JP2008506510A - Figurine using external computing power using wireless communication - Google Patents

Abstract

  The present invention relates to a figurine that uses the computing power of an external computer using wireless communication. This figurine captures visual or audible input and can be transferred wirelessly to an external computer, either directly or via a network. The external computer processes the input to produce an output and forwards the output to the figurine. As a result, the output can be presented to the child as if the figurine directly processed to generate the output.

Description

  The present invention relates to figurines such as stuffed animals, teddy bears, dolls, toy robots, action figures, and the like, and more particularly to figurines containing electronic circuits.

  In this disclosure, the term “figurine” means dolls, teddy bears, stuffed animals, toy robots, toy statues, action figures, and the like. The figurine is generally used by children to kill time and develop imaginative thinking. Recently, advanced computerized figurines have been developed. For example, these advanced figurines can contain electronic circuitry that enables interaction between the figurine and the child.

  In general, the present invention relates to a system including a figurine that utilizes the computing power of an external computer using wireless communication. Specifically, an application that requires powerful processing power can actually be executed by a figurine in appearance while executing powerful processing by an external computer. The figurine captures the input and can wirelessly transfer the input to an external computer, which processes the input. The external computer returns the output to the figurine, and the output is presented to the child from the figurine.

  Speech recognition applications, speech interpretation applications, image processing applications, speech recognition applications, and language translation applications are examples of applications that generally require powerful processing power and large amounts of memory. The present invention utilizes the computing power of an external computer using wireless communication in order to smoothly present the results of speech recognition applications, speech interpretation applications, image processing applications, speech recognition applications, and language translation applications through figurines. A figurine is assumed. By executing powerful processing outside the figurine, the electronic circuitry inside the figurine can be greatly simplified. Specifically, the need for powerful processing power and large amounts of memory inside the figurine can be avoided. Thus, the need to protect powerful processors and memory from misuse by children handling figurines can also be avoided. It is also possible to extend the battery life inside the figurine by using the techniques described herein.

  In one embodiment, the present invention provides a system having a figurine that captures input from a user and communicates the input wirelessly. The input may be, for example, audio data such as image data or speech data. The system also includes a computer that receives speech data from the figurine, generates a response to the speech data, and communicates the response wirelessly to the figurine. As a result, the response is output from the small image to the user.

  In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system having a figurine that captures speech data from a user and communicates the speech data wirelessly. The system also includes a computer that receives speech data from the figurine, generates a translation result of the speech data, and wirelessly communicates the translation result to the figurine. The translation result is output to the user from the figurine.

  In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system that includes a figurine that captures image data from a user and communicates the image data wirelessly, where the image data comprises one or more words or Contains idioms. The system also includes a computer that receives the image data from the figurine, generates a translation result of the word or phrase, and communicates the translation result to the figurine wirelessly. The translation result is output to the user from the figurine.

  In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system having a figurine that captures image data from a user and communicates the image data wirelessly, where the image data comprises one or more words or Contains idioms. The system also includes a computer that receives the image data from the figurine, generates audio data corresponding to the word or phrase, and transmits the audio data wirelessly to the figurine. Audio data is output to the user from the figurine.

  In another embodiment, the present invention provides a data capture device and a wireless transceiver for wirelessly transferring data captured by the data capture device and receiving an output associated with the data captured by the data capture device. Provide a figurine of an interactive toy with For example, the data capture device may be an image capture device for capturing image data, such as a camera deployed in either or both of the toy figurine eyes (or elsewhere).

  In another embodiment, the method comprises capturing speech data from a user in a figurine and wirelessly communicating the speech data to an external computer. The method also includes receiving a response to the speech data from an external computer and outputting the response from the figurine to the user.

  In another embodiment, the method comprises capturing speech data from a user in a figurine and wirelessly communicating the speech data to an external computer. The method also includes receiving speech data translation results from an external computer and outputting the translation results from the figurine to the user.

  In another embodiment, the method comprises capturing image data with a figurine and wirelessly communicating the image data to an external computer. The image data includes one or more words or idioms. The method also includes receiving a translation result of a word or phrase from an external computer and outputting the translation result from the figurine.

  In another embodiment, the method comprises capturing image data with a figurine and wirelessly communicating the image data to an external computer. The image data includes one or more words or idioms. The method also includes receiving audio data corresponding to the word or phrase from an external computer and outputting the audio data from the figurine.

  In another embodiment, the system includes a figurine that captures the input and communicates the input wirelessly. The system also includes a computer that receives input from the figurine, generates an output based on the input, and wirelessly communicates the output to the figurine. The output is presented to the user from the figurine.

  In another embodiment, the system includes a figurine communicatively coupled to a computer that is communicatively coupled to a server via a network. The figurine provides input to the computer and receives output from the computer. The computer can receive software updates from the server so that the figurine functionality can be changed or expanded by computer software upgrades. Of course, the upgrade can also be read onto a computer via a conventional disk or other storage medium, in which case communication with the server would not be necessary.

  In another embodiment, the system comprises a figurine communicatively coupled to a computer. In addition, the system also includes one or more system-compatible objects with which the figurine can communicate using the power of the computer. The counterpart object can include a sign that the figurine can identify, which can ensure that software on the computer can provide useful interaction between the figurine and the object.

