WO2011034441A1

WO2011034441A1 - System for universal console for mobile telephones

Info

Publication number: WO2011034441A1
Application number: PCT/NO2010/000341
Authority: WO
Inventors: Per Magnussen
Original assignee: Modulprodukter As
Priority date: 2009-09-17
Filing date: 2010-09-17
Publication date: 2011-03-24

Abstract

A system for a universal console (300, 700) for use with mobile telephones comprises a universal console coupled in operation to an instrument panel of a vehicle. The system is operable, via a computer- guided connection matrix, to translate and to couple a charging plug into a mobile telephone's charging connector. The console is adapted to support data communication between one mobile telephone and an external handsfree system whilst providing also a changing current to the mobile telephone. The universal console includes a system for identifying specifically a type identification for the mobile telephone which via wireless communication provides information regarding identity and type of software which the mobile telephone uses in operation, characterized in that the console is operable to move the charging plug in the connection matrix on a plate of the console, wherein the charging plug is operable to be rotated 360° around its axis and in addition is operable to be tiltable relative to vertical and horizontal axes when in use.

Description

SYSTEM FOR UNIVERSAL CONSOLE FOR MOBILE TELEPHONES

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to systems for universal consoles for mobile telephones. Mobile telephones are also referred to in certain parts of the World as "cell phones". Moreover, the present invention also concerns methods of operating these universal consoles. Background of the invention

Numerous accidents arise on roads as a result of vehicle drivers holding their mobile telephones in their hands when they speak and being thereby distracted. When suddenly an emergency situation arises, or even merely small changes occur in traffic conditions, it is often too late for a vehicle driver to react adequately when he/she is preoccupied with their mobile telephone. A further issues which arises in practice is that drivers are distracted when they seek for their mobile telephones when the telphones ring and/or have received a text message, for example a Short Messaging Service (SMS) transmission.

Several hands-free systems are available for safer use of mobile telephones when driving vehicles. There are systems in which a mobile telephone stands in a holder, and in which the system includes a central unit, a microphone, a loudspeaker or coupling to a vehicle stereo sound apparatus and wire connections between associated component parts.

In a published Japanese patent application JP 2001-77899, and in published US patent applications nos. US2004/0087335 and US2004/0132343, there are described holders for mobile telephones, wherein it is known that these holders comprise coupling points, features for centralizing mobile telephones within their holders, recharging arrangements and so forth. None of these previously published patent applications comprise a console which is operable to recognize different types of telephone and to provide a universal solution.

A disadvantage with known systems is that most holders and their central units are only adapted for one particular type of telephone, and in each case only one model of telephone. When a user changes his/her mobile telephone, something which happens on average once a year, he/she must often change a corresponding hands-free system within their vehicle, for example within their automobile. Such change is expensive, not very practical and as a consequence the driver often decides not to install a new compatible telephone holder when exchanging mobile telephone In consequence, the new mobile telephone will often in T NO2010/000341 practice lie loose in the vehicle and when a need arises to use the telephone, the telephone is employed in a hand-held manner; there thereby arises a need for a system which makes it possible to change type or make of mobile telephone, without there being major expense and extensive reworking associated with installing a new holder for hands-free mobile telephone operation within the vehicle.

Known technologies for mobile telephone consoles in vehicles comprise universal consoles to which different types of mobile telephones can be coupled. One type of console holds its mobile telephone, and is operable in certain circumstances to provide an electrical power supply, but with several mobile telephones having their coupling connections on sides, tops or back portions of the mobile telephones, users are obliged to couple manually the charging plug to their mobile telephones which is troublesome and little practical. In the European Union (EU), efforts are being made to develop a common type of charger based upon a micro USB connector which can be used for all types of mobile telephone produced from the year 2012. Moreover, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has approved plans for a standard mobile telephone charger for all new mobile telephones. The new charger that all mobile telephone manufacturers must use will halve energy use when the charger is in its standby mode and will also at least eliminate 51 000 Tonnes of unnecessary chargers, as reported by ITU. Such changes are environmentally and resource-use beneficial.

ITU is an institution based in Geneva, Switzerland and encompasses both governments and manufacturers. Moreover, ITU aims to coordinate global telephone issues. The present invention takes its point of reference from the ITU: the ITU has set its aims to reduce unnecessary use of electronic components and thereby reduce release of environmentally damaging waste. A corresponding undertaking is a result of cooperation between governments and mobile telephone manufacturers which is aimed to develop a standardized placement of charging contacts on mobile telephones. As a consequence, it will become possible for all types of mobile telephone to be adapted for operating with a common universal console coupled to a vehicle, namely a development which will result in environmental improvement in a global context. Considerable standardization of charging connection placements on mobile telephones concerns charger connection placement at a lower edge of mobile telephones, whereat the connection can be implemented to be in a middle position on this lower edge for example.

Ιη a Norwegian patent no. 324195 belonging to the present Applicant, there is described a universal console for mobile telephones which comprises a universal holder, an arrangement for scanning a product-specific code included or affixed to the mobile telephone, a central computer unit including data pertaining to accessible types of telephone, a connection box with variable connection points, wherein the holder includes a connection matrix with connection pens which are operable to be movable into and out of the connection box, and wherein the connection pens correspond to the electrical connection points to the mobile telephone, together with a repositioning unit which is operable to move the connection box until the connections pens are operable to make contact to the mobile telephone. In an event that the connection points are on a side or top of a mobile telephone, electrical connections are required to be implemented manually by the user which is inconvenient and time consuming.

