WO1999048082A1

WO1999048082A1 - Wireless, wearable network computer system

Info

Publication number: WO1999048082A1
Application number: PCT/US1999/006585
Authority: WO
Inventors: Allan H. Stephan; Jeffrey D. Allison; Mark S. Freeman; Domenic S. Giuntoli; David A. Herrin; Brent N. Laporte; Scott A. Macinnes; Michael D. Nelson; Jack H. Profit, Jr.; Keith S. Willows; Chung-Ming Ying; Jennifer E. Zubeck
Original assignee: Inroad, Inc.
Priority date: 1998-03-20
Filing date: 1999-03-19
Publication date: 1999-09-23
Also published as: AU3365099A

Abstract

A computer system (10) having one or more wearable network computers (12) in wireless communication with a remote data source (14). The wearable network computer (12) has a computer assembly (16), a controller (18), a headset (20) and a harness (22). The wearable network computer may possess either display and voice capability or voice-only capability.

Description

WIRELESS, WEARABLE NETWORK COMPUTER SYSTEM

Technical Field This invention generally relates to wearable computers. More particularly, it relates to an improved system having at least one wearable network computer in wireless communication with a remote data source.

Background of the Invention There are countless jobs in manufacturing and other industries where workers simply cannot be tied to a fixed computer terminal ~ even though access to information available through a computer terminal (e.g., company data residing on a network server, company Intranet information, or even information available on the Internet) is necessary to perform the job or would greatly increase worker productivity. Workers who need such information, but who must also move around and work with their hands, have been characterized as "locally mobile" workers.

By way of example, a locally mobile production worker may need access to blueprints, reference manuals, and the like to properly perform a particular job. This worker would have to cease working, leave the workspace to retrieve such information, and then return to the workspace. Even if the worker can return with the necessary information (some information may not be transportable), the demands of the job may still make it impossible for the worker to view the retrieved information and perform manual tasks at the same time.

There are also many inventory-based jobs that require the creation and physical dissemination of tremendous amounts of paperwork. For example, a distribution center worker may decide to send product to a certain customer. The -2-

worker would fill out invoice documents, then send copies of the documents to the shipping department, the accounting department, the production department, and possibly others. Such jobs are fraught with the potential for errors in the initial creation of such information. Worse yet, the created information can be lost in the subsequent dissemination process. Time delay in disseminating such information may pose an additional problem.

Accordingly, there is a need for somehow providing the locally mobile worker with access to information needed to perform the job (or to at least perform the job in a more productive manner) ~ while keeping the worker at the workspace. There is also a need for providing the locally mobile worker with a way to review the information while simultaneously performing the job. There is a separate need for providing the inventory-based worker with a fast, easy, accurate, and reliable alternative to the paperwork nightmare. This invention is directed to providing a solution to such needs. Summary of the Invention

In accordance with this invention, a computer system having one or more wearable network computers in wireless communication with a remote data source is disclosed. A display and voice version and a voice-only version of the wearable network computer are disclosed, with each having a computer assembly, a controller and a headset. These components, and any interconnective cabling, are carried on the body through the use of a harness that allows the user access to all operative buttons and switches on the body-worn components. The computer assembly, controller, headset and harness are designed to provide great versatility in terms of wearability.

The computer assembly, controller and headset have independent application beyond the computer system of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawinfis The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIGURE 1 is a block diagram of a wireless, wearable network computer system formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIGURE 2 is a three-dimensional front view of a wearable network computer, formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, shown worn on the user's body; -3-

FIGURE 3 is a block diagram of a display and voice version of the wearable network computer shown in FIGURE 2;

FIGURE 4 is a block diagram of a voice-only version of the wearable network computer shown in FIGURE 2; FIGURE 5 is a three-dimensional view of a computer assembly formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIGURE 6 is a side elevation view of the computer assembly shown in FIGURE 5;

FIGURE 7 is a bottom plan view of the computer assembly shown in FIGURE 5;