  In another embodiment, the system comprises a figurine, a computer, and a parent unit. The parent unit may comprise a software module on the computer or a separate hardware device. In either case, the parent unit allows the parent to control the figurine function as a parent by interacting with a software module on the computer that controls the figurine operation and interactive functions. It is possible. The parent unit can also function as an infant monitor, such as a smart infant monitor that can generate an alarm if an infant near the figurine stops breathing or has other detectable problems It is.

  The present invention relates to a system including a figurine that uses the computing power of an external computer using wireless communication. Specifically, certain applications that require powerful processing power can actually be executed by the figurine, while the powerful processing is actually performed in another computer outside the figurine. is there. The figurine captures audio data, video data, or both, and the captured data can be transferred directly to an external computer or wirelessly over a network. Audio data includes (but is not limited to) speech data, audio data, and music data. The external computer receives the data as input, processes the data, generates an output based on the input data, and forwards the output to the figurine. As a result, the output can be presented to the child as if the figurine directly processed to generate the output.

  Speech recognition applications, speech recognition applications, speech interpretation applications, and language translation applications are examples of applications that may require powerful processing power and large amounts of memory. The present invention assumes a figurine that uses the computing power of an external computer using wireless communication in order to smoothly present the results of a speech recognition application, speech recognition application, speech interpretation application, and language translation application through the figurine. is doing.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The system 10 generally includes a figurine 12 such as a doll, teddy bear, stuffed animal, toy robot, toy statue, action figure, or the like. The system 10 also includes an external computer 14 such as a personal computer (PC), Macintosh®, workstation, laptop, notebook, palm computer, or any other computer outside the figurine 12. It is out. The figurine 12 and the external computer 14 communicate directly or indirectly via one or more wireless communication links 16. In some cases, the external computer 14 is networkable to one or more wireless hubs or other devices that facilitate wireless communication.

  The figurine 12 uses the computing power of the external computer 14 to smoothly execute processor intensive and / or memory intensive applications. The child can interact with the figurine 12. As a result, figurine 12 can facilitate learning and provide instructions and guidance to the child. In order to execute these applications smoothly, the figurine 12 uses the computing power of the external computer 14, so that the computing power and memory required inside the figurine 12 can be greatly reduced. . As a result, the need to protect the processor and / or memory from misuse by children handling figurines 12 can also be reduced. It is also possible to reduce the power used by the figurine 12 and extend the battery life inside the figurine 12.

  In one example, figurine 12 can present a speech recognition application (eg, a program that teaches a child about the meaning of one or more words or phrases) to the child. In this case, the child can talk to the figurine 12, which captures the speech and wirelessly communicates the captured speech to the external computer 14. The external computer 14 analyzes the speech and generates one or more meanings that are returned to the figurine 12. As a result, the figurine 12 can output meaning to the child in any number of ways.

  As an example, the child can utter the word “travel” to the figurine 12, which captures this utterance and wirelessly communicates the captured speech to the external computer 14. The external computer 14 analyzes the captured speech and generates one or more definitions, which are returned to the figurine 12. The figurine 12 can output the definition by responding, for example, “The word“ travel ”means going on a trip”.

  In another example, figurine 12 can have the ability to have an intelligent conversation with a child by utilizing the computing power of an external computer. In this case, the child can talk to the figurine 12, which captures the speech and wirelessly communicates the captured speech to the external computer 14. The external computer 14 analyzes the speech and generates one or more responses that are returned to the figurine 12. As a result, the figurine 12 can output a response to the child. Therefore, when a child asks a question to the figurine 12, the figurine 12 can respond with an intelligent answer. Software running on the external computer 14 may be adaptable to questions asked by children over time and may be upgradeable. An upgrade to software on the external computer 14 can, for example, make the figurine 12 appear to be intelligently growing with the child.

  As an example, a child can say “I love you” to figurine 12, which captures the utterance and sends the captured speech to external computer 14 wirelessly. introduce. The external computer 14 analyzes the child's message and generates one or more responses that are sent back to the figurine 12. The figurine 12 can output a response by responding, for example, “I love you too”. Alternatively, the child can ask the figurine 12 the question "What is a triangle?" And the figurine can respond "Triangle is a shape with three sides" It is.

  In another example, figurine 12 can support a child's reading. For example, one or more image capture devices, such as a digital camera, can be placed inside the figurine 12 (eg, inside one or both eyes 18 of the figurine 12). The child can present the page of the book to the figurine 12 by guiding the eyes 18 of the figurine 12 toward the page and pressing a button (not shown). In this case, the captured image of the page can be transmitted to the external computer 14 wirelessly. The external computer 14 analyzes the page and identifies the words printed on the page. The external computer 14 then returns to the figurine so that the figurine 12 can output the words listed on the page. In this sense, the figurine 12 can appear as if it is being read out to the child. In this case, by incorporating a display (not shown) in the figurine 12, it is possible to present the captured word read by the figurine 12 to the child. Accordingly, the figurine 12 can support the child's learning process by supporting reading education for the child.