Summary of the invention

The present invention seeks to provide an improved system for universal console for mobile telephones for rendering mobile telephone use in vehicles safer.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for a universal console for use with mobile telephones, wherein the system comprises a universal console coupled in operation to an instrument panel of a vehicle; and the system is operable, via a computer- guided connection matrix, to translate and to couple a charging plug into a mobile telephone's charging connector; and the console is adapted to support data communication between one or more telephones and an external handsfree system whilst providing also a changing current to the one or more mobile telephones; and the universal console includes a system for identifying specifically a type identification for the one or more mobile telephones which via wireless communication provides information regarding identity and, type of software which the one or more mobile telephones use in operation, characterized in that the console is operable to move the charging plug in the connection matrix on a plate of the console, wherein the charging plug is operable to be rotated 360° around its axis and in addition is operable to be tiltable relative to vertical and horizontal axes when in use. The system for universal console is of advantage in that it renders it easier for users to employ the console to support their one or more mobile telephones during vehicle driving, irrespective of the maker an type of their one or more mobile telephones. By a 360° rotation, it is optionally meant a rotation of at least substantially 270°.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the universal console is permanently fixed to the instrument panel, and includes a power source, a connection to an external hands-free system, a display, a circuit board with data stored therein regarding accessible types of telephone, a microphone and a loudspeaker, wherein the identification system is operable to enable identification of make, model and software employed in operation by the one or more mobile telephones and to communicate corresponding identification data to an external unit.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console comprises one or more side supports, with the charging plug being moveable in operation within the matrix, wherein the charging plug is operable to be rotated in operation by 360° about its axis, and which is operable to be tilted relative to vertical and horizontal axes when in use.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console comprises one or more side supports to which the charging plug is permanent mounted, wherein the charging plug is operable to be rotated in operation by 360° around its axis, and which is operable to be tilted relative to vertical and horizontal axes in use, and wherein the one or more side supports are operable to move freely in a positioning system in an entire area of the console's plate. As aforementioned, by 360° it is meant substantially a complete turn, for example at least substantially 270°.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the charging plug is adapted for also providing data exchange therethrough.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console includes manual coupling of the telephone to the console independent upon make and type of the one or more mobile telephones. Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console includes software products executable on computing hardware of the console for activating a wireless mode of operation of the one or more telephones for transfer of data via BlueTooth and/or RFID protocol and/or optical protocol.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for a universal console for mobile telephones, wherein the system comprises a console coupled to an instrument panel of a vehicle; and the system is operable, via a computer-guided charging plug platform, to couple a charging plug to a charging connection of the mobile telephone; and the console is adapted to convey data communication between the one or more mobile telephones and an external hands-free system, and wherein the console is adapted to supply charging current to the one or more mobile telephones; and the console includes a system for identifying specific types of mobile of telephone which via wireless communication are operable to supply their identity and type of software product used therein, characterised in that the system via a control unit is operable to receive its information from a data program for enabling a charge connection to be made to a changing connector on an underside of the one or more mobile telephones, such that the connection is executed for mutually different forms for the one or more telephones which are to be coupled to the console. Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console is permanently mounted to the vehicle and includes a source of power, a coupling to an external hands-free system, a display for displaying information, an electric circuit board with computer memory with data defining compatible types of mobile telephones, loudspeaker and microphone, wherein an identification system of the console enables identification of specific make, model and software products associated with the one or more telephones coupled in operation to the system and to convey such information to the external handsfree system.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that a control unit which receives its information via computer program, the system is operable to translate and retract a glidable plate into or out of undersides of the one or more telephones after centring is achieved. Optionally, the system is implemented so that a control unit which receives its information from computer program, a holding unit is operable automatically to press the one or more telephones over a charging plug and thereby implement a connection between the one or more mobile telephones and the console.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that a control unit which receives its information from a computer program, the system is operable to undertake a connection of a charging plug to the one or more telephones. Optionally, the system is implemented so that a control unit which receives its information via a computer program, the system is operable at a reading to determine position information for charging connections of the one or more telephones for receiving a reference for implanting coupling to the one or more telephones. Optionally, the system is implemented so that the control unit which receives its information from a computer program, a holding unit of the console is operable to undertake a specific holding grip onto the one or more telephones' form as determined beforehand.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console comprises a charging plug platform provided with a charging plug which can be moved backwards and forwards in operation, and wherein the charging plug is rotatable by 360° around its axis and is additionally operable to be tiltable relative to horizontal and vertical axes in use.

By 360°, it is optionally meant substantially a full turn, for example at least substantially 270°.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that there is also included and charging plug in standard form, and wherein the plug is operable also to convey data via the plug.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console includes a charging plug mounted onto an associated charging plug platform, wherein the charging plug is detachable from the charging plug platform for changing the charging plug.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console is subdivided into two units comprising a cover and an housing for enabling hardware components therein to be replaced or exchanged. Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console is configurable to function solely as a charger for the one or more mobile telephones.