FIGURE 8 is a three-dimensional view of the computer assembly shown in FIGURE 5, illustrating the battery pack of the computer assembly in an exploded and rotated orientation;

FIGURE 9 is a truncated side elevation view of the computer assembly shown in FIGURE 5, with the battery pack removed;

FIGURE 10 is a three-dimensional view of a controller that is formed in accordance with the present invention and is used in a display and voice version of the wearable network computer;

FIGURE 11 is a side elevation view of the controller shown in FIGURE 10; FIGURE 12 is a bottom plan view of the controller shown in FIGURE 10;

FIGURE 13 is a three-dimensional view of an alternate embodiment of the controller of the present invention, this embodiment of the controller being used in a voice-only version of the wearable network computer;

FIGURE 14 is a three-dimensional view of a headset that is formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and is suitable for use in the display and voice version of the wearable network computer;

FIGURE 15 is a three-dimensional view of the headset shown in FIGURE 14, in which the electronics module is disconnected from the headset;

FIGURE 16 is a three-dimensional view of the electronics module shown in FIGURE 15 that illustrates the side of the electronics module not shown in FIGURE 15;

FIGURE 17 is a three-dimensional view of the headset shown in FIGURE 14, which illustrates the electronics module disposed on the opposite side of the user's head, and further illustrates a conventional ear piece mounted to the headset; FIGURES 18, 19 and 20 are three-dimensional views illustrating the manner in which the headset of FIGURE 14 can be reconfigured to be worn on the opposite side of the user's head;

FIGURE 21 is a three-dimensional front view of a harness that is formed in accordance with this invention, illustrating both the harness and the body-worn components of the wearable network computer;

FIGURE 22 is a three-dimensional back view of the harness and body-worn components shown in FIGURE 21; and

FIGURE 23 is a three-dimensional front view of the harness and body-worn components shown in FIGURE 21, which illustrates the controller worn across the chest rather than around the waist.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

Referring to FIGURE 1, the computer system 10 of the present invention includes a wearable network computer 12 in wireless communication with a remote data source 14. While a single wearable network computer 12 is shown in

FIGURE 1, and a single such computer will be described below, it will be appreciated that more than one wearable network computer may be placed in wireless communication with data source 14. Although various transmission media may be employed, radio frequency ("RF") transmission is the preferred form of wireless communication.

The data source 14 may be any conventional computing device that includes data storage and is capable of operating as a server in a wireless network environment. Preferably, data source 14 is the combination of a conventional network server and an associated two-way radio (i.e., radio transceiver). It may also be a portable server (with radio transceiver) acting as the original source of data, or such a portable server acting as a relay unit for a network server. It will be appreciated that wearable network computer 12 may communicate with more than one data source 14 that is incorporated into the same overall network.

As shown in FIGURE 2, wearable network computer 12 includes a computer assembly 16, a controller 18, a headset 20, a harness 22 and assorted cabling interconnecting these body-worn components. Two versions of the wearable network computer of the present invention are disclosed below: a display and voice version and a voice-only version. These are shown in block diagram form in FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4, respectively. Throughout the entire disclosure, the term "network computer" is meant to connote any computer that uses a network server as a primary source of its function. Preferably, it connotes any computer meeting the architecture profile definition established and published in 1997 by The Open Group, which is an independent standards body located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Unlike conventional PCs, network computers have no requirement for a permanent data storage medium. Network computers configured without permanent data storage are less expensive to produce, as well as more secure, rugged and smaller. They also have a lower power requirement, which makes them ideal for wearable computer applications where power is supplied via batteries.