  In another example, figurine 12 can smoothly perform translation of words spoken by children. For example, the child can talk to the figurine 12, which captures the speech and wirelessly communicates the captured speech to the external computer 14. The external computer 14 analyzes the speech and identifies the translation results of words or idioms spoken by the child. The external computer 14 then returns to the figurine so that the figurine 12 can output the translation result to the child. In this example, the figurine 12 functions as an interpreter.

  For example, the child can utter the word “thank you” to the figurine 12, which captures this utterance and wirelessly communicates the captured utterance to an external computer. The external computer 14 analyzes the utterance and identifies the translation result of the idiom. The external computer 14 then returns the translation results to the figurine, and the figurine 12 translates, for example, by responding, “Spanish 'Gracias' means“ Thank you ””. Can be output.

  In another example, figurine 12 can smoothly perform the translation of the words described. As an example, one or more image capture devices, such as a digital camera, can be placed inside the eye 18 of the figurine 12. The child can present the word or phrase to the figurine 12 by guiding the eye 18 of the figurine 12 toward the word or phrase. The child can capture the word or phrase that the figurine is “browsing” by pressing a button (not shown) on the figurine 12. In this case, the captured image of the word or phrase can be transmitted to the external computer 14 wirelessly. The external computer 14 analyzes the word or phrase and identifies the translation result of the word or phrase. The external computer 14 then returns to the figurine, so that the figurine 12 can output the translation result. In this case, it is also possible to present the captured words being translated to the child by incorporating a display (not shown) in the figurine 12. For example, the display can be placed anywhere on the figurine, but the child can view the word when guiding the eye 18 of the figurine 12 toward the page to be read away from the child. It is preferable to arrange it on the back of the figurine so that it is possible.

  In a further example, the figurine 12 uses the computing power of the external computer 14 to perform image processing that is not related to words and idioms. One or more image capture devices, such as a digital camera, can be placed inside the eye 18 of the figurine 12 and can capture image data processed by the external computer 14. Image processing can include recognition of faces, objects, colors, numbers, places, activities, and the like. For example, when the external computer 14 is running facial recognition software, the figurine 12 can appear as if it recognizes one or more persons that interact with the figurine 12. The figurine 12 can use the recognition result when exchanging the recognition result by, for example, calling the child by name. When the external computer 14 is running object recognition software, the figurine 12 can appear as if it recognizes the object and the attributes of the object such as shape, type and quantity. In an exemplary application, figurine 12 can teach a child to recognize shape, count objects, become familiar with color, and perform similar content.

  In yet another embodiment, the figurine 12 performs speech recognition to identify the speaker by using the computing power of the external computer 14. The figurine 12 can use the voice recognition result when exchanging the voice recognition result, for example, by calling the child by name. When the external computer 14 is running voice recognition software, the figurine 12 can appear as if it recognizes the speaker. Typically, a speech recognition application will be used with a speech recognition application.

  A voice recognition application refers to an application that can identify a person who is speaking and can only allow the exchange of programmed figurines with the person associated with the recognized voice. The speech recognition application means an application that can be generally used in any voice that recognizes spoken content. In some cases, the present invention can use both speech and voice applications together to determine what is spoken and who is speaking. This improves the interaction with the figurine 12 so that the figurine 12 can respond only to children that are programmed to respond. With voice recognition, the child can say "Sing a song for me" or "Tell me a story", and the figurine selects a song or story from the library according to the instructions, It is possible to respond to the recognized voice. However, if the requested voice is not recognized, the response from the figurine to the others can be limited or prohibited.

  The interaction between the user and the figurine 12 can be active and passive. In other words, the external computer 14 can cause the figurine 12 to take an action that is not of a type that responds to an action from the user. For example, the figurine 12 functions as an alarm clock and can notify the child that it is time to wake up. The figurine 12 can also actively prompt the user for the promise of the day, the birthdays of friends and relatives, and the like. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a first output of a type that responds to an input to the figurine, and for example, to actively output a second output such as an alarm or a reminder from the figurine 12 to the user It is also possible to program the computer 12.

  FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of system 10 including figurine 12 and external computer 14. Also in this case, the figurine 12 uses wireless communication in order to use the processing power of the external computer 14. As a result, a complicated application can be executed by the computer 14 and presented to the user from the figurine 12.

  The figurine 12 includes one or more input devices 22 to capture input from a user such as, for example, a child. The figurine 12 also includes one or more output devices 23 to present output to the user. The input device 22 can include, for example, an acoustic detection transducer such as a microphone, or an image capture device such as a digital camera. By placing a button or other actuator on the figurine 12, the microphone can be turned on or the digital camera can take a picture. The output device 23 can have a sound generating transducer such as a speaker, or perhaps a display screen.

  The sound or image detected by the input device 22 can be locally processed by a local central processing unit (CPU) 24 in order to smoothly transmit data to the external computer 14. For example, the local CPU 24 can package the captured input for transmission to the external computer 14. The local CPU 24 can also transmit data representing sound or an image detected by the input device 22 by controlling the transceiver 26. For example, the local CPU 24 may include a relatively simple controller implemented in an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). When the image is captured by the small image 12, the local CPU 24 can simplify wireless transfer of the image file by compressing the image file. In either case, the transceiver 26 transfers the data collected by the figurine 12 so that the data can be processed outside the figurine 12.