Optionally, the system is implemented so that the console includes software products which are operable to activate a wireless communication mode of operation of the one or more mobile telephones, for transfer of data via BlueTooth or datachip/RFID-communication.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of coupling a mobile telephone to the universal console pursuant to the first or second aspects of the invention, wherein the method includes:

(a) a user pushing an activation button of the console;

(b) the user holding the mobile telephone against or near a holder of the console;

(c) the telephone identifying itself by near-field wireless communication and/or optical communication and identifying itself and being recognized by the console which subsequently determines a position of a charging plug which is necessary for interfacing to the telephone; and

(d) the user translating and/or pressing the telephone into position on a holder of the console for rendering the console and the mobile telephone mutually operable in combination.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a software product stored on a machine readable data storage medium, wherein the computer product is executable on computing hardware for operating a system pursuant to the first or second aspects of the invention.

The present invention therefore provides an alternative solution to a problem associated with universal holders, in that the alternative solution provides a holding system for a mobile telephone included within a console, wherein the holding system is operable to adjust and centre the telephone on a sliding plate, and wherein the gliding plate is retracted into the console when an associated charging plug is in a similar position to a charging contact of the telephone, whereafter a connection occurs, such that a user of the console is able to change type and model of mobile telephone without needing to replace the console, namely without demounting the console in an event that the user exchanges his/her mobile telephone for an alternative model and type.

The present invention concerns a universal console for mobile telephones, whereby an identification system is operable to connect a charger plug to the mobile telephone by way of employing an adjustable platform for the charging plug. The system that is to recognize a specific type of mobile telephone requires that the mobile telephone is capable of identifying itself either by wireless communication, for example either optical and/or electromagnetic radio communication such as BlueTooth, or by RFID technology.

The present invention provides a system which can also be used when data transfer and charging current via a connector is standardized in a single contact, for example a mini USB connector, namely something which mobile telephones contemporarily use to provide a common connection. The charging plug can, for example, be substituted in such case with a combined plug for such purpose.

The present invention is concerned with a universal console which is constructed from several modules, such that it is feasible to upgrade both hardware and software of the console. Such a manner of construction is capable of increasing operating lifetime of the console and, by avoidance for numerous alternative type of mobile telephone holder, is susceptible to increasing a total number of potential users of the console, thereby reducing waste associated with discarded contemporary mobile telephone holders.

The present invention provides an alternative solution to the problem of providing an fully automatic universal console which can be used with different types of mobile telephone, for example with contemporary and future models of mobile telephone. The fully automatic universal console is operable to connect up to a mobile telephone in an entirely automatic manner. The present invention provides a universal console utilizing a new type of holder which automates side and top coupling of the charging plug, such that it is possible to exchange mobile telephone without needing to replace the universal console, for example by demounting the console from a dashboard of a vehicle.

The present invention concerns a system which makes it possible to couple mutually different types of mobile telephone to one universal type of console in association with a dashboard of a vehicle. A vehicle can include one or more of: an automobile, a car, a ship, a boat, an aircraft, a helicopter, a hydrofoil, a motorcycle, a truck, a bus and where a driver thereof has an active need to couple his/her telephone to an external screen or similar.

Description of the diagrams

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein: FIG. 1 is an illustration of a console with a corresponding holding system for a mobile telephone and an adjustable charging plug;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of the console of FIG. 1 with a small mobile telephone coupled thereto;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a mobile telephone which is in a lying state, wherein a charging connection is positioned under and midway between extremities of the mobile telephone;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a small mobile telephone;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a mobile telephone in readiness for installation into the console of FIG. 1 , wherein side supports of the console are in their outermost deployment positions;

FIG. 6 is an illustration associated with FIG. 5, wherein the mobile telephone has just been placed into the console;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of the console associated with FIG. 1 , wherein the mobile telephone is in an upright position and is supported from a stabilizing plate;

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a mobile telephone pressed into position into the console of

FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 9 is an example of a large telephone, for example an Iphone ("Iphone" is a trade mark of Apple Corp., USA);

FIG. 10 is an example of the mobile telephone of FIG. 9 installed into the holder of the console of FIG. 1 , wherein an associated charging plug is adapted in a similar manner to FIG. 6;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a mobile telephone which has been adjusted and centralized within the console of FIG. ;

FIG. 12 is an illustration associated with FIG. 11 , wherein the mobile telephone is in place in the holder;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a sideways-disposed console, wherein a sliding plate and a unit adapted for adjusting a charging plug and in addition a rotatable mounting unit are shown;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a console in cross-section and viewed from its side;

FIG. 15 is an illustration associated with FIG. 1 wherein the sliding plate is susceptible to being pushed into and out of the console;

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a roller mechanism for the sliding plate, wherein the console is viewed from above and wherein the sliding plate is in position for receiving the mobile telephone;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a platform to which the charging plug is attached; FIG. 18 is an illustration of the console and a manner in which the charging plug platform is operable to move;

FIG. 19 is an illustration associated with FIG. 18, wherein the charging plug platform is in its upper adjustment position;

FIG. 20 is an illustration of a unit for adjusting a charging plug disposed on a platform, wherein the charging plug is operable to be turned about its own axis and in addition can be angled in relation to a vertical axis and a horizontal axis; moreover, there is also illustrated two reader units which can be implemented as photocells; furthermore, there is also illustrated that the charging plug can be moved sideways and into and out of the console;

FIG. 21 is an illustration of the console of FIG. 1 devoid of a mobile telephone, wherein the holding unit is viewable pushed into a lower disposition within the console;