Referring to FIGURES 5, 6 and 8, computer assembly 16 has a processing module 24 and a battery module 26 joined by a flexible connective member 28. The computer assembly also has a removable battery pack 29 that docks with battery module 26. Processing module 24 has a top enclosure 30 and a bottom enclosure 32 that define its outer dimensions. Top enclosure 30 has a raised central surface 34 that provides sleek styling to the processing module and that allows sufficient space for internally disposed electronic components. A power switch 36 (backlit with an LED) and a reset button 38 are disposed near the base of the raised central surface, at a location distal from battery module 26. As shown in FIGURE 7, fasteners 40 extend through the flat bottom surface 42 of bottom enclosure 32 to engage internally disposed receptacles (not shown) in top enclosure 30. In this manner, the top and bottom enclosures of processing module 24 are held firmly together.

Top enclosure 30 and bottom enclosure 32 are formed of a lightweight durable material. Preferably, a metallic material (e.g., magnesium) is utilized, thereby providing inherent EMI shielding and better thermal management.

Though not illustrated, a switch assembly connected to power switch 36 and reset button 38 is disposed within processing module 24. A circuit assembly, radio transceiver, and backup battery are also internally disposed. The backup battery maintains operation of the wearable network computer 12 while battery pack 29 is being changed. In the display and voice version of the wearable network computer of the present invention, provision is made for the processing of graphics (these components also housed within processing module 24). Additionally, an internally disposed EMI gasket, placed between top enclosure 30 and bottom enclosure 32 along their outer surfaces of engaged contact, provides the desired seal between the -6-

two enclosures. Each of the internally disposed electronic components is preferably small, lightweight and has a low power requirement.

Referring to FIGURES 5 and 6, processing module 24 also has a connector bulkhead 44 at the end of the processing module distal from battery module 26, the connector bulkhead being generally perpendicular to the flat bottom surface 42 of bottom enclosure 32. An I/O connector receptacle 46 and an auxiliary connector receptacle 48, each having associated jack posts 50, are mounted on the connector bulkhead 44. These receptacles are connected to the internally disposed circuit assembly. Though not illustrated, these receptacles are configured to receive a corresponding I/O connector plug and a corresponding auxiliary connector plug, respectively. Each plug would of course have associated jack screws.

It will be appreciated that the provision of auxiliary connector receptacle 48 allows a variety of peripheral devices to be selectively coupled to the processing module 24 of computer assembly 16. In this way, scanners, keyboards, printers, as well as infrared, communication, test and measurement equipment and the like, can be used to enhance user efficiency in retrieving and transmitting data.

Also mounted on connector bulkhead 44 is an antenna connector 52 that provides interconnection of the radio transceiver disposed within processing module 24 and an antenna (described below) that is preferably located on headset 20. Although not illustrated in FIGURES 5 and 6, a second antenna connector, which is directly coupled to a second antenna, may be mounted on connector bulkhead 44. This dual-antenna system may provide more robust wireless communication to and from the remote data source 14.

Battery module 26 is formed of an upper housing 54 and a lower housing 56 (see FIGURES 5, 7, 8 and 9). As illustrated most clearly in FIGURE 7, these upper and lower housings are held firmly together through the use of fasteners 57 in the same manner as are top and bottom enclosures of processing module 24. As is shown in FIGURE 9, lower housing 56 includes an outwardly extending platform 58. An angled protrusion 60 is integral with the upper surface of platform 58. As described below, the angled protrusion functions to provide guidance and retention of removable battery pack 29. A docking base 62 is also included in the upper surface of platform 58. Docking base 62 has an inclined docking surface 64 (see FIGURE 8), that includes a recessed set of battery contacts 66.

Referring to FIGURE 8, it can be seen that removable battery pack 29 includes an external housing 68, and that the underside of battery pack 29 has an inclined docking surface 70 and a set of battery contact fingers 72 configured to mate with docking surface 64 and battery contacts 66, respectively. It will be appreciated that, alternatively, the battery contacts could be recessed into docking surface 70 and the battery contact fingers could be disposed on docking surface 64. Battery pack 29 includes a cavity 74 sized to snugly receive protrusion 60.