  Wireless communication between the transmitter / receiver 26 of the figurine 12 and the transmitter / receiver 27 of the external computer 14 may be based on any of various wireless communication protocols. Examples include (but are not limited to) wireless network standards such as the IEEE 802.11 standard, the Bluetooth (R) Special Interest Group standard, and the like. For example, the IEEE 802.11 standard is for the original 802.11 standard with a data transfer rate of 1-2 megabits per second (Mbps) in the 2.4 to 2.483 gigahertz (GHz) frequency band, and for 1.0 MBPS transmission. IEEE 802.11b standard using BPSK (Binary Phase Shift Keying) and QPSK (Quadrature Phase Shift Keying) for 2.0, 5.5 Mbps and 11.0 Mbps transmission , Often referred to as 802.11 Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), OFDM (Orthogona) in the 2.4 GHz frequency band providing data transmission at rates up to 54 Mbps 1 IEEE 802.11g standard using Frequency Division Multiplexing, and IEEE 802.11a standard using OFDM in the 5 GHz frequency band that provides data transmission at a rate of up to 54 Mbps (however, these include Not limited). These and other wireless networks have already been developed. Further extensions to the IEEE 802.11 standard, as well as other wireless standards will likely emerge in the future. The present invention is not limited to the type of wireless communication technique used, and is a cellular telephone or direct interactive pager, or any other wireless protocol known or that will be developed in the future. It could also be implemented by a wireless protocol similar to that used in

  The transceiver 27 of the external computer 14 receives data transmitted from the transceiver 26 of the figurine 12. The remote CPU 28 performs a wide range of processing on data and generates output. For example, the remote CPU 28 may include a general purpose microprocessor that executes software to generate output. As a result, the output is returned to the small image 12. This output can be presented to the user from the output device 23 of the figurine 12.

  By executing powerful processing in the external computer 14, the local electronic circuit of the figurine 12 can be greatly simplified. Specifically, the need for powerful processing power and a large amount of memory inside the figurine 12 can be avoided. As a result, the need to protect powerful processors and memory from misuse by children handling figurines can also be avoided. It is also possible to extend battery power in the figurine 12 by executing processing tasks externally within the computer 14. Furthermore, software upgrades can be easily implemented for execution by the remote CPU 28 without requiring upgrades of the figurine 12 components.

  The processing tasks performed within the remote CPU 28 of the external computer 14 will generally depend on the given application being presented to the user from the figurine 12. In one example, figurine 12 can present to a child a speech recognition application (eg, a program that teaches the child the meaning of one or more words or phrases). In this case, the child can talk to the figurine 12 and the input device 22 can capture the speech. The local CPU 24 packages the speech and transmits the captured speech wirelessly from the transceiver 26 to the external computer 14. The remote CPU 28 analyzes the speech and generates one or more meanings, which are returned from the transceiver 27 to the figurine 12. As a result, the meaning can be output from the output device 23 of the figurine image 12 to the child.

  In another example, the figurine 12 can have the ability to have an intelligent conversation with the child by utilizing the remote CPU 28 of the external computer 14. In this case, the child can talk to the figurine 12 and the input device 22 can capture the speech. The local CPU 24 packages the speech and transmits the captured speech from the transceiver 26 to the external computer 14 wirelessly. The remote CPU 28 analyzes the speech and generates one or more responses, which are returned from the transceiver 27 to the figurine 12. As a result, the response can be output from the output device 23 of the figurine image 12 to the child. Therefore, when the child asks the figurine 12, the figurine 12 can respond with an intelligent answer.

  In another example, figurine 12 can support a child's reading. In this case, an input device 22 in the form of an image capture device can capture a page image. The local CPU 24 packages an image and transmits the captured image from the transceiver 26 to the external computer 14 wirelessly. The local CPU can also compress the image before transmission. When the external computer 14 receives the captured image, the remote CPU 28 analyzes the image and generates one or more meanings, which are returned from the transceiver 27 to the figurine 12. For example, the remote CPU 28 can perform character recognition on the image to identify the character, and then the meaning of the identified character is stored in memory (one that is accessible from the remote CPU 28). It can be deciphered using the dictionary. This meaning can then be output to the child from the output device 23 of the figurine 12. In this sense, the figurine 12 can be seen as if it is being read out to the child. The output device 23 can include a speaker for voice output and possibly a display for presenting the captured words read by the figurine 12 to the child.

  In another example, figurine 12 can smoothly translate words spoken by the child. In this case, the child can talk to the figurine 12 and the input device 22 can capture the speech. The local CPU 24 packages the speech and transmits the captured speech from the transceiver 26 to the external computer 14 wirelessly. The remote CPU 28 analyzes the speech and identifies the translation result of the words or idioms spoken by the child, and these are returned from the transceiver 27 to the figurine 12. As a result, the translation result can be output from the output device 23 of the figurine image 12 to the child. In this example, the figurine 12 functions as an interpreter.