FIG. 22 is an illustration of the console, wherein the charging plug is disposed in a lower position;

FIG. 23 is an illustration associated with FIG. 21 , wherein the mobile telephone is coupled to its charging plug;

FIG. 24 is an illustration of the holder unit, wherein side supports are hinged and can be tilted to right and left, and can be turned about their own axes; the side supports are divided into two or more portions and are mutually independently adjustable;

FIG. 25 is an illustration of an oval-shaped mobile telephone which is coupled to the console of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 26 is an illustration of a mobile telephone which has been swung into position into the console;

FIG. 27 is an illustration of a housing to the console, wherein an electronic circuit board is to be seen, wherein the circuit board includes contacts for subsequent mounting of a control chip (integrated circuit) amongst others; FIG. 28 is a cover for the console of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 29 is an illustration of a console for a vehicle, wherein the console is shown from a front view and utilizes moveable side supports and top supports, the view being devoid of an installed mobile telephone;

FIG. 30 is an illustration of the console of FIG. 29 with a small mobile telephone coupled thereto;

FIG. 31 is an illustration of the console of FIG. 29 with a large mobile telephone coupled thereto; FIG. 32 is an illustration of the console of FIG. 29 viewed from a side and in a tilted disposition;

FIG. 33 is an illustration of a bottom support and a side support which is further equipped with a computer-controlled connection matrix therein, for example, a micro USB plug is capable of being freely moved; the plug is also susceptible to being pushed into a corresponding connection of the telephone; the plug is operable to be turned through substantially 360° , for example at least 270°, about its own axis and is also capable of being tilted In relation to horizontal and vertical axes; the supports and associated clamps are susceptible to being moved via a moving unit;

FIG. 34 is an illustration of the console of FIG. 29, wherein the computer-controlled connection matrix has an extent over an entire back plate with, for example, a micro USB plug which is moveable freely about the extent of the back plate;

FIG. 35 is an illustration of the console of FIG. 29, wherein it is shown that supports can be moved in sideways and longitudinal directions; in addition, the supports are operable to be moved about their own centres by up to 45° and are also susceptible to being tilted in relation to horizontal and vertical axes as well as being translatable to accommodate different thicknesses of mobile telephone;

FIG. 36 is an illustration of a small mobile telephone and the same telephone in sideways view wherein there is seen a coupling connection for charging current;

FIG. 37 is an illustration of an alternative console, wherein side and top supports include a micro USB plug integrally therein; the supports are short and are operable to be moved in a computer controlled connection matrix;

FIG. 38 is an illustration of the computer controlled connection matrix of FIG. 37 which covers an entire back plate of the console; the connection matrix controls the short supports and is also operable to assist, for example, a micro USB plug in a similar manner to FIG. 34;

FIG. 39 is an illustration of a short support which includes, for example, a micro USB plug which is operable to be moved in a similar manner to FIG. 33, wherein the short supports are operable to be moved in a similar manner to bottom, side and upper supports in FIG. 35;

and wherein another example embodiment of the present invention concerns components as illustrated as described in the foregoing with a further modification that a user himself/herself executes a connection to a mobile telephone by translating and/or pushing in the charging plug into their mobile telephone; a corresponding method employed is that the user first inputs the type of telephone to the console by holding the telephone, for example 5 cm from the console; the telephone will thereby be recognized by the console, and the console will then compute suitable placement of the charging plug and translate it to a suitable position for adapting the console to the mobile telephone; the user is then able to install their mobile telephone in a holder of the console and thereby push the telephone into connection with the plug; thereafter, supports will then be adjusted together with the telephone in the centre of the holder, thereby providing a connected telephone with mechanical support; this embodiment will be described with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

FIG. 40 is an illustration of the console whose supports are disposed in an outer position and are ready to receive a mobile telephone; the user holds, for example, the mobile telephone approximately 5 cm from the holder and the console is thereby operable to compute the position of the telephone;

FIG. 41 is an illustration of the console which is operable to compute a position of its connection plug and to provide a "ready" signal, for example via text in a display or by sound/voice, to indicate that the mobile telephone can then be pushed into its connection points;

FIG. 42 is an illustration of the telephone installed in position or being adjusted to centre it within a holder of the console of FIG. 40; and

FIG. 43 is an illustration of the telephone correctly in position of the holder with a confirmation message provided.

In the accompanying diagrams, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non- underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.

Description of embodiments of the invention

With reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 28, features in these diagrams have definitions as provided in Table 1.

Table 1 : definition of features for FIG 1. to FIG. 28

Reference Definition

10 An activation button

20 A charging contact

30 A charging plug

40 A adjustment plate which is operable so that a mobile telephone is able to glide onto during adjustment and centring 50 A side support

60 An adjustment unit for mounting ends of a console, so that the console can be turned in several directions and angles

70 A unit for adjusting the charging plug 30

80 A computer unit

90 A computer cable to an external handsfree system or computer unit

100 A power cable

110 An identification reader for wireless transfer of data

120 A reader unit, photocell

130 A hinge point for a side support

140 A unit for displacement and retraction for a sliding plate

150 A sliding plate for outer adjustment

160 An upper portion of a side support

170 A lower portion of a side support

180 A charging plug platform

190 A retaining unit

200 A cover

210 A housing unit

220 An electronic printed circuit board with connection for subsequent mounting of a control chip (integrated circuit) amongst others