The engagement between cavity 74 and protrusion 60 helps guide the battery pack 29 properly into place on battery module 26. Battery pack 29 also includes an outwardly extending lip 76 that, once the battery pack is fully in place on battery module 26, is engaged and trapped by the lower surface of a release catch 78 disposed on the battery module. A release button 80, coupled to release catch 78, is mounted in an easily accessible location on the upper surface of the upper housing 54 of battery module 26.

Angled protrusion 60 fits snugly within cavity 74, and release catch 78 entraps lip 76, to keep the removable battery pack 29 firmly in place. To remove the battery pack, release button 80 is depressed. This action disengages release catch 78 from the lip 76 of battery pack 29, thereby allowing the battery pack's removal. The simplicity of this design allows the user to remove and replace battery packs without looking, thereby minimizing distractions from the work at hand.

One or more battery cells (not shown), which are connected to battery contact fingers 72, are disposed within the external housing 68 of battery pack 29. Due to their high storage capacity, use of multiple lithium ion battery cells is preferred.

Although not shown in the figures, a circuit assembly is also disposed within battery pack 29. This circuit assembly includes circuitry for monitoring battery charge and discharge rates and circuitry for monitoring the status (i.e., the charge level) of the battery cells. It also provides safe charge and discharge operation.

Referring to FIGURES 8 and 9, flexible connective member 28 is captured on one end between top enclosure 30 and bottom enclosure 32 of the processing module 24, and captured on the other end between upper housing 54 and lower housing 56 of the battery module 26. Battery cabling (not shown), that extends through connective member 28, connects battery contacts 66 to the circuit assembly housed within processing module 24. Flexible connective member 28 is formed of an elastomeric material. As shown in phantom in FIGURE 6, this allows processing module 24 and battery module 26 to flex relative to each other, thereby allowing the computer assembly 16 to closely conform to the user's body. Referring to FIGURE 5, it will be appreciated that computer assembly 16 is essentially symmetrical about a longitudinal centerline extending along its greatest dimension. Because of this symmetry, the computer assembly can be worn and operated on either side of the user's body. Controller 18, which is used in the display and voice version of the wearable network computer 12, is illustrated in FIGURES 10, 11 and 12. The controller has a top case 82 and a bottom case 84 defining its outer dimensions. Referring to FIGURE 12, fasteners (not shown) extend through bosses 86 formed in bottom case 84 to engage internally disposed receptacles (not shown) in top case 82. Though not illustrated, bottom case 84 also has an integrated gasket formed in its perimeter of engaged contact with top case 82 to provide a uniform seal between the cases.

The cases of controller 18 may be formed of any lightweight durable material. However, top case 82 is preferably made of hard plastic, whereas bottom case 84 is preferably made of hard plastic with an elastomeric outer shell. This provides a better gripping surface and provides better protection against breakage.

A display window 88 is disposed in the upper surface of top case 82 (see FIGURE 10), giving a protected transparent view of an underlying display assembly. The display assembly provides a plurality of annunciators that, when activated, inform the user of conditions such as: power status, radio status (i.e., signal strength), speech status, battery charge conditions and system error/malfunction notification.

Referring to FIGURES 10 and 11, an oval-shaped cursor control surface 90, positioned atop a raised housing 92, is also formed in the upper surface of top case 82. Cursor control surface 90 is connected to a multi-dimensional electronic control device (not shown) located within controller 18. Preferably, the cursor control surface 90 is made of a pliant elastomeric material.

A trapezoid-shaped mode button 94 is formed in the inclined surface of raised housing 92, at a location adjacent display window 88. Depressing mode button 94 alternately changes the wearable network computer 12 between a one-dimensional operational mode and a two-dimensional operational mode. In the one-dimensional mode, the user moves through data appearing on the display window of the headset (described below) in a sequential fashion by manipulating cursor control surface 90. In the two-dimensional mode, the user can point a displayed cursor to a specific location in the viewed data through similar manipulation.