  In a further example, the figurine 12 performs other types of image processing by utilizing the computing power of the external computer 14. One or more image capture devices can capture image data processed by the external computer 14. Image processing can include recognition of faces, objects, colors, numbers, places, activities, and the like. For example, when the external computer 14 is running facial recognition software, the figurine 12 can appear as if it recognizes one or more persons interacting with the figurine 12. The figurine 12 can use the recognition result when exchanging the recognition result by, for example, calling the child by name. When the external computer 14 is running object recognition software, it can appear as if the figurine 12 is recognizing the object and the attributes of the object such as shape, type or quantity. In an exemplary application, figurine 12 can teach a child to recognize shape, count objects, become familiar with color, and do something similar.

  The interaction between the user and the figurine 12 can be active and passive. In other words, the external computer 14 can cause the figurine 12 to take an action that is not of the type in response to the action by the user. For example, the figurine 12 functions as an alarm clock and can notify the child that it is time to wake up. It is also possible to actively prompt the user from the figurine 12 for the promise of the day, the birthday of a friend or relative, and the like. In the case of an elderly person's application, the figurine 12 can prompt the user to take medicine. Any such alarm or reminder can be a standard audio tone, music, or perhaps a familiar audio program or recorded audio, so that the figurine 12 is in a preferred tone when providing reminders. Can talk to. For example, by recording the voice of the parent, the figurine 12 can speak by such recording. By using voice emulation software in the computer 14, the figurine 12 can speak a new word or phrase using voices emulating the parent's voice.

  FIG. 3 is a more detailed block diagram of the system 30 illustrating the application of the present invention to one of the foregoing application examples, specifically the translation of the words described. System 30 can accommodate system 10 (FIGS. 1 and 2). In this case, the image capture device 33 can capture the image of the page. For example, the image capture device 33 may be a digital device arranged inside the eye of the figurine 32 so that when the child guides the eye of the figurine 32 toward the page and presses the actuator, the image of the page is captured. You can have a camera. For example, the actuator can be disposed on the back surface of the figurine 32 so that the actuator can be easily accessed when the eyes of the figurine 32 are guided toward the page. However, the image capture device and the actuator can be deployed at other locations on the figurine 32.

  The local CPU 34 packages this image and transmits the captured image from the transceiver 36 to the external computer 31 wirelessly. The remote CPU 38 analyzes the image and generates a translation result, which is returned from the transceiver 37 to the small image 32. The remote CPU 28 can execute the optical character recognition 39 and the translation 40 specifically by activating the software modules 37 and 39. When the image is translated and the translation result is returned to the figurine 32, the translation result can be output from the output device 35 of the figurine 32.

  It is also possible to launch different optical character recognition modules and translator modules for different languages. For example, the optical character recognition module 39 can recognize English, and the translator module 40 can translate from English to Spanish. However, any other language could be supported. In another embodiment, optical character recognition can be performed locally in the figurine, and translation that is relatively processor intensive can be performed by the external computer 31.

  Other exemplary applications can be supported in a manner similar to that shown in FIG. For example, in the face recognition environment, the image capture device 33 can capture one or more images of the face. The local CPU 34 packages the image and transmits the captured image from the transmitter / reception type 36 to the external computer 31 wirelessly. The remote CPU 38 executes a face recognition software module to identify the face in the image. When the face is identified, the remote CPU 38 can incorporate identification information in the output of the figurine 32, for example, by calling the user by name. By using voice recognition, it is also possible to call the figurine by name.

  Furthermore, the remote CPU 38 can execute a shape recognition software module, a color recognition software module, an object recognition software module, and a quantification software module. By using such a software module, the remote CPU 38 can assist the user to recognize the shape, count the object, become familiar with the color, and execute similar contents. The user recognizes all actions that occur through the figurine 32, but processor-intensive image processing is actually performed remotely by the external computer 31. For example, an object recognition module can be designed so that figurines can teach children how to recognize currency (such as coins) and accurately count change.

  The various modules and components described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination. The present invention is not limited to any particular hardware or software implementation. When implemented as software, the modules can be stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a memory or non-volatile storage medium. Indeed, one advantage of the technique described herein is that the need for large amounts of memory inside the figurine can be avoided. Instead, the memory required to run a very memory intensive application is contained within the external computer. Also, the exemplary applications described above are not mutually exclusive. The external computer 31 can perform any combination of translation, speech and speech recognition, image processing, or other types of software modules, and the present invention eliminates other applications and executes a single application. It is not limited to the system. Conversely, the advantage of the present invention is its versatility. The present invention is adaptable to implement one or more applications as desired by the user.

  FIGS. 4-6 are flow charts according to some embodiments of the present invention that illustrate the application of the present invention to one of the foregoing application examples, specifically the translation of spoken or written messages. Show. In the technique shown in FIG. 4, figurine 12 performs a speech capture (41) and then transmits speech data to external computer 14 (42). The external computer 14 receives the speech data (43), performs speech recognition (44), and identifies the spoken word or phrase. The external computer 14 performs a translation associated with the identified spoken word or phrase (45) and returns the translation result to the figurine 12 (46). The figurine 12 receives the translation result (47) and outputs the translation result to the user. The figurine 12 can drive an output device, such as a display screen, thereby providing the described output. However, the user may think that it is preferable to drive the speaker in the figurine image 12 by the figurine image 12 and thereby provide an audible output such as reading a speech in which the translation result is synthesized. As a result, the external computer 14 is activated to reduce local processing in the figurine 12, and the figurine 12 functions as a translator of spoken words or idioms. Further, as described above, in addition to performing speech recognition, for example, by identifying different persons in response to recognition of different sounds by the computer 14, the figurine 12 responds only to recognized sounds. Alternatively, the computer 14 may perform speech recognition so as to respond in a different manner.