230 A hinge unit

Pos. 1 A position 1 wherein the side supports are in an exit position

Pos. 2 A position 2 wherein the side supports are a position for connected a mobile telephone

Pos. 3 A position 3 wherein the charging plug is in an upper position

Pos. 4 A position 4 wherein the charging plug is in an exit position under a sliding plate

Pos. 5 A position 5 wherein the charging plug is in its lower position

Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, there is shown a universal console 300 in front view, wherein the console 300 is adapted to be mounted into an instrument panel or onto a dashboard of a vehicle. In FIG. 3, there is shown a mobile telephone 310 in a lying position, wherein there is provided a standardized charging connection positioned in an underside and midway between extreme points of the telephone 310. By pressing on the activation button 10 on the console 300, the retaining unit 100 is operable to be pushed into an outer position for enabling the telephone 310 to be inserted into the console 300. On account of the console 300 being disposed an oblique angle, the telephone 310 will remaining lying when inserted into the console 300. Now, the telephone 310 is operable to send its identity via a wireless system to the identification reader 110 in the console 300. A specific identity of the telephone 310 is conveyed further to the computer unit 80, wherein a software product executing upon the computer unit 80 receives the identity of the telephone 310, and wherein the software product is provided with specific identity data for most types of mobile telephones. Although components, hardware and software components are already contemporarily available, the software products are distinguished in that they are specially adapted for use in connection with the universal console 300. System software products executing on the computer unit 80 are operable to send a message indicative of a size of the telephone 310 and a position of he charging connection of the computer-controlled charging plug platform 180. The telephone 310 which is mounted on the sliding plate 40 is next centred and then its position is identified; the telephone 310 is then automatically coupled to the console 300. When the telephone 310 is to be removed from its holder of the console 300, the user presses the activation button 10 and mechanical supports for the telephone 310 are rendered free. Example embodiments of the console 300 are provided with a display for the computer unit 80, user buttons, menu selection buttons, a microphone and a loudspeaker. The console 300 is adapted to process sound information from and to at least a microphone and a loudspeaker. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the console 300 can be integrated into a vehicle, such that a display of the vehicle or an alternative stereo system of the vehicle is also employed for use with the console 300. According to another embodiment of the invention, the console 300 is not integrated into a vehicle, but is free standing from vehicle electronic units and provided with its own power supply, for example via batteries. The console 300 can optionally also be partly integrated, for example by having access to power supply from the vehicle, but coupled up to other electronic units of the vehicle.

Referring next to FIG. 5 to FIG. 8, there is provided in FIG. 5 an illustration of the console 300 which has just been activated via its activation button 10. Moreover, the telephone 310 is illustrated placed in the console 300 for being adjusted. In FIG. 7, the telephone 310 is shown in position. In FIG. 8, the holding unit 190 has now pushed down the telephone 310 for implementing a connection between the console 300 and the telephone 310. Referring next to FIG. 9 to FIG. 12, there is illustrated in FIG. 9 a telephone 320 which has a large format, for example an aforementioned Iphone. Moreover, in FIG. 10, FIG. and FIG. 12, the telephone 320 is illustrated being adjusted and connected in a similar manner as employed for the smaller telephone 310. Referring next to FIG. 13 to FIG. 16, there is illustrated the universal console 300 from a side, wherein the side supports 50 and further the sliding plane 150, the unit 70 for adjusting the charging plug and the adjustment unit 60 for connecting the console 300. In FIG. 14, there is shown a side cross-section of the console 300. The computer unit for executing software products 80 and the identification reader 110 for wireless transfer of identity information, a power cable 100 and a computer cable 90. In FIG. 15, there is shown the console 300 wherein the sliding plate 150 is placed. In FIG. 16, there is shown a first unit 140 for translating and retracting mechanism for the sliding plate 150, wherein the first unit 2010/000341

140 is able, for example, to function as a rolling lid with, for example, plastic louvers which can be stiffened as the sliding plate 150 is rolled out. The console 300 can alternatively be implemented such that a stiff plate is translated out and is then retracted into the console 300. Thereafter, the sliding plate 150 is shown above in association with the console 300.

In FIG. 17 to FIG. 20, there is shown the charging plug platform 180 which is a computer.controlled unit for regulating components and in this association the charging plug 30. In FIG. 18, there is shown the console 300, therein the charging plug platform 180 is positioned and that the platform 180 is operably moved up and down and also sideways within the console 300. The charging plug 30 operably stands in a normal position and just under the sliding plate 150. The charging plug platform 180 is operably capable of travelling up and down in different positions on account of respecting that the telephone 320 can have a bowed underside. The charging plug platform 180 is moved steplssly and is controlled by a control unit which receives information from the computer unit 80. In FIG. 19, the console 300 is shown, wherein the charging plug 30 is in its upper position (pos. 3) whereat the plug 30 is pushed beyond a point where the sliding plate 150 is to be found. In FIG. 20, there is shown the unit 70 for adjusting the charging plug 30, wherein the charging plug 30 is operable via the platform 80 to be turned about its own axis and angles in relation to vertical and horizontal axes. Moreover, there are shown the reading unit 120, for example photocells or scanners which have a function to sense the position of the specific utilized telephone 320 when the sliding plate 150 is retracted into the console 300. The sensed position is used as a reference position for the console 300 for implementing connection. Furthermore, the charging plug 30 is shown as being operable moveable forward and backwards and sideways on the platform 180.