A circular button 96 is formed in the upper surface of top case 82, at a location on the opposite side of cursor control surface 90 from display window 88. -9-

This button is employed to enable and disable speech processing by the wearable network computer 12. A microphone symbol 98 is located on the upper surface of button 96. A pair of volume control buttons 100 are also disposed in the upper surface of top case 82, at a location between display window 88 and mode button 94. Along an angularly extending forward face 102 of bottom case 84, a pair of select buttons 104 are disposed. These buttons function in the same manner as the select and option buttons on a conventional mouse. This ergonomic design and configuration of controller 18 allows a user to actuate any of the buttons located along the upper surface of top case 82 with the thumb, and actuate select buttons 104 with the fingers, while holding the controller in one hand or while the controller is holstered within a harness (described below).

Extending from the end of bottom case 84 distal from select buttons 104 is a cable that is connected to the internally disposed components of controller 18. While not illustrated, these components include a circuit assembly and a display assembly. The opposite end of the cable connects to I/O connector receptacle 46 on processing module 24 (see FIGURE 5). A strain relief 106 is provided at the junction of the cable and bottom case 84 to maintain the viability of the connection.

Referring to FIGURE 10, it will be appreciated that the controller 18 is essentially symmetrical about a longitudinal centerline extending along its greatest dimension. This symmetry allows the controller to be worn and operated on either side of the user's body, thereby accommodating both right handed and left handed users. It will be further appreciated that the controller has much broader application than strictly use in the wearable network computer system 12 of the present invention. For example, the controller could be used in the place of a conventional mouse in a wide variety of computer systems.

Controller 18', which is used in the voice-only version of wearable network computer 12, is illustrated in FIGURE 13. Except for the differences described immediately below, controller 18' has the same design and configuration as the controller 18 used in the display and voice version of the wearable network computer 12 (described above).

Because there is no need for cursor control in the voice-only system, controller 18' has no select buttons along the forward face 102 of its bottom case 84. Rather, controller 18' has two solid finger rests 108. This allows the same fabrication mold to be utilized for both controllers. -10-

While controller 18' has similar buttons disposed along the upper surface of its top case 82 as does controller 18, these buttons serve different functions. For example, in controller 18', the oval-shaped button disposed atop raised housing 92 serves as a speech button 110 that controls all voice-driven software and associated function. A corresponding microphone symbol 112 is located on the upper surface of speech button 110. Controller 18' also differs in that the trapezoid-shaped button serves as a first auxiliary function button 114, and in that the circular button serves as a second auxiliary function button 116. Software programming may be employed to utilize these auxiliary function buttons in a wide variety of ways. In the voice-only version of wearable network computer 12 utilizing controller 18', volume is controlled through the use of voice recognition software. Thus, controller 18' of FIGURE 13 does not include volume control buttons.

Though not illustrated, controller 18' similarly has an internally disposed circuit assembly and display assembly. However, unlike controller 18, it contains no internally disposed multi-dimensional electronic control device.

Referring to FIGURES 14 and 15, headset 20 has a headset frame 118, a headpad assembly 120, an ear cup assembly 121 and a removable electronics module 122. Headset frame 118 has a central portion 124 and two opposing adjustable rigid straps 126. Straps 126 are slideably mounted within the central portion 124 of headset frame 118, to allow adjustment for a wide variety of users. The central portion 124 of headset frame 118 is preferably padded to provide comfort to the user.

Headpad assembly 120 is attached to one adjustable strap 126 in a manner that allows pivotal and slight rotational movement. This method of attachment provides additional adjustment and user comfort. Headpad assembly 120 has an inwardly disposed contact surface 128 that rests against the user's head. Preferably, contact surface 128 is formed of a soft, comfortable material such as vinyl covered foam, ethyl vinyl acetate or neoprene.

Referring to FIGURE 15, ear cup assembly 121 has a soft, comfortable ear cup pad 130 attached to a rigid ear cup shell 132, which is itself attached to a yoke 133. Yoke 133 is attached to the other adjustable rigid strap 126 of headset frame 118 in a manner identical to that of headpad assembly 120. Preferably, ear cup pad 130 is formed of vinyl covered foam.