  In the technique shown in FIG. 5, figurine 12 captures an image (51) and then transmits the image to external computer 14 (52). The external computer 14 receives the image (53) and decodes the image (54), for example, by performing optical character recognition. Next, the external computer translates the characters and generates a translation result (55). Next, the external computer returns the translation result to the figurine 12 (56). The figurine 12 receives the translation result and outputs the translation result to the user (58). As a result, while the external computer 14 is activated to reduce local processing in the figurine 12, the figurine 12 functions as a translator of the written word or phrase. The translation results can be output in audio, video, or both.

  In the technique shown in FIG. 6, figurine 12 captures an image containing the described word or phrase (61) and then transmits the image to external computer 14 (62). The external computer 14 receives the image (63) and decodes the image (64), for example, by performing optical character recognition to identify the written word or phrase. The external computer 14 then generates an audio signal as a function of the identified word or phrase (65). Next, the external computer 12 returns an audio signal to the figurine 12 (66). The figurine 12 receives the audio signal (67) and outputs the translation result to the user. As a result, by starting the external computer 14 and reducing local processing in the figurine 12, the figurine (12) can appear as if it is reading a written word or phrase.

  In various embodiments described herein, a figurine is described that utilizes the computational power of an external computer using wireless communications. However, the figurine does not have to be directly coupled to the external computer in order to use the computing resources of the external device. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a system 70 similar to system 10. However, in the system 70, the figurine 72 is in wireless communication with the external computer 74 via the wireless hub 75. Specifically, the wireless hub 75 is in wireless communication with the figurine 72 and is coupled to the external computer 74.

  FIG. 8 shows another system 80 that is similar to the system 10, in which the figurine 82 is in wireless communication to utilize the computing power of the external computer 84. In the case of system 80, figurine 82 is in wireless communication with external computer 84 via wireless hub 85 that is coupled to external computer 84 via network 86. Specifically, the wireless hub 85 is in wireless communication with the figurine 82 and is coupled to the external computer 84 via the network 86. The network 86 may include a small local area network (LAN), a wide area network, or, in some cases, a global network such as the Internet. Communication between the hub 85 and the external computer 84 may be wireless (although this is not essential). What is important is that the wireless capability of the figurine 82 enables communication with the external computer 84, thereby allowing the figurine 82 to use the processing capability of the external computer 84.

  If the figurine is configured to communicate with a global network, such as the Internet, as shown in FIG. 8 or 11, the figurine may be in the network and other stations coupled to the network or It can function as an input / output device for communication with the server. In a typical application, figurine 82 reports information obtained from one or more network servers (not shown). For example, a child may ask the figurine 82 "What is the weather forecast for today?" This request is relayed to an external computer, and the external computer accesses a server capable of providing a local forecast via the network 86. When obtaining a local forecast, the external computer 84 supplies this information to the figurine 82, who will answer the child's question.

  The present invention supports wireless communication in other configurations as well. The figurine does not have to be directly coupled to an external computer in order to utilize the computing resources of the external device. The figurine 82 can communicate wirelessly with an intermediate device such as another figurine, a wireless access point, or a computer not functioning as an external computer 84.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a system 90 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. The system 90 includes a figurine 92 and an external computer 94 that are in direct or indirect communication via one or more wireless communication links. Furthermore, the system 90 includes an object 95 (which is implemented as a book in FIG. 9) corresponding to the system. Corresponding object 95 may be any type of object, but in a typical implementation, corresponding object 95 is an accessory for figurine 92.

  The corresponding object 95 includes a radio discriminator so that the detector in the figurine 92 can detect the presence of the corresponding object 95. An example of such a wireless identifier is an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag 96. The RFID tag 96 is concealed within the corresponding object 95 and may not be easily observable by the user. The RFID tag reader 98 in the figurine 92 detects and reads the RFID tag 96. It is also possible to use bar codes or other signs, in which case the reader 98 will smoothly perform the reading of those signs.

  The RFID tag 96 is a wireless electronic device that communicates with the RFID tag reader 98. The RFID tag 96 can include an integrated circuit (not shown) and a coil (not shown). The coil can function as a power source, as a receiving antenna, and as a transmitting antenna. The coil can save power when interrogated by coupling to a capacitor to drive the integrated circuit. The integrated circuit can include wireless communication components and memory. The RFID tag reader 98 can include an antenna and a transceiver.