Referring to FIG. 21 to 24, there is shown the console 300, wherein the holding unit 190 is positioned in its lower position (pos. 2) as a result of connecting the aforementioned example telephone 310; in this situation, the charging plug stands in position (pos. 4) which is just under the sliding plate 150. On account of the holding unit 190 standing in position (pos. 1 ), the connection can alternatively be achieved by the charging plug 30 being pushed up into position (pos. 3). In FIG. 22, the charging plug platform 180 is shown in its lower position (pos. 5). Moreover, in FIG. 23, the mobile telephone 310 is shown coupled to the charging plug 30 which stands in position (pos. 4); the holding unit 190 stands in its Ipwer position (pos. 2). Furthermore, in FIG. 24, there is illustrated the holding unit 190, wherein both side supports 50 are hinged at points 130 are shown. The side supports 150 have thereby an upper and lower part 160, 170. The hinge points 130 of the parts 160, 170 can be adjusted both in right and left directions, and in addition they can be turned about their own axes on account of theem being operable to be formed to match a specific type of telephone in respect of outer form and side depressible buttons. The side supports 50 are also hinged 230 for enabling them to be formed around telephones having, for example, oval forms and concave forms.

In FIG. 25 to FIG. 28, there is shown the console 300 in which an oval telephone 330 is centred and coupled to the charging plug 30. Moreover, in FIG. 26, there is shown a telephone 340 which has been swung into position into the console 300 and coupled. FIG. 27 is an illustration of the housing unit 210 for the console 300, wherein the electronic circuit board 220 with connections for subsequent mounting of control chips (integrated circuits) amongst others is shown. In FIG. 28, there is shown a lid cover for the console 300.

The console 300 utilizes software products executing on computing hardware for rendering the console 300 operational. Thus, the console 300 includes software products which build upon possibilities within each mobile telephone and its associated software for determining how data and sound is to be transferred to an external unit. Moreover, the console 300 includes a system which is operable to switch on and switch off the utilized telephone's data transfer manner of operation, for example via BlueTooth wireless communication. In the software products, all necessary information is included regarding different types of mobile telephone which could be potentially by used with the console 300, and software which could be utilized on such mobile telephones. Moreover, the system includes software products for use when identifying the mobile telephones to be used with the console 300. The system is based upon information regarding the utilized mobile telephone's information being included in the software products for execution within the console 300.

The software products utilized by the console 300 are also operable when executed to transfer necessary software products to the external data unit, such that it is capable of coupling itself to the mobile telephone being utilized. Moreover, the software products when executed are also beneficially operable to manage wireless transfer of type specifications and alternative identification methods for the mobile telephone being utilized with the console 300. The wireless transfer of information can occur via, for example, us of RFID technology, computer chip technology, or BlueTooth technology.

The console 300 beneficially employs an identity (ID) reader which, for example, is a radio identification (RFID) reader, which is operable to read RFID ships or cards, for example as typically employed for tracking, passports, ticketing, pet animal identification and similar. The identity reader can alternative be a microchip reader, for example in a manner of a credit card reader employed in banks as a replacement for magnetic strip reading. Yet alternative types of identification technology can be optionally employed in the console 300. In an event that RFID technology is employed for use in the console 300, an RFID chip can be placed on an underside of a lip of a battery cavity of a mobile telephone or even on an outer surface of the mobile telephone. How near the RFID chip must be to the identity reader employed in the console 300 will depend upon types of RFID chip employed, wherein the RFID emits a telephone-specific code , for the manufacturer and model number, for the identity reader of the console 300. The universal console 300 advantageously is employed in combination with several systems or functions in a vehicle. An example such combined use concerns supply of updated information regarding accessible telephone makes and type which is operably installed into the console 300 via a wireless Internet data connection, via a CD player in the vehicle receiving a data CD ROM or a data memory chip reader which is operable to read additional information from a data memory chip. |n the future, it is envisaged that all mobile telephones will be equipped with a specific identification system. In Japan, it is estimated that 70% of mobile telephones are equipped with identification information; this is reported in Finansavisen (NO), dated 29 August 2009, page 33. Other example embodiments of the invention will next be described with reference to FIG. 29 to FIG. 43 wherein features are defined as provided in Table 2:

Table 2: Definition of features for FIG. 29 to FIG. 43

Reference Definition

500 A top support with connection plug

510 A side support with connection plug

520 A bottom support with connection plug

530 A activation button

540 A power supply connection

550 A computer cable to an external hands-free system or computer unit

560 An identification reader for wireless transfer of information

570 A computer unit for executing software products

580 A connection plug

590 A cross-section of a bottom support as seen from above with a computer controlled connection matrix for guiding a connection plug

600 A computer controlled connection matrix on the console for a connection plug for insertion into a back region of the mobile telephone

610 A connection for charging current

620 A short upper support with permanently installed plug for providing charging current

630 A computer controlled connection matrix covering an entire plate of the console 640 A visual display for presenting messages to a user of the console