As shown most clearly in FIGURE 15, a pocket is formed in the outwardly disposed surface of ear cup shell 132 and is configured to receive electronics -11-

module 122. A plurality of holes 134 are formed in an inner surface 136 of the pocket to allow passage of sound. Two opposing snap receptacles 138 are disposed about the perimeter of the pocket formed in ear cup shell 132, the receptacles being configured to receive corresponding snaps (described below) of the electronics module 122.

Referring to FIGURES 15 and 16, electronics module 122 has a hemisphere- shaped central housing 140 from which an armature 142 outwardly extends, together forming a turret-shaped base to the electronics module. Two snaps 144 project out from an inwardly disposed flat surface 146 of central housing 140 (see FIGURE 16). A plurality of holes 148 are formed in the central region of flat surface 146 to allow passage of sound. Snap release buttons 150 are formed in the domed portion of central housing 140 at locations immediately adjacent snaps 144. Simultaneous actuation of snap release buttons 150 retracts snaps 144 from the snap receptacles 138 of ear cup shell 132, thereby releasing the entire electronics module 122 (see FIGURE 15).

Though not illustrated, central housing 140 has contained within: a speaker, a circuit assembly and associated cable routing, and all mechanics related to snaps 144 and snap release buttons 150.

Electronics module 122 also includes a display boom 152 rotatably mounted to the armature 142 of central housing 140 (see FIGURE 16). A display housing 154, having a display window 156, is rotatably mounted to the distal end of display boom 152. This rotatable mounting allows movement of display boom 152 and display housing 154 to optimize display alignment for a variety of users.

Display housing 154 includes a method of displaying virtual images that are conveyed by the wearable network computer 12 and are viewable through display window 156. Preferably, display housing 154 contains a miniature display, optics and electronics that provide the user with a view equivalent to a normal monitor at a reasonable eye relief.

A microphone boom 158 is rigidly mounted at one end to the armature 142 of central housing 140. A microphone 160 is disposed at the opposite end of microphone boom 158. The microphone boom is preferably formed of a flexible "gooseneck" material to allow selective positioning of the microphone 160. Of course, it will be appreciated that the microphone boom could be made of a more rigid material and could be rotatably mounted to the armature 142 to provide selective positioning capabilities. -12-

An RF antenna 162 is pivotably attached to the domed portion of central housing 140 at a location opposite armature 142 (see FIGURE 17). The elongated RF antenna 162 consists of wires running lengthwise through a somewhat rigid elastomeric shell. A vertically oriented restraint groove 164 is formed in the central housing 140 on both sides of the RF antenna's point of attachment. This restraint groove restricts rotation of the antenna to no more than one hundred eighty degrees and provides a friction fit sufficient to hold the antenna in a fixed position.

As illustrated in FIGURE 17, the headpad assembly 120 of headset 20 may be replaced with a conventional ear piece 166 (having an associated yoke), which may be deemed more advantageous in noisy working environments. It will also be appreciated that conventional ear piece 166 could be modified to include a speaker, thereby providing audio to both ears. In such an arrangement, the associated wiring can be routed to electronics module 122 through the headset frame 118.

The reversible design of headset 20 of the present invention allows the electronics module 122 to be worn on either side of the user's head. The process of converting headset 20 from one configuration (left) to the other (right) is illustrated in FIGURES 18, 19 and 20. First, as shown in FIGURE 18, electronics module 122 is released from ear cup assembly 121 through actuation of snap release buttons 150. Next, with respect to the headset orientation shown in FIGURE 19, electronics module 122 is rotated one hundred eighty degrees in a counterclockwise direction. The electronics module is then reattached to ear cup assembly 121 through the use of snaps 144. Next, as suggested by the directional arrows in FIGURE 20, RF antenna 162 is rotated one hundred eighty degrees in a clockwise direction so that the antenna is upwardly oriented. Lastly, as the directional arrows also indicate, microphone boom 158 and display housing 154 are swung into position. As a result of these manipulations, headset 20 has been properly reconfigured on the opposite side (i.e., the right side) of the user's head.

