0 9 surface. 0 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 31