650 A example of text for providing information regarding a method of the present invention

In FIG. 29 to FIG. 32, there is shown a front view of a universal console 700, as it would be mounted in an instrument panel or onto a dashboard of a vehicle, for example an automobile. Side supports of the console 700 are disposed in their outer positions and a user is able to install a small mobile telephone 710 or a large mobile telephone 720. When the console 700 is disposed at an oblique angle relative to vertical and horizontal axes, for example as illustrated in FIG. 32, the telephone 710, 720 will remain lying within the console 700. A user of the console 700 depresses the activation button 530 for causing the mobile telephone 710, 720 to send a corresponding identification message via a wireless communication link to the identification reader 560 in the console 700. The specific identity of the telephone 710, 720 is sent further to the computer unit for executing software products 570 wherein information regarding most types of mobile telephone is stored with their specific identity and software. Although the console 700 employs components, hardware and software which are already publicly available, software implemented as software products stored on machine readable data storage media are specially developed for controlling and operating the console 700. System software for the console 700 is operable to send information describing the size of the telephone 710, 720 and its position of its charging connector in relation to a connection matrix of a holder of the console 700. After the mobile telephone 710, 720 is placed upon the holder, the console 700 is operable to centre the telephone 710, 720 and to couple the charging plug.

Referring next to FIG. 33 to FIG. 35, there is shown, for example in FIG. 33, a cross-section of a connection matrix to the lower support 590 and the connection plug 610. Moreover, there is shown a cross-section of the connection matrix on the console plate with a charging plug 580. Furthermore, in FIG. 35, there is provided an illustration with arrows regarding directions, for example, in which side supports can be moved and adjusted. The supports are also susceptible to being moved around their centres by maximum 45° and can in addition the supports can be angle about their axes in respect of horizontal and vertical axes. The supports are also susceptible to being moved in and out in respect of a thickness of the telephone 710, 720.

In FIG. 36 to FIG. 39, there is shown the small mobile telephone 710 which is also placed on its side. The charging connection 610 has in this case its location on the side of the telephone 710. Moreover, an alternative solution 730 involves side and top supports being replaced by short supports 740 with an associated permanently mounted charging plug. These short supports are guided by the connection matrix 630 and are operable in addition to be movable around their centres and about their axes in relation to horizontal and vertical axes. Furthermore the charging plug is susceptible to being rotated by substantially a full turn, for example 360°, about its centre and rotated about its axis in relation to horizontal and vertical axes.

In an embodiment if the present invention, the console 700 is implemented to include a computer coupled to an associated visual display, to user buttons, to a menu selection button, to a microphone and to a loudspeaker. The console 700 is beneficially operable to process sound data from and to at least a microphone and a loudspeaker. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the console 700 is integrated into a vehicle, such that the console 700 utilizes a display of the vehicle or a display of a stereo audio system of the vehicle. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the console 700 is not integrated into the vehicle, but is freestanding from electronic units of the vehicle and is provided with its own source of power, for example via batteries. Optionally, the console 700 can be partially integrated into the vehicle, for example by way of being provided with power from the vehicle, but not otherwise connected up to any of the electronic units of the vehicle. Referring to FIG. 40 to 43, there is shown a manual registration of the mobile telephone 710, wherein the user himself/herself translates and presses the telephone 710 into position after the console 700 has found the position of the charging plug. A method of manual coupling of the mobile telephone 710 to the universal console 700 includes:

(a) the user pushes the activation button 530;

(b) the user holds the mobile telephone 710 against a holder of the console 700, for example in a range of 5 cm to 10 cm therefrom;

(c) the telephone 710, for example via near-field wireless communication, identifies itself and is recognized by the console 700 which then a position of the charging plug which is necessary for interfacing to the telephone 710;

(d) the user translates and/or presses the telephone 710 into position on a holder of the console 700 for rendering the console 700 and the mobile telephone 710 mutually operable in combination.

Subsequently, when the mobile telephone 710 is to be removed from the holder of the console 700, the user presses the activation button 530 which results in the supports of the console 700 being released to move freely so that the mobile telephone 710 can be removed. The console 700 includes software products which are executable upon its computing hardware, the software products being operable with software of mobile telephones to determine how data and sound are conveyed to an external unit. Moreover, the console 700 beneficially includes a system which can activate/deactivate the data transfer operation of the mobile telephone 710, for example via a BlueTooth wireless communication link. In the software products of the console 700, there is included all relevant information regarding specification and which software programs are used by the mobile telephone 710. Moreover, the software products enable the console 700 to recognize an identification of a mobile telephone when inserted into the holder of the console 700. The system is based upon information pertaining to a given telephone being recorded in software products and/or their associated data of the telephone.

It will be appreciated that features of the universal console as described in the foregoing are susceptible to being combined in various combinations when devising alternative embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the patent as defined by the accompanying claims.

Modifications to embodiments of the invention described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "consisting of, "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present invention are intended to be construed in a nonexclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural. Numerals included within parentheses in the accompanying claims are intended to assist understanding of the claims and should not be construed in any way to limit subject matter claimed by these claims.

Claims

PCT/NO2010/000341 CLAIMS

1. A system for a universal console (300) for use with mobile telephones (310, 320), wherein the system comprises a universal console coupled in operation to an instrument panel of a vehicle; and the system is operable, via a computer- guided connection matrix, to translate and to couple a charging plug into a mobile telephone's charging connector; and the console is adapted to support data communication between one or more telephones and an external hands-free system whilst providing also a changing current to the one or more mobile telephones; and the universal console includes a system for identifying specifically a type identification for the one or more mobile telephones which via wireless communication provides information regarding identity and type of software which the one or more mobile telephones use in operation, characterized in that the console is operable to move the charging plug in the connection matrix on a plate of the console, wherein the charging plug is operable to be rotated 360° around its axis and in addition is operable to be tiltable relative to vertical and horizontal axes when in use.