  The RFID tag reader 98 performs an “inquiry” on the RFID tag 96 by emitting an electromagnetic (ie, high frequency) signal toward the RFID tag 96. The RFID tag 96 can include an independent power source (although this is not essential). In the exemplary embodiment, RFID tag 96 obtains power from an interrogation signal from RFID tag reader 98. When powered on, the RFID tag 96 can perform certain operations, which can include transmitting data stored in the RFID tag 96 memory to the RFID tag reader 98. It is. The transmitted data can include identification information of the corresponding object 95. As a result, the manufacturer of the figurine 92 can provide relatively good control over the object used to interact with the figurine, and so that the child is not disappointed, for example, It is useful to prevent the figurine 92 from being used for books or objects that are not compatible with this system. When the RFID tag reader 98 identifies the RFID tag 96, the external computer 94 will recognize the corresponding object 95 in the vicinity of the standing image 92. The external computer 94 can communicate with the user relatively efficiently by using the identification information of the corresponding object 95. For example, the exemplary corresponding object 95 in FIG. 9 is a book. When the identification information of the book is known, the external computer 94 can generate an output suitable for the book. For example, figurine 92 can guide the child's attention to the illustration shown in the book and explain how the illustration relates to the story. The figurine 92 can also describe how the story relates to other books, such as other books dealing with the same character, or figurine 92 Can also explain background information about the story or its author.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a system 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention. System 100 includes figurine 102 and external computer 104, which communicate directly or indirectly via one or more wireless communication links. Furthermore, the system 100 includes a parent unit 106. Parent unit 106 may have any device including, but not limited to, a television, a computer, a telephone, a speaker, a video monitor, and the like. The parent unit 106 can communicate with the external computer 104 by any method such as electrical connection, optical link, or high frequency.

  System 100 is configured to function as a child monitoring system. The parent can place the figurine 102 in the vicinity of the child so that the figurine 102 can capture video and / or audio information about the child. The figurine 102 transmits the captured information to the external computer 104. Then, this information is transmitted from the external computer 104 to the parent unit 106. In this example, the parent can also contact the child in real time through the figurine 102, for example, by speaking to the microphone of the parent unit 106. The parent unit 106 may be a separate unit, or may be implemented as a software module running directly on the external computer 104.

  In some applications, the external computer 104 simply relays the captured information to the parent unit 106. For example, captured audio and video data indicating the location, condition, and activity of a child can be relayed to the parent unit 106. In another application, the external computer 104 can also provide useful information to the parent unit 106 by processing the captured audio and video data. For example, the external computer 104 processes the audio data captured via the figurine 102 to determine if the child is crying, sleeping, or breathing abnormally, and similar content Is possible. The external computer 104 can also process the video data captured via the figurine 102 to determine whether the child is awake, wakes up or similar.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a system 110 according to another embodiment of the present invention. System 110 is a server / client system in which server 112 provides one or more functions to one or more client image / computer systems 114, 116. The server 112 manages a database 113 that stores software capable of providing one or more functions for the figurine. Client figurine / computer systems 114, 116 download one or more functions from server 112 via network 118. Network 118 may comprise any network, including any global network such as the Internet.

  Examples of functions include (but are not limited to) the functions described herein. The owner of the client figurine / computer system 114, for example, wants his figurine 122 to be useful in teaching his child about numbers, letters, basic shapes, and basic colors. May have. In addition, your child's figurine 122 may need to have the ability to read a story appropriate for a 4-year-old child. For this reason, the owner of the client figurine / computer system 114 downloads software having such a function from the server 112 via the network 118. This software is stored locally on the external computer 120. In contrast, the owner of the client figurine / computer system 116 is that his child figurine 124 is useful for reading and teaching his child's English and Spanish speaking and writing skills. In some cases, it may be desirable to have the ability to play games suitable for children. Thus, the owner of the client figurine / computer system 116 downloads software with such functionality from the server 112 via the network 118.

  System 110 allows each parent to customize his child's figurine for the child's age, needs, and desired content. Parents have access to more advanced features as their children grow up. Further, when a new function is developed and added to the database 113, the parent can also download the new function. As a result, the figurine appears to “grow” with the child and can perform new or further advanced functions. New and further advanced functions can be performed within the external computer 120, thus avoiding the need to upgrade the figurine 122, which is emotionally attached to the figurine 122. It may be important for a child.

  Although the accompanying drawings may show a single figurine having a single external computer, the present invention encompasses embodiments in which a single external computer interacts with multiple figurines. Yes. For example, a parent with two children can give another figurine to each child, and each figurine can communicate wirelessly with the same or different external computers. Each child will recognize that each figurine is moving independently of each other. It is also possible to give a function suitable for each child separately to each figurine.

  The present invention can provide one or more advantages. Children's toys are very versatile and can have various functions. Also, the functions can be customized for the child and can change as the child grows. Furthermore, the present invention supports an interesting adaptable system that can help children learn about various subjects, making interaction with figurines not just play, but also educational. ing.

It is a conceptual diagram which shows the figurine which carries out radio | wireless communication with a computer. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a figurine that wirelessly communicates with a computer. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a figurine that wirelessly communicates with a computer. Fig. 4 is a flowchart of an embodiment of the present invention showing the application of the present invention to the translation of a spoken or described message. Figure 6 is a flowchart of an embodiment of the present invention showing the application of the present invention to the translation of a spoken or written message. Fig. 4 is a flowchart of an embodiment of the present invention showing the application of the present invention to the translation of a spoken or described message. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the figurine which carries out radio | wireless communication with a computer via a wireless hub. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the figurine which carries out wireless communication with the computer through a network. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the figurine image which carries out radio | wireless communication with a computer and a corresponding | compatible object. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the figurine which carries out radio | wireless communication with a computer by a parent unit. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a system in which a server communicates with a client that wirelessly communicates with a figurine.