Provision is made in the graphics control processing, provided by the circuit assembly internally disposed within processing module 24, to rotate the virtual image of display window 156 one hundred eighty degrees to guarantee the display is "right reading" for all users.

The illustrated removable design of electronics module 122 allows it to be removed from ear cup assembly 121 and still remain directly connected to computer assembly 16. This eliminates the need for intermediate connectors, thereby -13-

substantially reducing cost and improving the reliability of high-frequency data communications between the headset 20 and the computer assembly 16.

It will be appreciated that the removable aspect of the electronics module 122 of headset 20 will also allow a single electronics module to be used by multiple workers. This results in a reduced capital outlay to the business entity utilizing such equipment. It also allows each worker to have a personalized headset frame, thereby resolving potential headset sizing or hygiene concerns on the part of the worker. It will be further appreciated that electronics module 122 can be mounted to other appropriately configured head gear such as helmets, protective eyewear, hard hats and the like.

Headset 20 described above is configured for use in the display and voice version of the wearable network computer 12 of the present invention. However, headset 20 can be modified by removing its display boom 152 and display housing 154 to create an altered headset 20' suitable for use in the voice-only version of wearable network computer 12. Alternatively, any conventional headset having a microphone and speaker may function as headset 20'.

Harness 22 of the present invention is best appreciated by reference to FIGURES 21 and 22. The harness includes an adjustable waist belt 168 and an adjustable shoulder belt 170. Waist belt 168 includes a first adjuster 172 and a second adjuster 174 that allows the length of waist belt 168 to be altered to fit a wide range of users. Waist belt 168 also includes a latching mechanism 176 that is removably coupled to second adjuster 174.

The computer assembly 16 is carried on waist belt 168 through the use of a body pack 178. The body pack includes an inwardly disposed firm-but-flexible spine 180 that is held in place on waist belt 168 by a pair of belt loops 182. The body pack also includes an outwardly disposed soft case 184 attached to spine 180, which holds the computer assembly firmly in place against the spine. Body pack 178 may have a variety of designs (backpack style, etc.). However, any such design should provide the user access to all operative buttons and switches on the computer assembly, and should allow the battery pack 29 to be removed and replaced, while the computer assembly is in position on the user's body.

Shoulder belt 170 is pivotally attached at one end (shown in phantom in FIGURE 22) to a hinge mechanism 186, that is itself fixedly attached to spine 180 at a location within case 184. The opposite end of shoulder belt 170 terminates in a hook 188, that in turn is removably coupled to a hook receiving eye 190 in fixed -14-

attachment with spine 180. The shoulder belt also includes a third adjuster 192 that allows the length of the shoulder belt to be varied. While not illustrated, cabling runs inside shoulder belt 170 for interconnecting computer assembly 16 to the headset 20. The controller 18 is carried on waist belt 168 by an open-ended belt clip holster 194 sized to receive the controller, and hold it firmly in place. The holster may be variously configured, but should provide the user access to all controller function buttons while the controller is holstered. A cable stay 196 is preferably employed along waist belt 168 at a location between body pack 178 and holster 194 to accommodate interconnective cabling running between computer assembly 16 and controller 18.

Referring to FIGURE 23, it will be appreciated that harness 22 can be easily modified to allow the controller 18 to be worn across the user's chest, rather than around the user's waist. In this configuration, the interconnective cabling from computer assembly 16 to both controller 18 and headset 20 is run inside shoulder belt 170. This configuration also requires no cable stay.