2. A system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the universal console is permanently fixed to the instrument panel, and includes a power source, a connection to an external hands-free system, a display, a circuit board with data stored therein regarding accessible types of telephone, a microphone and a loudspeaker, wherein the identification system is operable to enable identification of make, model and software employed in operation by the one or more mobile telephones and to communicate corresponding identification data to an external unit.

3. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the console comprises one or more side supports, with the charging plug being moveable in operation within the matrix, wherein the charging plug is operable to be rotated in operation by 360° about its axis, and which is operable to be tilted relative to vertical and horizontal axes when in use.

4. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the console comprises one or more side supports to which the charging plug is permanent mounted, wherein the charging plug is operable to be rotated in operation by 360° around its axis, and which is operable to be tilted relative to vertical and horizontal axes in use, and wherein the one or more side supports are operable to move freely in a positioning system in an entire area of the console's plate.

5. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the charging plug is adapted for also providing data exchange therethrough.

6. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the console includes manual coupling of the telephone to the console independent upon make and type of the one or more mobile telephones.

7. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the console includes software products executable on computing hardware of the console for activating a wireless mode of operation of the one or more telephones for transfer of data via BlueTooth and/or RFID protocol and/or optical protocol.

8. A system for a universal console (700) for mobile telephones (710, 720), wherein the system comprises a console coupled to an instrument panel of a vehicle; and the system is operable, via a computer-guided charging plug platform, to couple a charging plug to a charging connection of the one or more mobile telephones; and the console is adapted to convey data communication between the one or more mobile telephones and an external hands-free system, and wherein the console is adapted to supply charging current to the one or more mobile telephones; and the console includes a system for identifying specific types of mobile of telephone which via wireless communication are operable to supply their identity and type of software product used therein, characterised in that the system via a control unit is operable to receive its information from a data program for enabling a charge connection to be made to a changing connector on an underside of the one or more mobile telephones, such that the connection is executed for mutually different forms for the one or more telephones which are to be coupled to the console.

9. A system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the console is permanently mounted to the vehicle and includes a source of power, a coupling to an external hands-free system, a display for displaying information, an electric circuit board with computer memory with data defining compatible types of mobile telephones, loudspeaker and microphone, wherein an identification system of the console enables identification of specific make, model and software products associated with the one or more telephones coupled in operation to the system and to convey such information to the external handsfree system.

10. A system as claimed in claim 8 or 9, wherein, via a control unit which receives its information via computer program, the system is operable to translate and retract a glidable plate into or out of undersides of the one or more telephones after centring is achieved.

11. A system as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, via a control unit which receives its information from computer program, a holding unit is operable automatically to press the one or more telephones over a charging plug and thereby implement a connection between the one or more mobile telephones and the console.

12. A system as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 1 1 , wherein, via a control unit which receives its information from a computer program, the system is operable to undertake a connection of a charging plug to the one or more telephones.

13. A system as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, via a control unit which receives its information via a computer program, the system is operable at a reading to determine position information for charging connections of the one or more telephones for receiving a reference for implanting coupling to the one or more telephones.

14. A system as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein, via the control unit which receives its information from a computer program, a holding unit of the console is operable to undertake a specific holding grip onto the one or more telephones' form as determined beforehand. PCT/NO2010/000341

15. A system as claimed in any one of preceding claims 8 to 14, wherein the console comprises a charging plug platform provided with a charging plug which can be moved backwards and forwards in operation, and wherein the charging plug is rotatable by 360° around its axis and is additionally operable to be tiltable relative to horizontal and vertical axes in use.

16. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 8 to 15, wherein there is also included and charging plug in standard form, and wherein the plug is operable also to convey data via the plug.

17. A system as claimed in any one of preceding claims 8 to 16, wherein the console includes a charging plug mounted onto an associated charging plug platform, wherein the charging plug is detachable from the charging plug platform for changing the charging plug.

18. A system as claimed in any one or the preceding claims 8 to 17, wherein the console is subdivided into two units comprising a cover and an housing for enabling hardware components therein to be replaced or exchanged.

19. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 8 to 18, wherein the console is configurable to function solely as a charger for the one or more mobile telephones.

20. A system as claimed in any one of preceding claims 8 to 19, wherein the console includes software products which are operable to activate a wireless communication mode of operation of the one or more mobile telephones, for transfer of data via BlueTooth or datachip/RFID-communication.

21. A method of coupling a mobile telephone to the universal console of the system of claim 1 or claim 8, wherein said method includes:

(a) a user pushing an activation button of the console;

(c) the telephone identifying itself by near-field wireless communication and/or optical communication and identifying itself and being recognized by the console which subsequently determines a position of a charging plug which is necessary for interfacing to the telephone; and (d) the user translating and/or pressing the telephone into position on a holder of the console for rendering the console and the mobile telephone mutually operable in combination.

22. A software product stored on a machine readable data storage medium, wherein the computer product is executable on computing hardware for operating a system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 8.