Claims (29)

A figurine that captures the input and communicates the input wirelessly;
A computer that receives the input from the figurine, generates an output based on the input, and wirelessly communicates the output to the figurine, the output from the figurine to a user; Presented with a computer,
A system comprising: The figurine captures speech data from a user, transmits the speech data wirelessly,
The computer receives the speech data from the figurine, generates an audible response in response to the speech data, and wirelessly transmits the response to the figurine, wherein the audible response is the small image The system of claim 1, wherein the system is output to the user from a standing image.   The system of claim 2, wherein the computer receives additional data over a network, and the computer generates an output based on the additional data. The figurine captures audio data from a user, transmits the audio data wirelessly,
The system of claim 1, wherein the computer receives the audio data from the figurine, identifies a person associated with the audio data, and generates an audible response to the audio data that identifies the person. . The captured input comprises speech data from a user;
The computer receives the speech data from the figurine, generates a translation result of the speech data, transmits the translation result to the figurine wirelessly, and the translation result is obtained from the figurine. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is output to the user. The captured input comprises image data including one or more words or idioms;
The computer receives the image data from the figurine, generates a translation result of the word or idiom, and transmits the translation result to the figurine wirelessly, and the translation result is the figurine The system of claim 1, wherein the system is output to the user. The captured input comprises image data including one or more words or idioms;
The computer receives the image data from the figurine, generates audio data corresponding to the word or phrase, and wirelessly transmits the audio data to the figurine, The system of claim 1, wherein the system is output to the user from a figurine.   The system of claim 1, further comprising a wireless hub, wherein the figurine communicates wirelessly with the computer via the wireless hub.   9. The system of claim 8, further comprising an internet, wherein the figurine communicates wirelessly with the computer over the internet via the wireless hub. The figurine captures image data including an identifiable face or object,
The computer receives the image data from the small image, determines identification information for identifying the identifiable face or object, and wirelessly transmits the identification information to the small image. The described system. The figurine captures additional data from the corresponding object,
The system of claim 1, wherein the computer generates an output based on the additional data.   The system of claim 1, wherein the output is a first output and the computer is programmed to actively output a second output to the user from the figurine. A data capture device for capturing audio or video data;
A wireless transceiver that wirelessly transfers data captured by the data capture device and receives an output associated with the data captured by the data capture device;
An interactive toy figurine with   14. The data capture device of claim 13, wherein the data capture device comprises an image capture device, and the standing image further comprises a display for displaying at least one of the image captured by the image capture device and the output. An interactive toy figurine.   The interactive toy figurine of claim 13, further comprising a speaker that outputs audio data associated with the data captured by the data capture device.   14. The interactive type of claim 13, wherein the data captured by the data capture device includes one or more described words or phrases, and the audio data comprises audible readings of the words or phrases. Toy figurine.   The data captured by the data capture device includes one or more words or phrases in a first language, and the audio data comprises translation results of the words or phrases in a second language. A figurine of an interactive toy described in 1. Capturing data from the user in the figurine,
Wirelessly transmitting the data to an external computer;
Receiving a response to the data from the external computer;
Outputting the response from the figurine to the user;
A method comprising:   The method of claim 18, wherein the data comprises speech data captured from the user, and outputting the response comprises outputting an audible response to the speech data.   Receiving the response comprises receiving a translation result of the speech data, and outputting the response comprises outputting the translation result from the figurine to the user. Item 20. The method according to Item 19.   The data includes image data including one or more words or phrases, and receiving the response includes receiving audio data corresponding to the words or phrases, The method of claim 18, wherein outputting comprises outputting the audio data from the figurine.   The data comprises image data including one or more words or idioms in a first language, and receiving the response comprises receiving translation results of the words or idioms in a second language. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein outputting the response comprises outputting the translation result from the figurine.   23. The method of claim 22, wherein outputting the translation result includes driving a speaker to generate an audible reading of the translation result.   23. The method of claim 22, wherein outputting the translation result includes driving a display to visually generate a translation result. A computer,
A figurine communicatively coupled to the computer, wherein the figurine provides input to the computer, receives output from the computer, and outputs the output to a user, In some cases, the figurine functionality can be extended by an upgrade to the computer,
A system comprising: A figurine that captures the input and communicates the input wirelessly;
A parent unit that receives the input and generates an alarm based on the input;
A system comprising:   27. The system of claim 26, further comprising a computer that receives the input from the figurine, forwards the input to the parent unit, and causes the parent unit to generate the alarm.   27. The system of claim 26, wherein the input comprises breathing information associated with a child, and the parent unit generates the alarm if the child stops breathing. A computer,
A figurine communicatively coupled to the computer;
One or more system-compatible objects, wherein the figurine interacts with the one or more objects by using the computing power of the computer, and the system-compatible objects are software on the computer One or more system-compatible objects that include a sign identifiable by the figurine to ensure that communication between the figurine and the object can be guaranteed;
A system comprising:

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