In addition, harness 22 of the present invention is reversible in that it allows the computer assembly 16 and the controller 18 to be worn on either side of the user's body. The process of converting the harness to the opposite configuration is best understood by reference to FIGURE 22. Holster 194 is removed from waist belt 168 and repositioned on the opposite side. Also, hook 188 is disconnected from hook receiving eye 190 and reconnected to an opposing hook receiving eye (not shown) fixedly attached to the opposite side of spine 180. It will be appreciated that this reconfiguration of the harness is facilitated by the pivotal design of hinge mechanism 186, and by the symmetrical design of computer assembly 16 and controller 18.

Software is instrumental in the operation of wearable network computer 12 of the present invention. Referring to FIGURE 5, stored within the processing module 24 of computer assembly 16 are the program instructions of the following types of conventional software: speech recognition, speech synthesis (i.e., text to speech), power management/hardware control, and operating system. When power switch 36 is actuated, this software initializes operation of the computer assembly ~ which then communicates with the data source 14 via the radio link to access and retrieve any additional required programs or routines. After the retrieval process is complete, wearable network computer 12 is fully functional and operates as described above. -15-

Browser software is also housed within the processing module 24 of computer assembly 16, which provides voice-driven Internet and Intranet capability to the wearable network computer 12 of the present invention. Of course, such capability requires a web server at the data source 14. Browser software suitable for this application is described in co-pending patent application Serial No. , entitled Voice Controlled Web Browser, which is filed concurrently herewith and which is hereby incorporated by reference.

As will be appreciated from the description above, and through reference to associated drawings, the computer system 10 of the present invention will provide significant efficiencies to locally mobile and other workers — particularly in environments that require workers to operate primarily hands-free. Through the direct transfer of data between the remote data source 14 (preferably a network server) and the wearable network computer 12 carried on the worker, informational speed and accuracy are also heightened. The wearable network computer 12 of the present invention itself provides many advantages. It possesses an ergonomic, rugged, and pleasingly aesthetic design that is quite user friendly. Because no permanent data storage medium need be provided, the wearable network computer is significantly less expensive than conventional body-worn PCs — perhaps as much as fifty percent less expensive. This is a critical factor when a significant number of workers must be outfitted with such devices. The wearable network computer 12 is also approximately one third the volume and weight of conventional body-worn PCs ~ a difference not lost on the worker.

Finally, it will be appreciated that the computer assembly 16, the controller 18 and the headset 20 of the present invention have independent application outside the confines of the computer system 10 and the wearable network computer 12 disclosed above.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, interconnecting cabling running between the body-worn components of the wearable network computer, or between the wearable network computer and any attached peripherals, need not be utilized. These components could communicate in wireless fashion. -16-

Accordingly, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments illustrated and described. Rather, the true scope of the invention is to be determined by reference to the following claims.

Claims

-17-The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

1. A computer system comprising one or more wearable network computers and a remote data source, each of said one or more wearable network computers and said remote data source including a communications transceiver for establishing a wireless communication link between each of said wearable network computers and said remote data source.

2. The computer system of Claim 1, wherein each said communications transceiver is a radio frequency transceiver so that said wireless communication link is accomplished through radio frequency transmission.

3. The computer system of Claim 1, wherein said remote data source includes a network server.

4. A computer system comprising: a remote data source including means for storing information and wireless transceiver means for transmitting information stored by said remote data source and for receiving information to be stored by said remote data source; and one or more wearable network computers, each including: a) a computer assembly including wireless transceiver means for receiving information transmitted by said remote data source and for transmitting information to said remote data source, said computer assembly being programmed to process information received from said remote data source to establish messages directed to a user of one of said one or more wearable network computers; b) a controller in communicative connection with said computer assembly, said controller including means for activating said computer assembly for transmission of information to said remote data source; c) a headset in communicative connection with said computer assembly, said headset including means for supplying said messages to the user in a humanly perceivable form; and d) a harness for carrying said computer assembly and said controller on the user's body. -18-

5. The computer system of Claim 4, wherein said remote data source includes a network server.

6. The computer system of Claim 4, wherein said computer assembly transmits and receives information to and from said remote data source through radio frequency transmission.